Heading Out of Town for the Holidays? Read This First…

Traveling for the holidays can be a lot of fun. You get to spend quality time with your family as you laugh, exchange gifts, and make new memories together. However, that also means that you will be spending a substantial amount of time on the road in less than ideal road conditions. While the wintertime is great for sledding and hot chocolate, it is not so great for driving. Before you hit the road, it is crucial that you do these four things. Even if you are the best defensive driver around, accidents can still happen.

Get Your Car Checked

Unless you have just had your car serviced within the last month, it is always a smart idea to have your car looked over before heading out of town. Get the tire pressure, oil, and other fluids checked, as well as just a general look over, to make sure nothing is going to go awry while you are anxious to arrive at your destination.

Have a Plan

Make sure that you have a route planned out that keeps you away from the high mountain passes or road construction, if possible. It is also a good idea to schedule your driving to avoid big cities around rush hour. Something else to plan in advance is what you will do if the car breaks down. Do you have roadside assistance through your insurance or through the car manufacturer? If you do, make sure you have that information programmed in your phone. You will also want to pack a first aid kit, blankets, and some food and water in the trunk just in case.

Take Turns Driving

Drowsy driving is a very real concern, especially when you are going long distances in one shot. Stock up on the chocolate, coffee, or whatever keeps you awake, and don’t be afraid to stop the second you start feeling tired. If you have more than one driver, switch often to make sure whoever is driving is at his best.

Bring a Car Charger

Nowadays almost everyone has a cell phone in case of emergencies; however, that means nothing if the phone is dead. With roaming and excessive use to stave off boredom, phone batteries seem to drain at a record pace during a road trip. Never leave home without a car charger to make sure if you do have an emergency you will be able to make a call.