How to prepare for road trips during Christmas in Nigeria

December and Christmas are at our fingertips again. It’s the time of the year that is reserved for traveling to other states within Nigeria to be with family members. Considering the security and financial state of the nation, traveling by road during this festive season has to be done with caution.

The following are tips that we strongly recommend that you adhere to:

Plan your movement ahead

You have to be very specific about where you’re traveling to and how you intend to get there. Decide on the time at which you hit the road and adhere strictly to the decided departure time.

Make all necessary bookings and arrangements for the vehicle you’ll be journeying in so you don’t have to worry about anything at the dying minute.

Sticking to the plan at this point helps the overall outcome of the trip.

Have car tools

One of the hiccups of road trips is the unforeseen car problems that the vehicle you’re traveling in could develop. Overheating, flat tires, and fuel finishing, are some of the issues you’re likely to encounter so you must prepare for them. Make sure the vehicle is serviced before the trip, buy a full tank of fuel and some extra in a jerrycan, and have a spare tire, tire jack, warning triangle, fire extinguisher, water, razor, etc.

Avoid over-speeding

A handful of the roads that lead to other states in Nigeria are not in the best condition. The roads might be relatively free and even smooth up to specific points but they have potholes. It is in your best interest that you drive steadily and reduce your speed.

Avoid night traveling

The motivation behind traveling at night is the lack of traffic because there would be fewer vehicles on the road during those hours. Due to the current spike in insecurity within the country, it is advisable that you only travel during the day. If night comes while you’re still on your journey, find a place to retire then you continue during the day.

Don’t ignore traffic rules

The traffic rules that you follow in Lagos are applicable while on a road trip to other states. Ensure that you use your seatbelt and you don’t go above the speed limit. Obey all traffic lights and have all your vehicle documents. This will prevent you from getting into trouble with road enforcement authorities in unfamiliar territories.