The 2025/2026 Christmas and New Year (Nataru) holidays are a season of laughter, warm reunions, and long-awaited journeys home. We visit parents we miss, hug siblings we rarely see, and promise ourselves that next year, we will do even better.
However, when the holiday ends, reality begins again—with long queues, packed toll roads, unpredictable weather, and tired drivers trying to get back to the city at the same time.
And in moments like this, one simple truth matters most: arriving safely is more important than arriving quickly.
So before you start the engine and head back after your holiday break, let’s talk about practical, life-saving safe driving tips—because your family is waiting for you at home.
Check Your Body and Your Vehicle First — Because Safety Begins Before the Engine Starts
First of all, let’s pause for a moment.
Are you truly ready to drive?
According to Astra Infra’s official recommendations, the most important factor in road safety is not the car—it is the driver. Therefore, make sure you are physically fit, well-rested, focused, and emotionally calm before starting a long trip.
If you stayed up late celebrating New Year’s Eve, don’t force yourself to drive early in the morning. Instead, rest properly. Even a few hours of quality sleep can significantly improve concentration and reaction time.
Next, check your vehicle thoroughly:
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Tire pressure (including the spare tire)
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Engine condition
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Brake system function
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Lights and indicators
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Windshield wipers (especially during rainy season)
Because honestly, a small mechanical issue on an empty road might be manageable. However, the same issue in heavy toll traffic can turn dangerous in seconds.
If you are unsure about your vehicle’s condition, consider using a professional vehicle inspection or roadside assistance service before departure. Many trusted automotive service providers now offer pre-trip safety checks at affordable rates. Investing in a quick inspection today could prevent costly repairs—or worse—tomorrow.
Remember, safety is not an expense. It is protection for the people you love.
Prepare Fuel, E-Money, and Ferry Tickets — Smart Planning Saves You from Stress
Now, let’s move to the next important step.
Long traffic jams during Nataru are not unusual. Therefore, preparation becomes your best friend.
Before entering the toll road, ensure:
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Your fuel tank is sufficiently filled (or your EV battery is fully charged).
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Your electronic money card balance is enough for toll transactions.
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You know the location of rest areas, gas stations, and top-up points.
Why does this matter?
Because running out of fuel or having insufficient e-money balance in the middle of heavy traffic creates unnecessary stress. And stress reduces focus. And reduced focus increases risk.
If you plan to cross by ferry, prepare your tickets in advance. Ferry tickets can only be purchased through the Ferizy app or the official website ferizy.com. Therefore, don’t wait until you reach the port.
In addition, consider using navigation and traffic monitoring apps that provide real-time updates. Premium traffic monitoring services often give more accurate congestion alerts, helping you avoid peak return flow hours.
Furthermore, if toll road rest areas are full, Astra Infra advises drivers to exit through the nearest toll gate to rest or refuel. Thanks to the closed payment system, you can re-enter without additional fees. This is a smart alternative instead of forcing yourself to continue driving while exhausted.
Because sometimes, the safest decision is to stop.
Manage Fatigue, Speed, and Timing — Because Discipline Saves Lives
Let’s be honest.
Holiday return journeys are exhausting. The road feels longer. The traffic feels slower. Your patience feels thinner.
However, discipline is what separates safe drivers from risky ones.
If you feel sleepy, don’t negotiate with your body. Pull over and rest. Even a 20-minute power nap can restore alertness significantly.
Moreover, avoid peak return flow times whenever possible. Plan your departure strategically—either earlier or later than the crowd. Planning ahead reduces pressure and improves overall travel comfort.
In rainy conditions, reduce your speed. Experts recommend not exceeding 70 km/h during heavy rain to maintain control and safe braking distance.
Remember:
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Increase following distance.
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Avoid sudden braking.
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Use headlights appropriately.
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Stay focused—no texting while driving.
As Rinaldi, COO of Astra Infra Group, emphasized, operational measures have been prepared to ensure optimal toll road services during Nataru. However, smooth traffic flow depends not only on infrastructure—but also on driver discipline.
And here is the heart of it all:
Your family doesn’t need you to arrive fast.
They need you to arrive safe.
Why Professional Roadside & Emergency Services Are Worth Considering
Finally, let’s talk about something many drivers overlook: emergency preparedness.
Despite careful planning, unexpected things can still happen:
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Tire blowouts
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Engine overheating
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Battery failure
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Minor accidents
Therefore, subscribing to a reliable roadside assistance service can provide peace of mind during peak travel seasons like Christmas and New Year.
With 24/7 emergency support, towing services, on-site repairs, and accident handling assistance, you reduce the risk of being stranded in high-traffic conditions.
Instead of panicking on the shoulder of a busy toll road, you can call trained professionals who respond quickly and safely.
Because in critical moments, having support makes all the difference.
Drive Home with Responsibility, Arrive with Gratitude
The Nataru holiday is about connection. About warmth. About being together.
So as you return from your holiday trip, choose caution over speed. Preparation over improvisation. Discipline over impulse.
Check your body.
Check your vehicle.
Plan your route.
Control your speed.
Rest when tired.
And if needed, invest in professional vehicle inspection and roadside assistance services for maximum protection.
Because the most beautiful ending to any holiday story is simple:
You arrive home safely. 🚗✨