Foreign holidays are looking uncertain for the rest of 2021, so many people are taking the safer option of a UK staycation, whether it’s a fully-fledged holiday by the sea, or visiting distant relatives not seen in over a year.

However, before you all pile in the car and set off on your UK road trip, it’s important to ensure you are fully prepared. It may be that your car has been sat on the drive for months, and The Express warns that the hot weather can cause unseen damage to your car.

It is also essential to check your windscreen for any cracks or chips before you start your journey, as a chip can easily become a dangerous crack, which you certainly don’t want when you’re miles from anywhere.

Once you’ve serviced your car, and confident it is fit for the road, then read on for our tips on how to prepare for your road trip.

Share the drive on your road trip

Driving for long periods can take a lot of concentration, which can make us feel tired, and that could lead to an accident.

Share the driving responsibilities with someone else, which is much more than ensuring everyone gets a nap or safe to check their phones while on the road. Rotating drivers will ensure that your concentration levels stay high and you are alert.

Take regular breaks

According to the government’s road safety campaign, Think! It is recommended to take a 15-minute break every two to three hours. If you’re the sole driver, regular breaks allow us to return to the wheel with concentration restored.

Pack essential road trip items

Take these essentials with you on your next road trip:

• Important documents: Remember your driving licence, car insurance details and keep the number for breakdown services handy.
• Sat-nav: As well as giving you directions, a sat-nav can remind you of the speed limit and help you find nearby service stations. It is always a good idea to keep a road atlas in the car too.
• Loose change: Keep a few coins in the glovebox for toll roads and parking charges.
• First-aid kit: Keep a first-aid kit in your boot that includes plasters, bandages and cortisone cream for insect bites.
• Torch: You can use your phone, but a torch is easier to hold if you need to look under your car or inside the bonnet. Make sure the batteries are working or charged, and take some spares just in case.

Take these items to make your road trip more comfortable and relaxing:

• Sunglasses: Tinted sunglasses will shield your eyes from glare.
• Toiletries: Tissues, hand gel and wet wipes are a lifesaver if anything gets spilt or sticky fingers need cleaning.
• Drinks and snacks: Take a water bottle to stay hydrated during the journey. Mints and gum will also prevent your mouth from getting too dry in between stop-offs. Snacks such as bananas, nuts and granola bars can give you a boost if you start to flag. Take sandwiches if you know you’ll be driving for a long stretch in an area with limited dining options.
• Music and games: Your road trip wouldn’t be complete without some tunes and fun travel games that all your passengers will enjoy. Get everyone to contribute to the playlist and play games like 21 Questions, or the classic road trip game, I Spy.

It may be a good idea to have details for windscreen replacement services, should your windscreen become damaged while you’re away, and you need to get it fixed or replaced. Visit our website today for details.