For many people, the holidays bring miles and miles of road trips across the country to see loved ones. If you have a long drive ahead of you, it’s important to prepare. No one wants to start off the holidays with an uncomfortable ride through bad weather. While you can’t always control what happens on the road, you can set yourself up for success with a few essential tips and tricks. Learn how to make your long holiday drive more comfortable with this guide.

Start with a well-maintained car

You have a lot to worry about over the holidays. The last thing you need is to add car troubles to the list. A little forethought and preventative maintenance can give you peace of mind as you traverse the country’s highways. Take some time before your trip to visit the mechanic for an oil change, new wiper blades, and other maintenance. Additionally, make sure you know your way around your car’s dashboard lights. If something does go wrong on the road, knowing what the different warning lights mean can help you find and fix the problem quickly.

Don’t start tired

Life gets busy around the holidays, but you should still give yourself plenty of time to sleep on your trip. One of the best ways to make your long holiday drive more comfortable is to start the trip well-rested. Don’t stay up late packing the night before you leave. Similarly, don’t set off so early that you don’t get enough sleep. Falling asleep at the wheel is always bad, but it’s even more dangerous when you’re driving on popular travel days. You’ll also need to be completely alert and energized if you run into poor weather such as wintry winds, snow, and ice.

Find entertainment for everyone

If you’re traveling with a full car—especially if you’re traveling with kids—you want to find ways to keep everyone entertained over the long hours. Younger kids will enjoy movies and toys to keep them occupied as you travel. You can also get the whole family involved with classic road trip games. Music, audiobooks, and podcasts are also great for passing the time.

No matter how you stay entertained on the road, make sure you schedule time for regular breaks. The chance to walk around, stretch your legs, and enjoy some fresh air can help rejuvenate everyone and keep spirits high throughout the day.