- 1). Buy a map and take it with you. It should be up-to-date with the latest changes on road names or any major construction which is taking place in that specific route. Download it from the Internet or buy it from a travel bookshop or gas station. If you belong to an organization such as AAA, you can get customized route plans. A GPS device (remember to take the charger) is helpful, but it is always handy to take a map in case this device fails.
- 2). Have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic a few days prior to your departure. It is especially important to check the grip of your tires, as long driving and heat can sometimes lead to a blow-out. Consider a change of oil if you are going for a long route.
- 3). Most traffic-related websites (such as NAVTEQ) offer the opportunity to calculate routes by selecting different options like "shortest route," "most economical" or "sightseeing." Check them while planning and select the most suitable option.
- 4). Check beforehand if any construction works are taking place. A useful site is NAVTEQ (see Resources). Type an address, a state name or select the departing and arrival destinations. It works like a traffic light: green meaning the road is okay, yellow if there are minor problems and red for roads being closed or affected by major construction.
- 5). When driving, listen regularly to radio news for live updates. Traffic changes every minute of the day, so to avoid traffic jams and incidents, tune in to a local radio station every hour.
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