While most drivers setting out on summer trips will have made sure the suntan lotion and sandwiches have been packed it is more than possible that less than half of all motorists will have loaded up with essentials for a breakdown.

These essential items include a first-aid kit to cope with any passenger problems en-route, along with a fully charged mobile telephone and some small change for a payphone if you can't get any network coverage!

To help cope with the heat motoring organisation Green Flag recommends drivers keep some soft drinks to hand. Snacks are also useful to keep enegry levels up on long journeys.

It is important to prepare for being stuck in a traffic jam - especially at peak hoiday times.

Plan your journey carefully and listen out for traffic alerts on your radio.

Keep games and other activities in the car to keep children entertained.

Some relaxing music on your CD player or radio will also make travelling more civilised, taking the stress out of the journey.

And don't forget to takle regular breaks - the latest recommendation is for drivers to take 15 minute breaks every two hours. One in five accidents on major roads are caused by tiredness.

Many drivers believe they can fight fatigue but the only real cure is sleep. The latest THINK! campaign says:

Don't start a long trip if you're already tired
Plan your journey to include a 15-minute break every two hours
If you feel drowsy find a safe place to stop (not the hard shoulder)
As an emergency measure drink two cups of coffee or a high-caffeine drink and have a rest for 10-15 minutes to allow time for the caffeine to kick in

But dangers don't just exist on the road. In the summertime you may have to leave your vehicle in a remote spot if your are going walking or simply enjoying the countryside or a day on the beach - but this advice applies even if you are just nipping to the shop.

Opportunist thieves will be on the look out for rich pickings from unattended cars - so before you leave your vehicle make sure all the windows (and sunroof if you have one) aree secure. Remove any valuables (including your sat nav) from inside the car and hide them away in the boot or glovebox.

Green Flag recommends that you invest in ant-theft devices, immobilisers and lockable petrol caps. You could also consider investing in a tracking device which enables the police to find your vehicle if it is stolen.

Breakdown checklist

To reduce the risks of a breakdown on the road, the RAC has prepared a ten-point guide to help you prevent this happening to your vehicle.

Make sure your vehicle is regularly serviced
Check the operation of all exterior lights regularly
Check wiper blades for wear or splitting
Check windscreen washers are adjusted correctly and fluid levels topped up
Ensure all dashboard warning lights operate correctly
Check oil and water levels regularly
Inspect your battery electrolyte level, topping up with distilled water if necessary
Make sure the fan belt is in good condition
Check the condition of all tyres, including the spare
Ensure you have a jack in the boot
Inspect car keys for wear and condition. The batteries in the alarm key fob will also require replacement at least twice a year