Planning a Self-Drive Vacation for the Family
Checklist and Tips for a Pleasant Driving Holiday Abroad
Sep 10, 2009
The advantages of a driving trip include a flexible itinerary, vehicle and hotel accommodation choices and more importantly, the traveler is in control of the pace.
Knowing the wants of the family, the travel budget and time available for travel, will make it easier for the traveler to plan the route. The key to a successful trip is adequate planning.
Planning the Driving Route
It is worthwhile focusing the driving trip on one country at a time for example while holidaying in Europe. Driving becomes more leisurely and pleasant with lesser adjustments to be made. It is an individual choice.
Once the country and its places of interest are selected through various information sources, planning the driving route is a breeze with the help of the internet. Google Maps is a tool that gives the driver a street directory view at locating street names, places, including the distance and time needed to move from location to location.
For first time users, go to the webpage, click on Get directions followed by Change default location. Type in the country visiting. Finally click on the Save button and the traveler is ready to map out the driving route.
Accommodation Reservation and Ticket Purchase to Places of Interest
With the driving route and sightseeing places planned, choosing and booking the accommodation available at each stopover is the next step. The common approach is to visit the local travel agent for help. The other is to self-book through the webpage of the motels or resorts identified. When booking through the internet, printing out a copy of the confirmation for records is important and necessary.
Booking ahead for accommodation and some activities like spa or outdoor skiing is always advisable because of pressure on the facilities during the peak season. Better rates may sometimes be offered if a booking is made during the off-peak period.
Car Rental and Insurance
Car rental should be arranged through a local travel agent or car rental company before the trip. Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Hertz, are some of the major car rental companies represented in most countries. The car can be collected at the airport upon arrival or at the hotel as arranged.
An important point to take note when driving abroad is the vehicle insurance cover. While third party cover and insuring the vehicle for accidental damage, fire and theft are common, purchasing a Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) is a better choice. With a slightly higher daily premium, the traveler will not need to pay a single cent in the event of a crash or damage arising.
In addition, a travel insurance that normally covers personal accident, loss of personal belongings and medical expenses ought to be seriously considered as well.
On the Road Checklist
Some pertinent points not to be overlooked when driving abroad include:
- Taking a little time to familiarize with the road rules and regulations of the country visiting. Some countries like New Zealand do provide the information to tourists on the internet - New Zealand Transport Agency. Local Automobile Associations or the embassies, international maps purchased from bookstores are other potential road information sources.
- Be prepared or familiarize with driving on the correct side of the road, In some countries, traffic moves on the left-hand side of the road and cars are right-hand driven. For example in Australia, New Zealand, Great Britain, Thailand and Singapore. It is the reverse in North America, China, Taiwan and Korea.
- Some countries follow the metric system and speed limits in motorways are in kilometres per hour instead of miles per hour.
- For drivers used to urban driving, driving in the countryside needs special care. There is a need to look out for one-way bridges, unsealed roads and animal crossing signs in some instances.
- Car seats may be required for young children and the car rental company can arrange for one if necessary.
- Check out where the car jack is kept in the car and how to use it in case it is needed to change a puncture tire.
- Sun tan lotion and bottled water are useful for minimizing sun burn and dehydration during the journey in the hot summer in some countries.
- Clinics and pharmacies may not be on sight when needed most. Consider bringing along preventive medications for headache, cold and diarrhoea.
- Bring along a pocket phrase book for simple conversation on the road - asking for directions or help.
Driving on the Road is an Acquired Skill
When driving in a foreign country, always be patient and respect the local people and their way of life.
Drivers who seldom drive in their own country may consider taking a few driving lessons before the driving trip to get familiarize with the handling of the car. There is a difference between handling a manual transmission car and an automatic one.
Abstaining from alcohol when driving and having a good night's rest after each day is necessary to stay mentally alert on the road at all times.
Lastly, a driver should trust his or her instincts. If a situation seems unnerving, when the carpark is deserted or being approached by suspicious individuals or if it is getting dark in a remote area, drive off as soon as possible.
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