Plan ahead, stay alert: Essential safety tips for long-weekend travel

With Heritage Day falling on Thursday, 24 September 2026, South Africans who take Friday, 25 September, off could turn the public holiday into a four-day long weekend – creating the perfect opportunity for a road trip, family getaway or visit to friends and relatives. The long weekend also coincides with the school holidays, which is expected to result in increased traffic volumes and more vehicles on the roads. Motorists are therefore urged to plan ahead, remain vigilant and prioritise safety throughout their journey.

of distraction can have serious consequences. Hattingh also urges motorists to remain vigilant when visiting shopping centres and malls during the long weekend.

Please consider that criminal elements may also be flocking to these busy public spaces. Your personal safety should be a key priority no matter where you go.

Parking areas can provide criminals with opportunities to observe motorists and identify potential targets.

This could be a woman alone or with children, or an elderly person. It is also easy for criminals to sit in a vehicle and observe their surroundings without attracting attention.