Your guide to living well this December – Checklist for a stress free holiday

*The content is brought to you in partnership with Discovery Health Medical Scheme

December is traditionally SA’s biggest holiday season with many of us hitting the road to relax at one of our country’s many holiday destinations. Even if you are staying home this year, take time out with family or friends or hit the road on a day trip. Combine your road trip with a hike, cycle or healthy picnic or even stay over for a night or two.

Before your trip, follow our 4 tips for a safe and hassle-free trip

1. Check your insurance cover: Make sure your details are up to date and correct. Kill two birds with one stone and do your annual insurance update at the same time.
2. Get a pre-trip check over: Do this especially if you’re planning a longer drive. If your car is due for a service, rather get this sorted out before you leave. Keeping your car in top condition not only makes it easier to fix when something goes wrong, but also reduces your car’s emissions and fuel consumption.
3. Essential safety items for your car: Have the following items in your car – fully inflated spare wheel, wheel jack and spanner, two reflective triangles, jumper cables, a torch, a GPS, a bottle of water, snacks and a first aid kit. Essential first-aid kit items include adhesive bandages, gauze pads, safety pins, adhesive tape, antiseptic creams, cotton swabs, pain relievers, digital thermometer, tweezers, scissors, hand sanitizer and saline solution. For more serious injuries, include hot and cold packs, disposable gloves and mask, and anti-diarrheal medicine.
4. Save emergency numbers on your phone: Look at your medical roadside assistance cover and save the numbers you will need in case of a medical or road emergency. The numbers are usually on your membership cards or available online.

• The Discovery Health Medical Scheme offers the widest choice of health plans, all with unlimited private hospital cover and a range of benefits to suit your needs and your pocket. Visit www.discovery.co.za to find out more and get a quote in 60 seconds.