How to Plan the Perfect Fourth of July Weekend

Fourth of July typically conjures up images of fireworks, hamburgers sizzling on the grill and homemade ice cream. But if you like to get out of town, you probably also think of traffic, overcrowded resorts and long lines. With a bit of extra planning, however, you can avoid some hassles and have a pleasant holiday.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sunglasses
• Maps
• Travel Guides
• Insect Repellents
• Sunburn Relief Medication
• Sunscreen
• Cameras
• Film
• Children's Bicycles
• Maps
• Cameras

1. Think about what you are looking for over the weekend. Is it a secluded wooded spot or a lake busy with water traffic? Either way, the earlier you decide, the better.

2. Buy a travel guide to the area you will be visiting and read it thoroughly.

3. Research the best restaurants, things to see and do, and recreational opportunities at your destination.

4. Buy tickets, make hotel reservations, secure a camping or picnic site, or anything else you think you'll need, early on. Even if you're planning only a day trip, organize your schedule ahead of time to avoid glitches.

5. Make a list of all of the items you'll need for your weekend, including a map, sunscreen, sunglasses, travel guide, camera and film. Give yourself plenty of time to buy anything you may be missing.

6. Consider toting along your own bike, Rollerblades or any other equipment to save rental fees.

7. Pack your suitcase or backpack a few days before you leave in case you need extra time to purchase any last-minute items.

8. Try to leave for your weekend destination as early as you can to avoid traffic. If possible, set out the night before.

9. Time your return home as early as possible, too, to avoid the holiday weekend traffic crunch.

Tips & Warnings

• On holiday weekends, the worst traffic is generally on Friday night and Sunday night, or Monday night, if it's a three-day weekend.
• Ask friends for their weekend getaway recommendations.
• Take your own fireworks if they're legal in the area you'll be visiting.
• When you leave, be sure any pets left at home are secure - they could be frightened by fireworks.
• Be sure to have a neighbor pick up your newspaper and mail if you are away for more than a day or so.

[goldiec]

on 7/5/2009 Thanks for the tips on having the perfect 4th of July 5*

[ynohtna]

on 7/4/2009 Great article and some great advice thanks!

[alicf]

on 7/1/2009 Great advice. I'm so excited for this 4th of July. So much fun! :)

[omghow]

on 6/30/2009 Looking forward to spending time with family on four of July. Thanks for sharing.

[mysteriousmuse]

on 6/30/2009 Great tips for having a wonderful 4th. I'm going to be using some of these for my own celebration this year! Thanks, and great job! 5*****