Mod the car before or after i take a road trip
 

Would the trip be more "rough" with ST coilovers and 18x9.5 wheels? Would the upgraded aesthetics of the car when taking photos be worth it?

Couldn't decide what section to ask this question in.

I'd do it afterwards. What happens if you start having issues with popping noises, something comes loose, rubbing issue, etc. I wouldn't want to take the chance of something going wrong on a road trip. Just drive it as is for the trip and then do your mod once you get back so that you can test it out for a week or so to make sure there aren't any problems.

Depends entirely on how you mod and who is modding.

If you are confident in your mechanical abilities, you'd have no issues with mods prior to a roadtrip. I have no hesitation if I were to drive my car cross-country tomorrow with it lowered and on staggered wheels because I know what condition my car is in.

If you aren't, see above response.

-alex

One more for after

Thanks guys, After it is.

After. Less wear and tear on the tires plus you don't want to be testing anything new while far from home. Then there's the theft factor. Your car will blend in more and less likely attract thieves in case you are staying overnight at hotels. Heck, I just put my stock wheels and tires back on for a 900 mile round trip so as to not wear out my tires.