There are few better feelings than loading up the car, setting your sat nav, creating the perfect playlist and heading off on a road trip. Whether you're chasing the Cornish coastline, exploring the Scottish Highlands or driving across Europe in search of sunshine, the journey is all part of the adventure.
Unfortunately, your car doesn't know it's on holiday.
While you're looking forward to scenic routes and service station sausage rolls, your vehicle is about to work harder than it has all year. Long motorway miles, stop-start traffic, steep hills and a boot packed with enough luggage for a month away all put extra strain on your car. That's why spending half an hour giving it a quick once-over before you leave could save you from spending the first day of your holiday waiting for a recovery truck.
Tyres: The Unsung Heroes
Your tyres probably don't get much attention—until one decides it no longer wants to be part of the journey.
Before setting off, check the tyre pressures, inspect the tread depth and look for any cuts, bulges or uneven wear. Properly inflated tyres don't just make your car safer; they also improve fuel economy, which means more money left over for ice creams, fish and chips or that extra coffee stop you definitely didn't need.
Let There Be Light
Imagine arriving at your holiday cottage after a five-hour drive only to discover you've been travelling with a brake light out the entire time. Not ideal.
Walk around the car and test every light, including your headlights, brake lights, indicators, fog lights and number plate lights. It's a simple job that takes just a couple of minutes but could save you an awkward conversation with the police—or another driver.
Fluids Matter More Than You Think
Cars are a bit like people. They don't perform at their best when they're dehydrated.
Check your engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and windscreen washer fluid before leaving. Running low on coolant while sitting in motorway traffic on one of the hottest days of the year is a memory you'll want to avoid creating.
Wipers: Small Part, Big Difference
British weather loves keeping us on our toes. One minute it's glorious sunshine, the next you're driving through a downpour so heavy you can barely see the car in front.
If your wiper blades smear rather than wipe, or make that painful squeaking noise every time they move, replace them before your trip. Your future self will thank you.
Don't Treat the Boot Like a Game of Tetris
We all know someone who believes one more suitcase will definitely fit.
While clever packing is an art form, overloading your vehicle affects braking, fuel economy and handling. Keep heavier items low down, spread the weight evenly and make sure nothing can become airborne if you have to brake suddenly. Flying suitcases are best left to airport baggage handlers.
Listen to Your Car
Has it started making a funny noise recently? Is there a warning light you've been hoping will magically disappear?
Cars rarely fix themselves. Strange knocks, squeals, vibrations or dashboard warning lights are usually your vehicle's polite way of saying, "Please sort this before we drive 300 miles."
It's much cheaper—and much less stressful—to investigate before you leave.
Pack for the Unexpected
Even well-maintained cars can have an off day, so it's worth carrying a few essentials.
A torch, jump leads, bottled water, a phone charger, first aid kit and a high-visibility vest don't take up much room but can make a huge difference if you find yourself waiting for assistance. Hopefully they'll stay tucked away in the boot, but it's always better to have them than wish you had.
Is Your Air Conditioning Ready?
There's nothing glamorous about sitting in holiday traffic with warm air blowing in your face while everyone else looks comfortably chilled.
If your air conditioning isn't as cold as it used to be, it may simply need a re-gas or a new cabin filter. Your passengers—and whoever is sitting nearest the window—will certainly appreciate it.
Check Your Breakdown Cover
Breakdown cover is a bit like an umbrella. You rarely think about it until you desperately need it.
Before setting off, make sure your policy is still active, check exactly what it covers and save the emergency number in your phone. It's a two-minute job that could save hours of hassle.
The Best Holiday Starts Before You Leave
Road trips create some of the best memories, but they're always more enjoyable when the journey goes to plan. Spending a little time checking your vehicle before you leave means you're far more likely to spend your holiday exploring new places instead of explaining to a recovery mechanic where the strange rattling noise started.
So grab the snacks, argue over whose music gets played first, and enjoy the open road. With a little preparation, your car should be just as ready for the adventure as you are.