Travelling is a great way to discover the world; however, some things aren’t the same as at home. In Australia, we drive on the left side of the road. If you have booked a car rental in Australia and are not familiar with driving on the left, there are a few things you can prepare.
Driving on the left side of the road
Driving on the opposite side of the road doesn’t need to be daunting. The fundamentals are the same and with time, concentration and patience, you’ll be a pro in no time. Here are some tips:
Familiarise yourself with the vehicle
Before you start, take the time to familiarise yourself with the car. It’s best to rent a similar make and model of the car you drive at home. Most car hire companies offer a variety of vehicles from sedans to SUVs allowing you to choose freely.
Additionally, you need to familiarise yourself with the car’s controls. These include the pedals, buttons, and other features. Knowing where everything is can help you concentrate on driving more.
Avoid distractions
When you’re driving, avoid any distractions. That includes your phone, tiredness or anything else that can impair your ability to drive down the road. It’s best to stay alert and be able to push through traffic.
Add a layer of caution
Add an extra layer of caution when driving. Using mirrors will be a big challenge for you. That’s because the mirrors will be the opposite of what you’re familiar with. So, take it easy and don’t rush to your destination. Until you’re used to it, allow yourself at least an extra hour of travel time.
Pedestrians on the left
For people used to driving on the right side of the road, watching out for pedestrians on that side is the norm. In Australia and other left-hand driving countries, pedestrians come from the left. To avoid incidents, train yourself to check the left side of the road for any pedestrians crossing the street.
Give yourself enough time, and soon enough, you’ll have the confidence it takes to drive through Australian streets with ease.
Once you get the hang of driving in Australia, consider getting add-ons for your rental car. Things like excess reduction, GPS, and car seats if you have kids in tow.