“We are seeing a lot of people staying in our own backyard -- either for a long weekend or a two-week trip across the country,” says Erin Duffy, spokesperson for AAA. “Requests for our TripTiks are up 5 percent over last year nationally,” she adds.
Duffy notes that there are discounts throughout the travel industry right now, including price breaks on hotels and attractions, which may be driving some of the increase in road travel.
“It’s a good time for car trips right now,” agrees Jodi Moulzolf of Lund International, an automotive accessories company. “And being prepared will make your trip that much more enjoyable.”
For families planning to take to the road this summer, the travel experts at AAA and Lund International offer the following suggestions for a successful trip:
* “Before you leave, let the kids help with the planning,” says Duffy. Because kids are so computer savvy now, it’s easy for them to go online and find attractions and other points of interest they want to see. They will be more involved and excited about the trip, and the parents won’t have to do all the planning.
* Bring along things for the kids so they can enjoy their time in the car. Maybe a favorite pillow or blanket, deck of cards, family books-on-tape, portable snacks and drinks, and a secret goodie bag for when they are bored with everything else.
* Make sure your car is ready for extended driving. “Bugs splashing on your windshield can really affect your visibility,” says Moulzolf. “We suggest outfitting your vehicle with a Bugflector to protect it, not just from bugs but from expensive nicks and scratches too.” The Bugflector helps prevent damage to your hood, windshield and fenders and can be installed in about 10 minutes. It looks good too -- there are seven customized styles to complement most colors and finishes.
Another item that may be useful for families on trips is a Cargo Liner. This tough, non-slip, rubberized liner protects the cargo area of your vehicle. It has raised sides that allow it to trap up to one gallon of liquid, so clean up is easy, no matter what happens to spill.
* Beware of the dangers of heat. “Never leave children or animals in the car, even for a few minutes -- the inside of a vehicle can heat up so quickly,” says Duffy. “Even the metal parts of a seat belt can get really hot,” she adds. Although some people leave their windows cracked in an attempt to keep their parked cars cooler, Duffy doesn’t recommend it. “Leaving windows of a car partially open makes it hot for thieves,” she warns.
Moulzolf suggests one solution to the problem: a Ventvisor. This device easily snaps into a car’s window channel creating a small “visor” over the top of the window. This way you can safely leave windows slightly open in a parked car. It also keeps out rain and allows fresh air in while you are driving.
* Make sure you allow enough time for fun. Duffy suggests stopping early in the afternoon so that the family has time to explore the area or take a walk or a swim. It’s a vacation after all.
For more information about the above products contact Auto Ventshade Company, a division of Lund International at www.lundinternational.com. Auto Ventshade is offering free Motorola Talkabout two-way pagers while supplies last. Call (888) 781-7243 beginning June 1, 2003. For more information on Lund International automotive accessories, go to www.lundinternational.com or call (800) 377-5863.
Courtesy of ARA Content
