Tips to Stay While Traveling on Fourth of July

OK, you've got your tire pressure and fluids checked, snacks and in-car diversions packed for the kids and your route programmed into the navigation system. You're ready for your Fourth of July holiday road trip, but beware — among the millions of other drivers out there who have the same idea, many may not be as prepared as you are.

AAA projects that nearly 41 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home during the Independence Day holiday period from July 3-7. Although that's a 0.8% decrease from the year before and 1.5 million fewer than the decade high in 2007 — primarily due to the one less day in the holiday period as July 4 falls on a Thursday — AAA advises drivers of the importance of keeping their mind on the task at hand.

"Mental distraction can lead to a type of tunnel vision or inattention blindness where motorists don't see potential hazards right in front of them," said AAA Chicago Regional President Brad Roeber in a statement. "It is not sufficient to have our hands on the wheel and eyes on the road, we also need our minds on driving."

According to AAA figures, 84% of travelers will opt for a road trip versus air travel or other means, and the average traveler is expected to go 613 miles round trip and spend $747. The greatest share of travelers (32%) will depart July 3 while the most popular date of return for travelers (38%) will be July 7.

Before you go:

Check your tires to make sure they are properly inflated and have sufficient tread remaining.

Check your car's fluids, including oil, washer fluid, engine coolant, power steering fluid, and brake and transmission fluid.

Bring along a current map of the route you will be taking. If you're using an online service, still bring detailed maps since online services don't always have the most recent road construction information.

Bring a cell phone and car charger if you have one.

While on the road:

If you take a pit stop, make sure to turn off your vehicle's interior and exterior lights. Motorists accidentally leave their lights on in all types of weather, but heat can be additionally damaging to a car's battery.

Store in your trunk a car emergency kit that includes reflectors, jumper cables, a flashlight and a tire gauge.

Keep a stocked first aid kit in the car's glove box for easy access.

Carry a roll of paper towels, a jug of water and some hand wipes. They come in handy and may prevent unplanned pit stops.

And of course, don't forget emergency phone numbers, including those that provide emergency roadside assistance, such as Allstate Motor Club.

Call Rawhide Travel and Tours and start planning that special vacation or event today. 602-843-5100 or visit our website rawhidetravel.com

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Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100
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