TRAVEL TIPS Five Tips For Smoother RoadTrips (NAPSA)—The next time you're planning a road trip, consider these five tips for making it safe, fun and low-stress: Do Your Research Check out AAA’s Web site, www.aaa.com, or a bookstore’s travel section for unique road trip ideas. A range of new books offers detailed itineraries and maps outlining all types of scenic and historic drives, from a simu- lated Lewis and Clark expedition to a cheese-themed drive through Vermont. Lighten Your Load To save gas, AAA advises, empty your trunk of excess baggage you don’t need. A heavier vehicle burns more gas. For other gas-saving tips, check out www.aaa.com. Prepare for Emergencies In addition to a cell phone, don’t forget to bring first-aid kit, blanket, flashlight, bottled water and snacks. For vacations, don’t leave home without travel insurance. Companies such as TravelGuardoffer single trip coverage to protect you in the event of a medical emergency, trip interruption or cancellation. Save Time and Money:Join a Membership Program For example, Hertz #1 Club is free to join and gets you on your way faster by offering expressser- vice at most major airport loca- tions and the option to reserve a specific brand or model. Other An in-car satellite navigation system can help keep you on the road to fun and safety on your next driving vacation. perks include free rental days and discounts for child seats and additional drivers. Upgrade Your Experience by Upgrading Your Car For longer trips, prevent wear and tear on your own car by renting one. Hertz, for one, lets you make the vehicle the best part of the vacation by offering luxury and performance vehicles such as the Jaguar, Hummer, Ford Mustang and Mazda Miata. See www.hertz.com. Also keep in mind long drives are more fun— especially for the kids—when you rent a car equipped with such family-friendly options as DVD players and SIRIUS Satellite Radio. Also look for safety options like Hertz NeverLost in-car satellite navigation system and child/infantseats.
