Last Minute Tips for a Safe and Fun Family Road Trip This Labor Day
As summer draws to a close, many Americans are gearing up for one last adventure: the Labor Day road trip. This year, a whopping 75% of Americans are expected to hit the road, making it one of the busiest travel weekends of the year. As the holiday approaches, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and family fun. Here are some essential tips to ensure your trip is a memorable and hassle-free one.
Tire Safety: Where the Rubber Meets the Road
While tire safety is crucial for any road trip, but it doesn't have to be overly complicated. Here are some simple tips to keep in mind:
1. Don't over-inflate it
- Inflate your tires to the pressure indicated on the vehicle's placard for optimum performance.
- Check tire pressure when tires are cold, at least three hours after driving.
2. Rotate and align
- Rotate your vehicle's tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles to achieve even wear.
- Check alignment periodically, especially if you feel any pulling or vibration.
3. Lighten the load
- Avoid overloading your vehicle as this can reduce tire life.
- Consult the owner's manual for the vehicle's maximum load capacity.
Tips for a family road trip
Beyond tire safety, here are some additional tips to ensure a fun and stress-free stay family road trip:
1. Packaging essentials
- Prepare a “packing list” on the day of departure in the morning for last-minute items such as phones and chargers.
- Pack a cooler with bottled water and snacks to keep everyone hydrated and energized.
2. Entertain the kids
- Download movies or educational apps in advance to avoid running out of data.
- Bring dry erase markers and chalkboards for mess-free creative drawing sessions.
3. Plan rest areas
- Take regular breaks to stretch, use the bathroom, and change drivers if necessary.
- Look for parks or scenic areas where children can play and run.
4. Make sure the vehicle is ready
- Before you hit the road, make sure your car is in good condition. Check the oil level, coolant level and tire pressure.
- Prepare a first aid kit, bottled water and energy bars in case of emergency.
5. Travel smart
- To avoid heavy traffic, consider leaving as early as possible, ideally between 5am and 7am on Friday or Saturday morning.
- Use navigation apps to stay informed about traffic conditions and find the best routes.
Tips for renting a motorhome
For those considering an RV trip this Labor Day, here are some essential tips to ensure an enjoyable experience:
1. Check insurance coverage
- Don't assume that your car insurance will cover the RV rental. Call your agent to verify coverage and check for any additional fees. Have the RV's year, make, model, value, and vehicle identification number handy.
2. Book early
- Book your RV rental as early as possible to ensure availability. Labor Day is a busy travel time and RVs are in high demand.
3. Choose the right motorhome
- Understand the different types of motorhomes and select the one that meets your needs based on size, layout and amenities.
4. Inspect the tires
- Check tire pressure, tread depth and general condition, even if the RV is new.
5. Consider additional costs
- Factor in additional costs such as rental fees, mileage and camping fees. Budget accordingly.
6. Make camping reservations
- Reserve your campsites well in advance, especially for sought-after sites. Here's an insider tip for California: Check the California Reserve Website at exactly 8:00 am. This is when they post the cancelled campsites, giving you a golden opportunity to secure a prime spot.
7. Avoid grassy areas in well-landscaped areas
- Avoid driving the camper on grassy areas to avoid sinking.
8. Daily engine checks
- Check engine oil and coolant levels daily to avoid breakdowns.
Plan ahead and enjoy the trip
Whether you’re driving a regular vehicle or renting an RV, planning ahead is essential to a successful Labor Day road trip. By following these tips and prioritizing vehicle safety, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Remember, the road trip is just as important as the destination, so take the time to prepare, stay safe, and enjoy your vacation adventure to the fullest.
