Are you planning a summer holiday by car or camper/caravan? The idea of travelling freely, discovering new places and relaxing on beautiful beaches is tempting. However, have you thought about how to secure your vehicle and avoid any inconveniences during your trip? How to make sure your holiday goes smoothly and without a hitch? In this article, we offer you some useful tips to help you protect your car and enjoy a carefree holiday.
Before you go: Preparation and prevention
- Vehicle inspection – Before you go on holiday, it’s essential that your car passes a full roadworthiness test. Check the brakes, tyres, lights and engine oil. If you have a camper, be sure to check its general condition, including electronic systems.
- Insurance and roadside assistance – Make sure you have valid compulsory third party insurance (MTPL) and breakdown cover. Insurance should also cover theft and vandalism. Also check what assistance services your insurance company offers and keep emergency contact information with you.
- Travel documents and maps – In addition to traditional paper maps, it’s a good idea to have an up-to-date GPS navigation system. Don’t forget to take all the necessary documents.
On the roads: Safe parking and protection
- Safe parking – Choose safe parking spaces, ideally secure car parks or garages. Avoid parking in abandoned spaces or on unlit streets. If you are travelling by camper, prefer campsites with a good reputation and safety precautions.
- Visible security – Use visible security features such as security window film. If your vehicle is protected by a security system, don’t forget the signs that symbolise this (e.g. stickers). Thieves often choose easier targets, so if they see that your car is well protected, they will probably choose another.
- Don’t leave valuables in the car – Never leave valuables in plain sight in your vehicle. Even if the car is locked, thieves can break a window and steal your belongings. If you must leave something in the car, hide it in the boot or under the seats.
During holiday: Car care and safety
- Vehicle monitoring – Modern security systems, such as Pandora Alarm, allow you to monitor your vehicle in real time using an app on your smartphone. These systems will instantly alert you to burglary attempts or unauthorized vehicle movement.
- Social networks and privacy – Be careful when sharing information about your holiday on social networks. Thieves can use this information to know when you’re not home or when your vehicle is left unattended.
- Local customs and laws – Find out about local customs and laws in the countries you plan to visit. For example, some countries require you to pay for motorway use through electronic vignettes or toll gates. Find out before you travel where and how to pay these fees to avoid fines and inconvenience.
Enjoy a worry-free holiday
A safe car or camper holiday starts with good preparation and caution during the journey. Regular MOTs, the right insurance, being careful when parking and using modern security systems such as Pandora Alarm can save you a lot of stress and hassle. With these simple precautions, you can enjoy a peaceful and carefree holiday that you’ll remember fondly.
Not only does the Pandora alarm system offer the highest level of security, but it also offers convenience features like remote climate control that you’ll appreciate in warm destinations. In case you want to learn more about the Pandora system and its features, you can find all the information you need here.
