Wicked Campers' Practical Tips for a Safe Journey

Embarking on a campervan adventure in South Africa is an exhilarating experience—one that promises breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and unforgettable encounters. Sure, Africa’s got its quirks. But guess what? So do you! So, pack your street smarts, your sixth sense, and that lucky rabbit’s foot. Common sense is your golden ticket to a drama-free escapade. Trust us, it’s like having a secret handshake with the universe.

Our safety tips are drawn from the collective wisdom of locals and our own team members. Remember, these precautions are not meant to paint a grim picture of Africa; rather, we list them to empower you to make informed choices. Think of them as your compass, guiding you away from potential pitfalls. In fact, by following the simple advice outlined below, you’ll be well-equipped to avoid 95% of common issues faced by tourists and travelers.

So, buckle up, embrace the adventure, and let’s explore the wonders of South Africa!

• Never leave anything of value in plain sight inside the vehicle, whether you are in it or not.
• When travelling for the day, always leave in the morning and ensure you arrive at your destination in the afternoon. What Google says in terms of directions and how long a journey is great, but reality can be much different.
• Do not carry all your cash in one place and do not keep your money with your credit cards.
• Always carry enough cash for a full tank of fuel and small emergencies. EFTPOS or card facilities will regularly be out of order and cash will be the only solution.
• If your petrol is on half or below and you are near a fuel station, stop and fill up. In certain areas they run out of fuel or due to power cuts the petrol bowsers may not work.
• Always have a good idea of where you are in case of a breakdown or when seeking directions.
• When going out at night, be sure to tell managers of your accommodation/camp grounds where you are going and what time you expect to be back.
• Take the opportunity to always recharge your phone when you have stopped somewhere.
• Do not pickup hitch hikers.
• When drawing money from an ATM, go together so when one is drawing the other is watching behind.
• Take care of your Camper and it will take care of you. Follow instructions given at time of pickup and you will have a hassle free Adventure mechanically.Every Camper has a name and we love them and care for them accordingly. We expect the same of our fantastic customers.
• DO NOT drive at night or on roads not suitable for your vehicle. Getting stuck in the middle of nowhere does not make for a great adventure.
• Be aware that you are no longer in a first world country. Services in many of the places you travel are not the same as back home. Patience and understanding works well in Africa. No matter what you plan to do on your Adventure, you are going to experience ‘Africa Time’.
• When dealing with any altercation, regardless of the situation, we strongly advise against yelling or swearing. Stick to your guns and calmly repeat yourself.

So, with all that mind - buckle up, crank the tunes, and let’s ride. South Africa awaits, and it’s got more twists than a rollercoaster at midnight.