Planning a staycation? Here are three simple checks Hampshire drivers should make before heading for the sunshine

With increasing flight prices and ongoing delays at airports meaning foreign destinations are harder to get to, a record 77% of sun-seekers are choosing to embark on a summer staycation in 2026 instead*.

With road users looking to explore the best that the UK has to offer, a Hampshire Volvo car retailer is offering their top tips for drivers to ensure their cars are as ready for a holiday as they are.

Nick Hancock, from Cambridge Garage Havant on Bedhampton Road, said: “For any British holiday, there’s one essential detail that often gets overlooked – the car.

“It’s vital to check whether your car is fit for a long journey and ensure you have all the essentials to avoid any unpleasant surprises.”

1.     Check the condition of your car

“No matter how far you're travelling, it is a good idea to regularly check your car. It may seem like common sense, but make sure the car has plenty of fuel, the oil and coolant have been topped up recently, the tyres are safely inflated, and all the electrics are working.

“Ensure you check the car’s lights and replace any bulbs that aren’t working or seem dim. This is particularly important if you plan to set off early in the morning or late at night, when the visibility is reduced.

“One thing that is easily overlooked is checking the wheel nut key is stored safely in the car. Store it in a safe, accessible place – without it, even basic maintenance like changing a tyre can become difficult.”

2.    Test the battery

“Summer heat can be even tougher on car batteries than a winter frost. It’s wise to check your car battery, as temperature changes – especially in the summer – it can significantly affect its performance. Hot weather can accelerate battery degradation by trapping heat under the bonnet, causing the liquid inside to evaporate more quickly and potentially leading to a flat battery.

“Car batteries typically last between three and five years. To avoid a breakdown, it’s essential to check your battery’s condition, especially if your car is a few years old and regularly exposed to intense summer heat as it has had to work much harder over a prolonged period of time.

3.    Plan the journey and ensure your technology is ready

“For electric vehicle drivers, technology can play an even bigger role in journey planning. Checking charging locations in advance and using apps to monitor charger availability can help avoid unnecessary detours and keep your trip running smoothly.

“If you’re visiting a destination that is unfamiliar to you, make sure your car’s sat-nav system has recently been updated to avoid missing new road layouts. If you use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, make sure any charging cables are packed and your route has been downloaded in case you encounter areas with limited mobile signal.
“If you rely on a smartphone for navigation, check that your apps are fully updated and that voice guidance is enabled, reducing the need to look at the screen while driving.”

“For those who would like to cover all their bases, locals in Hampshire can book in for a health check with us before their staycation.”

For further information about Cambridge Garage Havant or to book a health check, visit volvocars.com/Havant or call 023 9349 2422.

*Statistics from Visit Britain 2026