Getting the family together for a road trip can be quite an exercise. And between heavy traffic, exhausted or restless kids and driver fatigue, the process of reaching there” can test anyone’s patience.
But some diligent preparation – for everything from fuel costs to rest stops – will make the experience pleasurable rather than frustrating.
AAA offers the following advice for families planning their next road journey.
Before You Go
* Take some time to plan your journey from starting to end. Plan your travel on the internet using www.aaamaps.com for point to point driving directions. If you don’t have access to the Internet, contact your nearest local AAA travel office for a custom-made triptik.
* Calculate your gas costs. If you are looking to pinch a penny on fuel, visit www.fuelcostcalculator.com. This website helps motorists calculate the cost of fuel for their travel based on the specific vehicle’s make, model and year.
* Give your car a checkup. Have your vehicle inspected by a certified automobile professional. To find a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility in your area, visit www.aaa.com.
* Remember, timing is everything. As you plot your travel, make time adjustments for traffic jams, road building and other factors that may reduce your expected speed.
On the Road
* Start fresh. Instead of leaving early after staying up late packing clothes and loading your vehicle, take enough of rest the night before your travel. Driving drowsy is extremely hazardous and leads to many clashes and deaths every year.
* Be safe. Make sure that all passengers are secured properly with safety belts and child safety seats as required. Choose the appropriate child safety seats for your children and make sure the seats are properly set up. Up to ninety % of child safety seats are wrongly set up.
* Keep your family engaged. If you are traveling with children, will need something to keep them busy. Be sure to bring 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, especially if you are traveling with children and pets. To keep off driver fatigue, make arrangements to alternate with other drivers. – NU
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