As we approach 2026, one travel trend is becoming increasingly clear. South Africans are opting to drive rather than fly.
Due to fluctuating airfares, unpredictable airline schedules, and rising travel costs, many families are reevaluating their holiday plans. Rather than dealing with airport hassles and last-minute price hikes, they’re choosing to load up the car and travel to familiar destinations within a comfortable driving distance.
Driving to vacation spots isn’t just more convenient; it’s also a smart choice.
The Practical Benefits of Drive-To Holidays
For many travellers, the main advantage is the budget. By excluding flights from your travel plans, you can eliminate airfare prices, avoid baggage fees, skip airport transfers and parking fees and reduce the risk of flight disruptions.
In South Africa, we are fortunate to have a wide variety of destinations accessible by road. From Gauteng, you can reach the mountain retreats of Mpumalanga in just a few hours. If you’re in Durban, the South or North Coast is practically at your doorstep. From Cape Town, the scenic Garden Route escapes are just a short drive away.
Driving to holiday destinations offers families greater flexibility. They can leave early, stop along the way, and pack everything they need. There are no liquid restrictions or boarding queues, just the open road.
Why Local Holidays Feel Safer and More Predictable
Driving to holiday destinations is becoming increasingly popular due to its predictability.
Air travel worldwide has been affected by rising fuel costs and schedule changes. While flying will always have its advantages, local road trips offer greater control.
You choose when you leave, how you travel, and at what pace you go. This level of certainty is becoming a valuable aspect of modern travel.
For Points Club members, this trend aligns perfectly with prepaid holiday planning. When your accommodations are already secured and your destination is within reach, planning your holiday becomes much less stressful.
South Africa’s Best Drive-To Escapes
South Africa’s geography makes it ideal for exploring.
Mpumalanga & The Lowveld
Mountain lodges, scenic passes, waterfalls, and wildlife reserves make this region perfect for Gauteng-based travellers seeking nature without a long journey.
KwaZulu-Natal South and North Coast
The South Coast from Margate to Uvongo and St Lucia, on the North Coast, are some of the most popular family holiday destinations in the country. They offer warm oceans and Blue Flag beaches, making it ideal for summer road trips.
Limpopo & Bushveld Retreats
Limpopo offers game drives, spa weekends, and peaceful bushveld getaways all within driving distance. Perfect for a road trip and a reset.
Western Cape Road Trips
Capetonians looking for coastal escapes can enjoy the Garden Route and the West Coast. These regions offer scenic drives, charming towns, and unforgettable landscapes, making them ideal for road trips.
More Space, More Flexibility, More Comfort
One of the main advantages of driving to your holiday destination is the experience you have upon arrival. Self-catering resorts provide full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, braai facilities and on-site amenities like swimming pools and activity areas
Families can prepare and eat meals together, and enjoy the comfort of home, without the restrictions of a hotel room. This flexibility is ideal for families who prefer longer stays instead of quick, rushed weekends.
International travel was often viewed as something to aspire to. However, many South Africans are beginning to appreciate the value of exploring their own country.
Our landscapes are world-class, our wildlife is unmatched, our coastline is spectacular, and our hospitality is exceptional.
Driving to holiday destinations offers affordability, flexibility, and emotional value. They allow families to preserve their holiday time while wisely managing their budgets.
Local Travel Is Not a Compromise – It’s a Smart Choice
International travel was often viewed as something to aspire to. However, many South Africans are beginning to appreciate the value of exploring their own country.
Our landscapes are world-class, our wildlife is unmatched, our coastline is spectacular, and our hospitality is exceptional.
Driving to holiday destinations offers affordability, flexibility, and emotional value. They allow families to preserve their holiday time while wisely managing their budgets.
The Road Ahead for 2026
As global travel trends continue to evolve, local holidays are no longer seen as merely a “backup plan.” They have become the main strategy for travel.
The real travel trend of 2026 is travel that feels simpler, more grounded, and more intentional. Sometimes, the best journeys don’t require a boarding pass, just a full tank of gas and a sense of adventure.
Call us on 012 492 1230 and plan your next road trip.