Why The Right Family Car Matters
Your vehicle is more than just a mode of transportation on these trips. It becomes an integral part of the experience, considering you will spend most of the time in the car. Think spacious interiors for comfort, safety features for peace of mind, and compatibility with your destination’s terrain.
If you’re new to planning road trips or simply seeking guidance on improving your car rental choices, this article will be insightful for you. Let’s delve deep into the essential tips on selecting the right rental car for family journeys, ensuring a safe and comfortable trip for all.
Things to Consider While Renting a Family Car
Safety
When embarking on a road trip, especially with elders or children in tow, safety should always be your top priority. Look for vehicles equipped with advanced safety features such as airbags, anti-lock braking systems (ABS), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), and electronic stability control. These technologies have become standard in many modern cars and can be lifesavers in unexpected situations.
Space & Size
Imagine being on the road for hours, crammed uncomfortably in a tight space. Doesn’t sound fun, does it? Hence, considering the car’s space and size is crucial. First, think about legroom. Everyone should have ample space to stretch out, especially on longer journeys.
The trunk’s size is equally important. It needs to accommodate not just luggage but other essentials like strollers, spare tyres, tools, or the souvenirs you might find along the way. Visiting densely populated areas, like Georgetown in Penang, can pose challenges for parking.
Therefore, the size of the car matters for such destinations. A smaller car provides more parking options, including parallel parking along the street.
Destination Terrain
Not all roads are created equal. If your journey involves city driving, a compact car that’s easy to manoeuvre and park might be your best bet.
But if your adventure is taking you off the beaten path, into the mountains or other rough terrains, then a more rugged vehicle is in order. Consider vehicles with 4×4 capabilities, higher ground clearances, and those designed to tackle less-than-perfect road conditions.
Fuel Efficiency
It’s easy to overlook, but the type of vehicle you choose can have a significant impact on your trip’s overall cost. Larger vehicles like SUVs or vans might offer more space and comfort, but they typically consume more fuel. Depending on your trip’s length, this can add up. It’s a delicate balance between comfort and economy.
Entertainment
While the journey is a big part of any road trip, keeping everyone entertained during those long hours on the road is crucial. The last thing we want on a family road trip is restless kids or elders feeling stiff and cramped.
Higher-end vehicles often boast advanced entertainment systems. Look for cars that offer smartphone connectivity, allowing you to stream music or podcasts directly from your device. If you’re traveling with kids, rear-seat entertainment systems allow them to stay entertained, making the journey smoother for everyone.
Lastly, in today’s digital age, ensuring the car has ample USB ports for charging is essential. Everyone will want to keep their devices charged, especially on longer trips.
Which Car Type is Best for Family Road Trips?
MPVs
When you hear ‘family car,’ the MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) often comes to mind, and for good reason! Designed with families at the forefront, MPVs typically offer spacious interiors, sliding side doors for easy access (even in tight parking spots), and a versatile seating arrangement. This means you can easily fold down seats for more storage or adjust them to fit everyone comfortably.
Many modern MPVs come equipped with cutting-edge safety features and entertainment systems. The generous legroom and headspace make them a favourite choice for longer journeys, ensuring everyone travels in comfort.
SUVs
For families who desire a mix of style, power, and space, SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles) are an excellent choice for family cars. These vehicles are designed to handle various terrains, making them perfect for both city explorations and off-road adventures.
Most SUVs provide ample boot space for luggage and feature higher ground clearances, which can be beneficial if you’re traversing rough terrains. Plus, the elevated driving position gives a clearer view of the road.
Another advantage is their advanced all-wheel-drive systems, ensuring stability even in challenging conditions. With a rugged exterior and a comfortable interior, SUVs are the best car for adventurous family road trips.
Vans
If your family road trip includes more than just your immediate family — think grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins — then a van might be your best bet. Vans, especially those with extended seating capacities, can comfortably accommodate larger groups.
While they might not have the style factor of an MPV or SUV, they more than makeup for it in space. The expansive interiors ensure everyone has a comfortable seat, and there’s plenty of room for luggage, camping gear, and more.
Many car rental companies offer vans that come equipped with modern amenities, ensuring that even on a packed vehicle, everyone can travel in comfort.
Wrapping Up
In the end, the car you choose plays a pivotal role in the quality of your family road trip. So, take your time, weigh in on the factors and things to consider, and assess your specific requirements and the nature of your journey before choosing the best family car for your road trip. Remember, it’s not just about the destination but the journey, too, and the right car can make all the difference!And if you’re looking for that flawless car rental experience, look no further than WAHDAH. Our wide variety ensures you find the ideal family car for your journey at a competitive rate. So, pack those bags, rent the perfect family car from WAHDAH, and let the adventures begin!