Millions of people are expected to travel 50 miles or more from their homes this Thanksgiving, marking a significant increase in holiday travel. While many will choose to fly to distant destinations or popular vacation spots, travel experts predict that most Americans will be taking to the roads during the holiday weekend.
Although fewer in number, some individuals will opt for alternative modes of transportation, such as cruise ships, buses, or trains, in search of convenience or unique holiday experiences.
Traveling during the holiday week can make anyone anxious, especially if you’re driving. MAPFRE Insurance put together a few quick tips to help ease stress and safely get you and your family to your destination.
Get a tune up:
Before leaving, ensure your vehicle is in excellent condition for a long drive. This includes changing the oil, checking the battery, ensuring the correct tire pressure, and refilling the windshield washer fluid.
Plan your trip ahead of time:
Check traffic reports and try to travel on the less popular days of the week. For reference, the least busy day is any day except Wednesday. According to transportation analytics company INRIX, the two busiest days on the roads are the day before Thanksgiving, between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., and the Sunday after, between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Aim to leave before noon on those days to avoid the heaviest traffic.
Have an emergency kit ready:
When hitting the road, be prepared for anything by packing an emergency kit. While you can buy a pre-made kit, it’s best to create your own so you know exactly what’s inside. Try to include items such as cotton pads, antiseptic wash, bandages for treating minor injuries, jumper cables, tire gauges, patches, and fluorescent road markers to assist with vehicle maintenance.
Bring entertainment:
Entertainment is vital if you’re traveling with kids or teens. Ensure all tablets, MP3 players, and portable gaming devices are charged. Bring spare headphones and chargers to avoid conflicts over who will use them next. If you want to unplug, consider bringing magazines and simple games to keep you entertained. How about a classic game of I Spy or road trip bingo? And don’t forget the snacks!
Preparing for the worst:
Consider keeping a bag of kitty litter in the trunk if you get stuck in the snow. Also, keep extra washer fluid, an ice scraper, and blankets in your trunk. These items can be invaluable in difficult travel conditions when the roads are slick.
We hope you find these tips helpful for keeping your loved ones safe while traveling on busy roads. If you’re not a MAPFRE customer yet, talk to an independent agent in your state or request a fast, free car insurance quote in Massachusetts today to see how much you could save!
