When making plans for a summertime road trip, it is usually best to be prepared for all weathers and – at busy times – some delays. Therefore, always have snacks, drinks and waterproofs available, especially if you have children in the car with you.
But what else should you consider?
– Fill up with screen wash. In the summer, you may need to clear your windscreen regularly. Although bugs and pollen can make your screen hard to see out of, if you encounter a shower, then the dirt thrown up from a previously dry and dusty road can make visibility dangerously poor. Keep your screen wash ready to go.
– Plan your journey. When enjoying a road trip, there is no need to take the most direct route or only stick to the motorways. Part of the adventure is about getting off the beaten track a little and exploring the road less travelled. If you have a particular destination in mind, then why not set the sat nav to take in a few sights along the way?
– Check your tyre pressure. Long journeys need properly inflated tyres to keep you safe, especially when driving over hot tarmac when traction needs to be optimised. Have your tyres checked by an expert if you notice any cracks or bulges in them and replace any that are heading toward the end of the life on the road. If you require more information or want to browse through tyres online, visit point-s.co.uk.
– Avoid the rush hour. By travelling a bit later in the morning, you can make a road trip a much more pleasant experience. Let the heavy traffic subside before you start motoring and there will be a good deal less stress for the driver and the passengers. Likewise, try to get to where you are going before the evening rush.
– Have your air con serviced. Air conditioning is an essential for summer road trips unless you are unlucky enough to coincide with a cold snap. Air con tends to require an inspection once every two years and even very good systems get less effective after this period. Some will need to be re-pressurised in order to keep you cool as the temperatures outside start to rise.
– Keep your belongings out of view. When you get out to stretch your legs, it is tempting to leave the contents of your car as they are. However, for security reasons it is always good advice to do up your windows and store bags and valuables out of sight in the boot.
