5 Tips for Labor Day Travel Success

According to a recent AAA survey, there will be approximately 34.4 million people traveling at least 50 miles by car over Labor Day weekend. If you're one of those planning to brave the gridlock (and the sobriety checkpoints) for one last summer road trip, consider the following tips to help you get from here to there with your safety and sanity intact.

1. Plan Your Route and Departure Times
There's nothing worse than watching precious minutes tick by, hours from your destination, while sitting in gridlock traffic. Fortunately, you can avoid predictable rush-hour if your itinerary includes avoiding traveling during peak travel times. Consider driving after 8pm or before dawn when less people are on the road. Pack pillows and blankets and let the kids sleep for most of the ride; just make sure you're caffeinated enough to stay awake. If driving at night is not an option for you, try planning an alternative route. Take the scenic drive instead of the major highway, for instance.


2. Pack for Passengers' Entertainment
If you're traveling with young kids you'll want to keep them amused for the entire ride. Fun travel games could turn tedious car time into an opportunity for family bonding. If quiet time is more your thing, consider investing in a portable DVD player and let the kids watch movies. Or crank up the music by plugging in the best iPod adapters. Fun compilation mixes or books on CD could appeal to the entire family and help you sidestep arguments as well!


3. Prepare for the Worst
Before getting on the road, make sure you're armed with essential road-safety gadgets that can help you with a flat tire, dead cell phone, or a serious roadside accident. Also, invest in an emergency roadside kit and let someone at home and your intended destination know which route you're planning on taking and your approximate arrival time. In the event that something does come up, you'll be ready to take it on, and even if the trip goes smoothly the preparation will keep your mind at ease.


4. Bring Road-Friendly Foods
Extended time in the car often means filling up on rest-stop junk food and wasting previous travel time. Skip the unnecessary time and money expense by bringing healthy snacks that won't wilt or spoil during hours on the road. Pack chic picnicware and a gourmet lunch in coolers, stop for a little driving R&R somewhere off the highway, and you'll add some scenic splendor to your long-distance commute.


5. Dress for Success
The only thing worse sitting in a car seat for an extended period of time is doing it in uncomfortable clothes. Avoid unnecessary torture by forgoing tight waistbands, wrinkle-prone outfits, and tight shoes and dress in your comfiest clothing that will take you straight from the car to weekend fun. Then sit back and enjoy the ride!

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Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.

photo credit: istockphoto.com