5 tips for staying safe on the summer road trip

Summer is here and for many of us it’s time to hit the road to visit the whānau for Christmas, head to the batch, the beach or maybe enjoy a break away with friends.??

With lockdowns and restrictions having been in place for some time (sorry we had to say it), it may be the first time you’ve hit the open road for a while. So it’s important to take it easy and play it safe, especially while the roads are busier than usual. Here are five tips to stay safe when heading off on your road trip this summer.?

1. Slip, slop, slap and wrap?

Whether you’re lucky enough to have a convertible with the top down, or simply driving with your right arm out the window – remember the New Zealand sun is strong and the message of slip, slop slap and wrap applies, even in the car. Those sunnies we sell at our service stations aren’t just a fashion statement, they help protect your eyes and your vision while driving. So don’t forget to bring them with you, along with the sunblock and hat to make it a more comfortable trip.??

2. Check your car is road ready?

We might be used to doing the quick run-around town however when we’re hitting the open road for those longer travel days it’s important to take a couple of minutes to make sure your car is road ready. Have you got your WoF? registration? Enough mileage pre-paid for diesel if doing a bigger trip? Checked your lights are working? Is there enough air in the tyres (including the spare if you have one)? Cars require a fair bit of maintenance but it’s an important chore to keep on top of to make sure the vehicle you drive is road safe. Waka Kotahi has some tips for checking the basics. Check these out here.???

3. Keep your car clean and reduce drag?

Driving smoothly can save on fuel meaning more money for other things however you can also help this by ensuring your car is tidy and not carrying extra weight when needed which can impact your fuel use. Hitting the road for those longer trips we often take a lot of gear, that’s ok, but once you’re at your destination, consider removing roof racks, or emptying the boot completely rather than using it as a storage space. This will reduce weight and make your car more fuel efficient while you’re driving around your destination.??

It’s also important to keep a car clean and tidy (we know it’s hard on roadies) and this can help with visibility to keep you safe as well as not being distracted by the drink bottles and snack packets rolling on the floor. And whether it’s at your destination or when you get home, why not give your car a good spruce and clean. We have over 60 Z20 car wash sites across the country, and 40 of these sites use recycled water in order to reduce our consumption, which is particularly important in the summer months.??

4. Fuel up safely?

All that driving will mean you will need to fuel up along the way. We’ve got you covered with 197 Z stations across the country. And whether you want to pay in store, at the pump or from your phone, we’re proud to give you the choice to do so how you want. Paying via the Z App means you won’t need to leave your children unattended in the car while you pop inside, or you can avoid interactions with others due to the pandemic. And if you’re signed up for Z Pumped, Fly Buys or Air New Zealand Airpoints, simply scan your card/app and you could earn points as well as our Pumped everyday fuel discount. Find out more about our Z App and its features on our website.?

Plus, if you want to fill up for your entire trip, more than just your current fuel tank, checkout Sharetank on Z App. It allows you to access the lowest Z pump price within 30km of your location and pre-purchase up to 1,000 litres of any grade – that way you can hit the road knowing your fuel is covered for the entire roadie.?

5. Get home safely and have fun?

Buckle up. Drive to the conditions. Take breaks. Avoid distractions. Don’t drink and drive. We all know the rules to ensuring we get home safely after hitting the road this summer, and they are there because they work. Whether you are going near or far, taking time out or visiting friends/whānau and exploring familiar or new places this summer, Z wishes you a happy and safe festive season, take care and safe travels.??