This is a happy, festive, and joyous time of year, and like you, we at Gladstone Suzuki look forward to spending the holidays with our families and friends. But we also know that there’s a lot of last-minute rushing around, harried trips from home to the relatives, and some long distances to be covered on congested roads. We want you to be safe and get to your destinations so you can make the most of your Christmas; here are a few things to keep in mind to mitigate stress and make the most of your holiday travel.

1) Prepare your vehicle. Make sure you’ve got your tires properly inflated, check your oil and fluid levels, and if you’re going somewhere cold, switch your windshield washer fluid to the winter formulation. Keep your fuel tank above 1/4 full at all times to avoid damage to your car and to keep yourself from running out unexpectedly on longer trips. Take your vehicle into the car wash so your windows are clean for good road visibility, and clear out any unnecessary items to make room for your passengers, gifts and prepared food in crock pots. Make sure you’ve got all your emergency gear in the car as well, from blankets, road flares and tire chains to your owner’s manual and roadside assistance contact information. Cell phone chargers and spare batteries are also good ideas.

2) Make sure all your cargo is secure, and isn’t blocking your view of the road. Don’t stack items so high that you can’t see through your rear windshield, and make sure food and other items are sealed and secure to avoid spills. Keep pets and kids in the rear seats where they won’t interfere with the driver.

3) Stick to the speed limits. If you’re like most people, you’ll feel like you’re running late for everything and can make up time by going 10 or 15 miles over the speed limit. Note that many other drivers sharing the road with you will feel that way, too. Let them pass and keep your wits about you, and you’ll arrive at your destination safe and sane. Being a few minutes late is far better than not reaching your destination due to a breakdown or fender bender.

4) Don’t text while driving. We’re all tempted to send updates to people at our destinations as to when we’ll arrive, but leave that role your front seat passenger. If you’re the driver, focus on safe driving and delegate communications and navigation to the person riding shotgun.

5) If you’ve had a few too many, let somebody else do the driving or stay in the guest room. Highway patrol and local enforcement staff up for holiday travel, but our primary concern is your safety and the safety of your family. Add a list of cab companies to your smartphone’s contact list, and if you’re staying at a hotel check with the concierge about mass transit and hotel shuttles.

If you’re in need of a reliable vehicle before your holiday travels, browse our new inventory and pre-owned vehicles 24/7 at gladstonesuzuki.com. Otherwise, come see us after you return safely from the holidays and we’ll be happy to help you find the car of your dreams.