Road Trippin'

The unofficial start of the summer season is here! Memorial Day weekend is traditionally a time where Americans load up their vehicles and embark on adventures across the country. This year is a little different of course. With high gas prices tagging along on family vacations, many Americans are expected to stay home this weekend. A good number of Virginians however are not putting the brakes on their travel plans. AAA Mid-Atlantic predicts that 694,000 Virginians will be on the road for the holiday. So for those adventure seekers out there who are determined to hit the roads anyway, here are a few tips to ensure a fun and safe trip.

Spend some quality time with your vehicle: It might sound like a big no-brainer, but it is worth saying. There is nothing like an unexpected breakdown to stall your vacation. Check your tires for proper inflation and any uneven tread. Make sure your car is hydrated with plenty of antifreeze, engine oil, brake and transmission fluids. Taking a few minutes to inspect your car before a trip is not only safe and responsible but could save you from costly headaches.

Pack smart: Even if you have the trunk space, try not to overload your vehicle. The holiday weekend is only a few days so you will not need two weeks worth of stuff. Remember to bring important items that will come in handy in case of an emergency like a first aid kit. Also if you are traveling with kids, bring along enough supplies to keep them occupied during the long drives. Your sanity will thank you for it.

Be patient and enjoy yourself: Traveling can be stressful and unpredictable, but remember you are on vacation, so relax a bit. Prepare yourself for traffic setbacks ahead of time. You can visit the VDOT website for the latest road conditions. Lastly, take time to not only enjoy yourself, but also to remember the holiday.

For more road trip preparation tips visit the BeCarCareAware website.

The Checkered Blog wishes you a wonderful Memorial Day weekend! Check back with us over the weekend for information on Memorial Day events happening throughout Hampton Roads.