Experts are predicting that the Thanksgiving of 2019 will be one of the busiest travel days on record. Several families and individuals will be taking to the road to enjoy the holiday with friends and relatives. Any car related problem or emergency can seriously derail holiday travel plans. Having a plan before hitting the road is imperative, especially if you are traveling with young children. Here are 5 Thanksgiving Car Travel tips to make your holiday road trip more bearable.

1.Plan ahead! The day before Thanksgiving is always the busiest so try to schedule your travel the day before. If you can’ t avoid traveling the day before Thanksgiving, research where the busiest routes are and try to avoid traveling at rush hour. Though it may take you a bit longer, taking the scenic route may give you a peaceful mind and give you a chance to avoid sitting in bumper to bumper traffic four hours.

2.Expect the unexpected. Car break downs and inclement weather are just a couple of problems that can occur. Check the weather before hitting the road and bring some weather-related emergency supplies in case. The supplies should include an ice scraper, shovel, jumper cables, blankets, flashlights, first aid kit, food, water, and windshield deicer. While traveling, you should always abide by the statement, it is better to over prepared than under prepared.

3.Make sure you get a decent sleep the night before you leave. Drowsy drivers are dangerous so protect your family, yourself, and others by making sure you get good shut eye the night before. One study has said that driving drowsy can affect the brain as much as driving drunk does!

4.Keep the kids entertained. Cranky and crying kids can easily be a distraction to the driver of the vehicle. Before the trip, help the kids get a fun road trip kit together. Stock it with lots of crayons, a coloring book, a fully charged tablet to watch movies on, snacks, books and small board games.

5.Check your car over before hitting the road. This is a lot easier than having to deal with the dilemma of a break down. Check your tire pressure to make sure you have enough air and have your battery tested at your local auto repair shop or parts store. Make sure all your fluids are topped off and that all your lights are in good working order.

Have a happy and safe Thanksgiving from everyone at Autobody Specialties!