Essential EV Road Trip Hotels: UK Charging Guide 2024
Essential EV Road Trip Planning Tips for UK Travel
Planning an electric vehicle road trip across the UK requires a bit more forethought than traditional car journeys, but with the right preparation, it can be just as enjoyable and stress-free. Here's your comprehensive guide to making your EV adventure a success.
Plan Your Charging Stops Strategically
The key to a successful EV road trip is strategic charging planning. When booking accommodation, look for hotels with dedicated charging facilities. For example, the DoubleTree by Hilton Stoke on Trent offers rapid charging capabilities, making it an excellent overnight stop that can fully charge your vehicle while you rest.
Charging Speed Categories:
- Slow: 3-7kW (overnight charging)
- Fast: 7-22kW (4-8 hours)
- Rapid: 50kW+ (30-60 minutes)
- Ultra-rapid: 150kW+ (20-30 minutes)
Choose EV-Friendly Accommodation
Many UK hotels now offer EV charging facilities. For instance, in Cambridge, both the Holiday Inn Cambridge and the Premier Inn City Centre provide fast charging options. When booking, consider:
- On-site charging availability
- Charging speed offered
- Backup charging locations nearby
- Cost of charging (some hotels include it in the room rate)
Map Your Route Carefully
Primary Considerations:
- Plan stops every 150-200 miles (depending on your vehicle's range)
- Account for weather conditions affecting battery performance
- Include backup charging locations
- Consider elevation changes that may affect range
For example, if you're travelling from Cardiff to Cambridge, the Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre makes an excellent starting point with its fast charging facilities, and you can plan strategic stops along the way.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Relying on a Single Charging Network
Don't limit yourself to one charging provider. Different regions have varying network coverage. For instance, while the Premier Inn Blackburn South has on-site charging, it's wise to know about nearby alternatives.
2. Not Booking Charging-Equipped Hotels
Hotels like the Premier Inn Eastbourne Town Centre don't have on-site charging, so you'll need to plan accordingly. Always verify charging availability when booking.
3. Forgetting to Factor in Charging Time
Fast chargers at locations like the Premier Inn Leek Town Centre will take several hours for a full charge. Build this time into your itinerary.
Expert Recommendations
1. Download Essential Apps
- Zap-Map for charging point locations
- Your vehicle manufacturer's app
- Multiple charging network apps
2. Carry Emergency Equipment
- Portable charging cable
- Multiple charging network cards
- Power bank for mobile devices
3. Temperature Management
Remember that battery performance can vary significantly in extreme temperatures. Plan for longer charging times in cold weather.
Regional Considerations
Different regions offer varying charging infrastructure. For example:
- Cambridge area: Well-equipped with multiple hotels offering charging options
- Stoke-on-Trent: Good coverage with both the DoubleTree and Premier Inn offering charging
- Cardiff: City centre locations typically offer good charging accessibility
Planning Your Overnight Stays
When planning multiple-day trips, prioritise hotels with reliable charging options. The Holiday Inn Cambridge and DoubleTree Stoke on Trent represent good examples of accommodations catering to EV travellers, offering both comfortable stays and convenient charging solutions.
Conclusion
Successful EV road trips in the UK require careful planning but offer a rewarding and environmentally conscious way to travel. By choosing appropriate accommodation with charging facilities, mapping your route carefully, and being prepared for various scenarios, you can ensure a smooth journey.
Remember to book your EV-friendly accommodation through EVFriendlyStays to ensure you have access to verified charging facilities and detailed information about charging capabilities at each location. This way, you can focus on enjoying your journey while knowing your charging needs are taken care of.
Final Tips:
- Always have a backup charging plan
- Book hotels with verified charging facilities
- Check recent reviews for charging point reliability
- Consider membership in multiple charging networks
- Keep emergency contact numbers handy
With these guidelines in mind, you're well-prepared for your UK EV adventure. Happy charging and safe travels!