by Carolyn Noblett

Created on: December 10, 2009   Last Updated: May 01, 2012

Getting from one destination to another in today's world is a pleasant event. From climate control to satellite radio your trip can be enjoyable and safe. Even if your vehicle is not new and doesn't have On-Star it will still have safety devices such as seat belts and air bags. Many new vehicles have a child restraint system built in. Your chances of arriving unscathed and in a great mood are much better if you follow a few safety tips.

Complete a thorough car inspection. Check all hoses, fluid levels and brakes. Take a tool kit, spare indicator lights, and engine coolant of the type recommended for your vehicle. You need a flashlight, a spare tire in good repair, and flares wouldn't hurt. Throw a blanket in the trunk just for extra measure.

Many insurance policies, and even auto warranties provide 24 hour Road Service so before you buy this item check with your auto insurance carrier and your auto warranty. If you are not sure about the warranty call your automobile dealer and have them explain that part to you. These plans come in different levels of Silver or Gold for example. You may be pleasantly surprised. If you find that you are not already covered now might be the time to buy it.

Do not drink alcohol, and don't get behind the wheel after having even a couple. Period. More lives have been lost due to this one factor than one could ever imagine. Stay off of the cell phone while on the road. Carry it with you but let your co-pilot handle the calls or just pull off to see who called. Be sure and carry a car charger. 

Avoid driving at night. If you are sightseeing you are not going to see much anyway. Driving in the daytime is the better alternative, and it is usually much easier to find a room and get settled in while there is still daylight. It's also much easier to see what is ahead of you. Use the night to have a decent meal, shower and much needed rest.

A GPS system can be purchased for as little as $100.00. It would be wise to buy it a couple of weeks before your planned trip so you can experiment with it and find out how it works. You will also need to connect it to your computer, go on-line and let it update so that it has the latest road information. If you can't afford one, try to borrow one. It can be invaluable when navigating through the big city.

If you are planning far enough ahead, you may have time to go online and  visit each state that you will be going through. You can check out the sights, order information, flyers and free maps. It's really nice to have the map before you get there. Google the route before you go.

Always practice your normal safe behavior when going in and out of convenience stores and getting in and out of your car. Sometimes being on a trip can lull one into a false sense of security. Make sure your kids have rules to follow about who to talk to and where they can go.

Carry some water and nutritious snacks and don't forget a camera. Who wants to go anywhere in this day and age without a digital camera? It's not for safety, it's just for fun. There shouldn't be any reason why you can't be safe and have fun at the same time.

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