Holiday Journey: The Ultimate Checklist for a Carefree Road Trip

Few things compare to the freedom of a road trip — the open highway, changing scenery, local discoveries, and the thrill of adventure. But before you start your engine, it’s worth making sure both you and your vehicle are prepared. A quick tyre check or a few extra minutes of preparation can make the difference between a smooth ride and an unplanned roadside stop.

Whether you’re setting off solo, cruising with friends, or embarking on a family getaway, follow this essential checklist to ensure a safe, comfortable, and carefree journey.

Fast Facts

• Check tyre pressure for optimal safety, fuel efficiency, and performance.

• Inspect tread depth — the legal minimum is 1.6 mm.

• Avoid overloading your car; check your vehicle manual for the maximum load capacity.

• Inspect your spare tyre for pressure and condition before you travel.

• Never drive while fatigued — take regular breaks on long journeys.

1. Travel with Proper Tyre Pressure

Tyre pressure directly affects your fuel efficiency, safety, and comfort. Properly inflated tyres reduce rolling resistance, helping you save fuel and minimize wear. They also provide better grip and stability — key for long drives in changing weather and road conditions.

Quick Tips:

• Check tyre pressure every two to four weeks, and always before a long trip.

• Measure pressure when tyres are cold (after the car has been parked for at least three hours).

• You’ll find the recommended pressure in your owner’s manual, on the driver’s door frame, or under the fuel cap.

• After inflating, replace valve caps securely to prevent leaks and keep dirt out.

If your car has a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), remember it only alerts you when pressure drops by about 25% — a small decrease might not trigger a warning but can still impact fuel economy and tyre wear. That’s why regular manual checks are essential.

2. Maintain Adequate Tyre Tread Depth

Tread depth plays a vital role in keeping you safe on wet or slippery roads. The legal minimum is 1.6 mm, but for best performance — especially in rain or snow — replace tyres when they reach around 3 mm.

Shallow tread reduces your tyre’s ability to disperse water, increasing the risk of aquaplaning and longer braking distances.

What to check:

• Look for uneven wear across the tread, which can signal alignment issues.

• Inspect sidewalls for cuts, bulges, or cracks.

• Replace tyres with the same size, type, and speed rating as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer (you’ll find this information in the manual or on the tyre sidewall).

3. Check Wheel Alignment

Hitting a pothole or curb can knock your wheels out of alignment, leading to uneven tread wear, vibration, and poor handling.

Have your wheel alignment checked regularly — especially:

• After hitting a pothole or obstacle.

• When switching between summer and winter tyres.

• If you notice the car pulling to one side or the steering wheel vibrating at high speeds.

Proper alignment improves safety, extends tyre life, and ensures a smoother drive.

4. Rotate Your Tyres Before Long Trips

Tyre rotation helps achieve even wear across all four tyres, improving performance and extending their lifespan.

Standard recommendation: rotate tyres every 5,000–8,000 miles (8,000–12,800 km), or as suggested by your vehicle manufacturer.

If you notice irregular wear, have your tyres checked for alignment or balance issues before rotating them.

5. Don’t Overload the Vehicle

Packing for a holiday often means bringing everything “just in case,” but overloading your vehicle can have serious effects on performance.

Too much weight increases tyre wear, reduces fuel efficiency, and affects braking distance. Every 90 kg of extra weight can reduce fuel economy by about 0.25 miles per litre.

Check your vehicle documentation for the maximum permissible load (including passengers and luggage), and distribute weight evenly across the car.

6. Inspect the Spare Tyre

Your spare tyre is your backup plan — make sure it’s ready when you need it.
Before your trip:

• Check tyre pressure and overall condition.

• Replace it if it’s old, cracked, or brittle (even unused tyres degrade over time).

• Ensure your jack and tools are in good working order and easily accessible.

If you have a space-saver spare, remember it’s only designed for short-term emergency use and lower speeds.

7. Take Regular Breaks on Long Drives

Fatigue is one of the most common causes of road accidents.
Stay alert by:

• Taking a break every two hours or after around 200 km.

• Stretching your legs, having a drink, and recharging mentally.

• Swapping drivers if possible.

Tiredness slows reaction times and makes it easier to miss hazards — like debris, potholes, or sudden braking ahead. A short rest stop is always worth it for your safety.

Ready for the Road?

A well-prepared vehicle means peace of mind and more enjoyment on your journey. Before setting off, double-check:

• Tyre pressure and tread depth

• Fluid levels (oil, coolant, washer fluid)

• Lights, brakes, and wipers

• Emergency kit (first aid, torch, water, and phone charger)

With your car in top shape, you can relax and focus on what really matters — enjoying the open road, the scenery, and the memories you’ll create along the way.

Drive safe and happy travels!