UK Ferry Tickets

I absolutely love the winter. I love seeing the frost covering the ground in the morning and feeling the cold on my cheeks when I head outside. I love Christmas and the festive cheer that it brings. There is one thing I hate about winter though  – driving! I cannot stand driving when it is cold, frosty or icy. It isn’t that I don’t feel in control but rather that I do not like the idea of slipping and sliding on the roads! However, those of you that are going on a self drive this winter are taking on a whole new ball game. I know the local area but you do not know the area you are travelling to nearly as well so it is important to prepare and plan.

No matter where you are going on a self drive, you need to consider a number of things before you go on holiday. For example, if you are hiring a car then you need to think about the vehicle you will be driving because you may be taking your life into your own hands. Hiring a car from a reputable provider will give you peace of mind but you should still check it from bonnet to boot to ensure that it is safe. Check the tread levels on the tires and whether they are fully inflated or not. Take it for a quick drive before signing the paperwork. Make sure that it has a current and relevant service history. If you have any reservations about the car at all then be sure to voice your concerns to the people at the rental place and ask for a change of vehicle. This may not always be possible but if you have strong objections then they are obliged to offer you a different car.

Whether you are hiring a car or not, you will need to be fully prepared for your self drive so you will need some essential equipment and one very specific phone number! Make sure that you have a recovery phone number that is relevant when you head to the Continent. You can get one via your hire car company or check with your insurance as to which company is reputable and go via them. You should also make sure that you have de-icer in your car, as well as water and safety equipment should your car break down. Check what equipment you will need from country to country because some are governed by law. For example, you may need a reflective jacket and a hazard triangle in your car. Take the time to check this out just in case.

Finally, before you go, be sure to check the weather and the history of the roads that you intend to travel on. This will prepare you for hazardous roads, poor weather conditions and any black spots that you might like to avoid. A little research can save you time, money and ultimately lives on the winter roads.

Guest Article by Louise Crowley

Thursday, December 18th, 2008