Summertime is the most anticipated time of year for a road trip – the temperature is warmer throughout the country, kids are out of school and parents can turn in unused vacation days for a much-needed break from the office. Each year, millions of families pack up their cars and hit the roads. However, as children grow into licensed teen drivers, the idea of taking a road trip with their friends becomes more enticing than spending hours in the car with mom and dad.

The movie “National Lampoon’s Vacation” follows the Griswold family on a 2,405-mile road trip from Chicago to Walley World, a fictional amusement park outside of Los Angeles, California. Clark, the father, insists on driving “because getting there is half the fun!”

Whether you’re traveling a long distance or just going to the next town over, the best way to prepare for an enjoyable road trip is to make sure that both your home and vehicle are ready. Looking forward to all the fun you’ll have on your adventure is exciting, but consider what you need to do before you head out for a stress-free journey.