Guardia Civil Spain warns summer drivers about the baggage mistake they should avoid

Usually, it happens quickly. The suitcases finally zip up, children wait at the front door, beach bags are heavier than expected and still someone tries to squeeze in one more rucksack. Many drivers will stop worrying about safety at this point and only think about fitting everything in.

Guardia Civil in Spain has warned that poorly packed luggage could be a danger to holidaymakers on road trips this summer. Unpacked luggage in the boot or suitcases left unsecured can become projectiles during a sudden stop or crash.

The warning is relevant, especially as millions of Spaniards prepare to drive to their summer vacations across Spain, and often pack cars to the roof with family members, camping trips, visits to rural homes, and beach excursions.

Why loose luggage is a risk on Spanish roads

Most drivers wear their seat belts. Fewer drivers think about how their luggage is secured.

The problem is that.

Guardia Civil reports that a suitcase could weigh 40 times its normal weight if it suddenly stops. A bag that is thrown forward from the back or boot can have a huge impact on passengers.

The officers urge drivers to put the heavier items in the bottom of their boot. Use any straps or fixing points on the vehicle.

It is not the goal to fill up the car perfectly like a puzzle. The goal is to ensure that the car will not move violently when the driver brakes hard.

Many drivers overlook the backseat belt trick

The Guardia Civil has a simple tip that may surprise some motorists. The Guardia Civil advises drivers to always keep their seat belts on, even if there is no one in the back seats.

Why? Why?

This takes only seconds and costs nothing. It could be a big difference when the car is heavily laden.

It is also important that drivers do not leave loose items in the car. Phones, tablets or chargers as well as bottles, toys or other small items can move about during a trip, distracting the driver and becoming dangerous when braking suddenly.

All items needed for the trip can be safely stored in the glove box or other closed storage spaces.

The same car that is fully loaded will not drive in the same manner

Many holidaymakers also make the mistake of assuming that their car will continue to behave in exactly the same way once they have filled it up.

This will not happen.

Heavy loaded vehicles need more space to brake and respond slower. They may also accelerate more slowly. This difference is most noticeable on motorways and mountain roads.

It is risky to overload the vehicle, even if it technically fits everything.

If you have a full boot, a roof box packed, and still bags on the passengers’ feet, then it is time to reconsider what you really need for your trip.

Drivers heading out this summer should be aware that their luggage doesn’t have a seatbelt, but they still need to keep it in control.

Few extra minutes spent properly packing your car could prevent an unpleasant experience on the road.