EV road trip checklist

1. A week before

• Plan each charging stop, plus a backup within range in case one is broken or busy.
• Download and log in to the charging apps for the networks on your route (Chargefox, Evie, NRMA, Tesla and others), and add a payment card.
• Install PlugShare to see recent check-ins and broken chargers.
• Book accommodation with charging if you can, or a power point near a parking spot.
• Check your roadside assistance covers EVs, including towing to a charger.

2. The night before

• Charge to 100% (it's fine for a road trip) and set the departure time to warm the battery.
• Pack the portable charging cable for power points, and an adapter if your car needs one.
• Check tyre pressures: low tyres cut your range.
• Take off roof racks or boxes you don't need: they can cut highway range a lot.
• Check the weather: headwinds, rain and cold all reduce range.

3. On the road

• Use the car's own route planner so the battery is warmed before fast charging.
• Check the charger status in the app before you commit to a stop.
• Arrive with at least 10–15% left, especially before long gaps between chargers.
• Charge to about 80% at fast chargers: charging slows down a lot above that.
• Slow down to stretch range if you're cutting it fine: 100 km/h uses noticeably less than 110.
• Move the car when it's charged so others can use the charger.

Notes