Preparing your car for christmas journeys

It’s that time of year when we’re needed in several places at once - at home, with family and friends, and at the in-laws! If you’re a designated driver, chances are you’ve got a bit of driving around to do. Whatever your Christmas travel plans are, make sure that you and your motor are ready to go. So how should you prepare your car for your Christmas journeys?  

Do your maintenance checks

The first thing that you should do when preparing for a trip, no matter how long or short, is to ensure your car is up to the job. Check that all your lights work, fluids are topped up (such as washer fluid and that all-important oil), and your tyres are in a fit and legal state for the road. Don’t forget that the minimum legal tyre tread depth is 1.6mm!

Be security conscious 

With those precious gifts stowed in your car, ensure that you’re not putting your car and its contents at risk by leaving them visible and unattended. Be particularly vigilant if you’re having to make stops at service stations, and anywhere else that opportunist thieves may operate. 

Plan your trip 

It’s likely that you may be making journeys that you don’t often make (perhaps you haven’t been since last year, for example), so ensure you plan your trip and leave plenty of time. Fire up the sat nav before you get moving, and consider travelling at quieter times. The last thing you want to be doing is rushing to get there in time for lunch! 

Keep everyone entertained 

If you’ve got kids, you’ll know that car boredom and Christmas excitement can collide to make a fraught in-car atmosphere! Load your festive tunes ahead of time, keep some snacks handy, and deploy the iPads if need be to keep little ones occupied until you reach your destination. 

Don’t overload your car

If you’ve got plenty of presents on board, as well as everything you need for an overnight stay, chances are the car will be feeling pretty full. Not only is your car’s performance compromised by an overloaded cabin, but it’s actually illegal to exceed your car’s weight limit - ensure you’re not doing so by consulting the vehicle handbook. 

Drive carefully 

If the weather doesn’t play ball this Christmas, the roads you’re driving are unfamiliar, and you’re full of festive excitement, it’s important to take it steady on your travels. Adhere to all of the above, and keep your wits about you on the road to stay safe this festive season. Christmas is a time to treasure, so ensure you and those on board stay safe enough to do so.