None of us could have imagined the unprecedented events that have unfolded in recent months. For most of us, travel is now paused but that doesn’t mean dreaming and planning should be put on hold. Here is some inspiration for when we can travel again. Nothing beats hitting the great open (or should we say Great Ocean) road with friends, family and a jam-packed travel itinerary in tow! Whether you’re planning a three-day quick trip or a month-long extravaganza, it’s important to have some handy hacks and safety tips under your (seat) belt. Even if you’re feeling fairly confident on Aussie’s great roads, be sure you and your passengers cast your eyes over the following, just to be on the safe side.

Hacks for road-tripping around Australia

Eliminate any potential for mess and stress with these trusted travel hacks: Download the Wikicamps app Smartphones, physical map books and sat-navs – if only we could roll them into one. Thankfully, someone’s done the hard work for us and created Wikicamps – the one-stop shop for everything you could possibly need to know when road-tripping. The app shows where to find the nearest fuel stations, campgrounds, information centres, points of interest, hostels – you name it, it’s on the database, all of which is updated regularly! Best part, it works completely offline so you don’t have to worry about phone signal or internet connection! Get roadside assistance Unless you’re the Stig, it’s extremely hard knowing when mechanic issues will prevail. Being stuck at the side of the road with a bum car isn’t just stressful, it can be dangerous too. Having expert roadside assistance removes any worry as you know help is only a phone call away. Before you know it, you and your vehicle will be back on the open road heading to your next Aussie destination!

Photo credit Getty/Pixdeluxe

Spend more time smiling and less time stressing with these trusted road trip hacks.

How to stay safe on Australian roads

It always pays to be prepared when driving in new places. Here’s what you need to know: Check road conditions in advance Like its landscapes and weather, the road conditions of Australia are also extremely diverse. From dusty tracks to muddy paths, roads can present a number of challenges for even the most experienced driver. Being aware of upcoming road conditions is especially important if you’re heading to places prone to flooding and bushfires. Reading road reports online and listening out to traffic updates on local radio stations is a good way to stay on top of changes. Only make safe photo stops No matter where you go in Australia, you’re inundated with jaw-dropping photo opportunities. However, stopping your car suddenly or pulling over in an unsafe location to snap a surprise wildlife encounter can easily cause an accident. If you want to take some pictures, make sure you signal and pull over with enough time for the person behind to react. Take regular breaks Did you know that an estimated one in 25 adult drivers (aged 18 years or older) report having fallen asleep while driving in the previous 30 days? What this data published on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention site doesn’t detail is the disastrous effect driving tired can have on you and others on the road. Don’t run the risk of danger – take regular breaks when you start to feel tired or swap drivers with another insured person in the car.

Photo credit Getty/James Braund

Take photos in safe spots to avoid accidents on Australia’s roads.

Staying safe and having fun at the same time go hand in hand with Travel Insurance Direct. We know what it takes to keep yourself protected while adventuring in fantastic destinations. Get in touch today to find out how we can help you get ready for your next trip.