Before a departure, 7 tips to prepare your car

Whether for a weekend, for a few days or for holidays, before taking the road, make sure you have not forgotten anything. From vehicle documentation to roof box to tire pressure.
Don’t overlook any detail if you don’t want your unforgettable vacation to become a memorable nightmare.

Anticipate the revision of your car:

Caution is the mother of safety. If your vehicle is flirting with the overhaul, don’t wait until the end of the vacation to take it to the garage.
A car report can highlight a possible mechanical issue that previously went unnoticed and, you avoid the fatal breakdown in the middle of the highway.

Check the condition of the tires and measure their pressure

Tires are the parts of your vehicle that are in direct contact with the road. If they are too worn or not inflated enough, you lose grip and handling. Optimum tire inflation is essential for your safety, especially if you are travelling long distances and your trunk is full.

Consult your car mechanic or respect the values  indicated in the instructions for use of your car and, recommended by the manufacturer. Be aware that worn or poorly inflated tires significantly increase the fuel consumption of your vehicle.

Check your levels and fires

An upgrade is necessary before taking the road of holidays: oil, windshield washer fluid, coolant, and, brake fluid ... All your lights must, of course, work properly.

Think about the position of the headlights that you may need to adjust if your vehicle needs to be loaded. Always have engine oil and a box of bulbs in your trunk.

Smartly fill the trunk of your vehicle

If the volume of your chest is reduced, you will certainly need to use your common sense and your Tetris player skills. Perform this task the day before departure, with complete peace of mind. Large suitcases are placed first, at the bottom of the trunk. Backpacks, sports bags, towels and pillows can be wedged between suitcases.

Good to know :
Tire pressure should be reviewed if you install a roof box.

Plan your route in advance, taking into account the traffic jams

Road maps, GPS, Smartphone applications: you are free to organize yourself as you wish, as long as you do not get lost. Some mobile applications inform you in real time of the status of the traffic, alert you in case of traffic jams or accidents and offer you an alternative route.

Choosing the departure time is important for traveling in peace. Ride at night if possible and above all, stop regularly to take breaks.

Take an extra key

Leaving your keys in the vehicle or losing them in the sand does not only happen to others. Take an extra key with you, slip it into a corner of your bag or leave it with one of the passengers.

Choosing the departure time is important for travelling in peace. Ride at night if possible and above all, stop regularly to take breaks.

Prepare all your papers

You are so concerned about your car, your luggage and the logistics of your vacation that you might forget the most important thing: the papers. Passport, identity card, driver's license, registration card, warranty card, insurance certificate...
Review your papers before putting them in your pocket. Place the pouch under your seat or in the glove compartment the day before departure.
Are you ready now to hit the road? Before you start, have your credit card handy to cover all your vacation expenses starting with the tolls.

Resume :

The 3 key points to remember:
- Think in advance about overhauling the vehicle if necessary.
- Check tires, levels and lights.
- Fill your case and prepare the documentation the day before departure.