Tips to have a successful road trip: Plan, pack, protect

South Africa offers great getaway places where one can escape the busy city life and relax. Thus, it is essential to take road trips with your loved ones occasionally for that much-needed escape.

However, for the road trip to be successful, proper planning is essential.

Siyakha Masiye, spokesperson at Miway Insurance, says choosing to spend hours in a car after a week of commuting may seem counterintuitive. However, there is something undeniably therapeutic about a road trip.

The psychology of the road trip

The rhythmic motion of the drive, the ever-changing scenery, and the absence of immediate pressures create a meditative experience that allows us to reset and recharge.

He notes that while road trips promise adventure, there could be unforeseen challenges along the way that can disrupt one’s plans. This can be vehicle issues, unexpected breakdowns, or accidents.

Which is why it is important to ensure the car you will be using for the road trip is in perfect condition before embarking on the journey.

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Checking your car before road trip

Masiye notes that most South Africans tend to keep their cars longer due to economic conditions, with only a select few retaining their vehicles for between five and ten years.

“Before setting off, a quick vehicle check can help prevent unnecessary setbacks. Checking tire pressure, assessing for oil levels, brake issues, and any failing lights should be as much a part of the journey preparation as planning your route and packing essentials.”

During holiday periods in the country, road traffic and related incidents experience a significant increase. He advises motorists to adhere to the speed limit, avoid distractions, and ensure they have roadside assistance coverage.

“Before setting off on your next adventure, take a moment to ensure your vehicle is road-trip ready, because a road trip is about freedom, and the right cover means nothing gets in the way of that.”

Safety checklist before setting off

Ernest North, co-founder of Naked Insurance, gives a safety checklist for motorists before taking their vehicle on holiday:

• Is the vehicle licensed, insured, roadworthy and in good condition?
• Are the tyres (including the spare) properly inflated?
• Are all lights and indicators working as they should? 
• Are connections and chains correctly and securely fastened?
• Is the caravan or trailer packed with proper weight distribution to avoid imbalance and swaying?
• Are gas cylinders in the caravan closed and secured?
• Can the vehicle be securely locked when unattended? 

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