Nearly 100 million Americans – 4 in 10 U.S. adults – are planning to take a family vacation in 2019, slightly more than last year, according to a recent AAA Travel survey. Spring and summer road trips top many of these families’ vacation plans.
Two-thirds of all family travelers (68 percent) intend to take a summer getaway, while just under half (45 percent) plan to travel as a family this spring.
Traveling by car remains the largest draw for families, with about half of those intending to travel (53 percent) saying they plan to pack up their cars for a road trip this year.
“The great American road trip is still one of the best ways for families to relax and reconnect with one another,” said Stacey Barber, Executive Director, AAA Travel Information & Content. “This is quickly shaping up to be another busy year for family travelers, both on the roadways, as well as other popular travel destinations and attractions.”
AAA’s travel experts offer these top tips for a perfect family road trip:
Be prepared – For passengers, pack books, games, or music for the ride, and a pillow. Bring information on your destination to keep kids and other passengers entertained. Pack healthy snacks for kids, especially if you can’t stop for a full meal while traveling.
Safety first – Drivers should plan frequent stops, about every 100 miles or two hours, to remain alert. Make sure everyone is restrained by seat belts or a child safety seat to prevent injury in case of a sudden stop, swerve or crash.
Pack your patience – Be prepared for busy roads and long airport security lines throughout the summer. If hitting the road during a holiday weekend, consider leaving earlier or later than the typical holiday travel times to avoid heavy traffic.
Do your research – To make the most of your trip, map out your route in advance, using a tool like AAA’s TripTik Travel Planner.
Be road trip ready – Take your vehicle to a trusted repair facility to perform any needed maintenance before heading out on a road trip. In case of an emergency, always carry a flashlight, extra batteries, warning devices such as flares or reflective triangles, jumper cables, a first-aid kit and extra water.
