If you’re planning a road trip, chances are you’ve got several checklists on the go – one outlining car snacks while another lists the stops that you’re planning to make and the sites you want to see.
But while planning a road trip can be a lot of fun, there are some aspects of the planning process that need to be taken very seriously. One of the most important is checking that your vehicle is in safe working order, including preparing your tyres and checking both fuel and other fluid levels under the bonnet.
In this article, we’ve outlined the most important checks to carry out on your tyres, that will leave you road trip ready – no matter where you’re travelling to.
Selecting the Right Tyres for Your Road Trip
The first thing you need to do before a road trip of any length, is assess the suitability of your tyres for the climate you will be driving in and the terrain you will be navigating.
Some tyres are built for adventure driving and off-road travel, while others are designed for long journeys and highways…
Recommended Tyres for Hybrid Driving and Adventure
If you’re planning a road trip that covers mixed terrain driving and both road travel and off-road adventure, then you should be looking for All-Terrain tyres from premium brands like BF Goodrich, Continental and Bridgestone.
Among our top performing models, drivers particularly like the Continental TerrainContact A/T tyres, the BF Goodrich KO3 All-Terrain tyres, and the Falken Wildpeak tyres. These models blend versatility across different surfaces with a quiet and comfortable driving experience, durability and reliable traction.
Recommended Tyres for Long Distance Touring and Highways
If your road trip is largely reserved for highway driving and winding roads, the first thing to look at is the season you are driving in and whether you need all-season tyres or can opt instead for summer tyres.
Some of the most popular models for highway road trips are manufactured by leading brands like Pirelli and Michelin, bridging durability and handling with comfort and safety. The Pirelli P Zero range offers undeniable quality, while the Michelin Primacy LTX ranks highly for fuel efficiency as well as low noise and superior handling. The Continental PremiumContact range of tyres is another option noted for its balance of wet grip and dry control on smooth roads.
Driving in Winter?
If you’re planning a road trip during the winter months, it’s especially important to check the tyre regulations for your destination and familiarise yourself with the projected forecast and any climate changes.
Some countries require winter tyres for safety during the coldest months, and even some parts of the UK can require the stability of winter tyres if the temperature drops and you are navigating a particularly remote or hilly area. Preparation is key, so know the rules of your intended destination ahead of travel – and consider putting tyre chains in your car if you think there’s a chance of coming across surface snow or ice.
