Rural watchdog’s top tips for ‘staycationers’

In the aftermath of the financial crisis, holidaying in the UK or rather 'staycationing', has become wildly popular, especially for families with children.

Whether it's walking in Worcestershire, learning to ride a horse in Warwickshire, or glamorous camping or 'glamping', as it is now known, in the National Forest, the traditional British holiday is back.

However, on a relaxed summer holiday where you don't have to deal with hectic airports or worry about ensuring your passport is packed, it is easy to ignore other essential travel aspects, including whether or not your car is ready for the extended journey. 

CLA West Midlands director, Caroline Bedell, says: "More and more people are planning to take their summer break in the UK, which is fantastic news for the rural economy. However, it also means some families are setting out on lengthy journeys, often on unfamiliar country roads, in cars that have been heavily loaded.

"Many motorists may have treated car maintenance as a low priority in these difficult times and we tend to over-rely on the dependability of modern vehicles. It is very important that drivers realise the necessity to ensure their cars have been fully checked, as there is a real danger in breaking down on a strange road with all the family on board."

Now that the schools are about  break up, the CLA has come up with some top tips to ensure 'staycationers' get to their destination this summer:

Generally:

· Always prepare your car before leaving on a long journey. Check tyres / brakes / windscreen wash / lights / oil / water levels prior to setting off.
· If towing a caravan, ensure you carry out suitable checks for its roadworthiness too.
· Keep an eye on your fuel levels, especially if driving in the countryside and you are unsure where the next filling station will be. Try to never let the gauge fall below one quarter.
· Make sure you have adequate car breakdown cover that will get you to your destination with minimal disruption in the unfortunate event of a breakdown – and make sure you have your emergency call out number with you.  
· Plan your journey so you know where you are going, taking a map or GPRS system with you plus telephone number for your destination in case you do get lost or break down.

In case of a Breakdown:

· Breaking down on the side of the road can be extremely hazardous. Consider your own safety first – if possible get your vehicle off the road and ensure all passengers are safe.
· Place a warning triangle at a suitable distance prior to the scene and switch on your hazard lights.
· Make sure every passenger wears a reflective jacket or tabard.
· If it's warm and you wish to leave the car, exit with extreme caution on the side of the car away from the traffic.  Find somewhere to sit that is a good distance away from the road and fumes and where you can keep an eye out for help to arrive.
· Of particular note, in any breakdown situation don't forget to tell the breakdown company if you have children on board.

Mrs Bedell added: "With this new 'glamping' craze, the number of caravans and trailers on the roads is increasing, so it is also very important people are aware of how to tow caravans correctly and ensure they are road worthy.