Travel

You Can Make Your Next Road Trip More Comfortable—And Stress Free

Posted: 10/11/2012

If you have a roadside emergency, the right device can help you turn lemons into lemonade. For example, a GPS device can pinpoint your exact location if your car breaks down.

(NAPSI)—Whether you’re driving across town or across the country, here are some tips to keep you on the road to safety and savings and help you get the most out of your trip.

Cool Ways to Save on Gas

Gas prices may move up and down but the desire to save money never changes. That said, don’t sweat the AC; trying to save money by turning off the air conditioner doesn’t save gas and opening the windows actually uses more gas by decreasing aerodynamics.

Similarly, don’t throw money away on premium octane in the hopes that it contains special detergents or will improve performance. The EPA requires that all gas include detergents and, generally, only sports cars require premium gasoline. For best mileage, stick with your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended fuel—your wallet will thank you.

Put it in “Park”

For some people, hitting the open road with a full tank of gas is a uniquely liberating feeling. However, coming upon an unexpected road closure or gridlock can kill an adventurous mood quickly.

The good news is that you can use technology—such as a GPS device-to plan the best route in advance and find places to stop and stretch your legs along the way.

Developed in the early 1970s, the Global Positioning System, or GPS, is a satellite navigation system that provides location and time information.

Using a GPS can help you take the road less traveled, and stopping at state parks and hiking trails can keep your legs—and brain—from going numb.

Save the “Jams” for Later

Take a car filled with kids and a dog, add in a traffic jam and a chorus of “Are we there yet?” and you have a recipe for what can be a very long afternoon.

Fortunately, you can save yourself time and stress by avoiding traffic tie-ups altogether. Navigation devices can be beneficial for avoiding traffic. For instance, TomTom’s GO LIVE devices feature real-time traffic, which automatically reroutes you away from congestion.

A Plan for the Worst

If you have a roadside emergency, the right device can help you turn lemons into lemonade. For example, a GPS device can pinpoint your exact location. You can tell emergency services exactly where you are, even if you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere.

To learn more or view live traffic information, visit www.tomtom.com/traffic.

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