Hit the road for the holidays and take the easy route. No need to stew over things you can plan ahead. Once you decide, “yes, we are driving to mom and dad’s for the holiday”, it’s time to start getting organized from top to bottom or rather hood to trunk!

Our tips:

Before you leave:

Leave a light on in the house

Double check all appliances are off – check more than your stove. Include the dryer, one of the greatest sources of home fires.

Don’t forget to unplug electronics and items susceptible to power surges

Switch off water during winter months to avoid broken pipes

Close and lock windows

Don’t leave an “I’m gone for vacation” message on your phone

Cancel mail delivery and newspapers too

Budget – plan for not only gas, but just in case situations. This means having credit cards with available limits where you can charge needed items in an emergency (car repair, tire replacement, a hotel, car rental).

Save money on gas

Pack the vehicle as lightly as you can

Follow the speed limit

Avoid aggressive stops & starts

Have the correct tire pressure and tire tread – check it before leaving

Use a map or GPS so you don’t get lost

Rent a fuel-efficient car

Use the app Gas buddy- keeps you up to date on where the stations are located and the best prices

Need accommodations

Best to plan ahead

Last minute bookings or walk up bookings can be more expensive

Check on-line if you find you need a room at the last minute – use your smart phone

The app Roadtrippers can help you find last minute accommodations, dinning and events in the area you are driving through

Maps or GPS?

Use them for determing distances

Road & route choices

AAA is always a good source for help

Maps can’t tell you – “major road construction or traffic problems ahead”

GPS – you don’t have to take your eyes off the road

GPS – will calculate traffic and road construction and reroute you

Pack for the car:

Have the following items in the car:  Flashlights, blankets, rain ponchos, hand warmers in the winter

Food and nutritional bars – trail mixes

Pack for you:

Games and things to make the trip fun

Ipads and smart phones are great to keep the kids occupied and adults love ‘em too

Prep the car:

Take your car by your favorite garage for a check up

Check fluids, tires, lights, brakes, antifreeze and oil

Make the trip fun and stress free for you the road tripper and your family and friends waiting to see you walk through the door – healthy, rested, safe and ready to celebrate!