Easter is one of the most popular times for Victorians to hit the road. Whether you are heading to the coast, visiting grandparents, or going camping, the long weekend puts a lot of extra cars on the road. Here is how to stay safe and avoid a breakdown.
Get Your Car Checked Before You Go
Do not wait until Good Friday morning to discover your car has an issue. Book a quick check-up at least a week before Easter:
- Check all fluid levels
- Test the battery
- Inspect brakes and tyres
- Make sure all lights work
- Test the air conditioning
Plan for Traffic
Major routes out of Melbourne will be busy. The Princes Freeway to Gippsland, the Western Freeway to Ballarat, and the Hume to country Victoria all see significant congestion. Consider leaving early Thursday or late Friday to miss the worst of it.
Child Seat Safety
If you are travelling with young children, double-check that car seats are correctly installed and appropriate for their age and size. Victorian law requires:
- Rearward-facing restraint until at least 6 months
- Rearward or forward-facing restraint from 6 months to 4 years
- Forward-facing restraint or booster seat from 4 to 7 years
Combat Fatigue
Easter falls at the end of the school term when everyone is tired. Driver fatigue is a major factor in long weekend crashes. The 2-hour rule is not a suggestion — it is essential. Stop, stretch, have a coffee, and let the kids burn some energy.
Country Road Driving
Many Easter destinations involve country roads. Remember:
- Stick to the speed limit — country roads have hidden hazards
- Watch for wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk
- Be patient behind slower vehicles — overtaking on narrow roads is dangerous
- Gravel shoulders can pull your car off the road if you drift
Emergency Kit
Pack water, snacks, phone chargers, a torch, a first aid kit, and your roadside assistance details. Mobile coverage can be patchy in regional areas, so download offline maps before you leave.
Make sure your car is Easter-ready. Book a pre-holiday check at Heatherdale Automotive and travel with confidence.