Preparing for your summer travels

When summer comes around, it’s holiday time for many Brits – with the staycation becoming increasingly popular. However, driving during the warm summer months presents its own challenges, which can sometimes cause trouble on the trip. Here, car dealers, Lookers plc offer some summer travelling advice for travellers to keep in mind.

Essential vehicle checks

Whilst winter tyres are essential for surviving the colder months safely on the roads, when the warmer weather hits, drivers should consider switching their tyres to all-season tyres to avoid rapid wear and make them last for another winter. Monitoring the vehicle’s tyre pressure is also important, since low inflation can reduce fuel economy and contribute to blow-out related accidents. Tyre pressure instructions can usually be found on one of the vehicle’s front doors or in the owner’s manual.

Engine oil can thin out in warmer weather – meaning the engine could lack lubrication. To avoid any problems the oil should be checked and if necessary changed before setting off on a long hot journey. Other items that should be checked include brake fluid levels and windscreen washer fluid.

Along with the fluids and tyres, the rest of the vehicle should also be checked over. Take the car to an experienced mechanic, who can inspect the belts and hoses, before the trip. The windscreen wiper blades should also be checked, since they may have become worn over the winter. On hot days, there is the potential for car batteries to fail, especially if they are older, so it may be wise to replace it before going on holiday.

While these are all vital components that need to be given the once over before your trip, that doesn’t mean to say that you can’t customize your vehicle with accessories that can increase your comfort for the duration of the trip too. Seat covers and air fresheners are good, but have you thought about how beneficial custom rock sliders can be? Designed to protect your vehicle from rocks and debris, they are perfect for any off-road driving you may be doing during your trip.

So, don’t forget to thoroughly check your vehicle before traveling – it may just be the best thing that you decide to do.

Pack the essentials

Especially if you are planning a long journey, an emergency travel kit should be located in the boot at all times. The kit should include a flashlight, jumper cables, basic tools and flares, along with non-perishable food and water. It is also sensible to include a cooler with light snacks and liquids for the trip. Coolers can always be replenished with additional items along the way.

Whilst there are essentials that need to be packed, try not to overload your vehicle, as it can cause issues with tyre pressure, fuel economy and safety. If items are piled too high inside the car, they can block the driver’s vision, so it is important to pack only the necessary items and do so as efficiently as possible.

Don’t over-drive

Tired driving is a definite no-no, especially on long journeys. Driving while fatigued is a major cause of accidents on motorways. To avoid fatigue, drivers should use caution and be prepared to stop and take short naps.

Towing tips

When travelling away for your summer holiday, you’ll find it hard not to see vehicles on the road towing boats, caravans or trailers – and if you are one of those drivers, you’ll be aware that you should drive more slowly than you would under normal circumstances. Sudden lane changes, sharp braking and rapid deceleration that may put pressure on the engine, should also be avoided.