Roads will be busier than usual with local holidaymakers eager to leave behind memories of lockdown, as well as Victorians travelling to interstate for long-awaited reunions with family and friends.

Leader of The Nationals Peter Walsh encouraged people travelling over the holiday period to take special care and avoid distractions.

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"While the boost in travellers will be a boon for Bendigo and the regions smaller towns along the highway as people take a break at Marong, Elmore or Bridgewater, more traffic means we need to be even more mindful of driving to arrive," he said.

"Tragically, we have seen a 10 per cent increase in the state's road toll this year with 232 lives lost on Victorian roads.

"I encourage drivers to be vigilant and allow plenty of time to arrive at their destination safely."

One of the biggest risks associated with driving in these circumstances is fatigue, with Transport Accident Commission data showing drowsy driving contributes to 16-20% of all fatalities on Victorian roads.

Sleep deprivation is a key risk factor and research shows being awake for 17 hours has the same effect on your driving ability as a blood alcohol concentration of 0.05 and going without sleep for 24 hours has the same effect as a blood alcohol level of 0.1 - double the legal limit.

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"Taking a break during long drives not only helps combat drowsy driving, it is also a great opportunity to contribute to local economies on your way to visit family and friends this summer," Minister for Roads Ben Carroll said.

"Fatigue is a major cause of crashes in Victoria - we mustn't let our excitement of reuniting with loved ones distract us from the risks posed by driving long distances. The best present you can give your loved ones this festive season is your presence."

As well as being well rested before hitting the road, the key to a relaxing and safe road trip is planning ahead, and drivers are encouraged to plan a rest break every two hours.

""Please don't hesitate to drop in at a driver reviver site on your travels where you will be welcomed by amazing SES and Lions Club volunteers," Mr Walsh said.

The TAC will also be helping drivers stay rested this summer with 'Pause Stops' along major regional routes, where people can enjoy complimentary barista-made coffee, comfortable deck chairs for a 15-minute powernap and games to entertain children while parents relax.\

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"Victorians deserve a happy and relaxing summer with those closest to them, and the key to that is planning ahead," Transport Accident Commission chief executive Joe Calafiore said.

"There are plenty of places to stop all throughout the state, take your time so you can get to your destination safely.

"If you find yourself daydreaming, missing exits or drifting from your lane, take a break and consider a 15-minute powernap. "

Pause Stops will also host a range of market stalls run by local businesses to support local economies after what has been another difficult year for the state's tourism industry.

The TAC has worked closely with the VICSES to identify key locations for rest stops along major, high-traffic arterial roads.

The TAC's Pause Stops will complement the SES's Driver Reviver sites which will also be set up across the state.

Further information on the Pause location sites and map of their locations can be found at tac.vic.gov.au/pausestop

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