Driving during the holidays is a necessary chore for many of us. But if you plan ahead using a few easy Thanksgiving travel tips, it can be a much less stressful endeavor.
Vehicle Maintenance
If you are hitting the road and driving to your Thanksgiving destination in your car, make sure it is in good working order. Check your oil, water, washer fluid, and tire pressure. If you are unsure how to perform these checks yourself, peace of mind is well worth the cost of a visit to the dealer or local garage.
Emergency Supplies
Make sure you pack emergency supplies in case you get stranded. Take fresh containers of drinking water and non-perishable food items. If you are in colder areas, take blankets and warm jackets, tire chains, an ice scraper, and de-icer. Also, make sure you have a warm and water resistant pair of winter gloves.
Trip Planning
Plan your trip so you do not return on Sunday. It's not recommended to drive on the Sunday after Thanksgiving as this is the heaviest traffic day of the year. Try leaving Saturday or staying through Monday. Also, be sure to time your leaving so that you are well rested for the trip.
Stay Alert and Relaxed
If you are traveling to or from large metropolitan areas, you are sure to encounter stress inducing traffic jams along the way. The trick is to reduce your stress levels and remain relaxed yet alert. Consider playing some restful CDs rather than listening to talk radio. Classical music can be quite soothing on a difficult driving day. Or you might like to listen to a CD of nature sounds as you negotiate your way through traffic. If you cannot afford to purchase new CDs at a record store, you can borrow them from friends or even your local library. You'll find that you're much better able to handle the stress of driving with some pleasant sounds emanating from your car stereo. Also, consider investing in a seat cushion or a relaxing backrest. Comfort can do wonders for your frame of mind...
Entertainment
For the kids, bring along games or try simple activities such as out-of-state license plates bingo. Better yet, if your vehicle or laptop has a DVD player, take movies. There's no shame in a quiet, fight-free ride on the way home.
Drive Safely
Follow all safety warnings and laws of the road. Don't speed in a rush to make it to dinner. The bird will wait and will be much more enjoyable if you make it to your destination without traffic tickets or other mishaps along the way.
Author: Anne Jefferson
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