What should you do before a long car journey?

1. Physical Preparation: A Comfortable and Energised Start

Setting off early is crucial for making the most of your time and ensuring a comfortable journey. Make sure you’ve had enough sleep and have had a nutritious, light breakfast. Fresh fruit, porridge and a hot drink will give you energy before you set off. This way, you’ll feel light and refreshed. It is also important to choose comfortable clothing. Wearing a comfortable T-shirt and shorts will help you feel better during long journeys. Comfortable cotton garments, such as tracksuit bottoms that keep you warm depending on the season, are also ideal for long journeys.

2. Preparing for the Journey: Everything You Need to Take With You

Whilst making your final preparations before the journey, pack some energy-boosting snacks and a bottle of water. These little treats will keep you alert throughout the long journey. Charge your phone and don’t forget to carry a spare charger. Make sure your navigation app is up to date.

Music and entertainment also play an important role on a journey. Create a playlist or download an audiobook to make your journey more enjoyable. Don’t forget your medicines and personal care items. If you take regular medication, make sure you have it with you. You should also carry emergency medicines for headaches, stomach upsets or colds. A small first-aid kit containing basic items such as antiseptic spray, plasters and painkillers is also very useful.

Taking frequent breaks to rest is very important on long journeys. Therefore, be sure to pack special travel pillows and blankets designed for the journey. Park at designated rest areas on motorways and take a safe break. Short walks in suitable areas and a bit of sleep when needed will keep you more alert and help you stay more attentive on the road.

3. Preparations at Home: Leave Your Home Secure

A long journey lies ahead and your suitcase is packed. You’ve even loaded your suitcase and all your other essentials into the car. You’ve had breakfast and are about to leave the house. You should bear in mind that you won’t be at home for a long time. Check the windows and doors in your home. If you have pets, arrange for a reliable carer to look after them. Also, arrange for someone to water your plants regularly.

Unplugging electronic devices saves energy and enhances security in your home. In fact, switching off the circuit breakers and turning off the water valves would be an even safer precaution.

4. Car Check: Make Safety Your Priority

You’ve had your sleep, had breakfast, and locked the door after carrying out all the necessary checks at home. The first thing you should do next is check your car. Gently check the oil level. If it’s low, top it up a little. This helps your engine run smoothly. Then inspect your tyres. If you notice that one of your tyres is slightly flat, don’t forget to pump it up straight away. Also, check your spare tyre and make sure you have it with you; it will come in handy in the event of an unexpected puncture on the road.

Apart from these, checking the brake fluid is of vital importance. Test the car’s brakes; if you notice anything unusual or hear any strange noises, visit the nearest service centre. Have a look at the battery as well. If the battery is weak, it’s a good idea to take a spare battery with you. Of course, if you’re planning a long journey, make sure to have your car’s general maintenance carried out before setting off. This way, you’ll also prevent any breakdowns that might occur during the journey. Once you’ve packed your driving licence and vehicle registration, your car is ready for a comfortable journey.

5. Emergency Plan: Be Prepared for Anything on the Road

Just in case, make sure you have emergency contact numbers to hand before setting off. It is important to know the numbers for local hospitals and the police in case of any difficulties you might encounter on the road. Keep your insurance policy and roadside assistance details ready too. Your passport, ID card, driving licence and vehicle registration document are likely already sorted… Check your first-aid kit and, in case of any mishaps on the road, take a spare battery and a torch with you. Keeping a repair kit in your car is always useful, and even more so on a long journey. The kit could contain basic tools, wire, spare fuses and tape – all essential items. You should also have a waterproof spare phone cable with you.

6. Travel Plan: Determine Your Route and Requirements

Your car is ready; now you need to determine your route. Take a look at the route via your map app. The quickest route isn’t always the best, so mark a few alternative routes. It’s also important to check traffic conditions during the journey. If there’s heavy traffic, taking a quieter alternative route will be beneficial.

Check your fuel levels. If you’re running low, top up at the nearest petrol station. Making a note of petrol stations along your planned route or checking your fuel levels at regular intervals during the journey will make things much easier later on. This way, you can top up with enough fuel at the most convenient petrol station before you run out. The weather is also an important factor for your journey. If adverse weather conditions such as rain or wind are forecast, don’t forget to pack a waterproof jacket. Don’t let changes in the weather or road conditions leave you stranded on the road.

You’re Ready to Set Off!

Everything is now ready. Start the car and set off safely, comfortably and well-prepared for an enjoyable journey. Thanks to safety precautions, route planning and physical preparations, every moment of your journey will be a pleasure. Now, all that’s left is for you to enjoy the time you’ll spend on the road!