How to Plan the Perfect Fourth of July Weekend

By eHow Holidays & Celebrations Editor

How to Plan the Perfect Fourth of July Weekend How to Plan the Perfect Fourth of July Weekend

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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.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Step1
Start thinking (preferably in May or early June) 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.
Step2
Buy a travel guide to the area you will be visiting and read it thoroughly.
Step3
Research the best restaurants, things to see and do, and recreational opportunities at your destination.
Step4
Plan ahead. 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.
Step5
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.
Step6
Consider toting along your own bike, Rollerblades or any other equipment to save rental fees.
Step7
Pack your suitcase or backpack a few days before you leave in case you need extra time to purchase any last-minute items.
Step8
Try to leave for your weekend destination as early as you can to avoid traffic. If possible, set out the night before.
Step9
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.

Comments

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Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 6/30/2006 With the 4th of July quickly approaching, millions of Americans will opt to have a pool party right in their own backyard. They will meticulously plan the food, purchase their favorite beverages, and select their favorite music. But, what happens when everything is in place: the grill is heating up and the drinks are chilled, and your pool is cloudy? BioGuard's Pool Pods to the rescue! A must-have for every backyard reveler, Pool Pods are BioGuard's newest and most convenient way to clean and sanitize your pool in just minutes! Your party is saved in one easy step and your backyard is now the perfect setting for your 4th of July bash.

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Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 A barbecue, some friends and a couple of cold drinks is the best way to say, "It's great to be American." Relax, sit back, and let the fireworks fly.

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Sometimes it's relaxing to stay in town on busy holiday weekends. A lot of people will probably clear out of your city, and places might be less crowded than usual. A little R&R at home can be a terrific way to spend some time off.

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eHow Article: How to Plan the Perfect Fourth of July Weekend

eHow Holidays & Celebrations Editor

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