Spring Break Travel Safety is more than just a checklist—it’s a mindset. For families and students across Middle Tennessee, spring break often means hitting the road for new adventures. But with more drivers, longer road trips, and unpredictable weather, staying alert and prepared can make the difference between a fun getaway and a stressful situation.
In the second installment of our Spring Into Safety series, we’re sharing the most important Spring Break Travel Safety tips to help you protect your passengers, avoid common road hazards, and enjoy your trip with peace of mind.
Missed the first part of the series? Read April Showers and Slick Roads: Mastering Wet Weather Driving
1. Start with a Vehicle Check for Spring Break Travel Safety
Before packing your bags, take time to check the essentials:
- Tire tread and pressure
- Brake function
- Oil, coolant, windshield washer fluid
- Headlights, brake lights, and blinkers
A quick tune-up or oil change before your trip can go a long way in preventing breakdowns on the road. Your vehicle is your first layer of protection when it comes to Spring Break Travel Safety.
2. Plan Your Route and Share It with Someone
Use a GPS or app to plan your route ahead of time—but also take a moment to:
- Identify safe rest stops
- Monitor weather and traffic
- Share your route with a friend or family member
Planning ahead minimizes stress, helps avoid last-minute surprises, and gives you options if the unexpected happens—key parts of any good Spring Break Travel Safety strategy.
3. Minimize Distractions and Stay Focused on the Road
Long-distance driving increases the temptation to check your phone, adjust controls, or get distracted by conversations.
Here’s how to avoid that:
- Use Do Not Disturb While Driving mode on your phone
- Have passengers help with navigation or entertainment
- Set up playlists, climate control, and GPS before leaving
Safe and focused driving is essential to Spring Break Travel Safety for both families and student travelers.
4. Know the Signs of Fatigue and Take Regular Breaks
If your trip is more than two or three hours, plan to stop every 100 miles or 2 hours. Fatigue causes slower reaction times and poor decision-making.
Signs of driver fatigue:
- Frequent yawning or blinking
- Trouble remembering the last few miles
- Drifting from your lane
Switch drivers if possible, and if you’re solo, don’t be afraid to pull over and rest. Rest is part of the Spring Break Travel Safety mindset.
5. Buckle Up, Secure Kids, and Lock Down Loose Items
Seat belts save lives—make sure:
- Everyone is buckled up at all times
- Kids are in the right car seats or boosters
- Loose bags and items are stowed or secured
Unsecured luggage in a sudden stop can become a hazard. These simple actions go a long way in preventing injury and keeping everyone safe during your spring break trip.
6. Hydrate, Eat Smart, and Avoid Energy Crashes
Snacks and drinks might seem minor, but they impact your alertness and mood:
- Keep water bottles handy
- Choose high-protein or low-sugar snacks
- Avoid heavy meals before or during long stretches of driving
Stay energized and alert—it’s another small but important step in practicing smart Spring Break Travel Safety.
7. Be Ready for Emergencies
Even the best plans can hit a bump. For extra peace of mind:
- Carry a first aid kit, phone charger, flashlight, and jumper cables
- Know how to reach your roadside assistance provider
- Save emergency contact numbers in your phone
Bonus tip: In Tennessee, you can call *THP (*847) for help from the Tennessee Highway Patrol.
Conclusion: Prioritize Spring Break Travel Safety for a Trip to Remember
Spring break is about making memories—not dealing with roadside emergencies or accidents. Whether you’re heading to the mountains, the beach, or just across the state, Spring Break Travel Safety should be part of your plan from start to finish.
At Stillman & Friedland, we’re here to support Middle Tennessee families and students before and after every journey. If something goes wrong on the road, we’re ready to help.
Call us at 615-244-2111 or use our online contact form for a free consultation.
Because we care…
Stillman and Friedland
