Summer means road trips, beach days, and lots of time exploring new places as a family. Traveling with kids can be such a joy, but trips are even more fun when they are safe and low-stress. We’ve rounded up our top tips for a summer travel safety checklist that will help keep your vacations fun and your family safe.
1. Check Your Home.
Don’t let your home announce that you are on vacation. Before driving off, do one last check to be sure all of the doors are locked and windows are closed. If you have an alarm system, activate it, and if you have a surveillance camera, check to see that there is nothing obstructing the view.
For families with more than one car, consider leaving one in the driveway or other visible location.
2. Check Your Mail.
Look for mail in the mailbox or packages near the door. A box sitting by the front door for a week is a good indicator that the house is empty.
The United States Postal Service offers a mail hold service that allows you to request that your mail not be delivered while you are gone. You can choose to either pick up mail at the post office on your return or select the day that you would like all of the mail delivered.
3. Check Your Car.
If it’s been a while since your car’s last tune up, now is the time to check your tire pressure, coolant, and oil levels. Ensure that your jumper cables are in the trunk.
Be sure you have your car insurance ID card and roadside assistance information available. If your insurance provider has an app, download it prior to leaving, just in case!
If you are renting a car, be sure to ask for appropriate car seats or booster seats to keep your kiddos safe while on the go.
When stopping for gas or meals, be sure everyone gets out of the car, especially the tiniest of babies. Sitting in the car in the hot summer sun can put your family at risk for heat stroke, which is dangerous and not a good start to your trip.
While driving, check your speedometer against speed limit signs. Towns along popular vacation routes are well known for giving tickets to summer travelers who are eager to reach their destinations.
4. Check Your Bag.
Making extra stops can make a car trip feel way too long. Pack a cooler with waters and everyone’s favorite snacks so everyone stays hydrated and well fed.
For families with young kids, be sure the diaper bag is well stocked and easy to access. No matter their ages, have a change of clothes in an accessible area if your kids tend to have spills or messes when eating in the car.
Bring activities to keep the kids entertained.
If you are driving and plan to stop for an outdoor excursion or picnic, pack sunscreen to prevent sunburn. Also bring along a first aid kit in case a short hike at a rest stop turns into a bee sting and scraped knee.
For families who are flying, bring a carry-on bag with medications and essential overnight items, just in case your checked luggage is lost.
5. Check Your Phone.
Before hitting the road, make sure your phone is fully charged, and bring any chargers you will need. Consider investing in a power bank if you’ll be stuck in the car or an airport for an extended period of time.
Take tons of photos to document your fun family memories, but consider waiting until you are home to post them on social media. Publicly sharing that you are away may draw attention to the fact that your home is empty for the week.
6. Check Your Map.
Even if you know the way, check your GPS for traffic delays or construction along the way.
Plan for a few stops so everyone can stretch their legs and get a break from the car. It is recommended that drivers take a 15-20 minute break every 2 hours or 100-150 miles, so use a map to see which exits have good options for stops.
7. Check Your Surroundings.
You may find yourself at a bathroom you wouldn’t usually stop at or restaurant you remembered looking a lot safer when you were younger. Trust your instincts and only stop at places that you feel safe. When possible, avoid stopping at night.
No matter where you are, stick together and talk to your kids about what to do if you get separated. Be sure they know your phone number. If you think they will forget, write it on their tummies or arms at the beginning of the day. Make a habit of pointing out safe adults, like police or a store clerk, that they can go to if they need help.
8. Check Your Mirror.
When you’re safely on the road, sneak a peak at your precious family and cherish every moment. Enjoy your safe, happy, and memory-filled summer adventures!
Now that you have your safety checklist, why not visit one of these great road trip destinations?
