A family road trip can be the source of cherished memories for years or even decades. Get everyone involved in the planning. Mapping out the route, choosing which must-see sights you will visit and deciding where to sleep each night is an integral part of the fun. Even the youngest family members can participate with an equal vote. Including them may help inspire cheerful cooperation and a sense of creative contribution to the adventure. Consider these points to help ensure a safe and successful trip.

Has your car or RV been serviced recently?

Whether taking the family auto or a recreational vehicle, you want to be confident it is in great shape before entrusting it with your family's safety. If it is due for a major service, schedule that well in advance of your departure. Even if your vehicle has had maintenance recently, check the tire pressure, fluid levels, hoses, filters, and windshield wipers before you set off.

Do you have a roadside assistance policy?

While traveling, nothing tops the security of knowing there is someone you can call 24/7 if you have a mechanical breakdown. A comprehensive roadside assistance policy also provides great peace of mind if you need help changing a flat tire, run out of gasoline or require a battery jump-start.

Other benefits you might find, depending on your coverage, include:

• Free maps and online trip-planning tools
• Towing to the nearest qualified repair facility
• Reimbursement for expenses you incur during a travel emergency or accident away from home, such as lodging, meals and rental cars

Reach out to your insurance agent before your road trip to help you get the most mileage out of your motor club policy benefits while traveling.

Have you checked the weather forecasts for your route?

Being aware of what to expect, weather-wise, on your journey helps you pack the right clothing and lets you avoid extreme conditions that could be unsafe. You can download an app specifically designed to check the weather on your route, or consult websites such as Safe Travel USA at night from your hotel.

What will the kids do for entertainment during the ride?

Getting kids to sit happily in a moving car for several hours can be challenging. It is important to have a variety of engaging activities to keep boredom at bay.

While playing games on tablets and streaming movies are great for distracting kids, you will need a newer-model car with built-in Wi-Fi and hotspot connectivity, a cell phone hotspot, or a standalone mobile hotspot device. Sometimes it is more fun to keep things simple and unplugged with options such as:

• Playing car karaoke with easy-to-use musical instruments like tambourines, ukuleles, and drumsticks
• Surprising kids with bags of new toys they never played with
• Setting up lap trays kids can use to color, draw, and write on
• Bringing along books from favorite authors not yet read

Have you allowed adequate time for frequent rest stops and quality sleep at night?

Scope out family-friendly interstate rest areas along your route to give everyone a chance to use the restroom and stretch their legs. Not only will the kids (and pets) appreciate the chance to run around and release energy, but the change in scenery is important for keeping your driver refreshed and alert.

Plan your evenings to ensure adults get at least seven hours of sleep. Driving while drowsy slows reaction time, affects decision-making and impairs your ability to pay attention. Getting enough sleep every night on the road is essential for being well-rested and safe behind the wheel.