Are you and your family planning to drive to a holiday get-together this year? While some incidents are unavoidable and unpredictable, planning ahead and using good driving techniques are beneficial.
Here are some helpful holiday road-trip driving tips to help ensure you and your family arrive at your destination safely.
Tip 1. Check Your Vehicle
Before you head out on your holiday road-trip, make sure your vehicle is properly maintained. Here are a few key items on your vehicle you should check.
- Wiper Blades and Windshield Wiper Fluids
- Fluid Levels – Oil, Antifreeze, Brake Fluid
- Tire Tread and Tire Pressure
- Headlamp and Taillight Bulbs
- Check Hoses and Belts are not worn or frayed
While these details can be checked by car owners, if you are unsure or don't feel confident in performing these checks alone, contact one of our service advisors to make sure your vehicle is in good operating condition.
Tip 2. Plan Ahead
Plan your route in advance and check the weather report. Even if your vehicle is equipped with a manufacturer-installed navigation system or plan on using a portable GPS, bring along a paper map in the event using your GPS is not possible.
If you're traveling with children, make sure that they are properly restrained in the back seat with the proper car seat, booster seat or seat belt. Pack a selection of items to keep young travels occupied to reduce boredom and reduce distractions to the driver – books, hand-held video games or movies for vehicles equipped with a rear entertainment system are good options.
Packing some drinks and a few snacks will also help if passengers get hungry. If you're traveling with pets, be sure they are secured and restrained for everyone's safety.
Be prepared for emergencies - keep a blanket, food, jumper cables, cell phone with charger, flares and a flashlight in your vehicle. If you pack traction mats, kitty litter or sand, any of those can be used to improve traction on icy surfaces.
Tip 3. Drive Slowly & Safely
Millions of travelers take to the road during the holidays, which means heavier than usual traffic. Follow speed limits and remember that excess traffic and congestion on the roads will most likely require you to travel below posted limits.
Let impatient drivers go ahead of you to reduce the chance of an altercation or accident. Leave early to give yourself plenty of time to arrive at your destination, making time for breaks to allow for bathroom use and the ability to stretch and refocus before getting back behind the wheel.
Stay alert and eliminate distractions, using extra precautions on roads that are unfamiliar. A good night's sleep before departing is helpful in making your holiday road trip more enjoyable. Holiday gatherings can be a reason to celebrate, but if you're going to consume alcoholic beverages, don't drink and drive.
Don't forget to give yourself extra time in case it snows or the weather is bad where you are coming or anywhere on your route. The holidays can be exciting, but the last thing you should do is rush on the road.
Holiday road trips can be exciting, yet stressful. Remember to keep calm and remain focused on what's truly important – reaching your destination safely and having fun with family or friends. While some incidents are unavoidable and unpredictable, following these simple holiday road-trip driving tips can be beneficial in making your holiday road trip an enjoyable one. Start your next holiday road-trip in a new Mazda from Ramsey Mazda.
Happy Holidays from Ramsey Mazda!
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