As airfare prices skyrocket and flying becomes more of a hassle due to cancellations, long security lines and overbooked flights, more summer travelers are considering their vehicle as a means to their summer destinations. The United States offers a magnitude of drivable hot spots worthy of a long drive. Whether you crave beach, mountains, canyons or cities, the options are numerous. Once you’ve settled on the perfect choice, here are some pointers to make that drive as pleasant, cost effective and quick as possible.
Prior to departure, plan ahead. It would be wise to have your vehicle inspected. You do not want to be due for an an oil change while in transit or changing a tire while on the road. It is also worth noting that tires that are not properly inflated consume extra gas milage. Before starting your trip, ensure you are covered with a roadside assistance service such as OnStar or AAA. It is also a good idea to have an emergency kit that includes items such as jumper cables, medical supplies, flashlight, blanket and tools.
Then, consider the costs you will encounter along your trip. Gas, lodging, depending on the length of the drive, food, parking, tolls and miscellaneous expenses. To utilize less gas, try to use cruise control when possible or maintain a steady speed. When refilling your tank, opt for smaller in-town gas stations as opposed to those immediately off the highway where prices are elevated.
Utilize a navigation system that will alert you and help you avoid accidents, traffic, construction and other delays. However, it is always a good idea to download a map in case you are in an area without reception. Pack a cooler of drinks and snacks that can be refilled at a store rather than a gas station where the cost will be significantly higher. Download apps such as BestParking to find the least expensive parking options in your new location and compare prices for hotels on Kayak to get the best deal. Apps like Roadtripper can be a game changer when on the road, helping you to identify new favorite places along your route and attractions at your destination.
Lastly, you can rest assured you will not miss anything important by downloading the Pan American Bank & Trust mobile banking app from the App Store or Google Play. This app will guarantee you can enjoy your trip while still being able to deposit checks remotely, view accounts, pay bills, submit wire transfers and much more. It’s free, secure and easy to use, so you can focus on enjoying your trip.