Good advice from the RACQ to make sure you are prepared before setting off on a holidays road trip to avoid any unwanted disruptions.
Check your vehicle
As the maxim goes, “prevention is better than cure”, so do a basic check of your car before heading off.
Check your Roadside Assistance coverage
No matter how prepared you are, a breakdown or flat tyre can happen to anyone.
If you do break down, RACQ patrols are available to help 24 hours a day, 365 days a year by calling 13 1111 or using the Roadside Assistance app.
Check your insurance
Compulsory Third Party (CTP) Insurance comes with your vehicle registration and provides protection to the at-fault driver against any compensation claims from individuals who are injured as a result of a motor vehicle accident. You can choose your preferred CTP insurer and make the switch at any time.
Pack for safety
Overpacking for a trip is something that befalls even the most experienced travellers. Loose items can become missiles in a crash so only pack what you need and ensure all items are securely stowed.
Check road conditions
Before heading off, check road conditions for closures and traffic updates using the RACQ map. It will help you avoid any unnecessary delays which can be frustrating and have the potential to ruin your trip. And remember: If it’s flooded, forget it.
Plan your stops
If you’re sticking to major roads, plan to stop to take a break and stretch your legs every two hours. If you’re travelling in rural areas or outback where fuel stations are few and far between, you’ll need to plan your stops carefully to ensure you have enough fuel, water and food to make it to your next destination
Eco-drive your dollar further
With fuel prices across Queensland reaching record high levels, it is more important than ever to use driving strategies which can reduce its use. RACQ research found drivers could save up to $400 per year, based on a fuel price of $2 per litre, if they adopted `eco-driving’ strategies.