A long drive, whether a holiday trip or a move across the country, puts more strain on both driver and car than everyday journeys. Planning breaks, checking the car and knowing what to do if things go wrong make it safer and far less stressful. This guide builds a complete plan.
Step by step
Plan the route and timings
Choose your route with a sat nav or map app, check for roadworks and closures, and consider travelling outside peak times. Allow extra time for delays so you are not tempted to rush.
Schedule regular breaks
The Highway Code advises taking a break of at least 15 minutes every two hours. Plan service areas or safe stops in advance, and share driving if there is another insured driver.
Check the car thoroughly
Check tyre pressures for a loaded car, tread and condition, oil, coolant, screenwash, lights and wipers. Make sure your tax, MOT and insurance are all valid, and that any extra drivers are insured.
Check the weather and traffic
Look at the Met Office forecast and National Highways or local traffic information before you set off. Delay the journey if severe weather warnings advise against travel.
Pack for delays
Carry water, snacks, warm layers, a phone charger, a torch, a first-aid kit and any medicines you need. In winter, add a blanket, ice scraper and de-icer.
Know what to do if you break down
Keep your breakdown cover details handy. On a motorway, get to the hard shoulder or an emergency area if possible, leave the car by the left-hand doors, stand well away behind the barrier and call for help. If you cannot get off the live lane, keep your seat belt on, switch on hazard lights and call 999.
Ready-to-use checklist
- Route and alternative route
- Planned break stops
- Tyres, fluids and lights checked
- Valid tax, MOT and insurance
- Breakdown cover details
- Water, snacks and warm layers
- Phone charger and torch
Practical tips
- Tiredness kills: if you feel drowsy, stop somewhere safe, have a drink containing caffeine and rest for 15 minutes.
- Do not rely on your phone signal; note key junctions and service areas beforehand.
- Secure luggage so nothing loose can fly forward in heavy braking.
Common problems
I am stuck in stationary motorway traffic. What should I do?
Stay in your vehicle unless told otherwise, keep a safe gap, listen to traffic updates and keep emergency lanes clear for services.
A warning light has come on mid-journey. Should I keep going?
Check the handbook. A red warning usually means stop safely as soon as possible, while an amber one may allow you to continue carefully to a garage. If unsure, stop and call your breakdown provider.
The weather has turned bad on the way. What should I do?
Slow down, increase your following distance and use dipped headlights. If conditions become dangerous, stop at a safe place such as a service area and wait.