Rental Car North Shore – When it comes to holiday travel, airports and flying get a lot of the attention. But the majority of people who travel during the holidays pack up the car and drive to their destinations.

Before starting the journey, drivers should prepare for safe driving.

Here are some tips to help you hit the road:

Know how you’re going to get to your destination and have an alternative route in mind. Be prepared for busy roads. Check your smartphone app for heavy traffic ahead. If possible, leave really early in the morning or really late in the evening when traffic is generally lighter.

Know what kind of conditions you might be driving through, not just the weather at your home and your destination. You may be going through mountain passes between your starting and stopping points.

Take a few minutes to check current weather conditions and forecasts.

Increase your regular following distance. Rather than three to four seconds, make it eight to 10. Avoid skids by applying the gas slowly to accelerate. Above all, be patient and don’t let yourself get distracted.

The holidays are prime time for thieves, and a vehicle full of items in plain view will attract them. Don’t make yourself a tempting target; keep your valuables and wrapped Christmas presents in the trunk or a covered storage area.

Use books, games, DVDs – whatever will keep the kids comfortable and stop them from distracting the driver. Remember, they will need snacks and will need to make stops, so be prepared to spend more time on the road if you’re traveling with children.

And do remember to buckle children in the vehicle using safety seats, booster seats or seat belts depending on their height, weight and age.

Adults need to stop, too. Breaking up the drive periodically will keep you more alert while you’re on the road, which will help you arrive for Christmas dinner in one piece.