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Preparing Your Vehicle for Holiday Travel

Prepare your vehicle, route, passengers, and emergency contacts before busy holiday travel periods.

6 min read

Quick answer

Prepare your vehicle, route, passengers, and emergency contacts before busy holiday travel periods.

Book maintenance early

Holiday travel periods are busy for workshops and tyre centres. Book checks early enough to fix problems before departure. Last-minute inspections often reveal issues when there is little time left to solve them.

Check tyres and load

Tyres carry more stress when the car is loaded with passengers and luggage. Inflate according to the vehicle's loaded recommendation, check tread depth, and make sure the spare wheel is ready.

Plan routes and breaks

Long delays, roadworks, weather, and congestion are common during holidays. Plan rest stops, fuel stops, and alternative routes. Share your route with someone you trust.

Prepare for passengers

Carry water, phone chargers, child restraints where needed, medication, and emergency contacts. A comfortable, calm car reduces distraction and fatigue.

Frequently asked questions

What should I check the day before a holiday trip?

Check tyre pressure, lights, fluid levels, wipers, fuel, emergency items, documents, and phone charging arrangements.

Should I drive overnight to avoid traffic?

Only if you are rested and comfortable with night driving. Fatigue and visibility risks can outweigh lighter traffic.

Need driver support?

Guides help you prepare, but a real roadside or driver support concern deserves direct follow-up. Contact SAEHA if you need help with membership, a safety incident, a breakdown, or an e-hailing support matter.