Getting ready for a summer road trip this summer? Whether you’re heading out on a family holiday or you’ve got big plans to visit a festival, keeping yourself and your passengers safe is paramount.
From booking a service to carrying out those final checks before setting off, here’s how to get your car ready for a safe, successful and enjoyable road trip this summertime.
1. Check Your Car’s Condition
Firstly, it’s time to make sure that everything is in good working order. It’s recommended to book a service around twice a year, so why not time it to be close to your busy summer of driving?
In the meantime, there are a few basic checks that you can carry out at home. These include:
- Engine oil – this fluid keeps the moving mechanical parts in your engine lubricated. Without it, your engine will seize up and your car could break down. Check oil levels with the dipstick under your bonnet, only when the engine is cool.
- Coolant – also known as antifreeze, this fluid will help your engine to run at the correct temperature during summer. Keep it topped up and carry some with you if you’re going on a longer trip.
- Tyres – make sure to fit your car with a decent set of summer tyres, ensuring tread depth for good grip on the roads. They should also be inflated to the pressure recommended by the manufacturer.
2. Pack an Emergency Kit
Prepare for the unexpected by keeping an emergency kit in your car. This will include basic provisions for you and your passengers, ensuring that you can stay comfortable and safe if you either break down or get stuck in traffic.
Here are our suggestions for a few basic items to include:
- First-aid kit with plasters, bandages, and pain relief
- Torch with rechargeable batteries
- Jump leads in case of a flat battery
- A spare tyre for quick repairs after a puncture
If you run into trouble during your trip, having at least a few of those items with you could prove invaluable.
3. Check Your Insurance
You should also make sure that your insurance covers everything that you might encounter during your summer adventures.
If you’re looking for total peace of mind, comprehensive car insurance covers third-party damage along with damage to your own vehicle.
Heading across the channel? If you’re planning to drive abroad, it’s worth checking whether your insurance covers driving in Europe. That way, you’ll be covered whether you break down or have an accident away from home.
4. Plan Your Route
Finally, it’s worth knowing where you’re going and where you’ll stop for a rest. If you’re driving all day, try to take a break around once every two hours to help you concentrate on the road and refuel.
Choose places to eat along the way, not forgetting to hydrate with water and perhaps a coffee too.
Don’t forget to download offline maps or use navigation apps to keep on the route in case you lose signal.
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