The Motorist Guide on a Stress-Free Balik Kampung: Beat Jams, Save Fuel, Drive Safe

Hari Raya is a time of joy and reunion, and for many Malaysians, that means one thing—balik kampung.  Every year, thousands of vehicles hit the roads, leading to massive traffic jams and increased vehicle breakdowns. To ensure a smooth and stress-free journey home, it's essential to plan ahead, monitor fuel prices, and conduct a thorough car maintenance check-up before setting off. With the Motorist App, you can make your journey more efficient and avoid unnecessary road troubles.

1. Beating the Raya Traffic Jam: Plan Your Route Wisely
Traffic congestion during Raya is inevitable, but proper planning can help you avoid the worst bottlenecks. Here’s what you can do:

• Use Traffic Monitoring Tools: 
  Stay updated with real-time traffic conditions using the Motorist App’s Traffic Camera and 
  Feed feature. This allows you to monitor congestion levels on major highways 
  and make informed decisions on alternative routes.
• Check Checkpoint Conditions: 
  If you’re traveling between Singapore and Malaysia, the Checkpoint Feature provides 
  live updates on congestion at the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints.
• Travel During Off-Peak Hours: 
  Try to avoid traveling on peak days and opt for early mornings or late nights for a 
  smoother ride.
• Plan for Rest Stops: 
  Long hours on the road can be tiring. Schedule stops at R&Rs to refresh yourself 
  and check your vehicle.
  
  

2. Plan Your Fuel Budget Before the Journey
With fuel prices fluctuating, ensuring that you don’t overspend on petrol is crucial. Here’s how you can manage your fuel expenses smartly:

• Compare Fuel Prices: 
  Use the Fuel Price Feature on the Motorist App to check the latest petrol prices 
  across different stations in Malaysia and Singapore.
• Refuel Before Peak Travel Days: 
  The Raya season often brings long queues at petrol stations—top up early to avoid delays.
• Maximize Fuel Efficiency: 
  Maintain a steady speed, avoid excessive braking, and reduce unnecessary 
  load to get the most mileage out of your tank.

3. Essential Car Maintenance Checks Before Balik Kampung
Long-distance travel puts extra strain on your car, making a pre-trip check-up essential. Ensure your vehicle is in top condition with these steps:

• Engine & Oil Check: 
  Inspect engine oil levels and ensure it’s clean to prevent overheating.
  If the oil is dark or sludgy, consider changing it before your trip.
• Battery Health: 
  A weak battery can leave you stranded. Check for corrosion on terminals, 
  test the voltage, and replace if necessary.
• Tyre Condition & Safety 
  • Tread Depth:
    Insert a 20-sen coin into the tyre grooves, if you can see the edges of the ‘20’,
    it’s time for a replacement.
  • Tyre Pressure:
    Check your tyre pressure using a gauge before the journey. Underinflated tyres 
    increase fuel consumption, while overinflated ones reduce grip.
  • Spare Tyre Check:
    Ensure your spare tyre is properly inflated and in good condition, along with a functional 
    jack and tools.
• Brake System: 
  Test your brakes for responsiveness. If you hear squeaking or feel vibrations, get them 
  checked. Also, top up brake fluid if needed.
• Lights & Wipers: 
  Ensure all headlights, brake lights, and signal lights are working for night driving. 
  Replace worn-out wiper blades to handle sudden downpours.

If you're facing any car maintenance hassles and considering selling, list your car 
on the Motorist Sell Car platform for a hassle-free experience, including a free car valuation.

4. Drive Smart and Stay Alert
While preparation is key, practicing safe driving habits is just as important:

• Keep a Safe Distance: 
  Maintain a safe gap from other vehicles to avoid sudden collisions.
• Obey Speed Limits: 
  Avoid speeding to reduce accident risks.
• Take Breaks: 
  Fatigue can be dangerous. Stop for a rest if you feel drowsy.
  
  

5. Final Checklist:

• Emergency & Safety Kit
  First Aid Kit: Bandages, antiseptic, painkillers, and motion sickness pills.
  Torchlight & Extra Batteries: Essential for nighttime emergencies.
  Reflective Warning Triangle: For roadside breakdowns.
  Power Bank & Car Charger: Keep your phone charged for navigation and emergencies.
  
• Important Documents
  Driving License & IC/Passport: Ensure they are valid
  Touch 'n Go / RFID Card: Loaded for toll payments
  Cash & Credit/Debit Cards: Some places may have limited card payment options
  
• Raya Essentials
  Duit Raya Packets: Ready for family and friends
  Traditional Outfits & Footwear: Baju Melayu, Baju Kurung, or your preferred attire
  Gift Hampers & Snacks: Perfect for visiting relatives
  

6. Make Your Raya Journey Stress-Free with Motorist
Balik kampung should be about celebrating with loved ones, not dealing with car troubles. By leveraging Motorist’s features like real-time Traffic Feed, Fuel Price Alerts, Sell Car, and more, you can have a smooth and stress-free journey home.

Download the Motorist App today and make your Raya travel safer and smarter!

Selamat Hari Raya, drive safe, and have a wonderful balik kampung!

Read More: 2025 Jaecoo J7 PHEV Now in Malaysia – Sell Your Car & Upgrade!

Download the Motorist App now. Designed by drivers for drivers, this all-in-one app lets you receive the latest traffic updates, gives you access to live traffic cameras, and helps you manage vehicle related matters.