Top 3 tips for driving long distances

Getting ready for a long-distance drive? Whether it’s your first time spending hours behind the wheel or you’ve got a multi-day road trip in the pipeline, being prepared will make all the difference. With full confidence in your vehicle, you’ll get more out of the experience!

Keeping boredom at bay helps you to make the most of the time you spend in your car. Below, we’ve outlined some of the best tips to make those long drives pass by faster.

1. Keep your car in top condition

Looking after your car is the first step towards safe and enjoyable motoring, no matter how far you’re driving. Before you start a longer trip, take a walk around the outside of your vehicle. Check for obvious signs of damage like scratches, dents, or corrosion. Don’t forget to have a look at your tyres too, which need to have tread depth of at least 1.6mm each.

All the essential vehicle safety checks make your journey run smoothly and could save you costly fines if you’re stopped by police. If you’re heading out on a longer trip, make sure that your road tax and vehicle MOT will stay valid for the duration.

2. Pack the essentials

Keeping safe on the roads means expecting the unexpected!

Always try to pack an emergency kit containing everything from first aid supplies to spare parts and repair tools for your car. If you’re heading to a remote area, it could be worth packing fluids like engine oil and coolant for extra peace of mind. Spare clothes, including waterproof outer layers, could prove invaluable.

If you’re sharing the drive, we suggest that you consider multi-car insurance for the journey. Keep the documents in the glovebox or another secure compartment, along with emergency contact information. In case of accident or breakdown, you can help to streamline things for yourself or for the emergency services.

3. Stock up on snacks

You’ll need to keep fuelled if you’re driving through the day and night.

Keep plenty of long-life snacks or fresh fruit in the front of the car with you, so you can quickly and easily have a bite to eat on the move. It’s worth keeping a large reusable water bottle with you on your travels - and you can refill this when you stop at service stations.

Don’t forget to keep refreshed and take regular breaks too. Research shows that tiredness may contribute to up to one in five road collisions. Being sleepy increases our reaction times and reduces alertness and concentration too, so don’t push yourself too hard. Rest when you need to – and pass the time with music and podcasts.

Longer adventures on four wheels call for extra preparation. With a proactive approach to vehicle checks, extra paperwork and personal safety, you’ll be ready to start your journey strong.