5 Tips to Make Holiday Travel All It Can Be
“Oh, there’s no place like home for the Atlantic to Pacific, the traffic is terrific…” Whether it is Memorial Day Weekend and you are taking that first getaway of the summer or it is the annual family Christmas vacation/ reunion, most of us have spent our share of time making road trips. And while for many, the time spent on the road is minimal, each year there are thousands who travel the length and breadth of America (and beyond) to see friends and loved ones. In fact, there is so much holiday travel done, that many of the roads-especially the major highways and interstates are nothing but vehicles for miles on end.
With so much traffic, what can we do to make the preparation for the trip (both going and returning) as well as the trip itself more bearable? After all, anyone who has ever travelled with children is well-acquainted with the multitude of questions and comments regarding arrival time and sharing space with siblings. With holiday travel in mind, here are a few tips to make the next trip to great Aunt Sue’s more pleasurable.
1. Make sure you have plotted the course and check a travel site such as MapQuest or Google Maps to learn of any road work or construction you may encounter. After all, there are few things more frustrating than sitting in traffic willing the road construction crew to please try to hurry!
2. Think about the best time for making your trip-especially if children are involved. For instance, if you are traveling with another driver, perhaps you could take turns driving at night so that the kids will be asleep during the majority of the drive. However, if you are making the trip solo- it is recommended that you travel during daylight hours and opt for well traveled and well-lighted roads as they will add an extra level of protection.
3. Be sure that your vehicle is in great working order before leaving. Check the oil, water level, assorted fluids, etc. and make sure that your spare tire is ready in case of an emergency. Also, be sure to pay attention to your fuel gauge-especially if traveling in regions where the gas stations are a minimum. You don’t want to run out of gas and be stranded.
4. Think about the kids. Have your kids pack a bag with books, music, dolls, cars, and trucks- whatever will help keep them occupied during the trip. You may also want to have blankets, pillows, snacks and some basic medicine (children’s pain meds, stomach medicine, etc…) in a bag or glove box. Some parents pack a bag for the kids with a change of clothes that is easily accessible in case of a spill or accident.
5. Be sure you cell phone is charged or that you have a car adapter for it, so you can call if there is an emergency. Of course, be sure to follow the city/state ordinances regarding cell use!
With just a little bit planning holiday travel can be a part of the fun. No, there’s no place like home for the holidays and when you take as many of the unexciting aspects and turn them into a trip that is well prepared for then you may even find that getting there is half the fun. So, plan your trip and go enjoy the holidays!