Going on holiday is a great time to make memories with the family, but the fun can quickly disappear when experiencing car troubles. For your own safety, and to prevent unnecessary expenses that eats into your holiday budget, follow these tips to ensure a safe and memorable journey when going on holiday.

Our #1 concern – safety

If every driver on the road takes responsibility for safety we’ll have far less accidents on our country’s roads. Make a check-list of everything that needs to be done. You can even make a game of this with your kids before you leave the house. This way they’ll be more aware of vehicle and road safety and that’s a lesson they’re never too young to learn.

• Ensure that the driver is well-rested. Don’t drive when you’re tired. Rather have your partner take over or arrange for a stop-over halfway on your journey.
• Everyone in the car should wear their seatbelts.
• Lock the doors.
• Drive with your lights on – even during the day.
• Don’t drink/eat and drive – alcohol and driving should never be used in the same sentence and eating can cause your attention to waver. Sip on water, juice or coffee to keep you alert and hydrated during your journey.
• Stop often – pull over at a petrol station every two hours to stretch your legs, get some fresh air and to prepare you for the next stretch.
• Allow enough space between you and the car ahead of you.
• Don’t speed! Keep to the speed signs along the road.

Your car should be in tip-top shape

• Take your car for a service a month before your trip.
• Have your tyres and wheel alignment checked two weeks before your trip. As a final measure, also check your tyre pressure the day before the journey.
• Check your oil and water the day before your trip and fill your car’s tank.
• Make sure you have a spare tyre in the back and that it’s in a good condition and not flat.
• Ensure that your windows and side mirrors are clean and that your vision is in no way impaired.

Be prepared

• Programme your GPS with the information of your destination the night before.
• Have a map book ready just in case your GPS can’t find your final destination. All our confirmation letters also come with directions.
• Make sure you have your driver’s licence.
• Have enough cash on you for toll fees.
• Have a first-aid kit in your car and make sure it’s fully stocked.
• Have a copy of your confirmation letter with you as you’ll need this when checking in at your resort.

Here’s to happy and safe travels!