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AAA Offers 10 Tips for a Hassle-Free Winter Getaway

11 December 1997

AAA Offers 10 Tips for a Hassle-Free Winter Getaway

    SAN FRANCISCO, Dec. 11 -- If a long car trip this winter to
visit Grandma sounds overwhelming, think again.  By following AAA's ten tips
for auto travel, your winter getaway can become a vacation to remember.

    *Make your hotel reservations well in-advance.  AAA travel agents can help
you find the best deal for your budget and itinerary.
    * Don't leave home without your hotel confirmation number.  You may be
asked to present it when checking-in.  This proof of reservation will come in
handy if the property is over-booked.
    * Plan your route ahead of time.  AAA members can visit their local AAA
office to receive a Triptik routing, which includes customized directions,
related maps and valuable tourism information.
    * Contact your local police or sheriff's office to inquire about a house
watch.  Many agencies provide a perimeter check of your home -- such as doors,
windows and fences while you are away.  Remember to put a temporary hold on
your mail and newspaper delivery, or ask a neighbor to pick them up.
    * Make sure you are well-rested before you leave.  Stop every few hours to
re-energize -- especially if you are traveling with kids.
    * Dress in comfortable, loose clothing.  Consider dressing in layers to
accommodate changes in temperature.
    * Verify that all passengers are buckled up.  Children 12 and under should
travel in the back seat and he properly secured in a child safety seat or with
lap and shoulder belts.
    * Pack an emergency kit in your car.  The kit should include jumper
cables, a flashlight with fresh batteries, blankets, flares or a reflective
triangle, an ice scraper and a small shovel.
    * If you are traveling with your children, pack books or small toys to
occupy them during the trip.  Let them choose the radio station, or bring
along a tape or CD player with headphones.
    * Travel with a cellular phone -- especially if you are traveling off the
beaten track.

    The AAA affiliate for Northern California, Nevada, and Utah serves nearly
4 million members with an array of automotive, travel and insurance services.

SOURCE  American Automobile Association