Getting your car ready for road trips is always essential to make sure you don’t run into serious problems. Getting roadside help is not always quick and simple. I am always very cautious, especially travelling with two young children in the car, so I always like to plan ahead.
These are the items on my checklist before going for a long road trip:
Water Tank
The water tank is often overlooked as you don’t often need to look under the bonnet. Then just when you need it, you find that the water tank is empty! This is especially relevant during this crazy cold weather – remember to top up your water tank with a good screen wash to prevent it from freezing, which is available from motor retailers, garages and even some supermarkets.
Using screen wash will help avoid the wiper blades smearing on the screen. It contains water softener in it to keep the pipes and jets clean and it’s formulated to clear road grime and insects. Most will have anti-freeze in it so it should prevent the water from turning to ice in very cold weather.
Check Oil Level
Again, this is another check that is overlooked, because we don’t often need to look under the bonnet. Oil is essential to lubricate your car’s engine and to ensure it runs optimally.
Check Tyre Pressure
You should check your tyre pressures at least once a month but sometimes life is too busy! So make sure you check it before your road trip. Having the correct inflation pressure in your car’s tyres not only optimises the performance but also increases your personal safety when driving. This also helps to increase your tyres’ lifespan and decrease your fuel consumption. The recommended tyre pressure levels for front and rear tyres are often different. If unsure, check your car manual or on the side of your driver’s door.
If you think your tyre has less than 1.6 millimetres of tread remaining anywhere around the complete circumference of the tyre, legally you have to change it immediately! It is against the law and you may get fined and have points on your driving licence.
If you are looking for the cheapest tyre prices online, you may like to try out TyrePlus. TyrePlus have over 700 fitting locations across the UK and Northern Ireland and also provide a mobile fitting service for added convenience. Choose your tyres from their extensive range of summer, winter, SUV, van and 4×4 tyres, then select one of their fitting partners near you and the date and time you would like to have your tyres fitted! If you can’t make it to one of their fitting partner locations, you can even choose their hassle-free mobile fitting service where they will fit your tyres at home or work.
Food & Drink
It is not often you will get stuck on the motorway, but when you do, these things are very handy, especially when you have little ones with you! We always pack snacks and bottle of waters (kept away from sunlight). Empty bottles also have their use!
Last but not least, do remember to keep your insurance details handy! When things happened, you know where to ask for help! If I have missed out anything, do comment and let me know!
Disclosure: This is a featured post.
