Since it has been 2 years since most of us balik kampung for Raya, the number of cars on the road keeps increasing as Raya approaches. As most of us are still working and will probably be leaving tomorrow, the highways will probably be at their maximum capacity with the long weekend and Monday is a holiday.
So if you will be making this harrowing journey back to your kampung, here are some of the tips on how to avoid the traffic jams during the Raya season:
#1 Avoid travelling during peak hours
If you live in the city then you know that in the morning when everyone is otw to work and in the evenings when everyone is otw back from work are the worst times to be on the road. If you live in the city and are travelling out of the city back to your kampung, these times are a HUGE NO! Try going early in the morning before anyone else is awake or late at night but make sure you have enough sleep!
If you're using the PLUS Highways, please refer to this image depicting the best times to begin your journey back home:
#2 Use your GPS and look for alternative routes
When travelling long distances, most people would opt for the highway because it is allegedly the fasted way to travel but since everyone will be crowding the highways, it will probably be super jammed up! So, try to find out if there are any old roads you can use to reach your destination and alternate between the highways and the old roads. You might think it will make your journey longer but it's better to be moving rather than to be stuck in standstill traffic for hours.
Plus most of the old roads have scenic views of the thick rainforests, and never-ending paddy fields and if you're lucky you might come across some animal crossing!
#3 Stay up to date with what's happening on the road
Having a multitude of cars on the highway can be dangerous as it can also cause accidents which will cause more traffic jams, so make sure to service your vehicles before leaving and also drive safely and stay calm throughout your journey. Have your GPS on so that you can stay up to date on any accidents or road closures on your way to avoid being stuck in a jam.
#4 Use a motorbike
Using a motorbike is one of the easiest ways to avoid traffic on the highway but it is also very dangerous. When there is standstill traffic, tensions are rising high and cars can be very unpredictable. Some may even speed through the emergency lane so make sure you stay alert and safe if you decide to use a bike.
#5 Opt for public transportation
Being the one driving in a traffic jam can be very stressful, so why not try public transportation instead? Avoid buses since you will still be on the roads with buses, but try out our wonderful train services or even take a flight home! Malayan Railways Limited offers you a classy train ride with food, toilets and phone charging ports on board so sit back, relax and catch your favourite Netflix show!
Where will you be travelling to this Raya? Share your answers in the comments section!
Selamat Hari Raya & have a safe journey back home!
