How to Plan a Road Trip: Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide
Hello there, fellow road tripper!
Are you wanting to escape the daily grind, leave your worries in the rearview mirror, and set out on a grand adventure?
Well, buckle up, my friend, because I’m about to show you how to plan a road trip that’ll be epic!
Imagine the wind in your hair, tunes blaring on the radio, and a horizon full of unknown possibilities. Road trips are the ultimate freedom, like a Choose-Your-Own-Adventure book, but with a much better soundtrack.
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But before you hit the gas pedal, there’s one thing you gotta do first – PLAN IT!
Or maybe not?
Maybe you are the fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants type, and I applaud you for it! I wish I could be more like you.
However, I’m willing to bet you are more like me, or otherwise, what are you doing here? This is a blog about PLANNING! – Yuck!
Yes, planning might sound about as exciting as watching paint dry, but trust me, it’s the secret to transforming your road trip from a chaotic mess into an epic journey.
Don’t worry; I’m here to make the planning process as smooth as a freshly paved highway.
So, sit back, relax, and let’s map out your next unforgettable road trip step by step.
Table of Contents:
Step 1: Choose Your Destination
Step 2: Set a Road Trip Budget
Step 3: Plan Your Road Trip Route
Step 4: Where are You Going to Sleep at Night?
Step 5: Road Trip Packing Essentials
Step 7: Entertainment and Navigation Tools
Step 9: Safety and Emergency Preparedness
Road Trip Mistakes to Avoid – Making Your Journey Smoother
Additional Resources – Your Road Trip Toolkit
How to Plan a Road Trip in 10 Simple Steps
HEADS UP: Some of the tips in this article are focused on road trips in the United States, but most of the advice can be helpful no matter where you’re planning a road trip. Whether you’re exploring the U.S. or somewhere else in the world, the info here can help make your road trip EPIC!
Step 1: Choose Your Destination
Alright, it’s decision time!
Picking your destination is like choosing the flavor of ice cream you want at an ice cream parlor – there are so many delicious options, and you’ve got to find the one that makes your taste buds tingle.
FYI: the flavor that gets my tastebuds tingling is Black Licorice! Where are my fellow black licorice lovers out there??
Factors to Consider:
How much time do you have?
This question is probably the most important factor when figuring out where you should go. Are you hitting the road for a weekend getaway, a week-long trip, or a month-long journey? You don’t want to plan a cross-country road trip if you only have a few days to spare.
Your timeframe dictates how far you can travel and how many stops you can make. It’s like fitting pieces into a puzzle, so make sure your planned trip matches the time on your clock. A rushed trip might leave you feeling like you’ve missed out, while an extended cross-country road trip can lead to fatigue.
You also want to make sure you’ve got time for exploration! Road trips are amazing because of all the fun things and surprises you find along the way. Being in a hurry and feeling rushed takes away from the fun. Don’t be a Fun crusher!
How much time do you want to spend behind the wheel every day?
A balance between driving and exploring is key!
Think about how many hours you’re comfortable driving in a single day. Too much time spent behind the wheel can make you super tired, so remember to take breaks! You are not a machine; you need to stretch your legs, eat, pee, and do some sightseeing along the way. You don’t want to reach your final destination feeling totally worn out. Plan your daily driving so you’re energized to enjoy the beautiful places you visit.
Helpful Tip:
When planning a road trip, here’s a golden rule: be realistic about your time and limits. It’s easy to get carried away with an ambitious road trip itinerary. I’ve done it before!
Just remember that road trips are about the journey, not just ticking off places on your list. Give yourself time to explore and enjoy each stop along the way. Don’t rush through the experience. Over-planning can lead to exhaustion and disappointment. Instead, embrace spontaneity and allow room for unplanned detours and discoveries. It’s these unscripted moments that often become the highlights of your road trip. So, take a deep breath, relax, and go with the flow. Your adventure will be all the better for it!
So, where should you go?
Think about what ignites your passion. Are you a beach bum, a mountain lover, a city slicker, or a nature enthusiast? Choose a destination that matches your style. If you adore the ocean, it might not be wise to pick a desert adventure. If you’re an outdoor junkie, visiting national parks might be your jam. Foodie? Head to places known for their awesome food. Whatever it is you’re chasing, just remember the world is your oyster – corny, I know. But it is!
Now, let’s start brainstorming! Grab a piece of paper, open the notes app on your phone, or even start a list in your head. Jot down all the places you’re itching to visit. Think about the destinations you’ve daydreamed about, those spots your friends have raved about, and even the places you’ve seen on Instagram. Let your imagination run wild. Create a bucket list if you haven’t done that already.
Gather Inspiration and Research:
Grab your trusty friend, Google, and start gathering juicy information and inspiration—surf blogs and websites or hop on social media. You’ll find nuggets of wisdom about cool places to visit, hidden gems, and the best times to go.
Here are all the places I get travel inspiration from:
- Travel Blogs
- YouTube
- Guide Books
- Friends & Family
Here is my favorite Road Trip Guide Book:
A little extra tip: consider the season. Road-tripping Alaska in winter may sound cool (pun intended), but you might end up as an ice sculpture if you’re not prepared.
Remember, your destination is the heart and soul of your road trip, so choose wisely, and you’ll be off to a fantastic start!
Step 2: Set a Road Trip Budget
Money talk – it’s not everyone’s favorite topic, but it’s pretty important. Unless you’re sitting on a big pile of cash, it’s a good idea to ballpark how much you can comfortably spend on your road trip. After all, you don’t want to return home and freak out because you way overspent. No worries, friend. I’m going to help you budget so you can enjoy your adventure without breaking the bank.
Creating a Travel Budget:
First things first, let’s create a budget. Think about how much you’re willing to spend on your road trip. Be honest with yourself. This is your adventure, and it’s crucial to make sure it’s within your means.
Start by considering major expenses like gas, accommodation, food, and activities. Don’t forget about those sneaky little expenses that can add up, like tolls, parking, and souvenirs.
Don’t know how to create a travel budget? That’s OK; I’ve got you covered! In this post, How to create a travel budget that works, one that you can actually stick to, I help you do just that. Plus, I give lots of budget-friendly tips that will help you save money. Go check it out.
Helpful Tip:
Save money where you can without sacrificing fun! Look for ways to cut costs, like finding cheaper gas stations, cooking your meals sometimes, or choosing budget-friendly accommodations like tent camping. Remember, the more you save, the more miles you can cover.
Just remember, budgeting doesn’t mean skimping on fun. It means enjoying your road trip without the stress of overspending. You’ve got this!
Step 3: Plan Your Road Trip Route
Alright, now that you’ve picked your destination and set a budget that won’t make your wallet cry, it’s time to plan your road trip route.
Mapping Out Your Journey
Get ready to put your inner CARTOGRAPHER to work. Whew! That’s a big word! FYI: I had to look that one up!
You can use old-school paper maps or go high-tech with GPS apps like Google Maps or Maps.me. Plot your starting point, destination, and any must-see stops along the way.
Identifying Key Stops and Landmarks
I prefer using Google Maps and pinning all the attractions and hotspots I want to see. Google Maps came in really handy when my husband and I took a two-week East Coast fall road trip around all six New England States. Not only did It store pins that I had saved when I was back home doing research, but it also allowed me to search the area for attractions when I was there. I was able to hunt down several lesser-known but equally adorable covered bridges on the back roads.
If you are planning a New England fall road trip anytime in the future, check out this great post. It’s jam-packed with details and helpful tips!
Create a Road Trip Itinerary
Now that you’ve got your route and your key stops and landmarks in mind, it’s time to create your road trip itinerary – the road map for your adventure.
My preferred method is still the old-fashioned way with pen and paper. Grab a notebook and start jotting down your destinations, overnight stops, the activities you want to do, and the time you’d like to spend at each stop. Be sure to add in driving times between locations!
If you are more of a digital road trip planner, there are many road trip planning apps available to help you plan your entire itinerary. You can enter your stops, set times, and even share your itinerary with fellow travelers. (I will cover these apps later in this post.)
First Draft
Once you have your itinerary drafted, it’s good to go back and review it.
Run through it and ask yourself:
- Does it feel too busy or rushed? Road trips are about enjoyment, not racing.
- Is it balanced? Are you mixing up driving with sightseeing, relaxation, and fun activities?
- Have you allowed some time for spontaneity? Some of the best road trip moments are unplanned.
- Have you considered adding a buffer day or two at the end? Life is unpredictable! (I highly recommend adding a buffer day at the end of your trip if you can. You never know what might happen, and having that peace of mind is invaluable.)
Make Adjustments
Once you’ve reviewed your draft itinerary, make any necessary adjustments so that you are not exhausted when you reach the end. Your goal is to have a solid plan that gives you direction while leaving room for adventure and flexibility. At this point, you should have a kick-ass itinerary in hand and ready to drive off on the perfect road trip!
Helpful Tip:
Don’t plan every minute of your day. Leave some wiggle room for spontaneity because you never know when you’ll stumble upon a charming roadside attraction or meet locals with awesome tips.
The Importance of Flexibility in Your Route
Road trips are all about flexibility. Got a sudden urge to detour to that quirky museum or that yummy food truck? Go for it! Being too rigid might just turn your road trip into a chore.
Of course, it’s good to have a general route in mind. It keeps you on track and helps you estimate how many miles you’ll cover each day. Plus, knowing where you’ll rest your head at night is a must, especially during peak travel seasons when accommodations can fill up fast.
Helpful Tip:
Always calculate for random stops in your driving time! Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination, and these stops along the way will make your road trip memorable and exciting. So, go ahead and make your route a road trip to remember!
Step 4: Where Are You Going to Sleep at Night?
After a long day of adventure, you’ll need a cozy spot to rest your weary head. So, let’s find you the perfect accommodations for your road trip.
Options for Overnight Stops
Road trips offer a smorgasbord of options for places to crash. You can go old-school with motels and hotels or embrace the modern traveler in you by booking Airbnb or VRBO. You can also check out hip hostels if you are into that sort of thing. When we choose to stay in a hotel, I find most of our stays on hotels.com or Expedia.
And don’t forget about campgrounds and RV parks if you’re a nature lover who’s tent camping or chosen to road trip it with a home on wheels. Renting an RV or camper can be more affordable than staying in hotels or vacation rentals. Plus, it gives you loads of freedom for spontaneity! Check out Outdoorsy if you are considering renting an RV or camper.
Of course, you could always sleep in your car/SUV. It’s really not that bad! We did it on a New England road trip in the fall. Bonus: you save a ton of money!
Choose whatever suits your budget and comfort level. Each option has its own allure. Or, if you really want to shake things up, choose a mixture of them all.
FYI: We almost never pay for camping! We always try to disperse camp (for FREE) on BLM or National Forest lands. If you want to find areas where you can disperse camp, then click on this BLM website and explore their interactive map or this USFS website for rules and regulations.
Booking Accommodations in Advance vs. On the Go
HERE’S THE SCOOP: booking ahead gives you peace of mind. You know you’ve got a bed waiting for you at the end of a long day’s drive. But there’s something exhilarating about being spontaneous.
- Do you want to be in complete control of your adventure? Go ahead, book in advance.
- Do you want a little thrill? Be a maverick and book as you go.
Just keep in mind that during peak travel season, it’s smarter to book ahead to avoid the dreaded “No Vacancy” sign.
Tips for Staying Safe and Comfortable
Safety first, road tripper!
Check reviews and ratings for accommodations to ensure you’re not checking into the setting of a horror movie. Look for spots with secure parking, especially if you’re traveling with lots of gear.
And when it comes to comfort, remember to pack the essentials. That means your favorite pillow, cozy blanket, and maybe a nightlight if you’re not a fan of darkness.
Whether you’re a luxury traveler or a rugged road warrior, finding the right accommodations is key to having a fantastic road trip. So, pick your pillow and rest easy!
Step 5: Road Trip Packing Essentials
Packing for a road trip is like preparing for a marathon, except with more scenic views and fewer sweaty strangers. Let’s make sure you’ve got all the things to keep your adventure on track.
What to Bring for Your Road Trip
When packing for a road trip, it’s really easy to go overboard! Trust me, I know! Try to pack with a space-saving mindset. It’s a real pain jostling stuff around, trying to find the one thing you need all the way at the bottom of the mountain of stuff you packed!
Start by thinking about the basics. You’ll need clothes, toiletries, and personal items. Again, don’t go overboard – you’ve got limited space in your vehicle unless you’re road-tripping in a monster motorhome.
Consider the climate and activities you will be doing at your destination and pack accordingly. I always pack my osprey backpack for a day trip, hike, or adventure I randomly find myself on.
Road trip MVPs!
- Snacks
- Water & Water bottle
- First aid kit
- Entertainment
Snacks keep the hungry monster at bay, and a first aid kit is your safety net. And, of course, what’s a road trip without some tunes or audiobooks to keep you company? (We have created a road trip playlist on our phones and like to jam out to it to keep the boredom away.)
Packing Tips for Maximizing Space and Convenience
Now, let’s talk packing strategy. Are you team rolling or team folding?? Personally, I’m a roller.
Rolling your clothes instead of folding them saves space and minimizes wrinkles. I also like to use packing cubes to keep things organized and accessible.
A little helpful tip:
Create an easy-to-reach essentials bag with items like sunscreen, phone chargers, and a camera for those spontaneous photo ops. Keep this bag up front with you or on top for easy access!
Safety Items to Include
Safety on the road is essential. Make sure you have a well-stocked emergency kit with items like jumper cables, a flashlight, and basic tools. If you are traveling in remote areas where you may not have another car to jump you, then I highly recommend getting a jump starter battery pack!
Also, if you’re venturing into the great outdoors, add camping gear and bear spray if you’re in bear country.
Remember, less is more. It’s a road trip, not a cross-country move. So, pack smart, and you’ll have everything you need without feeling like a hoarder in a hatchback.
Step 6: Vehicle Preparation
Your vehicle is your trusty steed on this road trip adventure, and it needs some love and attention to ensure a smooth ride. This section mostly pertains to road-tripping in your own vehicle. If you opted for a rental car, then let’s keep our fingers crossed that the company has already done this for you. I suggest at least asking the rental cars company if these things have been done.
Let’s dive into preparing your wheels for the open road.
Ensuring Your Vehicle Is Road-Ready
First things first, a quick checkup on your ride is essential. Make sure your car is up-to-date on maintenance. That means oil change, tire rotation, and any other overdue repairs. Nobody wants their car to break down in the middle of nowhere, right?
Maintenance Checks and Servicing
If you’re not a car whiz, take your vehicle to a mechanic for a thorough inspection. They can spot any issues that you might’ve missed. Also, don’t forget to check the spare tire, jack, and other tools you might need for roadside emergencies!
Emergency Kit and Tools to Carry
Speaking of emergencies, it’s a good idea to carry an emergency kit. Think of it as a first aid kit for your car. Jumper cables, a tire inflator, basic tools, and a flashlight are must-haves. Or have a jump starter battery pack on hand. You might not need them, but if you do, you’ll be glad they’re there.
Unfortunately, no roadside emergency kit is going to fix everything every time. It’s a really smart idea to look into roadside assistance options. Check to see if your car insurance offers towing or roadside assistance. If not, you can purchase a roadside assistance policy through AAA or another similar program. I personally carry a policy with AAA and have had to use it when I accidentally locked my keys in my car.
Oh, that reminds me… here’s another Helpful Tip:
To avoid the headache of locking your keys in the car, always carry a “his and her” set. Each of you should have a copy of the car keys. This way, if one set gets locked inside, you have a spare car key to save the day. It’s a simple precaution that can save you from an unexpected and frustrating situation during your long road trip.
Remember, your vehicle is your road trip companion, so show it some love before you hit the highway. A well-prepared car means fewer breakdowns and more miles of adventure.
Buckle up, and let’s keep those wheels turning!
Step 7: Entertainment and Navigation Tools
You’re on the road, the miles are stretching out before you, and it’s time to make sure you’ve got the right entertainment and navigation tools to keep you on track and entertained.
How to Keep Entertained on the Road
Road trips can be long, and boredom can sneak up on you. So, bring your A-game in the entertainment department. Load up on podcasts, audiobooks, and your favorite road trip playlist. They’re your co-pilots, aside from your travel companion, keeping you engaged and awake on those endless stretches of highway.
Using Technology for Navigation
Now, let’s talk about how you’re going to find your way. GPS apps like Google Maps and Maps.me are your trusty companions. They’ll help you navigate the twists and turns of unfamiliar roads and provide real-time traffic updates to keep you on the fastest route.
Offline Maps and GPS Alternatives
But what if you’re in a remote area with no cell service? No worries! Download offline maps before your trip. That way, even if you lose signal, you won’t lose your way.
Another cool trick is to bring a physical map. Yes, an actual paper map. It’s a throwback, but it can be a lifesaver in areas with sketchy signals or when you’re feeling a bit old school.
Wait! Do you even know how to read a map? If not, you’re probably going to be screwed – JUST KIDDING! GTS (Google that shit) real quick before you leave! Maps are way easier than you think! My dad taught me when I was like five or something.
So, blast your playlist, keep an eye on your GPS (preferably attached to a dashboard mount), and enjoy the journey!
Step 8: Food and Dining
A road trip without good food is like a car without wheels – it just doesn’t work. Let’s talk about how to keep your taste buds happy and your hungry monster at bay.
Planning Meals and Snacks
First things first, think about what you’re going to eat on the road. Consider your meal preferences and dietary restrictions. If you’re a foodie, look for unique local restaurants to try along the way. If you’re on a budget, consider packing sandwiches, fruits, and snacks to avoid pricey pit stops. Or prepare no-cook meals that you can easily eat on the road.
Don’t forget a cooler or insulated bag to keep perishables fresh! It’s a game-changer for storing drinks and snacks, plus it saves you from stopping at every convenience store. We absolutely love our car plug-in road trip cooler.
Budget-Friendly Dining Options
Eating out every meal can drain your wallet faster than a roadster at full throttle. Look for budget-friendly dining options like local diners, food trucks, and roadside stands. They often serve delicious, affordable meals that add a dash of local flavor to your journey. Another great idea for cheap meals is to swing into grocery stores that often have a deli.
Tips for Eating Healthy on the Road
While indulging in delicious road trip treats is part of the fun, it’s also essential to stay healthy. Include some fresh fruits, veggies, and nuts in your snack lineup to balance out the fast food and roadside diner feasts.
Pro tip: bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated. Dehydration is a real road trip buzzkill.
Food is not just fuel; it’s the best part of the road trip experience. So, plan your meals, try local specialties, and savor every bite.
Step 9: Safety and Emergency Preparedness
Safety first, road trippers! While road trips are a blast, you need to be prepared for the unexpected. Let’s chat about how to stay safe and handle any bumps in the road.
Preparing for Unforeseen Situations
Life doesn’t always follow the map, and sometimes you’ll run into unexpected hiccups. That’s where a little preparation comes in handy. Pack a basic emergency kit with items like a flashlight, first aid supplies, a blanket, and some non-perishable snacks.
Having these essentials can make a world of difference if you find yourself in a tight spot on the road.
Travel Insurance and Medical Considerations
Travel insurance is your safety net on your road trip. It can help with unexpected things like trip cancellations and medical emergencies.
And speaking of medical matters, make sure to carry any necessary medications, Rx’s, and your medical information. It’s always good to have your health in your own hands.
Helpful Tip:
About a week before your road trip kicks off, take a quick peek at the weather forecast. This isn’t just about staying comfy; it’s about being safe. You want to know if any bad weather is on its way, like storms or heavy rain. If it is, you can get ready for it, maybe change your plans a bit, and pack the right gear. It’s all about being prepared and keeping your trip smooth and safe. So, keep an eye on that weather report!
The road is unpredictable, but a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your safety and peace of mind. So, buckle up and rest easy, knowing you’re ready for whatever the road throws your way.
Step 10: Final Checklist
You’re almost ready to hit the open road, but before you go, there are a few last-minute checks and touches to ensure a smooth and enjoyable road trip.
Reviewing All Planning Aspects
Take a moment to review everything you’ve planned so far. Double-check your destination, budget, route, accommodations, and everything else on your checklist. Make sure you haven’t missed any critical details.
Last-Minute Preparations
Now, it’s time to tackle the final preparations:
- Fill up your gas tank
- Check your tire pressure
- Load up your vehicle with all the essentials you’ve gathered
- Make sure your luggage is securely stowed, and everything is within easy reach.
- Don’t forget to notify a friend or family member about your travel plans and share your itinerary with them. It’s a safety precaution that can be invaluable in case of emergencies.
Setting Off with Confidence
With all the planning and preparations behind you, it’s time to set off with confidence and excitement. The road is waiting, and a world of adventure lies ahead. Remember, the best part of a road trip is the journey itself, so embrace every twist and turn.
So, rev that engine, put on your favorite road trip playlist, and start your adventure with a smile on your face and a sense of anticipation in your belly.
The open road is yours for the taking – enjoy the ride!
Road Trip Mistakes to Avoid – Making Your Journey Smoother
As much as we love the idea of a road trip filled with scenic views, memorable stops, and carefree adventures, the reality is that sometimes things don’t go as planned. By avoiding these road trip screw-ups, you can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.
Here are the common mistakes and great tips to help you avoid them:
Over-planning Every Minute
One of the biggest road trip mistakes is over-planning. While having a rough itinerary is a good idea, don’t schedule every minute of your trip. Leave room for spontaneity and those unexpected gems you’ll discover along the way.
Not Budgeting for Contingencies
You’ve set a budget for your trip, but have you considered unexpected expenses? Road trips have a way of throwing curveballs, from vehicle repairs to surprise attractions. Be prepared by setting aside a cushion in your budget for these contingencies.
Ignoring Vehicle Maintenance
Your trusty vehicle is your road trip buddy, and it needs some love. Don’t skip regular maintenance and pre-trip check-ups. A breakdown in the middle of nowhere can put a damper on your adventure.
Packing Too Much (or Too Little)
Finding the right balance in packing can be tricky. Packing too much can make your car feel like a sardine can while packing too little might leave you ill-equipped for unexpected weather changes or emergencies. Strike a balance, and remember, you can buy or borrow certain items on the road.
Ignoring Safety Measures
Safety first! Skipping essentials like a first-aid kit, a flashlight, a roadside emergency kit, and some basic tools is a big no-no. Always carry these safety items, and know how to use them in case of emergencies!
Not Checking Accommodations in Advance
If you’re planning to stay at hotels, campgrounds, or other accommodations, it’s wise to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Arriving at a fully booked spot when you’re tired and hungry isn’t fun.
Forgetting Travel Insurance
Don’t underestimate the value of travel insurance. It can save the day in case of cancellations, medical emergencies, or unexpected incidents on the road. It’s a small investment for peace of mind.
Not Staying Hydrated
Dehydration can sneak up on you when you’re busy exploring. Spending long hours in the car with the heater cranked up might make you feel toasty, but it can also dry out the air inside. Just like a desert can zap moisture from your skin, so can a heated car cabin. And when the air is dry, it can lead to dehydration. To keep your focus sharp, energy up, and stay hydrated during your road trip, be sure to drink plenty of water.
Rushing the Journey
Avoid the mistake of rushing from one spot to the next. Be sure to give yourself enough time in your itinerary to take your time, savor the moments, and embrace the unexpected detours that make road trips so special.
Marathon Mileage Mistake
Avoid attempting to cover too many miles in a single day! While I totally understand being eager to reach your next destination, pushing your limits can be a big mistake. Long hours behind the wheel can lead to driver fatigue, making you less alert and increasing the risk of accidents. Additionally, spending too much time on the road might mean missing out on the cute towns and fun experiences along the way. So, take it easy, break up your trip into manageable segments you’re comfortable driving, and enjoy the road trip experience at a comfortable pace.
Not Keeping an Eye on Your Gas
When you run low on gas in the middle of nowhere, it’s a real challenge. The nearest gas station might be far away in some places. So, fill up when you can, even if you’re not almost empty. Keep an eye on that fuel level to keep your road trip smooth and free from “running on empty” anxiety!
Helpful Tip:
Before you head out on a road trip, don’t forget to check your driver’s license. Different places might have different rules, and you could need an international driver’s license if you are planning a road trip abroad. Make sure you’re legally good to go for your upcoming trip to prevent any unexpected hurdles.
Additional Resources – Your Road Trip Toolkit
Before we part ways, I’ve got a few more gems to share to make your road trip even more awesome!
Helpful Apps and Websites for Your Road Trip Planning
The digital age sure has changed things around here, especially when it comes to road trip planning. Here are some of my favorites:
Roadtrippers.com – a great route planning site. It helps you plan your road trip by making a custom route, adding cool stops, and telling you how long it might take.
MyScenicDrives.com – helps you plan the best route and gives you helpful info and things to do.
Google Maps – provides several options for routes between point A & point B. It allows you to pin locations and save them on the map.
Recreation.gov – this site has an interactive map of all the national parks across the country, and it allows you to build a trip.
The Dyrt – is a camping app that has the largest network of campsites in the United States.
Free Roam – this is a free app that shows campsites on a map and allows you to filter them by price, type, and rating. The campsites are rated by helpful things like crowdedness, road difficulty, cell signal, shade, and other unique factors.
All Trails – if you are planning on doing any hiking, this app is a must. It gives lots of details and photos of the trails and hikes in the area.
GasBuddy – when you need to make fuel stops, this app helps you find the gas station with the cheapest gas near you.
Waze -this is an app that shows you the traffic patterns in cities specifically so you can navigate around it and not get stuck in traffic jams.
Trail Wallet – a budgeting app for travelers to keep track of spending.
TripAdvisor – a website that helps you find fun and unique attractions along the way.
Yelp – can help you discover great restaurants along your journey.
Packing Checklist
To ensure you don’t forget anything essential, I’ve put together a handy road trip packing checklist for you. It covers everything from clothing to toiletries, safety gear, and entertainment. Feel free to download and print it to make packing a breeze.
List of Safety and Emergency Contacts
Road trips can sometimes throw unexpected surprises your way. I’ve compiled a list of important safety and emergency contacts that you should research and have on hand during your adventure. Having these numbers at your fingertips can be a real lifesaver.
- 911
- AAA or Local Equivalent
- Local Hospitals or Medical Centers
- Poison Control
- Family & Friends Numbers
- Insurance Provider
- Local Towing Service
- Nearest Embassy or Consulate
- Weather & Road Construction Hotline
- Travel Insurance Assistant Services Number
- Local Law Enforcement
- Hotel & Accommodation Contacts
- Lost or Stollen Card Services
So, whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or a newbie explorer, you’re now armed with the knowledge and resources you need to hit the road with confidence.
Time to Hit the Road!
Well, road tripper, you’ve made it to the finish line of this epic road trip planning guide. Now it’s time to put the pedal to the metal!
By following these steps, you’ve turned your dream of a road trip into a well-thought-out adventure.
As you pull out of your driveway or hit the highway, remember your road trip is a chance to escape the ordinary, embrace the extraordinary, and make every mile count. So, don’t stress about the details; just enjoy the ride. Be open to surprises, make new friends, and create stories that will last a lifetime. Your adventure begins the moment you turn the key.
Now, with maps, snacks, and good vibes in tow, go out there and chase horizons and enjoy the beauty of the open road. Your journey is as much about the destination as it is about the moments in between.
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🚗 But wait, there’s more! 🚗
I’d love to hear about your road trip experiences and answer any questions you might have. Share your adventures, mishaps, and favorite memories that made your road trip unforgettable.
Join my Facebook page, Kates.Crossing, and follow me on Instagram, @kates.crossing. I’d love to have you as part of the community!
Remember, the road is open, and so are my ears (well, virtually). I can’t wait to connect with you, fellow road warrior, and share in your road trip stories.
Happy travels!