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South Australians love a driving holiday, and with the lifting of Covid travel restrictions thousands are getting behind the wheel to explore international holiday destinations.
Even the thought of driving on the right (or wrong) side of the road hasn’t curbed travellers’ enthusiasm for the freedom of having their own transport to go where they want, when they want.
RAA is the state’s only authorised issuer of International Driving Permits (IDP), and in the first month of this year we only received 200 applications.
That number has steadily grown each month since, hitting a high of 1397 in July, according to our latest figures.
RAA Travel General Manager Gina Norman said IDP applications immediately lifted once international borders opened in January.
“There has been a lot of pent up demand for overseas travel, which is reflected by the surge in people seeking IDPs,’’ Ms Norman said.
“These numbers show how many holidaymakers love the independence of travelling by car.
“It means you don’t have to stick to a public transport timetable or be restricted to bus stops or train stations.
“Self driving allows you the spontaneity of stopping to admire a beautiful view, or visit a special location off the tourist track.’’
Ms Norman said the UK, Europe and North America were among the most popular destinations for self-driving holidays.
However, she warned there were fraudulent websites selling unofficial IDPs, and urged travellers to only purchase from an authorised issuer.
“RAA is the only authorised issuer in South Australia – and IDPs can be obtained on our website or in our shops,’’ she said.
“Online orders are becoming more popular and now account for 23 per cent share of applications, which is higher than pre-covid.’’
To determine if you need an IDP, or to apply online, visit International driving permit – Get IDP licences online | RAA Travel