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They say the most expensive drive you'll ever take in your car is the one from the dealership to your house, as it instantly depreciates by 10 percent. Even after that, your vehicle's value will continue to drop throughout its lifetime because of wear and tear but also due to new technologies found on more recent cars. That doesn't mean you can't delay that depreciation as much as possible, though. These tips will keep your car valuable until the moment you're ready to sell it. 1. Get Regular Check-Ups A vehicle's mechanical problems usually tend to start from a minor issue which develops over time and spreads to other components. For that reason, getting regular checkups is a simple and relatively inexpensive way of keeping your car in top shape for years. When done in due time, simple repairs and regular oil changes add many years to a car's life. Also, it's quite possible that a potential buyer knows all this, so keeping records of all the checkups will increase the car's potential price, as you'll have proof it's been properly taken care of. more 2. Regularly Clean and Wax your Car The first thing a new buyer sees is the car's exterior, so regularly washing and waxing it will keep it looking shiny and new. Waxing your car a few times every year will keep it protected from small scratches and against the paint losing its color, while washing the dirt will prevent any accumulation of mud that may lead to rust, especially around the wheels. You can do both of these yourself, but for a much better job, it would be best to leave it to professionals, as it's not very expensive. The car's interior is at least as important as the exterior and needs to be kept clean. Unlike the exterior, the main factor in interior deterioration is actually you and the way you treat your vehicle's cabin. Avoid smoking and eating in the car, because in the long run a spill or small burns in the upholstery are pretty much inevitable. It's best to have your car professionally detailed once or twice every year to keep it looking and smelling great. 3. Drive your Car Properly You can have regular checkups and wash your car every day, but none of these will mean much if your style of driving puts more strain on the car than it should. Any vehicle is engineered to sustain occasional moments of aggressive use, such as a hard brake or a fast corner once in a while, but if your style of driving resembles what goes on at a racetrack more than a public road, your car will definitely suffer. You'll also be more exposed to dents and scratches, as well as increasing the risk of a serious accident. Maintaining your vehicle's value is not something that's hard to do, but it implies frequent care and maintenance. However, when the time comes for you to sell it, all the time and care you have invested in it will pay off. Image via Pixabay.com

Late spring is that magical time of year when nature is fully reborn after the long and cold winter. One of the best ways to experience the sights, sounds, and aromas of the season is by taking your friends or family on a hiking trip. Those living in or around Fort Smith, Arkansas, are lucky to have a wide variety of hiking spots to choose from. Here are some of the most interesting. 1. H.E. Flanagan Prairie Natural Area The H.E. Flanagan Prairie Natural Area is less than 30 miles east of Fort Smith, and it's the ideal natural spot for a late spring hike. Part of the Cherokee Prairie Complex, which used to occupy about 135,000 acres of Arkansas Valley's western portion but now covers 534 acres, this tallgrass prairie's charm is its wild and natural feel. There are no designated trails, but hiking through the tall grass and blazing star flowers is a more immersive experience than walking down a clear path. more 2. Wells Lake Trail If you don't have the time or the inclination to travel long distances in order to find the perfect hiking spot, Wells Lake Trail is the perfect solution, as it's very close to downtown Fort Smith. As its name suggests, the 7-mile hiking trail goes around Wells Lake, offering breathtaking views as well as fishing opportunities for those looking to set up camp after a hike. Most of the trail is paved, making it a good hiking spot for people with disabilities. While you're there, you shouldn't miss the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center 's fascinating exhibits. 3. Warren Hollow Trail Another great hiking trail located only minutes away from Fort Smith, the Warren Hollow Trail is the ideal hike for those who don't have much time but need the energy boost that only nature can provide. The trail is only 0.6 miles long, meaning that a round trip will give you 1.2 miles of mildly challenging woodland trails. It first goes downhill and then uphill, with a basketball court and a group cabin at the end. Overall, it's a short and somewhat easy hike, with great lake views along the way. 4. White Rock Rim Trail If amazing views are what you're after, White Rock Rim Trail is the ideal late-spring hike for you. Located about an hour away from Fort Smith, on White Rock Mountain in the Ozark National Forest, this 1.6-mile hike goes around the top of the mountain, offering unique panoramic views along the way. It's a moderately difficult trail with less than 100 feet of net elevation change. There are, however, many dangerous bluffs and no guardrails, making it a less than ideal hiking spot for children. Spring is the time of year when all nature comes back to life, and by the time we reach late May and early June, everything is in full bloom. These few weeks of nature at its peak should not be missed. Any of these hiking trails will make you forget all about concrete and glass, enabling you to focus on what really matters in life. Image via Flickr by miketnorton

One of the best things about the USA being a melting pot of cultures is the wonderful variety of available cuisine. Some of the most delicious dishes come from our southern neighbors, as Mexican food is hugely popular — for good reasons. Residents of Fort Smith, Arkansas, definitely know that, as they have some amazing Mexican restaurants. Here are some of them. 1. El Zarape If you're looking for a place that serves authentic Mexican cuisine in a friendly and familiar atmosphere, this may be the best spot in the area. The staff is not just hard-working but also very eager to make everyone feel right at home. Everything on the menu looks and tastes amazing, from a bowl of simple tortilla soup to unique dishes such as El Zarape's Special Fajitas. A kids' menu is also available, but also a secret menu with different tacos and burritos. more 2. Miguel's Taqueria Mexican cuisine is special in many ways, especially when it's authentic, created by people who grew up cooking these dishes with recipes that have been passed down through generations. For this reason, restaurants such as Miguel's Taqueria are very popular, as they offer authentic Mexican food that's cooked exactly how it was meant to be. Located on 1719 Rogers Avenue, it's one of the best places in town to get Mexican tacos as well as tamales, fajitas, enchiladas, tortas, and many more amazing dishes. 3. Zapata's Mexican Grill Eating delicious Mexican food amid a lovely decor and enjoying excellent service is what every food lover should expect when visiting Zapata's Mexican Grill. Everything on the menu tastes incredible, from tacos and fajitas to chimichangas and quesos. If you don't have anything important to do afterward, you should feel free to indulge yourself with the expertly made spicy margaritas. 4. La Huerta Grill Few places can match the authentic feeling of a Mexican dining experience quite like La Huerta, especially during the summer. The large outdoor area features patio seating and live music on weekends to help everyone get in the mood for a fiesta. The fajitas and Baja tacos are absolutely delicious here, but so is everything else on the menu. This combination of a lively outdoor atmosphere and incredible food makes this place an ideal venue for a party. 5. Las Americas Too Las Americas Too celebrates not only Mexican food but also Latino cuisine in general. Although classics such as tacos, fajitas, and enchiladas are both authentic and very tasty, visitors should thoroughly scan the menu to see special Nicaraguan and Salvadorian dishes. A great way to get acquainted with those styles of cuisine is by ordering the Mercedes Favorites, named after the place's owner, which consists of a sampling plate with various Central American foods that are sure to delight your taste buds. Authentic Mexican restaurants are a treasure for any community, as they guarantee both delicious food and a great atmosphere. Any name on this list definitely ticks these two boxes, but they all have their own surprises that can only be discovered by paying them a visit. Image via Flickr by wnhsl

Getting your driver's license and having your first car are major milestones in your life as a teen. Getting the right car, however, is an important task, and the choice can either simplify or complicate a teen's life. Finding the right used model for a teen driver depends on his or her needs, but choosing any of these vehicles would definitely be a good idea. Toyota RAV4 Given the fact that the thing a teen driver lacks most is experience, a sturdy SUV might be the ideal choice. The Toyota RAV 4 received a facelift in 2016, so any used model sold after that time will look like the latest version. All models come with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine capable of producing 176 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque. The horsepower isn't too much for a new driver to handle, but it's enough to get you out of tight spots and make the SUV seem agile. more The handling and steering feel great and are very precise, making the RAV4 easy to handle, even for an inexperienced driver. It's also a very comfortable car, mostly because of the large cabin and soft seats. Active safety systems such as pre-collision system, lane departure alert, and intelligent high beam will help the driver keep the vehicle out of harm's way. Kia Soul EV Since teen drivers don't usually go on very long drives, an electric vehicle is definitely a great choice. The combination of a 109-horsepower electric motor and a 27-kWh battery in the KIA Soul EV offers an estimated 93 miles of driving range, which should be more than enough for any teen's daily routine. It also spares teens from spending allowance money on gasoline. Its boxy shape makes it roomy enough to carry things around, while the Soul also has enough features to be fun enough for a teen. Most used Kia Soul vehicles on the market are equipped with the Plus trim, which features front and rear parking sensors, 17-inch alloy wheels, smartphone connectivity, and a rearview camera, among many other features. You'll also get many active safety systems to assist the new driver. Hyundai Accent Safe SUVs and economic electric cars are definitely good choices for a teen driver, but another good choice is a simple compact and inexpensive car. Simple because it makes it easier for a new driver to grasp the fundamentals of driving, compact because it's easier to maneuver, and inexpensive because a new driver will most likely scratch and dent the car, at the very least. The Hyundai Accent ticks all these boxes, making it a great first car. Its interior is quiet and comfortable, with excellent outside noise cancellation. Just because it's relatively inexpensive doesn't mean the Accent compromised on safety, with features such as electronic stability control and a smart air-bag system. Having your first car is an experience you're not likely to forget any time soon. Any of these three cars would be a good choice for any teen, as they check off all the right boxes when it comes to quality, comfort, and safety. Image via Flickr by theKCB

Fort Smith is home to a bustling dining scene which offers something for every occasion. Whether you're looking for a romantic fine dining experience or a quick grab-and-go dinner after a long day at work, you're going to find what you need in Fort Smith. If you're looking for unique dining options, check out these must-see restaurants. 21 West End This fine dining establishment is where you'll want to be if you're planning a romantic evening or special dinner of any kind. The small space is eclectic yet sophisticated, perfect for a quiet evening. If you plan on dining here, make sure you have room for appetizers and an entree. more Start your meal off with their incredible artichoke dip, which consists of a warm cream cheese base with parmesan cheese served with wonton chips. If you're more of an adventurous eater, give the chef's cheese board a try. It includes a unique selection of fresh cheese, and the available cheeses change frequently. The Chicken Cordon Bleu Ravioli is a twist on this classic cheesy, salty chicken dish. Entrees at 21 West End are truly a cut above. You can order small plates, which are almost like tapas, or a full-size dish. Some of these tasty bites include bacon-wrapped quail, derby cheese with sage, blackened tuna, and house-made burrata. The Citron Duck is truly marvelous. It features a crispy duck breast with a citrus cream dressing. Seafood fanatics will want to give the seafood stuffed manicotti a try. This pasta dish is loaded with all your seafood favorites such as shrimp, scallops, and crab. Anthony's Italian Restaurant This restaurant has a family-friendly and casual atmosphere. You can always count on being treated like family when you visit Anthony's. If you're in the mood for pasta or other Italian favorites, there's no better place to be in all of Arkansas. Be sure to bring your appetite, as Anthony's dishes up plentiful portions of their perfectly prepared dishes. The chicken parmesan with a side of pasta Alfredo is rich, creamy, and flavorful. For a simpler approach, order the linguine with homemade pasta sauce. Anthony's incredible pasta sauce will have you coming back for more in no time. The ravioli are large, stuffed to perfection, and delicious. You can't go wrong with any of the tantalizing entrees at this local favorite. Art's BBQ & Burgers Sometimes you just need to fill up on American-style comfort food. Your taste buds are in for a treat when you stop for a bite to eat at Art's BBQ & Burgers. What Art's lacks in fine dining flair, they make up for with great tasting food. This is another casual restaurant that makes for a great night out with the family. Art's specializes in smoked BBQ and burgers. Everything on the menu is cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. Grabbing a bite to eat in Fort Smith might be one of the hardest things you ever have to do. Not because of a lack of selection, but because of an abundance of amazing choices. We think you should try all three restaurants on our list! Image via Flickr by SGPhotography77

Last winter, the Geneva Auto Show wrapped up and we got to see a glimpse of what the vehicles of tomorrow will look like. Of course, there were some exciting announcements and dramatic reveals. If you're looking to catch up on the latest Geneva Auto Show news, you've come to the right place. Here are some of the most exciting models announced at the show. Aston Martin Vanquish - Concept Car Imagine a car with such smooth curves that light reflects off it in such a way that the car almost blends in with its surroundings. Of course, not in such a way where someone couldn't see it, but enough to make you say "wow!" Well, Aston Martin pictured it and presented the concept car at this year's convention. more This Vanquish supercar features a mid-engine V-6, but no horsepower or torque information has been released yet; however, based on Aston Martin's statements, they'll be aiming for speeds of 200 mph or more. Bugatti Voiture Noire Another showstopper at the Geneva Auto Show was the Bugatti Voiture Noire, a custom-built hypercar with a price tag of over 12 million dollars. It has that classic Bugatti look, with a pitch black paint job and matching accents. Blink and you might miss it. If you've ever wanted to own the batmobile, this might be the next best thing. Who are we kidding? It's probably a step up from the batmobile. Some specs have been released for the head-turning Bugatti Voiture Noire. It includes an eight-liter W16 engine with an unreal output of 1480 bhp and 1180 pound-feet of torque. Unfortunately, no 0-60 times have been released yet. Audi Q4 e-Tron If the last two vehicles on our list were a bit out of your price range, the Audio Q4 electronic crossover-style SUV may land a little closer to home. Audi announced that is was entering the electric vehicle market with an all-new look. While it won't be the most affordable electric vehicle on the market, but it was announced to be under $100,000. McLaren Grand Tourer While this car wasn't featured at the show specifically, there was a lot of talk about it. The CEO of McClaren mentioned they were looking to break new ground in the class and bring a lot of new technology to the table. Their goal with this release is to make it the fastest and most agile GT on the market. Other Noteworthy Models As you can expect, there were plenty of models not mentioned in the list above. Honorable mentions include the BMW X7, and it was also announced that the 7 series would be undergoing some big changes. The Toyata brought it's redefined Supra to the auto show to help market its release. Lastly, Suburu was there with its new e-boxer hybrid electric vehicle.  There was a lot to take in at this year's Geneva Auto Show. However, beyond the veil of incredible supercars and luxury models, one thing was vividly clear. Electric and hybrid vehicles are just getting started, and we're in for a big jump in available options in the coming years. Image via Flickr by Alexandre Prevot

Every year, the Old Fort Days Rodeo brings in professional bull riders and cowboys from across the globe to compete for the largest rodeo prize in the state. If you're a fan of the sport, or simply want to try something new, you're sure to have an incredible time at the Old Fort Days Rodeo, which has been held annually since 1933. Here's a quick look at all of the amazing attractions at this year's event. History of the Old Fort Days Rodeo This rodeo has been operating for over 80 years and has become a tradition among locals and rodeo fans across the state. Over the years, the rodeo has grown significantly, adding a first-class arena, extra events, and more. Today, the Old Fort Days Rodeo attracts globally recognized bull riders thanks to its large prize pool. more Exciting Events at the Old Fort Days Rodeo There are eight awesome events to watch when you attend the rodeo. Be sure to arrive early and check the schedule to most effectively plan your day. Bareback bronc riding is always exciting and unpredictable. With no saddle and nothing but a simple handle to hang on to, riders must stay on for at least eight seconds using only one hand. Scores range from 0-50. The rider and horse each receive a score, then the two are added together and the rider with the highest total score wins. There is also a saddleback bronc riding event which uses a saddle designed specifically for competition. Outside of the addition of the saddle, the rules and scoring are the same. In steer wrestling, two cowboys team up to wrestle a steer to the ground. One rider runs parallel to the steer, ensuring it runs in a straight line. The other rider must ride up to the side of the bull, drop from their horse, and wrestle the bull to the ground. Team roping also involves two riders and a steer. The goal is to toss a loop of rope around the steer's hind legs to bring it down, then tie it up. A professional pair of cowboys can complete this task in just four to 12 seconds, a mind-numbing feat you have to see to believe. There are time penalties for only roping one leg or breaking barriers. Tiedown roping involves a calf and a single rider. The calf is released from a spring-loaded gate and gets a 28-foot head start. The rider must rope the calf, bring it to the ground, and tie it down. The fastest time wins. The Main Event Of course, bull riding is the event which draws the biggest crowds. Similar to bronc riding, the goal is to remain atop the bull for eight seconds. Judges watch for form and efficiency to help determine a winner. The difficulty of the bull's behavior is also factored into the scoring process. Spending a day at the rodeo is an exciting way to have some fun. If you're a fan of cowboys and rodeos there's no better way to have fun this June. Image via Flickr by andrusdevelopment

If you are thinking about purchasing a used car, then there are some important factors to take into consideration ahead of time to avoid buying a lemon. Check out this list of things to help you with your next used car purchase to ensure you get the right car to fit your needs. 1. Figuring Out Your Budget Calculating how much you can spend on a vehicle is an important part of the budgeting equation but not the only piece. In addition to the cost of the vehicle, you also need to figure in all the ancillary costs associated with it such as financing costs, prospective fuel and maintenance costs, insurance and registration, and a decent road-side assistance program. more Another key (but often missed) calculation is projected costs for major repairs down the road. Used cars cost less because they already have wear and tear associated with them, and the amount of that wear and tear can help determine how long before something major breaks. The key is to find the right balance between the cost of the car and how much you will be paying later on. 2. Build a Target List of Used Cars Once you have a good handle on how much you can spend, the next step is figuring out which used car will fit best into that price range. As a general rule, the more money you have to spend, the more option you will have in front of you, but that isn't necessarily always the case. Use sites like Edmunds and Cars.com to search through large inventories of used cars to find the one that best fits you. The money is only part of the equation for finding the right car. The other part is what you want out of your next purchase. Are you looking for a good winter car, a stylish sedan, an SUV with lots of cargo space, or something else? The last thing you want is to be stuck in a multi-year payment plan on a vehicle you don't want. 3. Check the Vehicle History Report Once you have found the car you really want, the next step is to check its history. If you are purchasing through a dealership then they will provide the report for you, but if you are buying from a private seller then you will need to go online and get one yourself. This is an important step and should not be overlooked. If your prospective car has been in an accident, fire, been salvaged, or stolen, then it will show up in the report. This is a great way to protect yourself from purchasing a defective vehicle that will end up failing and costing you a lot of money. With these tips in hand, you will be in-the-know when going to purchase a used car and therefore able to make an informed purchase. Remember to go through a reputable dealer when making your next used car purchase and good luck to you. Image via Pixabay.com

Fort Smith, Arkansas, is a treasure trove of historical treasures that make for a great day of exploration. Here are some places to check out in the Fort Smith area where you can learn a bit about the history of the area. Fort Smith National Historic Site The city's namesake is a famous frontier fort that was originally established on Christmas day in 1817 and served as an outpost for almost 80 years until 1896. In that time, the fort served as a frontline position against the Native American tribes that were ultimately relocated during the Trail of Tears, a base of operations during the Civil War, and ultimately as home to a branch of the Federal Court for the Western District of Arkansas. more There is a rich history here replete with tales of valor, epic battles, justice, and tragedy. Visitors can tour the fort, including the soldier's barracks, jails, and the old courthouse. There are all sorts of artifacts on display as well as stories written down by the people who lived an incredible life on the frontier plains of a much younger United States. For more information on the Fort Smith National Historic Site, visit their website or give them a call at 479-783-3961. Fort Smith Trolley Museum In 1985, after five years of restoration on original trolley cars that had been purchased through private sales, the Fort Smith Trolley Museum opened its doors to the public. They were still a work in progress at the time and those early visitors were treated to seeing the 100 South Fourth Street and 65 South Third Street locations built up and restored as they examined the 1920s era trolley cars. Today the cars are fully restored and visitors can explore the history of the early 20th-century trolley cars and even take a ride on them. There are all sorts of artifacts on hand and special events held throughout the year. For more information on the Fort Smith Trolley Car Museum, you can either check out their website or give them a call at 479-783-0205. Trail of Tears National Historic Trail Remember and commemorate the tragic struggle of the Cherokee people by retracing the footsteps of their forced relocation from their homelands in Georgia and Alabama to their destination in the Indian Territories (now Oklahoma). There are 25 sites where you can stop to learn about the history of injustice inflicted upon the Cherokee and also their strength of will to survive. The Trail of Tears National Historic Trail runs through the states of Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Tennessee. For more information on the trail, visit the website or call 505-988-6098. The Fort Smith area has a lot of history and luckily there are great places where you can go to learn some new things. If you enjoy learning about the past, then make sure to check out the places on this list to learn about the area's rich history. Image via Flickr by adam*b

With summer just around the corner, now is the time to start getting your car ready to handle the hot days ahead. Here are some tips to get your car summer-ized to avoid any unfortunate breakdowns. 1. Take Care of Your Tires Winter can be extremely rough on tires. Not only is there the everyday wear and tear from driving on the road, but all those times spinning out in icy driveways and parking lots add an extra toll. Now that the snow is melting and the weather is warming, it's time to make sure your tires are still in good working condition. more Examine the sidewalls and tread for damage and make sure tread depth is still good. An easy trick for checking tread depth is to take a penny and stick it into the tread groove upside down with Lincoln's head facing you. If you can see the ex-president's entire head, then the tire needs replacing. 2. Check Fluid Levels Odds are that unless you had your car serviced over the winter, the fluid levels have probably not been checked. It's understandable given all the snow and freezing weather, but now that it's getting nice out, you need to make sure they are good. Specifically, the engine oil, coolant, power steering, and transmission fluid all need to be checked and topped off if necessary. Depending on how long it has been, it may be time to have your fluids changed out. Specific mileage requirements vary by manufacturer, so consult the owner's manual for specifics. 3. Get a Car Wash This is something that should have been done at least a few times during the winter. Salt and grime have a way of getting into every nook and cranny of your car and will destroy the finish over time. Now that winter is over, give your car a good washing and pay extra attention to the undercarriage. Some people really enjoy washing their own car but in this case, it is probably better to go to the car wash. The high-pressure water jets will be able to get all those tough to reach spots and remove any corrosive salt. 4. Check the Battery The freezing cold of winter can play havoc with your car's battery. A car battery uses lead plates suspended in a water-diluted acid bath and extremely low temperatures can weaken the battery's ability to hold a charge. In addition to the cold, normal wear can cause water to leak out of the battery which will also weaken its ability to crank the engine. You can have the battery refilled if the levels are low. Make sure to perform a physical inspection of the battery first for any signs of major damage. Some batteries are sealed and won't be refillable. In these cases, your only option is to replace the worn out battery. With these tips, you can keep your car in good working shape through the hot summer months. Taking these precautions will ensure you avoid costly breakdowns and time wasted waiting on a tow truck. Image via Flickr by everycar_listed_photos

Fort Smith is the second biggest city in Arkansas and located near a bunch of different attractions that are perfect for a day trip get-a-way. Check out some of these destinations to get an idea of what the surrounding area has to offer. 1. Hot Springs National Park Nicknamed "The American Spa," for its pools of hot spring water, Hot Springs National Park is located in central Arkansas adjacent to the city of Hot Springs. This is the oldest park managed by the National Park System and features a ton of things to do. Besides all the beautiful trails, trees, streams, and hills of the park, some of the things that Hot Springs National Park has to offer include spas and baths, a museum, sporting opportunities, and live events. There are also restaurants featuring cuisine from around the world. more For more information on everything Hot Springs National Park has to offer, either check out their website or give them a call at (800) SPA-CITY. 2. Ouachita River If you are looking for a slow, lazy river that you can quietly float on while basking in the summer sun, then the Ouachita River is the place for you. At over 600 miles long, the river flows begins at Mena and runs all the way down to Louisiana. Besides lazily floating away your day, there is great fishing, camping, trails, and general outdoor fun. The Ouachita River is open all year long. 3. Arkansas Wine Trail Catch a ride and visit the amazing wineries on the Arkansas Wine Trail. The trail runs from Tontitown down to Big Rock Township and comprises seven different wineries where you can try out tasty samples, get a bite to eat, and purchase a bottle or two for home. Between each of the stops is beautiful countryside to see on this 4-hour tour. Here is an itinerary you can use as a guide. 4. Eureka Springs Eureka Springs is an amazing little tourist town that has lots of attractions, shops, and restaurants. Visitors can check out the unique buildings like the Thorncrown Chapel, the 1886 Crescent Hotel, and the famous Quilt Shop. There is something unique and quirky around every corner of this fun little town and the rich history and delicious restaurants will keep visitors coming back. 5. Lake Greeson This underrated lake is found near Murfreesboro and is a great place to take off to for a day of relaxation. Swimming, boating, kayaking, and sunbathing are all on the menu at Lake Greeson but finding a spot can be difficult on the weekends due to its popularity, so try to head there in the middle of the week if you can. With all the places to take a daycation at around Fort Smith, you can literally do something new every weekend if you want to. Make sure you check out one of these great destinations the next time you are planning to get out of town for the day. Image via Flickr by Ken Lund

When it's time to shop for a new ride, don't limit the search to the new side of the dealership, even if you plan to drive the car for a long time. The average new automobile will be worth only about 35 percent of the purchase price after five years. Therefore, it's smart to avoid the depreciation hit by finding a great pre-owned car or truck that suits your needs. Do your homework though as some models hold their value better than others. Check out these options for some vehicles that retain their value and have a long useful life. Trucks and SUVs If you think you may be ready to trade in the car in a few years, depreciation should be a primary concern for you. In that case, consider a truck or a sport utility vehicle (SUV) instead of a car. Kelley Blue Book gives an annual award for Best Residual Value to vehicles that retain a higher percentage of their value after five years. For the 2018 model year, nine of the 10 models on the list are either trucks or SUVs. One example is the 2018 Toyota Tacoma full-size truck. It is expected to retain more than 60 percent of the original sales price by 2022. more KBB Best Overall Brand For 2019, Toyota vehicles took home the top three spots in the Kelley Blue Book Best Resale Value Awards. The Tacoma, the Tundra and the 4Runner all demonstrate the ability to bring a solid price when you sell or trade them in. As if that's not enough to inspire confidence, Toyota also took first prize in three of the vehicle categories evaluated. The 2019 Highlander won the category of 3-Row Mid-Size SUV/Crossover. The 2019 Toyota Tacoma emerged as the winner in Mid-Size Pickup Trucks, and the 2019 Tundra led the pack of Full-Size Pickup Trucks. With all these accolades, it's obvious why Toyota is the Best Overall Brand in the survey for 2019. Edmunds Choice for Best Retained Value For 2018, Edmunds also published a list of vehicles to consider if you're looking for something that holds its value over time. In the category of Trucks and Vans, Edmunds agreed with Kelley Blue Book and gave the highest honors to the 2018 Tacoma and Tundra. For Midsize SUVs, the 4Runner was the top pick. Honda also did well in the Edmunds study, taking home top awards for the CR-V in the Compact SUV category and the Civic in the Compact Car category. The Honda Accord won in the category of Midsize Car. Keep Depreciation in Mind The allure of a shiny new car is appealing, no doubt. Sometimes, new may be the best choice. However, a wise shopper keeps depreciation in mind no matter whether they're buying new or preowned. With such extensive data available from reputable sources, there's no excuse for not doing your homework where the long term value of your vehicle is concerned. When you're ready to make your purchase, visit Rath Auto Fort Smith to find just what you're looking for. Image via Flickr by danielctw