Whether you’re headed to Grandma’s house for an old-fashioned Christmas or to a place in the sun for some holiday relaxation, getting there can be cheaper and often more fun if you drive. But road trips can carry their own brand of mishaps if you don’t plan ahead, say the trip-meisters at the Automobile Club of America.
AAA suggests six ways to help make your family’s road trip enjoyable and worry-free:
Don’t advertise – Do not post your plans to leave town on your Facebook page or other public venues. An empty house can lure robbers, so keep your travel plans relatively quiet – although it’s wise to leave a copy of your route and itinerary with a trusted friend or relative.
Travel safe – Have your car checked out before you leave to minimize roadside emergencies. Stock it with flares, water, protein bars, blankets, your cell phone charger and kitty litter for tire traction if you will be traveling in icy regions. Also, put any maps or other evidence that you are traveling into the trunk or glove compartment when you stop for meals or a rest stop. You don’t want to alert thieves that there may be valuables in your car.
Make it comfy – If you’re traveling with kids, it’s best to keep them well-fed and entertained. Pack portable DVD players, handheld game systems, or travel versions of favorite board games. Check online for some popular road games, like license plate alphabet or G-H-O-S-T, and take along some on-the-go snacks like string cheese, granola bars or fruit.
Keep it relaxed – If there are two drivers in the car, switch off every few hours. Do not distract the driver with frequent requests to, “Look at that!” On the other hand, be alert to points of interests along the way that may be worth an unscheduled stop – or plan a stop or two in advance. If you can spare the time, such stops are a good way to keep everyone relaxed and happy.
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