5 Tips for Traveling by Car During Thanksgiving

The Thanksgiving Holiday is the busiest travel holiday of the year. Many families pack into their automobiles and head out to spend Thanksgiving with loved ones. It can turn into a ride that could have you so stressed out by the time you reach your destination, that it ruins Thanksgiving for all those involved. I have 5 tips for traveling by car during Thanksgiving that will make the experience less stressful and more enjoyable.

1) First and most important check you car over before heading out. You should have a qualified mechanic go over your car. Make sure before heading out to check your tires, the fluid levels in your water, transmission fluid and your oil. I always take a quart of oil and transmission fluid and oil and a gallon of water just incase something happens along the way. Nothing could ruin the trip worse then having a car problem and having to wait for hours for assistance.

2) If you're traveling somewhere you have never been before get good directions before heading out for your trip. Check on www.mapquest.com or http://maps.yahoo.com to get a map for your directions and print it out.

3) The busiest traffic days in the United States are Wednesday and Thursday. Most stay for the long weekend or return Thursday evening. It is best to leave Tuesday and return Friday. If you have to leave Wednesday or Thursday leave early, leave an hour or so at least before 9am as the biggest travel hours are between 9 and 12.

4) If you are taking a long trip take a rest stop every two hours to stretch your legs and use the restroom. You don't want to get overly tired before arriving at your destination.

5) If taking kids take things to keep them occupied so they don't get bored and cranky. If you have a DVD player in your vehicle take a movie for them to watch. Kids also love to draw and play games so take some crayons, markers, paper and coloring books. Take some small games that are great for cars. You could also have a sing - along with the kids.

Thanksgiving is great time for friends and family to get together and enjoy the holiday together. Traveling with the family by car also gives the family time to enjoy each others company. It makes for great memories for the future. However we have to make sure that the trip goes smoothly. Following my 5 tips for traveling by car during Thanksgiving will make the trip a safer and more fun experience for those involved. Have a safe and fun Thanksgiving holiday.