6 Safe & Smart Holiday Traveling Tips
Posted: Monday, November 30, 2009
by Johney Maron
http://www.johneymaron.com
It is the holiday season, and you know what that means - "over the river and through the woods, to Grandmother's house we go." More than half of the United States population will take a trip 50 miles or farther during the holidays, and the average trip length is over 200 miles.
That's a Lot of Traveling.
With so much to-and-fro going on during the holidays, it's a good idea to keep several smart travel tips in mind, as you get ready for your journey.
In addition to doing the customary fluids check, take your car to a mechanic and have him do a once-over. He may be able to see details that you would otherwise overlook. He may even recommend purchasing better tires, upgrading your windshield wipers for snowy weather, or tuning up your vehicle's heating system.
Pack an Emergency Kit.
If you do not have an emergency kit, it is time to get one ready. Here's what you should include: blankets, a first-aid kit, flashlight, tire chains, candles, matches, nonperishable food, water, a car repair kit, travel atlas, extra car fluids (antifreeze, oil, windshield wiper fluid), and a battery-powered, radio.
Join a Travel Club.
Consider spending a few dollars to join AAA or another travel club. In addition to providing on-the-road savings, these clubs are essentially an extra form of insurance. They will help in case you become stranded, provide towing for your vehicle, offer travel advice, alert you to traffic updates, and provide other services. It is a wise investment that you will be thankful for.
Buy Comprehensive Insurance.
With the difficult travel conditions, harsh weather, and extra miles traveled during the holiday season, comprehensive vehicle insurance is a great idea. Comprehensive insurance will protect you in case of a fire, theft, flood, hail, animal collision, falling trees, wind, or vandalism. If anything happens, comprehensive insurance can keep your holiday from turning into a nightmare.
Notify Others.
Before you leave, be sure to give a quick "heads up" call to those who know you will be traveling along with an estimated time of arrival. Let them know that you are leaving, and when you expect to arrive. If you can, let some friends or other family members know of your travel plans in case you encounter a delay or accident.
Keep Your Cell Phone Charged and Turned On.
Your cell phone could become your best friend in case of an accident. Ensure that you have adequate charge to last the duration of the trip. It is important to have a car charger with you in case your cell phone loses power. In addition, make sure that you have the phone numbers for the people or location you are visiting.
Traveling during the holidays can be fun, it can at times be boring, but it never needs to be dangerous. Be sure to follow these 6 steps and practice safe driving wherever you travel this holiday season.
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As a medical device salesman, Johney Maron spends a lot of time traveling. He understands how important it is to be prepared for anything from needing a hotel room to fixing a flat. Because of this, his favorite gift is a travel gift card. Current Gift Cards is THE place to find the perfect gift card from restaurants to spa retreats. Visit today to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list.
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