What really goes on during the busiest day on UK roads?
Car seat confessions on the UK’s busiest driving day
As people geared up for UK road trips and adventures further afield, we took the opportunity to ask people what really goes on during these long journeys – from classic squabbles to service station essentials.
Problem solving in the passenger seat
Our research paints a picture of the family car as the ultimate ‘therapist’s couch’. Financial decisions (33%), family disagreements (29%), relationship issues (22%), house moves (21%) and university/career moves are among some of the big topics covered, all before they’ve pulled into the first services…
Why do conversations flow more easily in the car?
There’s just something about being in the car that helps conversations flow, even when the traffic doesn’t. But why is this? Brits said: there are no interruptions (48%), everyone is in one space for a period of time (46%), there are no phones or devices (39%) and there’s often no eye contact (32%).
How did they keep kids entertained?
For parents, the age-old challenge of keeping children entertained in the back seat is alive and well. A fifth (20%) still lean on phones and tablets to buy some peace, but old-fashioned methods are holding their own: 18% rely on sweets and snacks, 17% turn to travel games and 15% swear by spotting games – long live “I Spy”!
How about service stations?
Service stations are a major feature of the long drive on holiday. It’s a chance to fuel-up, stretch legs, stock up on tasty snacks and buy last minute holiday essentials. When asked what matters most while stopping at the services, Brits on the roads revealed their main priorities.
Clean toilets were rated a top priority by 63% of drivers, service stations that offer a good range of food and drink came in second with 49%, and good parking options ranked third (42%). A full range of fuels, customer service, family facilities and EV charging were among the other facilities drivers also appreciated most.
Proud to be part of the journey
With service stations clearly playing such a big role in summer getaways, we’re proud to be a part of that journey – providing comfort, snacks and fuel for everything from quick trips to cross-country adventures.
Niall Taylor, Senior Marketing Manager at Certas Energy, reflected on the research:
“It’s clear from the research that service stations are a big part of the summer holiday journey. That’s why at Gulf, we ensure that we offer the very best service station experience and pride ourselves on great customer service.”
Summer may nearly be over, but that doesn’t mean the adventures have to be. Plan your next trip around your nearest Gulf here.
