Road Trips

Your guide to hitting the road

Trekking around the United States offers the potential for grand adventures. For those looking to get to their eventual destination quickly, there are the interstate highways. For those who don't mind taking the long way, there are National Scenic Byways.

No matter where you're going or what you're doing during your road trip, some simple planning can help make sure it doesn't leave you more stressed than before you left your driveway.

Let's Drive!

Whether it's a hastily planned overnighter or a meticulously thought-out excursion to discover America, here are some simple tips to ensure your road trip is a fun, safe and memorable one.

• Whip up a simple budget, factoring in gas, food and lodging. Carry some cash on hand for unexpected expenses.
• Think safety. Whether heading out with family or friends, make sure you tell someone where you're going, and bring the cell phone.
• Bring a map. If you've got a specific destination planned, get some clear driving directions.
• Go prepared. Pack some Tylenol or Advil and anti-nausea medications. Don't let something as mundane as a headache throw up a roadblock to your travel adventures. Keep them with the first-aid kit.
• Make sure your car is prepared too! Have your car inspected and tuned-up before you hit the open road.
• Know your travel buddies. If the kids are along for the ride, plan for short pit stops. The sense of excitement and adventure may quickly dissipate for everyone if the kids are bored and uncomfortable. This means pack up some travel games and the portable DVD player.
• Be ready for the unexpected. Are you covered by a roadside assistance plan? Joining AAA is a great way to make sure help is on the way if your car decides that a road trip is not in the cards.
• Plan for picnics. The ever-present drive-thru every six miles can be a sure-fire killer on the budget. So are impulsive pit stops to load up on Cheez Doodles, sodas and industrial-sized vats of coffee. Bring along a cooler stuffed with goodies. Nothing says road trip like having a quick bite under a blue sky.
• Have fun.

It used to be we could depend on the reputation and reliability of North American cars to meet our standards - but could it be the times are changing? Here in the U.S., overseas models are continuing to rise in popularity. Find out why!

PIMP IT

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