Thundering towards a hair-pin bend at more than 200mph may not be everyone's idea of a relaxing summer's drive, but for RAC-backed racing driver Darren Manning it's his career.

Yorkshire-born Darren is currently lying 10th in the Champ Car World Series, an international competition similar to Formula One, and is the only British driver involved.

Maintaining high speeds during races that might last for more than two hours requires not only stamina but also intense concentration.

Now that the summer holidays are upon us, millions of Britons will be taking to the roads on driving holidays either in the UK or abroad.

Darren has the following tips to help you keep your concentration on a long journey:

1. Travel with a passenger if you can. It helps to have someone to share the driving responsibilities and someone to talk to over the course of the trip.

Darren says: "I generally travel with my engineer when we drive to races or tests.

"This helps me stay alert and focused and another pair of eyes certainly helps when an unforeseen hazard pops up."

2. Plan breaks. Even a brief stop can help rejuvenate you and provide a much-needed stretch.

Pit stops are just as important for people travelling on long journeys in their cars as they are for drivers in the middle of a high speed race.

3. Keep yourself entertained. "I always travel with loads of CDs to listen to. Boredom can be fatal; if you allow your mind to wander your concentration on the road ahead may not be as sharp as it needs to be, particularly if you're travelling on a motorway at high speeds," warns Darren.

4. Plan your route. "I'm constantly going to places I've never been before, so I'm thankful that the team's travel coordinator puts together directions and local area maps for me," says Darren.

"I also try to travel in convoy with my crew guys, since they usually already know the way. Losing your way or missing a turn particularly in a foreign country will not only increase the length of your journey, but will also raise your stress levels."

5. Take refreshments. "Before I race, I always make sure I've had a good meal and have had time to fully digest it before getting in to the car," recommends Darren. "

There's nothing worse than sitting for long hours behind the wheel with an over-full or empty stomach. Sips lots of water or consider drinking a caffeine-based drink (like RAC124) to help keep you awake and alert."

6. Make sure you're rested. "I think this is the most important thing of all," warns Darren.

"Without a good night's sleep your concentration could be impaired and this could result in a mistake that could affect the rest of your life."