The appeal of a staycation is growing, with so many incredible places to discover around the UK. Jumping in the car and going on a road trip to create some new family memories is something you just can’t beat, particularly if the weather forecast is predicted to be good.
However, if you’re hoping to pack up the car and enjoy a camping trip together, it’s important that you prepare properly. From savvy packing to making sure you’ve got the right camping equipment, we’ve got everything you need to know about preparing your car for camping.
Step 1: Vehicle maintenance for a successful journey
First and foremost, it’s important to make sure that your car is in good condition to make the journey there and back, whether you’re camping somewhere locally or travelling to a further part of the country.
It’s key before any journey to check essential vehicle fluids such as coolant and screen wash, as well as oil. This can help to make sure your cooling system is in good condition and that you have clear visibility through your windscreen, both of which can be crucial on any car journey.
If you need to top up your screen wash, check out our handy guide.
You should also carry out some maintenance basics like checking the condition of your tyres, brakes, car battery and lights, as this will ensure you have a smoother journey with less chance of running into problems.
Step 2: Efficient packing for your camping trip
When it comes to packing up the car with your camping essentials, it’s important that you avoid overloading. This is because your car will have a payload limit, which includes passengers, luggage, roof-mounted equipment and any additional accessories carried in the vehicle. The payload refers to the maximum amount of weight you can have loaded on or in a vehicle.
Consider making use of handy storage solutions like boot organisers or a roof box. If you use a roof box, be sure to stay within both the roof-load limit and the box manufacturer’s weight recommendations. However you decide to pack, it’s important that you can still see outside the windows of your car, particularly the rear window for safety reasons.
Before setting off, pack a few essentials such as a torch, phone charger, first-aid kit, high-visibility vest and breakdown cover details. These items can be invaluable if you experience delays or vehicle problems during your trip.
Step 3: Upgrading your car for camping
So, while your car may be the means of transport for your camping trip, there may also be the opportunity to get more out of your car for the camping itself. You may want to consider investing in a roof tent, provided your vehicle and roof rack system are rated to support the required load. Always check vehicle and manufacturer specifications before fitting one.
Similarly, you could also look into the idea of a car awning to help expand your camping space, providing the perfect shelter for sitting or cooking.
You should also think about how your car may be able to provide the necessary power for camping equipment, which can be useful for things like kettles, portable fridges and charging your phone. However, it’s important to check that your car is suited to this and be sure to check proper instructions on how to power devices from your car’s engine and battery.
Enjoy your trip!
If you’ve packed appropriately and made sure your car is fully ready for the journey ahead, you’re off to a great start for this year’s camping trip. Remember, the right maintenance products for your car can make all the difference to a smooth experience. Check out our full range of Prestone products today.