Preparing your car for a summer road trip is one of the simplest ways to make a long journey safer and less stressful. Whether you are heading to the coast, visiting family or planning a longer UK holiday, a few basic checks can reduce the risk of avoidable problems on the road. According to GOV.UK vehicle safety guidance, drivers must make sure their vehicle is safe to drive all year round, including checking tyres and roadworthiness before setting off. This guide explains the key checks to make before a summer journey, why they matter and how to prepare your car with confidence.
Simple Checks Before You Set Off
The best summer car checks are quick, practical and easy to build into your routine. Before a long journey, start with the basics. Check your tyre tread and pressure, make sure your oil and coolant levels are correct, confirm your lights and wipers are working, and ensure you have enough fuel or battery charge for the journey. According to National Highways vehicle check advice, simple checks can help prevent breakdowns and save time and money.
Tyres are especially important before a summer holiday because cars are often carrying more weight than usual, including passengers, luggage and roof boxes. GOV.UK states that cars must have at least 1.6mm of tread across the central three quarters of the tyre and around the full circumference. That is the legal minimum, but for a longer trip it is sensible to check tyre condition well before the day you travel.
Why Preparation Can Prevent Summer Breakdowns
A checklist for a road trip is not just useful for peace of mind, it can make a measurable difference. According to National Highways, traffic officers deal with more than 85,000 breakdowns every year, and over 40 percent are caused by vehicles running out of fuel, poor tyre maintenance, power loss and engine trouble. These are exactly the kinds of issues basic checks can help prevent.
RAC research also shows how often drivers skip preparation. According to the RAC’s regular car checks guidance, only 19% of drivers say they always check their cars are road-ready before making a trip, while 30% say they never do. That creates a clear risk, especially during busy summer travel periods when delays and breakdowns can quickly disrupt a holiday.
Common Questions Before a Summer Road Trip
What should I check before a long journey?
Start with tyres, oil, coolant, screenwash, lights, wipers, fuel or charge level, and MOT status. You can also use the GOV.UK MOT history checker to check when your MOT is due and review previous test results, mileage and advisories.
Should I check the weather before travelling?
Yes. Summer weather can still create difficult driving conditions. According to National Highways advice on travelling in extreme heat, drivers should check the forecast for their route and destination, take drinking water, allow plenty of time and avoid the hottest parts of the day where possible during extreme heat.
What should I pack for a summer road trip?
Keep it simple. Water, sunglasses, phone charger, breakdown details, basic first aid items and any medication are useful. National Highways also recommends carrying essential summer supplies if severe weather is forecast.
Extra Tips For A Smoother Journey
It is worth planning your route before you leave, especially if you are travelling during school holidays or bank holiday weekends. Build in rest stops, check for roadworks and avoid setting off with very little fuel or charge. If your car has shown recent warning lights, unusual noises or handling changes, arrange for it to be checked before travelling. A small issue on local journeys can become a much bigger problem on a long motorway trip.
If you are planning regular summer travel, this is also a good time to think about whether your current car still suits your lifestyle. A reliable, comfortable car with enough boot space, good fuel economy and the right driving position can make longer journeys much easier.
Before You Set Off
Preparing your car for a summer road trip does not need to be complicated, as the most important checks and include checking tyres, fluids, lights, wipers, fuel or battery charge level and MOT status. Official guidance from GOV.UK and National Highways makes clear that drivers are responsible for keeping their vehicles roadworthy, and that many breakdowns can be avoided with basic preparation. If your current vehicle no longer feels right for longer journeys, Freewheel Autos can help you find a car that better suits your summer plans and everyday driving.
Please contact us to find out more.
Email – sales@freewheel.autos
Telephone – 01257 650654
If you are planning your route, take a look at our guide to the best scenic roads to drive in the UK for inspiration and make the most of your summer journey.