Vehicle prep for long distance commuting:

Clean the battery posts in all the cars.
Top off and charge batteries. Buy new if more than 4 yrs old.
Check anti-freeze levels and strength.
Change wiper blades.
Top off washer reservoir.
Check lights and rear window defroster functional.
Put ice scrapers and deicing fluid (washer fluid in a manual spray bottle which softens frost) back in the car.
Throw the Wyoming Tuxedo(insulated coveralls) and chains in the car.
Verify the sleeping bag or blanket still in the car.
Check tire tread and pressures.
Clean inside the windows (they'll fog less)