Planning A Road Trip

Planning � Use an atlas to make a detailed route to your destination. Make sure to plan extra time so you can drive at a calm pace. You can take less-traveled country roads to increase the beauty of your scenery. Try taking a different route on the way back for a change of pace.
Makes reservations � Make reservations ahead of time for your destination including any overnight stops you�ll need on the way there.
Check your car thoroughly � Make a pit stop at the mechanics a few weeks prior to your trip. Have him do a good check-up to make sure your car is running properly.
Check your documents � Double check the validity of your license plates and all drivers licenses, including those of passengers that might also drive. Don�t forget to check the expiration date on your insurance card as well. If you plan to go out of the country, make sure that everyone has a valid passport. You may even want to consider some kind of travel health insurance. Check the expiration and limit for any credit cards you take along.
Prepare your home � Have someone come by and get your mail, handle lawn care, or shovel the drive clear of snow if needed. Suspend your newspaper delivery for the time period you are away and set your lights with timers to give the impression you are at home. If you have an alarm system, notify the provider that you will be away from home and give contact information to a friend or relative.
Pack it in � It�s a good idea to bring some comfortable travel clothes in a lightweight bag you can keep on top of the other luggage. Make sure you are brining the appropriate clothing for the weather conditions of your destination. Your trunk should be layered with the least needed items on the bottom and the more frequently needed items on top. Fill a cooler with snacks and beverages to avoid frequent stops for munchies. If you have kids, you�ll want some games and other diversions for them. Some of your favorite CD�s or a book on tape will help cure some of the boredom on the road.
Take your time � Find some interesting landmarks or curiosities to stop at along the way. Give yourself enough spare time to stop and stretch your legs on occasion. If something interesting pops up along the way, don�t hesitate to stop and have a good time.
Keep a scrapbook � Bring an envelope or some other container and collect all the tickets, brochures, and other trinkets as you go. You might even record your thoughts and activities before you go to bed each night. After the trip you could arrange it all into a scrapbook to remember the vacation by.