Holiday motoring tips

Are you going on a driving holiday any time soon? Driving is one of the most enjoyable ways to travel and in Ireland not only do we have some spectacular drives but we also have the UK and Europe on our doorstep.

Below you will find some tips that will ensure stress free motoring holidays.

Make sure all the fluid levels in your car are correct
Keep the radiator fluid, brake fluid, engine oil and windscreen wash container topped up. This is vital as a leak or a squeak in your engine could bring your holiday to a grinding halt. Carry approved engine oil, antifreeze and radiator fluid in the car for your trip so that you can simply top it up whenever you need to.

Check the traffic reports
This is also very important. Listen to the traffic reports for your area and the area you are travelling to and if there is an easier, more hassle free way of getting to your destination plan accordingly and avoid any overly congested motorways.

Plan your route
Being absolutely clear on your route is very important especially if you are travelling with the children so that you can manage their expectations on how long it will take to arrive. Consider investing in a Sat Nav system and pre-program your routes before you leave.

Recharge your own batteries
Make sure that you rest enough and share the driving if possible. The majority of accidents are caused by driver error and fatigue plays a large part in many motorway accidents. So drink plenty of water and stop for a tea of coffee if you are feeling tired. Pull over safely into a designated rest stop and have a nap if you are really tired.

Spare tyre and tyre change kit
Before you leave check your spare tyre and tyre changing kit and make sure everything is in place and in working order. Have your spare tyre inflated BEFORE you pack.

Make sure you are covered under your car insurance

If you are driving in Europe, make sure your car insurance policy covers you for accidental damage cover. It is important to speak to your insurer to find out if you will be insured in the country that you are travelling in.

Check your brakes
Check that your brakes are working properly and that your brake disks aren't worn down too much.

Clean your windscreen
Clean your windscreen properly before you leave. If you are leaving in the early morning and your window is dirty it will severely affect your visibility, so counter this by giving your windscreen a good scrub.

Look out for pedestrians
Drive considerately, particularly if you go through little towns on your holiday. Keep your eyes open for pedestrians and remember that you are the visitor!

Entertainment
Have enough entertainment in your car for you and your children, so plenty of books, games and toys to make sure that the driving part of your trip isn't boring.

Take your documents
Take all your documents including your driving licence including the paper counter part, your passport, and your car insurance details, including your breakdown cover documents.

Sunglasses / tinted driving glasses
If you are driving in the summer then get yourself a pair of quality sunglasses which will considerably reduce the amount of strain on your eyes.