Auspicious Habits for CNY 2026
Chinese New Year is all about fresh starts, sweeping away the old, welcoming the new, and making sure everything begins on the right note. And for many Malaysians, the New Year doesn’t officially start until you’ve made the journey home.
But before you hit the highway to balik kampung, here’s a checklist of auspicious habits (and genuinely smart ones) to help make sure you arrive safe, smooth, and stress-free. Because this Chinese New Year, the goal isn’t just to reach your hometown, but to reach happy and healthy.
1. Start clean
According to tradition, cleaning symbolises clearing bad luck and making space for prosperity.
Do this before you drive:
Remove rubbish and old receipts
Clear the dashboard
Wipe mirrors and windscreen
Top up windscreen washer fluid
A clean car = clear mind + safer drive
2. Top up blessings
Prosperity flows when you’re prepared
Before leaving:
Tyre pressure + tyre condition (including spare tyre)
Engine and oil coolant
Brake feel (any squeaks or funny noises)
Battery health (especially for older cars)
Lights: headlight, brake lights, signals
This takes approximately 10 minutes but can save you from hours of roadside stress
3. Avoid back luck
This one is both superstitious and practical, don’t start a long journey half-prepared
Make it a habit to:
Start the drive with at least ¾ tank
Keep enough for emergencies and traffic jams
Plan rest stops (R&R) ahead
Long festive traffic + petrol warning light = unnecessary panic
4. Keep the journey smooth
During Chinese New Year, people say don’t rush into the new year with chaos.
On the road, that means:
Leave earlier to avoid speeding
Keep a safe following distance
Don't “fight” for lane merges
Avoid weaving lanes
Calm driving is an auspicious habit and a safe one too!
AI Generated Picture: Infographic showing auspicious habits for a safe balik kampung journey during Chinese New Year 2026.
5. No tired sleep
If there’s one thing you shouldn't bring into a long drive, it’s exhaustion
Before driving:
Sleep properly the night before
Avoid driving right after a heavy meal
Swap drivers if possible
Take break every 2 to 3 hours
A 5 minute rest is better than 5 seconds of microsleep.
6. Protect your fortune
This is the modern version of an auspicious habit: don’t start the new year under-protected
Check that:
Insurance is active and updated
Road tax is valid
You know your coverage type (comprehensive vs third-party)
Save emergency contacts and insurer hotline
Accidents don’t wait for “a better time”. It’s always better to be prepared
7. Bring good company
A little preparation goes a long way
Pack:
Phone charger/power bank
Drinking water and snacks
Torchlight
Basic first aid kit
Tyre inflator or jump starter
When travelling with your family, safety and comfort is the main priority.
8. Arrive with good luck
The most auspicious habit of all?
Don’t let the road steal your mood
Traffic will happen. Delays will happen but your family isn’t waiting for you to arrive fast, they’re waiting for you to arrive safely.
A Little Extra Luck This CNY
PolicyStreet is bringing the festive luck to you this season. Stand a chance to be a part of our lucky draw to win RM8,888 in cash when you renew your car insurance between 6 to 28 February 2026.
As you prepare for a safe journey home, let the new year start with protection, peace of mind, and a little luck on your side.
