Road-trip sanity 101

By Ané Theron

While the kids are packing their suitcases in anticipation, many a mom and dad are not quite looking forward to the holidays as much, especially if they'll be doing all the driving. If you're easily agitated by other road users and/or noisy children/fellow passengers, here's what you can do to keep stress levels to a minimum.

• Work out an alternative route

Google Maps will usually lead you on the fastest route, which is also the busiest - and with our road death statistics, it's often not the safest either. But here's a novel idea: take the time to plan a route that's quiet and scenic, even if it's dirt in parts (and your car is up to it), or a little bit longer.

• Get the kids off the technology

As much as the tablets and phones offer you some well-deserved respite from the arguments between siblings over nonsensical things, it can also over-stimulate kids and make them more boisterous and bothersome. Keep the technology as a last resort, and rather play some fun in-car games. Get to know your kids by asking them their top three favourite foods, hobbies, places to go, subjects at school, and so forth. Pack games like magnetic chess and scrabble, trump cards, and even 30 Seconds.

• Don't keep get the children hyped up on sugar

Just like technology, sweets should be the last resort when the kids are weary of sitting inside the car. Snacks like fruit, biltong, sandwiches and nuts should be offered freely. Avoid sugary drinks (yes, even fruit juice) and give water instead. A fed and watered kid is a happy kid.

• Take your B-vitamins

Most stressed-out parents know that B-Vitamins aid in keeping you calm, yet energized - exactly what you need on a long drive. Avoid stimulants like strong coffee and energy drinks, which can wreak havoc with a temper that's already quite fiery! Other natural remedies include Rhodiola and Ashwaghanda, as well as Ginseng. Keeping your Magnesium levels topped up (take it before bed) will also help to keep you cool and calm.

• Manage that playlist

Get the in-car playlist sorted before your trip, so everyone's got something they like to listen to. The driver has preference, of course, but some music is good at calming everyone's nerves, like classical jazz...

• Have your car checked out well in advance

Being stranded on the side of the road with car trouble is not just inconvenient and frustrating, but also downright dangerous to you and your family. A pre-holiday check is an absolute must - and leave enough time to have your car fixed if anything is seriously wrong.

• Invest in night-time driving glasses

Planning to leave way before sunrise? If you struggle to see well at night, speak to your local optometrist about lenses that are tailored for dark driving conditions. And remember that oncoming traffic also gets dazzled by your high-beam headlamps - be considerate and switch them to low-beam in time.