No matter where you're heading too this summer, if you're travelling by car or motorcycle take five minutes out to plan ahead.

Given Kiwi's bad track record for vehicular fatalities over holiday periods the NZ Transport Authority have compiled a few tips to ensure you arrive and return from your destination safely.

The NZ Transport Authority have compiled a list of tips to ensure motorists and passengers get to and from their destinations in one piece and a smile on their faces. Photo: File

The NZTA says traffic on the open road increases sharply during peak holiday periods and drivers have to share it with a range of vehicles; from recreational cyclists to campervans and boats being towed.

Research shows tailgating is one of the most annoying things you can do as a driver and it's extremely unsafe too, so always keep at least a 2-second gap between you and the vehicle in front.

'This gives you a safe stopping distance if the vehicle in front of you stops suddenly,” says the NZTA. 'We all make mistakes sometimes, but mistakes on the road can have serious or even deadly consequences.”

'Staying alert, being courteous and driving to the conditions are all key elements of a safe journey for you and your passengers this summer.”

THE NZTA's TOP TIPS FOR SAFE SUMMER DRIVING:

Plan in advance of your trip. This includes getting your vehicle checked before heading out and plan to avoid peak traffic where you can.

Make sure you give yourself enough time to for plenty of rest or sightseeing breaks along the way – it's your holiday after all so why not make the journey an enjoyable part of it.

Drive to the conditions and this isn't just about the weather, it's the road you're on, traffic, your vehicle and load, your speed and following distance, plus adjusting for rain and winds.

Long trips are also tiring so watch out for fatigue as it can be deadly if you're behind the wheel.

Get yourself a good night's sleep beforehand, plan in advance where you'll take breaks along the way, and be aware of any medication you're taking that might affect your driving.

Keep your cool! Holiday driving can be frustrating with busy roads, stifling heat and restless kids in the car.

So please, be courteous and patient while on the roads, don't get provoked by other drivers' aggressive behaviour and wait to overtake until you reach a passing lane or can see clearly ahead.

It's also a good idea to take games, books, DVDs or electronics to keep the kids occupied and out of your hair along the way.

Most importantly please buckle everyone up, don't let your family holiday be marred by tragedy simply because someone didn't buckle up.

If you're the driver you are legally responsible for making sure all passengers under the age of 15 are securely restrained with either a safety belt or child restraint.

Children must be properly buckled up by an approved child restraint until their 7th birthday.

It's important to remember that we all play a part in making our roads safer for everyone using them.

Find out about making every journey safer by visiting www.saferjourneys.govt.nz