Three mistakes not to make before going on vacation

As summer approaches and the holidays loom, Auto-Moto reviews three mistakes not to make before hitting the road.

That’s it, after difficult months punctuated by confinements, an endless curfew and rather gloomy weather, summer is making its comeback. And who says sunny days says vacations, which are also beginning to draw closer, to our greatest pleasure. If some still hesitate, others have already planned everything: the dates, the place and even the activities. But before enjoying the beach or indulging in your passion for trekking, you must first hit the road to reach your resort for the next few days or weeks, or even months for the lucky ones. But do you think about preparing your trip well before leaving? Auto-Moto details three common mistakes you should not make before the big departure, in order to avoid some hassle on your vacation trip!

Forgetting to check the condition of your car

It seems obvious on paper, yet many of us neglect the essential checks before leaving. Rest assured, no need to rush to the nearest garage to do a complete check-up, even if this is obviously ideal to guarantee optimal safety. But without having to waste too much time, all you need to do is verify the correct one. operation of lights (position, dipped, main beam, turn signals and reversing lights), with the help of another person. Also remember to make sure the tires are inflated, and do not hesitate to correct them if necessary. It is also essential to check the levels of the various fluids, as well as the proper functioning of the wipers. Take this opportunity to make sure that the car seat of your child is securely fastened, as well as the bicycle carrier if you have one.

Leaving after work and overeating

Very often, the temptation is great to take off after a week of work, and thus take advantage of deserted roads to arrive faster. Except that going on vacation after a long day is not really a good idea, on the contrary. Because even if you don’t necessarily realize it, fatigue has built up, and hitting the road can be dangerous, even if you think you are in great shape. Indeed, according to a study conducted in the United States, driving after 18 hours of waking is equivalent to a blood alcohol level of 0.5 g / l. Worse still, 21 hours of wakefulness corresponds to a rate of 0.8 g / l. In order to avoid drowsiness while driving, try to leave after a good night’s sleep, and also avoid meals that are too heavy and too high in calories. More difficult to digest, they also cause significant fatigue. At the first signs, such as reduced attention or heavy eyelids, consider taking a break to take a few steps or have a cup of coffee.

Not planning your route

Holidays are also and above all the freedom to do what we want and to go where we want, without constraints, or almost. Because even if the good weather and the prospect of spending two weeks on the Côte d’Azur gives you wings, do not forget to anticipate a little and plan your route. Of course, nothing prevents you from taking certain liberties, and making detours on the road, in order to visit a small village or a museum. But the ideal remains to prepare your route a minimum before leaving, in order to better anticipate possible traffic jams and other difficulties. It will also save you from spending your time finding your way, which can lead to unnecessary stress. This advice is all the more useful when you travel with your children, who may then feel your nervousness and who may also get impatient if the trip takes too long for their liking.