Before you start packing for a holiday, ask yourself if you know how to travel. Should you fly or drive? Here’s how to decide:
The time factor
It’s not just about the flight time but you still have to factor in the hours you clock up driving to the airport, finding a parking bay, checking in, going through security checks, boarding and exiting the plane, as well as waiting for a lift. And whilst flying at least allows you to multitask in airport lounges, you’re at the whim of airlines.
The cost factor
Even considering car and tyre wear-and-tear costs, driving will almost always come out on top, unless you have rewards miles, loyalty points or you get a deal on your plane ticket. But it makes sense to check!
Remember the price of flying entails a lot more than just the airfare (that currently comes at an exceptionally high cost). In addition, most airlines charge extra if you’re flying with a pet, and that’s if they’re allowed at all.
So, barring the petrol and possible toll costs, it seems driving might make more financial sense. And if you’re travelling with your family or a friend, that tips the maths even more towards using your wheels.
The hassle factor
Pick your poison: flight delays or traffic jams? The chance of a flight delay is high. Statistics show that only 80% of domestic flights are on time. You may also be confronted with unexpected travel delays, flight cancellations, lost luggage, along with other travel hassles.
For road trips, departure time matters. If you can drive early in the morning, late at night, or during low-traffic hours, your trip should be easier. Weekend, holiday and rush-hour traffic will slow your roll — and might tip the balance.
But for some, they’d rather be stuck in an airport than stuck in their car.
The fun factor
Most people enjoy driving for six or eight hours instead, as long as there’s good music, a podcast, or a talkative friend or partner riding shotgun. Plus, you get to enjoy the potentially great scenery and pitstops.
The eco-factor
Many people are now considering the environmental cost of their travels and choosing their transportation accordingly. Also, some companies allow you to purchase carbon “offsets” intended to mitigate the carbon emissions caused by your ground or air travel.
Driving is, unsurprisingly, the greener way to go but your vehicle and the route you take could make a big difference. Being behind the wheel of a fuel-efficient car generates far less greenhouse-gas emissions (eg 104 kg carbon dioxide) as opposed to flying which generates around 184kg of CO2 per passenger. If you drive an electric or hybrid car, or if you have several passengers, the environmental impact of driving is even less.
Weighing all the factors
Some people don’t mind the lengthy waits. Others consider the journey itself worthy of savouring. As for your destination? How about we make that choice easier for you…
Stay
- Stay at any Premier Hotel or Resort in South Africa for an epic holiday.
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