Despite the rapid rise of mobile devices, the majority of Australian families still prefer the traditional method of passing time during family road trips by telling stories and chatting with each other.

A recent survey by leading car rental company Hertz found almost two-thirds of Australians (64%) prefer to talk to each other while travelling - with a quarter also playing traditional games such as I Spy.

Commenting on the results, Monique Conheady from Hertz Australia/New Zealand, said: "It is heartening to see that Australian families still prioritise interacting with each other on road trips. Despite the increase of technology in all aspects of our lives, road trips are a great time to chat with family members and tell stories - even if everyone has heard them before!"

In reflection of the greater prevalence of technology today, almost one-third (30%) play games on portable devices such as iPhones/iPads and Nintendo DS - with 18% of respondents also relying on videos to pass the time. However, 14% of Australians just sit in silence.

When it comes to warming the vocal chords on road trips, one-quarter of Australians admit to enjoying a singalong - and when they do it is likely they will be bellowing 'On the Road Again' by Willie Nelson or 'Highway to Hell' by AC/DC, as preferred by 26% and 21% respectively. 'Go Your Own Way' by Fleetwood Mac is a close third, chosen by 20% of respondents.

While the majority of Australian families are happy travellers, with 55% indicating they don't argue when travelling, one in four respondents said they argued within one hour of leaving home.

Hertz is encouraging families to enjoy each other's company during Easter road trips - but to stay safe and drive within the limits. "It's great to see that most Australian's are calm travellers and don't argue, and we'd encourage all drivers to ensure they stick to the road limits, slow down in wet and dark conditions, and listen to all directives from authorities to ensure their Easter road trip is a safe and enjoyable one," added Ms Conheady.

Hertz has a range of vehicles to suit all road trips, from compact city cars to large vans and SUVs. For more information, please visit: www.hertz.com.au.

ABOUT HERTZ

The Hertz Corporation (www.hertz.com) operates its car rental business through the Hertz, Dollar and Thrifty brands from approximately 10,400 corporate, licensee and franchisee locations in Australia, New Zealand, North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Hertz is the largest worldwide airport general use car rental brand, operating from approximately 8,800 corporate and licensee locations in 150 countries. In Australia, Hertz has approximately 220 locations including all major airports, cities and a large number of regional towns. Hertz New Zealand also offers a wide range of vehicle hire options, and operates from approximately 50 locations around the country.

Hertz is in its 94th year of delivering quality car rental solutions to leisure and corporate customers.  Product and service innovations such as Hertz #1 Club Gold, Worldwide Online Check-in, specially designed NeverLost satellite navigation systems, and unique cars offered through the company's Prestige, Family, Fun/Adrenaline and Green Collections, set Hertz apart from the competition.

For more information, please contact: 

Franziska Kaestner
Consultant
E   fkaestner@iconinternational.com.au
M   + 61 424 328 260
T   + 61 2 8235 7600
F   + 61 2 8235 7607
W  www.iconinternational.com.au