Summer might be the time of year the Bay is thriving – bringing plenty of sunshine, good beats, fabulous food and brilliant beach weather – but it's also the time of year to take a deep breath when you're out and about on the newly-chocka Bay roads.

While it's important to stay patient in the traffic, there are a few other travel tips worth knowing if you're driving during the silly season.

The New Zealand Transport Agency says extra care should be taken when driving in the holiday peak period because people often drive tired and around unfamiliar streets. Being patient and polite, as well as scheduling regular breaks can help drivers keep their cool.

NZTA recommends planning ahead where possible – check your vehicle has a current Warrant of Fitness and registration to avoid nasty fines, and make sure your vehicle is in proper – and safe –working order before traveling.

To help reduce stress, plan to avoid high-traffic peak times and allow plenty of time to get to and from destinations.

Drive to the conditions – and this doesn't just include weather. Conditions means the road you're traveling along, the traffic conditions, a sensible speed, your own alertness, and your vehicle or load.

These things all contribute to the conditions you need to be aware of when driving.

And of course, wear your seatbelt.