With the holiday fast approaching, more and more Americans will be planning to go on holiday vacation. A recent survey conducted nationwide shows that more Americans are traveling by land than by air. Chrysler's Dodge brand commissioned the national survey to find out what Americans prefer when it comes to traveling this holiday season. The survey showed that 77 percent of Americans will be taking to the roads instead of flying to their destination. This is despite the fact that 59 percent of the polled respondents said that they have experienced stress before or during a family road trip.
According to the survey, the most common reason why Americans become stressed put during road trips is the lack of activity. To beat this, automakers are now offering vehicles equipped with DVD players and LCD screens as well as satellite radios. These features go a long way in reducing the "Are we there yet?" questions especially from youngsters. Parents can also devise other activities to keep boredom at bay. Games like spotting license plates from different states and the likes can be played by the whole family to keep them entertained.
One of the reason why Americans choose to travel by land than air is the sense of control that they have when traveling by lad-bound vehicles. Road trips allow them to enjoy not only the destination but the trip as well. Thus, vehicles with a navigation system which locates points of interest along the way can also keep stress away. A good navigation system also allows drivers to choose a different route home so that kids can be entertained not only on the way to vacation destination but also on the way home.
Packing is also a major contributor to stress. Thus, it is recommended for motorists to pack their things in such a way that finding the right object at the right time will not involve emptying the storage bins. Last in first out is what motorists should remember. Always keep things that will be needed during the trip easily accessible. Those things that will be needed on the trip home should be packed first.
Two days ahead of a road trip. Clean out the interior and cargo area of the vehicle. This will give you a chance to leave what is not needed during the trip, like . Also, make sue that the interior light especially in the cargo area is working. If not, replace it immediately or have it checked by a qualified automotive technician. The day before you leave, make sure that everything is already packed so that you can actually leave first thing in the morning. Remember that packing takes more time than some of us might think.
One of the vehicles that is perfect for road trips is the 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan which has comfortable seats and adequate storage space which Americans going on road trips are looking for. Ralph Gilles, Vice President - Jeep/Truck, Advance Interior and Component Design, Chrysler said: "Today's families are on the move, and the all-new 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan is purpose-built to serve their everyday needs. With new features such as the Swivel 'n Go(TM) seating system, dual DVD entertainment system and SIRIUS Backseat TV, the Grand Caravan brings the comforts of home on the road."
