This season, Americans are embarking on all types of journeys, from romantic weekends to outdoor activity focused getaways. In fact, 28 percent of Americans will take a road trip for the Thanksgiving holiday driving an average of 1,117 miles, according to the Hankook Quarterly Gauge Index. But what defines the ultimate road trip? Hear what drivers have to say:
For the romantic: Long, winding drives through scenic roads are timeless. The Hankook Gauge Index found that the majority of Americans think the most romantic way to get away is to “get in a car and keep driving” (38 percent), followed by taking a scenic train ride (37 percent), and flying far away in an airplane (25 percent).
For the sports fanatic: It is football and hockey season, after all. What better way to celebrate these sports in all of their glory than taking a road trip to catch a game? Better yet, stay fit and enjoy the outdoors by hitting the road for the ski slopes.
For the adrenaline junky: There’s nothing quite like zooming around in a sleek, sporty vehicle to get the heart pumping faster. According to the Gauge Index, race cars offer the “ultimate thrill ride,” compared to white water rafting, roller coasters and zip lining. For the racing junkies, many professional motorsports series run through the end of November. Take a trip to catch all the racing action in-person.
Whether you’re planning an epic excursion or taking in the scenic roads with someone special, before cruising away you’ll want to keep in mind these Hankook Tire driving tips:
* Check your tire pressure: With frequent weather and temperature changes, air in tires can expand and contract, causing them to lose air pressure. Make sure your tires are properly inflated and have plenty of tread.
* Plan ahead for wet conditions: Rainfall, snow and other undesirable driving conditions can decrease visibility and cause hydroplaning. Make sure your windshield wipers are in good working condition. If driving on a road with water or ice, slow down and avoid sudden movements with the steering wheel or brake pedal. If you feel like you’re floating, a possible indication of lost traction, gently release the accelerator pedal until you feel the tires make contact with the road surface.
* Stock up and be prepared: Extreme weather can cause you to go through lots of windshield washer fluid to ensure you can see ahead of you. Check to make sure all of your vehicle’s fluid levels are full with engine coolant and oil, brake fluid and no-freeze windshield wash. You should also check to make sure you have a spare tire, ice scraper, booster cables and a flashlight stored in your trunk.
* Don’t overload your car: Check the tire load carrying capacity indicated on the tire or vehicle owner’s manual for the maximum recommended load. When replacing tires, the speed rating and load index of the replacement tires must be equal to or greater than that of the tire being replaced to maintain the speed capability and weight carrying capacity.