As families across South Africa start preparing for the annual festive-season getaway, most motorists have already ticked off the usual pre-trip checks: tyre pressure, oil, coolant and brake fluid levels, spare wheel condition, lights, and windscreen wipers. These are the fundamental steps to making sure your car is safely set for the journey ahead.
But what if the unexpected happens? What if you find yourself stranded in a remote area, far from help, without immediate access to water, warmth, or battery power? According to Juan Hanekom, National Director of the South African Motor Body Repairers’ Association (SAMBRA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), this is the moment when the less obvious essentials could make all the difference.
“Most people take care of the mechanical basics before they travel, which is encouraging,” says Hanekom. “But safety on the road also means preparing for the unpredictable. A few simple, lightweight items can drastically improve your chances of staying safe and connected if you ever find yourself stuck or waiting for roadside assistance.”
SAMBRA outlines five often-overlooked but crucial items every motorist should pack before hitting the holiday roads:
1. Fully charged power bank and cables
Your cellphone is your lifeline in any emergency, but a flat battery can leave you completely cut off. A high-capacity power bank ensures that you can make emergency calls, access maps, or send help messages even after long delays.
2. Emergency blanket or warm clothing
Even in typically warm regions, temperatures drop quickly at night. If you break down and must wait for assistance, a thermal blanket or extra layer can prevent dangerous heat loss, especially for children, older passengers, or anyone vulnerable to the cold.
3. Water purification tablets or a compact water filter
While bottled water is essential, it won’t last forever if you’re stuck for a prolonged period. Purification tablets or a portable filter allow you to make found water safe to drink - an invaluable safeguard against dehydration in remote or rural areas.
4. Whistle and reflective warning devices
A whistle carries further than your voice and can attract attention when you can’t shout. Reflective triangles or flares ensure your vehicle is visible to other road users, particularly at night or in low-visibility conditions, reducing the risk of a secondary accident.
5. Portable jump starter/battery pack
Although jumper cables are helpful, they rely on another motorist stopping to assist you. A portable jump starter is a independent solution that can bring your battery back to life within minutes—even if you’re completely alone.
Small extras that go a long way
Wet wipes, duct tape, a multi-tool, and a compact tyre inflator or sealant can solve minor problems on the spot, saving time and preventing further damage.
Hanekom emphasises that festive-season roads can be unpredictable, with high temperatures, long distances and increased traffic all contributing to vehicle strain.
“Preparation isn’t only about preventing a breakdown; it’s about ensuring your personal safety if one does occur. These simple items could prove invaluable.”
As thousands of South Africans gear up for long-awaited holidays, SAMBRA urges motorists to think beyond the basics and travel with confidence, preparedness and peace of mind.