What to shop for when choosing a holiday car

What to shop for when choosing a holiday car

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‍The festive season is upon us, meaning many South Africans are planning to travel to different destinations across the country. 

The car you choose can significantly impact your holiday experience, regardless of the type of trip you're embarking on. Firstly, a perfect holiday car must offer a blend of comfort, space, and safety, and secondly, it must be efficient; you don’t want to use those last cents on petrol because you chose the wrong car. 

Before you pack those bags and hit the road, it’s best to understand the things to look out for when choosing the right car for your holiday that can also serve you well when Janu-worry rolls around. So, in the name of consumer advice, we have formulated a list to make it easier for you. 

Nothing beats having enough space

Travelling is always an adventure, but let’s be real—packing can be a challenge. From luggage bags and food supplies to camping gear, the list of must-haves seems endless. And when you’re hitting the road, the last thing you want is to feel cramped or disorganised.

Whether you’re travelling with family or friends, SUVs and minivans are perfect options for road trips, holiday packing, and fitting last-minute Christmas shopping. Many come with third-row seating, giving you extra room for passengers while leaving plenty of space for all your needs. 

Efficiency

With the rising cost of fuel over the festive period, the last thing to worry about should be efficiency. So, it’s best to choose a car that will help you save on fuel expenses, especially when you decide to travel for longer distances to your destination. 

Diesel and hybrids have proven to be more efficient than petrol-powered cars. We’ve experienced first-hand just how frugal hybrids like the Proton X90 and Toyota RAV4 Hybrid can be, making them perfect for those long holiday drives, especially stop-and-go traffic jams at the tollgates. On the other hand, diesel cars are generally great in terms of efficiency, and their added torque makes uphill sections a breeze. Not forgetting electric cars. They are brilliant if you choose to do away with the queues at the pumps. If you’re going electric, plan by checking websites like GridCars and Rubicon to locate charging stations along your route. 

Safety is non-negotiable 

It’s non-negotiable. Safety is an important aspect, and this shouldn't be overlooked. However, the good thing is that most modern cars come with an array of safety features to protect you should the worst happen. Think airbags, advanced seatbelt systems, and even technology like collision alerts and lane-keeping assist. If you’re travelling with kids, make sure they’re always buckled up or secured in an age-appropriate car seat. 

Comfort features

Though often overlooked, comfort features serve an important role, especially when embarking on a road trip. Think of adjustable, comfortable seats with adjustable lumbar support, dual-zone with rear climate control, and a decent infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

For savvy travellers, USB charging ports and Bluetooth connectivity are essential for staying connected, while travellers with kids will appreciate the comfort of rear entertainment systems to keep little ones entertained. 

When planning a trip, several factors come into play: your destination, the number of passengers, and the vehicle you choose. The car you select is important in making sure your journey is smooth and enjoyable. It's not only about how you get to your destination; it's also about getting there safely and comfortably.

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