DON'T MISS A THING

Long car journeys are a fact of life. Perhaps it’s an exciting trip, rushing off to complete the North Coast 500 in Northern Scotland. Maybe you’re commuting back home for a holiday or birthday after moving to pursue a big-city career. These journeys happen. Yet, whether you’re taking brand new vehicles or reliable used cars, these trips come with a lengthy list of essential preparations.

A successful journey hinges on efficient driving and a properly running vehicle, from tyres to fluids. Here are the essentials you should always check before embarking on a long trip. 

 1. Tyre Health: Pressure and Tread

Tyre pressure can literally make or break your journey. Having the correct pressure affects handling and protects you against blowouts (and even extortionate fuel bills). Incorrect pressure or insufficient tread depth can drastically reduce grip and risk severe accidents. Learn how to check and inflate tyre pressure, and always do so before leaving on a long journey. Don’t forget the spare, either; nobody wants a broken tyre in an emergency.

 2. Fluid Levels: The Lifeblood of Your Car

Fluids are the lifeblood of your vehicle. Without it? That long journey is going to be dramatically shortened. There are four main fluids to remember: engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windscreen washer. Always check car fluid levels before departure and top up with the correct types. Failing to do so risks serious mechanical issues, compromised car performance, and safety concerns.

 3. Lights and Wipers: See and Be Seen

If there’s one thing more important than fluids, it’s visibility. It goes two ways: you need clear vision, and other drivers need to see you. The main mechanisms to ensure this remains the case include your car’s lights and wipers. For the wipers, a quick spray of windscreen cleaner and a test swish should do the trick. But for lights, check the following:

• Headlights
• Tail lights
• Indicators
• Fog lights
• Brake lights

 4. Essential Documentation: Legally Prepared

It’s not just your car that needs to be prepared. In the UK, it’s a legal requirement to carry the following documents:

• Driving licence
• Vehicle registration certificate (V5C)
• Valid car insurance
• Current MOT test certificate

 5. Emergency Kit and Driver Preparedness: Expect the Unexpected

Nobody pictures themselves in an accident. But these incidents do happen, and it’s always smart to pack for the unexpected — even if you never fully expect it. A first-aid kit, jump leads, and warning triangle are non-negotiables. Ideally, prepare to avoid needing them, too. Regular breaks prevent drivers from becoming overly fatigued and, therefore, reduce road accidents. Be mindful of delays when travelling on bank holidays and other popular times.

With the right preparation, those long hours will fly by. Leave sufficient time to get ready before hitting the road.

Feature Image by Rutger Leistra

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