Hitting the open road is a liberating feeling, especially when adventure lies ahead. However, nearly half of UK drivers (44%) admit to feeling stressed or anxious when driving regularly, according to research from car warranty provider ALA Insurance, in which 2,000 UK drivers were surveyed.
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For those planning to embark on a summer road trip to explore more of the country, vehicle prep is essential to ensure a worry-free journey. From finding the right vehicle for the route to addressing safety concerns, there are numerous ways to prepare your vehicle for a smooth and enjoyable road trip.
Smart & Simple Vehicle Prep for a Worry-Free Road Trip
Practical thinking for ideal transportation
After planning out an adventurous itinerary, selecting the perfect vehicle to drive the route is imperative. Planning to drive your current vehicle is a great way to go (especially if you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to travel), though it’s important to realise that your current vehicle may not be suitable for a long road trip. For example, those with an action-packed and lengthy itinerary may not be comfortable with taking a small electric vehicle if space, charging infrastructure, and driving range is a concern. With that in mind, choosing the right vehicle will guarantee a comfortable and practical ride of choice.
For those planning a road trip that puts nature at the forefront of the itinerary, a vehicle that has plenty of space for all of the gear is a must. Whether your road trip involves plenty of fishing, camping or hiking, a midsize truck is a great consideration. With plenty of room for fishing gear, tents, camping chairs, food, and other gear, a midsize truck is ideal for road trips that require heavy and bulky equipment. However, those looking for the perfect road trip-worthy truck can find the search to be overwhelming due to the great variety of models and features available.
Conducting your own research is a great way to make an informed decision, from online video reviews to blogs and beyond. Ratings and reviews are an ideal resource when searching for insight and opinions, especially when aiming to gain first-hand insight from consumers regarding vehicle performance, modern features, and other aspects of the driving experience.
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Taking care of existing issues first
After deciding which vehicle you’ll be taking on the open road, there are several simple aspects of car preparation that you can undertake yourself right at home. In addition to checking and putting air in the tyres, addressing problems that already exist regarding your vehicle is a must, especially before a lengthy trip.
According to Progressive, this involves addressing “unusual noises, leaks, shakes, illuminated dashboard lights,” in addition to any air-conditioning concerns. If you’re going to take a new vehicle on your trip or one that you don’t drive every day, it’s recommended to first do a test drive to determine whether there are any specific concerns. From there, you’ll be able to take your vehicle to a professional mechanic with a list in hand.
Comprehensive inspections (both professional and personal)
In addition to addressing any existing issues, comprehensive inspections are necessary when planning to head out on a lengthy road trip. Forbes lists several key points that will help prepare your vehicle, from having a professional perform a routine checkup to checking that all documents (like your licence plate sticker) are up to date. Checking all of your insurance coverages can prove to be another essential way to prepare your vehicle (and yourself) for a road trip, including auto insurance as well as home or renters insurance.
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After having your vehicle assessed and inspected by a professional, carrying out a personal ‘inspection’ of your vehicle yourself can be an integral part of road trip preparation by putting worries to bed well before the day that you plan to leave. Performing a visual ‘walk through’ of the vehicle, for example, can help guarantee that you have everything you need, from a first aid kit to an emergency tool kit, extra phone chargers, supplies for the kids and more. Creating and maintaining a checklist is a simple and easy way to confirm that you have everything packed and present in the vehicle beforehand, and can help keep everything organised amidst the typical pre-holiday chaos.
Vehicle prep is essential when exploring the UK by road, as it ensures an action-packed holiday without unnecessary driving-related worries. By planning ahead, choosing the right vehicle, and performing a thorough inspection, you can help put any road trip concerns to rest.
What steps do you include in your vehicle prep routine to ensure a smooth and worry-free road trip?
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