A beginner’s guide to road-tripping on a budget

Last updated on 14th December, 2023 at 11:37 am

The car is packed, the playlist is set, and everyone has gone to the loo – it’s finally time to hit the road. With an abundance of scenery, eateries and sights, there’s no better place to road trip than South Africa. Make sure you’re prepped and ready when you take the scenic route this summer.

Reading time: 3 minutes

In this article you’ll learn:

• Practical tips to successfully plan a road trip.
• Why preparation is key when travelling by car.
• How you can save with your Sanlam Reality benefits.

In 2022, #SouthAfricaroadtrip ranked 19th in global charts for the top road trip destination on TikTok. The study, conducted by Auto Trader in the UK, found that the hashtag had more than 275 000 views. And it’s no wonder: we’re home to stunning landscapes, endless scenic routes, cosy stops with comfort foods, and unique cultures.

It’s about the journey (and your budget)

Planning a successful road trip is, in fact, not only about the destination – it’s also about your budget. Knowing what you can afford to spend on your local holiday helps you plan and defines your expectations.

Some important questions to ask yourself once you’ve worked out your budget are:

• Where do I/my family want to visit?
• What is the ideal distance for this road trip?
• How much time can we make for stops?

Predicting your expenses will also help in making sure you’re more prepared for your trip. Don’t forget to use your free Sanlam Group ENTERTAINER app to search 100s of 2-for-1 deals and discounts on food, drinks and attractions.

On route

You might be travelling locally, but that doesn’t mean you know everything about where you’re heading. Make time to research popular routes in your area and get familiar with landmarks. Modern technology has made road-tripping that much more convenient, but it’s always best to be prepared!

With up to 20% off RSAWEB fibre to your home every month, use your benefit to do all your research before you hit the road.

Having an outline of your route, stops and destination is ideal, but don’t be too strict. Roadtrippers magazine says beginners tend to place too much emphasis on a set itinerary and feel anxious when their plans don’t work out – so keep it flexible. Besides, it wouldn’t be a proper road trip without a little adventure, anyway!

Ready, set, drive

Before you pack sunblock and flops together and bundle it into the car, consider making a checklist (or two) to make sure you have everything you need in case things don’t go according to plan.

Here’s a handy guide on what to consider:

• Check the weather before you leave
• Always carry a first aid kit
• Make sure you have a spare tyre and puncture kit
• Pack fully charged battery banks
• Make sure you have your driver’s licence and any other essential documents
• Pack a few blankets and pillows
• Stock up on snacks and water
• Bring along activities, like games, music and crossword puzzles, to do on the trip

Travelling with kids? Here are some tips for a smoother journey.

Safety should always be a major priority during a road trip – triple check your car and have a spare for anything you may need. You never know when you could get a flat or run out of oil.

No matter where the road takes you, don’t forget to use your travel benefit and save up to 30% on accommodation when you book through LekkeSlaap or Viya.