Safety tips for your next road trip this holiday season

You're all packed up and getting some last-minute snacks before you hit the long road but you have a worrying feeling you've forgotten to do something important. We put together a list of a few things you'll need to remember to ensure the safety of you and your loved ones on the road this festive season. 

Tyre check 

Check your car's tyres. Hotter temperatures mean hotter roads which can take its toll on your wheels. Have the pressure, rotation and alignment of all four tyres checked at your nearest dealership and don't forget to get the pressure checked on your spare tyre too. 

Windscreen wiper check 

Believe it or not, there will be patches on the road where you will have low visibility because of dirt, dust or summer rain. Remember to fill up your windscreen wash and to make sure that your wipers (both front and rear) are in good working order. 

Oil and water 

Your oil, water and coolant levels serve as your car's regulation system. Always make sure these are topped up because the hotter it gets, the faster the coolant levels drop which can lead to your car overheating. 

Leaving the country? 

Make sure you have all your documents in place if you plan on leaving the country. This includes your passport, accommodation arrangements, your car's registration documents as well as proof of insurance. Santam clients may request a letter which states that their car is insured (outside South African borders). Also remember to e-mail copies of your ID, passport and other documentation to yourself. 

Other items to bear in mind 

A well-stocked first-aid kit can help you deal with travel bugbears like small cuts and motion sickness while a torch might come in handy at night. You may want to consider a GPS navigation system and triangles for your car, too.

Did you know? 

Santam offers its personal policyholders six free SOS services which include roadside assistance, route assistance and home drive assistance. For more information, click here.