Planning a road trip? Practical tips to make it easier

Savings & efficiency

minutos

21/05/2025

Planning a road trip? Practical tips to make it easier

Savings & efficiency

Your trip is coming up and you want everything to go smoothly, right? Planning a road trip can be an exciting process, but it also calls for a careful eye for detail if you want to enjoy a comfortable, hassle-free journey. From checking your vehicle to choosing your route and packing your bags, every step plays a part in making the most of the open road.

Index

How to get your car ready for a long journey

Before setting off on any adventure, making sure your car is in top condition is essential. A timely check-up can spare you some very unwelcome surprises on the road and keep you safe throughout the trip.

Basic mechanical checks before you go

Take the time to go through these key points:

Tyres: Check the pressure and tread depth. Remember that correct tyre pressure improves grip and reduces fuel consumption.
Lights: Make sure all lights are working properly, including headlights, indicators, brake lights and fog lights. Good visibility is essential for seeing and being seen, especially in bad weather.
Fluids: Check the levels of oil, coolant, brake fluid and windscreen washer fluid, and top them up if needed. Engine oil, for example, is vital for lubrication, and the level should always sit between the minimum and maximum marks.
Brakes: Check the condition of the brake pads and discs. If you notice any unusual noises or vibrations when braking, take your car to a specialist garage. A well-functioning braking system is critical to your safety.
Battery: Make sure the battery is in good condition and sufficiently charged. A flat battery can leave you stranded at the worst possible moment.

Essential documents for travelling by car

Make sure you have all legally required documents in your vehicle. These papers prove that you are authorised to drive and that your vehicle is road-legal:

Driving licence: Check that it is valid and corresponds to the type of vehicle you will be driving.
Vehicle registration document: Identifies the vehicle and confirms it is registered in your name.
MOT certificate (ITV): Proves that the vehicle has passed its technical inspection and meets safety and emissions requirements. If your next inspection is coming up soon, consider booking it early to avoid any last-minute issues.
Proof of compulsory insurance: Confirms that your vehicle is insured and covered in the event of damage or an accident.

Bear in mind that the MiDGT app allows you to carry your driving licence and vehicle registration in digital format, with the same legal validity as the physical documents within Spain. It is also a good idea to enable notifications to stay on top of important alerts such as penalties or upcoming expiry dates.

Compulsory and recommended equipment

Beyond your documents, there are certain items your car must carry to ensure you can act in an emergency and stay compliant with the law:

High-visibility reflective vest: This must be within easy reach of the driver (not in the boot) and put on before stepping out of the vehicle if you need to stop on the road. It is compulsory, as it significantly increases your visibility and helps prevent accidents.
V16 hazard pre-warning light: Currently, it is compulsory to carry a non-connected V16 hazard pre-warning light. From 1 January 2026, the connected version (with geolocation) will become mandatory. This device, linked to DGT 3.0, alerts other drivers to your location, improving safety for everyone.
Spare tyre or puncture repair kit: Having a solution in place in case of a puncture is strongly recommended so you can continue your journey without delay. If your car does not have a spare tyre, it should include at least a puncture repair kit.
Jack and wheel-changing tools: Make sure these are in good working order and that you know how to use them if needed.

Planning your trip: routes, stops and timings

Once your car is ready, your documents are in order and you have all the necessary equipment, it is time to plan the journey itself. Good organisation will help you make the most of your time, avoid traffic jams and truly enjoy the experience.

How to choose the best route for your road trip

Use tools such as Google Maps or Waze to plan your route, taking into account real-time traffic conditions, service stations and rest areas along the way. You might also want to consider toll motorways as an alternative to slower secondary roads or routes with tricky bends.

Why strategic stops matter

Plan a break every two hours or every 200 kilometres to rest, stretch your legs and stave off fatigue. Use these stops to have a light snack, rehydrate and take in the scenery. Rest areas and service stations like those at Moeve are your best allies on the road, and knowing where they are in advance will help you save time and avoid unnecessary detours.

The best times to travel and avoid traffic

Try to steer clear of peak hours and the busiest travel days, such as Friday and Sunday evenings. If your schedule allows, travelling on weekdays or during off-peak hours is a smart move. Setting off early or driving at night can also be a great way to avoid congestion, though make sure you are well rested before getting behind the wheel.

How to calculate your fuel consumption for the trip

To estimate your fuel consumption, you need to know your car's average fuel economy and the distance you plan to cover. Use this formula: (litres consumed / kilometres driven) x 100.

If you want to get even more out of every tank, we recommend using Moeve fuels, specially formulated for optimal performance and engine care. And with Club Moeve gow, you can enjoy exclusive discounts and build up credit with every fill-up.

Tips for a comfortable and safe road trip

Comfort and safety are just as important as preparation when it comes to enjoying a smooth, stress-free journey.

How to stay focused behind the wheel

Get a good night's sleep before you travel: We have already mentioned this, and it really is non-negotiable. Aim for at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep to stay alert and keep fatigue at bay.
Avoid distractions such as your phone or unnecessary adjustments while driving: Let a passenger handle navigation, or use voice commands to control the GPS.
Listen to music or relaxing podcasts to stay alert: Music can help keep you awake, but avoid fast or jarring rhythms that may raise your stress levels.

What to pack to make the journey more enjoyable

Some things are not strictly essential, but they can make a real difference on a long drive:

Healthy snacks, water and entertainment for passengers: Pack fruit, nuts, energy bars and water to keep energy levels up and avoid dehydration.
Travel pillows and blankets for longer journeys: Make sure all passengers travel comfortably, especially children.

Tips for travelling with children or pets

Bring toys, tablets or books to keep children entertained: This helps prevent boredom and avoids distracting the driver.
Use approved carriers or harnesses for pets: Your pet's safety is just as important as your own.
Plan frequent stops to stretch legs and prevent restlessness: Both children and pets need regular movement and bathroom breaks.