The ultimate guide to road trip travel

As we prepare to end the year and make plans to visit loved ones or simply unwind with some fun and relaxation, being prepared is key to ensuring a smooth journey. From pre-holiday car maintenance to ensuring comfort on the road, we’ve outlined some essential steps to help you plan for a safe and enjoyable trip that meets everyone’s needs along the way.

Car trip essentials for travelling South Africa’s roads

Wherever you’re headed—whether across vast mountainous landscapes or down to the beach—vehicle maintenance is essential. If you’re unsure where to start, this checklist will guide you through the essentials so that you can travel with peace of mind. From exploring winding roads of South Africa’s most scenic routes to your annual family visit, every journey calls for the right preparation. 

Here's how to get the most out of your trip.

The car maintenance checklist 

The one thing about getting from place to place is to have a running vehicle that is reliable and in good condition, that’s why we’ve come up with a Car Maintenance checklist. From checking your tyre pressure and tread depth to oil and working spark plugs - if it’s time for replacements or rotations, now is the time to do so. 

Here are a few tips you can follow to ensure everything is covered for your road trip:

Inspect your tyres

No matter where you’re headed, terrains and road surfaces of any kind, need a good pair of tyres. Be sure to check the following:

Tyre Pressure:

• Check and maintain your car’s tyre pressure for optimal stability.
• Each car is different, so make sure you read over the manufacturer’s tyre pressure recommendation in your vehicle’s manual.

Tread Depth:

• Ensure your tread depth is adequate for traction, handling, and braking.
• The tread depth should never fall below the legal minimum of 1.6mm.

Tyre Rotation:

• Rotate your tyres if you notice excessive braking or hard acceleration.
• If you’re unsure, refer to your vehicle’s manual for the recommended mileage for tyre rotation.

Brake check

The condition of your brakes can pose a serious safety hazard on the road, so you’ll need to have them checked, and if need be, replaced before you go. Be attentive to any abnormalities while you drive, especially if you notice a reduction in your brake response time, which increases the risk of accidents. 

  Battery health 

Before your road trip, inspect the car battery for signs of ageing, corrosion or leaks. A weak battery should be replaced before a trip, avoiding unexpected breakdowns while on the move.

Top up your car’s fluids

Fluids like oil, coolant and your windscreen reservoir should be kept well in order, even if you’re driving normal commutes. The difference it makes to your journey is the most important. 

Engine oil

• First, inspect the level and quality of your oill, you can use a dipstick to check or you can drive to your nearest gas station and ask a petrol attendant to help you. 
• Check for leaks, consistency, and colour: you’ll notice if the oil is clean, dirty, or contains a milky appearance.

Coolant 

Proper coolant levels ensure your engine operates as it should. To avoid issues like overheating or leaks.

• Make sure your coolant levels are between the min and max lines of your coolant reservoir (when the car is cold, not after being driven). If it’s low, you can top it up with the correct coolant mixture (typically a 50/50 ratio of antifreeze and water). It's important to use the right type of coolant for your car’s make and model, as specified in the owner’s manual.
• Keeping your coolant in check is a simple yet crucial part of car maintenance that helps prevent expensive repairs and ensures your vehicle runs smoothly, especially during hot weather or long road trips. 

Windshield reservoir

This goes without saying: you'll always need backup support when it comes to optimising your vision. It’s simple and it’s important to keep it topped up, especially on long journeys. If you run out, you can always make a pit stop at your nearest gas station, where an attendant can assist you and you can get the much needed stretch and coffee break. 

Test your car lights

If you plan to spend several hours or days on the road, it’s imperative to check your lights. This includes your hazard lights, headlamps, and tail lights. Don’t leave it to chance, especially when many road surfaces are uneven or filled with potholes, and some areas may not have street lamps.

The road trip checklist 

Preparation doesn’t have to be time-consuming or tedious - when you know what you’re taking with you. Nevertheless, this road trip checklist is perfect for the last minute, chaotic packers. Whatever your travel plans are, whether you're with the kids or a few friends, you should bring these items to keep the entertainment and comfort going:

• Music playlist
• Non-perishable snacks and water
• Spare charging cable and portable power bank
• Audiobooks, e-books, or traditional books
• Device with downloaded movies or series 
• Cooler packed with drinks and sandwiches
• Neck pillow
• Travel mug
• Headphones
• Sunscreen

The must-have accessories for vehicle safety

You might bring all the fun essentials and have your car packed and ready, but do you have the essential safety accessories with you? This is what you should have in your car AT ALL TIMES!

• Complete first aid kit
• Sunglasses
• Phone power bank
• Jumper cables
• Reflector triangle
• Spare Tyre
• Tyre sealant 
• Tyre gauge or air pump
• Flashlight and batteries
• Emergency cash
• Umbrella
• Extra shoes and jacket
• Emergency contact numbers

If you find yourself in an emergency and you’re not a car expert or technician, avoid attempting to repair the car yourself. Instead, contact your insurance provider or the AA for assistance if you’ve had a breakdown.

Planning for the road ahead

Assuring your loved ones' safety with a plan will be far more economically savvy than doing so without one. For example, servicing your vehicle before your trip will save you from hearing the words, 'I told you so.' It's one thing that won’t keep you up at night. Remember, the longer you travel, the more upkeep your vehicle requires. South Africa boasts some of the best views, and it would be a shame if your car couldn’t get you there, especially if you need a good set of tyres. 

The good news is, any new driver who signs up to our MotorHappy Drive Benefits and Rewards Programme will receive 5% off new tyres and your next rental car! Should you be in the market for a new car motor plan, the additional rewards and discounts you receive from purchasing a product through MotorHappy go beyond the value of a new set of tyres.