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Follow our summer driving tips and plan for a safer, more fun summer. The summer months are the time when most Americans decide to plan their biggest road trips. That means that you are going to be spending more time on the road, driving greater distances, for longer periods of time.

Our summer driving tips will make these periods of time safer. In general, such long car trips means that there is more of a chance that your car might break down. That is why you want to follow these tips:

Summer Driving Tips For Before You Hit the road:

Tires. Check the tread depth and pressure of your tires, as well as whether or not there is uneven wear. And be sure to pack a real spare. If you are out in the middle of nowhere and your tire blows, you might have to drive quite a distance on your spare. Make sure that you switch your winter tires to all-season or summer tires.

Service your vehicle. Make sure that you take your car in for that needed oil change before you hit the road. Be sure that you all of your fluids are full (check the oil, windshield washer fluid, coolant/antifreeze, etc.)

Check your cooling system. Unless you know a lot about cars, we suggest that you have professionals help you check the radiator, belts and hoses, coolant, cooling fans, water pump, and heater core.

Also check (or have someone else check) the tie rod ends, steering components, ball joints, refrigerant level, compressor clutch, etc. Check your wiper blades and battery, too.

Pack an emergency kit that includes: jumper cables, flashlight, first aid, flares, water, nonperishable food, extra washer fluid, basic tools, and anything else that you think you might need.

Packing for your trip and loading your car: be smart about it. You do not need to take your entire wardrobe for a weekend trip! The less you bring, the lighter your car will be, and the less gas you will use. Be sure that when you load your car you keep the drivers visibility clear (if it is not, perhaps you need to rethink the items that are really necessary to bring on your trip). Keep the items that you may need on top (like snacks, camera, etc.)

Summer Driving Tips For Once You Are on Your Merry Way:

Stay awake! Long drives mean longer hours at the wheel, and most people cannot handle more than a few hours driving without some kind of break. Take breaks when you need them. Switch drivers often. Pull over for the night if you are really drowsy. Before you drive, make sure that you are well-rested from the night before. Caffeine may help in the short-term, but it can hinder you in the long-run.

Why not take the scenic route? Do not be in a hurry to get to your destination. A road trip is not a good excuse to set your cruise control at 10mph above the speed limit. Besides, a road trip is not just about the destination, it is about the journey.

If you are towing a boat or trailer, be sure that you drive slowly and smoothly. You must do everything with more caution, including turning, accelerating, braking, and changing lanes. Be sure that you have good mirrors that will help you cover your blind spots.

Try to drive during the daylight hours. You will be able to see better and will have more reaction time to obstacles up ahead.

Watch out for our favorite furry critters!

The most important summer driving tip is to have fun! Well, actually, that is the second most important. The most important summer driving tip is to be safe and cautious.

Anne Clarke writes numerous articles for websites on gardening, parenting, fashion, and home decor. Her background includes teaching and gardening. For more of her articles on safety and driving, please visit Specialty Parts.