If you’re new to electric vehicle (EV) ownership, the idea of setting off on a long journey can feel a bit intimidating. You’re not alone; it’s a common misconception that EVs can barely make it to the end of the street without needing a recharge. Under that impression, the thought of a road trip might sound out of the question.
Fortunately, this idea is no less than a myth. With over 82,000 public charging points now available across the UK, a 27% increase from just a year ago, heading off on a road trip in an electric vehicle is now easier than ever. That said, a little extra planning will go a long way to making sure you’re totally prepared before you set off.
Key Points:
- EV road trips are easier than ever now, there are over 82,000 public charging points available across the UK, a 27% increase from July 2024 to July 2025.
- Before you set off, try to charge smart and only charge up to 80%, pack the right cable and understand your vehicle’s range.
- Use an EV route planner to map out your charging stops. Many modern EVs have built-in planning systems or use trusted tools like ZapMap or Pod Point Network. Plan your stops so you’re aiming to top up before 20% to avoid range anxiety
- Know what chargers to expect at each stop-off as different service stations will have different options. Think about how long you’ll need to stop for to get enough charge, and check live availability to avoid delays.
Before you set off:
A successful EV road trip starts with some smart pre-departure planning. Here are some things to consider:
- Charge your battery, but charge smart: Only charging your battery to around 80% (not 100%) to extend battery life and improve health.
- Pack your charging cable: Make sure it’s compatible with the types of chargers you’ll be using; some rapid chargers have cables attached, but many standard units require your own.
- Know your range: Familiarise yourself with your EV’s estimated range to help you calculate how far you can travel on one charge, and therefore how many charging stops you’ll need along the way using an electric car charging route planner.
- Factor in charging time: Include estimated charging times into your overall travel plan to get realistic arrival times and manage expectations, especially if you’re on a schedule.
Planning your route
The average range of an electric vehicle in the UK is 235 miles, giving you a solid foundation for long-distance travel. However, locating and mapping out your charging stops along your route is essential, and this is where an EV route planner is really useful:
Electric car’s built-in route planner
Many modern EVs come equipped with smart route planners that have chargepoint data built into their navigation systems, in which case, your route will be calculated automatically with required charging stops and estimated wait times. If you’re lucky enough to have an EV with this functionality, make the most of it.
Third-party mapping solutions
If your EV doesn’t have an integrated route planner, third-party apps like ZapMap or Pod Point Network are great alternatives. These tools allow you to plan your route based on your car’s range, preferred charging networks and even live charger availability.
What to expect at charging stops:
Once your route is planned, it’s important to understand what to expect at each charging stop to make the most of your time on the road.
Evaluating charger availability
While the UK’s infrastructure is rapidly improving, charger availability can still be a concern during peak travel times. Some apps allow you to check live status updates to see how many chargers are free at a given location, but remember, availability can change quickly.
Charging speed and estimated wait time
Charging speed varies based on how much power your car can accept, and how much power the chargers can offer. The RAC suggests:
- Non-rapid charging speed (typically 6-12 hours): A slow charger could be rated as little as 3kW or 7kW, while up to 50kW is considered fast. Anything beyond that falls into the rapid category. A charge time of up to 12 hours makes slow charging unsuitable for anything other than a home, workplace or destination where you plan to stay overnight.
- Rapid charging speed (typically 30-60 minutes): Chargers that deliver power at between 50-100kW are known as rapid chargers. They're best used either when you have somewhere you can go to (such as a café or shopping centre) while the car is charging, or in a location where ultra-rapid chargers are unavailable.
- Ultra-rapid charging speed (typically 15-30 minutes): Ultra-rapid chargers deliver power at 100kW or more. Typically, these are rated at 150kW, 250kW or 350kW, but the speed they'll deliver depends on the car and environmental factors.
Extra tips for a smooth EV road trip
To make your EV adventure as seamless as possible, keep these extra tips in mind
Breakdown cover
Even the best-planned trips can’t predict a breakdown, so it’s a good idea to make sure you have an EV-compatible breakdown cover in place, just in case. esure is partnered with the RAC to offer breakdown cover as an optional extra that you can add to your policy; our Recovery level of cover provides Charge recovery.
Charging at your destination
Don’t forget to plan for the other end of the journey. If you’re staying overnight or for several days, check whether your accommodation has on-site EV charging or find out where the nearest public chargers are. It’s not just about getting there, it’s about getting back too.
Optimise your charging habits
Try to avoid rapid charging beyond 80%, as any more will take much longer. Aim to top up before dropping below 20%; this avoids range anxiety and ensures you’re not caught short looking for the next charge point under pressure.
Planning an EV road trip isn’t just possible, it can be a practical, enjoyable and fantastic way to embrace the future of travel. With a bit of forethought and the right tools, you’ll be ready to hit the road with confidence. Happy travels!
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