Tips for long car journeys: how to make your journey a pleasure

1. Good planning is everything

Careful preparation is the key to a successful long car journey:

• Plan your route: Use sat-nav systems and apps to find the best route and avoid traffic jams. Plan alternative routes in case you encounter traffic delays along the way.
• Vehicle check: Before setting off, check your car’s tyre pressure, oil level, brakes and lights. A well-maintained vehicle is safer and more comfortable.
• Plan in breaks: Regular breaks are important to help you relax and stay focused. Plan a stop every two hours to get some fresh air and stretch your legs.

2. Comfort whilst travelling

During long car journeys, it’s important that all passengers are seated comfortably:

• Correct seating position: Make sure the seat is adjusted correctly to ensure a safe and relaxed sitting position. Children should travel safely in a child seat appropriate for their age, height and weight. For slightly older children who no longer need a child seat, there are, for example, suitable side panels for the headrests, which are also useful on longer journeys. This allows them to rest their heads comfortably whilst enjoying the journey. 
• Comfortable clothing: Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that doesn’t restrict your movement. This ensures extra comfort during the journey.
• Neck and lumbar cushions: Use neck and lumbar cushions to prevent stiffness and relieve pressure on your back.

3. Entertainment for the whole family

Long journeys can quickly become boring, especially for children. Make sure there’s plenty of variety and keep everyone in good spirits:

• Music and audiobooks: Create a playlist of your favourite songs or download some exciting audiobooks. That way, the time will fly by.
• Travelling games: Classic games such as ‘I spy’ or word games can provide plenty of fun and distraction.
• Tablets and books: Download films, TV series and games onto tablets and pack books and comics to keep the children entertained.

4. Food and drink for the journey

Good food is essential for a pleasant journey:

• Healthy snacks: Pack healthy snacks such as fruit, nuts, vegetable sticks and sandwiches. They’re not only tasty but also nutritious.
• Stay well-hydrated: Take enough water with you to stay hydrated. Unsweetened drinks such as tea or juice spritzers are also a good choice.
• Picnic breaks: Plan in some picnic breaks to recharge your batteries in the fresh air and enjoy the journey.

5. Safety first

Safety should always come first:

• Vehicle equipment: Make sure your vehicle is well equipped. This includes a first-aid kit, high-visibility vests, a warning triangle and a torch.
• Emergency numbers: Make a note of important emergency numbers and keep them to hand. In the event of an accident or a breakdown, you’ll be able to call for help quickly.
• Take regular breaks: Take turns at the wheel or stop for breaks in good time to avoid fatigue. This will ensure you all stay safe and alert.

Place heavy items at the bottom and at the front

Start with the heaviest items, such as large suitcases, and place them as low and as far forward as possible in the boot. This helps to keep the car’s centre of gravity low and improves driving stability. It also reduces the risk of the vehicle tipping over during sudden manoeuvres.

Even distribution

Make sure you distribute the weight evenly on both sides of the car. Uneven loading can adversely affect handling and lead to the car leaning dangerously to one side, particularly when cornering or during sudden evasive manoeuvres.

Securing your luggage

Make sure all items are securely fastened to prevent them from sliding around during sudden braking or when cornering. Use tension straps or luggage nets to secure suitcases, travel bags and rucksacks and keep the load in place.

Be mindful of visibility

Pack your car so that your view through the rear-view mirror is not obstructed. Do not overpack the boot and ensure that your field of vision remains clear to guarantee a safe and comfortable journey.

Using roof boxes

If you need extra storage space, a roof box can be a good solution. Make sure the roof box is fitted correctly and that the weight is distributed evenly. Do not overload the roof box and stick to your vehicle’s maximum permitted roof load to avoid compromising road safety.

Keeping your cabin organised

Store smaller items safely inside the car. Use the storage compartments in the doors, the centre console and the glove box to stow loose items. Avoid placing heavy items on the rear seat, as these could be thrown forwards in the event of an accident and pose a hazard.

Please observe the weight limits

Make sure you do not exceed your vehicle’s maximum permissible load. You can find this information in the owner’s manual. Overloading can impair your control of the vehicle and lead to dangerous situations, so it is important to stick to the limits.