We’re All Going on a Summer Holiday; Pass the Valium

A wise man once said “it’s not the destination, but the journey that counts”, although I doubt he had three kids, the missus and a couple of dogs in the back.  As the summer holidays approach many of us will be preparing for a road trip with the family.  Long car journeys should be fun (!) but they’re often fraught, expensive and not the best start to the family holiday.  Here are some tips to help you get that road trip started, and to make it a little less stressful, costly and help you make the most of your holiday.

Stress and Money Saving Tips

• When you plan your holiday you need to plan the trip as well; the key to reducing stress while travelling to your destination is to make it part of the holiday.  Especially if you have a long drive ahead this is more important than ever.  The journey can either be two days less holiday or part of the whole experience.  Regular planned breaks should be included and consider setting off later in the day, stopping overnight and completing the journey the next day.  Drive when there’s likely to be less traffic on the roads and you’ll feel less stressed and should save fuel.
• Give the car a once over before setting off; the fluids in the car should be a particular priority.  Fuel costs are high all over the country but they are particularly high at motorway services and small services stations in rural areas.  So fill the tank at the cheapest local petrol station you can find before setting off.  Check the oil level, the engine coolant level and windscreen fluids.  With these all full you’re ready to go.
• Before setting off on any long journey you should check the tread on your tyres and the pressure.  If the tread’s looking a little close to the bone, then get the tyre/s replaced.  They could easily wear down on a long journey and apart from the safety aspect there can be a nasty fine and some additional points if you get caught.  Driving with under inflated tyres uses more fuel than with correctly inflated ones so this is especially important on a long journey.  If you’re not sure check your vehicles manual for the correct pressure.
• Prepare a selection of games for the kids as they’ll be exhibiting signs of boredom by the end of your street.  There are plenty of car games ideas on the internet and hopefully they’ll keep the grown up passenger occupied as well.  Include an emergency kit, not as part of the games, but for any unexpected stops.  This should include a warning triangle, high visibility jacket, torch, map and your breakdown provider’s details.
• If you’re completing the journey in one day it’s worth packing a picnic for that essential break.  This saves money on expensive service prices and it also gets you in the holiday mood.  If there are animals on the passenger manifest, they’ll also appreciate the chance to get a bit of air, a walk and a, well, you know what.  If you’re heading off the motorway for a picnic combine it with a stop to re-fuel at a local supermarket, these don’t charge the “you’ve no choice” tax (formerly known as highway robbery) that main service stations do, which saves a bit of spending money for the main part of the holiday.
• En route, forget your usual Le Mans driving style; this is supposed to be a holiday.  Nobody loves a Sunday driver, but who cares?  Their petrol lasts for longer and they don’t spend their time bashing their heads off the wheel and screaming at the family; breathe relax and enjoy the ride.  Steady, gentle driving leaves your nerves un-frayed and saves up to thirty per cent of your fuel; that’s why Sunday drivers smile and wave in such an unconcerned manner as you speed past.

Check for promo codes on all the essential items for your summer road trip, plan your journey, prepare your stops in advance and drive safely and carefully.  Holidays should begin from home, not after a fraught unpleasant journey!