This holiday season, AAA is forecasting that nearly one in three Americans will take a trip. This means that for the first time, the number of holiday travelers expected to travel 50 miles or more from home may top 100 million. With so many on the road, we wanted to share a few travel tips.
Number One: Give Yourself Plenty of Time
If you are traveling by air or over the roads, make sure that you give yourself plenty of time. You never know what type of traffic that you’ll get.
Number Two: Tap Into the Apps
Using your vehicle’s GPS system is helpful when traveling by car. You’ll be able to avoid congested areas and alternate routes are often suggested by in car systems. Additionally, take a look at the following apps for getting you to your destination in a safe and timely manner:
Google Maps
If you do not have an in-car navigation system, Google Maps will do the job for you. Plug your phone into the audio system of your vehicle and you’ll be as good as any other driver on the road with GPS.
Waze App
The Waze app is available on android and Apple devices. This is a community based app in which other drivers update accident and traffic alerts in real time.
Number Three: Vehicle Check Up
It is always a good idea to give your vehicle regular maintenance, but if you are traveling farther than usual, have it checked just for your trip. This includes making sure the tires are properly inflated and that your fluids have recently been topped off.
Number Four: Have a Backup Plan
You never know what type of weather you’ll run into, or if your car will entirely cooperate. It is a great idea to make sure that you have an emergency kit in your car. This should include safety flares or reflective devices to alert other drivers on the road. It should also include water to prevent dehydration should you be waiting for a long period of time. A warm blanket is ideal to keep in the vehicle as is a first aid kit.
Are you one of the 100 million or more that are traveling this holiday season? What are your favorite travel tips? Share them with us on our Around Woodstock Facebook page.
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