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Family road trips can become some of your most treasured memories or your biggest headaches. With a little planning and a family meeting, you can have a fun adventure to remember for years. RoadTrip America offers these travel tips:

Get ready …

1. Hold a planning meeting with your family and pull up a big map on a screen. Talk about places that would appeal to all family members.
2. Decide whether you will make reservations for your lodgings ahead of time or if everyone is comfortable finding a roadside motel along the way.
3. Consider assigning part of a day to each child to plan activities and stops.
4. Have your vehicle checked out by a mechanic.

Get set …

5. Pack a "Go Kit" with food, water, maps, weather-appropriate outerwear (rain jackets, blankets, etc.), a first-aid kit, and essential safety devices and tools.
6. Charge your tablets, laptops, phones, and portable DVD players, and pack the chargers and power banks in your bags.
7. Pack a cooler with plenty of water and healthy snacks, including fruits and vegetables. Include enough ice packs to keep the cooler below 40 degrees.

Go!

8. Remember that road trips become part of family lore; keep the pace relaxed and fun, not overly ambitious or stressful.
9. Take an unexpected exit and make it a true adventure.
10. Take frequent breaks at rest stops. Get everyone out of the car to stretch and walk a bit.
11. Eat at unique, non-chain restaurants when possible.
12. Talk to other travelers. Share your family adventures, and ask for tips and ideas.
13. Be patient. Drive fewer hours, and spend more time enjoying each location.
14. Drive safely.

By following these tips, your family will have a happy adventure for all to remember for years to come.

If you are looking for advice on saving for and financing your trip, contact First Florida Credit Union today at (800) 766-4328, ext. 1 or visit FirstFlorida.org.

Source: Copyright Credit Union National Association, Inc.