Summer is the perfect time to enjoy an all American tradition, the road trip. Whether it’s a coast to coast epic adventure or a simple weekend road trip, make it safe and stress-free. Simply follow these four tips to ensure a safe and stress-free summer of fun.

1. Do a Vehicle Check

Make sure your tires are properly inflated and in good shape. Check the engine oil and water. You might also check the air conditioner and your radio. Make sure you have enough room for everyone and their luggage. Also, consider your destination; if your road trip involves an off-road adventure, you may need a 4-wheel drive and/or a high clearance vehicle. These inspections may seem like a burden, but safety and comfort first, always.

2. Know Your Destination’s Traffic Law

While many traffic laws are uniform across the United States or are posted on highway and road signs, others are not. For example, some states, such as California, allow right turns on a red light while others do not. Also, if your road trip involves towing a trailer, the legal length and height can vary from state to state. Familiarize yourself with the unique traffic laws along your cross country road trip route. It can also be easy to begin speeding while you’re on a road trip, especially while driving through a long stretch of flat land. Be mindful of your speed to prevent traffic tickets so you can have a stress free time on the road and avoid any preventable expenses.

3. Take along a GPS Unit and a Paper Map

While using Google maps on your smartphone is fine, a GPS unit and a paper map are indispensable. For one thing, you may cross into areas with no cell coverage. For another, a paper map contains information you may not find online. Also, you can write on a paper map; you can make notes about different fun areas, for future reference. Moreover, you can pick up tourist maps along the way; these contain a wealth of useful information, including memories of your trip. No matter what method you end up using to find your way on your road trip, make sure you have a plan beforehand and know where you are going.

4. Make Reservations

While spontaneity is part of the fun, it won’t be fun if there’s no room, once you reach your destination. Popular camping destinations, such as Yellowstone, Zion National Park or Yosemite, are booked months in advance of summer. Big tourist cities, like New York, San Francisco, and Seattle, can also be booked up. So plan ahead, and don’t be left out in the cold. Book reservation both at your destination and along the road.

Summer is road tripping season and with a few precautions and a little planning, your summer road trip can be safe and stress-free. Remember the above four tips while prepping for and during the process of your road trip to avoid any issues and make it memorable.