Summer isn’t just good for walking home, eating ice-cream and drying the clothes. It’s also good for road trips and exploring.

                                               

With that in mind here are a few things you might want to keep in mind if you’re embarking on a long car journey in the coming months...

1. Plan your route and give yourself plenty of time before you leave. Rushing on the road will increase your chances of an accident and can cloud your judgement. You might want to get to your destination on time but you also want to get there in one piece. Also, take your time to pack the car and make sure you have the weight distributed evenly. Heavy objects should be placed in the centre and luggage should not obstruct the driver’s view.

 

2. Do your car checks before you leave. It’s important that your vehicle is in good working order. Check everything from the oil and the brake fluid to your tyre pressures and lights. If needs be, send it for a service before you leave.

3. When on the road, watch your diet and stay hydrated. Keep your energy levels up by eating small meals regularly. Heavy meals will make you drowsy and quick-fixes won’t cut it so stay away from chocolate and sweets. Stay hydrated with water and avoid turning on the air-conditioning. Also steer clear of the coffee and tea if you can. The key is to keep your caffeine levels balanced. Drinking coffee or tea might give you a burst of energy but the come down could affect your concentration.

 

4. Swap drivers regularly when driving. Every two hours is a reasonable time period but if you feel sleepy before this time, make sure you pull over and get the rest you need. Stop for a 15-minute nap and drink something caffeinated (a coffee or an energy drink) but don’t make a habit of it. The radio can also help to keep you energised but as usual, don’t play it so loud that it distracts your attention from the road and you can’t hear the sound of the car.

Check back here for weekly driving tips, with thanks to MSL Ballsbridge