With the Easter break approaching, many South Africans will be thinking of hitting the open road. But for a perfect Easter road trip to happen, planning is required to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Luckily, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide of must-have power-packed items and tips to make your Easter road trip an unforgettable experience.
But before anything, safety.
Vehicle Maintenance and Safety
According to The Road Traffic Management Corporation, there were 252 fatal car accidents around South Africa last Easter. Driving over the break does come with its risks so extra care should be taken.
One of the ways to mitigate these risks is to ensure you complete a proper vehicle check.
Before embarking on your journey, make sure to check:
- Oil
- Brake fluid
- Tyre pressure
- All other essential fluids.
Don’t forget to inspect the brakes, test your battery, and replace worn-out tyres. Always carry a spare tyre, a jack, a medical kit, and jumper cables for unexpected situations.
Now that we’ve done the most important checks, let’s discuss the route and itinerary.
Plan a Travel Itinerary
As the expression goes, “Not planning is planning to fail!” Always make sure that you do some research about your route.
It is generally recommended that you take a break of 30 minutes for every two hours of driving.
Bearing this in mind, plan your route in advance and have a rough itinerary to make the most of your time.
Identify rest stops, scenic points, and potential attractions along the way. And remember that Google Maps is here to help, with user ratings for each stop-off.
Now, let’s talk about what to bring along.
Packing the Essentials
Often, packing for a trip is left until the last moment, but for this Easter, plan what you’re taking along.
By packing smart, you will automatically be able to deal with a situation if it arises. Essentials include items like:
- Suitable clothing for the weather,
- Toiletries,
- Medications,
- Copies of important documents such as an ID or medical aid card.
And in the modern world, don’t forget chargers for your devices, a first aid kit, and a flashlight.
Now that you’ve packed efficiently, let’s talk about snacks.
Snacks and Refreshments
Always stock up on enough snacks and drinks to satisfy everyone during the journey. Consider a mix of healthy options like granola bars, nuts, and fruits, as well as some indulgent treats.
A camping cooler box is a win, as it will keep your beverages cold throughout the trip. While most of South Africa’s highways have petrol service stations, some routes off the beaten track might not offer such options.
As mentioned, plan. If you are traveling with little ones, you must also bring along some entertainment for them.
Entertainment for the Road
Long trips can be very tiring for younger family members, and there are plenty of games you can play as a group. To also help keep boredom at bay, prepare a playlist of everyone’s favorite tunes.
Make sure to upload some audiobooks and podcasts to listen to. If desired, games on mobile devices can also help entertain the youngsters.
If you’re traveling with kids and you prefer to go without devices, bring a colouring book or travel-sized board games.
And nothing drags out a road trip more than being uncomfortable.
Bring Comfortable Essentials
Any long trip on the road can be tiring, so make sure to prioritise your comfort. Remember to pack travel pillows and blankets for a cozy nap during breaks.
While inside the vehicle, it is important to bring some sunglasses and sunscreen, as you can get sun damaged, even through tinted windows.
Making sure that you protect yourself and your family from the sun will mean that you arrive at your destination in one piece, without any drama.
Wearing comfortable clothing and shoes is always best too.
You can also pack some wet wipes and hand sanitizer to keep everyone feeling fresh.
Enjoy Your Easter Break!
With the correct planning, you’re well on your way to creating cherished memories with your loved ones.
Whether you’re embarking on a scenic drive, exploring new destinations, or enjoying quality time together, these tips will help ensure a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable journey.
So, buckle up, hit the road, and embrace the adventure that awaits you this Easter! And if you have any battery requirements, let us know.