At VroomVroomVroom, we understand the importance of giving back.

In 2014, VroomVroomVroom discovered Kiva: an international non-profit with a mission to connect people through lending to alleviate poverty.

Since then we have lent $55,175 to 349 people!

What does Kiva do?

The premise is that Kiva lends money to a cross section of the global community. Whether it be a family in Sudan who needs a loan to fix their house, an entrepreneur starting up a business in Cambodia, a farmer in Vietnam needing to buy pigs or someone in the Philippines who needs to rebuild after a typhoon. For some, it is a way of survival and for others it helps them reach their goals.

How does VroomVroomVroom help?

The idea is that we lend money to someone in need and then they make repayments once they are financially stable. Once the money is returned, we are then able to lend it to someone else in need. By doing this, it allows people the opportunity to get back on their feet. The process continues over and over again, giving the loan that ability to help countless people.

Where VroomVroomVroom lends to: 

Did you know that Kiva works in 81 countries? With over 3.1 million borrowers, partnering with Kiva means that VroomVroomVroom can help make a difference in many people’s lives. Instead of donating, the ability to loan money means that it is possible to reach more people and make an impact.

VroomVroomVroom is proud to be part of such a phenomenal initiative and looks forward to helping more people in the future.

To lend money through Kiva or learn more, click here.

All over the world, there are stunning bridges sprawled across every country. From the famous Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco to the impressive Vasco da Gama Bridge in Lisbon and the scenic Sea Cliff Bridge in Australia, here are the most amazing bridges around the world…

Sea Cliff Bridge, Queensland, Australia

Sea Cliff Bridge can be found on the Grand Pacific Drive along the east coast of Australia. Since 2005, this location has become an iconic pit stop on a coastal road trip from Sydney to Melbourne. Most people pick up their car hire from Sydney and start their journey by stopping in and seeing the stunning vista from this memorable bridge.  

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A post shared by LP (@liampozz) on Jul 20, 2018 at 3:20am PDT

Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, America

The iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco is an essential road trip destination. From the San Francisco Bay to the Peninsula, this suspension bridge has to be one of the most popular bridges in the world. Spanning almost 3 KM long, this art deco bridge is a must-see on your west coast road trip in America.

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A post shared by Zeek Yan • Los Angeles CA (@zeekyan) on Aug 5, 2018 at 8:32pm PDT

Viaduc de Millau, Creissels, France

Want to travel across the highest bridge in the world? You need to check out the Millau Viaduct. Taller than the Eiffel Tower, this bridge links Béziers and Narbonne which takes you between Paris and the Mediterranean, how cool!

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A post shared by Ingegneria e dintorni (@ingegneriaedintorni) on Nov 22, 2018 at 11:59pm PST

Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge, Malaysia

Also known as the Second Penang Bridge, the Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah links Malaysia and Penang Island. This bridge was constructed to ensure that it could withstand any forces of nature. Its design is not only stunning to look at, but equally as impressive due to its strength and engineering.

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Vasco da Gama Bridge, Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal is known for its beautiful architecture, where the Vasco da Gama bridge is no exception. Known as the longest Bridge in all of Europe, from 1998 it has been able to decrease the amount of congestion in Portugal. Did you know that the speed limit here 120 km and hour?

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Bixby Creek Bridge, California, America

A road trip through Big Sur is like no other in the world, especially when you can travel across the Bixby Creek Bridge. You’ll find this bridge on your drive along Highway 1. Spanning 260 feet high, this one of a kind wooden frame and stunning backdrop has made it one of the most Instagrammed locations in Big Sur.

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A post shared by Björn | Photographer (@thefernwehphoto) on Sep 11, 2018 at 10:44am PDT

Lions Gate Bridge, Vancouver, Canada

Opened in 1938, Lions Gate Bridge is an iconic Canadian bridge that stretches between Vancouver, British Columbia to the North Shore. You can take a road trip from Vancouver to Seattle or, if you are after a longer trip, San Francisco is a stunning drive. Known for its amazing music and theatre scene, Vancouver is a city full of culture and art surrounded by stunning mountains. Start of your trip exploring this magical city and then drive across the first Narrows Bridge to begin your road trip.

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A post shared by GEOFFREY | Vancouver (@ggeoffreyy) on Oct 7, 2018 at 11:31am PDT

Atlantic Ocean Road, Averyoy, Norway

Although the Atlantic Ocean Road is not classified as a bridge, it has 8 bridges that help connect Averyoy to Norway’s Mainland. This place really is like no other – with its small islands connected by beautifully curved bridges. The scenery along the way is some of the most stunning in the world, if you ask us. Make sure to stop at Eldhusoya Island to take in the views that attract people from all over the world.

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A post shared by Jack Harding (@jackharding) on Mar 17, 2018 at 10:02am PDT

Manhattan Bridge, New York, America

Manhattan Bridge connects Lower Manhattan to Downtown Brooklyn in the vibrant New York City. Did you know that this bridge was built in 1909? This suspension bridge is known as a stunning display of engineering. When you drive over Manhattan Bridge, you will see breathtaking views of the city spanning all the way down the river. When you arrive in New York, you will want to check out both Brooklyn and Manhattan Island. New York is a city full of culture, amazing food and an endless array of places to explore. Whether you are wanting to take your time and check out the sights or simply stop in for a few days, you won’t be disappointed.

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A post shared by NADIA BLOCK (@bklyn_block) on Jan 6, 2019 at 9:32am PST

NEED MORE TRAVEL INSPIRATION?

• 10 Most Popular Road Trip Destinations in 2019
• Why Everyone Should Take a Road Trip
• The Most Interesting Drives in the World
  

Are you thinking about going on an amazing holiday, but not sure where to go? Take a look at 2019’s 10 most popular road trip destinations you need to visit and make those travel dreams a reality!

Valletta, Malta

From Blue Lagoon in Comino, to the world famous Blue Grotto, Malta is a dreamy paradise smack bang between the Mediterranean and Sicily. The public transport system in Malta is famously never on time however hiring a car is a super cheap option. It’s a win-win, if you think about it. If your dream holiday consists of al fresco dining, cobble streets, sunny days at the beach and amazing nightlife, then guess what? Malta will be your dream destination. You can fly into Rome and road trip down to the south of Italy and hop on a ferry to Malta or, fly in direct to Malta airport and pick up your car hire there.

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A post shared by LP (@liampozz) on Jul 20, 2018 at 3:20am PDT

Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast – you may not have seen this magical place in person just yet, but you definitely would have seen it sprawled across the accounts of high profile Instagrammers. For a road trip to remember, pick up your car hire in Rome. Your first stop should be Naples! Wine, dine and eat copious amounts of Pizza. You can also check out the ruins of Pompeii and the historic city centre. An amazing next stop is Sorrento, a vibrant and diverse town. You’ll drive along iconic roads and see amazing views. Positano is one of the most trendy places in the world. Think aqua water, beachy vibes and stunning scenery. Other must-see stops are Salerno and Tivoli.

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A post shared by LP (@liampozz) on Jul 20, 2018 at 3:20am PDT

Great South West Edge, Australia

From Perth to Esperance, the Great South West Edge of Australia is a stretch of road that is filled with white sand beaches, unbeatable views, national parks and unforgettable roads. From Lucky Bay – a beach where you’ll find adorable kangaroos, to the stunning rock formations at Sugarloaf Rock, and the pink Lake Hillier, there are countless camera worthy destinations dotted all the way down the west coast of Australia. You can pick up your car hire in Perth and start your road trip from there, heading south.

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Lisbon, Portugal

With breathtaking winding roads, world-renowned restaurants and vibrant nightlife, Lisbon is an iconic paradise that has become a travellers hot spot over the past few years. The range of traditional landmarks and up and coming architecture and culture means you’ll get the best of both worlds in Lisbon. You can fly into Lisbon Airport and pick up your rental car and road trip to Cascais and Sintra to Lamego and Porto.

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A post shared by LP (@liampozz) on Jul 20, 2018 at 3:20am PDT

Tulum, Mexico

Known for its cenotes (underground water reservoirs), Tulum is an ideal summer road trip destination in Mexico. If you are looking for picturesque and camera-worthy scenery as well as an amazing location to relax and unwind, you need to add Tulum to your road trip bucket list. Cancun is pretty close by as well which you can drive to.  From reef snorkeling, exploring cenotes, to the Playa Paraiso (beach), Tulum Ruins, and drool-worthy food, you’ll be in heaven right here in this must-visit travel destination. Pick up your car rental from Tulum Central and start exploring cenotes!

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Kaikoura, New Zealand

Filled with an abundance of sea life, Kaikoura is a coastal town located in the South Island of beautiful New Zealand. This coastal town is known for its whale, dolphin, seal and albatross habitats that can be found at any time of the year! There are a ton of tours you can go on to take a closer look at these stunning animals. When you visit this location, you’ll see why Kaikoura has become a popular holiday destination. Maybe it’s the breathtaking scenery that New Zealand is absolutely filled with, or maybe it’s the amazing weather and wildlife. No matter what you’re looking for, this location has probably got it, if we’re honest. Pick up your rental car in Christchurch and travel along the coast north to get to Kaikoura.

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New Orleans, USA

Keen on neverending nightlife, historical architecture, an awesome music scene and of course, the famous Bourbon Street? New Orleans really has it all. Locals recommend hanging out in the French Quarter. Aside from the French Quarter, make sure you check out the Garden District, New Orleans Museum and Art Gallery, and simply explore these vibrant streets. There are countless places to pick up a rental car regardless if you are travelling from other states or flying into a nearby airport.

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Scotland, UK

From exploring Scotland’s stunning scenery to its majestic castles and driving routes, Scotland really knows how to impress. From coastal delights, impressive wildlife and even island hopping, Scotland is a tourist hot spot, and for good reason. Guess what? If you didn’t think Scotland could get any better, you can even see the Northern Lights right here. Road trip around Scotland, relax in the countryside, explore the world-famous wineries and distilleries for an amazing road trip experience. Depending on where you are wanting to begin your road trip, you can pick up your rental in either Edinburgh or Glasgow airport.

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A post shared by Scotland Shots 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 (@scotland.shots) on Mar 29, 2019 at 10:00pm PDT

Berlin, Germany

From the Brandenburg Gate, to the bustling arts scene, plethora of gardens, cathedrals, concert halls, museums and art galleries, Berlin is a vibrant capital city. Full of quirky things to do from exploring abandoned airports, checking out Reichstag’s Dome (Germany’s parliament) and the culture and history, Berlin is definitely worth the visit. Whether you are spending a few days or weeks here, you’ll never run out of things to do. Flying into Tegel airport? You can pick up your rental from right here.

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Great Smoky Mountains, USA

Did you know that the Great Smoky Mountains are known as one of the most popular national parks in the world? You’ll find this breathtaking park in North Carolina and Tennessee. While you are exploring the area with your rental car, make sure to drive through Newfound Gap Road and hike the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Cades Cove and Clingmans Dome. After experiencing the Great Smoky Mountains to its fullest, you’ll see exactly why this location is being added to countless travel itineraries. Nashville and Memphis airport have car rental options for you.

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A post shared by LP (@liampozz) on Jul 20, 2018 at 3:20am PDT

Feature image credit: Josh Withers

NEED MORE TRAVEL INSPIRATION?

Read more recommendations from travel bloggers below:

Today, we are introducing… Charlotte and James Maddock.

Charlotte and James Maddock are a newly married couple who (usually) live in Perth, Australia. Charlotte is from Christchurch, New Zealand and James is from Moorine Rock (a small farming town) in Western Australia. Some of their well-known interests are travelling, photography, national parks and their kombi van. Their hobbies include watching Brooklyn 99 on repeat, eating perfectly poached eggs, having picnics that primarily consist of cheese and crackers, and trying way too hard to involve puns in everyday conversation.

For a long time, Charlotte and James had been dreaming of going on a road trip around Australia. So in 2016, they did just that. “We bought a 1975 kombi van (Vinnie the VW), took a year off work and set off on our big (40,000km) lap. It was during this trip that we started taking pictures and discovered our passion for landscape photography. We are now in the process of shipping Vinnie to New Zealand for the kiwi version of our Aussie road trip!”

Find inspiration for your next road trip and learn how to capture perfect moments by checking out Charlotte and James at awaywithcj.com

Favourite road trip destinations

• Karijini National Park, Western Australia: Of all the places we visited in Australia, Karijini is hands-down our favourite. The National Park is characterised by sparkling waterfalls, breathtaking gorges and our favourite – ancient (yet somehow vibrant) cliff faces. We have been lucky enough to visit the park three times in the past three years and each time we’ve been, we’ve fallen in love with different aspects. The cheeky dingoes, the bright red rocks, the turquoise waters, the rolling Hamersley Ranges. To us, Karijini has it all. It is our definition of paradise.
• Gibb River Road, Western Australia: We visited the Gibb earlier this year for our honeymoon and had the time of our lives. The Gibb is an old cattle route (approximately 660km long) and to us, a real iconic Aussie experience. We spent a week bumping along the gravel road and visiting all the beautiful gorges, waterfalls and of course, the awe-inspiring Cockburn Ranges. We even got chased by a crocodile! Don’t worry, it was a freshie. Thank goodness!
• Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Red Centre: When we planned our trip to the Red Centre, we expected three days at Uluru would be plenty. But when we arrived something happened. Something changed. We can’t really explain what it was exactly – we were just mesmerised by Uluru. It is a special special place. We ended up staying there eight days in total, and watched the sun rise and set over Uluru every single day.

Road trip must-haves

Charlotte:

• Wet wipes: You never know when or where your next shower will be! Extra points if you can get flushable ones!
• Dry shampoo: As above.
• Good company: Road trips present so many new experiences and learnings – even if you’re only going for one or two days, you’ll end with so many new memories, laughs and ‘had to be there’ jokes. It’s wonderful if you get to share all this with good company.  

James:

• Fridge: Not only will you save money by making your own meals, but it’s also great having the freedom to pull up wherever, grab a picnic blanket and sit down and eat your meal. We have some great memories of places we stopped at just to sit down and have lunch there.
• Jetboil: Whether it’s to boil water for your coffee or a quick impromptu shower, the Jetboil has quickly become a trusted travel companion for us.
• Headtorch: If you like to watch the sunrise and sunset as much as us, you will find yourself setting up camp in the dark most days (and needing both hands). For us, this made the headtorch very handy (pun intended).

Tips for people renting a car/camper

Try and get a Kombi van! [Laughs.]

If hiring a camper, we would recommend getting one with:

• an auxiliary/second battery (so you can run the fridge).
• a dual battery charging system.
• inverter (so you can charge all your other appliances like laptops).

For a car, we recommend you do your research first and if the areas you are wanting to visit require a 4WD for access, make sure you hire a 4WD! We have done the whole hatchback down the gravel road thing and it never ends well.

The photo they are most proud of…

That’s a tough one! We would have to say our favourite photo is the one of the two of us watching the sunrise at Mitchell Falls because of the story behind it.

On our honeymoon, we decided to detour 500km off the Gibb River Road to see Mitchell Falls (a beautiful and rugged four tiered waterfall). We were so excited as it’s been a place we’ve always wanted to visit, even though the last 90km of the drive is considered to be one of the worst roads in all of Australia. The 90km stretch usually takes people up to four hours to complete. Once we arrived (safely), we were lucky enough to get a camping permit so we could hike to the falls and camp nearby overnight. This meant the next morning we woke to the sun rising over the falls. It was such a special morning and the absolute highlight of our honeymoon. We sat there all morning, well after the sun had risen – the sheer size of the falls just took our breath away.

Tips on how to become an influencer

To be honest, we wouldn’t really say we are ‘instabloggers’ – we just love sharing our pictures, thoughts and dreams on social media, but this hasn’t really been a career for either of us! Just something we love to do. We started an Instagram account as a way of sharing our photos, stories and memories and feel very grateful that people have wanted to follow along and be a part of it. For us, social media has been a really positive platform, we have made new friends, collaborated with some awesome brands, and even been lucky enough to sell a few of our images.

Our advice is to just be yourself and be kind. It’s your account so share what makes you (and as an added bonus – other people) happy.  If our photo, story or travel tip helps to make someone’s day, then we are happy.

You can find Charlotte and James Maddock on Instagram at @cjmaddock

Need More Travel Inspiration?

Read more recommendations from our travel blogger friends below:

Why Everyone Should Take a Road Trip

Sophie Spencer

Josh Withers

Inspiring Road Trip Video

VroomVroomVroom had an awesome 2018 and is looking forward to more great things happening in 2019. Hundreds of thousands of customers visited our website (or used our app) to book a car in different parts of the world this year. We are sincerely grateful for that, but do you know which are the most popular locations for cars? We checked our data and have created an infographic of the top cities to rent a car and campervan per country in 2018. Find out if you’re favorite road trip destination is included in our list.

1. Melbourne, Australia
2. Queenstown, New Zealand
3. Los Angeles, United States
4. Vancouver, Canada
5. London, United Kingdom

There are many reasons why these locations had the highest number of bookings. It could be a great place to drive to or go on a road trip. There could also be more choices in vehicles here, thus making it easier to find a cheap car or RV. Let’s find out if these cities will remain our top locations in 2019.

Note: The list displayed above are the cities with the highest number of bookings in Australia, New Zealand, United States, Canada, and United Kingdom. It was based on VroomVroomVroom’s Google Analytics report ranging from Jan. 1, 2018 to Dec. 10, 2018.

The Global Positioning System (GPS) has become an indispensable tool and incredibly useful in today’s world. By using the GPS, everyone finds it easier to travel with less stress avoiding getting lost while on the road. However, like all innovative tools, it can be harmful, too. VroomVroomVroom has put together a quick guide for using GPS navigation and how becoming too reliant on it can pose some risks.

What are the most important things to know when using a GPS?

•  Use the GPS but only if needed. R​elying too much on your GPS can possibly ruin your navigational abilities. If you want to get around in the world, having a natural sense of direction is still essential as GPS devices can sometimes be unreliable and leave you feeling more helpless when you get lost thanks to a drained smartphone battery or a navigation app mishap because of a weak signal.​
• Limit the use of GPS while driving: Try not to use your GPS if you can while driving and instead check all the directions before you embark on your journey. This way, you can retain the information easily and spend more time observing the landmarks around you.​

Why over reliance on your GPS can pose dangers?

From the story of three Japanese tourists who chose to follow the counter-intuitive direction of their GPS, and they ended up driving into the waters of Moreton Bay in Brisbane, Australia, to a story about a driver who failed to noticed a few “Road Closed” signs and ended up with his van in temporary flood-created lake after following GPS directions, there are a few other stories​ which will prove why avoiding relying blindly on GPS is strongly encouraged.​

A New Jersey driver caused a four car pile-up after he followed his GPS and made an illegal left turn while the warning signs stated: Don’t make a left turn.

Another case of a GPS system that didn’t quite live up to its standards​ featured the story of three Mexican women who drove ​straight into a swamp ​after they followed directions from their GPS unit. Based on the incident report, the three women were safe and rescued, but the vehicle was completely under water.

The  moral of the story: if you miss a turn or get lost while driving in an unfamiliar place, you have two choices. Stay calm and figure it out carefully, or try not to rely on your GPS too much and instead, use your common sense. GPS and other navigational apps can be very useful, but blindly following its directions may sometimes lead to danger.

Using a map and reading warning signs, in combination with the use of GPS, is what we always encourage. You may still listen to the GPS voice that offers turn-by-turn directions, but make sure to pay attention to traffic lights and warning signs to avoid road accidents. ​

Which is better: Dedicated GPS device or smartphone GPS?

If you are a frequent traveller, you may already know that all major suppliers in the car rental industry have GPS navigation systems to hire, even smart phones have built in maps that can direct you to your destination. If this is the case, you may be wondering whether if it still makes sense to add a GPS as an extra when you can just use your smartphone.

We listed down a few good reasons on why renting a GPS is still a better option.

• Data: ​If you are planning on doing some long distance driving, renting a GPS unit is a good option than using your mobile data plan, to avoid expensive overage charges.
• Battery: In terms of battery power, a rental GPS unit can last longer especially on long trips than relying on your phone, which may not  even last halfway through the day​. Additionally, GPS navigation is more suited in time of emergency.
• Service: Without cellular service, you cannot expect to receive a full turn-by-turn directions on your smartphone, while a rental GPS unit can still work in locations when there is no cellphone coverage.

Other useful information

• How to Add a GPS to Your Car Rental​​
• What You Need to Know Before You Rent a Car​
• Can Car Hire Companies Track Where You Drive and Do They Do It?​

Share a photo of your Australia road trip for your chance to WIN $1,000 AUD in car rental reimbursement!

At VroomVroomVroom we are big believers in creating amazing memories spent with loved ones. We understand the importance of exploring, discovering and locating breathtaking locations with family and friends.

Better yet, Australia is the perfect location to delve into and uncover its most stunning reaches. From beachy coastal towns to vibrant cities – even rich with nature outback towns – the choice is yours. Are you travelling along the east coast? Maybe checking out as many beaches as humanly possible?

Are you heading into the middle of OZ and visiting the world-renowned Uluru? Maybe you’re city hopping from Brisbane to Sydney and Melbourne for the ultimate cosmopolitan adventure.

From Daintree to the Darwin, Perth to the Pinnacles, the Gold Coast to Geelong or even Canberra to Cairns, your road trip dreams should be endless. VroomVroomVroom wants to see how you are spending your Aussie holidays this December and January in your car hire.

For your chance to WIN $1,000 AUD in car rental reimbursement all you need to do is…

🚙 Book through VroomVroomVroom & pick up your rental car before 31/01/2019.

📸 Post an interesting photo or video, which includes the rental car in the image.

#️⃣ Use the #LetitVroom hashtag.

✔️ Follow & tag us.

❤️ Tag one friend who you would like to share your trip memory with!

📄 Click the link in our bio and read the Terms and Conditions carefully before you enter.

#LetitVroom this holiday season! *Entries close on the 31st of January 2019.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your camera, start exploring and make some memories.

For more information click here
Terms and Conditions apply

Welcome back to our second edition of the Influencer of the Month where we showcase tips, tricks and inspo from some of our favourite influencers.

Today, we are introducing… Sophie Spencer.

Sophie Spencer is an Aussie travel blogger who lives a life full of adventure, spontaneity and ‘pinch me’ moments. When she is not gallivanting across the globe, she can be found hanging out in a funky café in Brisbane’s inner suburbs or playing back-to-back netball games at the indoor courts.

Sophie got her start in Instablogging at such a young age. “I picked up a camera from a young age and have barely been able to keep it out of my hands since. I feel like I have a lot to thank my parents from, as they opened me up to the big wide world of travel when I was just 6 years old. It’s safe to say that I picked up the travel bug a lot quicker than most. My Instagram started off as a personal account, but after heading off on an exchange program whilst studying my Bachelor’s degree in Photography, I decided to document my travels and experiences in a more serious matter and voila! Adventures of Soph was born.”

Learn more about Sophie and view her Social Handles at adventuresofsoph.com

Sophie’s favourite road trip destinations

I am a sucker for a good road trip but I somehow have an easy top 3.

• Great Ocean Road, Victoria: It was the combination of spontaneous moments, sunrises from the back of the van and being reunited with my best friends that live in England.
• Cairns to Port Douglas and beyond to the Daintree, Queensland: Short, but so very sweet. In my opinion, the drive from Cairns to Daintree is one of the most beautiful drives you can do in Australia. I feel lucky enough to call Cairns home, having done the leg to Port Douglas too many times to count. There are so many beautiful beaches to stop in at along the way, making it for a perfect day road trip.
• Scotland: Taking it international because Scotland is just simply incredible. I never once thought I’d be able to cruise through the Scottish Highlands with such freedom, let alone be amazed at just how stunning the scenery is.

Sophie’s road trip must-haves

• An AUX cord: What’s a road trip without a banging playlist?
• Friends: Moments are best shared, right? Plus, it’s almost guaranteed that you are going to take many wrong turns, will need a duet partner to belt out those tunes and someone to pass you some chips & dip while you drive.

Sophie’s top tips for people renting a car/camper

• Get a full coverage insurance: Always, always, always get full cover insurance. Luckily nothing has ever happened to me whilst I have been on the road, but you never know when something will. It will give you peace of mind and will help with the whole ‘stress less’ mentality on the road.
• Always plan ahead: If you are travelling in peak season, consider planning ahead. Look, I am all for living life on the edge and being spontaneous with my travels but there comes a time when things are just way too busy to just go with the flow. This is a little bit different if you have the freedom that comes with a camper, but if not, you should have a look at the accommodation options prior to travelling.
• Be prepared: The last thing you want is to be stuck on the side of the road, watching the night come near, calling every place within distance to see if they have vacancies.

The photo Sophie is most proud of…

It’s such a tough thing to ask considering I have 3TB of photographs just from the last 3 years of travel. If there was one photo though, it would have to be from the morning that I spent down at the Camel Race tracks in Abu Dhabi. It was when I started to shift back into taking more of an authentic, social documentary approach to what I was posting on my Instagram and this was the one photo that did it for me…

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Adventure Photographer & Storyteller 🌞 (@heyimsophiee_)

Sophie’s tips on becoming a social media influencer

Be authentically you. There are so many social media influencers out there and to ‘make it’ you really need to stand out. Do what you love and post what you love, otherwise you could very easily get sucked into the mentality of doing it for the ‘freebies’ and not because you believe in the brand or are loyal to your followers.

It’s also so easy to drop interest if you don’t actually love what you are posting and preaching! Trust me, it’s not as simple and breezy as it seems! With that being said, it’s an amazing field that I am so passionate about and truly encourage people to jump on the bandwagon.

You can find Sophie Spencer on Instagram at adventuresofsophh

Need More Travel Inspiration?

Read more recommendations from our travel blogger friends below:

Why Everyone Should Take a Road Trip

Inspiring Road Trip Video

The Most Interesting Drives in the World

Still undecided where to go for the coming holidays? Let our travel blogger friends help you! We asked them their favorite place to spend Christmas. Having traveled to different parts of the world, they will be able to give the best recommendations. Check out their answers below:

London

Contributed by: Meg Jerrard of Mapping Megan

Christmas in London is a magical time of the year, and if you’ve been forever dreaming of a white Christmas, London is our top choice for celebrating the holiday season. Celebrating Christmas in London means carols by candlelight, sipping mulled wine while wandering through Christmas markets, and classics like Scrooge and the Nutcracker on the West End. It means watching as the whole city sparkles from an endless string of festive lights, brisk strolls through snow covered streets, and taking a spin on outdoor ice rinks outside century old castles or on palace grounds.

For more travel tips, check out our interview with Megan.

The Caribbean

Contributed by: Kach and Jonathan Howe of Mr and Mrs Howe

After traveling full-time since 2013 visiting over 120 countries in all the 7 continents, this upcoming Christmas will be the one that I really look forward to the day. This is going to be our 2nd year of celebrating Christmas on our sailboat, SV Empress, but this time we will be in the Caribbean and more special because we have our two cats with us!

For more travel tips, check out our interview with Kach and Jonathan.

Southeast Asia

Contributed by: Drew Binsky of Drew Binsky

My top 3 destinations for visiting this Christmas are Vietnam, The Philippines and Myanmar. All three countries are in Southeast Asia, which means that they are very affordable to visit and they have some of the nicest people on earth. You will never run out of picture-perfect beaches, temples and outdoor activities that will keep you busy during the holiday season.

For more travel tips, check out our interview with Drew.

Ireland

Contributed by: Johnny Ward of One Step 4Ward

For Christmas? Number 1 is always home! For me that is Ireland. New York is of course a great place to spend Christmas too, as is Sydney, Australia. Seafood and hot weather is so foreign to us Europeans for a Christmas experience, I loved it. If I’m away from friends and family, then I prefer to be in a place where Christmas isn’t celebrated to be honest, that way I get less homesick. In the north east of China they have an amazing ice festival in Harbin, that’s a great spot to spend Christmas. The Copacabana beach in Rio isn’t bad either!

For more travel tips, check out our interview with Johnny.

Vancouver

Contributed by: Will Tang of Going Awesome Places

One of my favourite spots for Christmas is Whistler, Vancouver.  As a snowboarder, the prospect of hitting the mountain slopes, floating over fresh powder and wrapping up the night in a hot tub with snowflakes falling from above. It’s a magical experience that makes it perfect for the holidays.

For more travel tips, check out our interview with Will.

Mexico

Contributed by: Charles and Micki Kosman of The Barefoot Nomad

While it never truly feels like Christmas if there isn’t snow on the ground, our favorite Christmas destination is still someplace warm. For us, that usually means Playa Del Carmen, Mexico. Not only are flights cheap from our home base in Canada, we’re still in a similar time zone. That makes video chatting with our extended family relatively easy and also means the kids don’t miss out on joining any family celebrations back home. The plus is we can all still spend Christmas day swimming in the ocean or lounging by a pool and enjoying the many local Mexican Christmas traditions and celebrations around town.

Spain

Contributed by: Linda Martin of Indie Travel Podcast

If you’re looking for a Christmas experience that’s a little out of the ordinary, I’d recommend Jerez in southern Spain. Jerez is where sherry is from, so you could choose a glass of Fino or Amontillado. You may be lucky enough to see locals playing the zambomba, which is a strange instrument that looks like a large urn with a skin lid that is pierced by a stick. It makes a hollow rhythmic sound, and is accompanied by singing — sometimes the songs are quite bawdy! Jerez also hosts a nativity scene museum, and you’ll also see nativity scenes of all sizes around the city, from tiny ones in shop windows to life-sized ones featuring real animals.Plus, there are awesome Christmas lights, several parades, and all sorts of special Christmas treats to try.

We hope that our travel blogger friends have given you an idea where to celebrate the holiday season. No matter where you go, what is important is how you make it more meaningful. On behalf of the VroomVroomVroom family, we wish you all a wonderful Christmas.

With Halloween fast approaching, a lot of people are planning to hit the highways in their rental cars to seek out the supernatural. VroomVroomVroom has compiled a list of popular spooky road trip ideas guaranteed to send chills down your spine.

Journey to New Zealand’s Forgotten World

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Let’s begin the road trip to a spooky place in New Zealand called Tangarakau, popularly known as Ghost Town. Just 90 minutes drive from Stratford and Taumarunui, signs to the town is accompanied by goat skins hung up on the fence. Expect to see a campground surrounded by rolling hills on this abandoned section of the Forgotten World Highway in the North Island. An approximately 1,200 people used to live here since the tunneling and railway days … now, well, it’s a ghost town.

Visit the haunted St John’s Orphanage in Goulburn

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St. John’s Orphanage aka the Goulburn Boys Orphanage can be found in Goulburn, just north east of Canberra in Australia. First opened by the Sisters of Mercy About in 1912, the orphanage housed an approximately 2,500 boys until its closure in 1978. According to reports, those housed there during the war years have gone through some difficult times and were often punished.

California’s abandoned ghost towns

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See towns forever frozen in the 1800s in the desert of California. A road trip through these isolated towns provides plenty of thrilling Halloween experiences. One of the more popular ghost towns is Bodie. The town is in the Bodie Hills east of the Sierra Nevada mountains. There are no services in Bodie, giving visitors the true sense of isolation. The empty general store and the slowly decaying buildings are great for exploring. You can learn the haunting stories of the families that once lived in the town.

See the sights of the Salem witch trials

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There are sights all over Salem in Massachusetts where you can experience the history of the supposed witchcraft in the area. Visit the Salem Witch House, see a re-enactment of the 1692 witch trial at the Witch Dungeon Museum. Take one of the in-depth tours to experience the history of Salem. If you’re planning on a road trip to Salem this Halloween, you will find the city about 40 minutes north of Boston.

Watch out for aliens on Nevada’s Extraterrestrial Highway

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The highway that started rumours of UFO sightings and numerous conspiracy theories is a quirky way to spend Halloween. Explore the sights of the highway as it lines the fringes of the mysterious Area 51. In the town of Rachel, Nevada, visitors will be able to fully immerse themselves in the alien theme. Enjoy a meal at the Little A Le Inn, which serves up alien burgers.

Ontario’s Creepiest Tunnel

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The Blue Ghost Tunnel in St. Catharines Ontario is said to be haunted by the ghosts of those who died from fatal accidents during its construction in 1876. The abandoned tunnel is dreaded for its urban legend stories such as buried cemetery and rails accidents. Visitors have claimed to experience some paranormal events while inside the passageway also called as the Merritton Tunnel.

Need More Spooky Road Trip Ideas?

Check out some of the most spooky events and activities below:

Top Halloween Events in Australia

Best Halloween Events in the US

Are you looking for amazing road trip ideas? Well, you have come to the right place. Welcome to our new travel series where we will showcase tips, tricks and inspo from some of our favourite influencers.

Introducing… Josh Withers

As we all know, Instagram photography is becoming an epic way that people can showcase their creativity, where Josh Withers does just that.

For work, Josh is a marriage celebrant and lucky for him weddings and elopements happen in the best parts of Planet Earth. After a wedding ceremony has finished it’s usually pretty close to sunset so he uses his DJI Mavic 2 Pro drone to capture some amazing photos. We love the drone images that Josh captures on his travels! VroomVroomVroom brings to you an insight into the life of a photographer and his top tips for your next road trip.

You can find Josh on Instagram at @joshwithersart

Josh’s favourite road trip destinations

• The Great Ocean Road, Australia: Most of my favourite road trips have nothing to do with the destination and everything to do with the journey, like the classic Great Ocean Road or the drive from Perth and Esperance.
• Glencory, New Zealand: One of my favourites has to be the road to Glenorchy in New Zealand. The road itself is littered with views, walks, and a whole lot of lake, but my tip is to get to Glenorchy and to keep on driving to the end of the road to Paradise. On the map it’s called Chinaman’s Bluff, and the 20 minute hike at the end of the road to the Paradise Valley is a million times more valuable than the cost of the flights to Queenstown.

Josh’s top 3 road trip must-haves

• Coffee.
• Car chargers for the tech.
• Great playlist. My wife’s road trip playlists are her specialty, so the trip’s always better with her on my side.

Josh’s top tips for people renting a car

• Research: Unlike airlines, car rental companies don’t seem to offer a lot to loyal customers so do your research and go searching for the best deal.
• Insurance: I make sure that my excess is covered in my travel insurance so I can save on the excess reduction costs.
• The perfect car: The detail we used to always forget was to get a car that’s not only big enough for our crew, but also for our bags! 

HIDE ME

HIDE ME

HIDE ME

The photo Josh is most proud of…

My last photo is always my proudest, I’m forever learning how to capture, frame, and edit better, but in the last twelve months I’ve been lucky enough to see a lot of the world, and the most colourful part was outside of Queenstown. If you visit this forest 50 weeks out of the year it is either green or brown, but for the shortest time it’s as colourful as a rainbow.  

https://www.instagram.com/p/BiOvKNZFvMV/

You can find Josh Withers on Instagram at @joshwithersart 

Has the world’s busy demands been keeping you on your toes lately? Isn’t it time to reward yourself with a stress-free and fun vacation? Well, we at VroomVroomVroom are here to help you have an unforgettable and budget-friendly experience on your next holiday and provide some cool tips to help you escape.

1. The Road Less Traveled

So you’ve chosen to go on a long-distance travel. That doesn’t mean that it needs to be expensive. Choose less popular or rarely visited countries as your next destination. Visit and stay in smaller cities. You might actually discover something new, and even better… experience something memorable.

2. Regional Airports

8.  Do Stars Mean Anything

10. Cellphone Bill Shock

12. Alternative Accommodations

It’s short, it’s sweet, but yes, you can enjoy the Gold Coast in 2 days. Laura Robinson, a Melbourne-based Aussie who blogs at Passport Collective, show us how.

Road Trip & Car Rental Tips

Renting a car with VroomVroomVroom makes exploring the Gold Coast and everything it has to offer, a simple and easy process. If you are wanting to check out the world famous beaches and immerse yourself in the beach culture that the Gold Coast does so well – check out this 2 day itinerary for the ultimate coastal experience.

Now, if you’re not from Australia, make sure you’re driving on the left. The roads around the Gold Coast are well paved, well signed and well lit, so you’ll have the hang of it before long. Like any road trip, a GPS unit will be your best friend, so make sure you add one on to your rental when booking.

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Day One

Hiring a car in Australia is one of the easiest ways to get around. We’re a big nation and the Gold Coast is no exception. The Gold Coast Airport is right at the bottom tip of the region, so we’ll be heading north for our first stop to one of the most iconic beaches.

Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Heads is famous for its swell and that breathtaking curved beach that gives you the most magnificent view of Surfers Paradise and beyond. A visit to Burleigh Heads is one the best things to do in the Gold Coast for free. If it’s warm enough for a splash, make sure you swim in a patrolled area otherwise the beach is beautiful for a stroll. The pristine golden sand and blue skies draw you in and it’s easy to spend a few hours here.

There are a lot of options for meals in Burleigh Heads. The Burleigh Heads hotel is just opposite the main car park, which is a bonus as car parking in the area can be tricky to find. The hotel has large glass windows and French doors that open in the warmer weather so you can continue to gaze at that beautiful beach whilst you eat your meal. They’ll also let you plug in a device, so it’s a great spot to recharge – literally.

Surfers Paradise

The next stop on your Gold Coast itinerary is just up the road. It wouldn’t be a visit to ‘The Goldie’ without stopping at Surfers Paradise. The most famous of all of the beaches, you’ll want to have your camera ready to take a selfie under the iconic ‘Surfers Paradise Arch’. Cavill Avenue is great for a stroll. Make sure you get a photo on the throne – the more people you can squeeze on the better!

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation on the Gold Coast. From relaxed low rise, to luxury suites in one of the many towers, there is something to suit everyone. Many hotels provide car parking for free, or at a small charge, so make sure you check when you make your reservations. Street parking can be hard to find during peak periods, so it’s best to plan ahead when organising your Gold Coast Road Trip.

Tallebudgera Creek

Before heading to your hotel to relax, we’re going to take you to one last spot. You won’t find this one on the tourist maps and that’s because it’s a local secret. Tallebudgera Creek is one of the many fresh water inlets into the sea. It’s the perfect spot for stand up paddle boarding and it’s hard to resist building sandcastle in the glistening white sand. Make sure you’ve got your sunnies on because the water certainly does sparkle on a bright sunny day.

We’re leaving the rest of the day to you. Swim in the pool, stroll by the beach or head back to the action in Cavill Avenue. It really lights up at night and there is fun to be had by all. Why not try some of the local seafood the region is famous for?

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Day Two

Day two of our Gold Coast self drive itinerary takes us south, across the border and into New South Wales. Ok, it’s not strictly the Gold Coast, but who can say no to Byron Bay when it’s lapping at your door step? It wouldn’t be a Gold Coast Road trip without hitting the highway, so lets go.

We’ll be crossing the border into New South Wales today. You’ll see some signs, but there’s no crossings or checkpoints as such. You’re heading into sugar cane country now. You’ll find the freeway is lined with sugar cane farms. If you’re so inclined, take an early exit and find a back road. They make a great backdrop for an Instagram shot.

Byron Bay

It’s an easy hours drive from the southern end of the Gold Coast to Byron Bay. Its relaxed vibes are hard to ignore and you’ll just be able to tell your close by before the signs hint your arrival. We’re starting with iconic and heading to the light house first. If you’re feeling energetic you can hike to the top, otherwise there is limited parking at the peak. The café serves coffee and snacks to fuel your adventure. It’s an easy walk once you’re at the top and the views are spectacular. Make sure you’ve got a couple of gold coins in your pocket. The binoculars will come in handy for whale spotting if it’s the right season.

A Gold Coast road trip takes up a lot of energy and there’s no better place than Byron for delicious fresh food. The town centre can get quite hectic, so head out of town 5 minutes to the Treehouse on Belongil. It’s got a lush tropical vibe and with the choice of traditional seating our couches, it’s somewhere you could get very comfy.

The Treehouse café is just a stone’s throw from the Byron Bay Train – the world’s first solar train. It’s old world carriages meets new world technology. This short and sweet ride is well worth the visit, so check out the timetable to make sure your schedules line up.

Now that you have explored all that the Gold Coast has to offer…

Sadly it’s time to head back to the airport. Make sure you refuel your car just before you return to the airport for the speediest turn around. Hand the keys back to one of the friendly staff and reminisce about your Gold Coast Road Trip and all of the wonderful memories you’ve made.

Laura Robinson is a Melbourne-based Aussie who blogs at Passport Collective. She recently returned from two years exploring her heritage in the UK. Having the freedom to hit the road and travel at her own pace is her favourite way of exploring a new place. You can follow her most recent adventures on Instagram.

All over the world, there are interesting places to explore, people to meet and sights to see. The great thing about this is that you have the opportunity to see it for yourself. With this in mind, VroomVroomVroom has put together a list of the most interesting drives in the world, because after all, you only live once right? If you want to get out and explore this beautiful place we call home, make sure you book your car rental with VroomVroomVroom.

The Most Scenic Drive in Canada – Icefields Parkway, Alberta

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Soaring mountains surrounding this stretch of road, are so close, you will be in awe of the beauty that is around you. When you drive through Icefields Parkway, you will think you are looking at a postcard (yep, it’s that picturesque). When you thought that stunning views like this were enough, Icefield Parkway has over 100 ancient glaciers dotted in and around the area – plus epic waterfalls and lakes in the valleys.

The Most Scenic Bridge in New South Wales – Sea Cliff Bridge, Australia

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Sea Cliff Bridge is a stunning stretch of road that is located in Illawarra, New South Wales. This would have to be one of the most stunning and scenic bridges in Australia, like come on, how beautiful! Sea Cliff Bridge follows the coastline of New South Wales connecting two small towns, however the drive down the East Coast of Australia is visually stunning and worth checking out. The countless amazing beaches and scenery means that your passengers better be camera ready because something beautiful and interesting will always be on the horizon.

The Highest Main Road in New Zealand – Crown Range Pass, Otago

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Situated between Wanaka and Queenstown, Crown Range Pass is the highest main road in New Zealand at a crazy altitude over 1000 metres! The zigzag effect is designed this way so it is easier for vehicles to travel up the steep incline.

The Sharpest Bend in France – Ardèche

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The French Alps are full of stunning views and things to see. This road is tucked away in the Ardèche region and is full of greenery and interesting sights to see. From the rivers to the caves, you will always find fascinating places to visit and see, just like this road.

The Best Place to Go Off Roading in the US – White Rim Road, Utah

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White Rim Road is located in the Canyonlands National Park where the landscape is an amazing burnt orange colour. As far as the eye can see are rock structures and eye-catching formations that are typically staggered. This is not for the faint-hearted and is completely off road. Don’t be fooled by the name, because this place is anything but white!

Note: VroomVroomVroom does not allow their hire cars to be taken off road.

The Windiest Road in Switzerland – Julier Pass

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Located in the east of Switzerland, Julier Pass is found in the Albula Alps. This road is interesting because it has twists just like the one in this photo throughout the whole road. Aesthetically it’s stunning, and driving it would be a memorable experience!

The Most Difficult Road to Drive in Britain – Hardknott Pass, Sussex

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Located in the beautiful United Kingdom, Hardknott Pass lives up to its name and then some. Did you know this road is known to be one of the most difficult roads in Britain to drive? The hairpin turns in this road PLUS the fact it is on a 33% gradient makes it tricky to drive.

The Scariest Sounding Road in the US – Valley of Fire, Nevada

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Surprisingly, the Valley of Fire is located only an hour out of Las Vegas. As menacing as the name sounds, the Valley of Fire picks up it’s name from the bright red sandstone formations that were created more than 100 million years ago spread across this National Park. It’s hard to believe how close this stunning natural landscape is to the bustling Las Vegas when you are driving through the gorgeous and undisturbed desert.

Make sure to tag us on Instagram and make sure to hashtag #vroomsters!

NEED MORE TRAVEL INSPIRATION?

Read more recommendations from our travel blogger friends below:

Why Everyone Should Take a Road Trip

Inspiring Road Trip Video

The Most Amazing Roads on Instagram

The question of which gender is a safer driver often stirs up a lot of debate, with women typically stereotyped as being prone to car accidents. While neither will admit that the opposite sex are better drivers, we can look at the numbers of crashes and other car accidents over a number of years to answer this question.

Some studies have been conducted to try and answer the question of which gender is the better driver. It is a little-known fact that most major car accidents tend to happen when men are behind the wheel. However, this could just be because there are more male drivers than female drivers. I did some research to find out other reasons why some experts believe that women are safer drivers than men.

Higher rates of car crashes for men

Do you know that more men die each year of vehicle crashes than women? One of the main reasons for this fatality is that men often engage in risky driving practices such as speeding, drunk driving and not wearing safety belts. In 2016, it has been recorded that there were 12,422 crash deaths for passenger vehicle male drivers compared to 5,107 crash deaths for female passenger vehicle drivers. For more stats on car accidents, you can check out the report of Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Highway Loss Data Institute.

In another study by Safety Resource Center, men cause 6.1 million car accidents per year compared to women with 4.4 million per year. Although more women have a driver’s licence, it is suggested that men may be more at risk because of the distances they travel.

Lower car insurance rates for women

Car insurance companies calculate their risk when they determine the rates. Some of the things they look into are the vehicle’s model, make and year, and the customer’s driving record, age and credit history. So why do women pay less on car insurance than men? According to DMV, statistics tend to show that women are less likely to get into a car accident, break road rules, buy cars that are more costly to insure, and drive more miles. Because of these reasons, female drivers have cheaper insurance than male drivers.

Driving distractions

Distraction is one of the main cause of car accidents. According to a study shared by Mail Online, young men, regular drivers, neurotic people or extroverts are more likely to get distracted while driving. Whereas, older women tend to know how to handle distractions and pay more attention to their driving.

“I found that young men were among the most likely to report distraction,” researcher Ole Johansson of Institute of Transport Economics said.

“Tailored interventions to reduce driver distraction could focus on at-risk groups, such as young males with bad attitudes to distracted driving and a low belief that they can control their distraction,” he added.

Based on a previous study, women were found to be more proficient drivers than men. The tests showed men more likely to take risks such as beating the red light, driving too close to the car in front, cutting corners, and using their mobile phone.

Women, on the other hand, were more considerate and take extra precaution when driving such as stopping at red light, using their mirrors correctly and slowing down when approaching hazards.

Be prepared and protected

The truth is drivers are not safe from car accidents no matter what their gender is and how careful they drive. Being out on the road has its risks, and it is impossible to prepare for the many unexpected hazards that may arise. That’s why VroomVroomVroom offers insurance policies so our customers will have an option to get excess insurance cover for damage to rental vehicles since accidents are unpredictable.

So whether you are a female driver or a male driver, it is important to be prepared at all times since being a safe driver is something you need to prove to yourself and not to anybody else.

Note: Most of the sources used in this article are from the USA. Stats and studies may be different in other countries.