Long Distance Travel Safety Checklist:

2. Tyres: Where Rubber Meets the Road

Tyres are critical to your safety. You wouldn’t run a marathon in flip-flops, would you? Your car needs proper footwear, too.

• Check tread depth (should be at least 1.6 mm).
• Look for uneven wear, bulges, or damage.
• Check your tyre pressure:
  • Under inflated tyres can cause blowouts & increase fuel consumption.
  • Always verify pressure when tyres are cold, including your spare.
  • Inflate to the manufacturer’s specifications for a full load.
• Apply these checks to your spare tyre (in good condition and fully inflated).

3. Lights & Electrical: Shine Bright

Most road trips—especially Easter—require early departures or late arrivals. You need to see and be seen at all times, especially in the dark or adverse weather conditions. A quick walk around your car can reveal any burnt-out bulbs.

• Test all your lights: headlights, brake lights, indicators, and hazards.
• Ensure all dashboard warning lights turn off after starting.
• Apply these checks to your trailer or caravan, too.

4. Fluids: The Lifeblood of Your Vehicle

There’s more to “fluids” than fuel. Imagine running out of coolant in the Karoo heat!

Low fluid levels can lead to major mechanical failures, particularly on long trips when your vehicle is under sustained pressure.
Before any long journey, check all vital fluids, including:

• Engine oil.
• Coolant/antifreeze.
• Brake fluid.
• Power steering fluid.
• Windscreen washer fluid.

5. Windscreen & Wipers: Clear Vision

Clear visibility is essential to avoid hazards, keeping everyone safe on the road. Worn wipers can smear and impair your view.

• Repair any chips or cracks in your windscreen before they spread.
• Replace worn wiper blades (if they’re streaking or making noise).
• Check your rear window as well.

6. Brakes: Stop Immediately

Don’t gamble with your safety; your brakes are crucial for avoiding accidents. Take your car out for a spin a few days before a long trip to test your brakes thoroughly.

• Listen for unusual noises when braking. If you hear any squealing or grinding noises, get them checked by a professional.
• Feel for vibrations or pulling to one side.
• Ensure the brake pedal feels firm, not spongy.
• Check brake pad thickness if possible.

7. Emergency Kit: Be Prepared

Be prepared for the unexpected. You never know what can happen on a long-distance drive.

Pack an emergency kit with essentials:

• Phone charger or power bank.
• Warning triangle.
• Reflective vest.
• First aid kit.
• Torch with extra batteries.
• Basic tools.
• Water and non-perishable snacks.

7. Matrix App: Your Travel Companion

Last but certainly not least, make sure your Matrix app is up to date.

• Latest version.
• Verify current vehicle and emergency contact information.
• Ensure you know how to work the panic button on the app and the remote.
• Explore the driver behaviour monitoring tools to improve safety on the road.

If you’re considering adding extra features for this trip, now is the perfect time to upgrade.

With real-time tracking and emergency assistance at your fingertips, your trusty travel companion is here to support your journey.