If you're concernbed about your vehicle's roadworthiness, AA Technical Centres around the country can give it a thorough examination. In any event, this is a good time for a service and tune-up, where you can get your workshop to pay special attention to safety items. As a minimum, always carry spare fan belts and radiator hoses and a spare ignition key. Before setting out on a long journey, especially with a loaded car, increase tyre pressures to manufacturer's spec, and don't forget to ensure there is sufficient pressure and tread on the spare and that you have a working jack and wheel brace. Planning your journey is a good idea on unfamiliar routes, and the AA offers a wide range of route maps, guide brochures and road reports.
Guide books are also very educational about the places and countryside one drives through.
When travelling, safety is paramount. Always use seatbelts and maintain at least a two-second following distance, which should be increased at night, on wet roads and in poor visibility. Preferably travel by day, when there are fewer fatal accidents. Beware of pedestrians, who make up the bulk of road fatalities. Be courteous and patient and don't rise to the bait of agressive drivers.