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Tips for road tripping with dogs, from people who live in a van year-round

Posted on May 28, 2022 | by getsetntravel | Leave a Comment

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Memorial Day weekend is upon us and if you’re heading out on a road trip, you don’t have to leave Fido behind.

It may seem like an added challenge to have a dog with you in the car, but according to Will and Kristin Watson, it’s all worth it.

The Watsons, along with their 3-year-old daughter Roam and their 10-year-old pit bull Rush, have been traveling in a renovated bus since April 2019.

“I would not want to do this without Rush,” Kristin told Fox News Digital. “I know some people don’t bring their dogs along, because they don’t think that their dog would be able to handle it, but I would say just try and see before you just don’t give your dog the opportunity.”

“Most dogs really just want to be with their owners in any way that they can, so they adapt,” Kristin added. “And they’re just the best companions to have on these kinds of trips.”

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When the family moved onto the bus three years ago, Kristin said Rush took a little time to adjust to the lifestyle change, though he was a little anxious early on.

Will and Kristin Watson have been traveling in their renovated bus with their 3-year-old daughter Roam and their 10-year-old pit bull Rush since April 2019.
(Will and Kristin Watson)

“I think he transitioned really well,” Kristin said. “One thing that he did a lot of at the beginning is… while we were driving, he would run up to the front of the bus and then run to the back and then run to the front and run to back.”

Will explained: “He was having a hard time protecting us when we’re driving on the road.”

Now, the Watsons give Rush some CBD for dogs before they hit the road.

“That has really, really helped mellow him out and be able to chill while we’re driving,” Kristin said. “It also helps great with his hips, because he’s getting older. So hopping in and out of the bus, he can do it so much better since we started giving him that.”

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Though the Watsons don’t crate Rush on the bus, he does have two spots where he spends most of his time.

Giving your dog a spot in the car – or bus – helps make your pet feel calmer and at home while on the road, according to Outside magazine.

When the Watsons first moved onto the bus, Kristin said Rush handled the transition pretty well.
(Will and Kristin Watson)

In the Watsons’ bus, Rush spends his time either in the front with Will while he drives, or in the back on the bed.

“He loves to just stick his head out the window of the back and just smell the new smells,” Will said.

The Watsons also leave all the essentials out for Rush, so he has access to them while they’re on the road.

“He free-range eats and everything, so he has food and water available and his toys available any time he wants them,” Kristin said.

The Watsons also make sure to walk Rush every time they stop – which they do every few hours to stretch their legs and take bathroom breaks.

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Two of the greatest benefits of having Rush with the Watsons on the road are security and companionship.

“If Will has to leave me and Roam behind to go on a work trip, I feel super safe because I have my dog,” Kristin said. “He’s one of those dogs that, he’s only going to bark if there’s someone sniffing around the bus or something. So he’s an alarm system.”

Though Rush was a little anxious about being on the bus at first, the Watsons started giving him CBD for dogs, which has calmed him down and helped with his joint pain as he’s gotten older.
(Will and Kristin Watson)

“He’s very friendly, but he sounds like he will bite your head off if you come around the bus,” Kristin added.

Plus, Rush loves to go on adventures.

“He loves that we go to different places all the time because he gets to smell new smells and pee on different things,” Will said.

“If we want to get out and just walk a trail or go do something, obviously Rush is always going to come and he just loves it,” he added.

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One of the biggest challenges of having Rush along for family getaways is that some areas aren’t pet-friendly, Kristin said.

“If you’re going to national parks, most of the trails in national parks aren’t dog friendly,” Kristin explained. “So you really have to be mindful of the weather, because if you’re going to be leaving your dog or any animal behind in the summertime, you need to do things really early in the morning or in the evenings when it will be cooler.”

The Watsons said that having Rush with them gives them an extra layer of security, plus Rush likes to adventure as much as they do.
(Will and Kristin Watson)

The Watsons have a pet monitor, which measures the temperature and humidity levels in their bus and sends them alerts to their phones in case their AC shuts off.

They also have a security system for the bus, so they can watch and talk to Rush, while they’re away.

An added challenge for the Watsons is that Rush is a pit bull, so he’s not allowed at some campgrounds.

“They consider him an aggressive breed, unfortunately,” Will said.

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The Watsons said they lean on a website called BringFido, which helps them find dog-friendly restaurants, activities and accommodations while they travel.

Kristin added that public lands are also some of the best places to take your dog.

“I would not want to do this without Rush,” Kristin told Fox News Digital about traveling and living in a bus.
(Will and Kristin Watson)

“They’re the places with the least amount of rules,” she said. “You’ll find beautiful wide-open spaces there for your dog to run around and stuff. So we always try to find public land places.”

Despite the few challenges, the Watsons have no regrets about bringing Rush on their travels.

“Bring the dog,” Kristin said. “Never leave the dog behind.”

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Tips for a road trip with pets | Bakersfield Life

Posted on May 28, 2022 | by getsetntravel | Leave a Comment

As pet ownership and remote work reach an all-time high, many people are choosing to road-trip with their pets as their preferred form of travel this year. Recently, Hilton even announced that their Extended Stays properties will be 100 percent pet friendly this year. With more people making pet-friendly road trips than ever before, here are six tips to make it a success:

1. Bring a collapsible water bowl and pet shoes with you 24/7 so you don’t have to carry around water bottles or injure your pet’s paws if the concrete is too hot. It is a well-known fact that most shops and restaurants will offer water to their customer’s pets.

2. Be strategic in selecting rest stops with pet-friendly facilities. Some popular rest stops even have dog parks and doggie bags, like The Oasis on Interstate 5 at Tejon Ranch. You can look up rest stops on USARestStops.com or on the Department of Transportation website to plan ahead. As a general rule of thumb, plan to make a potty/hydration stop every two to four hours, depending on your dog’s age and activity level.

3. Consider stopping at outlets along the highway, as you can both shop and give your pet exercise simultaneously. Most outlets like the Outlets at Tejon and Camarillo Outlets are pet-friendly and close to gas stations, making it a win-win for road trips.

4. There is a high chance of motion sickness for pups that have not traveled before. Be sure to purchase Dramamine to have on hand to allow your furry friend to travel comfortably and with ease.

5. Purchase a dog seat belt and seat cover. According to law enforcement officials, seat belt harnesses, car seats or other forms of pet restraints make travel safer for everyone. Having an uncontrolled pet can be a hazard.

6. Consider purchasing a High Road Travel Bag, which can be purchased on Amazon, to keep all your dog essentials in your car. These travel bags carry everything — your collapsible water bowl, toys, treats and event doggie waste bags. Having a place to keep everything in one spot helps with organization.

Becca Bland is the director of marketing at the Outlets at Tejon. She received her bachelor’s degree in business from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising and comes with a variety of experience in the fashion world, including Elle PR and designer brands, such as Citizens of Humanity and Ted Baker.

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On the road again: summer travel resumes in big way | Local News

Posted on May 28, 2022 | by getsetntravel | Leave a Comment

The unofficial start of summer is off to a roaring start this Memorial Day weekend, despite rising travel costs and COVID-19 concerns.

“We’re going to have 1.2 million more people traveling,” said Jim Garrity, director of public affairs for AAA. “It’s almost 7% more than last year. Consumers are ready to travel again, especially those who didn’t make a trip last year, maybe haven’t seen certain members of their family or friends for a couple of years. They’re thinking to themselves, ‘This is the year I’m going to get back out there.’”

Of course, those who want to get away are dealing with a few factors that may cause some hesitation, such as the price of airfare and gasoline.

According to figures released by AAA, the lowest average airfare is 6% more than last year and mid-range hotel rates have increased by about 42%.

And gasoline prices have eclipsed 2021’s numbers in a big way.

According to AAA, the average price of gasoline in Western Pennsylvania the week of May 22 was $4.70 per gallon. The average price during the week of May 24, 2021, was more than $1.50 less – $3.178 per gallon.

This week’s average price of unleaded self-serve gasoline was $4.699 in Washington and $4.687 in Uniontown.

“Airfare and gas are out of sight right now,” said Sandy Davis, owner of Davis Travel Agency in Monongahela. “I was looking for someone for airfare to Florida and it was $800. That’s crazy. It’s just ridiculous.”

Still, she said, more people are booking trips this year than the last two years. COVID fears seem to be less.

“I just came back from Europe and you would never know it,” Davis said. “I was in five countries in 12 days, and really you would never know it.”

Carl Brandtonies, owner of Worldview Travel in Washington, also said more people are traveling but said the rising gas prices may curtail that a bit.

“We’re seeing more people going out, but the gas is going to start affecting it and airfares are starting to grow,” he said. “They’re looking to book trips, but the airfares are starting to increase pretty good right now.’

Garrity said AAA conducted a survey in February as gas prices began to climb.

“What we found is that around the $4 mark is when consumers would start making changes in their daily habits and behaviors so they could still prioritize things like travel, summer road trips, vacations, going to see family and friends, maybe now more than ever for consumers who haven’t been able to do so over the last few years,” he said. “Despite those higher gas prices, more people are traveling.”

Something that did occur during COVID was the rediscovery of the outdoors. Local attractions such as Mingo Creek County Park should be quite popular throughout the summer.

“If the weekend turns out to be a beautiful weekend with the weather, I have no doubt that Mingo is going to be packed with people,” said Lisa Cessna, Washington County planning director.

Cessna said permit applications for Cross Creek Park Lake have increased, especially for motorized boats, paddle boats and kayaks. Plus, shelter rentals are going strong.

“It used to be just the fisherman’s lake, but now we have a lot of people doing some recreational activities that we had never seen before,” she said. “You’d be hard-pressed to find a shelter on the weekend throughout the summer. There are still some available during the week. We’re pretty much booked solid with all of our shelters on the weekends throughout the summer.”

Bret Moore, Greene County’s recreation director, said there was solid participation in outdoor events, as well as good crowds at the Greene River Trail during the pandemic. Now, it’s picking up even more.

“Most of our events are very well-attended,” he said. “The drag races are scheduled for the airport (Sunday), and we’re assuming there’s going to be a very large turnout.

Moore also said pavilion rentals and pool parties are booked throughout the better part of the summer.

It does seem as if people want to be out and about again.

“Our travel advisers have been very, very busy, and a lot of the time it’s just people calling in and asking what’s available,” Garrity said. “The wanderlust is starting to take hold and the urge to go out and go anywhere – a lot of people are starting to feel that again. It’s exciting to see.”

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As summer travel season arrives, ODOT offers some tips, reminders, advice before hitting the road

Posted on May 27, 2022 | by getsetntravel | Leave a Comment

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — Summer travel season is coming fast, and as you make your plans, there are a few things to know before you drive, ride, walk or roll along state highways, the Oregon Department of Transportation said Thursday.

Here’s their list:

Check your route on TripCheck.com. We’ve added more cameras showing road conditions, more real travel times, look for cones on our construction projects, and striped lines to see local partners road and construction information.

Plan ahead. Major events like the World Athletics Championships Oregon22 in Eugene, July 15-24, may cause delays on Interstate 5. Watch for message signs warning of congestion. Slow down, and be aware of fellow travelers who may not be familiar with our state highways.

Plan a car-free trip. Consider taking the POINT bus or Amtrak to the games in Eugene, and walking or biking around town. Or avoid the crowds and plan a walking or biking tour. Look for resources under “Plan your Trip.”

Driving electric? Look forward to upgraded EV charging stations along major roads like I-5, I-84, and U.S. 101. Some chargers on these roads are part of the West Coast Electric Highway network and now have upgraded plug types that can connect to more EV models. You can spot the new chargers by their orange-colored stickers.

Oregon has about 2,100 public EV charging stations throughout the state. We’re about to get a lot more along major roads and in Oregon’s communities over the next few years, courtesy of ODOT’s pledge of $100 million for EV charging infrastructure.

Construction is everywhere. Road and bridge construction occur year around in Oregon, but paving needs good weather and so large projects happens in the summer. Check out our Project Tracker and see what is planned. Check TripCheck for any delays from projects underway. Watch for orange, slow down around work zones and help everyone get home safely.

Take extra caution around chip seals. This lower cost paving method extends the life of the road, but slow down as there can be loose rock around that may fly and break windows or chip paint.

To make travel easier for Oregonians and the thousands of visitors expected for the World Athletic Championships, some construction and maintenance projects will be on hold for three weeks in July.

Rules of the Road. Know what to expect on Oregon roads. The Move Over Law says you must move to another lane if an emergency vehicle is on the side of the road with emergency lights flashing. If you can’t change lanes, slow down. ODOT Incident Responders are on the road to respond to incidents with other first responder partners. Have you been driving awhile? Brush up on the rules in 2022-2023 Oregon Driver Manual.

Waterfall Corridor improved access. The much-loved Waterfall Corridor of the Historic Columbia River Highway can be visited by bike, bus, or tour. If you drive in your personal vehicle, you’ll need a timed use permit from May 24 until Sept. 5 between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Permits are available online for a $2 transaction fee. A limited number of same-day permits (with no fee) are available in person at several area locations. More information on transportation options and permits.

Wildfires. Debris cleanup from 2020’s devastating wildfires is done, but some of road repairs continue this summer. Expect delays on OR 224, OR 22, OR 126, and OR 138 as crews continue to remove rocks and debris over the highway, fix fire-damaged roads, remove hazardous trees and re-seed with native plants, and repave. OR 224 is open but most recreation areas remain closed and there are multiple work zones.

Last year in Oregon, cars were the number one source of wildfires during the summer. Do your part to prevent them. If you have to pull off the road, stay on hardened surfaces and avoid dry grass. Never, ever toss a lit cigarette or any burning materials from you vehicle.

If you end up in a smoky area, turn on your headlights so others can see you.

Be Prepared. Make sure your vehicle is in good working order before you head out. Check your coolant, hoses, and your tires. Have emergency supplies in your vehicle. Food, water, extra medications, a first aid kit, a paper road map, phone charger, jumper cables, a safety vest and a flashlight all may come in handy as you travel.

Know before you go and have a safe trip wherever you go and however you choose to get there.

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Gas-Saving Tips For Your Memorial Day Weekend Road Trip | Entertainment

Posted on May 27, 2022 | by getsetntravel | Leave a Comment

Gas-Saving Tips , For Your Memorial Day Weekend Road Trip. Despite high gas prices, the number of Americans planning a road trip this weekend has increased from last year. These six tips can help you save at the pump as you plan for your trip. 1, Beat the lines. Fueling up during the middle of the week is a smart way to keep from waiting in long gas lines. 2, Tune-up your car. In addition to keeping your engine running smoothly, keeping your windows up will cut down on drag. 3, Keep an eye on prices. There several apps that can lead you to cheaper gas prices in your area. 4, Cash, cash, cash. Paying with cash is often cheaper that paying by card due to service charges that are implemented on card transactions. 5, Stay close. The closer you stay to home, the fewer trips you’ll need to the pump. 6, Consider a loyalty program. There are several national chains that offer loyalty points towards gas, including supermarkets

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Top 10 Tips While Preparing For Your Summer Road Trip

Posted on May 26, 2022 | by getsetntravel | Leave a Comment

Being better prepared will help you enjoy your time on the road with fewer worries

It’s that time of the year again when most people have a vacation on their mind. Road trips appeal not only to driving enthusiasts, but also to those who want to make the most of a few days away from work. While you make all the necessary plans and reservations for your next summer road trip, here are top 10 tips to make sure your car and yourself are ready for the purpose:

Check the air conditioning

If your car was recently serviced and given a clean bill of health, this should not be an area of concern. If not, it’s best to make sure that your air conditioning system is working well and cooling the cabin sufficiently. The summer heat would make life difficult for all occupants if there are any unattended issues with the AC, especially when traveling with children and or pets.

Look after the lights

Make sure all the lights work as they should. The headlamps, all indicators, fog lamps, brake lights and the reversing lights should be functional. Also remember to check that the various settings of your headlamps such as high beam, flicker, and level adjustment, are in working order.

If you have spare time, make sure you give your headlamps a wash and a clean. Older lamps tend to have clouded lenses and therefore do not provide the desired luminosity.

Note:- Remember to switch off the lights when exiting the vehicle or you might find yourself stranded with a dead battery.

Oils and lubricants

Good car care means regular services and topping up all the necessary oils and fluids. This would not be a concern for a recently serviced car. In other circumstances, check all the gauges and telltale lights in the instrument cluster for any hints. If you hear any unusual noises while operating your vehicle, it is best to get it looked over by a qualified technician before setting off.

There are fluids you can check and fill yourself as well. The coolant tank is easy to check by lifting the bonnet and looking for the colorful liquid. Another common fluid that needs regular topping up is the washer fluid for your windscreen wiper system.

Also Read: Top New Cars In India

A quick check underneath

After checking if the car is topped with relevant fluids, it is good to drop down and check for any fluids that might be leaking from the vehicle. It also helps to check the underside of your car for any signs of wear or damage that could become a critical issue and have it fixed to avoid being stranded on your road trip.

Tyre tread and pressures (even the spare)

Just because your tyre is not flat does not mean it’s ready for a road trip. Make sure you check the tread levels for each of your tyres to make sure none of them are worn out. If any of your tyres are severely lacking in tread depth, you should get them changed as the grip level is key for your safety while turning and braking.

Second check-up for the tyres is the pressures. Ideally, get these checked and topped up at your nearest fuel pump which has a tyre pressure service. You can check the ideal pressure for the tyres of your particular car online to make sure what the target psi should be. Also remember to do a pressure check for the spare tyre. It’s no good to have a spare if it’s in the same condition as the punctured one.

Wipers

If your windscreen wipers make weird noises when used, or if they simply don’t do a great job of clearing water, you should get fresh wiper blades. In case you encounter rain, or simply use the washer liquid to clear away any muck, it is a huge relief to have effective (and quiet) wipers. In case there are any issues with your wipers, it is mandatory to have the issue resolved before heading out on a road trip.

Those were the tips to get your car mechanically ready for a summer road trip. The following points are helpful tips on things you should have IN your car:

First-aid kit

All modern cars come with a basic first-aid kit from the dealer. Make sure the items in the kit are usable should they be required. It also helps to prepare your own first aid kit with items such as antiseptic ointments, bandages, some form of disinfectant, medical tape, cotton and a small pair of scissors.

Basic tools

While it would be ideal that you don’t need these items, it helps to have them in your car when you’re leaving your known area and going for a long drive. Some basic tools you should pack in your car, maybe in the glovebox, are a small but powerful flashlight (put fresh batteries or recharge), tape, and some form of multifunction knife which houses tools such as a screwdriver and a short blade.

In-car entertainment (cables, download music/make a playlist, something for kids)

To avoid a last minute purchase, it’s best to prepare the in-car entertainment items before heading out on a road trip. This includes keeping USB cables for different types of devices in your group of travellers, preparing a playlist of songs for the drive so that there are fewer distractions (download them onto your phone if you can in case you lose network), and any adapters you might need. If you’re travelling with kids, make sure to pack some compact entertainment such as card-based games or trivia games, that would keep them engaged and not kick the back seat of the driver. Or just pack a tablet with a bunch of videos downloaded to it.

Also Read: Top Upcoming Cars In India

Navigation notes

Chances are you’ll be using some form of application on your smartphone to guide you through your road trip. While that is well and good, there are chances where you might find yourself out of network coverage and not be able to access the GPS route you were following. To avoid such a scenario, go through your planned route in detail ahead of time and make physical notes of the major highways you will be taking and any prominent towns you might pass. These notes will allow you to get easier assistance from locals whom you might ask for directions, or to be reassured that you’re on the correct route when you cross any road signs informing you of the next town or the name of the highway you’re on.

These are our top tips to help you prepare for a safe and enjoyable summer road trip. Do let us know in the comments if there are any other useful tips and tricks that you use while preparing to head out for a long drive.

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Top 10 Tips While Preparing For Your Summer Road TripTop 10 Tips While Preparing For Your Summer Road Trip

Posted on May 26, 2022 | by getsetntravel | Leave a Comment

Being better prepared will help you enjoy your time on the road with fewer worries

Check the air conditioning

Look after the lights

If you have spare time, make sure you give your headlamps a wash and a clean. Older lamps tend to have clouded lenses and therefore do not provide the desired luminosity.

Note:- Remember to switch off the lights when exiting the vehicle or you might find yourself stranded with a dead battery.

Oils and lubricants

Also Read: Top New Cars In India

A quick check underneath

Tyre tread and pressures (even the spare)

Wipers

Those were the tips to get your car mechanically ready for a summer road trip. The following points are helpful tips on things you should have IN your car:

First-aid kit

Basic tools

In-car entertainment (cables, download music/make a playlist, something for kids)

Also Read: Top Upcoming Cars In India

Navigation notes

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Road Trip: Summer Driving Checklist and Safety Tips

Posted on May 25, 2022 | by getsetntravel | Leave a Comment

If you take a road trip this summer, you will not be alone. It’s the best way to combat cabin fever, and driving these days ranks higher in popularity than flying.

According to AAA, an estimated 34.9 million people will hit America’s roads for the Memorial Day holiday weekend. That’s a 4.6% increase over 2021.

In another AAA study about summer travel in general, 97% of vacationers plan to drive, up from 87% in the pre-pandemic years. On the flip side, AAA said only 52% of the population feels ready to travel this year.

Therefore, if you choose to vacation, you can expect fewer people in some significant destinations than before the pandemic hit in 2020.

Still, before you pack your bags, some vehicle preparation is in order. Check out our tips for a safe and enjoyable road trip.

Road Trip Checklist for Your Vehicle

Before setting out, you’ll want to prepare the vehicle for the distance ahead. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends that drivers take these steps in the days leading up to a road trip:

1. Inspect and Maintain Your Vehicle

Routine maintenance is a must, and keeping up with your car’s maintenance schedule can help prevent costly breakdowns. Perform a basic safety check of your vehicle’s tire pressure, wiper blades, fluid levels, lights, and air conditioning. You shouldn’t defer regularly scheduled services such as tune-ups, oil changes, battery checks, and tire rotations.

If you find anything is amiss, check our vehicle maintenance pricing and service schedules page to see if your car is due and what it may cost. It’s worth running it by a dealership or auto repair shop when you’re unsure whether any service is overdue.

2. Make Child Safety Your Top Concern

All children under 13 years old should ride in the back seat. And be aware of the added risks that arise in warm weather. Heatstroke can occur when a child gets left unattended in a parked vehicle.

To understand more about child seat safety, take some time to review the importance of car seat safety.

3. Stock Your Vehicle With a Safety Kit

NHTSA recommends that drivers carry:

Cell phone, charger, and extra portable battery
First aid kit
Flashlight
Flares and a white flag
Jumper cables
Tire pressure gauge
Jack (and ground mat) for changing a tire
Work gloves and a change of clothes
Essential repair tools and some duct tape (for temporarily repairing a hose leak)
Water and paper towels for cleaning up
Nonperishable food, drinking water, and medicines
Extra windshield washer fluid
Navigation options (Phone or car navigation systems or printed maps)
Emergency blankets, towels, and coats

4. Be Prepared for Road Trip Contingency Plans

Plan your travel and route, and check road conditions, weather, and traffic to know what you can expect. But also be prepared for any contingency. Remember, a cell phone is the most critical emergency item since it allows you to call for help when and where you need it.

5. Check for Recalls

Use Kelley Blue Book’s VIN recall check tool to ensure your vehicle is ready to go. If you find a recall, get it fixed as soon as possible.

Millions of Americans are driving cars that may have safety recalls. Dealerships will always perform recall repairs for free. But their service bays can get swamped ahead of a heavy travel season, so check as early as possible to see if your car needs any free repairs.

6. Know Your Car

You’re probably set on this checklist item if you’re driving your own car. If renting a vehicle, pick it up a few hours before the road trip to familiarize yourself with it. Get familiar with the different types of driver assists and safety features you can use.

On-the-Road Trip Safety Tips

Once you’re on the road, car safety is about paying attention to your surroundings and keeping yourself alert. To that end, don’t neglect these necessary safety precautions:

Drive at Non-Peak Times

Late afternoon and early evening can be the worst times on the road. Avoid peak traffic times for a long weekend by leaving early Friday or Saturday morning to be well on your way when the travel rush kicks in. For the trip home, leave early Monday, or give yourself an extra day and travel on Tuesday. That way, everyone else is out of the way.

Limit Nighttime Driving

A National Sleep Foundation poll says 60% of adults drive cars when tired. It also found that 37%, or 103 million people, fell asleep at the wheel. Of those, 4% of adults caused a crash by falling asleep while driving.

If you feel fatigue coming on, stop and rest or switch drivers before putting yourself or other passengers at risk. But really, limit driving at night when it’s harder to see.

Let a Passenger Handle Traffic Apps and Entertainment

We’re big fans of Waze and Google Maps. These navigation tools can route any driver around traffic, provide updates on travel time, and even alert you by warning of road hazards. But, for safety’s sake, remember to keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. Instead of multi-tasking, put a passenger in charge of the navigation and the music or podcast selection.

Take Frequent Breaks

Occasionally getting out of the car is good for everyone, especially the driver. The best way to avoid feeling tired behind the wheel is to give yourself a regular change of scenery. And there’s no better way to do that than pulling over every few hours and stretching your legs.

Share the Driving

If your road trip involves multiple qualified drivers, let everyone take a turn handling the stress of driving and relaxing in the passenger’s seat. It’s good for everyone’s nerves and sets the right tone for the weekend.

Share the Road

Remember that traffic could be heavier than you’d expect, especially near attractions or vacation destinations. Good weather attracts many roadway users, including motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. While they share the same rights, privileges, and responsibilities as every motorist, they are more vulnerable. Their most significant disadvantage is that they do not have the protection that a car or truck provides. Leave more distance between you and a motorcycle — about 3 or 4 seconds worth.

Motorcycles are much lighter than other vehicles and can stop at shorter distances. Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic. This courtesy allows other road users to anticipate your movement and find a safe lane position.

Buckle Up

Do we need to say this? According to the American Medical Association Journal, accidents remain one of the top leading causes of death for Americans. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when the total number of miles Americans drove plummeted, traffic deaths increased. Give yourself and your loved ones a fighting chance and obey this critical safety law.

RELATED ARTICLE: Best Family Cars for Car Seats

Pack Some Masks

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, whether everyone in your car is vaccinated or not, you may need masks in some shops, restaurants, or attractions you visit. To make things easy, keep masks on hand for everyone traveling so all can take part in any road trip stops.

Hot Car Awareness

Being on vacation can interrupt your routine and distract you from checking the back seat when you exit the vehicle. It’s hard to believe, but, on average, heatstroke deaths claim 38 children in the United States each year. Pets are also in grave danger when left in a car, even for a short period with the windows cracked.

NHTSA reminds everyone to keep our tiny loved ones safe with these tips:

Lock your car when you aren’t using it to prevent small children from entering.
Never leave your child alone in a car, even if you think you’ll only be away for a moment.
Always “look before you lock” so no child or animal remains in the back seat.

Many vehicles can alert you with a rear seat reminder. When drivers turn off the car, it alerts you to check for rear occupants. If you have an older car, aftermarket products also provide the same type of alert.

Gas Prices and Holiday Weekend Planning

As millions drive 50 miles or more from home during the Memorial Day weekend, you’ll want to prepare your stops along the way.

Last year, during Memorial Day weekend, travelers could fill up their tanks at $2.98 per gallon on average at stations across the U.S. As of this writing, gas prices reached a whopping $4.60 per gallon on average. Prices may rise even higher by the time summer travelers hit the roads.

RELATED STORIES: How to Get Better Fuel Economy in Your Vehicle

With many families driving large SUVs, trucks, and RVs on vacation, the cost of long road trips can rise to the level of plane tickets.

Before you head out, check local station prices using your favorite gas app. Gas Buddy, for example, will help you locate stations with the cheapest gas prices along your route. If you drive an electric car, map out your route and locate charging stations ahead of time.

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13 expert-approved road trip tips to ensure you have the best vacation possible – msnNOW

Posted on May 25, 2022 | by getsetntravel | Leave a Comment

13 expert-approved road trip tips to ensure you have the best vacation possible msnNOW

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Traffic Alert: road closures in Lebanon due to construction | News

Posted on May 22, 2022 | by getsetntravel | Leave a Comment

LEBANON, Ore.– From May 23 to June 15, portions of Primrose, Porter and Russell Streets in Lebanon will be closed to through traffic for construction.

Neighbors should expect short periods of time when access to individual roadways are not available.

There may also be short delays and other construction related inconveniences.

A detour route is in place.

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