Make a to-do list before the trip

Now that summer's officially here, the annual vacation migration begins. Over the next 10 weeks, millions of Americans will hit the highways or airways. Most have already made their travel plans, but in this day of overcrowded highways and overburdened airlines, carrying out those plans may prove another matter.

Regardless where you're headed or how you will get there, this pre-trip checklist will come in handy.

First: thoughts on securing the homefront while you're away.

The best home protection is always to have someone responsible stay there in your absence, especially if you have pets. That failing, security starts with making sure all doors and windows have stout locks. Leave a front door key with a trusted neighbor, friend or relative, along with copies of your itinerary, travel documents and contact information about where you can be reached in an emergency.

Stop mail, newspaper and other regular deliveries or arrange to have them picked up daily by your guardian neighbor. Also ask that neighbor to check inside the house from time to time, to water plants and change the positions of curtains or blinds.

If you have a security system, let the company know how long you'll be gone and who has a key. You can also ask the police to check on your home. Another simple security tactic is to use inexpensive electric timers to turn strategic lights, a radio or TV on and off each evening. Never leave a answering machine message that says you're away, only that you're unavailable to come to the phone. Ditto for hiding a door key outside your home.

If you'll be gone longer than a week, arrange to have your lawn mowed. Another tactic is to keep a car parked in your driveway and have it moved from time to time. Some people ask neighbors to leave a bag of garbage in front of their house on pickup days. Finally, if you own expensive jewelry or other items of really significant value, it might be prudent to store them in a bank safety deposit box or vault while you're away.

At the top of the list of road-worthy tips, make sure your vehicle is in tiptop shape before hitting the highway. Start by tending to your tires' pressure and tread. Proper inflation is essential for both optimal wear and fuel economy, particularly with high-speed driving on long family vacations. Also top off your fluids. Have your oil changed and check the coolant, brake fluid and washing fluid.

While under the hood, inspect the belts and hoses. How about your battery? Extreme heat and cold put additional strain on it. If yours is more than three years old, have it tested and replaced if necessary. Check your wiper blades. If both don't make full contact with the windshield, replace them.

Be smart packing the car. In the days before you leave, make a list of what you'll need during the trip. Pre-pack as much as possible instead of throwing everything in at the last minute. Don't bury items you'll have to access along the way. To improve your car's mileage, handling and comfort, don't cram the passenger compartment to the ceiling. Try to even the load from side to side and keep the heaviest items near to the center of the vehicle. Bringing a small cooler with bottled water, crackers, cereal bars and fruit will keep everyone hydrated and hunger-free. Avoid salty foods and sodas, which can leave you thirstier.

If you're taking a long trip, have an emergency kit with a flashlight, flares and a first-aid kit. Also, bring a well-charged cell phone and keep handy numbers for AAA or your emergency roadside assistance program.

Drowsy drivers are a leading cause of highway accidents. To avoid fatigue, get a good night's sleep before getting behind the wheel. During the trip, switch drivers every few hours and stop frequently. Regular bathroom breaks help prevent freeway fatigue. But be mindful of caffeine; that short-term buzz is often followed by a lull.

Other advice? Be nice. Use your turn signals. Let faster drivers pass. Don't tailgate.

Finally, consider taking picturesque side roads in lieu of interstates packed with traffic. Build in some time to stop at historical landmarks, soak up some natural beauty or enjoy a picnic. If life is really about the journey, you might as well have some fun on along the way.

Have a great trip.