Can technology make holiday travel more enjoyable?

Over the past few years, there has been a growing concern that technology is coming between families. And with everyone spending more time on their phones and dialed into social media, it's a valid one.

But during the holidays, technology might just prove to be a connector, not a divider. In fact, some of the latest vehicle technology can bring families closer together while alleviating the familiar tensions that arise during long holiday road trips.

This season, it might be worth looking at technology in a different way.

USB PORTS

Do your family members ever find themselves fighting to stay plugged in during a long ride? It always seems that, conveniently, everyone has to charge their phones at the same time. Today's newest vehicles have USB ports throughout the cabin and can easily accommodate all the passengers' charging needs, keeping the peace on a long winter's drive.

BLUETOOTH

Do you plead with your kids to remove their earbuds and enjoy some family time during your road trips? Try using your vehicle's Bluetooth, which gives everyone in the vehicle a chance to play something they want to hear from their own device.

HANDS-FREE TECHNOLOGY

Getting lost on a road trip is a recipe for frustration. Consider pairing your mobile device with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto to enable hands-free navigation to help your pit stops efficiently and get to your destination on time. These systems also help reduce instances of distracted driving, allowing you to safely accept calls, listen to podcasts, and play your favorite tunes.

BUILT-IN SAFETY

With features like a blind spot information system and automatic emergency braking, Ford's newest suite of safety technology, Co-Pilot360, helps you arrive safely to your destination despite the distractions that go hand-in-hand with long car rides, like bickering and backseat drivers.

4G LTE

Do long road trips eat up your family's data plan? Vehicles equipped with 4G LTE hotspots allow passengers to stream their favorite movies or television shows without competing for data. Everyone's entertained, which means everyone's happy.

We know that holiday road trips can be long, but thanks to new vehicle technology, they no longer have to be painful. Advancements in technology can help the whole family settle in for a long, peaceful journey, wherever their destination may be.

• John Hennessy is the owner of River View Ford in Oswego, Ill.