Tips for a Flawless Family Road Trip
Getting the family together for a road travel can be quite an exercise. And between heavy traffic, exhausted or restless kids and driver fatigue, the process of “getting there” can test anyone’s diligence.
But some unhurried planning – for everything from fuel costs to hotels – will make the experience pleasurable rather than frustrating.
A offers the following advice for families planning their next road journey.
Before You Go
* Take some time to plot your travel from starting to end. Plan your travel online using www.aaamaps.com for point to point driving directions. If you don’t have access to the Internet, contact your closest local AAA travel office for a custom-made triptik.
* Figure out your petrol price. If you are looking to pinch a penny on fuel, visit www.fuelcostcalculator.com. This web site helps motorists estimate the price of fuel for their trip based on the unique vehicle’s make, model and year.
* Give your car a checkup. Have your vehicle checked by a qualified auto professional. To find a AAA Approved Auto Fixing facility in your area, visit www.aaa.com.
* Remember, timing is everything. As you plot your journey, make time allowances for traffic jams, road building and other factors that may reduce your required speed.
On the Road
* Start fresh. Instead of leaving early after staying up late packing clothes and loading your vehicle, get plenty of rest the night before your journey. Driving drowsy is extremely dangerous and results in many collapses and deaths every year.
* Be safe. Make certain that all passengers are secured properly with safety belts and child safety seats as needed. Choose the particular child safety seats for your children and make sure the seats are properly installed. Up to 90 percent of child safety seats are wrongly set up.
* Keep your family connected. If you are traveling with children, will need something to keep them busy. Be sure to get games and books to help them pass the time. Many vehicles now feature on-board DVD players that can help keep children amused for hours.
* Stop periodically to stretch your legs. Take a break every two hours or every 100 miles, particularly if you are traveling with children and pets. To avoid driver fatigue, make arrangements to substitute with other drivers. – NU
