Going on a road trip vacation? Here are some useful suggestions

For many, vacation-time means one thing, road trips. With some advance planning, your weekend getaway or cross-country trek can be trouble-free.

Q. Where can I find information to help me plan a trip?

A. Using the Internet to plan a road trip has never been easier. There are many road travel-oriented sites that offer dining, lodging, shopping, entertainment and cultural destinations along your route. You can also estimate how much extra time and distance the stops will add. Chambers of commerce and/or visitors’ bureau can provide online information such as maps, places of interest to visit, etc.

Q. What should I do to get my car ready for a long trip?

A. The American Automobile Association anticipates responding to 7.4 million vehicle breakdowns this summer. The most common causes of vehicle failure can often be discovered during a routine oil change service. Or, schedule a pre-trip check-up with your regular mechanic and alert him that you are planning a road trip and be sure to have him check the oil, tire condition and pressure, coolant and other fluids’ levels, windshield wiper function, etc.

Q. How can I occupy the kids and make a road trip educational?

A. Kids can learn a lot on the road. Give them maps of your route and point out milestones or landmarks along the way. Bonus: they won’t constantly ask, "Are we there yet?" Pit stops can also be learning opportunities.

Teach the kids how to use a gas pump, read an oil dipstick and properly check tire pressure. If you’re lucky, they may even wash the windows.

Q. What can I do to prevent driving fatigue?

A. The National Safety Council recommends the following:

•Get plenty of sleep the night before you leave.

•Avoid long drives at night. The glare of lights, both on your dashboard and outside, can dull your senses.

•Take periodic breaks. Get out of the car, walk, jog, or do light calisthenics. If you’re feeling drowsy, pull into a safe rest area or motel and sleep. Reaching your destination safely is better than never getting there at all.

This story was provided by the North American Precis Syndicate.