Travel experts predict a strong demand on traffic, a good majority will pack up the family vehicle and drive to their destination to save money.

With the July 4th holiday weekend around the corner, and many are planning a summer travel, there are a few things you need to know before we hit the road.

The most important tip is to get your motor oil changed, this is the “life blood” of your engine, especially as temperatures warm up. Always follow your owner’s manual for proper motor oil types and intervals. Failing to do so will leave you with a very large mechanic bill.

I recommend choosing Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic motor oils or Shell Rotella engine oils, which are key to making sure your vehicle is road trip ready.

For long road trips in particular, I recommend choosing a full synthetic motor oil because it provides better wear protection, better fuel economy and excellent extreme temperature performance. Pennzoil Platinumfull synthetic motor oils are made from natural gas and give you unbeatable engine protection.

If you are hauling a boat or trailer, Shell Rotella offers hardworking engine oils for more extreme conditions which are designed to protect your engine while driving with a heavy load, towing, stop and go traffic and extensive idling.

We are all looking for great deals, especially with car maintenance. Shell and Pep Boys are partnering to help drivers make up for all the miles that they have missed over the past few months. Throughout July and August, you can take 30% off any Pennzoil Oil Change Service or $30 off a Rotella Oil Change Service so there’s an offer whether you need a long-overdue oil change for the family car or to get your RV road ready.

With AAA predicting vacationers will gravitate to road trips this summer, Pep Boys also has a $30 Summer Prep Package which includes a check of your tires, alignment, brakes, AC, cooling system and battery; replacement of your windshield wipers and the addition of Shell’s one-step fuel system cleaner. In case something unexpected happens along the way, like a flat tire, Pep Boys will also give you a free towing voucher!

Pep Boys has over 1,000 locations across the country that warranty their work and every shop has ASE-certified technicians ready to deliver on their promise: “We Go Further to Help You Go Farther!”

We all know that tires are critical to getting you to your destination.

• Be proactive and check the pressure once a month. Match the tire pressure with the sticker inside your driver’s door.
• Check your tires tread depth during your monthly pressure check.
• When getting your motor oil changed: Have them rotate your tires while you’re there.

When it’s time to replace your tires, look for an All-Season Grand Touring Tire capable of providing year-round traction. I’m really impressed with the Hercules Roadtour 855 tire, known as the Strong Silent Type. Hercules Tires has been around for over 65 years and have made this tire to fit your sedan, crossover and minivan.

One key factor to consider is this tire has up to an 85,000-mile warranty, road hazard coverage, and 45-day trial that come standard with this tire at no additional charge. The Hercules Roadtour 855 is ideal for quality and value, everyday use, smooth quiet ride, safety focused, demand dependability regardless of the season. Hercules Tires has over 3500 retail locations across the US and Canada.

Remember to carry an emergency kit and bring your own food to keep costs down. Most of all, enjoy your summer and travel safely.

Lauren Fix, The Car Coach® is a nationally recognized automotive expert, media guest, journalist, author, keynote speaker and television host. Post your comments on Twitter: @LaurenFix or on her Facebook Page.