8 Holiday Road Trip Tips
The holiday season is all about making memories, and for many of us, that means hitting the road to visit family, explore new places, or escape for a little winter adventure. While it’s one of the best times of year for travel, it’s also a season when the roads can be busier (and more unpredictable). Whether you’re heading across town or across the country, these simple tips will help keep your holiday road trip safe, smooth, and a little less stressful.
1) Plan Your Route
Sure, planning your route is a no-brainer, but it’s just as important to check weather updates and road conditions before you go. Apps like Google Maps or Waze can be super helpful for live traffic updates.
2) Give Your Car a Little TLC
Nobody wants to deal with car trouble when you’ve got places to be and people to see. Quick vehicle checks before you leave can save you a major headache later. Here’s a short checklist:
- Top off fluids like oil and windshield washer fluid.
- Check tire pressure and tread (because nobody likes a flat in the middle of nowhere).
- Test your brakes, lights, and wipers—especially if you’re expecting winter weather.
Think of it as giving your car a mini tune-up before the big trip!
3) Pack a First Aid Kit—You’ll Be Glad You Did
Even if you’re the safest driver, it’s good to be prepared for minor mishaps. A well-stocked first aid kit is a travel essential that’s easy to overlook. Here’s what to include:
- Various sizes of bandages (because paper cuts are real).
- Antiseptic wipes and ointment for quick clean-ups.
- Pain relievers for those unexpected headaches.
- Tweezers, scissors, and safety pins (the little things you don’t think of until you need them).
Having a first aid kit isn’t just about being prepared; it’s about peace of mind so you can focus on enjoying your trip. If you misplaced or forgot to bring one, don’t worry because TA has you covered with the Castrol first aid kit.
4) Prepare for Winter Surprises
Traveling in the snow can be magical, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. If you’re headed somewhere cold, here are a few must-haves for your car:
- Ice scraper and snow brush (because seeing out of your windshield is kind of important).
- Extra windshield washer fluid for slushy roads.
- A portable shovel
- A small bag of kitty litter or sand for extra traction if you get stuck.
- Warm blankets and gloves just in case you need to wait for help.
Even if you never need these things, you’ll be glad you have them on hand.
5) Don’t Drive Tired—It’s Not Worth the Risk
It’s easy to push through when you’re eager to get to your destination, but drowsy driving is a real danger. Here’s how to stay alert:
- Get a good night’s sleep before you head out.
- Take a break every couple of hours to stretch and move around.
- Switch drivers if you’re traveling with someone else.
- Keep the music or a podcast going—anything to keep your mind active and alert.
If you start feeling sleepy, don’t risk it. Pull over and take a quick nap. It’s better to arrive a little late than not at all.
6) Keep Your Phone Charged and Ready
While you should always keep your eyes on the road, having a fully charged phone is important in case of an emergency. Bring a car charger or a portable power bank and save essential numbers like roadside assistance and emergency contacts in your phone. It’s a small step that can make a big difference if something unexpected happens.
7) Pack Snacks and Water (Trust Us)
You might not think snacks are a big deal, but they can be a lifesaver on a long drive—especially if you get stuck in traffic or can’t find a place to stop. Pack a mix of healthy options and treats, and don’t forget plenty of water. However, if you’re like us, and eat up all the snacks in the first 15 minutes of the trip, then TA has you more than covered in that department. Staying hydrated helps keep you alert and focused.
8) Stay Calm if Something Goes Wrong
Car trouble or unexpected delays can be stressful, but the key is to stay calm. Pull off the road safely, turn on your hazard lights, and call for help if you need it. Remember, it’s okay to take a moment to regroup. The holidays are all about being with the people you care about, not stressing over setbacks.
The Bottom Line: Enjoy the Ride!
Holiday travel is all about the journey as much as the destination. With a little preparation and a good attitude, you can make the most of your road trip and focus on the things that really matter—like belting out holiday songs and enjoying the sights along the way.
Safe travels, happy holidays, and may your road trip be filled with laughter, good snacks, and zero traffic jams!
About the author
TravelCenters of America
A Blog By TA & Petro Stopping Centers