Planning an epic road trip? Whether it’s around the UK or an overseas adventure, you’re sure to have a blast with your fellow road-trippers.

There’s so much to love about a long road trip with friends like beautiful scenery, quality bonding time and a straightforward organising process, which is why so many Brits choose to go on them. According to data from 2022, almost one in four Brits say road trips are the travel type they’re most likely to choose.

However, while road trips are fun, lots of preparation should be put into your plan to ensure every one is as safe as possible while you’re cruising around. If you’re planning a road trip but aren’t sure what the essentials are, we’ve got you covered. Continue reading our guide to see what the essentials are.

Safety first

While we hope you won’t need them, bringing safety items for emergencies is a must. Accidents like a flat tyre can bring your trip to a halt, leaving you unable to get to the nearest hotel or service station. You’ll also want to be prepared for injuries.

Your complete list of safety essentials includes the following:

• First aid kit
• Emergency water and food
• Spare tyre and jack
• Seatbelt cutting
• Window breaker
• Jump leads

Comfort

Some stretches of your road trip will go on for a while, so you’ll want to be as comfortable as possible. Passengers should pack blankets, cushions and snacks to ensure they can cope with long hours in the car – without pestering the driver.

Share the load

Having just one designated driver can make the trip unenjoyable for them as they may feel tired and groggy while everyone else has been resting in the car.

We believe everyone with a licence should get temporary car insurance for the upcoming trip, so the driving can be shared when needed. This should keep everyone a little happier throughout the journey.

Pre-trip inspections

You’ll want your vehicle to be in tip-top shape before you head out, so booking it in for a service is a great idea. Mechanics can then ensure everything is in working order and you’ll be all set to go.

If you don’t want to fork out for a service, then complete the inspections yourself. Here’s what to check:

• Tyre pressure and tread depth
• Fluid levels
• Lights and electrics
• Brakes
• Air conditioning

Once you’ve followed all our advice above, you’ll be ready to take on all the best UK road trips. This should give you peace of mind that you’re fully prepared for emergencies.