1.7billion miles set to be driven this half term
This half term, motorists across the UK are set to drive a total of 1.7 billion miles on long car journeys. The average length people will travel on their journey is 252 miles (126 miles each way). One in six (16 per cent) plan to drive for 200 miles or more to reach their destination.
Green Flag is urging drivers to be prepared before heading off on a long journey, particularly this weekend when millions of others also plan to hit the road.
Over 13 million (25 per cent) people are planning to pack up the car for a road trip this half term, with the most popular reasons for travel being UK holidays (nine per cent), to visit friends and family (eight per cent) or for holidays abroad (five per cent).
Mark Newberry, commercial director at Green Flag, commented: “Families across the country will no doubt be looking forward to a half term break with more freedom to travel and enjoy themselves.
“We want to make sure families can enjoy the half term without any added stress or complications, so we’re urging drivers to make sure their vehicles are road trip ready. We know that many breakdowns are avoidable if the proper care is taken before and during a trip, so it’s important to thoroughly check vehicles before setting off and be prepared in case a breakdown does happen.”
Green Flag recommends drivers follow these easy steps when preparing for a long car journey:
- Walk around the car and look for any signs of potential issues, including flat tyres or lights that need replacing
- Check tyres, both for tyre pressure (including the spare) and tyre tread. Tyres do have their own built-in tread wear indicators, but this can also be checked by using a 20pence coin; if the outer band on the coin is visible when placing the coin in the groove between the treads, it means they’ve worn too low, and the tyres need replacing.
- Check all fluid levels, making sure to top up if necessary and carrying water and screen wash with you just in case
- Make sure your phone battery is topped up prior to your journey and pack a portable charger. In the event of a breakdown, using an in-car phone charger without the engine running can flatten a car battery in a very short space of time
- Pack warmer clothes as it’s likely to be cold during the half term. Always keep some warm clothes, a rug, and some comforting snacks in the car in case you get stuck
- Keep children entertained, both during a long journey and in case you do break down, consider packing travel games, tablets, books, and small toys
- Make sure you have breakdown cover to ensure you’re covered in the event of a breakdown situation.