Self-drive flexibility – a win for all ages

FOR many families, the flexibility of a self-drive holiday allows them to create the itinerary that suits their interests rather than following a fixed schedule, Anda Peter, GM of Marketing, Sponsorships and Events at Avis Southern Africa, tells Travel News. Self-drive provides the client the freedom to travel at their own pace, venture beyond the usual tourist routes, take spontaneous detours and discover hidden gems along the way. Choosing the right vehicle is an important part of planning a successful family getaway. While space and comfort remain essential, factors such as safety, luggage capacity, convenience and the type of journey should also influence the decision. With a range of mobility solutions designed around different travel needs, Avis helps families start creating memories from the moment they set off, because the best family holidays do not begin at the destination, they begin with the journey. The right car “A weekend city escape calls for a very different vehicle to a family road trip along the Garden Route or a safari through the Kruger region,” says Peter. Smaller families may prefer a compact or intermediate vehicle that’s both easy to manoeuvre and is fuel efficient, while larger groups are likely to appreciate the extra space offered by a people mover or SUV. For multigenerational holidays, comfort, leg-room and luggage capacity are just as important as the destination itself. Avis offers a range of vehicles across these categories, allowing travellers to choose the option that best suits the size of their group and the type of holiday they’re planning. Campers For families wanting to venture beyond traditional holiday routes, a fully equipped safari camper offers the opportunity to experience Southern Africa at a slower pace. Combining transport, accommodation and practical camping facilities in one vehicle allows travellers to explore remote destinations while enjoying the comforts needed for longer journeys. Peter emphasises the importance of understanding how the family intend to travel – the distances they’ll cover, the activities they’ve planned and the amount of luggage they’ll carry. “This helps ensure they choose a vehicle that complements their itinerary rather than limits it.” Practical extras Thoughtful planning can make the journey even more enjoyable. For families travelling with young children, reserving the appropriate child safety seat before departure provides both convenience and peace of mind. Practical travel extras such as GPS navigation, mobile WiFi and bicycle racks can also enhance the holiday experience, while services like SafeDrive provide additional reassurance for families spending extended time on the road. The goal isn’t simply to travel comfortably – it’s to spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying the moments that matter. “Today’s travellers are looking for experiences that allow them to reconnect, travel at their own pace and create lasting memories together,” says Peter. “Our role is to provide flexible mobility solutions that make every stage of the journey easier, safer and more convenient.”