Accessories

Sudden thunderstorms, road debris, oily asphalt, cone zones—all of these conditions can make for hazardous summer driving. The problems can become life-threatening when driving on bald or damaged tires.

So says Daniel Zielinski, vice president of communications at the Rubber Manufacturer’s Association.

“Tires are engineered to handle a lot of stress as long as they are maintained properly,” Zielinski said. “Once the integrity of components is damaged, tires ultimately will come apart.”

Vehicle lighting has come a long way since Carl Fisher manufactured acetylene gas headlights for automobiles 100 years ago (see related story). A new generation of lighting is making its way into vehicles.

Welcome to the world of LED lighting. The bright, energy-efficient bulbs used for Christmas decorations and kitchen appliances are lighting up headlights, taillights and interior lighting.

You've mapped out the journey and set aside all of the items needed to make your trip comfortable and fun. How do you pack all that stuff alongside your family?

"A lot of people don't realize you can put a trailer hitch on a small car," said John Bauer, founder of Rack N Road stores. "Then you can tow up to 2,000 pounds, and that's a couple of jet skis, canoes or bikes."

Drivers no longer need to buy a fancy GPS system to find the quickest route to a new restaurant or nearest rest stop off of Route 66. A smartphone and a reliable locator app will do the job.

Some of the most convenient applications are offered as free downloads. They make traveling convenient and safer no matter where you go.