Summer is, allegedly, here, and that means that we’re going to see at least some bright and sunny days over the next few months. This is the ideal time to plan holidays, road trips, and other adventures, as you can use the long days to your advantage.

But if you’re going to be spending a lot of time in your car and, presumably, driving long distances, you need to make sure it’s safe and ready to go. Here are some ways to get your car ready for a long journey so you can be comfortable and safe.

MOT and Servicing

The first, and most important step is to make sure that your car is up to date on its MOT. This is a legal requirement in the UK, and you’ll generally get a reminder each year to get your car checked out.

This is something you should be doing anyway, but if you’re planning a long journey and especially if you’ll be away when your MOT is due, it could be worth getting it done a bit early. This means you’re more likely to pass and, even better, you’ll spot any potential issues before driving.

Brakes and Tyres

If you’re getting an MOT done, your brakes and tyres will be checked along with the rest of your car.

But if it’s been a few months since your MOT and you’re still well in date, it doesn’t mean you don’t need to get your car checked at all. You can check your tyres yourself, as they’re designed to show when the tread is wearing down.

So, if your car feels like it doesn’t handle as it should and you’ve noticed problems with your brakes, get them fixed before a long journey. 

Small Safety Details

As well as the big things, like brakes and the engine, you should also think about smaller safety details and see how they’re working. This includes your lights and even your windscreen wipers.

These are smaller details that can make your car unsafe to drive if they’re not working properly. You can thankfully make some repairs like replacing wiper blades yourself

Fuel and Oil

Another thing to check before you go is your fuel and oil. These can be topped up on the road and, in the case of fuel, will probably need to be. But if you can make sure that your tank is full and your oil is clean before you leave, you’ll enjoy a much smoother ride.

Stocking With Supplies

Finally, you want to make sure your car is stocked with supplies. This includes safety supplies, like an emergency kit in case you do break down despite all your preparations.

But you also want to think about the people in the car with you. If you’re traveling with your family or friends, you should consider stocking up with snacks and drinks before you go. This can keep everyone comfortable and happy for longer, and it could even save time if you don’t have to take as many breaks.