Spain is the number one destination in Europe for Brits going on holiday, and more and more are now going by car. It is a diverse country full of positive people, tasty food, good wine, culture, and amazing landscapes, which you don't get to appreciate on a beach holiday.
Obviously, the warm climate is the main attraction, but there are a great number of beautiful locations to visit by car on your way through the country, and great photo opportunities of historical objects, architectural masterpieces, amazing beaches, and impressive traditions and ‘fiestas’ which have made this country a magnet for travellers of all ages.
If you are one such travel seeker and are thinking of planning a road trip through the sunny Spanish roads, here is a check-list of necessities you need in your vehicle to make your voyage safe and pleasant.
A car is a convenient means of transportation, but situations can happen when we least expect it, and usually what we need isn’t in there. Often our cars are full of all kinds of unnecessary junk, stuffed in the glove compartment or boot, with no room for the vital things needed for a long trip.
Illustration source: www.onlinecarparts.co.uk
Accessories to take in case of unforeseen situations:
1) A first aid kit. One of these should always be in the car and easily accessible, especially on long trips. Of course, a first-aid kit is not a doctor, but it can help you provide first aid, or attend to minor injuries.
2) Warning Triangle. It is hoped that you won’t need to use it, or only have to on very rare occasions, but nevertheless, if you break down it is essential you have one in your vehicle.
Usually, they are collapsible and take up little space in the vehicle, but make sure you test it first as you don’t want it to take a long time to put together on the side of a busy road. It is also advisable to have a hi-vis vest in the boot just in case you break down at night, for your own safety.
3) A fire extinguisher. The decision should not be whether to have one in your car or not, but which type you should have. The people you buy one from should advise you on this so that you have the correct one for your journey through Spain.
4) Tools. A basic selection of tools is a good idea, as no-one is immune from road hooligans or simple bad luck. The main ones are a cylinder and spark plug wrench, but it is good if there are also pliers, screwdrivers, and a set of Allen keys.
5) A jack. It is better to choose a jack based on the weight of the car you are going in. Ones for cars don't take up a lot of space, but the bigger the vehicle the bigger jack you'll need, especially if you are going in a camper van for example.
6) A pump. This is useful in every car, and these days they are mostly electric. Make sure you have a cable to plug into the cigarette lighter for ease of use, as trying to find the battery to connect it is more difficult. However, you can still get mechanical foot pumps, which are the most reliable.
7) A spare wheel. It sounds obvious but many people overlook taking a spare wheel with them, with a wheel brace to change it if you have a puncture. If it hasn't been used for a long time, it is worth checking the air pressure in it to make sure it's inflated.
8) A tow rope. According to the rules of road traffic, you must have one of these in your vehicle which should be between four to six metres in length.
9) A torch. Its size may vary, it's up to you, but this is essential if you have a problem at night time, your mobile phone torch is not that useful, especially if you need to call for help.
10) A good cloth. All caring car owners should have one of these, but on road trips, it's essential for cleaning the car windows.
Now that you have everything you need all is left is to book your ferry and choose the route you want to take, oh, and make sure you enjoy yourself along the way.
