CHECKLIST FOR LONG ROAD TRIP HOW TO
CHECKLIST FOR LONG ROAD TRIP FULL
CHECKLIST FOR LONG ROAD TRIP REGISTRATION

If washer fluid levels are low, make sure you top them up before setting off.В For winter driving, ensure correct dilution to prevent freezing.

Washer fluid: Keeping your window clean will allow you to keep an eye on any hazards on your trip.

These are included in our RAC Driving in Europe kits. You may also require headlight beam deflectors for driving in Europe unless your vehicle has a built-in beam adjustment setting. Ask a family member or neighbour to check the back lights for you.

CHECKLIST FOR LONG ROAD TRIP FULL

Lights: Defective lights affect road safety as they make you less visible to other road users, so make sure theyвЂ™re all in full working order.You face a ВЈ2,500 fine for each illegal tyre. If you canвЂ™t see the outer band of the coin face, your tyres are above the legal limit (1.6mm). To check the tread depth, insert a 20p coin into the tread grooves on the tyre. Tyre pressure and tread depth: Your tyres should be inflated to the correct pressure, allowing for heavy suitcases in the back.В Most vehicles have a sticker (inside of the fuel filler or drivers' door jamb) which indicates minimum tyreВ pressures and the suggested pressures for heavy loads.

CHECKLIST FOR LONG ROAD TRIP HOW TO

On a cold one, it's just as important because it also prevents the water from freezing.В Find out how to check your coolant.

Coolant: On a hot day, coolant removes excessive heat from your engine вЂ“ essential if youвЂ™re stuck in traffic.

Make sure the oil level is between the minimum and maximum markers.

Oil: Your car will break down if the engine doesnвЂ™t get enough lubrication, so do the dipstick test.

There are several maintenance checks you can do yourself, including: ItвЂ™s particularly important to take seasonal weather into account long distances and extra weight from luggage and passengers can put a bigger strain on your car. ItвЂ™s crucial to take time to give your car the once-over before you hit the road. Get everyone to contribute to the playlist and play games like 21 Questions, or the classic: I spy.

Music and games: Your road trip wouldnвЂ™t be complete without some tunes and fun travel games that all your passengers will enjoy.

Take sandwiches if you know youвЂ™ll be driving for a long stretch in an area with limited dining options. Snacks such as bananas, nuts and granola bars can give you a boost if you start to flag. Mints and gum will also prevent your mouth getting too dry in between stop-offs.

Drinks and snacks: Take a water bottle to stay hydrated during the journey.

An anorak and pair of wellies may also prove useful if it decides to lash it down вЂ“ we know how unpredictable the Great British weather can be!

Warm clothes: If you want to beat the traffic and travel during the night (or first thing in the morning), take a jacket or woolly jumper with you as it could be on the chilly side.

Remember any prescription medicines you need, too. Sun cream is a must if youвЂ™re planning to stop off at the beach or go on long walks in hot weather.

Toiletries: Tissues, hand gel and wet wipes are a lifesaver if anything gets spilled or sticky fingers need cleaning.

Drive in tinted sunglasses that will shield your eyes from glare.

Sunglasses: The sun can be dazzling while youвЂ™re driving, causing headaches.

Take these items to make your road trip more comfortable and relaxing: The rule is slightly different in Cyprus, Malta and Spain where a sticker should be displayed no matter what is on your number plate.

CHECKLIST FOR LONG ROAD TRIP REGISTRATION

EU registration plate or UKВ sticker: UK-registered cars without a blue EU registration plate will also need to display a UKВ sticker when driving in EU countries.

Make sure the batteries are working and take some spares just in case.

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.

First-aid kit: In case of minor bumps and scrapes of the human variety, keep a first-aid kit in your boot that includes plasters, bandages and cortisone cream for insect bites.

Loose change: Keep a few coins in the glovebox for toll roads and parking charges.

ItвЂ™s a little old-school but still take a road atlas with you as back-up in case your sat-nav fails!

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.

Important documents: Remember your driving licence, car insurance details and to keep the number for breakdown services handy.

Take these essentials with you on your next road trip:

Checklist for long road trip