With fuel prices finally on the decline, AAA is predicting a record number of people will travel by car between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day. If you'll be among them, now is a good time to get ready for the big trip.- First and foremost, make sure your car is in good working order. Examine the tread on your tires, check the condition of your wiper blades, and make sure your turn signals, brake lights, high and low beams all work. You should also make an appointment with a mechanic to have your oil changed, and the filters, belts and fluid levels checked.
- Plan your route
Once you decide where you'll be heading, plan your route. Research the roads you'll take. It's especially important to know if there's a major road construction project along your anticipated route.
- Check your plates, registration and insurance information to make sure they are all valid.
Often times people discover their insurance is about to expire just before they leave on a trip. If your insurance is about to expire, now would be a great time to shop for a new policy. Oftentimes, you can find a better rate by switching companies.
Log on to www.InsWeb.com, click on the link that says "auto insurance," fill out the form and you'll get quotes back from several companies interested in doing business with you.
- Pack an emergency kit in your car.
It should include not only everything you need for a medical emergency, but a flashlight, a blanket, two large bottles of water, $20 in cash, safety streamers, a whistle and, if you have a baby, a few emergency diapers. You should also bring along a cell phone, and keep a pencil and pad of paper on hand in case you need to write down directions or a phone number.
- Fill the car with gas before you pack the car so all the fumes won't bother your passengers. Check the fluid levels and tire pressure; your tire pressure will affect both the ride and the gas mileage you get on your trip.
Bon Voyage!
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