Break-downs, car crashes and flight delays.
Summer holidays can be fraught with travel problems but experts say preparation and keeping your cool can stop problems boiling over.
The AA is urging drivers to be considerate, consistent and careful as New Zealanders take to the roads this summer.
AA spokesman Mike Noon said keeping a good following distance was one of the best things a driver could do.
"Tail-gating a vehicle in front of you gives you less time to react to the unexpected, annoys the driver in front and is likely to cost you more fuel due to heavy braking and acceleration."
Other advice includes matching your speed to the conditions and traffic flow.
Motorists are being urged to check their oil as almost half of New Zealanders are driving around with either dangerously low or dirty oil in their engines.
VTNZ chief executive Mike Walsh said not enough oil or dirty oil could ruin engines over time, significantly reducing the lifespan of a car.
"We're also seeing a lot of cars with no oil on the dipstick whatsoever, meaning those engines are not far away from seizing, causing the owner a very costly repair," Mr Walsh said.
Another problem which could cause chaos for your summer holiday is low tyre pressure - seen in more than a quarter of vehicles on the road.
Mr Walsh urged drivers to check their cars before taking to the roads.
"It's really worth checking these things before you go. It will not only save you money but is also important for your safety and the safety of your family."
Maintaining your car and driving safely can have the spin-off of saving money on petrol.
The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) says motorists can save up to 20 per cent more fuel by adjusting their driving style and keeping their vehicle well tuned.
And new research shows that driving fuel-efficiently also reduces your chance of being involved in a crash.
A joint research project by the AA Research Foundation and EECA compiled the results of studies into fuel-efficient driving from around the world.
A study of 350 drivers working for Canon found they had 35 per cent fewer crashes after adopting fuel-efficient driving techniques, while a German company experienced a 25 per cent reduction in crashes, and a New Zealand truck operator recorded 56 per cent fewer safety incidents over six months.
Mr Noon said it made sense that there were safety benefits for drivers who were trying to get the most out of their fuel by being more aware of their driving and road conditions.
If you're going further afield and travelling by air, The Flight Centre advises keeping calm to find a solution.
"Major disruptions are relatively rare and most people will have no problems," Flight Centre New Zealand executive general manager Mike Friend said.
"If a problem does arise, travellers will find ... they do have options in terms of changing plans or simply getting home."
Mr Friend advised not rushing in to change plans in the event of travel disruption - you may be able to travel as planned.
"By waiting, you will also avoid the frustration of the inevitable lengthy on-hold queues that occur immediately after an event and potentially, additional charges that may apply if you choose to amend a booking that is still months away."
Check your travel insurance policy - and make sure you have one before you leave home.