The holiday season is finally here, and right now the only thing standing between you and your holiday destination is the long road to get there. LekkeSlaap.co.za, an Afrikaans online accommodation booking website, offers the following tips to help you stay wide awake behind the wheel.
Follow these tips to help you stay wide awake behind the wheel:
Get a head start: Make sure you get a good night's rest the evening before you depart. Plan ahead so that you don't have to rush when you need to pack;
Don't drink before you drive: Don't drink alcohol the day or evening before you leave for your holiday. This can lead to drowsiness and a lack of concentration on the road;
Regular breaks: If you have a long trip ahead, make sure you stop every two to three hours for about 20 minutes. This will help your blood circulation, give your eyes a chance to rest, and allow you to stretch your legs;
Share the driving whenever possible: Car-pooling is not only an eco-friendly way to travel; it is also a safe one. If one or more of your passengers has a driver's licence, take turns behind the wheel. Having passengers is also a great way to fight fatigue as you can chat and play games in the car to keep you awake;
Drink coffee: This is an easy and lekker tip. The caffeine will help you stay awake and it is much better than sugar-loaded energy drinks;
Magie vol, ogies toe: Avoid eating a big meal before you leave. This also goes for pit stops en route to your destination. Eating a big meal tends to make you feel sleepy, so opt for small snacks instead. Healthy snacks like biltong, dried or fresh fruit, nuts and popcorn are great to chew on;
A change is as good as a holiday: Your car's interior can help you to stay alert and awake. Yup! Ensure you open the windows to let fresh air in, switch the air-conditioner on, change the radio stations and the volume, and try to avoid cruise control as this can lessen your concentration levels; and
Sit up straight: Your posture also plays a big part in keeping you alert and awake. Keep your head up, your shoulders back and your bum pushed firmly to the back of your seat. Your legs should not be fully extended, but bent at about 45°.
