Driving over long distances can make some people feel anxious, especially those with less experience on the road. It can feel daunting being among a higher number than cars as usual, and at high speeds, it can seem like a crash is imminent at every moment.
Yet, things might not be as bad as they might seem – at the very least, they’re getting better. According to provisional data released Office for National Statistics, the number of UK road casualties reduced by 11% over the year 2020-21.
Even so, having this statistic in mind isn’t likely to do much to make drivers feel in charge behind the wheel. So, what will help? Keep reading for our best tips to feel confident driving long distances.
Ensure your car is up to scratch
A breakdown is the last thing you want on a long drive. While these are often unpredictable and nothing can guarantee that it won’t ever happen to you, you can at least make the chances as low as possible.
Pay special attention to the following signs:
- Less responsive brakes
- Dashboard warning signs
- Expensive repairs
It’s important for your peace of mind that you know that your car is safe to go on the road. If you no longer feel secure in this, it may be time for you to upgrade. While not everybody has the cash in reserve to facilitate this, there’s always the possibility that you could upgrade your vehicle using a loan once you’ve worked out your repayment plan.
Travel with a passenger
If you’re feeling nervous, then it might not be a good idea for you to travel alone. Instead, consider driving with someone you trust in the passenger seat – perhaps your partner, a family member or a close friend.
This isn’t just for emotional support, although that helps too. Rather, they can give you an extra set of eyes to watch out for accident signs, speed cameras and motorway exits, leaving you with more headspace behind the wheel.
Prepare your satnav beforehand
It might sound like a no-brainer, but believe it or not, many people don’t program their satnav until they’re well underway on their journey. This can lead to increased stress levels since you won’t know where you’re going.
However, for those that use their phones for navigation, that’s not all. Using a mobile phone while driving is now illegal as of March 2022, under virtually all circumstances. Anyone caught faces the possibility of a full driving ban. Avoid the anxiety of facing this penalty by preparing properly before you set off.
