The best road trips are the ones where everyone arrives safe.
In Mzansi, April’s long weekends mean packed cars, cooler boxes, and kilometres of adventure.
Whether you’re heading to the coast or visiting family inland this month, road safety becomes a full-family responsibility, especially when kids and pets are along for the ride.
Family road trip safety tips
Travelling with pets in your car and kids at the same time?
That’s a whole different level of planning. Before you even leave the driveway, start with preparation:
- Plan your route and stops in advance
- Make sure everyone is buckled up (yes, even for short distances)
- Stick to daylight driving where possible
Keeping kids safe (and entertained)
Parents always ask: how do you keep kids safe on long road trips? It comes down to comfort and routine.
Start with proper car seat; age-appropriate seats are non-negotiable.
Then tackle boredom. If you’re thinking about how to keep kids entertained on long drives, rotate between:
- Games and playlists
- Snacks (lots of snacks)
- Scheduled stops every 2–3 hours when travelling with kids, but every two hours is the golden rule.
Pack their favourites, plan breaks, and most importantly, get your car ready.
A roadworthy car is your first line of defence. Here’s a quick guide to check your car’s readiness:
- Tyres: Check tread, pressure, and the spare.
- Brakes: A spongy pedal or squeaking sound is your cue to get them checked.
- Fluids: Check oil, coolant, and brake fluid. Then top up where needed.
- Battery: Ensure the terminals are clean and the battery isn’t past its lifespan.
- Lights & Indicators: Essential for visibility and communication on busy roads.
- Wipers: Replace worn blades.
Pet safety during road trips
Now let’s talk about your furry copilots. Pet safety during road trips is often overlooked, but it’s critical. So, what is the safest way for pets to travel in a car?
The answer is simple: secure them. Use proper pet travel carriers for cars or harnesses. Never let pets roam freely.
Other important non-negotiables include:
- Hydration (water breaks please)
- Plan walks (plan stops every 2-3 hours for everyone to stretch their legs)
- Keep the car well ventilated
And to answer your next question: no, it is not safe to leave pets unattended in cars. Even mild temperatures can become dangerous quickly.
Plan for the “what if”
Even the best-planned trips can go sideways. Picture this: it’s 2am, somewhere between towns. Your tyre bursts. Your baby and your pet both too helpless to assist. No signal. No cars. You try to change the tyre and the jack snaps.
Now it’s just you, a dying phone battery, and the dark… until, finally, one bar of signal saves the night. That’s where having backup matters.
Think:
- Emergency numbers saved
- A stocked car kit (don’t forget a cell phone charger or power bank)
- And access to help when you need it most (like 24/7 roadside emergency assistance)
So, while you’re planning your trip, it’s worth looking into dotsure.co.za’s family of cover options that support your four-wheeled baby, your furry baby and your peace of mind on the road.
With dotsure.co.za comprehensive car insurance and dotsure.co.za’s extended warranty, you also get emergency roadside assistance, which is available 24/7, whether it’s a flat tyre, breakdown, or something more serious.
Road trips are about connection, memories, and shared moments.
With the right prep and a little backup when things don’t go according to plan, you can focus on the journey, not the stress. Because the safest trips aren’t just planned. They’re protected.
Ts & Cs and possible exclusions may apply and can be obtained by emailing [email protected].
Dotsure Limited (Registration number 2006/000723/06) is a licensed non-life insurer and authorised financial services provider (FSP39925).
Voted South Africa’s Best Pet Insurance 2023-2025 by readers of The Star, Die Burger, Beeld, and City Press.
Click here to learn more about dotsure.co.za’s extended warranty.
