When traveling abroad on vacation with your family, navigating a foreign country with foreign laws and customs can be somewhat daunting. Safety, especially where children are concerned, is always at the forefront of our minds.
Most of us who have vacationed in the United Arab Emirates with our families know that the safest, and definitely most convenient way of getting around in this fascinating country is to rent a car. Usually, the best choice is to rent a spacious SUV or minivan to accommodate the whole family. However, for those who want an exhilarating driving experience, considering a convertible car rental Dubai can add an extra touch of excitement to your family’s adventures.
Let’s take a look at some safety essentials and points to consider when selecting a family-friendly car for your next UAE family vacation.
Tips for Choosing the Right Vehicle
Space and Comfort
Space and comfort are major factors when choosing a vehicle for a family vacation in the UAE. Select a vehicle with ample space to accommodate your family members comfortably, ensuring everyone has enough legroom and personal space. Children tend to get restless when spending a lot of time in the car, which will be made worse when seating arrangements are cramped. SUVs and minivans are popular choices for family travel due to their generous interior space and flexible seating configurations.
Reliability
In a region known for its extreme weather conditions, reliability is key when choosing a family-friendly car. Be sure to rent a well-maintained vehicle from a reliable car hire company to minimize the risk of breakdowns or mechanical issues during your vacation.
Safety Essentials
When traveling with your family in the UAE by car, there are a few important factors you should keep in mind to enjoy a safe and stress-free holiday:
Maps and Navigation
First things first. It’s easy to get lost in a foreign country where the layouts of cities and highway routes are unfamiliar, and especially when traveling in remote areas with limited signage.
The best way to find your way around and avoid getting lost is to use a GPS navigation system. You can either use a standalone GPS device or install a reliable GPS app on your smartphone. These apps also provide useful info about traffic conditions, road closures, the nearest gas station, rest stops, etc.
Also always have an old-school printed map or road atlas on hand as a backup in case of mobile network failures, especially in remote areas where signals might be weak.
Hydration and Snacks
Car journeys often mean long periods between rest stops or access to food or refreshments. Keep in mind that the UAE is a desert country with often scorching-hot weather conditions, so be sure to keep your family hydrated by packing plenty of water bottles and electrolyte-rich drinks. Also have a variety of snacks on hand, especially for children. Snacks such as energy bars, cookies, and crisps will keep those hunger pangs at bay.
Rest Stops and Breaks
Make use of regular rest stops to stretch your legs, use restroom facilities, and allow children to release pent-up energy. Take advantage of the various designated rest areas along major highways or choose a scenic spot to enjoy a family picnic.
First Aid Kit
Pack a well-stocked first aid kit for those unexpected mishaps, especially where children are involved. Include pain relievers, antihistamines, and any prescription medications required by family members.
Emergency Contact Information
Make a list of emergency contact numbers at the outset of your vacation in case of accidents or breakdowns. Your list should include roadside assistance services and your accommodation’s contact information.
Flashlight
Include a flashlight with extra batteries in your emergency kit for nighttime or low-light situations. A headlamp can be particularly useful for hands-free activities.
Portable Phone Charger
Always carry a fully charged portable power bank to keep your mobile devices powered throughout your journey in order to stay connected, especially if you’re using a GPS app on your smartphone to find your way around.
Blankets and Warm Clothes
Although the desert can be swelteringly hot by day, temperatures can drop dramatically at night. Be sure to have some blankets and warm clothes on hand to keep your family warm if you’re out and about late at night, or in case of a vehicle breakdown in a remote area.
Personal Identification and Important Documents
Keep copies of essential documents such as passports, travel insurance policies, and vehicle registration papers in a folder or pouch in the glove compartment. You can also store digital copies of these documents on your mobile device for quick access in case of emergency.
Keeping Young children Occupied
As every parent knows from experience, keeping children occupied during long car journeys can be challenging. Here are some ways to keep children occupied and entertained during extended car trips:
Books and Activities
To keep your children occupied, pack some coloring books, storybooks, puzzles, or tablets with preloaded games.
Road Games
Play games that the whole family can participate in. Time-honored games like “I Spy,” “20 Questions,” and “License Plate Bingo” can keep children entertained for hours.
Audiobooks and Music
Audiobooks and music can also provide a welcome distraction. Lively music or an interesting audiobook will entertain the whole family and shorten the journey.
Final Thoughts
When going on a family adventure to the fascinating UAE, safety and comfort are key. With a reliable and spacious vehicle, a GPS app to guide you, and plenty of rest stops, you can navigate the roads with confidence and enjoy a memorable family vacation.
