Summertime is the most popular time of year to hit the road and go on a trip, but what many travelers don’t realize is that fall is also a great time of year for a road trip. Whether you’re packing up the car to go camping one last time before winter strikes or traveling with friends for a weekend festival, there are holiday travel safety tips to keep in mind to make it a memorable and enjoyable trip with these holiday travel safety tips.
Holiday Travel Safety Tips: Autumn Road Trip (Health & Safety Tips) for Long Distance Driving Tips for Road Trips
#Get a Tune Up
It’s always a good idea, before hitting the road, to have your car checked out. If you’re due for an oil change, get it done prior to your trip. Have your trusted mechanic check out your vehicle’s fluids, brakes, and battery. Don’t forget one of un noticed holiday travel safety tips to measure the air in your tires and adjust accordingly (don’t forget your spare). If you haven’t changed your windshield wipers in about six months, replace your blades and make sure your wiper fluid reservoir is full.`
In addition to getting an “ok” from your mechanic, keep your owner’s manual on hand and double check that you have your insurance information available in the event that your car breaks down and needs a tow.
#Emergency Kit
It’s always better to be over prepared than underprepared. Although you may not encounter an emergency while on the road, it’s best to be ready. Pack a simple emergency kit that includes, but is not limited to: first aid kit, a blanket, flashlight, non-perishable foods, water, multi-purpose utility tool, and jumper cables.
#Dress for All Kind of Weather
Fall weather can change at any moment, giving you warmth and sunshine in the morning and cold and rainy in the afternoon. When you’re packing up for your trip, plan for unexpected weather and clothing that can be worn comfortably in layers. Take a quick look at the projected forecast for your trip and try to pack accordingly.
#Load Up the Car with Safety in Mind
Loading up a vehicle for any length of trip can often feel like a challenging puzzle. Make sure that you are not blocking any of your blind spots, mirrors, or windows. Utilize trunk space and if you have a roof rack or roof pod/box use that, but just make sure everything is secured and locked up before hitting the road.
#Healthy Food and Exercise
For many travellers, a road trip is a good excuse to try out local cuisine along the way such as decadent desserts or even a retro drive-in restaurant. While a little indulging is harmless, it’s a good idea to pack some healthy snacks to enjoy along the way. Pack a small cooler of protein packed foods such as a turkey sandwich or the classic PB&J, add some fruit and pre cut veggies, and a bag of trail mix and you’ll stay a little healthier (and feel a bit better) as you travel. Don’t forget to drink water and limit your intake of caffeinated and sugary drinks.
Exercising on your road trip may be difficult, but it’s a smart idea to get out and stretch your legs from time to time. Whether you stop at a rest area or the gas station, do some simple stretches or a brisk walk to keep your circulation flowing and your body limber.
#Ditch Distractions
Distracted driving continues to be a problem on U.S. roads. Although talking or texting and driving is a major factor in accidents every year, anything that takes your mind, hands, and eyes off the road is considered a distraction. If you’re the driver, ask your passengers to be quiet (particularly in heavy traffic areas) and never use your cell phone while driving. Having difficulty ignoring your phone? Put your passenger in charge of your phone, set an automatic response to all texts and phone calls, or put your phone out of reach.
#Download Helpful Apps
Although your smartphone can be a distraction, it can also be a holiday travel safety tips tool when traveling. Before you hit the road, download apps that can keep you informed along the way. For instance, a weather app can keep you on top of the weather as you travel. Want to know who has the cheapest gasoline or what the road conditions are like? There’s an app for those, too.
#Watch for Road Construction & Traffic Congestion
Although summer is the season of road construction, depending on where you’re traveling, some road work may still be in effect (particularly if the weather is agreeable). Be attentive to any signs posted and stay focused and alert in all construction zones.
In and around construction zones, traffic is often congested. As you would in any other traffic congestion, drive defensively and pay attention to the motorists around you.
#Be Well Rested
Not getting enough sleep can not only be detrimental to your physical and mental health, but it can also put you at greater risk of being involved in or causing a car accident. According to the National Sleep Foundation, driving after you’ve only had a few hours of sleep can deem you unfit to drive safely. If you’re on a longer road trip,these holiday travel safety tips will be handy and take frequent breaks to avoid falling asleep at the wheel.
Author Bio
Donna Fitzgerald is an avid reader and writer, who enjoys living along the coast of North Carolina. Entertained by her loving daughters, Donna stays active within her neighborhood, and is passionate about health and family wellness. In her free time, you can find Donna curled up reading her favorite novel, or writing in her journal.
