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What to prepare before going on a 'mudik' road trip
If you're planning to join the mudik crowd by road tripping this year, here are some tips to help you prepare for whatever happens during the journey.
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Prepare yourself to face traffic diversions along your mudik route when the traffic volume and congestion is high. (Kompas.com/Kristianto Purnomo - Ari Prasetyo)
M
em>Mudik, or the annual exodus of people from cities to smaller cities or rural areas to gather with their family to celebrate Idul Fitri, is part of the local Ramadhan tradition.
If you're planning to join the mudik crowd by road tripping this year, here are some tips to help you prepare for whatever happens during the journey.
Make use of rest areas and facilities
Those taking the highway can easily find rest areas throughout the journey. Though each offers different options, they usually have a gas station, restaurants, convenience stores, coffee shops, toilets and prayer rooms.
If you happen to use the toilet, do not forget to bring small change (in case you have to pay for the service) and a pouch containing toiletries such as tissue paper, wet tissues, face wash and liquid soap. If necessary, bring a facial spray to stay fresh and dry shampoo to keep your hair moist.
Several days prior to and after Lebaran, posko mudik (rest facilities) are also available along mudik routes 24 hours a day. They usually provide a resting place, a message service and a service station where you can check your vehicle and make sure it's still in good condition.
(Read also: 'Mudik' in style with this private helicopter)
Anticipate traffic diversions
Prepare yourself to face traffic diversions that could get set up along your mudik route when the traffic volume and congestion increases. Last year, one such traffic diversion was implemented at the Maya intersection in Pantura, Central Java.
To anticipate this, keep yourself updated with the latest traffic news so you'll know where the alternative routes are. Also, use online map applications to find out the alternative routes, such as Google Maps, Waze, Sygic or LewatMana.com.
Stay happy during traffic jams
During the exodus, the 116.7-kilometer Cipali (Cikopo-Palimanan) Highway in West Java will be filled with an immense amount of people wanting to visit their hometowns. Last year, more than 27,000 cars reportedly entered the Cikopo Highway alone.
During traffic jams, consider doing fun activities such as reading a book or browsing the internet to get traffic updates. For those traveling with children, keep them entertained by bringing toys such as puzzles, coloring books and other practical yet educational toys.
How to avoid accidents
Last year, over 3,000 accidents were reported during mudik. Among the causes were sleepy or tiresome drivers, damaged roads (that can still be found on some mudik routes), bad driving habits and poor roadside lighting that makes road trips more dangerous at night.
Always check your vehicle’s engine, tires, brakes and oil prior the trip. Prepare a tool kit in case your car needs a quick repair. Also, always drive carefully and get some rest ever 10 hours of driving at most.
(Read also: What to prepare before you leave for 'mudik')
Keep your stomach full
During mudik, many eateries will be available along popular routes such as Pantura, but it is still recommended to bring your own snacks and food to keep you energized in case you get stuck in a traffic jam.
Parents traveling with children can prepare simple yet healthy snacks such as biscuits and fruits. (kes)
