Road trip ready? How to prepare your car for summer adventures

Dodging pricey airfares (and giant airport queues), being in charge of your own schedule and not needing a degree in maths to work out your suitcase allowance: there are plenty of cost- and stress-saving advantages to a driving holiday. Plus with record temperatures predicted again this year, packing up and hitting the road might be even more appealing. But to make sure it’s a truly relaxing trip from start to finish, there’s some prep you can do before you depart. 

Whether you’re staying in the UK or setting your cap at a European tour, ALPHERA’s expert team have got your back. Here are some useful tips to help you prep for the journey ahead. 

1. Check your car will go the distance 

You’ve had it serviced. The MOT is up to date. You should be all set, right? You’re definitely in good shape to get going, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. The AA recommends key checks you can perform regularly to reduce the risk of mishaps, and could make the difference between sailing along or sitting on the hard shoulder. 

Let’s start with your tyres: tread, tyre pressure and tread depth are worth investigating before the rubber hits the road. If you’re really putting in the miles, consider if it’s worth taking a spare, and look closely at all four tyres for any small nicks, scratches or bulging that could cause problems at a later date. Next, take a good look under the bonnet: top up any fluid levels, check the oil and coolant, and make note of anything you might want your local mechanic to tune up for you.  

Lights and wipers are more important than ever to ensure you don’t get caught out. Have a look at the bulbs and replace any worn wiper blades. 

Lastly, taking your motor for a short test run before you leave is ideal, especially if it’s been sitting there for a few days. A flat battery is no way to start your adventure. And be sure to listen out for any rattles or unusual sounds that might need attention. Finally, don’t forget to fuel up (or plug in) before you go. Mapping potential refuelling or recharging spots (and their costs) en route will get you extra preparedness points. 

2. Make sure you’re fully insured 

If you’re heading abroad, it’s worth remembering that your UK provider might not accommodate the same level of cover in Europe. A quick look over your policy should confirm if this is the case and you should be able to add additional cover as needed. Many providers will let you check the details of your motor insurance online, so it shouldn’t take you long to get the answers you need. 

It’s also worth looking into additional options such as breakdown cover, accidental damage and tyre damage insurance for an extra level of protection. 

3. Don’t forget your documents 

If you’re planning on a European jaunt, make sure you check the requirements for each of the countries you’ll pass through as these can vary. Wherever you are abroad, the RAC recommends ensuring you have the following with you:

• Passport and national insurance number
• Full, valid driver’s licence
• Vehicle insurance and registration documents
• EU breakdown policy number and documents
• Travel insurance documents
• UK car sticker if you don’t have a GB number plate
• Log book – if your vehicle is financed, you should contact your motor finance company in good time to receive the required Vehicle on Hire Certificate. 

Additionally, most countries in Europe will require you to have a high-vis jacket or vest and a warning triangle, and some require you to have a first aid kit. 

Want to be extra prepared? Popping a torch in the glove compartment is a smart move, plus keeping blankets, water, sun cream and a map to hand, just in case! Full marks for adding a fire extinguisher and replacement bulbs.

Finally, don’t forget to keep your accommodation booking confirmations and contact details close in case you need them. 

4. Charge all your batteries 

It sounds obvious, but it’s easy to forget to charge your phone before a long journey or drain your battery on last-minute downloads and updates. 

A full battery is especially important if you’re relying on your phone for navigation. As well as planning your route ahead of time, it’s wise to download a Google map of the area in case you lose signal. This not only saves power, it allows you to use your sat-nav offline. 

You can also get some great and very affordable in-car chargers, which are always handy in an emergency.

Something else that can stop you in your tracks? A flat battery under the bonnet. Having a set of jump leads (or a portable lithium jump starter) in the boot is a good back-up plan. 

The other batteries you’ll want to charge are your own, in the form of quality rest and refreshment. Make sure you plan regular rest stops, pack plenty of food and water and get a good night’s sleep before you start your journey. 

5. Leave plenty of time for packing

It’s tried-and-tested advice but making a packing list a few days in advance can really help avoid those last-minute panics. You also might want to consider loading up the car the night before (just make sure nothing of value is on display and your insurance covers the contents). Trying to cram forgotten items into an overstuffed boot when you need to leave in good time to beat the holiday traffic can really raise the blood pressure. 

If you’ve done all the above, then you’re as ready as you can be. Happy trails, and don’t forget to send a postcard.

For more motoring tips and the latest industry updates, check out our news page. 

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