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By Hannah C. Bealer, Staff Writer Updated 3:56 PM Thursday, June 30, 2011

With gas costing nearly $1 more than it did last year and airfare charges up 11 percent, AAA is predicting a slight decrease in travel this weekend.

About 39 million people will travel at least 50 miles from home over the Independence Day weekend, a 2.5 percent decrease from the 40 million trips in 2010.

Even with gas prices in the Dayton area averaging $3.28, which is significantly less than June’s national average of $3.74, AAA isn’t expecting a huge increase in travelers.

But for individuals and families that are planning to hit the road this weekend, Micki Dudas, director of travel for the Miami Valley’s AAA branch, offered a few travel tips.

Take the car in  for a checkup

“Check out your vehicle,” Dudas said. “Make sure it’s safe and maintained. Checking the tires and fluids usually minimizes any distress travelers might have while on vacation.”

Dudas said giving vehicles proper and professional inspection is often put on hold due to expenses.

“But it’s very important,” she said. “Make sure your battery is charged, and you have jumper cables.”

Pack the essentials

Food and snacks are a must. If children are involved, make sure they have food that’s easy for them to digest. It will also cut out restaurant stops and save a bit of money.

Due to the summer heat, Dudas said travelers should pack plenty of water.

She also suggested to keep a first-aid kit handy, as well as an emergency travel kit, flash lights and batteries, a fully-charged cell phone, and even a gas gift card for any scenario where the traveler might run out of cash and needs a backup.

Depart early and  take off work

“We encourage people to take advantage of early morning departures,” Dudas said.

“The road is less traveled, and it minimizes traffic delays,” she said. In the long run, this approach will help save on fuel and get a head start on the trip, Dudas added.

“You won’t be idling on the highway.”

Make frequent stops

Although many parents choose to distract and amuse their children with built-in television sets and electronic toys, Dudas says making frequent stops is not only beneficial for children, but for the entire family.

Map out a route

For safety reasons, solo travelers should notify family and friends of their expected route.

Google Maps, MapQuest and any Global Positioning System help travelers find their shortest route and give them direct directions to their destination.

Dudas suggested AAA TripTik, a website and mobile application available for both AAA members and nonmembers.

“It’s a quality resource. It also has road construction updates,” she said, noting the application will further help travelers avoid any unnecessary stops.

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2295 or hbealer@DaytonDailyNews.com.

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