3 Prohibitions for Homecoming Travel by Private Vehicle: Exhaustion and Excess Baggage Must Not Be Underestimated
Indonesia’s 2026 Eid homecoming season is predicted to involve a massive movement of millions of people. Road safety expert from Jakarta Defensive Driving Consulting (JDDC), Jusri Pulubuhu, has urged private vehicle users to be aware of three key characteristics of homecoming journeys in Indonesia.
“The characteristics of homecoming travel in Indonesia are threefold: time, fatigue, and excess baggage,” Jusri stated, as quoted by Antara on Wednesday, 11 March.
Jusri emphasised that homecoming journeys, whether by motorcycle or car, will take significantly longer than normal days due to traffic congestion. “Homecoming travel from Jakarta to Central or East Java typically takes much longer. For example, a trip to Semarang that normally takes 6-7 hours can take over 12 hours during the Eid homecoming period,” he explained.
The dramatically increased journey duration naturally exhausts drivers and passengers, particularly those observing the Ramadan fast. According to Jusri, fatigue is a risk factor that is often underestimated yet extremely dangerous.
“Tiredness and exhaustion become companions on the journey. Because of the extended travel time, these problems emerge and drivers must not take them lightly,” Jusri stressed. He advised homecoming travellers to prepare themselves physically and discipline themselves to take adequate rest breaks throughout the journey.
The habit of carrying excessive supplies and souvenirs often causes vehicles to exceed their carrying capacity. Jusri warned that overloading not only endangers safety but also has financial repercussions.
“The habit of carrying many items during homecoming causes negative effects on vehicles. Excess load can cause rapid vehicle deterioration and significantly increased fuel consumption,” he added.
According to data from the Ministry of Transportation, approximately 143.9 million people are expected to undertake homecoming travel this year. Meanwhile, the Indonesian National Police predict that the peak of the 1447 H/2026 Eid homecoming will be divided into two waves: 14-15 March and 18-19 March 2026.