New research from Kwik Fit, the UK’s leading automotive servicing and repair company, reveals that over 13 million Brits will be enjoying both UK and foreign holidays this summer. The study found that 13.5 million people will split their summer holidays between domestic and international destinations, highlighting a growing trend among British holidaymakers.
According to the research, 4.5 million people will spend their main holiday in the UK and also take a trip abroad. In contrast, 8.9 million will have their primary holiday overseas but will also enjoy a break within the UK. With such extensive travel plans, cars remain the main mode of transport, with 16 million people relying on their vehicles for at least one of their holidays.
For those holidaying within the UK, an average journey will cover 367 miles, with 7% of travellers driving over 1,000 miles. Meanwhile, holidaymakers driving to overseas destinations will average 635 miles, and 8% will clock up more than 2,000 miles on foreign roads.
Despite the significant distances involved, many drivers neglect crucial vehicle checks before embarking on their journeys. The research indicates that over a third (35%) of drivers won’t check their tyre pressures, and less than half (45%) will examine their tyre tread. With the UK experiencing periods of intense rainfall, proper tyre maintenance is essential for safe driving.
Additionally, many drivers overlook vital fluid checks: 41% won’t top up their screenwash, 46% will skip checking their oil level, 62% will ignore coolant levels, and 67% won’t inspect their brake fluid. These oversights can lead to breakdowns and increased risks on the road.
Preparation for driving abroad also appears to be lacking. Only 37% of drivers thoroughly check the driving regulations for their destination country. Many rely on brief online searches (39%) or information from ferry or tunnel bookings (12%). Alarmingly, 12% of drivers believe they don’t need to check regulations at all.
Neglecting to understand and comply with foreign driving laws can result in hefty fines. For example, failing to display the correct emissions sticker in some European cities can attract fines up to €450, though typically it’s €68. Additionally, post-Brexit regulations require a UK sticker on vehicles and the presence of various items, such as a first aid kit and a hi-viz vest.
Roger Griggs, communications director at Kwik Fit, emphasises the importance of preparation: “Our research has shown that lots of people are combining overseas holidays with breaks in the UK this summer with many people driving significant distances, both in the UK and on foreign roads. It’s quite worrying to see just how many will be setting off without making the proper checks on their vehicle, or the rules of the road in their destination.”
He adds, “Like with many things in life, advance preparation can save a lot of hassle, and a few simple checks – especially tyres and fluids – can help prevent problems en route. And as well as car checks, making sure drivers know the latest rules for their journey is a sensible measure. The last thing drivers need is to be pulled over and fined for not displaying a sticker that costs only a few pounds or for having their hi-viz in the boot.”
For comprehensive advice on pre-travel car checks, visit kwik-fit.com where you can also book a free vehicle health check. For the latest updates, follow Kwik Fit on Twitter at @kwik_fit.
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