A few weeks ago I shared some tips for keeping your family healthy while on summer road trips. Today, I have a few more practical tips for driving long distances:
1. Before venturing off on any road trip, get an oil change and have the mechanic do a  look-over of the vehicle to make sure tires are properly inflated (very important) and fluids are topped off. This is also a good time to get your tires rotated if you haven’t done so in awhile.
2. Before you leave, make sure your license, registration and insurance are up to date. Most car insurance companies offer an option to print your “proof of insurance” online. Get a new copy (the date changes every six months) and keep these papers in your glove compartment. While you’re online, make sure you are properly covered, in case of an accident. If you have some extra time, ckeck to see if you’re paying a competitive rate by using an online motor insurance price comparison tool — even if you don’t switch companies, you can use this info to get your current insurance lowered.
3. I can’t tell you how many times I have gotten lost while on a road trip. It’s always frustrating and the lost time can set the mood for hours to come. Portable GPS systems are relatively inexpensive and have uses beyond just getting from point A to point B — they can redirect you in case of traffic or an accident, and in an emergency, guide you to the nearest medical facility. Make sure to purchase a GPS with turn-by-turn directions, and a big screen that can be securely mounted on the dash.
4. When driving in inclement weather, err on the side of caution. Be very mindful of the speed limit and stay in the right lane — in my opinion, there is never a reason to pass when it is pouring rain. If you experience any issues with visibility, from rain or fog, pull over in a safe location and wait it out.  Safety should always be number one.
5. Use cruise control to help maximize fuel usage while on the interstate, if possible. Cruising at the same speed without braking will save on gas versus accelerating and braking constantly. Also, while using air conditioning uses more gas than going without, the alternate of driving with your windows down does not save more fuel than using AC — the drag on the vehicle is actually greater, so keep your family cool!
I’m planning a road trip to Key West with my family this summer … where are you headed?
