Road trips are more than just a way to get from point A to point B; they’re an adventure, a test of endurance, and a treasure trove of memories waiting to be made. But for every scenic sunset and sing-along moment, there are unwritten rules to ensure your road trip is more joyride than joyless ride.
Here’s how to survive (and thrive) on your next big drive.
Rule #1: Curate the Ultimate Playlist
No road trip is complete without great music. A well-curated playlist can make or break the journey.
Start with classics like “Hotel California” by The Eagles, “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd, and “Take It Easy” by Jackson Browne. For local flair, add Johnny Clegg’s “Great Heart” or Miriam Makeba’s “Pata Pata.” Don’t forget to include sing-along anthems and a few guilty pleasures like “Afrika” by Toto and Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing” (yes, The Proclaimers; “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” is a must).
Pro tip: Assign a “DJ” for the trip to avoid the ultimate road trip sin: fiddling with the playlist while driving.
Rule #2: Pack Proper Padkos
What’s a road trip without snacks? Padkos has evolved, but the classics remain unrivalled. Stock up on modern essentials like beef biltong sticks, animal zoo biscuits, pink & white marshmallows, potato chips, and jelly babies. For nostalgia, bring out the Sunday leftovers: cold roast potatoes, sliced lamb, and chicken drumsticks. Who can forget the hard-boiled eggs with a salt-and-pepper sachet, and cheese and tomato sandwiches cut into neat triangles? Padkos isn’t just fuel; it’s part of the experience.
Rule #3: Respect the Driver
The driver is the MVP of any road trip. Respect their role by avoiding behaviours that could lead to tension:
- No unnecessary distractions: Don’t argue over the playlist and definitely don’t change the song mid-chorus.
- No backseat driving: Unless you see actual flames, trust the driver’s judgment.
- No snoring in the passenger seat: If the driver can’t nap, neither can you (fair is fair).
Rule #4: Embrace the Detours
Some of the best road trip memories happen when you veer off the planned route. Stop for that quirky roadside attraction or unplanned photo op. Spontaneity is half the fun—just make sure your car insurance covers the unexpected, too.
Rule #5: Insurance = Peace of Mind
On that note, a reliable car insurance policy is the unsung hero of any road trip. Whether you’re navigating potholes or winding mountain passes, knowing you’re covered lets you focus on the journey, not the “what ifs.”
Rule #6: Leave Room for Fun
Road trips aren’t meant to be a race to the finish line. Play car games – “eye-spy” is a must, share stories, and laugh at the inevitable mishaps (like realising you’ve been driving in the wrong direction for an hour).
So, pack your snacks, queue up the playlist, and hit the road. With these unwritten rules in mind, your next adventure is sure to be smooth—and maybe even unforgettable. Cheers to the open road!
