Planning a long trip by electric car and not sure where to start? Range, charging, planning, there are a few habits to pick up to set off with complete peace of mind. Here is the full checklist we have put together for you.
Key Takeaways
- Check your vehicle's charging capacity before you leave, real-world range and maximum charging power, to plan suitable charging stops.
- The Chargemap route planner automatically calculates your stops based on your EV model, your battery level and the networks available along your route.
- Always bring a Type 2 cable , essential for charging at all AC charge points along the way.
- Read Chargemap community reviews before each stop to choose the most reliable charge points and avoid unpleasant surprises.
- In hot weather, charge early in the morning or in the shade and pre-condition your cabin while the car is still plugged in.
Is your electric car made for a long holiday trip?
These days, a long trip by electric car is no longer a problem, thanks to an ever-growing range of high-performance EVs and a charging network that keeps expanding. Many EV models can now cover up to 600 kilometres without a charging stop. However, if your electric car has a small battery (< 50 kWh) and therefore a limited range, you may need to rethink your journey.
Beyond range, it is also important to know your EV's charging capacity before embarking on a long trip with several charging stops. Read our article on charging power and charging times for more information.
Your special EV holiday checklist
To help you set off in your electric car with complete peace of mind, we have put together a checklist of everything you need to remember. Let's get started.
☑️ Kit yourself out with the right charging cables
Rapid charging stations, found mainly on motorways, always have a tethered cable. However, to charge at all types of charge points — slow and fast — you will need to use your own cable. So make sure you bring at least one charging cable with you to keep your options open.
Among all the connector types available, the Type 2 connector is the European standard for AC (alternating current) charging and the one you will encounter most frequently on the road.
It can also prove useful to carry a domestic socket cable in the boot. This will further broaden your charging options during your holidays.
☑️ Get yourself a multi-network charging card
If you are planning a long trip by electric car and do not yet have a charging card, now is the right time to get one. Sorting this out in advance will free you from charging stress on the road and at your destination.
When choosing the best charging card for your needs, focus on two key criteria:
- A broad coverage of charge points, so you always have a back-up plan along your route and at your destination.
- A card compatible with the most powerful charging networks — particularly important if you are travelling on motorways.
The Chargemap Pass charging card gives you access to over 1,000,000 charge points across Europe. Charge with peace of mind on over 2,000 networks, including the Tesla Supercharger network, IONITY, Fastned, Allego and many more.
☑️ Plan your charging stops along your route
One of the most important steps to travelling stress-free by electric car is planning your route. The route planner in the Chargemap app lets you prepare a long EV journey in just a few minutes.
Enter your preferred charging networks, minimum battery level at stops, or the option to avoid toll roads in the settings. Based on these parameters, the Chargemap route planner suggests the most suitable charging stops for the fastest route.
If you want to change a stop, activate the "Stations" button and browse all available charge points along your route. You can also filter them to find the ones that best suit your needs (specific network, highest-rated stations, nearby amenities, etc.). Once you have selected a charge point, tap "Charge at this station". The Chargemap route planner will then recalculate the best route via that charging station.
All that is left to do is save your route so you can access it on the day you set off!
☑️ Locate charge points at your destination (hotels, campsites, shops, etc.)
Now that you have planned your long EV trip, it is time to look at the charge points available at your destination.
If you are staying at a hotel, B&B or campsite, there is a good chance that charging sockets or charge points are available on site. Check the accommodation's website or call them directly to find out.
The Chargemap app is also your best ally for instantly locating charge points that match your needs. Browse the map around your destination and use the Chargemap filters to refine your search (Chargemap Pass compatible, rapid charging, etc.).
☑️ Read the ratings and reviews posted by the Chargemap community
To choose the most reliable charge points, you can count on the Chargemap community! A rating and reporting system is in place to give the most accurate picture of the service quality of the charging networks listed on the Chargemap platform.
When browsing charge points, remember to check the "Reviews" tab, which brings together successful charges, ratings, reports and comments from other EV drivers.
⭐️ An overall rating is also assigned to each charging pool. Tap the score to access the detailed evaluation, covering 4 additional criteria such as equipment reliability and value for money. Thanks to feedback from the Chargemap community, you know what to expect and can make the best choice.
☑️ Check the weather forecast before your day of departure
Finally, check the weather forecast a week before setting off to keep an eye on temperatures. A long EV journey in the middle of a heatwave or in wintry conditions requires a few adjustments.
If you are travelling by electric car in hot weather this summer, here is a non-exhaustive list of tips for your long journey:
- Park and charge your EV in the shade wherever possible — underground car parks and shaded charge points are ideal.
- Plan your charging sessions for the early morning or overnight.
- Pre-condition the cabin while the car is still plugged in, so you do not draw on the battery at the start of your journey.
- Avoid aggressive driving and apply eco-driving principles to maximise your EV's range.
Download the Chargemap app and plan your charging stops with peace of mind.
Ready to hit the road? Plan your route now with the Chargemap route planner and set off with complete peace of mind. ⚡
We answer your questions
What range do you need for a long trip by electric car?
There is no minimum range requirement. The Chargemap route planner calculates your stops based on your actual range, whatever your model.
Can you do a long trip by electric car without a route planner?
It is possible, but risky. A route planner like Chargemap's keeps you safe from unpleasant surprises by calculating your stops in advance based on the charge points available along your route.
How long does a motorway charging stop take?
At a rapid charging station (150 kW and above), expect 20 to 30 minutes to go from 20% to 80% — just enough time for a coffee break.
