Family vacation by car: What should you pay attention to?

Going on holiday by car is a great way for families with children in particular to take a break from everyday life in a flexible and relatively inexpensive way . However, the journey often ends up not being as relaxing as originally thought.

However, there are a few valuable tips that can help to ensure that your next trip to your holiday by car doesn't turn into unnecessary stress. The following article shows what they are.

The check-up before the trip

Regardless of the season in which you are going on holiday, you should definitely carry out a comprehensive check-up of your vehicle before setting off. However, the check is generally a little more complex when travelling in winter or to wintry areas.

All fluids should be checked in any case. Mirrors and windows should also be cleaned carefully. Brake lights and lighting must be working properly. Of course, you should also check that there are enough safety vests, a first aid kit and a warning triangle. In addition, all important documents relating to the vehicle should be carried, the tires should have sufficient tread and the air pressure should be set correctly.

Know foreign traffic rules

Many holiday destinations by car are abroad. Different road rules apply in every country. If these are ignored, you can expect very high fines - even ignorance is no excuse.

It is therefore important to obtain comprehensive information in advance about what is and is not permitted in the holiday destination. Of course, you should also pay attention to the countries you will be traveling through on the way to your destination.

The right loading

The loading of the vehicle should also be planned carefully. The car should never be overloaded . Heavy objects in particular should be stowed in a non-slip and safe manner, but they should never impair the view to the rear. All important things should also be within easy reach while driving.

The load plays a crucial role in the safety of all passengers. If you are going on holiday in a station wagon, for example, it is a good idea to put up a partition between the trunk and the back seat , as this provides additional safety.

Selecting the arrival day

A lot of stress can be avoided if the arrival day is chosen carefully. The typical days on which most people go on holiday should therefore be avoided.

It is also important to be completely rested and relaxed before you set off on your journey. If your children are not yet of school age , you should generally avoid the holiday periods. It is also often worth setting off at night to avoid the worst traffic jams.

Pack enough provisions

Families are well advised to save money on expensive food at gas stations and rest stops and instead rely on their own tasty provisions . Both children and parents should drink enough during the journey , even if that means one or two more toilet breaks. It is of course sensible to store provisions so that they are always within reach .

The journey with the kids will also be much more pleasant if, in addition to provisions, there are also a few toys in the vehicle . During the journey, the family can also play guessing games together. These are often very effective in banishing boredom and the journey to your holiday will fly by - even in the car.