The upcoming Easter long weekend, marked by a strained economy and rising costs all round, will likely change how South Africans approach travel arrangements this year, says Ashif Black, country representative for inDrive South Africa.
“Higher fuel costs resulting from global tensions also mean that the cost of air travel is going up, which means we will likely see more South Africans opting to drive to their destinations this Easter. This of course places more strain on the country’s roads, not to mention increasing the risks of accidents with higher volumes of cars on the road too,” says Black.
Easter is already one of the busiest times on the national calendar, marked by religious observances, family gatherings and short holidays that draw thousands onto the roads at once. And while recent data from the Department of Transport showed a drop of 32.5% in road fatalities and crashes in 2025, Easter is still a high-risk travel period to be treated with caution, “particularly as volumes increase and long-distance driving, fatigue and night travel come into play,” he adds.
He adds that shifting travel habits require a more considered approach. “We’re seeing people become more cost-conscious, which is understandable, but it can also lead to decisions like skipping vehicle checks, overloading cars or driving longer distances without proper breaks. These are the kinds of risks that can quickly undo the progress we’ve seen.”
With this in mind, inDrive shares advice for South African drivers considering travelling over the long weekend to ensure everyone drive and arrives safely this Easter.
Plan smarter, not just earlier
With more travellers opting to drive, congestion on major routes is expected to remain high. Planning departure times is still important, but so does planning how you travel. Co-ordinating trips with family or friends can reduce the number of vehicles on the road and help manage fuel costs.
Use shared mobility where it makes sense
For shorter distances, errands or social outings, ride-hailing and shared mobility options can reduce the need to keep driving once you’ve arrived at your destination, or even if you are staying in your home city and need to get around. This helps limit fuel spend, eases congestion in busy areas and offers a practical alternative to navigating high-traffic conditions, particularly during peak periods or at night.
Don’t cut corners on vehicle safety
Rising costs may tempt some motorists to delay basic vehicle maintenance, but this carries real risk. Checking tyres, brakes, lights and fluid levels before a long trip remains essential, particularly when travelling longer distances or with additional passengers.
Be mindful when carpooling
Sharing trips can ease financial pressure, but it also increases responsibility. Avoid overloading vehicles, ensure all passengers are wearing seatbelts and plan regular rest stops to manage fatigue.
Reduce reliance on cash while travelling
Busy travel periods can increase exposure to opportunistic crime. Using card or in-app payments where possible can reduce the need to carry cash and make every day travel simpler and safer.
Keep safety front of mind on every trip
Whether travelling long distance or moving around locally, sharing trip details, avoiding isolated areas and choosing transport options with built-in safety features, including trip tracking and driver verification, can add an extra layer of protection during a high-pressure travel period.
As South Africans adjust to a more expensive travel landscape this Easter, the reality is that movement won’t stop, but how people move will likely shift to meet their needs. With more vehicles expected on the road and longer hours behind the wheel, small, considered choices can make a meaningful difference in ensuring that this busy period remains both manageable and safe for all.
