“The holiday season is a perfect time to reflect on our blessings and seek out ways to make life better for those around us.” -Terri Marshall.
People wait for the holiday season for various reasons. While some are excited to meet their near and dear ones. Others begin planning for holiday vacations weeks in advance. Of course, there are a few that believe in the “it’s never too late” concept and go for last-minute arrangements.
As you are reading this article at this instant, we presume you are in the latter category. Even so, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll share a few traveling tips before you hit the road so that you and your family enjoy a safe and merry Christmas.
Prepare Your Home For When You Are Away
Make sure that your home’s security system is operational, including all alarms, motion sensors, cameras, and other surveillance devices.
If you typically monitor your security system with an app, think about adding 24/7 professional supervision to your surveillance system for the month you’ll be away.
In addition to enhancing protection with an alarm system, disable mail and any scheduled deliveries. If you’re planning to be gone for a while, ask a friend or neighbor to keep an eye on your house. If you live somewhere that gets snow, make plans to have the snow cleared while you’re away.
Inspect Your Vehicle Beforehand
Travelers frequently experience mechanical problems over the holidays. Obviously, you do not wish to find yourself stranded on the side of the street in the freezing weather. So, it would be best to prepare in advance.
Bring your car in for an inspection and any needed repairs. Pay special attention to your tires; make sure they are prepared for winter driving and properly inflated. Get a safety cone, carjack, flashlight, and jumper cables ready for an emergency kit for your car.
It is also important to understand that you can not be responsible for the reckless behavior of other drivers on the road. This is the reason why, every year around this time, the number of accident cases increases.
So, in addition to all the preparations, you must stay in touch with the vehicle collision attorney to call them as and when an emergency occurs. The professionals will further ensure that, in case of a severe accident, you get appropriate compensation.
Share Your Travel Itinerary With Someone
Give a family member or friend a copy of your itinerary and any relevant contact details before you depart. In this manner, whether you are leaving the house or returning home, it will be simple to contact you in case of an emergency.
Additionally, give this person copies of identification documents. These can come in handy if anything goes wrong. A different set of photocopies should be kept in your luggage as well.
Learn How To Drive On Icy & Heavy Traffic Roads
Learn how to drive safely on snowy, wet, or slushy roads by doing your research. Here are some essential things to bear in mind:
- Till the roads have been plowed and sanded, avoid driving.
- Give yourself additional time to get there, so you don’t have to hustle in bad weather.
- Reduce your pace as necessary.
- To stop safely on slick roads, give yourself a lot of space behind other cars.
Likewise, don’t speed up when the traffic is heavy. It can lead to collisions. Instead, learn about the alternate routes, use the latest navigation systems to avoid traffic, and follow all the state guidelines issued during the holiday season to control rush hours.
Make Sure To Stay Hydrated And Rest Well
Dehydration might not be at the forefront of your priority list of holiday travel safety risks, but drinking insufficient water can result in exhaustion or a loss of alertness, both of which are harmful on the road. Keep a few water bottles around, and drink from them frequently to stay hydrated throughout the journey.
Similarly, driving in the cold might be more exhausting than in the summer. Make frequent stops to stretch your legs or rest your body. Maintaining an energy level that will allow you to drive safely is critical. Even a brief break every couple of hours will help you maintain a high energy level.
To Sum It All Up
Holidays are the best time of the year, bringing in positivity all around. So, if you are determined to go on a Christmas and New Year vacation, follow the safety tips given above. Also, don’t forget to leave the stress at bay and enjoy this new season to the fullest. Happy Holidays!