School is back in session, and the weather is starting to turn, but this glorious Labor Day weekend allows many to get in one last road trip before the season’s end.

While one last road trip may sound like a great idea, your travel plans can quickly turn sour if you get caught in gridlock. With an improving economy and gorgeous weather, the traffic forecast isn’t looking pretty. In fact, AAA is predicting 35 million people will trek more than 50 miles from home during the Labor Day holiday, mostly on our nation’s roads.

So before you hit the road, read up on these fool-proof travel tips for smooth Labor Day travels:

1. Take the scenic route.

Look for scenic country routes and local roads that run parallel to highways and interstates. Although it may look like a longer drive on the map, you’ll save plenty of time by avoiding heavy traffic. Plus, you’ll have a much more scenic, easy-going and enjoyable trip away from all the frantic insanity of risky highway drivers.

2. Know your route BEFORE you leave.

Holiday travel is much easier when you know where you are going. Rather than relying on GPS and mobile phone apps to tell you the way, look at a good old-fashioned map and plan your journey. When driving through new territory, it’s common for electronic devices to fail, especially when cell phone service is spotty. Avoid the frustration and distraction all together by planning the drive carefully and paying attention to where you are.

3. Get your music ready.

Fill up your MP3 player, organize your CD’s, and program your radio stations before you leave. Fiddling with the radio can become a major distraction, so have your music ready to go before you hit the road.

4. Do a safety check.

When is the last time your changed your oil? If it’s been around 6 months, then it may be time for a change. Also, be sure to check your lights and turn signals, making sure that all the bulbs are in good working order. And, last but not least, make sure your tires are in good condition. Check for tread ware and use a tire gauge to ensure they are properly inflated. Properly inflated tires will save you money at the gas tank, and improperly inflated tires can drain your gas mileage, or worse, cause tire damage or a blowout.

5. Pack the snacks.

Bring drinks and snacks for the road to avoid unnecessary stops. Save your time and money for the destination, or at least for a meal at a good local restaurant, rather than wasting cash on gas station junk and fast food.

And remember, as always, to #DriveSafe!