Safe & Sound
Take To The Skies
Road Advisories
Too Cool To Carpool?
Safe & Sound
Balik Kampung season is upon us, and as many hit the road or take to the skies to reunite with loved ones, ensuring a safe and smooth journey should be at the top of your checklist. Whether you're driving long distances or catching a flight, a little preparation goes a long way in avoiding unnecessary stress and delays.
Car Maintenance
A well-maintained car significantly reduces the risk of breakdowns on the highway. If your service is due soon, take it in early and let your mechanic know you’ll be driving long distances. Ensure key components such as your tyres, brakes, engine oil, car battery and air conditioner are in top condition. You may even check that the windscreen wipers, car lights, car insurance and road tax and other emergency essentials are in good working order.
Early Prep
For those travelling with children, preparation is key to a smooth journey. Be sure to pack some snacks and nourishment, water or milk bottles, fully charged electronic devices and portable chargers, non-digital entertainment like books or toys as well as a change of clothes and cleaning supplies in case of spills or accidents. Do also take into account travel time and factor in stops for meals, toilet breaks, prayers, and nappy changes to avoid unnecessary stress.
Take To The Skies
If you’re flying home, be at the airport at least three hours before departure to ensure a hassle-free check-in and boarding process. Consider the time needed to travel to the airport, accounting for possible traffic delays. Self-check-in via your airline’s app, website, or airport kiosks can help save time and streamline your experience.
Top It Up
Toll fares are often waived for two days during festive periods, but if you’re travelling earlier or later, make sure your Touch ’n Go card has enough balance. Since top-up lanes at toll booths were removed in 2019, you must reload your card beforehand to avoid any delays.
Avoid Peak Hours
Traffic congestion is inevitable during festive seasons. To avoid long delays, consider leaving during off-peak hours. If you can manage an early morning start as early as 3am as you’ll likely experience much smoother traffic conditions.
Road Advisories
Stay informed about road conditions by following useful accounts such as PLUS Malaysia Berhad, Kementerian Kerja Raya, Lembaga Lebuhraya Malaysia and Astro Radio Traffic or use navigation apps like Waze or Google Maps to check traffic conditions, roadblocks, and speed limits before and during your journey.
Rest Is Best
Driver fatigue is a major risk, so ensure you are well-rested before setting out on a long drive. Avoid driving when drowsy and make rest stops when needed. Stop at designated areas to stretch, grab coffee, take a power nap, or switch drivers if possible. A great tip is to have someone in the co-driver seat to keep you engaged in conversation and alert throughout the journey.
Litter Bug
This should go without saying, but littering is both hazardous and irresponsible. The trash you throw out the window could pose a danger to others on the road. Keep a trash bag in the car and dispose of waste properly at designated stops.
Too Cool To Carpool?
If you have friends or family heading to the same hometown, carpooling is a great way to reduce travel costs, ease congestion, and have a co-driver for shared driving duties. It also makes for a more enjoyable and lively journey.
Congested Hotspots
If you're heading to busy states like Melaka, Johor, or Penang, expect not just road congestion but also crowded town centres and tourist hotspots. Plan any sightseeing or visits in advance, keeping in mind that school holidays often coincide with this travel period, making public places even busier.
A smooth balik kampung journey is all about preparation, patience, and common sense. Travel safely, enjoy the festivities, and cherish the precious moments with your loved ones.
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