Key things to remember when travelling this Easter

Key things to remember when travelling this Easter

If you're going to be on the road with the family this Easter holiday, here are some things to remember. 

A happy coloured family enjoying a car ride
A happy coloured family enjoying a car ride/iStock/Prostock-Studio

The long weekend is here, and while it usually means many things, Easter makes it extra special. 

We’re here to help you prepare for your road trip – whether it's a sho't left or a long drive.

As you plan your route, we’ve put together a checklist to ensure you're ready to hit the road.

1. Safety check

Before you start, make sure your vehicle is road-trip ready. Check your tyres, ensuring they have the right air pressure based on your load. Don’t forget the spare tyre, and pack a puncture repair kit if you're travelling through remote areas.

It’s also a good idea to check your emergency supplies, such as your fire extinguisher (though not legally required, it's highly recommended) and emergency triangle.

Has your vehicle been serviced recently? Ensure it's in top condition for your trip. 

Make sure you have your insurance or road assistance contact details on hand, just in case.

2. Pack food 

Padkos is a must, no matter the length of your journey. There's something about being on the road that makes you feel peckish. 

Make sure to pack a good mix of snacks: try not to load up on junk food. Pack some healthy snacks too, and don’t forget plenty of water to stay hydrated.

3. Be prepared 

At some point, someone will likely get bored, especially the kids. Plan ahead with some fun, family-friendly activities like colouring, drawing, or playdough for younger ones. 

Get them involved by having them create the road trip playlist, or assign fun tasks along the way to keep them engaged.

4. Plan out your route

Make some notes on the routes you are taking to your destination and check for places you can stop at for toilet breaks and any cultural spots that would be interesting to experience. 

You can use your smartphone GPS to help you navigate your journey so you don't get lost or miss any must-see places.

5. Care for your health

Long trips or crowded vehicles can sometimes lead to car sickness, so be prepared. Make regular stops to give everyone a chance to stretch and breathe fresh air. Always have toilet paper and wet wipes on hand for emergencies.

For younger kids, placing a plaster over their belly button can help reduce the chances of motion sickness. 

And don’t forget to pack a first aid kit, along with any over-the-counter medications for pain or fever that might come in handy during the trip.

Tune in to the 'Workzone with Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp', weekdays from 09:00 – 12:00. Stream the show live here or download our mobile app here.

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Image courtesy of iStock

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