How to Prepare for a Smoother Staycation

This summer, staycations and road trips will be on the minds of many families, couples and groups of friends eager to explore holiday destinations closer to home. However, to fully enjoy your staycation without any interruptions, it is essential to ensure you and your vehicle are ready for the journey. Whether you are planning a day trip to the seaside, a long weekend in the countryside or a scenic driving adventure further afield, here are key steps to prepare your vehicle and passengers for a smoother staycation.

Carry out vehicle maintenance checks before your holiday

Performing comprehensive vehicle maintenance checks before a staycation can significantly enhance your vehicle’s reliability and prevent avoidable breakdowns. These include:

• Inspecting and topping up your engine oil, coolant and screenwash levels.
• Inspecting your tyres for any signs of damage and unusual tread wear.
• Checking that all your lights are in working order.
• Inflating tyre pressures according to your vehicle handbook.
• Checking your vehicle battery health.
• Evaluating the condition of your spare tyre/ flat tyre repair kit.
• Check that your brakes are working correctly.

You can find details on how to do some of these essential vehicle maintenance checks in our blog. If you discover any signs of damage or unusual wear to your tyres, or you find that your treads are looking low, we recommend having them professionally inspected and replaced for added peace of mind. Use our dealer locator to find your nearest Davanti stockist.

Plan your journey

Before setting off, invest some time in carefully planning your route. Identify suitable rest stops and petrol stations/charging points throughout your journey to avoid fatigue and to keep everyone comfortable. For extended trips, consider sharing the driving responsibilities to prevent tiredness.

Research any planned roadworks, diversions and road closures that could impact your intended route, and have a plan B route in mind, just in case. Additionally, monitor the weather forecast for the days of your intended journey, as adverse weather conditions may require extra precautions or even a change in route. Bear in mind that roads and car parks at popular tourist spots may be busy at peak times such as the weekends or bank holidays, so make sure to leave plenty of time to reach your destination.

Pack all your road trip essentials

Packing the right essentials can make all the difference to your overall travel experience.
Start with safety equipment, including a fully stocked first aid kit, a torch with spare batteries, hi-vis vests and a warning triangle in case of a breakdown.

For comfort and convenience, pack sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen to protect against sun exposure during long drives. Bring waterproof layers and midlayers to be prepared for any unexpected rain showers or a sudden temperature drop. Keep a supply of snacks and bottled water, as well as any games and books to keep little passengers entertained during the drive.

Keep some loose change handy for tolls or car parking fees, as not all will accept card or contactless payments.

Packing up the car

When it comes to packing up your vehicle, properly loading the boot is crucial for stability and safety. If taking more luggage or passengers than usual, ensure that your tyres are appropriately inflated to accommodate the extra load. You can find details of this in your vehicle manufacturer’s handbook.

Begin loading your vehicle by placing the biggest and heaviest items at the base of the boot. This helps to maintain a lower centre of gravity and ensures stability during the drive. Distribute the weight evenly across the vehicle to prevent it from swaying and compromising handling.

Avoid obstructing the rear window, as clear visibility is vital for safe driving. If space in your vehicle is limited, consider utilising a roof box to store additional luggage without cluttering the cabin. Secure all items to prevent luggage shifting during transit, particularly when navigating winding countryside roads.

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And if you are considering a tyre replacement before your next summer road trip or staycation, look at the new Ecoura tyre. Ecoura is a high-performance tyre optimised for superior ride comfort, reduced noise and greater performance efficiency to deliver an unrivalled driving experience on your next long journey.

Here is what makes Ecoura stand out:

• Enhanced ride comfort & noise reduction: The varying tread block pitch reduces noise by removing resonant frequencies for a quieter, more comfortable drive. Compartmentalising grooves work together to minimise and help contain noise.
• Wet grip & aquaplaning resistance: Deep circumferential and outer grooves facilitate efficient water evacuation for high levels of aquaplaning resistance and maximised traction in wet conditions.
• Exceptional traction in all conditions: Engineered for high levels of straight line and cornering traction on wet and dry surfaces.
• Optimised, lightweight design: Optimised, lightweight tyre design reduces material consumption and waste for greater efficiency while maintaining performance.

For more advice about your tyres or Davanti, reach out to us at our Contact Us page, or find your local tyre expert by using our dealer locator.