Making Motor Trend Memories
Driving tips for ensuring a safe holiday road trip
With Christmas and New Year's Eve only a couple of weeks away, millions of Americans are preparing to hit the road to visit friends and family members. You might benefit from some car travel tips for ensuring a safe holiday road trip.
Respect the elements
As the holiday season happens to coincide with some of the worst winter travel weather, make sure you use extra caution when on the road, according to Forbes. Drive slowly on slippery roads and allow yourself extra time for braking. Also, don't try to power through dense snowstorms to make it to dinner on time. If the snow becomes too much, pull off the road and wait it out.
Map your trip
Even if you've been down a road multiple times during past holiday road trips, bring a map or GPS along with you just in case, according to WomansDay.com. Due to changes in the weather, increased traffic or construction, you may end up getting diverted from familiar routes.
Keep it slow
WomansDay.com suggests keeping your travel speed at about 60 miles per hour during an extended trip - as you pay an extra 25 cents per gallon every 5 miles per hour you drive over 60. If you're driving for several hours, this constant rate of burning fuel can begin to add up. For added safety and money-saving benefits, keep your driving slow on the highway.
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