When planning to travel around South Africa, drivers can often spend days planning the route for their road trips. Between selecting roads, accommodation, stop-off points, and refuelling points, this lengthy stage is understandable.
But with all the excitement that the open road brings, there are also potential issues and incidents that responsible adults need to plan for, especially during winter travel. Firstly, it will always be in your best interest to book your car for a service to ensure everything under the bonnet is working.
However, there’s still no guarantee that your South African road trip will be flawless. This means that when planning, it’s essential to pack wisely and efficiently. Here are five tools you should consider taking with you:
1. Tyre Pressure Gauge
Packing a tyre pressure gauge will allow you to check the air pressure in your tyres regularly. If your tyre has a slow leak, it’s better to find out sooner rather than later, and punctures can happen in a second.
Also, maintaining proper tyre pressure improves fuel efficiency, ensures safe handling, and reduces the risk of damage – all good news for those travelling long distances.
2. Multi-Tool
We can hear the “manly men” in the background recommending an entire mechanical toolbox for the boot. But if you’re driving a small car, space is going to be a problem.
So, we recommend that you at least take a multi-tool, which can come in handy for various tasks. Make sure to look for one that includes a knife, screwdrivers, pliers, and other tools you might need for minor repairs or adjustments on the road.
3. Portable Power Pack
There are many reasons that a car battery could stop working. And when it does happen, it’s usually at a highly inconvenient moment. But if you have a portable power pack in the glove box, you can restart your vehicle’s engine.
Make sure to read the product’s instruction manual before using it. In the perfect world, you’d practise using it before you left home.
You can also pack a set of jumper cables if you’re unable to locate a portable power pack. Just make sure you know how to use them.
4. Torch
While most cell phones have a torch function, in an emergency, you want a more reliable source of light. Whether it is to look under the vehicle, light up a pathway, or anything else, it is essential for any road trip.
Opt for an LED flashlight with long battery life or consider a rechargeable one.
5. Duct tape
Duct tape is a versatile tool for temporary fixes – it won’t last forever but it can help you patch up small leaks, secure loose parts, or temporarily repair various items until you can reach a proper solution. Pack a small roll for emergencies.
Also, consider buying the better-quality duct tape; there really is a difference.
With these five items stored in your vehicle, you should be prepared to tackle the majority of issues that pop up.
Other things to check are your spare tyre, whether the car jack works, and if you have the correct spanner for your vehicle. These are crucial tools for changing a flat tyre. It’s also a good idea to keep a first aid kit in the car, fully stocked with supplies.
Additionally, look through your vehicle’s manual for any specific tools recommended by the manufacturer.
What other checks can you perform before going on a road trip around South Africa?
Get Your Battery Tested Before Your Next Road Trip!
If you’re keen to make sure that your car’s battery is healthy, you can get it tested at your local SABAT battery Xpress, or SABAT battery stockist.
Finding your closest supplier has never been easier.
