Save big on holiday travel

IF YOU'RE DRIVING 

Traffic jams and cranky kids won't hinder your seasonal sojourn if you plan it right.

• Avoid drive-throughs. The food is often greasy and pricey and it isn't always fast―don't run into all those other drivers right off the highway exit during the holiday driving rush. Instead, fill a cooler with sandwiches and snacks before you leave. Or travel a little farther from the exit to find a grocery store.
•  Keep kids entertained. Fun in the car isn't always spelled D-V-D. Let your children pack backpacks of things for the ride, such as crayons, paper, books and games. Ban the perpetual "Are we there yet?" with a map highlighting your route so they can enjoy tracking your trip. You'll be the one asking how much farther till Grandma's house.
   

DON'T GET GOUGED ON GAS

Try these smart money-saving strategies to cope with high prices at the pump.

• Figure out a budget. Estimate the cost of gas for your trip on AAA's fuel cost calculator (fuelcostcalculator.com). Enter your start and end points and car information, and you'll find out how many gallons you'll use and the approximate fuel cost of your trip.
• Find bargains. Gas prices can differ greatly from one station to another. Plan your route on Web sites like GasBuddy.com and GasPriceWatch.com. They will show you the cheapest places to purchase gas along your trip.
• Back off the brake. When you're stuck in holiday traffic, don't tap the brake over and over―it wastes a lot of fuel.
• Lay off the bun warmer. A seat warmer also burns excess fuel. If you're traveling in cold areas, sit on blankets instead.
• Clear the roof. Piling gear on the roof increases air resistance, making your car burn more fuel. Pack your luggage in the trunk or backseat so your car won't have to work as hard. If you must use a rooftop carrier, make sure it's level, secured and as far back on the roof as safely possible.