Holiday Travel Survival Guide
Nov 20, 2012
It's that time of year again where we visit our family and friends, and give thanks that we made it to Aunt Sally's house for Thanksgiving in one piece! Thanksgiving is one of the heaviest travel times of the year and an estimated 42.5 million Americans will be traveling during the holiday. 39.1 million of those people, or 91%, will be traveling by car. We here at webuyanycar.com want to help get you and your car safely through the journey.
When should you travel?
The English Colonists might have had a tough journey on their way to Plymouth, but one thing they did not have to deal with was traffic.
The Wednesday before the holiday is typically the busiest travel day. Many people don't have to work the Friday after Thanksgiving and they want to be able to spend more time with family and friends. They choose to make an extended trip and that is why Sunday is the next busiest day of travel because of the return trip. You might want to avoid these peak travel times if you want a more enjoyable, traffic-free, trip. AAA offers a free mobile App for iPhone and Android devices to help you plan your route, find current gas prices and nearby member discounts, as well as access to AAA roadside assistance if your car breaks down. You can also check out Beat The Traffic, which provides real-time traffic information and maps for most major U.S. cities. Because traffic can happen to the best of us.
Holiday Travel Safety Tips:
- Make sure your car is healthy: check brakes, battery, tire pressure, fluid levels, and headlights.
- Fill up the gas tank and stock the glove compartment with a first aid kit and flashlight. Bring along jumper cables, flares and blankets in case of an emergency.
- Check your tire treads to make sure the tread is deep enough for traction. Your tire should be a little less inflated in the winter and close to maximum pressure in the summer.
- Don't forget to check the spare!
If you don't think your car will be able to make the voyage, consider renting a car. Daily rates for car rentals over Thanksgiving week average about $40 and it would still be a cheaper alternative to flying. You'll also be able to bring your secret family Cranberry Sauce recipe that Aunt Sally entrusted you to bring. You know, the one with the ridges on the side?
Another good travel safety tip: do not advertise that you will be out of town or away from home. It's tempting to leave messages on your blog, Twitter, or Facebook, but it's not always wise. That information is broadcast to hundreds of people and you could open yourself to trouble while you are away.
Regardless of how many miles you'll put on your used car during the holiday commute, you canclick here for a free valuation of your vehicle. webuyanycar.com wants to buy your vehicle regardless of its condition, year, make or model. We hope that everyone has a safe drive and a happy holiday. If you have other holiday travel tips to share, post them on our Facebook Page orTweet them to us.
