(ThyBlackMan.com) If there is one thing Chevy Chase taught us in the Vacation movies, long road trips can be hazardous. With kids sat in the back of the car shouting and complaining, and other road users hogging the highway, a long road trip can be a huge test of our patience.
To help you keep your sanity if you are taking to the road this summer, here are some helpful tips to help you survive the trip.
Get your car serviced
You don’t want your tyres blowing out when driving at speed, and a police officer is the last person you want behind you when you 
have places to be, so make sure your car is in tip-top condition. From the tyres to your brake lights, give your car a thorough once-over. If in doubt take your car to a professional who will service the car for you. Your safety is paramount, so knowing your car is stable will give you peace of mind before you embark on your long journey.
Buy supplies
Whether traveling alone or with family, your car needs to be stocked up with supplies.
Load your car with healthy snacks for when you get hungry, but remember to pull over somewhere safe to have your impromptu picnic. If you have kids in the car, a few treats will keep them happy for a little while, but avoid anything too sugary as you don’t want them falling ill on the journey.
Bring your favorite music tracks. You don’t want to listen to the endless chatter on the radio, and you might wish to drown out your family if they are getting on your nerves, so having your tunes blasting through the speakers will keep you entertained.
You should never use your cell phone while driving unless it’s a handsfree kit. However, your phone is your lifeline, so make sure you pack your charger. You may need to call your breakdown service, or in the worst case scenario, legal help if you have an accident, such as this attorney for big truck crashes.
Take a break
You don’t want to fall asleep behind the wheel, so take a break once in awhile. There should be plenty of rest stops, so every couple of hours pull over and go for a toilet break and get something to eat. Your legs will need the exercise to avoid cramp, and you will benefit from the fresh air away from the confines of your car.
Should you have another driver in the car with you, take turns in driving. You will benefit from the break and give you time to nap.
Avoid shortcuts
No matter how tempting, don’t try to reduce your driving time by taking an unplanned shortcut. You don’t know where you will end up and it would be a nightmare if you got stuck in the middle of nowhere. Life is all about the journey, and the same is true in your car. Despite the long road ahead, try and enjoy the experience, from taking in the scenery to spending time with your loved ones.
Staff Writer; Greg Wilson