How to Make Your Holiday Travel Safer

It is hard to believe, but the holidays are quickly approaching. This means that many people will be increasing the time they spend traveling. Both the airways and the roadways will begin to see more traffic and be busier over the next several months. During this season, then, you should have as a top priority to be as safe as possible.

Holiday travel can be trying at time, because many frustrating things can happen. From traffic delays to traveling through dangerous areas, there are many reasons why you should do everything possible to reduce your stress and stay safe during your travel this season.

One of the most important things to do is to protect your home while you are away. Installing a home security system is the best way to do this. Nine out of ten convicted felons report that they would not break into a house if they knew it had an alarm system installed. Another important thing to do is to avoid announcing your travel plans on public Internet sites like Facebook and Twitter. Otherwise, you may be telling criminals when you are going to be away from your home!

Know your route. Be sure you are familiar with your driving directions and feel comfortable about your route. To avoid encountering unexpected road closures or detours, contact the Federal Highway Administration. There you will find useful information about road status and traffic.

Give your car a check-up. There's nothing like that sinking feeling when something goes wrong with your car many miles from home. Increase the odds that your trip will be problem-free by checking your oil level, tire pressure, windshield wiper fluid and radiator water. Pack an emergency kit for snow emergencies.

You will also want to pack a kit for snow emergencies. Winter often brings with it hazardous driving conditions, so it is important to anticipate the possible emergencies. By keeping a few things in your car, you can be prepared for nearly any emergency that comes up. For example, be sure that you travel with extra food and water, blankets, batteries and flashlights, a charged cell phone and kitty litter (to give your tires traction on ice).