The Ultimate Holiday Car Check: Stress‑Free Travel with a Car Subscription

The holiday season is just around the corner, bringing with it the excitement of relaxing days away from the daily grind. But before you pack your bags and hit the road, make sure your car is fully prepared for the journey ahead.

With a car subscription, you already have a big advantage: you are driving a modern, reliable vehicle. Still, a thorough holiday check is essential to prevent breakdowns and ensure a safe arrival.

A well‑prepared start can make the difference between stressful unplanned stops and a smooth, enjoyable trip to your well‑deserved holiday. With a car subscription, you’ve already taken a big step toward worry‑free driving - here’s how to get your subscription car ready for the road.

Why a Holiday Car Check Is Essential

A thorough holiday check is crucial for several reasons:

• Safety first: Technical issues can lead not only to annoying breakdowns but, in the worst case, to dangerous situations on the road. On long trips or in remote areas, you want to rely on your car completely.

• Legal requirements: Many countries have different regulations than Switzerland. For example, reflective vests for all passengers or specific equipment may be mandatory.

• Comfort: A working air conditioning system or a reliable navigation system can turn a trip from stressful to enjoyable.

Even though your car subscription provides you with a modern, regularly serviced vehicle, you should still perform a check before a longer trip. Most subscriptions include routine maintenance, but preparing for your specific journey is up to you.

Holiday Car Checklist: What to Check Before Departure

Before heading off on vacation, check these important points:

Keep an Eye on Fluids

• Engine oil: Check the oil level with a cold engine on level ground. It should be between the minimum and maximum marks.

• Coolant: Ensure the level is between the marks on the reservoir. Only open the cooling system when the engine is cold.

• Windshield washer fluid: Fill with summer cleaning solution and insect remover if needed.

• Brake fluid: If it is below the minimum mark, this could indicate a problem - visit a professional workshop.

Check Tires and Brakes

• Tire pressure: Adjust according to the manufacturer’s instructions, especially with a full load. You can usually find these on the B‑pillar or inside the fuel cap.

• Tread depth: The legal minimum is 1.6 mm, but 3 mm is recommended for safety.

• Spare tire or repair kit: Ensure everything is present and functional.

• Brakes: Watch out for unusual noises or a spongy brake pedal - both are warning signs.

Don’t Forget Safety Equipment

• First aid kit: Check the expiration date.

• Warning triangle and reflective vests: In many countries, one vest per passenger is required.

• Spare bulbs and fuses: If included, make sure they are complete.

• Fire extinguisher: Required in some countries and always a good idea.

Check Comfort and Electronics

• Lighting: Test all lights, including indicators, brake lights, and fog lights.

• Battery: More relevant for older vehicles, usually not an issue with subscription cars.

• Air conditioning: Test it before the trip.

• Wiper blades: Check for wear and replace if needed.

Tech for the Road

• Navigation: Update maps and test the system.

• Phone holder and chargers: Ensure secure mounting and power supply.

• Dashcam: If you have one, check functionality and storage.

Documents You’ll Need

• Vehicle registration and driver’s license: Always take them with you.

• Insurance card: The green card is required in some non‑EU countries.

• Letter of authorization from the provider: Often needed for international travel - request it early.

Holiday Car Check Costs - What to Expect

A professional holiday check at a workshop in Switzerland costs between 50 and 150 CHF, depending on the scope.

What’s usually included in a car subscription:

• Regular maintenance according to manufacturer guidelines

• Seasonal tire service

• Warranty for technical defects

What you need to handle yourself:

• Refilling fluids (washer fluid, topping up oil if needed)

• Checking tire pressure

• Inspecting the lights

A self‑check is often enough, takes little time, and can be done at a gas station. For more complex checks or if you are unsure, visit a professional workshop - even with a subscription car.

Car Subscriptions on Holiday: What You Need to Know

When taking a subscription car on holiday, keep these points in mind:

Book the Right Car Early

Holiday season is peak time for car subscriptions. If you want a specific model, such as a spacious SUV or a fuel‑efficient estate car, reserve early. Cars with lots of storage and good travel comfort are especially popular.

Keep an Eye on the Mileage Limit

Most car subscriptions include a monthly mileage allowance. For longer trips, check:

• How many kilometers are included in your subscription?

• What is the cost of additional kilometers?

• Can you temporarily upgrade your mileage limit?

Tip: Allow for detours and spontaneous trips when calculating your mileage.

Clarify International Travel Rules

Not all car subscriptions automatically allow trips abroad. Confirm in advance:

• Which countries are permitted for travel?

• Do you need written authorization (letter of permission) from the provider?

• Is insurance coverage valid abroad?

• Are there limitations for roadside assistance abroad?

Roadside Assistance and Support

A major benefit of car subscriptions is that they usually include roadside assistance. Save all important numbers before traveling:

• Emergency number for your subscription provider

• Roadside assistance number

• Customer service contacts

Carefully document any existing damage when receiving the car to avoid disputes later.

Travel Comfort: Tips for a Stress‑Free Journey

Pack Smart for Maximum Comfort

• Use storage efficiently: Place heavy items at the bottom and lighter ones on top. Use organizers for more order.

• Bring a cooler: Especially helpful for trips with kids to keep drinks and snacks fresh.

• Sunshades: Useful for keeping the interior cooler for young passengers.

• Keep a first aid kit handy: Place it somewhere easily accessible.

Traveling with Kids and Pets

• Plan regular breaks: Take a movement break roughly every two hours.

• Entertainment: Audiobooks, games, and surprise packs keep kids entertained.

• Pets: Use a safety harness for dogs, provide enough water, and avoid setting the air conditioning too low.

Useful Travel Apps

• Navigation: Google Maps, Waze, HERE WeGo for live traffic info.

• Parking: EasyPark, Parku for finding parking in unfamiliar cities.

• Fuel: TankenApp, ADAC Fuel Prices for cheap gas stations.

• Rest stops: Apps like Toilet Finder or V‑Charge for clean rest areas.

Frequently Asked Questions About Holiday Car Checks

Do I need to perform the holiday check myself as a subscription user? Yes. While regular maintenance is covered by your subscription, checking tire pressure, fluids, and lights before a long trip is your responsibility.

Can I take my subscription car abroad? Most providers allow travel within Europe, but rules differ by country. For Eastern Europe or non‑EU countries, you often need special permission. Contact your provider at least two weeks before your trip.

What happens if I break down abroad? Most subscriptions include Europe‑wide roadside assistance. In the event of a breakdown, call your provider’s emergency number for instructions. Depending on the issue, the car will be repaired on‑site or towed. If repairs take longer, you may be entitled to a replacement vehicle.

Can I increase my mileage limit for the holiday month? Many providers let you temporarily increase your monthly mileage. This is often cheaper than paying for excess kilometers later. Check the terms and deadlines in advance.

Additional Tips for Your Holiday Trip

Timing Matters

Plan your departure strategically. Early mornings or late evenings are often less busy. Avoid the start and end of holiday periods when traffic is heaviest.

Watch the Weather

Check the forecast for your route and destination. Adjust your plans if storms, snow, or extreme heat are predicted. Pack accordingly, such as blankets for cold nights or extra sun protection for hot days.

Save Fuel on Long Trips

Even if fuel is included, driving economically pays off. Maintain a steady speed, use cruise control, and avoid aggressive driving.

Have a Contingency Plan

Know where the nearest hospitals and repair shops are along your route. Save important numbers offline in case you lose reception.

Keep Records

Log your mileage, fuel stops, and any repairs, especially if your trip includes business travel.

Safety First

Follow speed limits, wear your seatbelt, and don’t let other drivers pressure you. Arriving safely is more important than arriving quickly.

Secure Your Luggage

Place heavy items in the trunk close to the back seats. Secure loose objects with nets or straps to prevent injury in case of sudden stops.

Plan Fuel Stops

Refuel before crossing borders where prices may be higher. Use apps to find affordable stations and allow for unexpected detours.

Conclusion

A thorough holiday car check is key to a relaxed trip - even with a car subscription. The combination of a reliable, modern subscription vehicle and your careful preparation ensures maximum safety and comfort.

Plan your holiday check about a week before departure to leave time for adjustments if needed. With the right preparation, nothing stands in the way of a stress‑free start to your vacation. Safe travels!

Explore our cars on subscription and enjoy your stress-free trip!