Travel brings a sense of adventure into your life. It can also bring a number of hazards with it. That is just part of the deal. However, that doesn’t mean that the hazards of the road need to curtail your travel plans. In this post, we take a look at three of the most common travel dangers you might encounter and what you can do to prevent them.

Watch the Weather for Your Route

Bad weather can really put a damper on your travel plans, literally. Unexpected conditions like flash floods, hurricanes and even wind do get in the way of even the best-laid plans. However, they don’t have to stop your travel plans indefinitely, particularly if the bad weather is along the route to your destination and not at the destination itself. If this turns out to be the case, then you will want to come up with some alternative travel routes. Online maps and travel sites can help you out with this.

Watch for Erratic Drivers

These days, modern roads are filled with distracted, erratic drivers, including drunk drivers, inattentive texters, and others. You want to be on the lookout for these hazards. Some of the road dangers to be aware of are signs of drunk driving (and other inattentive driving behaviors), which can include:

• Ultra-wide turns
• Nearly hitting objects on the road or roadside
• Swerving and weaving
• Driving the wrong way
• Tailgating
• Driving too slowly
• Odd behavior, like stopping suddenly

Watch What You Wear

If what you wear looks out of place to locals, it is also likely to look out of place to thieves. If you look out of place to thieves, then you could be an easy target for theft. In light of this, it is best to research the clothing customs of the places you will be traveling to before you leave home. The idea is that you want to dress so that you don’t stand out. You should also make sure you are dressing appropriately for whatever activities you plan on participating in. Proper clothing and safety gear will allow you to have fun adventures, without worrying about your safety.

Bad weather, erratic drivers, and even the clothing you wear can all cause significant issues when you are traveling. However, that doesn’t mean you should stay home this summer. Instead, you can prepare yourself ahead of time for these possible eventualities. Doing so arms you with the tools necessary to avoid most of these issues if you can or at least mitigates their effects if you can’t totally avoid them.

With summer on its way, many families are planning their annual beach vacations. Fortunately for sun-worshipping vacationers, the U.S. is flush with beach destination options. The only challenging part is picking your favorite. Here are three of the best beaches to consider putting at the top of your travel bucket list this summer.

Rehoboth Beach, DE

This east coast gem is one of the most family-friendly beaches in the country. A variety of lodging accommodations in a myriad of price points makes it easy to find a place for your budget. Children will appreciate all the entertainment to be had at Funland, and adults will enjoy tax-free shopping. Visitors to Rehoboth Beach also enjoy renting bikes and exploring this quaint seaside town that is full of character. Beer enthusiasts will want to check out the Dogfish Head pub on Rehoboth Avenue for a pint of delicious brew. Be sure not to miss sampling the popular saltwater taffy while strolling along the lively boardwalk. There are always new events going on, so make sure to check out the Rehoboth Beach community calendar.

Gulf Shores, AL

Gulf Shores has emerged as a top beach vacation destination in recent years. From miles of sandy beaches to a variety of watersports to some of the nation's best deep-sea fishing, Gulf Shores has all of the ingredients for a fabulous vacation. If you're a seafood lover, you're in luck. Gulf Shores boasts tons of delicious southern-style seafood restaurants for your dining pleasure. King Neptune's Seafood Restaurant is a favorite with both tourists and locals. Located in the heart of Gulf Shores, this restaurant serves up heaping helpings of favorites such as steamed shrimp, fried oysters, fried cornmeal battered catfish, steak, and pasta dishes. 

Santa Monica, CA

If you are looking for glitz, glamour, and an abundance of action, then Santa Monica should be your beach of choice. Located in the Los Angeles metropolitan area, this famous beach is the place to be this summer. The historic Santa Monica Pier is lined with various shops and restaurants. Kids will delight in the many amusement park rides such as the iconic Ferris wheel and carousel. The Santa Monica Pier Aquarium provides hours of hands-on learning for curious minds. There is never a dull moment at Santa Monica Beach.

Create memories to last a lifetime this summer with a classic beach vacation. With the right research and planning, you will enjoy the perfect trip for your personal preferences in the continental U.S.

A unique way to travel the US is by bus. Check out Holiday bus tours vacation options to find the perfect one for you and your family today!