Taking care of your car enough? In the first quarter of 2016, 7.3 million people holidayed in the UK, a rise of 10 percent from 12 months previous. Each year, the quality of UK holiday destinations is developing, the number of resorts is growing, as is the variety of activities in which you can partake. That said, it should come as no surprise that Brits are choosing an hour-long trek to the Peak District as opposed to a few thousand-mile flight across the Mediterranean.

However, before setting off on your next holiday, its crucial that you’ve given the car the appropriate once over.

Windows

Chances are, if you’re going to be visiting the most breathtaking locations, you will have to veer off the motorway and head on to B-roads. Therefore, ensure you have your washer bottles topped up. Country roads that lead to some of the nicest campsites are also used on a daily basis by tractors and other farm machinery, which are likely to spray muck over the roads. Following Google maps can be tricky enough, never mind having to do so with darkened out, dirt-covered windows. 

Wheels

Automotive testing has found that an underinflated tyre can increase your fuel consumption by around five percent. So not only will your fuel bill be much heftier than it should be, you’re also doing more damage to the environment, and placing yourself in grave danger as well.

A blowout not only puts you at serious risk of crashing, it can also cause devastating consequences to other road users. Similarly, it’s a nightmare to get fixed as it is likely to damage the rim in the process. Handling levels are massively affected by tyres that are underinflated as well, with stopping distances increased and steering taking a similar knock. A car tyre inflator is easily stored in the boot, taking up limited space and will seem like a priceless purchase when you’re stood on the hard shoulder.

We strongly suggest checking what comes as standard with your vehicle. Marketed as a space saver, most car manufactures in recent years have opted out of providing consumers with a full-size spare wheel, and in its place, you will find tyre sealant foam. Be comfortable that you know how to use it before heading off into the abyss, and if it’s a spare wheel, learn how to use a jack.  

Engine

Taking care of your car will save yourself time and money by giving your engine a quick check prior to driving for a few hundred miles — it could save you an astronomical amount of cash. Grab a bit of kitchen roll, pull out your engines dip stick, wipe away the oil and re-dip it to check your levels. If you’re running low, top it up. Most of us will ever only venture under the bonnet as soon as something goes wrong e.g. a Vesuvius-like cloud billowing from the engine. Despite an exact timescale of how often you should check your oil not existing, experts suggest if you’re a regular driver you should check it at least once per month. Let your oil run too low or use the wrong one and you could be looking at serious damage to your car’s components.

For the journey

Don’t just look after your car — take yourself into consideration as well. Pack up a selection of snacks, or, if you’re going to be in the car for a considerable amount of time, potentially bring a substantial meal. It’s important that you don’t overlook drinks either – remember to take plenty of cold and hot drinks such as water and organic coffee to keep you hydrated on your trip.

Due to the fact the radio can become ridiculously repetitive, it may be worth considering setting yourself up with a lengthy playlist to help you on the road. If you fancy a few laughs along the way, a nice addition to Spotify as of late is the Best of British Comedy playlist, which includes a range of excerpts from stand up shows and BBC series Mock the Week.

Now you’ve got your checklist for taking care of your car, all that is left to do is pack up the car and hit the road!

About the author

Jonny Gilpin is a copywriter for digital marketing agency, Mediaworks. Originally from Northern Ireland but now based in Newcastle, he specialises in lifestyle, current affairs, and sport.