Adventure for the Whole Family

Across the country, families are getting ready to embark on exciting adventures. A recent AAA Travel survey revealed that nearly 100 million Americans – 4 in 10 U.S. adults – plan to take a family vacation this year.

Two-thirds of travelers are planning a summer getaway, while just under half plan to travel during spring. Road trips remain a popular vacation option for families, with 53 percent of traveling families expecting to hit the highways this year. This is especially true in the South, where 62 percent of travelers are likely to pack up their cars for a road trip this year.

Hitting the road also can be an economical way to vacation, according to recent AAA survey data. Gas prices are averaging more than a quarter cheaper in 2019 when compared to the first few months of last year. These lower prices could mean a little extra time exploring – 33 percent of Americans say they would consider taking an extra vacation if prices remain low.

Where are adventurous families headed this year? According to AAA’s travel editors, the most popular summer road trip destinations for 2019 include Las Vegas to National Parks; Northern California and the Southern Oregon Coast; Northern New England; Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina and Black Hills, South Dakota. More specially curated drive trips are available on AAA.com/RoadTrips.

AAA’s travel experts recommend the following tips to families headed on a road trip:

• Be prepared: Books, games and music can help entertain passengers. Keep healthy snacks on hand, especially if you can’t stop for a full meal.
• Stay safe: Plan frequent stops – about every 100 miles or two hours – to rest and remain alert. All passengers should wear seat belts or be secured in a child safety seat.
• Eliminate distractions: Pre-program your GPS device and adjust mirrors and seats before beginning to drive, and don’t use a handheld or hands-free cellphone while driving.
• Practice patience: Busy roads are commonplace during the summer driving season. Leaving earlier in the day can help you avoid heavy traffic.
• Research your destination: Map out your route in advance using AAA’s TripTik Travel Planner. A knowledgeable travel agent also can help you plan a stress-free vacation. Download the AAA Mobile app to find Diamond Rated hotels and restaurants as well as the latest gas prices.
• Be road trip ready: Taking your vehicle to an Approved Auto Repair facility for any scheduled maintenance is a smart move before embarking on a road trip. Keep an emergency kit inside your vehicle with flares, jumper cables, a first-aid kit and extra water.

AAA also recommends families plan and research as far ahead as possible to avoid missing out on popular activities and fun. Visit AAA.com/Travel to plan and book your family’s vacation today.