Summer vacations 2015: The vacationer's 5 commandments, presented by CAA-Quebec

QUEBEC CITY, July 16, 2015 /CNW Telbec/ - With summer vacations well under way for many Quebecers, CAA-Quebec reminds the public that proper planning is important to ensure a successful trip and minimize sources of stress. To make those preparations easier, the organization recently posted its "vacationer's 5 commandments," as a comprehensive list of tips, accessible to everyone!

The resource page groups together useful advice on the following topics:

1. The right addresses and the right route
2. Travel insurance
3. Mechanical inspection
4. Battery check
5. Smart social media behaviour

A helping hand… so you won't forget anything!
Besides being practical, the tips also make a great checklist. For example, many motorists don't automatically think to check the condition of their battery in summer: most know that winter can be taxing for this vital vehicle component, but many don't realize that summer is just as bad, if not worse! "Once you understand that battery wear and damage occurs 33% faster in the intense heat of summer, it's easy to see how important it is to make sure it's in good condition. So have your battery checked, along with the charging system, before going on that vacation road trip," advises Sophie Gagnon, CAA-Quebec's Vice President, Communications and Public Affairs.

In addition, far too few people are aware that if a child is travelling outside the country with only one parent, that parent should be carrying a letter of consent, preferably one certified by a commissioner for oaths, a notary or a lawyer. "It can be a long process, depending on the family situation, so it has to be started fairly early. But it's the best way to avoid potential headaches at a border crossing," Ms. Gagnon explains.

Are you ready to go?
CAA-Quebec's latest exclusive survey left no doubt: fully 73% of Quebecers plan to go on holiday this summer. And while some recommended smart practices like having a balanced vacation budget and locking doors and windows before leaving may seem obvious, other precautions are less so: being discreet on social networks about one's absence from home, say, or asking a neighbour to keep an eye on your house and park their car in your driveway.

Lastly, given that a majority of vacationers surveyed will be travelling within North America and using their car as their main means of transportation (68% in this year's survey), these tips could well be worth their weight in gold. "Our experts have thought of everything! They've even complemented their advice with comprehensive TripTik route planners for five top summer vacation destinations. Remember: taking the time to properly plan your travels can pay off!" Ms. Gagnon concludes.

About CAA-Quebec
CAA-Quebec, a not-for-profit organization founded in 1904, provides automotive, travel, residential and financial services and privileges to its 1.2 million members.

SOURCE CAA-Québec

Montreal : Anne-Sophie Hamel, Communications Advisor and Spokesperson, 514 861-7111, ext. 5478, Cell.: 514 717-4040, [email protected]