Rest

Always make sure you have had adequate sleep before driving, regardless of the length of your trip.

If you skip your usual amount of sleep, you will accumulate a sleep debt. When we have a sleep debt, our tendency to fall asleep the next day increases – including when you are driving. A sleep debt can only be erased by having more sleep.

We know that sometimes things can happen outside our control and you may not get enough sleep; however, if you can avoid driving when tired – its 100% worth it.

Avoid driving when you would normally be sleeping

We are programmed by our body’s circadian rhythms to sleep at night and be awake during the day. This means that in night-time hours, we are not able to accomplish things at the same standard as during the day.  Older drivers tend to have more fatigue-related crashes during the afternoon siesta hours. Try to avoid driving at these times and watch out for early warning signs.

Plan to take regular rest breaks

The Campervan & Motorhome Club of Australia (CMCA) has a great geographical tool, GeoWiki X, that can help you navigate and plan your trips. GeoWiki X is available as an app on iOS and Android devices, as well as being available via the web. It has 200,000 points of interest including rest areas and places to stay.

CMCA also has an RV Friendly Town (RVFT) Program. An RVFT will have appropriate RV parking within the town centre and provision of short term, low cost overnight parking for self-contained vehicles.

Pull over for a break in a safe place

Hopefully, you have planned regular stops for your trip; however, if you are noticing the signs of fatigue, make sure you pull over somewhere safe. Rest areas are ideal.

Arrange to share the driving

Sharing the driving responsibility is an ideal way to avoid excessive fatigue. We recommend if you have a regular travelling companion, that you both have the ability to drive your RV. Unfortunately, it is a common occurrence to have only one person take on the driving responsibility. If this person becomes unwell and the passenger is not able or experienced enough to drive the RV, you may find yourself stuck!

Take a nap, 20 minutes work best

If you are experiencing the signs of fatigue – pull over and take a nap! A 20-minute nap works best.