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How to prep your supercar for a road trip
By Harry Poulsona | 11 July 2025 | Cars & Yachts, Motoring, Travel
Planning to take your supercar on a road trip? Here are a few things to keep in mind to get the most out of it on your vacation
If you’re planning a road trip, whether it’s across the UK or down to Europe, your car and its condition matter a lot. Whether it’s a supercar like Ferrari, a Porsche, or your McLaren, even the most powerful machines on four wheels can fall short if they’re not road-trip ready.
Most drivers focus on destinations and playlists. But if your car isn’t prepped, the trip could end before it even begins. And unlike your everyday commute, long-distance driving in a high-performance vehicle requires an extra level of attention.
So, before you hit the road, here’s how to make sure your supercar is ready for a road trip.
Start with Maintenance
Luxury cars are built for performance, but only if everything is in top shape. Book a service before your trip, preferably at a dealership or a specialist that understands your car’s specific needs.
Make sure to look into:
- Oil quality
- Brake pads
- Tire pressure and tread depth
- Battery health
For models with more mileage, you might also want to have the spark plugs, timing belt, and suspension checked.
If any of those parts need replacing, high-quality used car parts can be a great alternative – especially for non-cosmetic and internal components. Just make sure you’re buying from a reliable seller.
Think About Fuel Efficiency
Sure, better mileage is great, but trying to hyper-mile on a scenic road trip takes the fun out of it. So, before you hop in your supercar and start the engine, get a decent tune-up and clean your air filter first.
Also, if you’re driving an older model, you might want to carry a spare fuel filter or even a wiper blade. And again, used ones work fine if they’re in good condition.
Prioritise Comfort
Supercars are known for their handling, but not always their lumbar support. So, if your seats lean a bit on the uncomfortable side for long drives, you might want to make subtle upgrades.
A few simple additions go a long way:
- Soft cushions
- A sunshade
- Portable phone mount
Also, don’t underestimate the power of a clean interior. Empty your boot, vacuum your seats, and maybe even wipe down that steering wheel.
Keep a Handy Kit
Even Bugattis can blow a fuse. So, it pays to always be ready.
Your glovebox should never be empty. Even if you’re not the type to stress about emergencies, having a few of these on hand is a smart move.
Those things can include:
- Torch
- Tire inflator
- First-aid kit
- Extra oil or coolant
Sure, you may never need them, but having these on hand is a small price for peace of mind.
Plan Things Beforehand
Download offline maps. Signals can disappear in the worst places. Also, double-check your charger cables and power bank before you leave. Nothing ruins a fun road trip like a dead phone.
Make sure that:
- Your insurance is updated
- Registration is in the car
- Breakdown cover is included
And don’t forget to plan breaks – both for you and your engine. Supercars are heat machines, and regular stops allow the engine and brakes to cool naturally. Doing so also preserves long-term performance.