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Travel without the Hassle |
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(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.
Courtesy of ARA Content
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South Lake Tahoe
21°C |
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