Road trips can be an exciting way to travel and make memories with your family, but it’s still important to keep safety in mind.
Preparing for an emergency and following sensible safety advice to help keep you and your family safe if something did go wrong.
We’d love for every adventure to be hassle free, but there’s a lot to be said for ‘better safe than sorry’.
Whether you’re traveling across the country or just a few hours away, here are some essential tips to help you stay safe during your next road trip.
Plan your route
Before you hit the road, take some time to plan your route.
This includes identifying rest stops, petrol stations, and restaurants along the way.
It’s also a good idea to research any potential road works or closures that may impact your journey.
Check your vehicle
Make sure your vehicle is in good working condition before you leave.
Check the brakes, tires, and fluids, and ensure that all lights and signals are working properly.
Carry an extra set of wiper blades, tires, fan belts, fuses and bulbs; you never know when you’ll need them while on the road.
Buckle up
Seat belts save lives, so make sure that everyone in the car is buckled up before you hit the road.
This includes children, who should be properly secured in car seats or booster seats according to their age and weight.
Take breaks
Long periods of sitting in a car can be tiring and can cause fatigue.
To avoid this, take breaks every two hours or so to stretch your legs and get some fresh air.
This is also a good opportunity to switch drivers if you’re traveling with someone else.
Avoid distracted driving
Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents, so it’s important to stay focused on the road.
This means avoiding activities like texting, eating, or applying makeup while driving.
It is also important to keep the kids entertained with road trip activities so they are less likely to cause a distraction while driving.
If you need to use your phone, have something to eat or use your GPS, pull over to a safe location before doing so.
Use a GPS Car Tracker
A GPS car tracker can be a useful tool for staying safe on the road.
This device can provide real-time location information, so you always know where your vehicle is.
It can also alert you if your car is being moved without your knowledge, which can be especially helpful in the case of theft.
Be prepared for emergencies
Even with the best planning and preparation, emergencies can still happen.
Make sure you have a plan in place for what to do in case of a breakdown or other emergency.
This might include knowing how to change a tire or having the number for a roadside assistance service saved in your phone.
Make sure you have snacks, drinks and battery packs for your devices in case of any delays that may occur.
Be aware of weather conditions
Weather conditions can change quickly and unexpectedly, so it’s important to stay aware of the forecast.
If you’re driving in areas prone to severe weather like thunderstorms or snow, make sure you have appropriate gear like snow chains or tire chains, and consider delaying your trip if conditions are particularly dangerous.
Keep valuables out of sight
If you’re traveling with valuable items like laptops, cameras, or jewelry, keep them out of sight when you’re not in the car.
This can help deter potential thieves who may be tempted by visible items.
Stay alert
Finally, it’s important to stay alert and aware while on the road.
Keep an eye out for other drivers who may be driving recklessly or under the influence, and always obey traffic laws and signals.
If you’re feeling tired or distracted, pull over and take a break.
Final Thoughts on Tips for a Safe Summer Road Trip
A road trip can be a fun and exciting way to travel, but it’s important to prioritise the health and safety of you and your family.
By planning your route in advance and checking your vehicle before you set off, you are bound to prevent many issues or delays that could occur on the road.
We also advise you ensure everyone wears a seat belt or uses the appropriate car seat while travelling.
Taking breaks, avoiding distractions and using a GPS car tracker will also help you stay safe while travelling this summer.
Also, don’t forget to be prepared for emergencies and aware of any potential weather conditions, so you don’t get caught out while you are travelling.
Follow these tips and we know you will have a safe and enjoyable journey with your family.
