AVOID SUMMER DRIVING STRESS!

8. Are we there yet?
Do you have young kids in the car for that long summer trip? If so, you're probably already well aware of the fact that they're going to get bored during the journey. Do you have enough soft drinks in the back, music or talking books? Also remember travel sickness pills and enough travel games such as cards or magnetic draughts. 'I spy' is only going to keep them entertained for so long . . .

9. Stock up
On long journeys, you're liable to get hot and thirsty and traffic jams will happen. It's always good to have a bottle of water beside you in case you're far from a service station. Nobody likes to be stuck in traffic with a head-ache!

10. Prepare for the worst
Ok, so you think you've done everything right but you still suffer an unlucky puncture, oil or water leak or run out of petrol. Did you check you have a can of oil, canister of petrol or bottle of water in the boot so you can make it to the next garage? Is your car jack and spare wheel in order? And is that AA or RAC card in your wallet or on top of the fridge at home? It's always better to be safe than sorry.


Holiday extras:

Towing a caravan?
Make sure that when loading the caravan, the load is distributed evenly and lying parallel to the road so the towbar is under load. Again, check the caravan tyre pressures.

Driving abroad?
Ensure you read up on the country you're going to, study the speed limits and know which side of the road you're going to be driving on! You can also plan ahead by studying the maps of the different regions of the countries you're driving in, either online or by buying the maps in a travel shop or good book shop.

HAVE A GOOD TRIP!