During the festive season, many Kenyans travel long distances to visit family and friends, making the roads busier than usual.

This period often comes with heavy traffic and a higher chance of accidents.

So, how can you make your journey safer? If you are travelling in your own car, getting your vehicle ready before the trip can make a big difference between a smooth, safe ride and a stressful one.

Use these to keep your car safe and ready for the festive season road trips:

One of the easiest but often overlooked ways to prepare for a road trip is by giving your vehicle a full service.

Check the engine oil, because low or old oil can lead to engine overheating or damage on long journeys.

It is also important to check coolant levels. This helps prevent the engine from overheating, especially when driving through different counties with changing weather conditions.

The brake systems also deserve special attention, as a long trip typically means that the braking system will be subjected to extra load. Drivers should confirm the brake pads, discs and brake fluid are in good condition since effective braking is essential on hilly terrain and during sudden stops. 

For long trips, drivers should plan the routes. The Ministry of Interior recently took some steps towards this by announcing alternative routes for motorists heading to Nyanza, Western, and Central Kenya in a bid to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow ahead of the festive season.

Another key consideration is fuel planning. For long trips, drivers are advised to start their trips with a full tank, as fuel stations can be sparse and far between in rural areas.

Also, the car’s engine stands a better chance of retaining its health when it is running on a tank that is predominantly full for a better part of the trip. 

In terms of suspension and steering systems, drivers should inspect these parts to ensure the vehicle can comfortably handle uneven terrain and long distances without compromising control. 

A simple way to get past this is ensuring there to do a rough road test to ensure there is no noise from the system whatsoever. 

Perhaps the most important safety precaution a driver can take for a long trip is ensuring the tyres are in prime condition. Since many rural roads are characterised by rough, muddy terrain, some mechanics recommend a full overhaul of all four tyres. 

Drivers should also ensure that the spare tyre is properly inflated, while the car should be accompanied by a functional jack and wheel spanner in case of emergencies. 

Moreover, drivers are encouraged to be armed with essential safety equipment like reflective triangles, a first-aid kit and a fire extinguisher.