Five tips for stress-free summer road trips

It’s that time of year again. The schools have broken up, the accommodation is booked, and now it’s time to hit the road and face the inevitable woes of all that summer holiday traffic. While the sheer volume of traffic and blazing sunshine may be beyond our control, the whole process doesn’t necessarily need to be as stressful as you might fear.

Whether you’re travelling in the UK or abroad, with a little bit of thought - and another one of Gem Motoring Assist’s handy checklists - you can minimise the stresses and ensure you make the most of your summer adventures.

Summer holidays should be all about fun and sunshine, even if you’re one of the many enjoying their annual “Why doesn’t the M5 go all the way to Cornwall?” moment.

Unfortunately, the thrill of the journey is often compromised by factors that would test anyone’s patience. Traffic jams, breakdowns, and uselessly vague directions, not to mention the potential for stifling heat, can all turn holiday excitement into overwhelming frustration.

There’s no guaranteed way of avoiding trouble, but by following a few simple tips you can help minimise difficulties and give yourself the best chance of an enjoyable, safe journey that sees you arrive at your destination with a smile on your face.

Vehicle checks

Nothing brings your journey to a grinding halt more effectively than a breakdown, and hot summer weather can put a lot of extra strain on your car’s systems.

Battery issues are the leading cause of summer breakdowns, with older batteries particularly at risk of failing if the demand on them is too great. Hot weather means cars are also 50% more likely to overheat, while high road surface temperatures contribute to an increased risk of tyre blowouts and punctures.

A comprehensive check of your car before you set off needn’t be complicated, but it could well save you from the stress of roadside troubles and expensive delays. Check tyre pressure and tread, check oil levels, coolant and brake fluid. Ensure your lights and indicators are functioning correctly, and don’t forget to top up your windscreen washer fluid.

If you’re travelling abroad, check the driving regulations at your destination to make sure your car is compliant and you’re carrying all the extra bits you might need (essential documents, high-viz vests, warning triangles, first aid kits, spare bulbs, breathalysers, etc.)

Take regular breaks

Too much time at the wheel leads to driver fatigue. If you feel yourself becoming increasingly grumpy and unable to concentrate, you’re probably ready for a break. As well as the obvious safety factor of being awake and alert while driving, regular breaks also give you a chance to breathe and stop the stress building up.

Plan to stop every two hours or so, even if you don’t feel tired. Stretch your legs, have a drink and relax. You can grab something to eat from any motorway service area or save yourself some money by packing your own snacks and drinks

Planning ahead is even more important in other countries where it’s not uncommon to find simple rest areas consisting of nothing more than toilet facilities and a few picnic benches. Larger service areas with the usual shops, restaurants, and fuel stations are often more spread out with these smaller rest areas offering a chance to stop somewhere a little quieter and more peaceful in between.

Avoid peak times

It sounds obvious, doesn’t it? Congestion is one of the biggest factors increasing road rage and stress, with traffic jams, slow-moving vehicles, and crowded motorways quickly causing an increase in driver – and passenger – irritability. Imagine how much easier it could be if you just removed some of the stress from your journey by simply travelling at a different time.

We know it’s not always that straightforward, but wherever possible try to avoid setting off during the rush hour or on a Bank holiday weekends when the routes to popular attractions and resorts are likely to be at their busiest. Early morning, late evening, or midweek usually offer the best chance of hopefully finding quieter roads – but make sure you check before setting off for any overnight motorway closures.

If you’re travelling abroad, it’s a good idea to check for details of local holidays, festivals and school breaks that can cause congestion. If your car isn’t already equipped with one there are plenty of real-time traffic apps and satnav with live updates to help you re-route around the worst trouble spots.

Parking issues

Uncertainty around finding a safe and convenient parking spot can cause stress, especially if you’re in an unfamiliar location. It takes a few minutes to search for different parking options at your destination, with many offering the facility to book spaces in advance. As well as reducing stress and avoiding wasted time hunting for a free parking bay, this eliminates the risk of any unwelcome penalties or fines.

Park and Ride options are available in many cities, allowing you to easily jump on a bus into the town centre, and there are a number of apps to help you find somewhere to park, whether in this country or abroad.

Regardless of where you choose to leave your car, knowing in advance how to get there and what to expect can reduce the stress. It's worth planning ahead so you know you won’t have to waste time, money and effort at the end of a long and potentially tiring journey.

Take a deep breath

You might be stuck in a jam, confused by strange road signs, or frustrated by other drivers. It’s easily said, but meeting fire with fire only risks putting you and your companions in greater danger as there’s no way of knowing how far something will escalate.

It’s not always easy to stay calm on a journey but you don’t even have to get out of the car for this one: Just breathe deeply and try to think zen-like thoughts. Most delays are outside your control, you can’t possibly know what’s going on inside the mind of another driver or how their day is going, and you’ve got no idea why the traffic flow is seemingly taking inspiration from plate tectonics.

Instead, focus on the bigger picture: the day out, the holiday journey, the excitement of a new destination. If stress builds and you can feel yourself getting wound up, pull over and take a few minutes to gather your thoughts. Usually that conscious decision to pause and breathe is all it takes to make you feel better and regain control.

Oh, and don’t forget to enjoy your summer holiday too....