Long Distance Holiday Driving: 7 Tips for Getting There Safely
Hard to believe but we are in the thick of another holiday season! That means packing up to head to grandma's house. But that's not the hardest part.
For long distance driving, the hardest part is the road itself. Highway hypnosis can be quite common if you haven't prepped in advance. In fact, more than 60% of drivers say they have gotten behind the wheel while drowsy! That's a considerable risk to take for you and your family.
Before the trip, you'll make sure your vehicle is in good running order and fueled with gas. Why not get prepare yourself with these 7 easy-to-do and valuable long distance driving tips?
Plan Ahead
Get a good night's sleep. Relying on coffee to get you to your destination is risky and unwise. If you're leaving early in the morning, make sure you go to bed earlier than usual to get enough sleep. Plan your route and know where you stop along the way to refuel, eat, and rest a bit.
Fuel Your Body
Bring some healthy foods that are packed with vitamins and snack on them along the way. To maintain alertness, pack some almonds and carrots. Skip fast food and give your body real fuel to help you arrive at your destination safely.
Stay Hydrated
For maximum energy and alertness, keep hydrated. Of course, you may need to make more pitstops, but then again, that breaks up the driving and also keeps you more alert.
Plan Your Stops
This one is crucial! Plan times for you to get out of the car and stretch your legs, preferably every 2 hours. You can time it so that you view interesting places or stop to get a good meal.
Allow Ample Drive Time
Holidays can mean a lot of rushing around. Just don't make your trip a rush job! Allow plenty of time for driving, refueling and rest stops. The drive will be a lot more pleasurable that way.
Share Drive Time
If you can, share the drive time with someone else. You will be far less likely to get tired when you do to take the wheel. It's highly recommended that you don't drive more than 10 hours in one day! It's just too hard on you physically and mentally.
Chew Gum, Sniff, and Listen to Music
Chewing gum increases circulation and alertness. Keep a pack handy! Keep some peppermint on hand, too, and sniff it when you need a boost. It's a pleasant, all-natural pick-me-up that reduces fatigue and increases alertness.
Turn on the radio. Or, bring along music that will get your blood pumping and help to keep you alert.
At Joe Bowman Chevy, we encourage you to take these important precautions when driving. And, make sure you get your vehicle serviced before you hit the road. Both of these tips are lifesavers!
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