13th March 2024

Let’s get Staycation road trip ready

Many of us will be planning a staycation for summer holidays 2024. The UK is full of great holiday destinations. There’s no battling with airport crowds or worries about your passport being current, you have the freedom to use your own car and you can pack it as you like with clothes to suit all activities and the changeable summer weather. We all know that fuel has become more expensive; but it’s less expensive than the cost of flights and possibly hire cars abroad. And don’t forget, you get to be the pilot of your road trip. You can choose the route you take, where you stop and for how long and when you want to reach your destination.

13th March 2024

Let’s get Staycation road trip ready

So, if you’re planning a holiday that captures that road trip freedom, we’ve put together a checklist of things to remember to do before you set off, to keep you and your loved ones safe and comfortable on your journey and to make sure you get to that fabulous UK destination.

Check your tyres. Make sure that the air pressure is set correctly and that you have enough tread. And don’t forget to check the spare. If you need to replace a tyre, think about buying part worn from an automotive recycler as a cheaper way of making sure your tyres are legal and safe; or as an opportunity to get more expensive tyres at a much lower price. If you visit our tyre bay at our Shedfield site we can fit and balance them for you too.
Get your brakes checked at a local garage – it’s usually a small fee but gives you confidence behind the wheel.
Make sure your brake fluid, engine oil, and screenwash are all topped up.
Check that all your lights are working properly – that means your brake, reverse, hazard, fog, indicators, side lights headlights and dipped beams.
Don’t forget the all-important mobile phone and power bank. Not all cars have USB ports and a power bank is a good back up too. If you’re using your phone as your Sat Nav it eats up your battery, so a way to charge it up will be important.
If you’re reliant on your vehicle Sat Nav, check to see how up to date it is. There’s nothing worse than coming up to a junction that isn’t shown because your Sat Nav data is out of date!
Have a map book that you keep in the vehicle for those areas of the country where the WiFi can be a bit hit and miss and your Sat Nav or phone might struggle to give you directions.
Sort out Breadown cover so you have peace of mind for the trip if anything goes wrong with your vehicle.
Have your insurance documents and driving license on you. If you have a need to refer to your policy cover or to register a claim, you’ll have all the details to hand.
Plan your route with regular brakes so you are able to stay alert and safe behind the wheel. Remember, it’s your holiday so there’s no rush.
Snacks, snacks, snacks. Did we mention snacks? Tasty snacks and plenty of drinks will keep you fuelled, fresh and hydrated along the way.
Entertainment for small people travelling with you is a must. Aside from some screen time if they’re lucky enough to have access to screens, games of eye spy and first to spot a car colour, make and model are all good distractions. And of course a sing-along!