Plan Ahead: Carefully consider your route to determine departure and arrival times, taking into account the expected higher level of congestion on the roads. Try to avoid morning and evening rush hours in heavily populated areas.
Carry a Basic Tool Kit: Some good items to include are a hammer, a rubber mallet, an adjustable wrench, screwdrivers, wire cutters, a pair of needle-nose pliers, some baling wire, a can of WD-40 and a rag.
Bring a “Pet Kit” When Traveling with Pets: Include food, a bowl, a leash, a waste scoop, plastic bags, grooming supplies, medication, treats, and a favorite toy or pillow. Stop every couple of hours to let it stretch its legs, use the bathroom and expend some pent-up energy.
Pack Light: Avoid putting anything on the roof because the drag from such luggage can decrease fuel economy up to 21 percent. Before departing, check to see that your tires are properly inflated and examine your owner’s manual for fuel octane requirements. If your car only needs regular unleaded, then you’re just wasting money by fueling up with premium.
Avoid Being A Target: It only takes one burglary to put a damper on your road trip. Criminals sometimes target cars with travel materials like roadmaps in the front seat and tourists who look confused. At hotels and restaurants, try to park your car where you can keep an eye on it, especially if you have luggage in or on top of your vehicle. If you need to stop for a food or bathroom break, choose rest areas, gas stations, restaurants that are busy and well lit.
The free AAA Mobile app for iPhone and Android devices uses GPS navigation to help travelers map a route, find current gas prices and nearby member discounts and access AAA roadside assistance. Travelers can learn about the AAA Mobile app and AAA Mobile Web at AAA.com/mobile.
AAA projections are based economic research and research by HIS Global Insight. The Colorado-based firm teamed up with AAA in 2009 as part of an agreement to jointly analyze travel trends during the major holidays. AAA has been reporting on holiday travel trends for more than two decades.
AAA Travel is the nation’s largest leisure travel organization. AAA Travel offers trips, cruises, tours and vacation packages throughout the world. Call (888) 937-5523 for more information or visit us at your local AAA Travel office or online at www.aaa.com/travel.
AAA Utah offers a wide array of automotive, travel, insurance, DMV, financial services and consumer discounts to more than 183,000 members. AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers since it was founded more than 100 years ago.
