AAA Offers 10 Tips for a Hassle-Free Winter Getaway
11 December 1997
AAA Offers 10 Tips for a Hassle-Free Winter GetawaySAN FRANCISCO, Dec. 11 -- If a long car trip this winter to visit Grandma sounds overwhelming, think again. By following AAA's ten tips for auto travel, your winter getaway can become a vacation to remember. *Make your hotel reservations well in-advance. AAA travel agents can help you find the best deal for your budget and itinerary. * Don't leave home without your hotel confirmation number. You may be asked to present it when checking-in. This proof of reservation will come in handy if the property is over-booked. * Plan your route ahead of time. AAA members can visit their local AAA office to receive a Triptik routing, which includes customized directions, related maps and valuable tourism information. * Contact your local police or sheriff's office to inquire about a house watch. Many agencies provide a perimeter check of your home -- such as doors, windows and fences while you are away. Remember to put a temporary hold on your mail and newspaper delivery, or ask a neighbor to pick them up. * Make sure you are well-rested before you leave. Stop every few hours to re-energize -- especially if you are traveling with kids. * Dress in comfortable, loose clothing. Consider dressing in layers to accommodate changes in temperature. * Verify that all passengers are buckled up. Children 12 and under should travel in the back seat and he properly secured in a child safety seat or with lap and shoulder belts. * Pack an emergency kit in your car. The kit should include jumper cables, a flashlight with fresh batteries, blankets, flares or a reflective triangle, an ice scraper and a small shovel. * If you are traveling with your children, pack books or small toys to occupy them during the trip. Let them choose the radio station, or bring along a tape or CD player with headphones. * Travel with a cellular phone -- especially if you are traveling off the beaten track. The AAA affiliate for Northern California, Nevada, and Utah serves nearly 4 million members with an array of automotive, travel and insurance services. SOURCE American Automobile Association