Carnival 2026 is just around the corner and, if you’re one of those who already have your bags (and superhero or pirate costume) in the trunk, your head is probably already on the beach or at the town parade. I understand perfectly well, it happens to all of us. But, after years of seeing cars lying on the shoulder just off Friday, let me tell you something: there’s nothing that lowers your spirits more than waiting for a tow truck while everyone else drives past you to the party.
So that this year the only surprise is how good your costume looks on you, I’ve prepared this express revision guide. It’s 10 minutes, I promise you, and it can save your bridge.
The "classics" that never fail (and that we tend to forget)
You don’t have to be a Formula 1 mechanic to check three or four basic things. Most road scares at this time of the year are due to carelessness that can be solved with a quick glance.
1. Oil: the lifeblood of your car
Seems obvious, doesn’t it? You’d be surprised how many people go out on the road with the level at the minimum. Pull the rod out, clean it, put it back in and make sure it is between the two marks. If you are going to drive a lot of kilometers with the car loaded, the engine will work harder than normal. Do not make him suffer.
2. Tires: Are they ready to dance?
In Carnival we usually load the car to the top (between luggage and costume accessories, the weight flies). Check the pressure when cold. If the car is very full, set the pressure recommended by the manufacturer for maximum load (usually on a sticker on the driver’s door). And please check for any unusual lumps or cuts.
You may also be interested in: Alone on the road at night: What a haulier recommends to avoid losing patience
Visibility: essential when traveling at night
During these holidays, a lot of driving is done at dusk or early in the morning to make the most of the time.
1. Lights and wiper levels
Ask someone to stand outside while you step on the brake and put on the turn signals. It’s a second. And don’t forget the windshield washer fluid; at this time of the year there is usually more dust or mud in some areas, and running out of water on the glass while the sun is shining in front of you is dangerous.
2. The last-minute "guest": the drum kit.
If your car has taken a little longer than usual to start these last few cold mornings, beware. The battery warns, but does not forgive. If it is more than four years old, give it a vote of no confidence and, if you can, have it looked at in a moment.
Are you carrying everything legal? (Watch out for fines)
We don’t want traffic officers to give you the scare of the day. Check that you are carrying:
- Reflective vests at hand (not at the bottom of the trunk under the suitcases).
- The V16 light with GPS (and make sure it has batteries, which we forget).
- Car papers in order.
A friendly tip: If you are going to dress up, don’t drive with masks, giant platforms or accessories that take away your mobility. Besides being dangerous, the fine will cost you more than the best costume of the party.
You may also be interested in: V16 lights: when they are mandatory, fines and common mistakes
In short, doing this review doesn’t take time, it gives you peace of mind. In the end, what we want is for you to arrive, have a great time and come back with a thousand photos and no workshop invoice.
Do you have a question about a strange noise your car makes before you leave? Leave us a comment below and we’ll give you a hand. And if for whatever reason you are not lucky and need professional assistance in Spain, please contact us at +34 930 49 29 40. We will be on call so you don’t have to worry about anything.
Happy Carnival 2026!
