As the festive season winds down and its time for holidaymakers to pack their bags, check out of their accommodation and head back home, the return trip seldom has the same excitement as it did when you were heading to the holiday destination. But, it’s still an opportunity to create moments together as a family. While you might have to navigate traffic, drunk and exhausted drivers and also brave the summer heat with irritable kids in the backseat, you can still make your return trip fun and memorable.

Here are practical tips to have a safe and enjoyable road trip from your holiday, especially if you are travelling with little ones – from infants to preteens – content and ensure a smooth journey home.

1. Start Early or Travel Late
Beat the heat and traffic by hitting the road early in the morning or late in the evening. Cooler temperatures and calmer roads can make the journey more bearable for everyone.

2.Plan Frequent Breaks
Schedule stops every two to three hours to stretch legs, change nappies, and let kids burn off some energy. Look for petrol stations with clean facilities or rest stops with play areas to make breaks enjoyable.

3. Stay Hydrated
Pack plenty of water for the whole family. Reusable bottles with straw lids are especially handy for kids. Avoid sugary drinks, which can lead to energy crashes and more bathroom stops.

4.Pack Easy, Healthy Snacks
Prepare a variety of finger foods like sliced fruit, crackers, cheese, and biltong. For older kids, let them pick a few snacks before the trip to keep them engaged.

6.Safety First
Double-check car seats and seat belts for proper installation and fit. Be mindful of the potential for flash floods, especially in low-lying areas. Use apps like Waze or Google Maps to monitor road conditions and avoid flooded routes.

7.Entertainment on Hand
Long stretches of road can be challenging for little ones. Pack age-appropriate activities: board books and soft toys for infants, colouring books and crayons for toddlers, and audiobooks or travel games for older kids. Tablets loaded with movies or educational games can also be a lifesaver – just don’t forget the headphones.

8. Create a Comfort Kit
A small bag with each child’s favourite items – a blanket, stuffed animal, or pillow – can make the car ride more comforting. For toddlers, a dummy or teething toy can work wonders.

9. Be Weather Ready
Given Gauteng’s recent downpours, it’s wise to pack umbrellas, raincoats, and waterproof shoes for unexpected stops. Keep a flashlight and first-aid kit handy, and have emergency numbers saved in your phone.

10. Embrace Flexibility
Kids can be unpredictable, and the journey might not go according to plan. Build extra time into your schedule for unexpected delays and stay patient. A calm and adaptable approach will help set the tone for the whole trip.

Safe travels!