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A road-trip is a classic type of holiday, whether in UK or abroad. The sense of freedom when driving down a long, open road is something many holidaymakers enjoy and so this year many people may opt to make driving a part of the holiday. In order to make sure you don’t run into trouble it’s advisable that you make a few checks to ensure your car is up to the job of driving long distances.Driving long distances and for prolonged periods of time can put a lot of stress on your car’s engine, brakes, suspension plus a whole range of other mechanical parts if used excessively. It’s best to carry out at least the following check to ensure you don’t breakdown and ruin your road-trip:Check and top up your oilYou should check the level of your engine’s oil before any long trip, and especially when you see the oil can warning light. This is done by removing the dipstick and cleaning it off, then replacing the dipstick and remove it again to should get an accurate oil level reading. The oil level should be tested when the car engine is cool and when the car is on a level surface. Your oil level should be between the two notches – min and max - if below, this then you need to top it up. Before you top up, be cautious and consult your vehicles handbook for what type of oil you need.Make sure your tyres are inflated properlyIf your car’s tyres are not properly inflated then there’s a chance you could suffer a puncture or burn up more fuel than you need to. Tyres all have information on their sidewall for recommended levels but again it is worth checking your vehicles handbook as they may have recommendations for heavy loads (in case you have lots of luggage or passengers on board).Fill up with fuelWith all the sing-a-longs and sights to see on the open road it is very easy to not notice your petrol meter hovering in the red until it’s too late and your car’s coughed and spluttered to a halt. Before any long haul trip you should fill up on petrol. Have a whip round with the rest of your travelling buddies and get them to chip in! Whilst there are plenty of petrol stations on motorways you may end up travelling along a road where there isn’t a filling station for miles so be take care and don’t let the petrol get too low.Secure all roof rack/trailers correctlyIf you’re travelling with a lot of luggage or bikes it’s important that you follow all guidance on how much you can carry. Bear in mind that roof racks laden with bags will increase wind resistance and your petrol consumption. Another thing to remember and many people forget is that the height of your car, with a roof rack or bikes on top, will be a good few feet taller which could mean you’re now too tall to go under certain low bridges. To avoid accidents, know your height and be careful near bridges, in built up areas and in the dense countryside. Road trips tend not to be planned to the minute detail but it’s always good to have a route and target times planned so you aren’t driving whilst tired. Using GPS devices is advisable too (if only to cut out the squabbling over the map!).
By: Bob Brightside
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