Our Top 10 Tips for Getting Your Car Road Trip Ready

• It’s important to check that your car is ready for any road trips this summer. 
• Extreme temperatures can take their toll on your vehicle. 
• With our 10 simple checks, get road trip ready in no time. 

Summer is almost here and that means one thing... road trip season is on the horizon! You might think pre-holiday rituals only involve checking that you have your passports, tickets, and money. But if you are heading on a road trip this summer it’s important to check that your car is also fit for the road ahead. 

Read on to find out our top 10 tips to get your car road trip ready.  

1. Check your wiper blades before you set off 

As the temperature outside heats up, your wiper blades can start to suffer. This is because most wipers are made from rubber which can start to deteriorate in extreme temperatures. If you notice that your windscreen isn’t being cleaned fully, any juddering, squeaks, or smears – it could be time to replace them. 

Read our full article on why your wiper blades might need replacing this summer for more information. 

Need some help choosing the best ones for your vehicle? Read our handy article on the best wiper blades. 

2. Plan your route 

Before you set off on any road trip it’s important to plan your route in advance. This helps you find the best route, see any potential delays, and factor in rest stops. If you are travelling on a long journey, it’s important to take a break from driving every few hours to prevent tiredness. 

3. Check oil levels 

If your car’s engine doesn’t have sufficient lubrication, this can lead to a breakdown. A quick dipstick test will check your oil levels. The levels should be between the minimum and maximum markers. 

4. Make sure you have enough coolant  

In warmer temperatures, coolant is vital to prevent your engine from overheating. This is particularly important if you find yourself stuck in heavy traffic which is likely during busier summer months. 

5. Check tyre pressure and tread depth  

Carrying extra luggage, including heavy suitcases, can have an impact on your tyres. Always ensure that they are inflated to the correct pressure and meet the legal tread depth requirements. Failure to do so could lead to a £2,500 fine per tyre. 

6. Ensure all lights are working 

If your lights aren’t working correctly, other road users can’t fully see you, and you can’t fully see them. Before hitting the roads, do a quick walk around to check that all the lights are functioning correctly or ask a family member to help. 

7. Top up washer fluid  

Keeping your windscreen clear is crucial to spot any potential hazards on the road. Check your washer fluid levels before you set off and top up if they are running low. 

8. Test your brakes 

Making sure your brakes are functioning properly is something you should undertake regularly. Not only for your safety, but also for others around you. If you notice that your brakes feel spongy or soft, be sure to get them checked out by a professional immediately. 

9. Give your car a clean 

If you are going to spend a big chunk of time on the road, you don’t want to do it in a messy car. Give the interior a good clean so everybody can enjoy the journey in comfort. The sun’s rays can show up any dirt on the exterior so be sure to give the outside a thorough clean also. 

10. Pack essential items 

Whether you are travelling abroad or not will depend on the essential items you will need to carry. Regardless of where you are going, always have your driving licence to hand. 

If you are driving abroad, you will need: 

• Car insurance details 
• Travel insurance documents 
• UK sticker if you are driving within the EU. 

Other important items include a sat nav or map, a first aid kit in case of any emergencies on the road, and a torch. It’s also worth carrying some loose change for any toll roads.

Why not check out our summer accessories that might make your summer trip a little easier!