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Travel without the Hassle |
| ARA Content |
(ARA) – Family vacations are a tradition as old as travel itself. But these days with far-flung family and dwindling free time, planning a trip that's fun for everyone takes on greater importance. It can be challenging to juggle a family's limited vacation time with the opportunity to relax and enjoy each other's company. Often parents and kids are too tired, stressed, hungry or bored to find ways to reconnect on vacation.
When deciding how to travel, parents often have to choose the lesser of two evils: Endure the expense, hassle and dirty looks of fellow passengers by traveling by plane, or take on the crowded, cramped car and stop for lodging and meals? Many people are finding there's a better way: traveling by RV.
Hitting the highway in an RV is an increasingly popular choice for families who want to arrive at their destination happy and relaxed. With an RV, families can travel at their own pace and take in sights without worrying about finding lodging and meals.
On-the-go Meals.
No more searching for a restaurant when hunger pangs strike. In an RV everyone can eat when they're hungry -- without succumbing to over-priced junk food from the drive-through. Picky eaters or those on special diets are no problem when you travel with your own kitchen. Bring along a portable grill for barbeque meals, or pop in a pizza. On-board refrigerators make it easy to stock up on healthy snacks like fruit, veggies and dip.
Every Member of the Family is Invited.
RVs also mean comfort for every member of the family -- including the four-legged ones. You don't have to choose between kennels and cargo holds. More and more campgrounds and parks are pet-friendly (provided you follow the rules), though you should double check before you pull in. Most pets enjoy traveling, but do a few test-runs in the weeks prior to your trip to make sure your furry friend doesn't have issues with motion sickness or anxiety. Remember to tag your pet with your local address and to bring copies of vaccination records.
Bring What You Want.
Pack as much as you need. RVs have plenty of storage whether you're traveling for a week or for several months. As airline carry-on restrictions become tighter, it's becoming more difficult to bring all the items you need for a family vacation. Packing cribs, car seats, toys and clothes can take up every square inch of space in the family car, and all of it needs to be carted across parking lots and up stairs at each stop. An RV means everyone can take along the items important to them, and you'll still have room for fun extras like board games, in-line skates, musical instruments, art supplies and craft projects.
Stop Mishaps before They Start
Prior to departure, ensure your safety and peace of mind by performing a thorough check of your vehicle. Careful planning and preventative maintenance can help you avoid bumps in the road, but it makes sense to be prepared, just in case something does happen. A stocked toolbox could save you time-consuming and costly repairs. For a real feeling of confidence, consider joining an auto service club. The Good Sam Club, which began in 1966 as an association of RV owners, offers many benefits to its members, including roadside assistance. Even better, Good Sam members enjoy a 10 percent discount at 1,700 RV parks, access to trip planning services and discounts on insurance rates.
Enjoy the Journey.
Remember to use your travel time as an opportunity to connect with your family. Share stories, start traditions and make memories. Traveling by RV offers the opportunity to explore the scenic vistas, national parks, vacation hot-spots and top destinations with comfort and convenience. Hitting the road gives families the chance to re-connect, relax and rejuvenate.
For more information on The Good Sam Club, visit www.goodsamclub.com or call (800) 234-3450.
SIDEBAR
Before You Leave
To avoid "uh-oh" moments or unscheduled trips to the store, follow these checklists for both RV and home, courtesy of Highways magazine, the official publication of The Good Sam Club.
Don't forget to bring with you:
*Address book
*Binoculars
*Blanket
*Camera
*CDs
*Cell phone and accessories
*Check book
*Club membership cards
*Credit cards
*Door mat
*First-aid kit
*Flashlights
*Lawn chairs/table
*Laptop computer
*Maps
*Pillows
*Sheets
*Spare bulbs
*Spare keys
*Sunglasses
*Umbrella
Before you leave the house, don't forget:
*Adjust air-conditioning/heat
*Turn off programmable appliances, like coffee pots
*Request hold for mail and newspapers
*Turn off ice-maker
*Set lamp timers
*Adjust water heater setting
Before you pull your RV out of the driveway, make sure:
*Drawers and cabinets are tightly closed and latched
*Satellite dishes and antenna are ready for travel
*Bikes, chairs, and other accessories are secure
*Propane valves are in the "off" position
*Faucets are closed and drains are open
*Slideouts are retracted and locked
*Counters and tables are clear of loose objects and debris
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| About the Author |
©2005 All rights reserved
Courtesy of ARA Content
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