There’s nothing like the open road. Long-distance road trips are a classic American tradition, and a bucket list item you must do once in your life.
Thanks to modern technology, planning your American road trip is easier than ever. A bit of smart digital planning can make your journey smoother while you get your kicks on Route 66.
Let’s take a look at how to plan an unforgettable road trip in the USA.
Choose Your Route and Stops
On a road trip, the journey is the destination. But it’s good to have a destination in mind so that you can plan the stops you’ll make along the way.
The US has so many iconic road trip routes. The Pacific Coast Highway, Route 66, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the Great River Road are all incredible adventures. But one of the best things about a road trip is the flexibility. Along with famous landmarks, make time for lesser-known detours along the way. These often end up being the highlight of your trip.
It’s also important to remember to factor in breaks. It’s not safe to drive for long periods of time, so try to plan your stops. You’ll also need to plan where you intend to stay, whether that’s at motels, campsites, or in recreation areas.
Tools like Google Maps are great for giving you driving distances and times. Wanderlog is also excellent for building your itinerary. And if you’re a fan of the quirky, don’t overlook Atlas Obscura.
Research Destinations Before You Go
Once you have an idea of where you want to go and what you want to see, it’s time to dig a little deeper.
For example, if you plan to visit state or national parks, you’ll need to check seasonal weather and park closures. Meanwhile, if you’re planning to visit cities, you’ll want to know what events are happening during your visit. You may also want to look into driving restrictions and parking options so you’re fully prepared for your visit.
TripAdvisor is a great resource for checking reviews of restaurants, hotels, and attractions so that you know what to expect. Online forums like Reddit can also be an awesome place to get information from locals.
A little research before you go can help you stay adaptable later. Spontaneity is all part of a road trip, but it’s good to have some idea what you’re getting into.
Book Accommodations on the Road
Whether you prefer classic motels, boutique inns, or a tent, the right accommodation can make or break a trip.
- Stay flexible. Apps like booking.com, Hotwire, or Hipcamp can help you find same-day options. That’s great if you take a wrong turn or decide to change your itinerary on the go.
- Save your data. Download reservation details as soon as you have made a booking. That way, if you lose reception, you’ll have a copy on your device.
- Check reviews. They’re the best way to predict what kind of experience you’re going to have.
- Secure your connection. Use a VPN to protect your data and payment details, especially when booking on public Wi-Fi. You can also look into additional free network security tools.
Digital Tools for a Smoother Journey
Technology can enhance your road trip in lots of ways. Using the right tools can make your trip less stressful and more fun.
- Navigation: Google Maps with off-line mode, or Waze. Maps.me is also great for back roads.
- Fuel: GasBuddy can help you find the cheapest fuel nearby.
- Discovery: Sites like Roadtrippers and Atlas Obscura help you find quirky attractions along the way.
Stay Safe on the Road
A few precautions make for a much better trip. Don’t overlook these steps that can help you stay safe and give you peace of mind while you explore.
- Stay charged. Bring extra charges and a power bank so you can keep devices charged up.
- Use secure networks. Public Wi-Fi at motels and cafés can be risky. Use a VPN to keep your data encrypted.
- Share your itinerary. Let friends or family know where you’re going, and use location sharing apps so they can track your route.
- Bring backups. A printed map and written itinerary might seem old-school, but you’ll be so glad to have it if your connection drops.
Enjoy the Journey
When planning a road trip, the goal is to balance the ability to be spontaneous with staying safe and comfortable. Tools like printed maps, cloud storage, and VPNs make your trip smoother so you can focus on enjoying the experience.
On a classic US road trip, the best memories may come from the unplanned stops. A beautiful sunset in the Rocky Mountains. A roadside diner in Kansas. A street festival in some town you’ve never heard of. These may end up being unforgettable highlights.
A little bit of planning lets you stay open to adventure while also giving you peace of mind.