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Preparation is the key to a safe and fun trip

Whether you' re traveling on a work-related trip or driving to a relative's home for the holidays, or heading to your favourite resort for that well-earned break, preparation is the key to a safe and fun trip. You can beat stress and save time and money as well, if you take the time to plan ahead.

Before you leave:

• Go through your Final Check Lists before leaving.
• Shop for supplies. A trip to the Bank would not hurt.
• Your vehicle and caravan should be fully serviced.
• Prepare the house: Water plants, Check locks on all doors, window and gates. Check alarm system and notify alarm company you will be gone. Stop paper delivery or arrange family to come by and get it and your mail. Turn off all unneeded appliances. You may even want to set lights up on timers. Take out any garbage, if you do not you may be sorry you did not when you get back.
• Let friends and/or family (only trusted ones) know where you will be. Give them phone numbers of the resort/s you will be staying at as well as your cell number.
• Check to see that your bills are up to date.
• Take any animals to a shelter, friends or with you.  
• Check what route you will take. Make sure you have your maps and a route plan.

The following are tips on planning ahead when you have to hit the road.

1) Check the weather. As simple as this tip seems, many people travel in poor traveling conditions because they forgot to watch the weather report for their travel route. Not only will a complete weather check help you pack the right clothes, it can help you plan an alternate route, or in cases of extreme weather, a different time to travel.

2) Allow plenty of time to drive and reach your destination. You can alleviate unnecessary stress by planning for activities such as meals, sightseeing and bathroom stops. The more people you are traveling with, the longer it will take to complete scheduled activities.

3) Don't stop exercising just because you're on the road. In fact, taking a walk, going for a run or doing any physical activity will greatly reduce the stress of a road trip. It is advisable to stop, stretch and have a five minute break every hour-and a half or so.

4) When traveling with pets, plan accordingly. Find a veterinarian in the area you are traveling to, and on the way to your destination. You'll be glad you did if your pet becomes ill or gets injured.

5) Second only to car trouble, the last thing anyone wants when traveling on the road is a speeding fine. So slow down, especially in harsh weather conditions. Check your speedometer before you leave to be sure that it is correct. Inspect taillights, headlights or other items that might result in a ticket.

6) Breakdowns, especially when traveling far away from home, are stressful and even frightening situations. Most people don't think to prepare for events like this, but by taking a few steps in advance can save you time, emergency service costs and a headache.

7) Planning road trips, at times, can be stressful as well as exciting, but planning ahead improves your ability to deal successfully with emergencies and problems. Take the time to prepare for breakdowns, delays and small mishaps and your trip will be smooth sailing, instead of a bumpy road ahead.