Food and water
We’re all susceptible to getting a bit peckish and thirsty on long journeys so having some food and drink in the car is a good idea, especially if you are travelling with children. But also, if you are unlucky enough to be stuck in your car for a long time, such as being caught in a major traffic jam or waiting for breakdown recovery, you and your passengers will be thankful for the extra nourishment.
High vis jacket
Should the worst happen and you have to pull up on the side of a busy road, pack a hi-vis vest for all the occupants of the vehicle so other road users can see them. A warning triangle is another helpful addition to your boot. Placing the triangle 45 metres away from the vehicle in the event of a breakdown will notify other road users that there is a hazard in the road.
Tyre Inflator
Suffering a flat tyre while on the road is every motorist’s nightmare. Not everyone knows how to change a flat tyre and the whole process of removing and replacing one can be a challenge.
With an inflator in your boot, there’s no need to remove tyres. You’re spared from the difficulty of removing bolts, jacking up tyres, lifting and installing tyres. Many inflators are easy to use, with just a few parts to connect and handle.
Spare tyre
Should you wish to carry a spare really depends on your attitude to being stranded with a puncture. A space saver tyre looks like a regular steel wheel that’s been on a severe diet. Change onto one of these and your top speed is limited to 50mph. In addition, you’re not supposed to cover large distances on them. They really are just a get-you-home option.
First aid kit
It can be hard to predict when a car accident might occur, but when they do happen, it can be a matter of life and death.
If an accident happens, you will want to be prepared for potentially life-threatening injuries, which is why car first aid kits are vital. An emergency kit in a car or vehicle can not only prove to be crucial in the event of a serious accident, but also in minor mishaps such as cuts, scrapes and burns. The kit serves as an essential means of giving assistance to an injured person until further medical help arrives.
Breakdown and emergency kit
A top of the line breakdown and emergency kit should contain all the items you are likely to need to safely manage an emergency situation on the road. The contents will provide the driver with a warning triangle, a high visibility vest and emergency light sticks to signal other drivers in the event of a breakdown during the day or night. It will also include first aid kits and a fire extinguisher designed for car fires.
Car fluids
One of the most important parts of vehicle maintenance is regularly checking your car fluids and topping them up when necessary. Aim to check your car fluids at least every four to six months to protect your vehicle against damage and save repair costs in the long term.
Before you change your car fluids, remember to park your car on a flat surface, turn the engine off and ensure that your car is in neutral. You should also wait until the engine is cold before you top up any fluids.
Ensure you top up:
-Brake fluid
-Engine oil
-Engine coolant
-Power steering fluid
-Transmission fluid
-Windscreen washer
Phone and charger
It goes without saying that you will probably be taking your mobile phone with you on your trip, but just as important is a charger to make sure the battery doesn’t die when you need it most. This is particularly important if using the phone’s sat nav as the GPS will drain the battery more quickly. 12v power adapters which use the cigarette lighter port can be picked up cheaply allowing you to charge your handset on the go.
If you would like further advice on how to ensure your car is ready for a long haul journey, please feel free to contact our friendly team today.
