Getting the family together for a road trip can be quite an exercise. And between heavy traffic, bored or uneasy children and driver fatigue, the process of reaching there” can try anyone’s patience.
But some diligent planning – for everything from fuel costs to hotels – will make the experience enjoyable rather than frustrating.
AAA offers the following advice for families planning their next road journey.
Before You Go
* Take some time to plot your journey from beginning to end. Plan your trip online using www.aaamaps.com for point to point driving directions. If you do not have access to the Internet, contact your nearest local AAA travel office for a custom-made triptik.
* Figure out your petrol costs. If you are looking to pinch a penny on fuel, visit www.fuelcostcalculator.com. This site helps motorists estimate the cost of fuel for their travel depending on the unique vehicle’s make, model and year.
* Give your car a checkup. Have your vehicle checked by a registered 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 travel, make time margins for traffic jams, road construction and other factors that may reduce your expected speed.
On the Road
* Start fresh. Rather than leaving early after staying up late packing clothes and loading your vehicle, take plenty of rest the night before your travel. Driving asleep is extremely hazardous and results in many collapses 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 90 percent of child safety seats are wrongly installed.
* Keep your family connected. If you are traveling with children, they’ll 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 alternate with other drivers. – NU
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