If a road trip is on your summer agenda, you'll want to make sure your car and family are ready for the adventure.

Budgeting a little time before you head out could make for a much more pleasant journey.

Whether you're headed to the beach, the mountain, or to a getaway in the city, the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration wants to make sure your summer road trip is a safe one.

Takeing a few minutes before you set out could prevent a dangerous and costly mishap along the way.

Give your car a pre-trip checkup.

Inspect your tires, wiper baldes, fluid levels, cooling system, lights and air conditioning. You may need to make a trip to the mechanic but better now that during your journey.

Keep those precious passengers safe!

A long trip is a perfect chance to make sure car and booster seats are properly installed and still fit your child. Remember, all children 13 and under should ride in the back seat.

An emergency roadside kit is a road trip essential. Along with supplies to handle minor car emergencies, be sure to include a flashlight, first aid kit, nonperishable food, drinking water, and any medications you might need during your trip.

And don't forget a goold old fashioned map. Don't rely on your GPS to always work.

Be prepared and hopefully, the only nuisance you'll have to worry about is the kids saying, "Are we there yet?"

Happy travels.