Vavista’s Ultimate Guide to Car Tyres

Posted on by Laura Lismore

Your tyres are the only part of your vehicle that touches the road, making them crucial for your car’s safety. Proper maintenance is essential to ensure safety for yourself and other road users.

Keep your tyre knowledge up to scratch with Vavista’s Ultimate Guide to Car Tyres…

Person checking car tyres

In 2023, there were 491 collisions in the UK where illegal, defective, or under-inflated tyres were a contributing factor1. This highlights the importance of regular tyre maintenance to keep you and other road users safe.

When Do I Need New Tyres?

There are a few signs to look out for when checking if you need new tyres. Look for cuts, tears, bulges, or other damage to the tyre walls. This could indicate that you need your tyres replaced immediately. All vehicles on UK roads are legally required to have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm. The easiest way to check this is using a 20 pence coin:

  • Insert a 20p coin into the main grooves of the tyre tread.
  • If the raised outer rim of the coin (engraved with “TWENTY PENCE”) is not visible, the tyre has sufficient tread depth.
  • Ensure you check at least three different spots on each tyre, as wear can vary across the surface.
  • If you don’t feel confident enough to decide this, you can get this checked for you at a local garage or tyre specialist.

What Tyres Do I Need for My Vehicle?

When changing a tyre, it’s now advised to replace the tyre on the same axle to maintain balance and handling of your car. Uneven grip on each side can lead to safety issues, especially in wet conditions. It also reduces wear and tear on the suspension and steering.

Before you take your car into a garage or tyre retailer, you’ll need to know what size of tyre you’re looking for. If you aren’t sure what size you need,  you can go onto the DVLA website and enter your vehicle’s registration; this will offer you a range of suitable tyre sizes.

However, it’s best to get an exact match by checking the number/letter combination printed on the sidewall of the tyre.

Man purchasing car tyres

How to Read Your Tyre Number

This number may look like a random selection of numbers and letters, but every part tells you some details about your tyre. A tyre sidewall marking like 205/55 R16 91V provides important tyre information:

  • 205: The tyre width in mm.
  • 55: Aspect ratio (55% of the tyre width). The aspect ratio is the height of the tyre’s sidewall shown as a percentage of the tyre’s width. For example, if a tyre has an aspect ratio of 55, the height of the tyre’s sidewall is 55% of the tyre’s width.
  • R: Radial construction (most common). Radial construction means that the tyre’s internal layers (plies) are arranged in a radial pattern. The plies run at a 90-degree angle to the direction of travel and across the tyre. This design provides flexibility in the sidewalls and a stronger grip on the road.
  • 16: Rim diameter in inches.
  • 91: Load rating (maximum weight the tyre can carry). The number 91 in tyre markings refers to the load index, which is a code corresponding to the tyre’s maximum weight-carrying capacity in kilograms. For example: A load index of 91 means the tyre can carry 615 kg per tyre when properly inflated.
  • V: Speed rating (maximum speed of 149 mph). The final letter of the tyre code gives a speed rating, which is the maximum speed that the tyre can handle while correctly inflated and under load. The letter displayed will vary, usually between Q and Y.

What is the difference between premium, mid-range and budget tyres?

Tyres come in three bands: premium, mid-range, or budget. Premium brands have their status due to their knowledge of tyres; you will find that the balance of the ride, handling, and road noise is better than other bands of tyres.

Mid-range tyres can offer more in terms of performance and wear than budget tyres but less than premium tyres. These are suitable for drivers with moderate annual mileage and that drive on both motorways and main roads.

Budget tyres are the least expensive type, but the lifespan of the tyre will not be as long. The quality of the rubber will also be lower than the premium tyres, which affects stopping distances too.

Set yourself a budget and ask the seller for the best tyre for you.

How Do I Check My Tyre Pressures?

Did you know that driving with tyres that are either underinflated or overinflated can negatively impact your braking distance, steering control, fuel efficiency, and the overall lifespan of your tyres? It is a good idea to check your tyre pressures every couple of weeks and especially before a long journey. You can do this by:

  1. Locate an Air Machine: Most fuel and service stations have air machines where you can check and inflate your tyre pressure. You can also buy your own machine to check your tyres at home.
  2. Find the Recommended Pressure: Each vehicle has a specific recommended tyre pressure, usually found on the inside of the driver’s door, petrol cap, or in your vehicle manual.
  3. Set the Air Machine: Adjust the air machine to the recommended tyre pressure.
  4. Attach the Air Pressure Gauge: Unscrew the valve caps on each tyre and firmly attach the air pressure gauge to the tyre valve. You should hear a small ‘hiss’ as it connects, and the machine will give you a reading.
  5. Adjust the Pressure: If the reading is lower than the recommended pressure, the machine will inflate your tyre to the correct level. If the reading is higher, release some air until it matches the recommended pressure.

Woman adding air to her car tyres

We hope this tyre guide has been helpful for you, and you can now feel more confident when purchasing and looking after your tyres.

For more information on safe driving, check out your knowledge with the ‘Ultimate UK Road Signs Test’.

Looking for Car Insurance? Get a quote today with Vavista!

[1] RoSPA Tyre Safety Factsheet

An update on our work with Ecologi…in numbers

Posted on by Vavista

At Vavista, we plant a tree on your behalf when you become a new customer, helping you make a positive impact on the planet. We didn’t just want to ‘talk the talk’; we wanted to ‘walk the walk.’ That’s why we’ve taken steps to become a Climate Action Workforce ourselves by teaming up with Ecologi.  Our collaboration with Ecologi helps us offset the individual carbon footprints of each Vavista employee.

Ecologi, the UK’s leading all-in-one climate platform, enables businesses to calculate their carbon footprint and support high-quality climate action projects. To date, Ecologi’s community of over 20,000 businesses has collectively prevented 3 million tonnes of CO2e emissions from entering our atmosphere. They do this by supporting verified carbon avoidance projects and funding climate initiatives such as reforestation and habitat restoration globally.

By partnering with Ecologi, so far, we have: 

Offset 4,808 tonnes of carbon!

Planting trees for carbon footprint

This is equivalent of 3,689 long-haul flights

Long haul flights for carbon footprint

or 14,424 metres2 of sea ice saved!

Sea ice for carbon footprint

or even 11,928,648 miles driven in a car

Driving miles

*Figures as at October 2024

Ecologi was created so businesses like Vavista can do our part to take on the climate crisis.

These nature-based carbon avoidance projects, help keep forests and plants safe. It also means animals have better habitats. Taking care of nature can help local people too, by giving them new ways to make a living.

At Vavista, we don’t only partner with Ecologi, we also partner with Eden: People + Planet who have already planted over 300 million native trees globally. With your support, we want to grow this number. That’s why we have made a pledge to plant a tree for every new customer. Vavista are very proud to contribute to projects that have made such a global difference.

Check out more of our Healthy Planet blogs here.

Disclaimer: Articles are for general information only – customers should always seek their own independent advice. Vavista is not affiliated with the organisations/businesses mentioned and does not recommend or endorse any of the included products or services. For more information, click here.

The Future of Wearable Tech: What’s Next for Health Tracking?

Posted on by Laura Lismore

Since its launch in the mid 2000’s, wearable technology has transformed the way we monitor our health and fitness.

In the UK, around 35% of the population is expected to own and use wearable devices in 2024 [1].

What is Wearable Technology?

Wearable technology means any electronic devices worn on the body, such as smartwatches, fitness trackers, or smart glasses. These gadgets monitor health stats, track activity and give notifications, making it easy to observe your well-being. ‘Wearables’ are becoming increasingly popular in fitness, healthcare, and everyday life because they offer useful, real-time information.

Wearable technology has come a long way since the early days of basic pedometers and heart rate monitors. Today, devices like the Apple Watch, Fitbit, Pixel and Garmin watches offer a wide range of features including sleep tracking, blood oxygen levels and daily activity.

Going forward, wearable technology will become more convenient, subtle, and accurate. In this blog, we’ll look at the future of wearable tech.

What’s Next in Wearable Technology?

As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see several exciting trends for wearable tech:

  • ‘No Needle’ Glucose Monitoring: A Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) is a sensor attached to the arm or tummy that tracks glucose levels. These display results on a smartphone or receiver.[1] This technology will allow diabetes patients to digitally monitor their blood sugar without painful finger pricks, making diabetes management more convenient and less painful.
  • Sleep Apnoea Detection: Sleep Apnoea monitoring is coming to the apple watch through a new metric that can detect potential breathing disturbances overnight. An app displays results analysing breathing disturbances of moderate to severe sleep apnoea.[2]
  • Personalised Health Recommendations: Wearable devices are becoming better at analysing data and providing personalised health recommendations. Using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, devices can offer tailored advice on diet, exercise, and sleep. This can help users achieve their health goals more effectively.
  • Integration with Healthcare Systems: Data collected by wearables can be shared with healthcare providers. Wearables could become essential tools for patient monitoring, letting healthcare providers keep track of patients’ vital signs and health metrics in real-time. This trend will be particularly beneficial for managing chronic conditions and providing care to patients in remote areas.

Woman wearing a smart ring

What are the newest wearable devices?

Here are the current smart devices are making waves in the health tracking space:

  • Apple Watch: Known for its robust health features, the Apple Watch continues to innovate with new sensors and capabilities. Rumours suggest that the upcoming Apple Watch X will include sensors for sleep apnea and blood pressure monitoring.
  • Whoop Strap: The Whoop Strap is a device that focuses on physical performance. It provides detailed insights into recovery, strain, and sleep, making it a favourite among fitness junkies and athletes.
  • Samsung Galaxy Watch 5: At the heart of the Watch is a BioActive Sensor, which is This can perform sleep tracking, measure your heart rate, blood pressure and blood oxygen. It can also perform ECG functions and has the ability to monitor your body’s water retention, fat percentage and bone density. It’s an all-round health check from your wrist.
  • The Oura Ring: One of the most innovative devices on market right now is the Oura Ring. Worn on your finger, it’s a discreet piece of wearable tech for those who want a device that you’ll forget you’re wearing. It monitors a range of things, including heart rate, body temperature, and sleep patterns, offering detailed insights into their overall health. Apps deliver your results and insights, but you do have to pay a monthly subscription fee.
  • Amazfit Helio Ring: For those looking for a budget-friendly option, the Amazfit Helio Ring offers similar health tracking to the Oura ring without the need for a subscription fee.

The future of wearable technology is promising. Developments are being made that will make health tracking more accurate, personalised, and integrated with our daily lives.

As we move forward, these technologies will continue to evolve, providing us with even more powerful tools to live healthier, more informed lives.

Mn sporting his wearable tech

Enjoyed reading this?  Check out more of our health and wellness blogs here.

Get a car insurance quote today!

[1] UK: wearable ownership by type 2024 | Statista
[2] UK Wearable Technology Market Size (mordorintelligence.com)
[1] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/type-1-diabetes/managing-blood-glucose-levels/continuous-glucose-monitoring-cgm-and-flash
[2] https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/i-went-hands-on-with-apple-watch-series-10-first-impressions-of-that-bigger-screen-slimmer-body/
Disclaimer: Articles are for general information only – customers should always seek their own independent advice. Vavista is not affiliated with the organisations/businesses mentioned and does not recommend or endorse any of the included products or services. For more information, click here.

9 Autumn Driving Safety Tips: Stay Safe on The Road

Posted on by Laura Lismore

As the leaves change colour and the air turns crisp, autumn brings its own set of driving challenges.

According to a recent study, road accidents increased by 23% in autumn months compared to summer months. The study also found 4,000 collisions last year were caused by slippery roads.[1]

This highlights the importance of being prepared for the challenges of autumn driving.

At Vavista, we want to make sure you stay safe on the roads this season. So here are 9 autumn driving safety tips to help you navigate the road with confidence.

  1. Prepare for Shorter Days

With daylight hours decreasing in autumn, you’ll find yourself driving in the dark more often. Make sure your headlights are clean and functioning properly. Use your headlights during dawn and dusk to increase visibility. Keep a torch and high visibility vest in your car in case you need to check anything when it’s dark outside.

  1. Get Ready for Glare

The sun sits lower in the sky during autumn, which can cause glare during your morning and evening commutes. If the roads are wet, the reflection of the light from the sun can be extremely intense. Keep a pair of sunglasses handy, prescription if you need them. Make sure your screen wash is topped up and clean your windscreen regularly to reduce glare.

Glare from the Sun on Autumnal Drive

  1. Check Your Tyres

As temperatures drop, so can tyre pressure. This can be dangerous, because under-inflated tyres could increase stopping distances by up to 10%. [2]

Regularly check your tyre pressure and tread depth to ensure optimal traction on wet and slippery roads. You can find out what your cars tyre pressure should be in your car manual, on a sticker inside your fuel cap, or using an online checker.

Consider switching to winter tyres if you live in an area prone to early snowfall. But note, they can’t be used all year round, as they underperform if the temperature is over 7 degrees Celsius.

  1. Expect Foggy Conditions

Foggy conditions are common in autumn. Use your fog lights if you have them, and always drive with low beams to avoid reflecting light back at you. Slow down and increase your following distance to give yourself more time to react.

  1. Anticipate Frosty Mornings

Morning frost can make roads slippy, especially on bridges and overpasses. Allow extra time for your commute and drive cautiously on frosty mornings. Keep an ice scraper in your car to clear your windscreen, mirrors and windows and make sure your air blowers are working properly.  Check out our blog for more tips on Safe Winter Weather Driving.

Deer running alongside of the road

  1. Watch for Wildlife

Autumn is a peak time for wildlife activity, especially deer. Be alert in rural areas and near wooded regions where deer and other wildlife are known to dart out. The highest-risk times for a deer jumping out are from dusk to midnight, and the hours shortly before and after the sun rises.[3]  Use high beams when appropriate to spot animals from a distance but always remember to dim them for oncoming traffic. The British Deer Society has some great tips on what to do if you encounter a deer.

  1. Stay Alert in School Zones

With schools back in full swing, be mindful of increased pedestrian traffic and school buses. Observe speed limits in school zones and be prepared to stop for children crossing the street.

Wet leaves on the road during autumn

  1. Watch Out for Wet Leaves

Fallen leaves can make the road slippery, especially when wet. They can also obscure road markings and settle in potholes. Remember to drive slowly through areas with heavy leaf fall to prevent skidding.

Be sure to maintain a safe stopping distance from the car in front of you in case you do need to brake suddenly. To calculate a safe stopping distance, follow the “two-second rule”, making sure there is a gap of two seconds between you and the car in front. You can estimate this by picking a fixed point and counting “one thousand and one, one thousand and two” as the car ahead passes it. In bad weather conditions you should double this to four seconds.

  1. Maintain Your Vehicle

Autumn is a great time for a vehicle check-up. Test your brakes, wipers, and heating system are in good working order. A well-maintained car is crucial for safe driving in any season.

Man carrying out maintenance on his car

By following these tips, you can enjoy the beauty of autumn while staying safe on the road. At Vavista, we’re committed to your safety and well-being. Drive safely and enjoy the season!

If you enjoyed this article, check out Top Tips to Master Driving and Stay Safe on the Road. 

Get your car insurance quote from us today!

[1] https://www.theaa.com/about-us/newsroom/insurance-news/crashes-rise-a-quarter-when-clocks-go-back
[2] Road accidents and safety statistics – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
[3] https://bds.org.uk/information-advice/issues-with-deer/advice-for-drivers/
Disclaimer: Articles are for general information only – customers should always seek their own independent advice. Vavista is not affiliated with the organisations/businesses mentioned and does not recommend or endorse any of the included products or services. For more information, click here.

Green Halloween: Eco-Friendly Costumes, decorations and treats

Posted on by Laura Lismore

This Halloween, more than 50% of the UK population plans to make a Halloween purchase, with Generation Z being the most enthusiastic with a whopping 87% planning to spend an average of £46 each [1].

Halloween can be a wasteful time of year. With single wear costumes, sweet wrappers and a constant flow of cheap decorations in the shops, it can be tempting to go throw away. This year let’s embrace sustainability with less consumerism and more DIY!

Join us in celebrating a Green Halloween with eco-friendly costumes, decorations and treats…

Sustainable Costume Ideas

DIY Halloween Costumes

DIY Costumes from Recycled Materials

Why buy when you can create something unique from what you already have?  People in the UK throw away approximately 7 million costumes every year.  This is the equivalent of 83 million plastic bottles in waste. [2].

An old sheet can become a spooky ghost, old bandages make a creepy mummy or cardboard can be crafted into a futuristic robot. Here are some ideas to inspire you.

Scour Second Hand Apps or Charity Shops

Explore your charity shop for second-hand costumes or pieces that can be repurposed. Car boot sales and online marketplaces like vinted or eBay are also great for picking up unwanted, nearly new costumes. It’s a budget-friendly and eco-conscious way to find your perfect Halloween look.

Organise a Costume Swap

Organise a costume swap with school friends or neighbours. It’s a fun way to refresh your Halloween wardrobe without buying new items, reducing waste and saving money.

Eco-Friendly Decorations

Eco-Friendly Halloween Decor

Make Natural Decorations

Decorate with pumpkins, ivy, leaves and other natural items. After Halloween, don’t toss your pumpkins! Repurpose them into tasty treats. Roast the seeds for a crunchy snack, and use the pumpkin flesh to make soup, pie, or bread. Simply roast the pumpkin, blend it into a puree, and use it in recipes or freeze for later. This way, you can reduce waste and enjoy seasonal flavours that are packed with nutrients and fibre.  Find more inspiration in our blog, 7 Ways You Can Reduce Your Food Waste.

Upcycled Decor

Get creative with upcycling! Turn old jars, cans, and bottles into lanterns or candle holders. Paint them in Halloween colours and add spooky designs for. Cut out ghost shapes from white card or bats from black card, attach them to string to make a garland. Use your existing fairy lights and arrange them into a pumpkin shape on the wall. With paints, card and Sellotape, you’ll be shocked at what you can come up with.

Buy Reusable Decorations

Invest in high-quality, reusable decorations that you can enjoy year after year. Avoid single-use plastic items and opt for durable materials like fabric, wood, and metal.

Guilt-Free Treats

Homemade Halloween Treats

Make Homemade Treats

Make your own Halloween treats using organic and locally sourced ingredients. Homemade biscuits, chocolate lollies, and cupcakes are delicious and eco-friendly alternatives to supermarket-bought sweets. It’s also a fun Halloween activity for you and the kids!

Choose Plastic-Free Packaging

If you’re handing out treats, choose plastic-free packaging. Use paper bags, small cardboard boxes, or reusable containers to reduce plastic waste.

Find Fair Trade and Organic Treats

Opt for fair trade and organic sweet treats to support ethical and sustainable practices. Brands such as Divine Chocolate, Tony’s Chocolonely, and Green & Black’s are companies who use ethical practices and delicious high-quality ingredients. Want to know more about fair trade practices and why they are important, check out our blog.

Handmade Halloween Decorations

This year, by choosing sustainable costumes, eco-friendly decorations, and home-made treats, you can enjoy a spooky and fun Halloween while protecting our planet.

Happy Green Halloween from Vavista!

Check out our blog for 5 Tips to Staying Healthy this Autumn.

Get a car insurance quote from us today!

[1] Halloween statistics 2023: How much will the UK spend? (finder.com)
[2] Why Halloween Waste is the Scariest Monster of Them All in 2024 (wastemanaged.co.uk)
Disclaimer: Articles are for general information only – customers should always seek their own independent advice. Vavista is not affiliated with the organisations/businesses mentioned and does not recommend or endorse any of the included products or services. For more information, click here.

10 Back-to-School Wellness Tips for Parents and Kids

Posted on by Laura Lismore

As summer comes to an end and the new school year approaches, it’s the perfect time to focus on family wellness. At Vavista, we know that making smart choices can lead to a healthier lifestyle, whether it’s through our car insurance or daily habits.

Check out our 10 Back-to-School Wellness Tips for Parents and Kids to start the next school year with energy and positivity.

1.    Establish a Consistent Routine

A structured routine can help children feel secure and reduce stress. Start by setting regular sleep and wake times, aiming for 8-10 hours of sleep per night for school-aged children. Bedtime routines may not only help improve sleep but can also help your child develop self-care habits and build a foundation for better memory, attention, and other cognitive skills.[1] For more benefits, read our blog, 5 Great Reasons To Sleep Well. If the Summer holidays have meant bedtime’s gone out the window, gradually adjust bedtimes a week before school to help ease the transition.

2.    Plan a Nutritional Breakfast

Breakfast is arguably the most important meal of the day, especially for growing children. A balanced breakfast that includes protein, whole grains, and fruits can help provide sustained energy and improve focus in school. If you’re stuck for ideas, here is a list of 25 different healthy and nutritious options. A recent study discovered that 11-year-old students who ate breakfast were twice as likely to achieve above-average test scores compared to their peers who skipped breakfast.[2]

3.    Make Healthy Snack Choices

Packing nutritious snacks for school means that kids will have energy throughout the day. Go with healthy options like fresh fruits, nuts, or yoghurt. Avoid sugary snacks and drinks, which can lead to tooth cavities, energy crashes and affect mood and concentration.

4.    Encourage Physical Activity

Regular exercise is vital for physical and mental health. Encourage kids to engage in sports, dance, or even a daily walk. Physical activity helps improve mood, relieve stress, and help with a better night’s sleep.[3] For parents, joining in on physical activities can be a fun way to bond and stay fit together. Park Runs are a great activity that the whole family can get involved in and they take place every Saturday up and down the UK. Why not check out our blog Top 5 family-friendly bike rides in the South West.

5.    Use Stress Management and Mindfulness

The start of a new school year can cause anxiety for both parents and kids. Teach your children simple stress management techniques that can help them navigate stressful situations and maintain a calm and focused mindset. Simple ideas for mindfulness for children could be:

  • Quietly using a colouring book
  • Deeply breathing in and out, counting for 5 seconds on each breath
  • Writing down 3 things a day you are grateful for or that went well that day
6.    Put Safety First

Safety should always be a top priority. Make sure your child knows the rules of the road if they walk or bike to school. For those driving, including parents, it’s crucial to practice safe driving habits. At Vavista, we’re committed to promoting road safety and protecting your family’s journey. Consider reviewing your car insurance policy to ensure it meets your family’s needs and provides adequate coverage.

7.    Maintain Open Communication

Maintain open lines of communication with your children. Encourage them to share their feelings and experiences about the new school year and ask them how their day was. This not only helps in identifying any potential issues early but can also strengthen your relationship.

8.    Organise and Plan Ahead

Organising school supplies, clothes, and lunch boxes the night before can make your mornings less chaotic. Create a family calendar to keep track of school events, extracurricular activities, and important dates. Planning ahead can help reduce last-minute stress and ensures everyone knows what to expect and prepare for.

9.    Limit Screen Time

With the increasing use of digital devices, it’s essential to set boundaries for screen time. Encourage children to spend time on outdoor activities, hobbies, and reading. Studies have indicated that children learn most effectively through interaction with their environment and participation in hands-on activities. By limiting screen time and promoting active learning experiences, parents can nurture a love of learning in their children.[4]

Additionally, limiting screen time can improve sleep quality and promote healthier habits.

10 . Lead by Example

Children often imitate their parents’ behaviours. By prioritising your own wellness, such as eating healthily, exercising, and managing stress, you set a positive example for your children to follow.

At Vavista, we understand that a healthy lifestyle is a key component of overall well-being. By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can help your family embrace a healthy start and create lasting habits that will benefit you. Here’s to a safe, healthy, and happy school year ahead!

Get a car insurance quote from Vavista today!

[1] https://www.sleepfoundation.org/children-and-sleep/bedtime-routine
[2] https://www.innerdrive.co.uk/blog/psychological-benefits-breakfast/
[3] https://www.gosh.nhs.uk/conditions-and-treatments/general-health-advice/leading-active-lifestyle/exercise-children-and-young-people/
[4] https://www.earlyadvantagedcc.com/early-advantage-parent-resources/the-importance-of-limiting-screen-time-for-children
Disclaimer: Articles are for general information only – customers should always seek their own independent advice. Vavista is not affiliated with the organisations/businesses mentioned and does not recommend or endorse any of the included products or services. For more information, click here.

Ultimate UK Road Signs Test

Posted on by Vavista

In the UK, there are hundreds of different road signs, each with its own meaning. While we learn these signs for the driving theory exam (the first part of the process to obtain a UK driving licence), many of us don’t encounter all of them regularly, making it easy to forget what they represent.

Although this might seem like a minor issue, understanding these signs is crucial for the safety of both you and your passengers. If you’re unsure about their meanings, you could find yourself in a dangerous situation. That’s why it’s important to regularly refresh your knowledge of UK road signs. So, no cheating, googling, or asking friends—challenge yourself and see how many you can correctly identify in our fun quiz!

Test your knowledge below:

1. What does this road sign indicate?

UK Road Sign

 

2. What does this road sign indicate?

UK Road Sign

 

3. What does this road sign indicate?

UK Road Sign

4. What does this road sign indicate?

UK Road Sign

 

5. What does this road sign indicate?

UK Road Sign

 

6. What does this road sign indicate?

UK Road Sign

 

7. What does this road sign indicate?

UK Road Sign

 

8. What does this road sign indicate?

UK Road Sign

 

9. What does this road sign indicate?

UK Road Sign

 

10. What does this road sign indicate?

UK Road Sign

 

 

Let us know your score over on our Vavista Facebook page!

Looking to brush up on UK road signs? Check out the UK Government Highway Code for all the details.

Remember, whether you’re a new driver or just refreshing your knowledge, your vehicle MUST be taxed, have a valid MOT, and be insured with at least Third Party coverage.

To find out if your vehicle is taxed and has a valid MOT, click here.

If you need car insurance, you’re in the right place.

Get your Car Insurance quote from Vavista today!

Disclaimer: Articles are for general information only – customers should always seek their own independent advice. Vavista is not affiliated with the organisations/businesses mentioned and does not recommend or endorse any of the included products or services. For more information, click here.

Zesty Quinoa and Avocado Salad

Posted on by Laura Lismore

At Vavista, we’re all about promoting a healthy lifestyle, and what better way to do that than with a delicious, summer-inspired meal?

This #MeatFreeMonday, try our Zesty Quinoa and Avocado Salad – perfect for those warm, sunny days!

Why Go Meat-Free?

Reducing meat consumption has numerous benefits, including:

  • Healthier Heart: Plant-based diets are linked to lower risks of heart disease.
  • Environmental Impact: Less meat means a smaller carbon footprint.
  • Cost-Effective: Plant-based meals can be more affordable.
Zesty Quinoa and Avocado Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
  • 200g quinoa, rinsed
  • 250ml water
  • 1 large avocado, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh coriander, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
  1. Cook the Quinoa: In a medium pot, bring the quinoa and water to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy. Let it cool.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the quinoa is cooling, prepare the avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
  3. Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, coriander, and mint.
  4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
  5. Combine: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  6. Serve: Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for an hour to let the flavours meld together.
Tips for a Perfect Salad:
  • Add Protein: Toss in some chickpeas or black beans for added protein.
  • Extra Crunch: Sprinkle with toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
  • Flavour Boost: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Join the Movement!

By participating in #MeatFreeMonday, you’re making a positive impact on your health and the environment. Share your creations with us on social media using the hashtag #MeatFreeMonday and tag @VavistaUK. We can’t wait to see your delicious dishes!

Enjoyed making this?  Check out more of our favourite recipes here.

4 Eco-Friendly DIY Projects

Posted on by Laura Lismore

In today’s world, reducing our carbon footprint is more important than ever. At Vavista, we’re committed to helping you live a more sustainable life, not just through our car insurance policies but through eco-friendly tips and tricks.

So we’ve put together some creative and practical DIY ideas to help you get started. Here are 4 Eco-Friendly DIY Projects…

1.     Create Your Own Compost Bin

Turning food scraps into nutrient-rich compost is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce waste in the home. You’ll also end up with compost you can use to grow your own plants and vegetables! An astounding 97% of British households have never used a compost heap to recycle their food waste. As a result, thousands of tons of uneaten food ends up in landfills or is incinerated annually [1].

Building a compost bin is a fun and rewarding DIY project. Here’s how you can make one:

Eco-Friendly DIY Compost Bin

Materials Needed: Wooden pallets, screws, hinges, and a drill.

Instructions: Arrange the wooden pallets into a square or rectangular shape, securing them together with screws and hinges to allow for easy access. Ensure the bin is well-ventilated by leaving gaps between the slats. Add a layer of straw or leaves at the bottom, then start adding kitchen scraps, garden waste, and coffee grounds. Turn the compost regularly to aerate it and speed up decomposition. Confused about what you can and can’t put in a compost pile? Here is a helpful guide.

Make sure you wear gloves and a dust mask when turning the compost, to protect against any health risks. Finally, covering your compost pile with an old carpet, cardboard or straw will help keep the heat in and make it break down quicker.

2.     Make Reusable Shopping Bags from Old Clothes or Fabric

Plastic bags are famously bad for the environment. The good news is, since the introduction of the plastic bag charge in 2015, there has been a 98% drop in single use bags in England [2].

If you have an old duvet cover or old clothes that are too damaged to take to the charity shop, save them from landfill by making your own reusable shopping bags. You’re not only cutting down on waste but also showcasing your unique style. Here’s how you can create your own:

DIY Eco-Friendly Reusable Shopping Bag

Materials Needed: Scrap fabric, scissors, thread, sewing machine or needle, pins, tape measure

Instructions: Cut two large squares of fabric for the bag and two smaller strips for the handles. Fold each handle strip in half lengthwise, sew along the open edge, turn inside out and press flat. Place the two large squares together, right sides facing in then sew along the sides and bottom, leaving the top open. Pin the handles to the inside of the bag’s top edges and sew securely in place. Fold the top edge of the bag down about 1 inch and sew a hem around the opening.

3.     Build a Rainwater Collection System

Collecting and reusing rainwater is a fantastic way to save water waste and reduce your water bills. You could save 40-50% on water bills by using a reserve tank for water needed to water plants and clean your car for example [3].

A rainwater collection system is an easy DIY project that can be customised to fit your needs. Here’s a basic guide:

DIY Eco-Friendly Rainwater Collection System

Materials Needed: A rain barrel or large container, a downspout diverter, a screen or mesh, and a spigot (a basic tap you can turn on and off).

Instructions: Position your rain barrel under a downspout. A downspout is a vertical pipe that takes water from the gutters on your house to a drain. A downspout diverter is a device that you connect to the downspout, to direct the water away from the drain and into your rain collector. Attach a screen to the top of the barrel to prevent insects and leaves from gathering in the container. Install a tap (spigot) near the bottom of the barrel for easy access to the collected water. Alternatively, for an even simpler solution, just place some buckets in your garden to collect rainwater and use this when it’s dry to water your garden or wash your car.

4.     Upcycle Old Furniture

Instead of throwing away old furniture, consider giving it a new life with a little creativity. Upcycling not only reduces waste but also provides a unique, personalised touch to your home. Here’s a basic guide to upcycling:

Woman upcycling furniture

Materials Needed: Sandpaper, paint or stain, brushes, and any additional hardware or fabric.

Instructions: Start by sanding down the old furniture to remove any existing finishes. Apply a fresh coat of paint or stain to give it a new look. You can also replace old handles, add a vinyl or wallpaper cover to cupboard fronts and reupholster chairs. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating something beautiful and functional from items that might otherwise end up in a landfill.

Remember, every step you take towards a more sustainable lifestyle is a step towards a better future. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your materials, and start making a difference today!

Stay tuned to our blog for more tips and tricks on living sustainably.

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[1] The UK does not compost enough – 97% don’t (businesswaste.co.uk)
[2] Supermarket plastic bag charge has led to 98% drop in use in England, data shows | Plastic bags | The Guardian
[3] Benefits of Rainwater Collection in the UK (renewableenergyhub.co.uk)
Disclaimer: Articles are for general information only – customers should always seek their own independent advice. Vavista is not affiliated with the organisations/businesses mentioned and does not recommend or endorse any of the included products or services. For more information, click here.

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