Our Self-drive Tips

Head of Sales Ben Line draws from experience to give his top tips for anyone embarking on a self-drive holiday in Latin America: an extremely rewarding way to see the continent but also one that requires some forward planning!

1. Check the vehicle before setting off: When picking up your car it’s worth checking it over thoroughly before you drive away. As well as the usual checks for dents and damage it’s a good idea to make sure your lights, indicators and windscreen wipers are all working perfectly and that the tyres are in good condition. Also make sure to check you know which side the petrol cap is on and what type of fuel the car takes!

2. Rules of the road: Before setting out on your journey, make sure you have checked on local road laws such as speed limits, right-turn rules, roundabouts and so on.

3. Carry cash: Carry some loose change for toll roads, telephones or parking.

4. Learn the lingo: Before you go try learning a few basic direction-related words in Spanish:

...as well as what the most important road signs mean:

In addition to the above, ensure you also have a phrasebook with you in case you find yourself in a tricky situation. You never know when you might need some help!

5. Licenses: Although not officially required, you might want to get an international driver's license just to be on the safe side. Valid for a year and available at the Post Office, it’s a useful piece of documentation to have, particularly for any road side police checks.

6. Petrol: Always fill up when in a city as petrol stations in some areas outside of the larger cities and towns can be few and far between.

7. Watch out for signs: Road signs tend to be located just before the turnings they designate so driving at a slower pace helps not to miss them (especially on the motorways where slip roads can be very short). Roadworks are often not signposted ahead so be prepared for lane changes without much warning.

8. Safety: If you find yourself on an uneven, unpaved or bumpy road, reduce your speed and take your time.
Try not to drive too close to the edge of gravel roads.
On dusty roads make sure you stay a safe distance from the vehicle in front to ensure you have good visibility.

9. Emergencies: Although an unlikely occurrence it’s worth making sure you know who to contact in the event of an emergency (for example if you have booked with us, keep a note of our 24-hour emergency contact number). It’s also worth reminding yourself before you go of how to change a wheel, check the oil and fill up the radiator.

10. Pack the necessities: If you’re on a long stretch of the journey make sure you have some food and water and ensure that your mobile phone is charged and topped up.
For obvious reasons, don’t leave without checking you have a map and directions!
Always keep some water in the car in case you need to fill up the windscreen washer or radiator.

Relax, enjoy and take your time! The journey is half the fun of a road trip so make sure you leave enough time to stop along the way and take in the scenery.

Browse our range of Self-drive holidays.