The British weather might be unpredictable, but when the sun does make an appearance, there’s no better time to hit the road and explore the countryside.
Whether you’re planning a seaside escape or a scenic drive through the Dales, making the most of a UK summer requires a bit of planning. Not sure where to go? These top UK road trips are a great place to start.
Road trips are like a marathon for your car. Before you get behind the wheel, especially for a longer trip, make sure it’s prepared. This calls for some preparation, maintenance, or possibly an upgrade. Here are three essentials to ensure your summer drive is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Choose the Right Car for the Journey
Summer adventures call for a vehicle that offers the perfect balance between comfort, fuel efficiency, and reliability. SUVs and crossovers like the Toyota Highlander, Subaru Outback, or even electric options such as the Tesla Model Y are ideal choices.
Features like roomy interiors, effective air conditioning, and adaptive cruise control can make long drives much more enjoyable — especially with the kids or pets in tow. Don’t forget to check the boot space if you’re packing camping gear or heading off on a longer trip.
Upgrade for Comfort and Safety
To make the most of your time on the road, small improvements like getting new tires designed for motorway travel, suspension enhancements for a smoother ride, or even minor add-ons like dash cams and portable coolers can make all the difference.
The toughest part of a road trip is often the tiny space you occupy for hours on end. If your current car isn’t comfortable or spacious enough, it might be time for an upgrade.
Of course, investing in a new vehicle or even modifying your current one doesn’t have to break the bank. If you’re considering a vehicle upgrade, choosing a manageable plan with car finance options can make the process more accessible and stress-free, helping you get road-ready without straining your summer holiday budget.
Maintenance is Non-Negotiable
Even the best car needs a health check before a long journey. A full inspection, including an engine oil change, brake check, exterior lights check, tire rotation, battery test, and fluid top-ups, is critical to avoid any roadside mishaps.
While car care may not be very fun, it’s not nearly as bad as having an adventure ruined by a problem that could have been prevented. Your car works hard on a road trip, so give it what it needs to keep running.
Summer holidays can see a spike in breakdowns and accidents, often due to poorly maintained vehicles. Here’s why crash rates increase during summer — and why it’s worth taking precautions.
Pack An Emergency Kit
Emergency situations can happen at any time, anywhere. It’s best to always come prepared.
Don’t forget to pack an emergency kit with essentials like:
- Mobile phone and charger
- Warning devices (flares or triangles)
- First aid kit
- Jumper cables
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Duct tape
- Basic tool kit (tire pressure gauge, screwdriver, pliers, adjustable wrench, etc.)
- Rags, paper towels and/or baby wipes
If you’ve waited and planned for this summer road trip all year, all your excitement can be ruined if you can’t depend on your car. So, before you set out on your much-awaited and deserved summer drive, make sure your car is up to the task.
