Memorial Day weekend is just around the corner, marking the unofficial start of summer and signaling road trips, beach outings, and barbecues for many. As you gear up to travel any time during the long weekend from May 25 to 27, here's a guide to ensure your road trip is fun, safe, and stress-free. Plus, think of your strategies now to stay well-hydrated in predicted hot and dry weather. Drink lots of water and schedule bathroom breaks into your departure and arrival times.
Weather Outlook: Expect hot and mostly dry conditions across the West during Memorial Day weekend, with isolated showers possible in the Rockies. To beat the heat and avoid traffic, consider planning your travels strategically.
Best Travel Times: AAA says the lightest traffic days will be Saturday and Sunday. For smoother journeys, aim to travel before 1 p.m. on Thursday and before noon on Friday. When heading home, plan to leave before 10 a.m. on Monday or opt for Tuesday before 2 p.m. or after 6 p.m.
Safety First: The National Safety Council (NSC) emphasizes the importance of safe driving practices, especially during holiday weekends. Here are five essential tips to keep in mind:
- Prepare Your Vehicle: Before hitting the road, ensure your vehicle is in top condition. Check oil levels, and tire pressure, and address any open recalls. Do not drive a damaged vehicle. Book time with Anderson's Autobody now to ensure hanging, busted or smashed parts are repaired especially since they always damage safety sensors underneath (such as parking and blind spot sensors).
- Drive Distraction-Free: Put away your cell phone while driving. Focus on the road and #JustDrive to prevent accidents caused by distractions. Ensure you pick up a cell phone charger for your vehicle or carry a wireless battery charger.
- Observe Speed Limits Across Different State and Towns: Speeding contributes to a significant portion of traffic fatalities. Stay within posted speed limits and remain alert for pedestrians and cyclists, especially in new Idaho or state towns you've never visited. Check your navigation system to ensure it's picking up various speed limits.
- Buckle Up and Feet on the Floor: Seat belts save lives. Ensure everyone in the vehicle wears a seat belt, and install child car seats correctly for younger passengers. Do not put legs up on the dash, or let someone in the passenger seat on their knees or feet tucked under. If your airbag goes off, it will severely injure that passenger - including a broken pelvis and facial bones.
- Stuff to Carry in Your Trunk: Bring plenty of bottled water during hot and dry weather. Dehydration can impair driving abilities, so drink water regularly. Keep extra bottles in your trunk along with a jumper pack or jumper cables for dead batteries, and ensure you have your spare tire and jack in case of a flat.