6. KNOW WHAT TO DO IN AN EMERGENCY

We're not saying you're going to have an emergency, but it's good to be ready in case disaster strikes.

Contact police

If you have a cell phone, dialing #55 usually puts you through to state highway patrol officers. Police officers, sheriff's deputies and highway patrol officers all have uniform shoulder badges, so look for them before opening your door or windows.

Changing a tire

If you learn anything from this article, let it be this: stay away from Crazy Roadside Killer Bob. Second on the list is how to change a tire. Ehow has how to change a flat tireinstructions on changing a tire. Print it out. Keep it in your glove compartment. Thank us later.

Don't fall asleep at the wheel

It's simple: if you're tired, stop driving. Dull landscapes, droning tires, passing street lamps, you are getting sleeeeeepy. These repetitive patterns can cause what's called "highway hypnosis," which numbs drivers' senses and slows their reaction time. To avoid driver fatigue:

  • Sleep at least 8 hours before leaving for a long drive.

  • Don't start a trip late in the day.

  • If possible, don't drive alone. Take turns driving and keep talking as a way to stay awake.

  • Avoid long drives at night. The glare of lights both on your dashboard and outside your car increases the chances of highway hypnosis.

  • Adjust the car's environment to keep you alert: Keep the temperature cool with open windows or air conditioning. Turn the radio on and switch stations frequently; avoid easy-listening music (not only does it belong in an elevator, but it'll shut those eyes before you know it). Instead, listen to talk radio.

  • Stop for stretching and snacks.

At nighttime, don't pull into deserted highway rest stops for a quick snooze. If you can't find a motel, your best bet is to find an all-night gas station or roadside restaurant and sleep in your car. Even 20 minutes of sleep can help you get through the night without nodding off at the wheel. But make sure that there are people around.

And that's everything! Bring a video camera, take pictures, and have fun. Even if your car ends up smelling like a pungent mixture of dirty shoes and bologna sandwiches, driving cross-country is one of those things you'll never forget. And remember, if you send us a postcard, we promise to post it below.

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