With everyone getting ready to set off for holidays, it is important to be prepared for the unexpected, especially considering there is an increase in vehicles travelling on the roads during this time. Safety and preparedness is the name of the game when travelling over the ‘silly’ season, especially if you are travelling long-distances by car.

Once you hit the road

• Look out for pedestrians suddenly crossing the road and be alert when approaching traffic lights for other motorists who skip them.
• Take regular breaks to counter fatigue, which could lead to an accident.

• Be careful of animals on the open road, especially on rural back roads and be aware of road signals and signs.
• If it is raining, turn your headlights and windscreen wipers on and remember that oil and petrol on the road could cause you to skid or slide out of control, so reduce your speed and try not to brake suddenly.

• When driving in fog, reduce your speed, keep to your side of the road and turn your headlights on low, or use fog lamps if they are fitted to your car. Use the road markings or the verge of the road as a guide, and look out for obstacles in the road.

• Don’t talk on your cell phone when driving – it is illegal and you could cause an accident.
• Keep your driver’s license and identity documents with you at all times
• Keep to the speed limit
• Be alert when approaching traffic lights and intersections
• Avoid fatigue and eyestrain by stopping frequently for breaks and to stretch
• Be cautious when driving alone, and avoid stopping in remote areas.

• Have numbers for roadside assistance and other emergencies close at hand or saved on your cell phone, so that you are well-prepared for any eventuality.

Travelling with Little Angels

Travelling with your children can be a fantastic way to bond with them, show them the world, and make memories to last a lifetime. However, because the little angels tend to get bored because of having to sit for a long time, they can also be a nightmare on a long journey. Here are a few tips to help you keep them occupied on your journey.
• Kiddies DVD players – trust me, well worth the investment. They can watch their favourite films over and over (just remember to fully charge the player before leaving!)

• Music works on kids - Before leaving home, make sure you have portable CD players with fresh batteries and a stockpile of their favourite CDs for the trip.
• Kiddies books on CD - These stories last for hours and will keep your child entertained for some time.
• Games to stimulate their imagination - Play games like ‘I Spy with My Eye’ or maybe license plate games, like trying to make a sentence with the letters on passing cars license plates.

• Snacks - ? Some snacks are good, however, try to stay away from sugary snacks or your kid will be bouncing off the seat when you’re still miles away from your destination.
• Make Frequent Stops” – This makes the trip more bearable for children. Getting out to stretch their legs and look at the scenery is sometimes all they need to get them through to the next stop and stop them saying "Are we there yet?”

• If your child tends to suffer from motion sickness and complains of dizziness or nausea, this can be helped by getting out of the car for a bit of fresh air. Alternatively, there are over the counter drugs available for treating motion sickness, which need to be taken before embarking on your journey.

In conclusion

"When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all your money. Then take half the clothes and twice the money.

Source: Internet