Family Vehicle Vacations Can Be A Great Deal (NAPSA)—You won’t have to go far to figure out the best vacation value. Experts agree that even with the rising cost of gas, the traditional family summer vacation by car costs less, is more convenient andis not as stressful as flying. According to the Car Care Council, the cost for a family of four traveling by car is about the same as one person traveling by air. Based on a family of four traveling 1,000 miles round-trip, the council compared thecost of flying vs. driving. Byair: A family of four traveling by air will spend approximately $1,324 for tickets, based on recent statis- tics from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Add to that transportation to and from the airport and/or parking. By car: If gasoline prices were as high as $5 a gallon, the cost for a family of four traveling by SUV would be $314. That estimate not only includes the cost of gasoline but also tire wear and maintenance, based on the American Automobile Association’s vehicle operating costs. Other advantages include: Leave when you want from where you want No airport parking No waiting in long ticket counter andsecurity lines * No weather delays Pack whatever and as much as you want Beforehitting the road for your next vacation, you may want fo set aside a few minutes to determineif your car is ready for long-distance travel. A 10-minute checkup should do it: Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering and brake and transmission, as well as windshield washersolvent and antifreezecoolant. Check the hosesand belts, which can becomecracked,brittle, frayed, loose orshowsigns of excessive wear. Checkthe tires, including fire pressure and tread. Uneven wearindicates a needfor wheel alignment. @ Stop andstretch anytime More and better meal options * No rental car or taxi expenses More legroom and overall comfort * No strangers sitting next to you Enjoy theride. Before taking a long roadtrip, be sure to give your car a quick checkup. If any repairs need to be made, it would be better to make them at homeat a repair shop you know andtrust. The Car Care Council is the source of information for the “Be Car Care Aware” consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair for consumers. For a copy of the council’s “Car Care Guide” or for more information, visit www.carcare.org.
