How to: Prepare for road trip
Factor in plenty of stops if you have a long road trip this summer. Photo: Djordje Petrovic
As Kiwis prepare for their Christmas holiday, many will be heading out of town to relax at holiday homes or campsites, but it’s important to plan for your road trip.
The latest AMI-Ipsos survey found that before starting out on a road trip 70 percent of respondents check their tyre pressure, 60 percent check their car’s water levels, 63 percent check oil levels and 53 percent map out their planned route. Only 5 percent admit they don’t do any checks on their car, or even plan their route.
AMI’s Executive General Manager of Distribution, Paula ter Brake says, “With so many of us taking a classic Kiwi road trip this summer, it’s important to make a plan for your trip so we can all stay safe on the road.
“Preparing for a long journey should start before you set off by making sure you get a good night’s sleep and that your car is in good working order,” says ter Brake.
“Start your road trip prep by getting your car serviced, checking your tyre pressure, topping up your engine oil and coolants and checking all brakes and indicator lights are working properly.
“Checking for any roadworks or closures, getting your car serviced, doing some general maintenance, and checking the availability of rest stops and service centres, or EV charging stations along your route is key to a safe and stress-free drive,” says ter Brake.
“You should also check road conditions before setting off and even consider delaying your trip if the forecast shows a significant weather event. If you do get stuck in bad driving conditions, adjust your driving, and take extra care to leave enough room between you and other drivers.
“Interestingly, 64 percent of those surveyed say they’d delay or change their travel plans due to bad weather, and 45 percent as a result of bad traffic, but only 39 percent of us actually check either of these before we set off.”
The AMI-Ipsos survey also found that over half of New Zealanders are planning road trips with a drive time of between two to five hours, and over a third of us have a long drive ahead of over six hours. Cue: “Are we there yet,” from the backseat passengers!
And while New Zealanders are keen to get behind the wheel, many might not have factored in appropriate break times – 33 percent were only planning to take one break during their road trip, and 9 percent were planning to take none at all.
“Having a road-trip plan in place helps make the journey safer – and more enjoyable – for everyone,” says ter Brake.
AMI’s tips for a safe road trip this summer:
1. Try to get a good night’s sleep the night before so you’re refreshed and alert for the drive
2. Make sure your vehicle is in tip-top shape for the trip ahead:
Refuel or charge your car before you set off and plan your refuelling and charging stops for a long trip – that goes for the car and the passengers
Ensure your car has been recently serviced
Check your tyres are pumped with the correct air pressure
Top up your engine oil and coolant to optimal levels. Don’t forget your windscreen fluid
Check the breaks and lights are working and that the car battery’s connection is secure
3. Have an emergency kit handy, including a spare tyre, jack, tyre lever, pump and any other tools that will come in handy in case of a breakdown, including a basic first aid kit
4. Pack essential supplies such as water and snacks, and in-car chargers
5. Ensure tamariki and pets are all safely restrained
6. Store luggage safely and securely
7. Choose the best travel route – sometimes the fastest isn’t the most enjoyable
8. Plan and take regular breaks, especially if you’re travelling for more than two hours
9. Check the weather conditions before setting off and plan accordingly.
