long road trip ideas

25 Practical Tips for Long Road Trips

By Jason Barnette | Travel writer and photographer with 15+ years of road tripping experience

• Last Updated on May 26, 2023
• Published on July 7, 2021

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my Affiliate Disclosure here .

You’re finally ready to embark on that epic road trip that will take you across the country from sea to shining sea. The gas tank is full, you’ve checked off every item on the packing list, and you’re ready to hit the road. But are you actually ready for a long road trip?

The longer a road trip, the more complicated it can get. I didn’t say would get, but it certainly can get complicated. Have you packed enough clothing for the entire trip, or will you need to do laundry along the way? Are you ready for chilly nights, rain, and unexpected adventures? Unfortunately, these are the kinds of questions many people don’t consider until the road trip is underway – and it’s too late to make many changes.

These 25 practical tips for long road trips will help you get prepared long before you leave home, save money along the way, and help you spend more time enjoying the road trip and less time dealing with those pesky complications.

Buy food at grocery stores instead of gas stations

Road trip snacks are almost as necessary as gasoline for the car – they even perform similar functions. But one of the worst things a person can do on a road trip is to buy the snacks spontaneously at random gas stations along the way.

Save money and time with those snacks at grocery stores or bulk purchase stores. Stock up on all the snacks, drinks, and coffee at a fraction of the price of buying it along the way. The more you save, the longer you can drive.

Get your car inspected

Before leaving home, get your car inspected. Most national chain auto repair shops offer free inspections because they want your business when they find something wrong with the car.

But it’s an excellent way to get all the fluids topped off, tires rotated and balanced, and the hundreds of moving parts of a car inspected before you leave. Spur of the moment auto repairs during a road trip can be prohibitively expensive – not to mention you might have to shack up at a roadside motel for a few days while the work is done.

Keep your car maintained

Did you know properly inflated tires can lead to better gas mileage? Under-inflated tires cause a drop of 0.2% miles per gallon for every 1 PSI of all tires. That may not seem like much, but it can add up on long road trips.

Consider a 5,000-mile road trip in a vehicle that gets 30 miles per gallon. This would require 167 gallons of gas to complete the trip. However, if all four tires are underinflated by an average of 4 PSI, that means the vehicle is only achieving 27.6 miles per gallon. This would require 182 gallons to complete the trip – an increase of 15 gallons.

Beyond tire pressure, be sure to maintain fluids for the radiator, brakes, and engine oil to prevent damage to the engine. Replaced burned out headlights and taillights immediately. Keep up with oil changes and tire rotations for trips longer than 5,000 miles.

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Set a reasonable daily mileage goal

The point of a road trip is to enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Driving 500 miles per day on the interstate highways doesn’t make for a very enjoyable road trip adventure. Driving that far on two-lane roads is incredibly tedious and exhausting.

By the time you stop at a couple roadside attractions, go for a hike in a state park, sit down for lunch, and take a short detour, the number of miles you’ll be able to cover in a single day will be limited at best. But that’s the point of the road trip! Set a limited number of miles to drive each day, giving yourself plenty of time to enjoy everything you’ll discover along the way.

Avoid rush hour traffic and peak dinner times

Sitting in congested traffic and waiting for food are two of the biggest examples of losing time on a long road trip. In fact, those are the biggest time wasters for just about any kind of travel. But there is a simple way to avoid losing time: avoid rush hour and peak dinner times.

Eat breakfast after 9 a.m., get lunch around 2 p.m., and consider dinner either early at 4 p.m. or wait until 7 p.m. During those time frames, you’ll get seated faster, and food served quicker. Also, when driving around town or between destinations, avoid the rush hours of 7-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m.

As an added bonus, use a navigation app or dedicated GPS device in your car that includes traffic information – this information will help you spot potential traffic jams from congestion, construction, or accidents and usually includes optional detours. Using an app like OpenTable ( iOs | Android ) will allow you to make reservations at many restaurants – cutting down the time spent waiting for a table to open.

Road Trip to the 8 Presidential Sites Throughout Northern Ohio

A void Small Town Travel on Sundays and Mondays

Roll into almost any small town with a population of less than 20,000 on a Sunday or Monday, and you’re likely to find every restaurant, museum, and attraction closed. It’s not from the owners’ lack of business sense but rather because the owners often work in their businesses, and they want a couple of days off each week.

Sundays and Mondays tend to be the most common days these local businesses are closed. However, it may also include mid-weekdays like Tuesday and Wednesday. Instead of visiting the small towns, consider spending the night in state or national parks, driving scenic routes, or just taking a couple of days to relax.

Pack everything – including the kitchen sink

I own six rain jackets, four sets of trekking poles, and two pairs of Crocs Swiftwater shoes . It’s not because I want a particular color combination for each day of the week, but instead because I kept leaving the items behind, thinking I wouldn’t need them.

Pack everything you can possibly fit into your vehicle for a long road trip. Go beyond your tentative itinerary and think about things you enjoy doing that you might want to do along the way. Take those golf clubs or stunt kites, pack the fleece hoodie, and bring more than two pairs of shoes. Although it’s impossible to prepare for every eventuality, every little bit helps save money in the budget.

Fill the gas tank on Monday

GasBuddy ( iOS | Android ) conducted a survey a few years ago to determine the best and worst times for gas prices. Interestingly, Mondays were the cheapest day of the week to get gas on average, with the best time coming around 10 a.m.

Also, interesting – though not surprising – was that the worst day to get gas was Friday or the day before a major holiday. During those days, gas prices tended to spike first thing in the morning.

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Don’t rely on cellular service

One universal constant of any long road trip is the eventuality of running into a cellular dead zone. Rural areas in the Midwest, rugged terrain in the Rockies, and sporadically throughout the Southeastern United States are areas in between cellular towers that will leave your cellphone or tablet as useful as screen doors for submarines.

Be prepared to eventually lose cellular service during your long road trip. Download Google Maps ( iOS | Android ) for offline use, make sure all your apps are up to date, and download movies for entertainment. Doing as much of this as possible while connected to WIFI will prevent you from breaching a monthly data limit.

Plan to do laundry on the road

Depending on the length of the road trip, the activities you plan to enjoy along the way, and your fashion style, it just might not be possible to pack a new outfit for every single day. So rather than pack five suitcases stuffed with every stitch of clothing you own, consider doing laundry somewhere along the way.

As a rule of thumb, pack at least five of each type of clothing. Shorts, pants, tees, polos or blouses, underwear, and socks. On top of that, pack something for chilly nights and rain. This will give you about a week of clothing – but you’ll need to get used to wearing those shorts and that shirt more than once in between washing.

Buy a laundry bag and take it with you on the road trip. However, do not buy laundry detergent ahead of time. The heat and humidity will ruin most detergents and leave your car with an overwhelming smell. When you finally decide to do laundry, be sure to take enough quarters to complete your load, never leave your laundry unattended, and always use a laundromat during daylight hours.

Get organized

Organizing all your clothing, gear, food, and accessories is a crucial and often overlooked aspect of any long road trip. But, after two, three, or four weeks of restacking bags, hunting for that small item, and shifting cargo around every curve of the road, you’ll be on the edge of losing it.

Buy stuff sacks or use gallon-sized Ziplock bags to organize smaller items. Buy midsized duffel bags or plastic totes for organizing smaller bags. Stackable totes that can lock together are best for keeping the totes from sliding around in the vehicle. Label everything and always leave the most frequently used items on top.

Get plenty of sleep

The first few days of a long road trip, you’ll likely feel energized by the excitement and tempted to stay up 18 hours a day. I can typically keep that level of stamina going for about the first three weeks of constant travel – but eventually, everyone slows down.

Getting plenty of sleep is important to maintaining your mental and physical health, not to mention keeping morale high. Spending too much time traveling and not enough sleeping will eventually lead to exhaustion, depression, and moodiness.

On a long road trip, plan to take one or two days a week off from travel. Find a nice roadside motel, splurge on a super nice hotel with a free hot breakfast, or settle into a campground for two nights. Avoid the temptation to go out and explore the area – just focus on rest and relaxation.

Road Trip Along the Scenic Route from Gatlinburg to Asheville

Keep the car clean (inside and out)

The day before any road trip begins, I always find one of those really nice car washes with the conveyor belt that pulls the vehicle through a wash cycle. Then, after getting the exterior cleaned – included RainX and a tire shine – I visit the vacuum cleaners. There is no greater feeling than starting a long road trip with a squeaky-clean vehicle.

On long road trips, it will probably be necessary to do a little cleaning along the way. Car washes are easy enough. Instead of relying on their vacuum cleaners – or paying for them – consider buying the THISWORX Car Vacuum Cleaner . It uses 12v power with a removable collection bin and comes with a nice travel bag.

For an added touch, the Little Trees Vent Wrap Car Air Freshner’s “new car smell” will make your vehicle smell brand new after getting it clean.

Join a roadside rescue plan

Most auto insurance companies and cellular providers offer some sort of roadside assistance rescue plan. If you don’t have the option for either of those, consider buying a AAA membership to access their roadside rescue plan.

At the very least, roadside rescue plans will unlock a vehicle, tow your vehicle to safety, and provide gas in case you run out. Better plans will include longer towing distances and more gas. It’s the one thing you never think about until you need it – so this time, plan ahead.

Road Trip on the Scenic North Carolina Waterfall Byway

Keep up with monthly bills

Only about 40% of Americans use auto pay for monthly bills like utilities and credit card payments – I’m not one of them. One of the biggest mistakes with long road trips that last more than a month is forgetting to take care of those bills before you hit the road or somewhere during the trip.

It’s easy to pay those bills with the home computer with your login information saved, but could you pay those bills on the road with a cellphone or tablet? Be sure to take your login information with you and keep it in a safe location like a locked glovebox or portable security case. Add the due date for any bills to your travel itinerary – and remember that cellular service is not a guarantee everywhere.

Life Pro Trip: Many credit card companies and certain utilities allow you to choose a due date for your monthly bill. Aligning all these bills for the same due date makes it easier to keep up with – especially while you’re traveling.  

Leave room for souvenirs

I know I said “pack everything – including the kitchen sink” earlier, but don’t go overboard and fill the entire vehicle before you hit the road. More than likely, you will want to buy some souvenirs along the way.

Smaller souvenirs like clothing, décor, and Christmas ornaments – my favorite type of souvenir to buy – are easy enough to pack into a bag or tote in the vehicle. But if you buy more oversized items like artwork, glassware, or large gift items, ask the retailer if they can ship them to your home or a relative’s home for safekeeping. Often, the shipping is included, especially in areas of high tourism where they expect the buyers to be non-locals.

Insider Tip: An easy way to keep up with souvenirs on a long road trip is to mail them to a friend or relative. The Flat Rate boxes at the United States Postal Service come in several sizes and are indeed a single flat rate – ranging from about $5-$15 per box – no matter where you ship it in the continental U.S.

Bring your favorite ___________

Do you have a favorite coffee mug? Slippers? Or what about a television series you love to watch? Just because you’re going on a road trip doesn’t mean you can’t bring some of those with you.

Bringing your favorite items with you on a long road trip can help you feel more at home and relaxed. Instead of missing that perfect coffee mug or comfortable slippers, you’ll feel much better having them with you.

Have an itinerary but leave room for spontaneity

It’s always good to have a travel itinerary. It’s essential to know the business hours of museums, restaurants, and attractions, so you don’t arrive too late or on a day when they are typically closed. Building an itinerary can help you avoid those frustrations.

However, leave room for spontaneous detours that will inevitably come along during a long road trip. Be prepared for entire destinations to change as your route progresses. Take advice from locals and be willing to give something new a try!

Road Trip on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Fill all prescriptions and bring extra

For three years, I worked as a certified pharmacy technician at CVS/Pharmacy in Emerald Isle, North Carolina. During the hectic – sometimes chaotic – summer months, we would sometimes fill thousands of prescriptions in a single day. The most common type of prescription was for someone who had left the medication at home.

If you have any kind of regular medication, be sure to pack that for your trip. But for long road trips that last more than 30 days, you might run out while on the road. Make sure your prescription has refills on file with your pharmacy or take a new prescription with you – as long as it is not a controlled substance. If your insurance allows, consider getting two or three months’ worth filled at one time for your long road trip.

Watch out for 140-degree heat in the car

On sunny days during the summer months, vehicles’ internal temperatures can rise 30-40 degrees higher than the outside temperature. When I was a kid, I remember going for a walk to the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse during a family vacation. When we returned, my mom opened the back of the car to make snacks – only to discover the Cheese Whiz had exploded all over the car!

The high internal temperatures of vehicles can ruin more than just pressurized cans of food. Contact lenses, prescriptions, electronics, and coolers are all susceptible to damage from temperatures over 100 degrees.

You can reduce those internal temperatures by using a windshield sunshade. Close the sunshade on the moonroof. You may even consider buying curtains for the side windows – it’s not as silly as you might think.

Set a daily and final budget

My first road trip adventure of 2021 was a spontaneous, itinerary-free adventure along the Gulf Coast from Gulf Shores, Alabama, across Florida to Vero Beach. After a week exploring that area of Florida, I was considering heading south to Key West for what would have been my first visit. But when I looked at my bank account, my heart hit the floor when I realized my travel budget was at an end.

I’ve never been good at creating or keeping to a travel budget, and that resulted in a road trip cut short. So the better method is to create a daily budget and stick to it. But also give yourself leeway for those rare opportunities to do something awesome and set a final budget for the entire trip.

The advantage of a long road trip is that if you’re on the road long enough, you might just get an extra paycheck while you’re traveling. So how many vacation days do you have saved up for your long road trip?

Only travel by day

Some people only travel at night to avoid any traffic congestion at all – and that’s a good idea. But driving on unfamiliar roads at night poses some safety issues – not to mention what would happen if your vehicle broke down at 3 a.m.

The safest and surest way is to only travel by day. It will be much easier to keep aware of the unfamiliar road ahead, and you’re certain to get roadside assistance faster during normal business hours.

The Ultimate Road Trip on the Skyline Drive Through Shenandoah National Park

Choose the best road trip route

My #1 Rule for Road Trips is no interstate highways. There is just no reason to take a road trip route onto the interstate – you’ll miss everything along the way.

But what is the best road trip route? National scenic byways are a good start – there are dozens across the country. But sometimes, the most scenic or exciting road trip route is just a simple country road connecting interesting destinations. The best way to find those is to ask the locals – they always know the best route.

Document the trip

After returning home from an epic long road trip, it might be difficult to remember precisely where you found that amazing cheeseburger or savory salted caramel ice cream cone or watched that stunning sunset. It can be downright frustrating when you realize you don’t have a single photo to share or any clue where to find the name of that restaurant.

But what exactly does it mean to document the trip? I am not advocating for ten thousand photos plus an additional five thousand selfies from your long road trip. Don’t become one of those people who jump out of the car on the Blue Ridge Parkway just long enough for a selfie and then leave just as quickly.

It starts with the photos. Capture an exterior photo of every restaurant, museum, and attraction you visit – and be sure to include the name of the business. Capture an interior photo and then one or two photos of every meal or activity.

Take a journal. Jot down notes of the places you visit. Feelings. Smells. Sights. Take note of the business name, details of the food you eat, and reaction to museums. Draw pictures and maps, create word maps, put any word to paper that comes to mind. It will all be wonderful to see all the photos and notes again when your long road trip is finished.

Keep in touch with regular updates

One of the most important safety measures you can take during a long road trip is to let someone know where you are and where you are going by the end of the day. Particularly in places where cellular reception could be spotty, it’s good to tell someone that by nightfall, you should be at a particular destination and able to call them again.

That way, if your vehicle breaks down while in a cellular dead zone with little traffic, at least someone knows the route you were driving to send rescue your direction.

5 Responses

Great tips. Do you have a good app that we can use to track how our car is doing. So like we put in the mileage and it does the calculations for us of how many miles to gallon and stuff like that?

The best app I know about is called Mile IQ. It’s meant for contractors who have to keep up with their mileage for bookkeeping, but it works for road trippers as well. Give that a look and let me know if it works~!

Wrote down some of the tips that I want to remember before the trip. Changed the idea of minimizing clothing to being sure to cover (see what I did there) all bases. Like having a warm hoodie even though I am planning a trip, late June, to the South. Having something & not needing it is so much more logical that getting something I already have but not bringing it. Thank you for your tips.

Thank you very much for taking the time to put these tips together! Very helpful!

Great tips, thank you! My son is traveling the month of May on a solo road trip for the first time so wanted to pass these tips on to him!

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23 Incredible Road Trips in the U.S.

Whether you’re looking for sweeping views of the pacific ocean or a multiday adventure through national parks, these road trips provide plenty of opportunities to explore the united states..

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Glacier National Park is one of many scenic places you can visit on an American road trip.

Photo by Zack Frank / Shutterstock

In a country as large as the United States, there’s no shortage of destinations and detours to explore by car . Whether your idea of the perfect American road trip entails an epic, cross-country journey or a shorter jaunt through a few of its most iconic national parks , your options are as large and varied as the country itself.

Even if you don’t have the time to drive cross-country, there are plenty of road trip routes (ranging from three days to a week or longer): classic California itineraries , New England routes that shine especially well in the fall, scenic East Coast adventures, and a variety of Midwest journeys for folks farther from the coasts.

No matter your mode of transportation—be it van, RV, motorcycle, or four-door sedan—these are 21 of the best road trips in the nation to consider.

Plan your next Route 66 trip around thirst-quenching stops.

Photo by Peek Creative Collective/Shutterstock

There are many ways to do a cross-country road trip in the USA, but these two itineraries will take you through some truly iconic American places.

1. Chicago to Los Angeles: A Whiskey Road Trip on Route 66

It doesn’t get more American than a 2,000-mile drive along the entirety of Route 66. There are endless ways to take this legendary trip (including an EV version —but to take your cross-country road trip to the next level, we recommend exploring another American pastime: whiskey.

Starting in Chicago and ending in L.A., you’ll stop by some of the leading craft distilleries in the United States, like Few Spirits in Chicago, Still 630 in St. Louis, and Red Fork Distillery in Tulsa. In between tastings, make time for detours to natural attractions, like the Grand Canyon, and quirky roadside curiosities, like Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. Just remember to drink responsibly—this is a road trip after all.

Plan your trip

The full itinerary: Put a New Twist on Route 66—Make It an American Whiskey Road Trip

No cars are allowed on Mackinac Island, so you need to park before taking the ferry to this spot.

Photo from Shutterstock

2. Bangor, Maine, to Seattle, Washington: The Great Northern on U.S. Route 2

Covering both the U.S. and Canada, a cross-country trip along U.S. 2 is ideal for anyone who wants to experience the vast diversity and expansiveness of North America. This drive runs the entire top border of the U.S. and showcases otherworldly natural wonders like Acadia National Park in Maine, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin, and Mackinac Island in Michigan. The route also passes through Canada, taking road-trippers through Ontario into Quebec—this route may focus on nature, but you won’t want to miss a stop in Montreal or Ottawa.

You’ll also get to explore Montana and Glacier National Park ( reservations may be required ) before passing the Columbia Plateau and ending in the Pacific Northwest’s largest city, Seattle. Don’t miss spending time in the Olympic Peninsula (home to Olympic National Park) for a peek at one of the most scenic places on the West Coast.

3. Dana Point to San Francisco: Driving California’s Pacific Coast Highway

The seemingly endless views of the Pacific Ocean along Highway 1 (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway) are what road trip dreams are made of, and exactly what makes this California road trip so popular. However, with so many stops along the 655-mile stretch, we pulled together a list of the ones well worth pulling over to view. Don’t miss the perfect surfing waves in Santa Cruz, seasonal cuisine in Malibu, an afternoon a the boardwalk in Santa Monica, or a night in Big Sur as you drive between Dana Point (just south of Los Angeles) and San Francisco.

• The full itinerary: The Best Stops for a Road Trip on the Pacific Coast Highway
• The AFAR Guide to San Francisco

The seaside town of Monterey was the setting for John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row .

Photo by Denise Lett/Shutterstock

4. Big Sur to Mono County: A Literary Road Trip Through Northern California

Yes, this itinerary requires you actually put down your book to drive, but seeing some of the pivotal places that shaped American authors will be so worth it. Follow in the footsteps of writers like Jack Kerouac, Maya Angelou, and Amy Tan on this road trip that takes you through literary landmarks in Northern California, such as Caffe Trieste, a meeting place for Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Alan Watts, and other bohemian writers and thinkers. This 12-stop itinerary is perfect if you live in the San Francisco Bay Area because you’ll be able to stay make these trips in one or two days.

The full itinerary: The California Road Trip All Book Lovers Should Take

Arizona may take its nickname from the Grand Canyon, but the state has far more natural wonders than just that one.

Courtesy of Shutterstock

5. Phoenix to the Grand Canyon: An Iconic Arizona Road Trip

This 240-mile Arizona road trip takes travelers along some of the state’s most iconic highlights, including its most famous one, the Grand Canyon. A great itinerary for first-time visitors and returning travelers alike, it offers plenty of opportunities for scenic drives, hiking, and biking—as well as tasty food along the way. Hike the 2,704-foot-tall Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale or take in the beautiful red rocks of Sedona on a hike to Cathedral Rock while exploring the Grand Canyon State.

• The full itinerary: The Classic 5-Day Arizona Road Trip
• Grand Canyon guide: The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon
• Where to eat in Phoenix: A Chef’s Guide to the Best Restaurants
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Arizona ; The Best Airbnbs in Sedona

The Delicate Arch living up to its name in Utah’s Arches National Park

Photo by tusharkoley / Shutterstock

6. Zion to Grand Canyon: A National Parks Road Trip in the Southwest

If you’re looking to visit as many national parks as possible in one road trip, this southwestern itinerary is for you. This journey through Utah and Arizona lets you hike Angel’s Landing in Zion, feel tiny under Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, explore Fairyland Loop Trail in Bryce Canyon, and, of course, raft down the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. Most visitors to the Grand Canyon remain on the rim, but take at least four days to venture within the canyon and take advantage of the trails and river rafting.

• The full itinerary: The Ideal Road Trip Through U.S. National Parks
• Utah’s 8 Best National Parks and Monuments
• 10 Best National Parks and Monuments in Arizona
• The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon

Stop and admire the winding roads of the San Juan Skyway.

Photo by Anh Luu/Shutterstock

7. San Juan Scenic Skyway Road Trip: An Adventure Through Southwestern Colorado

This Colorado trip takes you along the 232-mile loop of the San Juan Scenic Skyway, where you will see plenty of alpine forests, mining towns, and craggy peaks. And for anyone looking to enjoy refreshments after a long day of driving, this route features many opportunities to stop at some of the best breweries in Colorado , such as Ska Brewing Co. in Durango.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Southwestern Colorado Road Trip
• Five Classic Colorado Road Trips To Take This Year

In small-town Buena Vista, the riverfront Surf Hotel offers front-row seats to Colorado-style adventure seekers.

Courtesy of the Surf Hotel

8. Denver to Montrose: A 420-Mile Road Trip Through Colorado

Want to explore even more of the Centennial State? Head out on this weeklong road trip where you can fish for salmon in Colorado’s largest reservoir, visit numerous small towns, like Paonia and Crawford, with thriving art scenes along the Colorado Creative Corridor , and explore Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, one of the least visited national parks in the nation.

• The full itinerary: Art Stars, High-Altitude Wines, and a Remote National Park: The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Colorado
• The AFAR Guide to Denver

Portland may be Oregon’s largest city, but with a population of some 652,000 (or 2.5 million in the larger metropolitan area), it isn’t intimidatingly large.

Photo courtesy of Travel Portland

9. Portland to Astoria: An Oregon Coast Road Trip for Outdoor Lovers

If you love the outdoors, then this six-day road trip along the coast of Oregon is for you. After driving to Coos Bay from Portland, travelers will meander along Oregon’s dramatic, rocky coastline, discovering some quintessentially Pacific Northwest vistas along the way: evergreen forests, seaside dunes, and marine ecosystems. Between stops, there are ample opportunities to stretch your legs hiking, kayaking, or strolling around the region’s small towns—like the historic old town in Florence.

Of course, it wouldn’t be an Oregon road trip without a stop (or three) at a craft brewery, such as Fort George Brewery in Astoria, or cozy coffee shop, like Bread & Roses in Yachats.

• The full itinerary: An Outdoor Lover’s Road Trip on the Oregon Coast
• The AFAR Guide to Portland

The State Capitol Building in Nashville marks the end of this road (trip).

Photo by photo.ua / Shutterstock

10. Seneca Falls, New York, to Nashville, Tennessee: Follow the Path of the Women’s Suffrage Movement

Starting in New York’s Finger Lakes region and ending at the State Capitol Building in Nashville, this road trip traces the route of the national women’s suffrage movement. Highlights include stops at the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House ; Union Square in New York City, which was the site of the first suffrage march; and the Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument in Washington, D.C.

• The full itinerary: Celebrate Women’s Suffrage on an Epic, Self-Guided Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Washington, D.C.

Asheville is one must-stop on a North Carolina road trip.

Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

11. Charlottesville to Asheville: A Scenic Road Trip Through Virginia and North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the country. Beginning in the soft hilly meadows of the Appalachian Mountains from Shenandoah National Park down into the Blue Ridge Mountains, then into the Great Smoky Mountains, this five-day road trip is best done at a slower pace, which is perfect for admiring the dramatic outlooks and green plateaus. This eclectic itinerary features stops at an art museum, a dairy farm, and plenty of hiking trails.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip
• Where to stay: 12 Dreamy Blue Ridge Mountain Cabins You Can Rent on Airbnb and Vrbo
• 8 U.S. National Park Road Trips to Take in Your Lifetime

Dowa:kwe dance group from Zuni Pueblo in 2019

Courtesy of Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

12. Albuquerque to Las Cruces: Discover New Mexico on This Three-Day Road Trip

This route steers you away from New Mexican tourist hot spots like Taos and Santa Fe and instead takes you on a three-day adventure with places that teach you about Pueblo history. You’ll stop at Indian Pueblo Kitchen (formerly known as Pueblo Harvest), a restaurant inside the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center that features Indigenous cuisine ; pick up peppers at Three Brothers in Hatch; and slide down the dunes in White Sands National Park.

• The full itinerary: This New Mexico Road Trip Is the Perfect Introduction to the Land of Enchantment

Historic Fort Martin Scott is one of the places travelers can visit to learn about Fredericksburg’s history.

Photo by Mark König/Unsplash

13. A Five-Day Scenic Road Trip Through Texas Hill Country

This Texas road trip starts and ends in San Antonio with stops in small towns like Bandera, Boerne, and consider a stop in Fredericksburg, which is one of AFAR’s best places to go in 2024 ). Over five days, you’ll find opportunities to stroll in a Japanese tea garden in San Antonio, relax along the Sabinal and Frio Rivers by inner tube, and eat as many tacos as you want. Seriously: You could eat tacos for every meal on this road trip and not get tired of them.

• The full itinerary: Tree Houses, Tubing, and Tacos: The Ultimate Texas Hill Country Road Trip

Mount McKinley looms large on a drive through Denali National Park.

Photo by warnsweet / Shutterstock

14. A Weeklong Road Trip Through Alaska’s Most Majestic Sights

This weeklong drive in Alaska starts and ends in Anchorage. You travel along four scenic byways; explore Wrangell–St. Elias wilderness, the largest U.S. national park; catch sight of Denali, the tallest peak in North America; and enjoy the surprisingly stellar food scene of McCarthy, a one-road town with only a couple dozen residents.

• The full itinerary: Glaciers, Mountain Peaks, and Organic Farms: The Ultimate Alaska Road Trip
• Which Alaska National Parks Should You Visit?

More than geothermal pools, Kirkham Hot Springs features a piping-hot waterfall.

Courtesy of Idaho Tourism

15. Boise to Sun Valley: Explore Idaho’s Scenic Byways

Even a short road trip can be packed with adventure, good food, and scenery, which is exactly what this trip from Boise to Sun Valley along Idaho’s Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway offers. Although the drive only takes six hours, we recommend taking a few days to explore all the stops and detours along the way. One can’t-miss spot is the Kirkham Hot Springs , where you can stand under a waterfall that will splash you with 135-degree mineral water year-round.

• The full itinerary: The Little-Known Idaho Road Trip You Need to Drive
• Things to do: The Best Outdoorsy Things to Do in Idaho

Grand Portage State Park is the only state park jointly managed by a state and a Native American band.

Photo by Shutterstock/QZ

16. Duluth to Grand Portage State Park: A Scenic Minnesota Sampler

Although there are many appealing road trips throughout the Midwest, this 143-mile, three-hour circuit, which starts and ends in Duluth, Minnesota, is worth keeping in mind. Meandering north on MN-61 with this itinerary, you will enjoy prime views of Lake Superior and towns like Grand Marais, as well as Grand Portage State Park, home to waterfalls, hiking trails, and opportunities to learn about the Ojibwe community who occupy the land today. Once back in Duluth, enjoy a beer at Canal Park Brewing Company before checking into the waterfront Canal Park Lodge nearby.

• The AFAR Guide to Minnesota

Wind your way through colorful foliage in New Hampshire.

Photo by Shutterstock

17. Kancamagus Highway: A Quintessential New England Drive

Yes, you can take a road trip in New England at any time of the year , but this region shows off its best colors in the fall, when locals and tourists alike head out into the country to view the changing colors of the trees. Join other admirers of fall foliage on this popular, 34.5-mile road trip along New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway, colloquially known as the “Kanc,” for picturesque ponds, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks.

• Plan Your Fall Getaway With This Peak Foliage Prediction Map

Ogunquit is home to the small, postcard-perfect harbor of Perkins Cove.

Photo courtesy of QualityHD / Shutterstock

18. Maine’s “Lobster Trail”: Travel Route 1 Along the Coast

Traveling Route 1, affectionately known as “the lobster trail,” along Maine’s jagged coastline is an exercise in indulgence. Sample lobster dishes in all forms—buttered, steamed, on a roll, or even in a decadent mac-and-cheese.

The trip starts in the quaint small town of Ogunquit , with its rare (for the area) 3.5 miles of white-sand beach. Make your first lobster of the journey count, steamed with a side of drawn butter at Barnacle Billy’s in picturesque Perkins Cove harbor. Stop at Big Daddy’s for a cone on your way to the shipbuilding center—and summer home of George H. W. Bush—Kennebunkport. Stay at the recently redesigned 150-year-old classic White Barn Inn , and consider a sailing trip for an afternoon. With lobsters cooked in ocean water, the legendary lobster roll at the Clam Shack is a must.

• 8 Scenic East Coast Road Trips to Take This Year

Throughout North Carolina’s Piedmont region, innovative restaurants, shops, and restaurants like Leah & Louise in Charlotte, above, are creating a buzz.

Photo by Peter Taylor Photography

19. Raleigh to Charlotte: A 4-Day Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

North Carolina’s Piedmont region extends from the coastal plain to the Blue Ridge Mountains, and includes farmland and rolling wooded hills, especially on the 1-40 stretch near Hillsborough. Starting in Raleigh, drive the short distances to Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Charlotte to see how these cities are innovating through art, food, and a celebration of the past. Take your time—four days should do—to experience downtown arts districts, James Beard Award–winning restaurants, and civil rights museums that speak truths. Plan your trip

• A Road Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

Scenic South Walton is part of the Emerald Coast of Florida.

20. Scenic Highway 30A: A Sunday Drive Through South Walton, Florida

Florida is full of places to cruise with the top down, but it’s hard to beat a Sunday (or any day) drive along Scenic Highway 30A through northwest Florida, home to a postcard-perfect stretch of seaside towns known as South Walton.

The roughly 28-mile route through South Walton County kisses the coast for nearly all its length, taking you through gorgeous residential Gulf-front communities like Rosemary Beach, Grayton Beach, and Blue Mountain Beach . Roll down the windows and let the emerald-hued views in.

Pull over to explore, too—maybe to admire the New Urbanism architecture in Alys Beach or to swim in the clear waters at Grayton Beach State Park . (The beach here has been lauded among the best in the world.)

• The full itinerary: The Florida Road Trip You’ve Been Missing

Stand-up paddleboarding is just one way to enjoy a Florida Keys sunset.

Shutterstock

21. The Florida Keys: An Island-Hopping Getaway

For a sunny road trip itinerary in Florida, skip Miami and head farther south. Beginning in Key Largo and ending in Key West, the Florida Keys Scenic Highway is often overlooked for more well-known routes up north, but it is well worth going out of your way to experience.

As the name suggests, this route is very scenic, so plan to spend at least a few days exploring it and numerous stops along the way. Some highlights include driving across the impressive Overseas Highway, stopping to admire art in the town of Islamorada, and enjoying the historic sites, food, and (of course) beaches in the city of Key West.

• The full itinerary: How to Road Trip in the Lesser-Known Florida Keys

Sun Studio in Memphis was the site of the famous Million Dollar recording session that brought together Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Johnny Cash.

Photo by f11photo on Shutterstock

22. Memphis to Bristol, Tennessee: A Music-Driven Adventure

If you have about a week to spare and a deep appreciation for music, take a road trip from one side of Tennessee to the other, starting in Memphis and ending in Bristol. The eastbound trip spans genres, including rock ( Graceland ), blues ( Beale Street) and, of course, country (did you really go to Tennessee if you didn’t go to Dollywood ?). Nashville serves as the halfway point on your journey—so consider penciling in an extra 48 hours to fully explore the state capital’s greatest hits.

• The full itinerary: 5 Great American Road Trips For Music Fans

The stunning coastline near Cueva del Indio has been the backdrop of star-studded films.

Photo by Alexsf.gr/Shutterstock

23. Arecibo to Condado, Puerto Rico: A Lesser-Known Side of a Well-Loved Island

In the minds of many, trips to Puerto Rico bring images of stunning beaches , delicious foods , and maybe a bioluminescent bay or two . But there’s plenty of history to be found here, too, as Puerto Rico was home to an Indigenous population known as the Taino, a heritage many Puerto Ricans embrace. That history can be explored via a road trip. Starting in the northern town of Arecibo, travel south to Ponce, then back north to Condado—along the way you’ll encounter petroglyphs, Indigenous sites, and breathtaking natural spots.

• The full itinerary: A Puerto Rico Road Trip That Puts Indigenous Culture First

Additional road trip planning resources Picking the route for your road trip is only one part of your planning. From what snacks to pack to which podcasts to listen to, these additional resources will help you prepare for your next adventure:

• Best road trip snacks
• Road trip planning apps
• Podcasts and audiobooks to download
• What to pack for a road trip

This article originally appeared online in August 2020. It was most recently updated on April 4, 2024, to include current information. Additional reporting by Jessie Beck, Erika Owen, Ray Rogers, Terry Ward, and Sheryl Nance-Nash.

25 Best Road Trips in the USA (Itinerary Ideas + Tips!)

If there’s one travel bucket list experience that our home country of the United States is best for, it’s road trips.

From small towns to big cities, from mountain ranges to deserts, from forests to plains, and from sea to shining sea, there is no shortage of epic destinations for road trips in the USA.

We’ve taken USA road trips in about 30 of the 50 states ourselves (and hope to finish them all off one day!).

To help fill in the gaps, we asked fellow travel bloggers to share some of their favorites for this Great American road trips blog post.

They delivered an enormous variety of USA road trip itinerary ideas, from weekend trip options to weeks-long excursions!

Dreaming of taking a road trip in the United States and not sure where you want to go?

This list of exciting USA road trip itinerary ideas will help you decide where to hit the open road next! 

Table of Contents

Quick Tips for Your USA Road Trip

Cross-country usa road trip ideas, southern road trips in the usa, united states road trip ideas in the west, east coast road trips in the usa, central usa road trip routes, non-continental usa road trips.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Before we dive into exploring the best USA road trips, there are a few tips to be aware of–especially if you’re visiting as an international tourist and haven’t explored the United States before!

If you’re renting a car, shop around.

The best company to rent a car from for your United States road trip will likely vary dramatically depending on where and when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits.

Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your USA road trip.

Browse rental cars for your American road trip today!

Read the rental requirements carefully.

Especially make sure you know how many miles you’ve been allotted (or ideally, if they’re unlimited), if you need to return the car empty or full of fuel, what to do if the car breaks down, and what damages you’re liable for in the event of an accident.

On the off chance that you’re planning on continuing your road trip into Canada or Mexico , be sure to check any requirements for crossing the border as well.

Book travel insurance.

We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen on the road, and an epic road trip is definitely a case of better safe than sorry.

Check prices and inclusions with Safety Wing for road trips in the USA!

Don’t underestimate how sparsely populated parts of the USA are.

If this is your first time visiting the USA, you may be surprised to see just how long you can drive in the United States without coming across a town or even a gas station–especially out west.

Be sure to keep an eye on your directions, and fill up your gas tank before heading into any particularly unpopulated areas!

Make sure you pack the right gear.

From safety gear to snacks, a big USA road trip requires bringing the right tools along, whether you’re taking a short vacation, diving into van life , or somewhere in between.

We recommend taking a look at the suggestions in our road trip packing list before you go!

Consider bringing your sleeping arrangements along with you.

It’s not right for everyone, but there’s a reason that using an RV or campervan is such a classic American road trip experience!

And, you don’t need to dive into the RV lifestyle and buy one for your next trip in order to try it out: you can try out the experience by renting RVs and camper vans from Outdoorsy .

Browse RVs available to rent with Outdoorsy today!

If possible, stop in at least one national park!

Our home country is filled with an enormous number of interesting and beautiful places, but perhaps none shine quite as brightly as our national park system.

Want to climb sand dunes? We have that.

Marvel at glaciers? Check.

Hike across mountains? Take your pick.

Go scuba diving? Definitely.

Admire the power of incredible geysers? Got that, too.

Whatever kind of outdoor wonder you have in mind, you can find it at one of the most beautiful national parks in America !

From Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders

Route 66 is the quintessential American road trip, inspiring songs, movies, and novels.

Starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, Route 66 passes through nine states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, and California.

Some of the best things to do on the route are enjoying the kitschy 1950s motels, gas stations, and restaurants that harken back to the days of the Great American Road Trip.

You’ll also find tons of quirky roadside attractions like the Catoosa Whale, Cadillac Ranch , and the Twin Arrows that are must-sees.

If you want to enjoy some nature along the way, you can visit the Grand Canyon or Petrified Forrest National Park.

The most typical way to explore Route 66 is to start in Chicago and drive all the way to Santa Monica, but there are many who drive smaller portions of it or go from west-to-east instead of east-to-west.

There’s no single “right” way to make the drive. Just make sure you enjoy yourself as you go!

Recommended Road Trip Length

Because the route is so long and there’s so much to see, it’s recommended you spend two weeks exploring it one way.

New York to Los Angeles

Driving across the United States from New York to Los Angeles is one of those classic American road trip routes that, quite honestly, is not suited to most USA vacations–you’ll be looking at a lot  of cornfields and open plains along the way and spend many days on the road.

… But that being said, the legend and myth of this USA road trip route endure because it does make for quite the adventure!

With nearly 3,000 miles of driving to do between NYC and LA, you have extreme flexibility to create your own USA road trip itinerary!

However, the most direct route (a mere 44 hours of drive time, not including stops and traffic!) will take you to Chicago, across the open fields of Iowa and Nebraska, through some stunning nature in Colorado and Utah, and right through Las Vegas before delivering you to the beauty of the Pacific Ocean.

If you’re open to detours, plenty of national parks will be within your reach on this USA road trip, including Rocky Mountain National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, Zion National Park, and even the Grand Canyon!

If you’d like to enjoy a coast-to-coast road trip in the USA, we recommend setting aside at least two weeks to ensure you have enough time to experience the route along the way (and avoid spending too many days at a time looking at nothing but highways)!

Blue Ridge Parkway

From Carl of NC Tripping

If you’re exploring the western parts of North Carolina or Virginia , the Blue Ridge Parkway is always lingering somewhere nearby.

It’s the most popular road trip between the two states and connects two of the United States’ most-visited national parks, Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Shenandoah National Park.

At 469 miles in length, this road will take some time to explore !

Narrowing things down to a few places you must visit is tough, but here are some “musts.” 

Moving north to south, highlights on the Virginia side include Humpback Rocks (Milepost 5), Mabry Mill (MP 176), Peaks of Otter (MP 85), and the Blue Ridge Music Center (MP 213).

Across the border in North Carolina, you at least need to see Linville Falls (316), Craggy Gardens (MP 364), Graveyard Fields (418), and Oconoluftee (MP 469) at the end of the line.

Of course, there are more spots scattered throughout that are within a short drive of the Parkway , such as the ever-popular Asheville, NC , the Biltmore Estate , and more charming mountain towns than you can count.

That, along with its length, is why this is one USA road trip that will take some time, if ever, for you to complete. 

Please note that some areas of the Blue Ridge Parkway close during winter through parts of spring. The NPS is pretty good about keeping information up to date on their website .

While you can drive the Blue Ridge Parkway in less time, ideally, if you want to hike and explore along the route, a week is a great starting point for this USA road trip route.

Kentucky Bourbon Trail

From Katie-Beth of Her Life in Ruins

Who doesn’t love a nice glass of bourbon?

On the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, you tour 18 different distilleries, try multiple bourbons (and other treats) at each, and take in tons of bottled-up history throughout the gorgeous Bluegrass State. 

While there is no official route for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, stay in either Lexington or Louisville as a “home base” for the experience, as all of the distilleries are within a few hours’ drive of these cities (some are mere minutes!).

Each day, pick 4-5 distilleries to visit, starting when they open in the morning and touring until they close.

Try to do the distilleries that are closest together on the same days (less driving and easier to get from one place to another).

If you’re a serious drinker, there are some bus tours that will chauffeur you throughout the Trail!

You’re never given more than about 2 ounces of alcohol at each distillery, but you may want a designated driver just in case.

On the drive between distilleries, you’ll see the rolling hills of Kentucky, some of our famous horse farms, and, of course, rick houses holding millions of gallons of the delicious spirit. 

In order to visit all of the distilleries, I recommend spending 4-6 days on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

Southeast Coastal Road Trip

The stretch of coastline running from St. Augustine, Florida to the Outer Banks of North Carolina is packed with beautiful sights, historic cities, and laid-back beach towns.

We consider this area one of our personal favorites for road trips in the USA, and we’ve taken dozens of road trips in the region!

Start in St. Augustine, founded in 1565 by Spanish settlers and one of the most historic cities in the USA.

Explore its beautiful Castillo de San Marcos, check out the Fountain of Youth, relax on the beach, and explore the Colonial Quarter.

From there, head north to Savannah , where you can enjoy its incredible architecture and town squares, and then move on to Charleston , where you’ll find compelling American history and the lovely Folley Beach.

As you move up the coast, consider detouring for brief stops in Beaufort, South Carolina and/or Hilton Head Island, before heading into North Carolina.

Historic Wilmington and New Bern are always worth a look as you pass by, and while you’ll need to head all the way up to Kitty Hawk and Nag’s Head to experience the classic Outer Banks destinations, the Crystal Coast ( Emerald Isle , Morehead City, Beaufort , Atlantic Beach , etc.) has been my family’s haunt for generations and is also well worth experiencing.

And, the Crystal Coast also happens to be closer geographically to the rest of the stops on this United States road trip itinerary!

Want to continue north to the Outer Banks?

Ocracoke Island, Nags Head, Duck, Kitty Hawk (famously home to the Wright Brothers’ first-ever flight!) and more are all ready to welcome you.

We recommend spending about 10 days enjoying this USA road trip route.

Orlando to New Orleans Road Trip

From Christine of Live Love Run Travel

Driving from Orlando to New Orleans  gives you plenty of options for stops along the way as well as enough to fill up an entire vacation at the starting point and ending point of the road trip.

From natural springs to beaches to caverns, there is plenty to see along this route to break up the trip.

Orlando is of course known for its iconic theme parks including Disney and Universal Studios.

However, Orlando and Florida also offer plenty of natural highlights including the natural springs.

On the way from Orlando to New Orleans , stop at Rainbow Springs, Silver Springs, or Ginnie Springs along I-75.

Once you get onto I-10, make sure to stop at Florida Caverns State Park for a unique Florida experience.

Plus, if you are taking this trip in the summer, you’ll appreciate the cooler air in the caverns!

Along I-10, there are also plenty of opportunities to stop for some time at the beach.

Consider Pensacola, Florida, or the Gulf Shores, Alabama, or any of Mississippi’s beaches to avoid a long drive off the main road.

From there you are in New Orleans where you can enjoy the bayou, lots of amazing food and live music, and plenty of history and beautiful architecture in the various districts within the city.

The length of this road trip depends on a few factors including how long you want to spend in Orlando and New Orleans.

The drive itself only takes about 9 hours, but if you want to spend time at the springs, beaches, and caverns, stretch it out to a 2 or 3 day drive, with a few days on either end to explore Orlando and New Orleans.

Washington State

From Katie of Two Wandering Soles

With rugged driftwood-strewn beaches, snowcapped peaks, small towns, and major cities, Washington State is a true gem.

Home to incredibly diverse landscapes and endless adventures to be had, this Pacific Northwest destination is one of the best places to take a road trip in the United States. 

Start by  exploring Seattle (if you have the time) because there is plenty to do in this PNW hub. But when you’re ready to get out of the city, head straight to the Olympic Peninsula .

With temperate rainforests, waterfalls, remote beaches, and a towering mountain range, Olympic National Park is arguably the most diverse swath of land in the state, if not one of the most unique places in the country, and is the perfect place to try out some hikes in Washington .

Another drive well worth your while is to head northeast toward the iconic Mount Baker.

If you have the time, continue north to Highway 20 which brings you into the breathtaking North Cascades National Park.

Make photo stops along the way (like at the spectacularly beautiful turquoise waters of Lake Diablo), set off on epic hikes, and refuel at the small towns along the way.

Eventually, you’ll reach Lake Chelan , which is a perfect spot to cool off on a hot summer day.

From Lake Chelan, you have a stunning drive on Highway 2 back to Seattle with many more opportunities for exploring small towns and hiking along the way, if time allows. 

If you want to cover this whole route, you should allow 1.5 – 2 weeks. If you have less time, shorten your USA road trip itinerary accordingly.

Southwest Colorado Road Trip

From Tanya of Rad Family Travel

Exploring Southwest Colorado on a memorable summer road trip through the mountains offers adventure in every direction.

Sand-sled through Great Sand Dunes National Park, drive breath-taking mountain passes, soak and swim in hot springs, and climb ladders to ancient Puebloan dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park.

From there, imagine taking a jeep ride to old mining towns, biking along scenic trails, and hiking among wildflowers.

Arrive in Telluride in style via a free gondola, go whitewater rafting or alpine sliding, sleep under the stars, and top it all off with local burgers and cold brews.

In other words: whatever kind of outdoor adventure you’re looking for, southwest Colorado has you covered.

A Southwest Colorado road trip highlights diverse outdoor fun in Great Sand Dunes National Park, Pagosa Springs, Durango, Mesa Verde National Park, Telluride, Ridgway, Ouray, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Crested Butte, and Buena Vista.

Choose from tent camping, cabins, or hotels, or a mixture thereof, for lodging along the way.

Allow at least nine to ten days for this epic southwest Colorado Road Trip , starting from Colorado Springs.

If you prefer slower travel and lots of outdoor adventure, consider making it a fourteen-day loop by staying longer in Ouray, Crested Butte, and Buena Vista — and really delve into these sweet mountain towns . 

Utah’s Mighty Five

From Ali of Travel Made Simple

Utah is home to five amazing national parks, all close enough to each other to visit on one iconic national parks road trip .

These national parks are Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion. Since they’re all in the southern half of the state, you can drive in a loop to get to them all.

This also works well as part of a bigger  southwestern US road trip .

If you’re short on time or not in great shape, you can see a lot by driving or taking park shuttles, where available.

Hop out at designated parking lots, lookout points, or shuttle stops, take pictures, and go for a short walk.

For more activity, each park has hiking trails for beginners to expert-level hikers.

You can see the highlights of each park in about a day, but allow more time at any park where you want to experience more hiking.

Start and end in Las Vegas and drive counterclockwise.

Since driving from Las Vegas to Moab , where Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park are located, is quite long, consider stopping in Page, AZ (home of the famous Horseshoe Bend ), or Monument Valley on the AZ/UT border. Or both!

From Moab, drive to Capitol Reef National Park, then Bryce Canyon National Park , and lastly Zion National Park before heading back to Vegas.

If you prefer, you can also do this route in reverse!

Give yourself at least a week to do this road trip, or longer if you’re stopping in Page and/or Monument Valley.

South Dakota

If you’re craving wide open spaces, plenty of buffalo and prairie dog sightings, gorgeous caves, and a quirky roadside stop or two, then South Dakota is the American road trip for you!

Driving from east to west (though you can easily reverse it), pay a quick visit to Sioux Falls and then The World’s Only Corn Palace (their words, not mine) before diving into Badlands National Park.

Drive the Badlands National Park scenic loop, do some hiking (the Notch Trail is not to be missed), and when you’re ready for a break, detour to Wall Drug for a heavy dose of kitsch.

Head north to visit the Wild West town of Deadwood, and if you’re up for it, detour into Wyoming for a quick visit to Devil’s Tower, the first US national monument!

Back in South Dakota, base yourself in or around Keystone to explore Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Wind Cave National Park, and–if you have time–Spearfish Canyon.

Going inside Wind Cave National Park requires a guided tour, so be sure to book in advance!

Determined road-trippers can do justice to this South Dakota road trip route in about 5 days, though 7 allows for a bit more hiking and a chance to add on places like Rapid City.

South Dakota is also perfectly located for combining with road trips in Wyoming and beyond, so you can easily use this route as a building block for a bigger US road trip itinerary!

Scenic I-90 from Portland to Yellowstone

From Catherine of Passports and Adventures

Visiting Yellowstone National Park from Portland, Oregon is easy and there is no better route to take than the scenic I-90.

This 812-mile trip starts from Portland and takes the I-84 along the very beautiful Columbia River Gorge.

As you get started, stop at Multnomah Falls to photograph the famous waterfall!

Continue to Richland where you could rest overnight before jumping onto the I-90, the longest interstate in the United States.

This interstate highway passes Spokane before trailing alongside the lake of Coeur d’Alene, a beautiful part of the country, and then snakes through the Nez Pearce-Clearwater National Forests.

Imagine a highway surrounded by forests on either side, and you have an idea of what this part of I-90 is like.

A great town to stop along the I-90 is Missoula, which sits along the Clark Fork River and has plenty on offer including a great park, Caras Park where families and visitors can unwind.

After Missoula, continue along the I-90 and join Highway 287 which will take you to West Yellowstone to start your visit to the first national park.

This route from Portland to Yellowstone is 812 miles via these interstates and highways and could be done in two days but is best enjoyed over a few days before your  Yellowstone vacation .

As you get close to the national park, you can also find some great camping near Yellowstone along this route.

Northern New Mexico

From Stella Jane of Around the World in 24 Hours

Northern New Mexico is one of the most beautiful places in the United States to have a road trip.

The weather is gorgeous and sunny at almost any time of year, and many of the state’s most interesting places are just an hour’s drive away from each other!

Start the road trip in the state’s largest city, Albuquerque. Almost all people arriving in New Mexico start here because this is where the major airport is located.

Tourism in Albuquerque has really taken off since the show  Breaking Bad  was filmed here, but those who are not  Breaking Bad  fans will still love seeing Albuquerque’s charming Old Town.

If you’re lucky enough to be able to plan your trip around the famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta , you won’t be sorry you did!

After a couple of days in Albuquerque, drive an hour up to Santa Fe and spend a couple of days here. This is New Mexico’s capital and its most beautiful city.

You can stop for a bath in the hot springs at Ten Thousand Waves and see the historic Spanish Colonial Palace of the Governors. 

Finally, check out some smaller towns like Los Alamos, where the atomic bomb was developed, Chimayo, which is a popular pilgrimage site, and Taos, where you can visit a Native American pueblo that’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You’ll be amazed at how much Northern New Mexico has to offer!

I recommend spending about a week on this USA road trip route.

Denver to Yellowstone Loop

Starting from Denver, you can easily craft a fantastic road trip plan.

USA national parks are in abundance in the west, but from Denver, you can hit three of the most legendary in short order: Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and the ever-popular Yellowstone National Park.

For your first stop, base yourself in the beautiful mountain town of Estes Park , where you can access some of the best hikes in RMNP while also enjoying this idyllic mountain town.

From there, head up to Yellowstone to enjoy a few days of geysers, geothermal pools, wildlife spotting, and utterly unique views.

On your way back to Denver, head to Grand Teton National Park to visit highlights like Jenny Lake, enjoy some hiking, and soak in iconic views like those along Mormon Row.

Don’t miss the chance to spend a bit of time in Jackson Hole, one of the USA’s most iconic mountain towns, while you’re there!

We recommend setting aside at least a week for this all-American road trip–if you’d like to spend some time in Denver, a full two weeks is best.

San Francisco to Yosemite Loop

From Julie of More Than Main Street

Typically, you think of the Pacific Coast Highway when you think of the best California road trips, right? Well…consider something a little different!

This 10 day California road trip , forming a loop from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park and back, is one of the best road trips in the USA.

You’ll get the best of big-city excitement, some time by the ocean, beautiful scenic vistas, and outdoor fun galore!

After spending a few days in San Francisco , hit up Monterey, Carmel, and part of the Pacific Coast Highway.

Can’t-miss destinations include the Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, Alcatraz, Big Sur, and the world-class Monterey Aquarium.

Next head east over to Yosemite National Park for some incredible hiking, followed by a little wine tasting in Sonoma or Napa Valley, a stop in Muir Woods to see the giant redwoods, then finally back to San Francisco.

This road trip is perfect for families, couples, or even solo travelers and is guaranteed to be one you won’t forget!

You’ll need at least 10 days to do justice to this epic California road trip.

The American Southwest from Las Vegas

Thanks to inexpensive flights, a convenient location in southern Nevada, and its widespread appeal, Las Vegas is a fantastic place to kick off a road trip through the southwest!

With Las Vegas as a starting point, head off to Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada before making your way to the ultimate USA road trip destination: the Grand Canyon.

From there, loop up to Moab to explore Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, head west to visit Bryce Canyon National Park , and then move onto Zion before circling back to Vegas.

With extra time, you can add on more exciting stops in Arizona and Utah like Monument Valley, Page (home of Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend ), Capitol Reef National Park, Goblin Valley State Park, and more.

Ten days is a good starting place for this American road trip, but you can do an abridged version in one week, and the sky is the limit as far as how long you can take to explore every nook, cranny, and slot canyon in the region!

New York State Road Trip

From Melissa of Navigation Junkie

The route from Buffalo, NY to New York City is full of great attractions and small towns to explore, and the variety of stops along the way will be sure to entertain every member of the family!

To begin the journey, start at Niagara Falls in Buffalo, NY.

See the roaring power of the American and Canadian falls, and if you are up for it, take a ride on the Maid of the Mist to get up close and personal with the falls.

After visiting the falls continue on to Letchworth State Park, the Grand Canyon of the East, for a day of hiking and enjoying nature.

Continue on to   Rochester, NY , where you will find a variety of fun attractions, history, and nature experiences.

The next stop along the route is the Finger Lakes region, where you can enjoy the lakes, waterfalls, and some wine tasting.

From there, head to Saratoga Springs, known for horse racing and mineral baths.

After visiting Saratoga Springs, continue on to the Catskills Region, where you will find plenty of scenic views and hiking trails for hikers of all abilities.

Finish up your road trip in New York City, where you can visit the Statue of Liberty, The World Trade Center Memorial, Central Park, and Times Square, among many other iconic attractions!

We recommend taking a minimum of one week to fully experience all stops along this USA road trip route.

Miami to Key West Road Trip

From Hannah & Adam Lukaszewicz of Getting Stamped

If you’re looking for a tropical road trip, consider making the drive from Miami to Key West .

On this US road trip, you’ll travel through the islands that make up the Florida Keys on the “Overseas Highway.”

It’s said to be one of the best road trips in the country!

While the drive to Key West isn’t too far (165 miles), the stops and the scenic beauty along the way are what make it worthwhile. The road trip is full of fun and quirky things to do and see!

The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the Spiegel Grove Shipwreck are two great spots for exploring under the surface, where you’ll find coral reefs, sea life, and a sunken Navy ship.

For above the water, consider taking a cruise on The Africa Queen through the canals of Key Largo. 

There are great restaurants and bars along the way too.

Some popular stops include Plantation Key’s Mile Marker 88 Beach & Bar for all the tiki vibes, Islamorada Beer Company, and Robbie’s Restaurant, where you can feed tarpons from the dock. 

This road trip is best for a weekend (2-3 days).

New England

Made up of some of the USA’s smallest states, the northeast region of New England is one of the best places for a road trip in the USA.

Featuring historic cities (hello Boston !), adorable small towns, a rugged coastline, gorgeous harbors, and plenty of lighthouses, New England spots a charm and culture all its own.

Consider starting and ending your New England road trip in Boston, the region’s largest city and airport hub, where you can walk the Freedom Trail, stroll cobblestone lanes, and visit some of the most impressive universities and museums in the country.

From there, make your way to beautiful Acadia National Park in Maine, stopping at charming coastal villages like Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and Kennebunkport, Maine along the way–plus of course, a stop in the charming city of Portland.

On your way back south, drop by the White Mountain National Forest, and beautiful towns like Stowe, Vermont (legendary for its fall foliage) and Woodstock.

If you have time, head south of Massachusetts before heading back to Boston, visiting the Gilded Age mansions in Newport, Rhode Island, and the idyllic small town of Mystic, Connecticut.

To take a USA road trip through all six New England states, two weeks or more is best. 

However, with less time you can easily pick and choose a couple of states to visit and still have an amazing road trip experience!

Texas Hill Country

Tucked into the central part of the Lone Star State, west of both Austin and San Antonio, lies an oasis of beauty.

Visit the Texas Hill Country for sparkling rivers, charming small towns, incredible hiking, beautiful waterfalls, excellent Texas barbecue , magnificent wildflowers, and more wineries and distilleries than you can count.

Some of the best things to do in the Texas Hill Country include visiting the town of Fredericksburg, which is known for its German heritage, enjoying a wine tasting, exploring beautiful Wimberley, climbing Enchanted Rock, exploring dramatic limestone caves, sampling barbecue, and visiting some of the best swimming holes near Austin , including the legendary Hamilton Pool and Jacob’s Well.

Be sure to save time for a couple of state parks, as well!

In addition to Enchanted Rock, popular state parks in the Hill Country include Garner State Park, Guadalupe River State Park, and Colorado Bend State Park (home to 70-foot Gorman Falls).

The lakes are also unforgettable: don’t miss a chance to admire the beauty of Canyon Lake or Lake Travis during this incredible US road trip!

Even if you only have one day, it’s worth taking a quick Texas Hill Country road trip–but ideally, we recommend setting aside a week to explore.

While you can visit year-round, bluebonnet season (roughly late March-April) is undoubtedly the most scenic time to visit!

Northwest Arkansas

Packed with beautiful forests, idyllic hot springs, historic towns, and a lesser-known but beautiful national park, Northwest Arkansas is the perfect option for travelers looking for an interesting but off-the-beaten path US road trip destination.

Start your road trip at Hot Springs National Park, one of the only US national parks to be set in an urban (really, more like small-town) setting.

Nine historic bathhouses in the national park line Bathhouse Row, where visitors flocked to enjoy the local hot springs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

You can still soak in two of them today!

From there, head north all the way to Eureka Springs, which is known for its historic architecture, beautiful setting in the Ozark Mountains, and even more hot springs.

Along the way, consider detouring slightly to visit Hawksbill Crag (pictured below), one of the best viewpoints in Arkansas.

Whether you want to hike, soak, shop, or simply relax and enjoy the views, Northwest Arkansas is a delightful getaway.

This trip can be completed over a long weekend, but 5 days would be ideal.

From Carole of Travels With Carole

For one of the best road trips in Texas , begin in El Paso and head southeast. 

West Texas is filled with art, much of it BIG Texas art.

Before reaching the iconic West Texas art hub of Marfa , you’ll encounter some roadside art stops that include the “Giant” movie set installation featuring huge cutouts of stars Elizabeth Taylor, James Dean, and Rock Hudson.

This is followed by stops at the Prada Marfa store that never opens, and at the railroad-side World’s Smallest Target Store that is complete with a shopping cart. 

The tiny town of Marfa itself is home to the Chinati Foundation’s series of huge indoor and outdoor installations located on a former military base, as well as a plethora of art galleries–one of which displays Andy Warhol’s “The Last Supper.” 

In addition to art, Marfa has a viewing center where locals and visitors alike congregate at night hoping to see the area’s legendary and unexplained bouncing light orbs.

And if that’s not enough, you can also dine at the Stripes convenience store where Anthony Bourdain ate a fried burrito while filming what turned out to be his last episode of “Parts Unknown.” 

This is just the tip of the iceberg of a fascinating visit to this area. 

Allow 3 nights to visit this area and another night or two for an excursion to Big Bend National Park.

Northern Michigan

When considering the best road trips in America, the Great Lakes are often overlooked in favor of the Atlantic and Pacific coasts–but for a magnificent summer road trip through one of the USA’s hidden gems, head to northern Michigan.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on Lake Michigan and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on Lake Superior are located a mere five hours or so apart if you drive directly.

And, if you’ve never set eyes on the Great Lakes, this road trip will defy your expectations of what lakeshores look like!

Between them, be sure to take a step back in time at Mackinac Island, one of the best places to visit in Michigan.

Here’s the twist, though: no cars are allowed on the island, so you’ll need to leave yours on the mainland during your island escape!

Plan for about a week to make the most of this USA itinerary.

From Zach & Julie of Ruhls of the Road

Kauai is one of the most unique and beautiful destinations on earth.

However, when most people visit, they experience the inside of their resort and maybe a few beautiful places on day trips.

In truth, the best way to experience this incredible island is on a road trip to all of the best places on the island!

To start your Kauai road trip, go to the number one destination on the island: the Na Pali Coast.

The Na Pali Coast defies description, it is a place you have to see to believe.

The best way to see the area is on the Awa’awapuhi Trail, but make sure you hike the trail on a clear day for the best views!

From here, check out the Alakai Swamp, a boardwalk that also boasts incredible views.

As you leave the Na Pali Coast area, head down towards Waimea and see the Waimea Black Sand Beach.

Moving along the coast, stop at the Poipu area and see one of Kauai’s famous Hula shows.

Continue this coastal route and head into Wailua State Park. In this beautiful area, you’ll want to see Wailua Falls, Opaeka’a Falls, and hike the Kuilau Ridge.

The Kuilau Ridge Hike offers a 360-degree view of the Kauai landscape that will leave your jaw on the floor.

Finish your road trip by heading up to the Princeville area and checking out Queen’s Bath.

This is a beautiful tide pool that will make for the perfect ending to your Kauai road trip.

Make sure to check tides and go at low tide, as this area isn’t safe at high tide.

We recommend completing this Kauai road trip in 3 days.

Road to Hana, Maui

From Jess of I’m Jess Traveling

When you think of Hawaii you may not think of a road trip but prepare to have your mind altered.

When traveling on the island of Maui driving the Road to Hana is a must!

The scenic drive takes you from Kahului to the east side of the island to the town of Hana. 

The Road to Hana is 52 miles of one-lane bridges, hairpin turns, and curves.

This drive will take up an entire day so make sure you pack lots of snacks and fill up for gas beforehand.

The winding road takes you past jaw-dropping seascape views, roaring waterfalls, and exotic flora.

Some highlights of this drive include Ho’okipa, Twin Falls, the Painted Forest, Honomanu Bay, Wailua Falls, and the awe-inspiring Wai’anapanapa State Park.

Don’t forget to wear your bathing suit and pack a towel because pulling off the side of the road to take a dip in the ocean or swim under a waterfall is the name of the game.

Buckle up, enjoy the ride, and prepare for a trip of a lifetime.

You can drive the Road to Hana in a day, but if you’d like to savor the experience, consider camping or staying in Hana town for a few days to make sure you see all the best sights along this road trip in the USA.

Alaska Road Trip (Anchorage to Valdez)

From Wendy of Adventurous Retirement

Alaska is filled with excellent American road trip opportunities, especially in the summer.  

Start in Anchorage, when the museums are open.

Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center to learn about the indigenous people of the ‘last frontier’, and the Alaska Public Lands Information Center to learn about the history and culture of Alaska for free.

Take the Trolley tour for a fun overview of Anchorage, its history, and the earthquake of ‘64.

Ride the free shuttle to the Ulu factory, and check out the salmon runs at Ship Creek.

On day 2, head to Palmer and visit the Iditarod Museum before driving to Hatcher Pass.

Go to the high point for incredible views, hike the trails, and admire blue mountain lakes. 

Continue on this road to loop back to town.

From there, head to Matanuska Glacier, located one hour from Palmer. Spend day 4 hiking to and on the glacier. 

After that, drive toward Valdez Alaska on the Scenic Richardson Highway. It’s about 3 hours to Valdez.

Stop at Worthington Glacier Recreation Area to see the glacier or hike it. Stop at the various pullouts to view the waterfalls along Thompson Pass and the Highway.

If the salmon are spawning, visit Crooked Creek and see if you can spot a bear fishing for dinner.

While in and around Valdez, also consider taking an all-day wildlife glacier cruise, visiting the Valdez Museum and Annex, and visiting the Maxine & Jesse Whitney Museum.

This is a 5-day, 6-night road trip that keeps visitors busy every day. 

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

6 thoughts on “25 Best Road Trips in the USA (Itinerary Ideas + Tips!)”

Love all these ideas and inspiration for my next trip!

Thanks Jess! So hard to choose.

So many fantastic ideas – I can vouch for the awesomeness of WA, my home state! I am itching to get driving!

We are too! Hopefully we’ll all be able to soon. 🙂 We’d love to get back out west this year!

Everybody skips over Arkansas and Missouri when they suggest road trips, big mistake. Some of the best driving roads and scenery are located in the Ozarks and Quachita National Forests. Start in Springfield, Mo to the north. Stops could include Branson, Mo, Buffalo National River, Little Rock, Ar, Hot Springs, Ar, Talimena Scenic Drive from Mena, Ar then back north through the river valley of Fort Smith, Ar,, up Hwy 23 (Pig Trail) to Historic Victorian Eureka Springs, Ar. Then back to Springfield, Mo. You could easily spend 10-14 days on this road trip and see very diverse entertainment, scenery, hiking and waterfalls, mineral and hot springs, mountain and valley vistas. Best time to travel would be spring and/or fall. Scenery rivals anywhere in the country.

It is a beautiful part of the country! We actually visited Eureka Springs the weekend we got engaged, stayed at the Crescent. 🙂 We had someone signed up to contribute the Ozarks to this post but we haven’t heard back from them yet–maybe we’ll add it ourselves during a post update!

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11 Scenic American Road Trips to Take This Spring

From coastal drives to national parks, these U.S. road trip ideas are perfect for a spring vacation.

When the weather warms up and the late winter rains turn trees green and fields into wildflower wonderlands, it’s the perfect time to take a drive.

Whether your preferred landscape is mountains, deserts, forests, plains, or coastal views, there’s a spring road trip in the U.S. for you. Explore historic sites, regional food, wineries, or nature, all from the front seat.

We’ve put together a few suggestions, starting in exciting locales and ending in beautiful destinations, with hundreds of scenic miles in between. We cover national parks, where spring presents the ideal time between summer crowds and winter cold, as well as jaunts through marshes, mountains, and springtime blooms.  

There’s flexibility built into these suggested itineraries, with possible extensions if your schedule allows. It’s always a good idea to download your route from Google Maps to use offline or pack a paper map just in case you find yourself out of range.

Pack up the car, and away we go. These are the best American road trips to take this spring.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Nothing beats a U.S. national park in the springtime, and that's doubly true on the West Coast. A scenic drive through Joshua Tree National Park could span 50-plus miles if you drive straight through. Plan on spending at least four hours traversing the park, as you’ll want to take detours to enjoy panoramic views, climb massive rock formations, stroll through the cactus garden, marvel at an oasis, and find the perfect Joshua Tree landscape for your souvenir photos.

There are several ways to enter the park, but let’s say you’re starting in Palm Springs. Drive East on I-10 for about an hour to Cottonwood Springs Road (exit 168) and the park’s south entrance. Your first stop will be the visitor center for a map, and then on through the Colorado Desert environment, around sea level. You’ll see ocotillo, with their tall branches tipped by bright red blossoms. Stop at the Cholla Cactus Garden and walk along its paths, but don't get too close to the prickly plants.

Soon you’ll see the “tree” that gave the park its name. Legend has it that early Mormon settlers likened its branches to arms outstretched in prayer, so named it after the biblical figure, Joshua. Take a side trip to the Keys View overlook — with an elevation of around 5,000 feet, it provides a striking panorama of the Coachella Valley. As you wind through the park on its well-paved roads, you’ll notice campsites, picnic tables, wildlife, and an increase in elevation to the cooler Mojave Desert environment as you head toward the west entrance off Highway 62 in Joshua Tree Village. The highway meets I-10 — from here, head west toward Los Angeles or east toward the Coachella Valley.

Miami to Key West, Florida

With its abundance of wildlife and beaches, the Florida Keys is one of the best spring break destinations for families and can easily be explored by car. This drive covers about 150 miles, but the timing depends on your stops along the way. Take US-1 south, heading through historic Coconut Grove, past the University of Miami, and along either South Dixie Highway (US-1) or Ronald Reagan Turnpike (toll road). After passing the farms between Homestead and Florida City, continue on US-1 South, which turns into the Overseas Highway . Look for mile marker 126 to help you count down the distance to Key West.

Key Largo will be the northernmost town of the Keys and possibly your first stop. Spend some time at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park , the first undersea park in the country, which offers snorkeling, scuba diving, glass-bottom boat tours, and more.

Islamorada is part of the Middle Keys, a favorite of fishing fans, and a great place to shop for souvenirs. Then, it's onto Marathon Key , a city set on 13 islands, known for loggerhead turtles and its Dolphin Research Center . South of Marathon, US-1 crosses the Seven Mile Bridge which links Marathon with the Lower Keys.

Enjoy the view of the surrounding waters as you drive across the bridge, and look over at the original railroad bridge, severely damaged in 1935’s hurricane season, commemorated in the Hurricane Memorial in Islamorada. On the other side of the bridge, you'll see the palm-fringed beaches of Bahia Honda State Park . You may want to stop and explore the wildlife at the National Key Deer Refuge in Big Pine Key before reaching your destination of Key West. Enjoy the laid-back ambience of this unique town, stroll along Duval Street, or visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum .

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

The wildflowers in Shenandoah National Park are spectacular, making Virginia a worthy spring road trip destination. Skyline Drive takes you 105 miles through the park along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. About an hour and a half drive from Washington, D.C., this route through nature is the perfect contrast to the capital’s museums and monuments (though the D.C. cherry blossoms are worth a peek, too). Waterfalls, spring flora, hiking trails, wildlife, picnic areas, and 75 scenic overlooks will add hours of enjoyment to your park visit, so take your time on this popular road trip.

Starting at Front Royal on US-340, one of the park’s four entrances , the road climbs to Dickey Ridge (mile 4.6), where the visitor center provides exhibits, maps, and an orientation film. Mileposts on the west side of the road beginning with 0.0 at Front Royal help locate points of interest along the way. They continue to 105 at the southern end of the park at Rockfish Gap. Take your time and stop at the well-marked scenic overlooks, starting with the Shenandoah Valley Overlook at mile 2.8, where you can see the Shenandoah River as it winds through the valley. The Hogback Overlook at mile 20.8 is the longest viewpoint in the park and offers vistas of the Allegheny Mountains on a clear day.

Continue enjoying the panoramic views from the various overlooks, stop for a short hike, or learn more about the park at the Harry F. Byrd, Sr. Visitor Center. It's located at milepost 51 across from Big Meadows, an open area with campgrounds and spring wildflowers. At the Bearfence Mountain parking lot at mile 56.4, hikers can take a trail to the summit for a 360-degree view. Where Skyline Drive ends at Rockfish Gap, the Blue Ridge Parkway , a trip of nearly 500 scenic miles, begins.

Grand Teton National Park to Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana

Although parts of these two national parks are 100 miles apart, it’s possible to visit them both in one trip. You may want to stretch it over a few days, though, to really take your time sightseeing. Grand Teton National Park , at nearly 310,000 acres, is near the Wyoming town of Jackson, with Jackson Hole Airport located within the park at the base of the Teton Mountains. Just north, Yellowstone National Park covers over two million acres, with its famous geysers, mud pots, and hot springs.

Spring in Grand Teton sees the annual wildlife migration, with elk, bison, deer, and moose heading for their summer homes. The park’s mountains, valleys, forests, and rivers come alive after the winter thaw, and wildflowers usually begin to dot the landscape in May. Be sure to stop at one of the visitor centers in the park to learn about its history, wildlife, and environment. You may want to spend a night before setting out on the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway toward Yellowstone.

Heading north, you’ll be entering Yellowstone at the southernmost of its five entrances. You’ll pass Lewis Lake and waterfalls on your way to the Grant Visitor Center . Be sure to check the park’s website or convenient app regarding road conditions, especially in early spring. Head west to the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center to learn about the famous geyser and see it erupt. Watch for the park’s abundant wildlife, which includes bighorn sheep, bison, elk, moose, deer, black bears, coyotes, and mountain lions. If time allows, you can continue your national parks road trip by heading farther north to Glacier National Park in Montana.

Seattle to Newport, Oregon

You may find Seattle a bit rainy in the spring, but you'll likely see fewer crowds and lower prices. After dining on seafood, strolling through Pike Place Market, and seeing the sights over Puget Sound, head southwest towards the Oregon coast and the lovely town of Astoria. The trip begins on I-5 and is about 180 miles, passing enormous pine trees, green forests, and charming towns. It takes about three and a half hours until you cross the four-mile Astoria-Megler Bridge spanning the Columbia River and enter Astoria. There, you should spend the night and take some time exploring in the morning.

Astoria is located at the mouth of the Columbia River, close to the Pacific Ocean, and the Maritime Museum’s displays show the challenges of ships navigating the area. Once a center of fur trading and canneries, Astoria’s historic homes still stand, and the town almost seems lost in time. Don’t miss the view from Coxcomb Hill and the Astoria Column , dedicated in 1926 to honor Astoria’s early settlers.

Set out from Astoria along US-101, heading south along Oregon’s coast, and plan for many stops along the way at observation points, towns, state parks, beaches, or simply to enjoy breathtaking views of rugged coastline and crashing waves. Ecola State Park , with its sandy beach, tide pools, picnic areas, and hiking trails would be an appealing place to stop. Other beaches, wildlife preserves, and fishing villages will beckon you along the way, turning the 133-mile trip from Astoria into a full day. Relax in Newport, visit the Oregon Coast Aquarium , and dine on fresh seafood at sunset as you decide on your next stop. Willamette Valley wineries? Portland? More coastal towns? State Route 20 heads inland and US-101 continues south for your next adventure.

Rapid City to Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Rapid City is not only a great destination in itself, with art galleries, restaurants, and historic sites. It’s also the gateway to Mount Rushmore, the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site , and Badlands National Park , where this road trip will take you. Fossil beds, rugged mountains, wildlife, and striking rock formations create a unique environment.

The park is about 60 miles east of Rapid City, and South Dakota Route 44 is a scenic road through open prairie, farms, small towns, and ranches along Rapid Creek, a tributary of the Cheyenne River. You’ll drive through the Buffalo Gap National Grassland before reaching the entrance to Badlands National Park, two miles north of the town of Interior on Highway 377. From there, the Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway (SD-240) takes you through the park along 31 miles of stunning scenery that includes buttes, cliffs, spires, and overlooks where you’ll be amazed by the stretch of landscape before you.

Plan to spend several hours among the varied terrain and scenic beauty. Hike one of the many trails, and stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center to learn more about the park's history, wildlife, and geology. Don’t leave without a stop at Pinnacles Overlook , especially striking at sunset. To return to Rapid City, take SD-240 west to the town of Wall and then head west on I-90 for a quicker route.

New York City to Cape May, New Jersey

There’s always something to do in New York City, and after you’ve seen the shows, walked through the museums, and had your fill of the best bagels, get behind the wheel and head south along the Jersey Shore. You’ll probably leave the city via the Holland Tunnel to cross under the Hudson River to New Jersey. Stay on Route 78, and then take I-95 after you cross Newark Bay. After Perth Amboy, take the Garden State Parkway for a more scenic drive closer to the coast. Whew! You're out of the city.

The entire route is around 160 miles, and you’ll pass through some well-known beach towns worth a jaunt off the Parkway, so allow plenty of time. Asbury Park is where Bruce Springsteen got his start, and other beach towns, long popular as summer getaways, include Belmar, Spring Lake, Point Pleasant, and towns on Long Beach Island, a narrow barrier island that parallels the coast. Take Route 9 when it branches off around Toms River for a more scenic route closer to the ocean. Atlantic City, home to hotels, restaurants, casinos, beaches, and its historic boardwalk is next along your route. Stop at Steel Pier , a 1,000-foot amusement park offering rides, games, and food.

Nearing the southernmost end of New Jersey, you’ll reach Wildwood , a resort city with Adventure Amusement Pier , 1950s-style motels, diners, and retro entertainment. Just a bit further, but seemingly a world away, Cape May offers Victorian-style homes, quaint cottages, boutiques, galleries, and history dating back to the 1600s. Walk among its historic buildings and spend a night in one of its inns or bed and breakfasts before returning to New York or continuing south on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry , which can accommodate cars.

New Orleans to Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Once you’ve had your fill of beignets and oysters Rockefeller in New Orleans, consider a springtime getaway up the road to Louisiana’s capital. This southern road trip is only about 100 miles, but with so much history and beauty along the way, you should plan on making it a full-day trip. 

Take I-10 west out of town and I-310 south to LA-18, a scenic road that hugs the Mississippi. Stop at cemeteries, churches, and any picturesque places along the way that catch your eye. Then, merge onto LA-3213 N, cross the river, and make a slight left onto US-61 N to pass through Gonzales, also known as the “Jambalaya Capital of the World.” The town has a festival dedicated to the dish every May and several Cajun restaurants like The Jambalaya Shoppe .

Get on I-10 W in Prairieville from US-61 N and follow it for about 25 minutes to Baton Rouge. Enjoy some time in the city, and perhaps spend the night after your long day of driving. You might consider touring the LSU Rural Life Museum , which documents the cultures of 18th- and 19th-century rural Louisianans. For a faster return, take I-10 east, or continue west on I-10 to Lafayette, Lake Charles, and beyond.

San Antonio to Austin, Texas

If you happen to be in San Antonio in April, don’t miss Fiesta , a celebration dating back to 1891 that honors the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto with parades, flowers, food, and entertainment. Enjoy the River Walk and restaurants while you plan your Texas-style road trip to the state capital of Austin. Wildflowers and the spring landscape make this meandering drive one of the most beautiful routes to Austin (just don't expect it to be the quickest). Head west on I-10 out of the city, and then west on I-410 to TX-16 north (Bandera Road) for a scenic drive through Hill Country.

The town of Bandera , home to dude ranches and farms, was once a center for cattle drives, hence its nickname, the “Cowboy Capital of the World.” From there, head north on TX-173 and TX-16 to Fredericksburg , a Texas city with a German heritage dating back to its first settlers in the mid-1800s. Wineries and authentic German cuisine make this an attractive stopping point. If you have time, stop in Enchanted Rock State Natural Area to see its pink granite dome and striking rock formations.

Austin is about 80 miles east on US-290, but if there’s time for one more detour, you might want to visit Pedernales Falls State Park , just six miles north of US-290 about halfway to Austin. Known for entertainment, food, and nightlife, Austin is called the “Live Music Capital of the World.” You may want to spend a night to see what it’s all about. When it’s time to leave, you can take a direct route back to San Antonio on I-35 south, making the trip in under an hour and a half.

Phoenix to Flagstaff, Arizona

Spring is lovely in Phoenix, with April temperatures around the mid-80s. Flagstaff, at 7,000 feet of elevation, sees cooler average temperatures in the 60s and 70s during spring. The drive begins on I-17 north through the Sonoran Preserve and continues through the desert landscape for an hour before reaching our first suggested stop, Arcosanti . The experimental community is considered one of the best small towns in Arizona due to its futuristic and eco-conscious architecture, so set aside an hour or two to explore.

Then, continue up I-17 to the Montezuma Castle National Monument . These well-preserved prehistoric cliff dwellings were the homes of the Sinagua people for more than 400 years.

Continue northeast on I-17, then take AZ-179 north to Sedona along the Red Rock Scenic Byway , with about eight miles of stunning scenery that includes rugged sandstone rock formations tinted red by the presence of iron. Spend some time in the small town, explore the shops and restaurants, or hike among the rocks to feel the energy some refer to as vortexes.

Take AZ-89A north toward Flagstaff, but don’t miss Slide Rock State Park , especially during wildflower season. In just over 30 minutes, you’ll arrive in Flagstaff, home to the world’s largest ponderosa pine forest. Explore the historic downtown on a walking tour and rest there for the night before heading back to Phoenix or on to Grand Canyon National Park , Wupatki National Monument , Petrified Forest National Park , or one of the other national or state parks accessible from the gateway of Flagstaff.

Los Angeles to Big Bear Lake, California

Ron and Patty Thomas/Getty Images

No list of spring road trips would be complete without one of the most beloved — the Rim of the World Scenic Byway . The 110-mile trip takes drivers along the cliffs of the San Bernardino Mountains from one breathtaking view to the next.

Begin at Cajon Pass off Interstate 15, about an hour east of Los Angeles on Interstate 10. This drive takes you through some of the most scenic spots in California’s Inland Empire area, with plenty of photo opportunities at lookouts like Lake Silverwood Scenic Overlook  off State Highway 138.  

If there’s time to spend in Lake Arrowhead, off State Route 173, we highly recommend a tour on the  Lake Arrowhead Queen paddle-wheel boat  to get a good look at the lake and its scenic shores. Stay overnight at Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa for a relaxing evening of waterfront dining and alpine views from its private beach.

Join State Route 18 for your drive east toward Big Bear. Embrace your mountainous surroundings and stay at one of the chic cabins at Noble + Proper . Go for a hike on the  Castle Rock Trail  to catch unparalleled views of Big Bear Lake. Before you head back to L.A., grab a poke bowl and orange-guava smoothie at Tropicali , Big Bear’s popular restaurant on the Rim of the World with Hawaiian-style trappings. 

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The Ultimate Road Trip Checklist: Tips and Tricks for any Epic Road Trip Adventure

last Updated: September 12, 2023 road trip

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Heading out on road trip in the near future and looking for the ultimate road trip checklist? Keep reading for tons of these long road trip tips and tricks from highly experienced roadtrippers, and learn what to do before, during, and after your drive!

Road trips are always a good time. However, if you come unprepared, road trips can take a nasty turn for the worst. Should we book a hotel in advance? What about gas? Will there be food and restaurants nearby? How can we entertain ourselves for hours on end? Won’t the kids get bored? Am I allowed to do x in x country? AHHHH! It’s all so much!

That’s why this road trip checklist will definitely come in handy – I know I’ve learned a thing or so from my travel companions! Be sure to keep these long road trip tips handy!

I love me a good road trip. Over the past few years, we’ve road tripped the National Parks of Utah , through Fjords and glaciers in Norway , down the California coast , dreamed of driving from San Francisco allll the way to Seattle , hiked our way through Crater Lake National Park , moved from NYC to San Francisco on a massive cross-country road trip , and driven to a multitude of California hot spots ( Big Sur , Mendocino , Yosemite , Lassen National Park , and Napa Valley – I’m looking at you). I’ve even compiled the best long weekend trips from San Francisco that I’m eager to check off – many being road trips.

There’s nothing like throwing caution to the wind, grabbing those keys and driving off into the sunset. In reality, a road trip needs careful planning with a number of things taken into consideration. Enter this road trip checklist! Make sure to read each and every point before your next road trip adventure!

So get reading, understand the importance of each tip on this road trip checklist, and plan your next epic road trip adventure.

Psst: I commonly use this booking site when searching for low-cost car rental options, and like Skyscanner  (which I use to find low-cost flights) , I frequently find great deals on there!

I like to search  via this site  in order to compare rental companies to see who has the best price.

Road Trip Checklist: Long Road Trip Tips and Tricks

Safety tips.

Know the Laws Where You’ll be Driving

The most important advice I can give you before setting out on a road-trip is to brush up on the laws for the country you’ll be driving in. The world may seem to be getting smaller by the day, but the road laws around the world can be very different. Did you know that it’s illegal to drive barefoot in Spain?

Or that you have to have your headlights on 24hrs a day in Sweden? And that it’s illegal to stop on the Autobahn on Germany? I’m not saying you need to know them all the laws, but 10 minutes of browsing Google before you set out could save you some embarrassment, frustration or, worse in the long run.

Here are a few suggestions to get you going:

• What are the basic speed limits?
• What should you do if you have an accident?
• What type of license do you need? – Hopefully you checked this before hiring a car!
• Is there any equipment you have to carry?
• What is the drink-drive limit?
• Who has the right of way at junctions and on roundabouts?

Ben | The Sabbatical Guide

Share the Long Drives

Taking a road trip is a worthwhile travel experience. One of the challenges of a road trip is the long drive. It could be several hours, half a day, or even days before you reach your destinations. For drivers, fatigue kicks in after driving for hours. We handle this situation on our road trip by dividing and conquering the task. One person drives for at least 2 hours while the other person in the front passenger seat navigates.

Even if we use the GPS navigation device for directions, it helps to have another set of eyes to watch for upcoming signs, landmarks, and even other vehicles. After the 2 hours is up, we find the nearest rest stop off the highway or somewhere safe off the road for a quick break and then switch roles. It helps to share the driving and navigating responsibilities with others and to have a more enjoyable ride.

Jackie and Justin | Life of Doing

Do Pre-Car Checks

If you are not renting a car for your road trip, it’s a good idea to do a few quick checks to make sure your car will run smoothly.  It will only take a few minutes but could catch a problem that would derail your trip. First, inspect your tires to make sure that the tread is not too worn.  

If the tread doesn’t look good, you might want to get new tires before heading out on the road. Also, check your tire pressure and adjust so that it meets the level recommended in your owner’s manual.  This will help prevent a blowout or flat tire.

It’s also a good idea to check your oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid levels and add more if you are running low.  Then check to make sure all your lights are working, Finally, it’s a good idea to fill up with gas before your road trip so you don’t have to stop right away.

Anisa | Two Traveling Texans

Always Have a Paper Map and Know How to Read It

Having a paper map can be a lifesaver if you don’t have a GPS or cell signal. Even if you do have a GPS, you can’t always count on technology. Sometimes the power cords break, the device breaks, or for one reason or another, it just doesn’t work. Or, if you’re like me, you still get lost with a GPS because you turn down the wrong road 85% of the time when it says “turn here.”

Like with anything else, though, what good is it if you don’t know how to use it. I suppose it could still be of use in the form of kindling to start a fire if you get really lost.

Reading a paper map isn’t really that hard of a thing to do. One way to learn how to read a paper map is to find your home or a notable location on the map. It’s the same concept when you are out and about.

Chasing Departures

The Importance of a Good Night’s Sleep

Before heading out on an epic road trip, get a good night’s rest the night before. To avoid drowsy driving, it’s recommend that you sleep an absolute minimum of 4 hours, but 7-8 hours comes highly recommended. In reality, who can even function, let alone drive long distances, on only 4 hours of sleep. Also if you plan to drive at night consider delaying your trip by a few hours or wait until the morning if you are feeling sleepy. Remember, safety first!

Danielle | The Thought Card

Practice Driving on Difficult Roads Beforehand

Try and take the driver’s seat and practice driving on challenging and twisted roads across valleys and other difficult terrain before heading off on your road trip. You don’t exactly know what types of roads you’ll encounter, and it’s best to improve your driving skills and feel comfortable before setting off! I have seen lot of improvements in my driving skills now after implementing this strategy over time.This has helped me to drive on the most challenging and deadliest roads without any problems or issues.

Somnath | Travel Crusade

PLANNING TIPS

Leave Yourself More Driving Time Than You Think You’ll Need

The reason that road trips are so wonderful is that anything is possible. Leave yourself a large buffer of time, so that you can follow the road markers or signs you see on the side of the road to the magical places that the world has to offer that you didn’t even know existed. Most countries have a certain sign to mark historic sites. Sweden has three different kinds to show what kind of attractions you may find. Enjoy your road trip!

The Daily Adventures of Me

Plan Multiple Stops on Long Driving Days

What’s the point in going on a roadtrip if all you see is the highway itself? For us, the most essential thing while being on the road is to make a list of things we want to see on the way – and this is our top priority. We rather have a smaller distance of kilometres travelled, but at least see lots of things.

The best thing to do is to start you travel day by making a list of things that you pass along the route that you want to travel today. Doing so, you won’t miss anything and still have a super relaxed and fun day on the road.

Also, when it comes to stopping on the way, why not plan a picnic at a lake you wanted to see anyway? Having lunch has probably never been that nice before.

Travellers Archive

Forget the Map and Just Drive

Orrrr how about you just don’t plan at all sometimes? I’m not sure I could actually do this, but it’d sure make for a fun adventure!

Whenever you say road trip, people will instantly think about maps. Planning ahead, watching the map so that you know which roads to follow. But what if you forgot about any maps whatsoever? What if you just hop in your car, van, camper, bike, and just go wherever the road takes you.

Being curious on a road trip may prove to be the key ingredient for having memorable experiences. If you happen to spot a road that surprisingly doesn’t appear on your map, you might want to explore it. It could lead you to some incredible places, to some off-the-beaten trails and authentic destinations.

Don’t just stick to the main roads. You might just wake up in a forgotten village, or in a picturesque place, surrounded by wildlife. Don’t be afraid to get lost as the best road trips are not the ones when you simply follow the dotted lines!

Andra | Our World to Wander

Choose Your Travel Companions Wisely

If you are going to go on a road trip, choose your travel mates wisely. For days on end, you will be sharing close quarters and you don’t want to be stuck with someone that doesn’t travel the way you do or gets on your nerves.  Before committing to a long road trip, spend some time together when possible as a trial run.

Consider each other’s travel style and personality. Do they thrive on structure when you like to plan as you go?  Does one of you like to make record time while the other likes to make random stops along the way? Do you eat similar foods? If one people is a vegan who will only eat at Whole Foods while the other prefers fast food all the time, you are going to run into some issues.  

As you are planning, talk about budget and priorities to make sure you align on the types of things you will do and see on your trip. You don’t have to be a perfect match, but you need to know what you are getting into so you can prepare to have a great time.

Dan | HoneymoonAlways

Download Offline Maps

If I could give someone just one road trip tip it would be to download an offline map before you go. Google Maps allows one to easily do this with their app. We have been using it for years and find it to be the most reliable app out there for navigation. Simply go to the area you will be road tripping and download it to your phone.

Then you won’t need a WiFi connection to get turn by turn navigation. It’s all saved in your phone for 30 days. No GPS rental, no WiFi, and no hassle needed. Just make sure not to lose your phone!

Natasha & Cameron | The World Pursuit

Overcompensate for Time

My top road trip tip is to allow yourself extra time, even if you think you don’t need it! Overcompensating for the journey is crucial not only practically speaking, but also to lets you really get the most out of your trip.

You’re bound to stop along the way when driving through incredible landscapes. You wouldn’t want to miss out on the best views would you?! Additionally, stopping off will allow you to just enjoy your surroundings rather than being cooped up in a stuffy car all day. Enjoy the outdoors when you can!

Practically speaking, on unfamiliar roads you should allow yourself time to make mistakes, drive slowly, check directions, and find a parking spot. Finally, getting lost is both the best and worst thing about road trips. You’ll never know what you’ll find, but off-the-beaten-track also means extra travel time!

Keeping time-conscious will help you have more fun while sticking to the schedule, so it’s always worth remembering to add a little extra on the clock.

Suzy | Suzy Stories

Book Your Hotels and Accommodations in Advance in More Remote Areas

A road trip is a perfect time to just throw the plan out the window and just let open road flow.  This sounds really idealist. Except when you are ready to stop for the night, and suddenly find that the next hotel is an hour or three away.  This can be a horrific end to your day.

This issue is especially prominent in the mid-western regions of the United States.  These states are sparsely populated and towns can be few and far between. Towards the end of your day, start checking how long to the next town before leaving a town with hotel options.

Jennifer | National Park Obsessed

PACKING TIPS

Take Along a Spork and Water Bottle with Filter

One of the best items you can bring on a road trip is a spork and a water bottle with built in filter. With these two you can save lots of money and at the same time reduce your use of plastic. A spork is a fork, spoon and knife in one, which is perfect if you just want to buy some foods from the supermarket or some takeaway food – it’s not always that they offer cutlery!

And with a water bottle with built in filter you don’t need to buy water bottles. You just fill up the bottle with tap water, and it filtrates out 99,9% of the bacteria and gives the water a better taste. Even though the tap water is safe to drink in many countries, it’s not always that it tastes so good – and that’s where the filter water bottle comes in handy.

I never travel without my spork and filter water bottle, because they make life a little bit easier and saves me money!

Christine | Christine Abroad

Carry Water and Toilet Paper

Always carry water and lots of it. Not only for drinking but for a variety of reasons. You may need it for cleaning hands, shoes or worst case scenario filling up a radiator in an overheated car. Having baby wipes on hand can also cover cleaning, spillages, sticky fingers and freshening up.

My other top tip is to always have a spare toilet roll in the boot of the car. When nature calls, it calls! You may have to find a public toilet on the road and sometimes they aren’t maintained regularly. Don’t rely on there being a fresh supply of toilet paper at every public toilet. There is nothing worse than going to grab some paper and find out there is nothing there!

Travel Drink Dine

Pack More than Enough Activities for the Car

Long hours on the road can be difficult.  Having activities readily available for children, and some adults, will reduce the stress on the whole family.   Today, this is not as big of a problem as it once was, with cell phones and tablets, but a continuous stream of screen time is not the best way for our families to spend the drive.

Solve this problem with personalized entertainment packs.  Packs can contain a number of things, including magnetic games, small coloring books, puzzles, and reading material.  

We also recommend including a journal and camera, and some learning activities based upon the destinations to be visited.  This encourages discussion among the whole family. For learning activity ideas try online homeschooling resources, or a subscription service such as Little Passports.  

To minimize space impact, keep packs compact and convenient, by using a neatly organized lunch boxes.  Each child can keep it in their own space, and their snacks for each day can be kept inside too.

Roxanna | Gypsy With A Day Job

Cooler for Drinks and Snacks

I grew up road tripping around the United States, and one thing we never left home without was a small cooler for drinks and snacks. Buying drinks at gas stations and rest areas gets expensive, so before we left home, we’d hit the grocery store and grab bottles of our favorite drinks (bottles can be resealed, cans can’t) and bags of candy and chips to keep us going in between meals.

Pro tip: don’t buy anything that can melt like chocolate and gummy bears if you’re traveling in the summer.

We’d stash the cooler on the floor between our seats so we’d always have access to cold drinks. Hotels usually have ice machines, so you can refill your cooler with ice before setting out for the next leg of your trip. You’ll save tons of time and money on your road trip by bringing along a cooler full of drinks for everyone to share.

Kris | Nomad by Trade  

Take Along a Car Inverter

A car inverter is a fantastic road trip accessory and one we never knew we needed but now we can’t travel without! So what exactly is a car inverter? Simply said, an inverter allows you to charge your electrical gear in your car via the cigarette lighter charger in your car. It can be used to charge through both electrical plugs and USB. We use ours to charge all our travel gear such as our laptops, camera batteries, cell phones and drone batteries while on the road.

The ability to charge our gear in the car during a long journey between destinations is so useful and it ensures we never miss a photo due to a dead battery. Our inverter has saved us so many times, especially as we use our cell phones for navigation on road trips which runs down the battery very fast!

Elaine & David | Show Them The Globe

and with all that being said…

Don’t Take TOO Much Stuff

My best road trip tip is not to overload the car with stuff, though the temptation will be great! If you’re playing Tetris in the trunk at the beginning of your trip, you’ll face a disaster by the end. As with any other trip, take just a few days’ worth of clothing and plan to do laundry. Staying organized and having a place for everything is important so that you don’t have to re-pack the car at every stop.

You might have one small suitcase each for cold weather and warm weather clothing (if you’re changing seasons), a bag for things you’ll need at every overnight stop (like toiletries and chargers), a separate bag for swim gear, a cooler and snack bag in the back seat.

If you’re traveling with kids, try to minimize toys and other “kid junk” since it takes up plenty of space and seems to explode everywhere.

Melissa | The Family Voyage

STAYING SANE on the road / in the car

Music, Podcasts, and Audiobooks

Music is essential for a road trip, everyone knows that, but I find music can only hold my attention for so long. I like to take a variety of audio with me, particularly for long road trips where I’m driving all day.

Podcasts, especially serialized podcasts like Serial and S-Town, are great for keeping you entertained, especially during the least interesting sections of road. Some podcasts are so gripping that you actually want to keep driving just so you can find out what happens next.

As well as podcasts and music, I also make sure I have some audio books and standup comedy to hand. You never know when you’ll want something different, and it’s great to have options to hand.

Some people just prefer music, of course, and that’s fine, and the rule should be that whoever is driving gets to listen to what they want to listen to.

James | This Travel Guide

Create A Memorable Trip Playlist

No road trip is complete without its very own soundtrack in my humble opinion. Make yourself a

playlist of your favourite tunes of the moment, or songs in the theme of your trip. It’s so fun to groove along while you’re on the road but even better when you get home. Hearing those road trip tunes  immediately takes you back to your vacation.

I love hearing Bastille’s epic pop anthem Pompeii. It transports me back to our trip to the Amalfi Coast in Italy, driving along the winding cliff top roads. I can almost taste the salty air, seafood pasta and Aperol  spritz cocktail as soon as the opening bars come on the radio.

Deeper in my past, Paul Simon’s Graceland album was the soundtrack of the beach road trip vacations  of my childhood. And these are some of the sweetest travel memories of all.

So put some thought into your road trip soundtrack and pump up the volume as you take to the road.

Katy | Untold Morsels

Have Your Camera Ready

One tip for a memorable (with photographic proof) road trip is to have your camera ready to go at a moment’s notice.  You never know when you might come across a fox with a baby in a field or a moose on a lake or an elk in a forest. Or maybe you will find an incredible view with nowhere to pull off the infrequently traveled road.  Or maybe you’re in Africa or Asia and you drive by a local event along the road.

I always have my camera by my side ready to go. If you have time, make sure you roll down the window to avoid glare and reflections. Please only follow this tip if there are no cars around or you can safely pull off to the side of the road.

TheHotFlashPacker

CAR RENTAL TIPS

Choose Your Car Rental Company and Car Insurance Wisely

One of the most important things to keep in mind when planning a roadtrip is the rental car. It’s very important to choose it smartly, because you are going to spend many hours in the car and it has to be as comfortable as possible.

The first thing to have in mind is choosing the car rental company that suits your needs for the trip. There are many websites that compare the different car rental companies and offer you the best price.

Once you choose the car rental company, you should choose the size of the car, which should be adjusted to the number of passengers and the number of suitcases you want to carry inside. Also, if the road trip destination includes mountains or unpaved roads, it’s better to rent a 4×4.

The last thing you have to keep in mind when renting a car for your roadtrip is the car insurance. Normally car rental companies include basic insurance, but it’s recommended that you extend it to full risk insurance, as that way you will avoid problems and pay a lot of money if you have an accident or you have a flat tire.

Sara | Mindful Travel by Sara

Know the Limits of Price Comparison Websites

Price comparison websites will almost always find the best prices and options for car hire, but it is also important to follow and fully understand the conditions of the hire. As almost all car hire companies will require credit cards these days when booking online, and these must be under the name of the driver. But even if the car hire company offers a refund in failing conditions, the online booking agents rarely share the same policy. So refunds are unlikely. Also, it is best to hire a car that best suits the conditions and terrain of a road trip, for example, engines of cheaper budget cars will likely struggle with mountainous terrain. And before driving from the lot, be sure to report and photograph any damage to the hire, know the fuel type and the fuel policy (full-to-full is generally best), as well as how to open the tank.

Allan | Live Less Ordinary

WAYS TO SAVE MONEY

Rent and Return the Car in the Same City

A road trip is definitely my favourite way to discover a region. Flexible, you meet more local people and visit not-renown spots. I have a tip to give to say some money when organising a road trip. A tip that I learnt making this mistake myself. If you need to hire a car, organise starting point and arrival in the same place because rental agencies charge extra fees to bring back the car to the original location.

You can travel in a circle, as I did in Spain. I started from Madrid and visited Avila, Salamanca, Valladolid and Segovia, before going back to the Spanish capital. On the other side, when I visited Romania, I booked a flight to Timisoara and bought a return ticket from Bucharest.

While it was my favourite road trip, I had to pay the extra-fees for returning the car to Timisoara. Plan better, save money and use it for other activities!

Mario | Human Italian

KID-SPECIFIC TIPS

Bring the car seats for your kids along

It is really very easy to bring your car seats when you’re flying somewhere before your start your road trip. Low cost carriers will probably charge you to bring the car seat but it is worth it. You can just check it in.

The airline will put it in a plastic bag in most cases and you will find your car seat at the ‘unusual luggage spot’ which is mostly located next to the carousel where your normal check-in luggage arrives or at a special desk.

Car rental companies do offer car seats but nobody knows how to put them in the car AND for THEIR insurance, employees are not allowed to help you install the car seat. So to save yourself the frustration of trying to figure out a car seat you don’t know, just bring yours along. It is more practical, probably cheaper and most importantly you KNOW that your child will be safe.

Jessy | Planet Pilgrims

Take Regular Breaks

One of my best tips for road trips with little kids is taking regular breaks. We lived in Sydney for a while and would regularly do the Sydney to Melbourne drive which is 8 hours if you drive directly. We would do it in about 10 hours with a few 30 minute breaks here and there for the kids. We always found somewhere that had a little park so they could stretch their legs and expel some of their energy, we then found they would better settle into the next part of the drive.

We alway found just stopping for a toilet break was not enough and we would get back in the car and they would be fighting before we hit the highway again. A little play and run around made all the difference and if we were really lucky, at least one of the three would have a little sleep after a bit of a run about.

I also recommend regular healthy snacks with water only, we didn’t need any sugar highs in the back seat.

Sally | Our 3 Kids v The World  

A tip that has helped us in a pinch is when driving late at night, with the intention to stop and sleep at a hotel, call the hotel about 20 minutes in advance of your arrival to have the pull-out couch made up if you are needing one. That way you can just carry a sleeping child into the hotel and put them right to bed!

Momma To Go

Hopefully these long road trip tips have taught you a few things! When is your next road trip?!

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August 27, 2020 at 4:56 am

I love to camp and travel. Thanks for sharing such an amazing list. It is truly a great and useful piece of info.

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13 Road Trips To Take In The USA That Are Bucket-List Worthy

• Stunning coastal views and charming towns make the Pacific Coast Highway a bucket-list-worthy road trip in California. (100 characters)
• Route 66 is perfect for history buffs, connecting small towns and offering iconic landmarks along the way. (102 characters)
• The Great River Road, spanning 10 states, provides a scenic route along the Mississippi River for an ultimate bucket list road trip. (129 characters)

There's something inherently alluring about the open road. The wind in your hair, the sun on your face, and the freedom to explore new destinations and experiences. From adventures on the rugged coastline of the Pacific Northwest to the stunning vistas of the Southwest, the United States is home to some of the most iconic and breathtaking road trip routes in the world. This article lists some of the best bucket-list-worthy road trips to take in the USA for a memorable adventure. So, grab those keys, buckle up, and get ready for an experience of a lifetime on one of America's most scenic roads .

UPDATE: 2023/12/07 11:27 EST BY AARON SPRAY

Even More Great Road Trips To Take In The United States

The United States is famous for being one of the best places for road tripping. There are plenty of potential road trips to take all through the United States (and not only in the Lower 48). This list was expanded to include even more excellent road trip ideas to explore the nation.

Related: 10 Of The Most Scenic Byways In The U.S. (Perfect For A Road Trip)

Pacific Coast Highway, California

Staggering sheer drops and coastal views are what make this pacific coast adventure stand out.

The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most famous road trips in the US , stretching along the California coastline between Orange County and Mendocino County, covering a distance of approximately 655 miles. The highway is considered one of the most beautiful roads in the world, offering breathtaking ocean views with stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and charming coastal towns.

Some of the must-see spots along the Pacific Coast Highway include the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Bixby Bridge, the Hearst Castle, the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Pfeiffer Beach, and McWay Falls. The drive also takes you through the spectacular Big Sur region, overlooking the coastline and the Santa Lucia Mountains.

• Length: 655 miles
• When To Go: September through October
• Bucket List Stop: Pfeiffer Beach to see the falls

Route 66, Illinois to California

Perfect for history buffs, route 66 tells stories of america's midwestern glory days.

Stretching from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica in California, covering a distance of approximately 2,448 miles, Route 66 is one of the most iconic highways in the US and offers plenty of places to visit along the way. The highway is a popular route for travelers, as it connects many small towns and rural areas in the Midwest and the Southwest.

Some of the must-see attractions and landmarks along the highway include the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri; the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas; the Grand Canyon in Arizona; and the Santa Monica Pier in California.

• Length: 2,448 miles
• When To Go: May and September
• Bucket List Stop: Blue Whale of Catoosa to add a quirky, famed landmark to the trip

Great River Road, Mississippi River

This route covers 10 states in total, making it an ultimate bucket list road trip.

The Great River Road is a national scenic byway that follows the course of the Mississippi River from its headwaters in northern Minnesota to its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico. The road passes through 10 states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Tennessee, and Louisiana, covering a distance of approximately 3,000 miles.

Some of the highlights of the Great River Road include the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, Missouri; the Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi; and the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana. The road also passes through several national and state parks, such as Itasca State Park, Effigy Mounds National Monument, and Natchez Trace State Park.

• Length: 3,000 miles
• When To Go: During the fall months , September through November
• Bucket List Stop: The French Quarter in New Orleans for an authentic Crescent City experience

Related: 10 Bucket List Road Trips To Take In The US This Fall

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina

Known for being the most scenic mountain road in the south, the blue ridge scenery is unparalleled.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive, spanning 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia with Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. The road is among the best road trips US states have to offer, especially due to the fact it provides breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, rolling hills, valleys, and various opportunities for hiking, biking, picnicking, and wildlife watching.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most popular scenic drives, offering visitors a variety of attractions, including overlooks with panoramic views, hiking trails, picnic areas, and historic sites. Some of the most popular stops along the parkway include the Peaks of Otter, Linville Falls, Craggy Gardens, and the Linn Cove Viaduct.

• Length: 469 miles
• When To Go: Mid-May through Mid-September
• Bucket List Stop: Shenandoah National Park to take in the beauty of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains

Discover the best stops along the Blue Ridge Parkway when planning a road trip adventure along this road.

Overseas Highway, Florida Keys

Seven mile bridge connects travelers to bahia honda state park, making it perfect for nature lovers.

The Overseas Highway is a 113-mile scenic road that connects mainland Florida with the Florida Keys , a chain of islands stretching southward into the Gulf of Mexico. The highway, which is easily among the best road trips in the US in terms of ocean scenery, offers stunning views of the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean - thereby also providing opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and wildlife watching en route.

Some of the highlights of the Overseas Highway include the Seven Mile Bridge, Bahia Honda State Park, and the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, which features hundreds of colorful butterflies and exotic birds. Other popular stops along the highway include the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Dolphin Research Center, and the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, home to the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States.

• Length: 113 miles
• When To Go: Between January and April
• Bucket List Stop: Bahia Honda State Park to appreciate the untouched beauty of this Florida Keys landscape, and any spring season festivals

The Pacific Northwest

In stark contrast to other pacific roads, the northwest scenic byway offers dense woods, mountain views, and scenic waterways.

The Pacific Northwest Scenic Byway, also known as the Cascade Loop, is another one of the most beautiful road trips in the US. It's a 440-mile scenic route that winds through the Cascade Mountains in Washington State, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks, rushing rivers, and lush forests, allowing travelers to enjoy various outdoor recreation and cultural exploration along the way.

The Scenic Byway is dotted with charming mountain towns such as Leavenworth, and Winthrop, offering a Wild West vibe with wooden sidewalks and historic buildings. Other highlights of the Pacific Northwest Scenic Byway include North Cascades National Park, Lake Chelan, Methow Valley, and the Columbia River Gorge, a stunning river canyon, a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and waterfall viewing.

• Length: 440 miles
• When To Go: During the spring or summer months
• Bucket List Stop: North Casades National park, where travelers can cross off bucket list hikes, wildflower viewing, and scenic waterfalls off their list

Related: A Road Trip To Remember: The 10 Most Scenic Drives For Your Spring Vacation In The U.S.

The Grand Circle, Southwest USA

This route takes travelers through scenic rocky canyons between utah, arizona, new mexico, colorado, and nevada.

The Grand Circle is a scenic route that takes visitors through some of the most iconic national parks and monuments in the American Southwest. The route includes the states of Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, Colorado, and Nevada, stretching over 1,400 miles of stunning desert landscapes, ancient ruins, and geological wonders.

The Grand Circle route typically starts and ends in Las Vegas, Nevada, passing through iconic national parks like Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, and Canyonlands, known for their towering red rock formations, stunning canyons, and unique geological features. Other highlights of the Grand Circle route include Monument Valley, Mesa Verde National Park, and the Hoover Dam.

• Length: 1,400 miles
• When To Go: April to May, or September to early November
• Bucket List Stop: Monument Valley to explore hoodoos and other unique geological formations

The Great Lakes Circle Tour

Perfect for small town lovers and scenic lakeside views, this route promises all the beauty of the great lakes.

The Great Lakes Circle Tour is a scenic road trip taking visitors around the five Great Lakes. The route is approximately 6,500 miles long and passes through eight US states and the Canadian province of Ontario, allowing travelers to enjoy a variety of landscapes, from urban areas to small towns and rural countryside.

Along the way, visitors can explore national parks like Isle Royale, Pictured Rocks, and Niagara Falls, with various historic lighthouses, beaches, and scenic overlooks. One of the highlights of the tour is the Great Lakes Seaway Trail and the St. Lawrence River, offering stunning views of the Thousand Islands, known for its charming waterfront towns.

• Length: 6,500 miles
• When To Go: During the summer months , between June and August
• Bucket List Stop: Niagara Falls for those who have never been, or Pictured Rocks for those who have

The Black Hills and Badlands, South Dakota

Early america can be seen on this route, in the form of several landmarks and even a former midwest mining town.

The Black Hills and Badlands route is a scenic driving route passing through some of the most iconic natural landmarks in South Dakota. The route covers approximately 150 miles, taking visitors through a variety of landscapes, including the rugged badlands, towering granite peaks, and pristine forests, including several iconic attractions, such as Mount Rushmore National Memorial, the Crazy Horse Memorial, and Badlands National Park.

Some other notable stops along the route include Custer State Park, Deadwood gold-mining town, and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame, which celebrates the history and culture of motorcycle enthusiasts.

• Length: 150 miles
• Bucket List Stop: Badlands National park to witness some of the most famous landmarks in American history

Related: Hit The Road: 10 Unforgettable Adventures Await With These U.S. Road Trip Ideas

The Texas Hill Country

Small towns and country that span for miles exude the true charm of the texas hill country route, offering the best views in the state.

The Texas Hill Country route offers picturesque views of beautiful rolling hills and charming small towns of central Texas. The route is approximately 200 miles long, extending between Austin and San Antonio. The region is known for its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and unique cultural attractions. The road through Texas Hill Country takes visitors through several scenic small towns, such as Fredericksburg, Gruene, and Luckenbach. These are some of the best towns in the Texas Hill Country , each particularly known for its charming shops, restaurants, and live music venues.

One of the highlights of the route is the scenic drive along the winding roads of the Hill Country. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the landscape from the many lookout points and scenic overlooks along the way.

• Length: 200 miles
• When To Go: During the months of April, May, and October
• Bucket List Stop: Fredericksburg, which is a bucket list destination for small town lovers

The Dalton Highway, Alaska

With this route being the only one that crosses the arctic circle, the dalton highway is the definition of "bucket list".

The Dalton Highway is the northernmost highway in the United States and the only road trip in this list that crosses the Arctic Circle. The Dalton Highway is an all-weather road but also incredibly remote and one that requires extensive planning (be prepared for breaking down in the remote Alaskan wilderness).

The Dalton Highway runs from Fairbanks (the main city in Interior Alaska) and ends at Deadhorse in Prudhoe Bay (near the Arctic Ocean).

• Length: 414 miles
• When To Go: June to mid-July , when the highway is usually dry
• Bucket List Stop: Finger Mountain Wayside, which also has an interpretive half-mile hiking trail for those seeking more scenic overlooks

Hawaii Big Island Circuit Drive

While hawaii might seem out of the way, the big island circuit drive is worth the flight to see active volcanoes and stunning coastal landscape views.

The Big Island of Hawaii is by far the largest island in the Hawaiian Island Chain and is home to some of the world's most active volcanoes and some of the most stunning landscapes. One of the epic drives to consider is to drive around the Big Island. The two main roads on the Big Island are Highways 11 and 19 and taken together they create one big loop around the whole island.

• Length: 300 miles
• When To Go: During the months of April, May, August, September, and October
• Bucket List Stop: Pepe'ekeo Scenic Drive is at the start of Highway 19, just north of Hilo

Seattle To Fairbanks North American Drive

It wouldn't be a bucket list trip if it didn't have a unique route, and the drive from seattle to washington and fairbanks, alaska, also brings travelers through canada.

This suggested road trip from Seattle in Washington to Fairbanks in Alaska is the only American road trip to also pass through Canada. This is a mammoth 2,150-mile road trip passing through some of the remotest landscapes of North America (including British Columbia and the Yukon Territory). Alternatively, to keep it an all-American 'road trip', consider taking the Alaska Marine Highway - a ferry network that is part of the American highway system that bypasses Canada.

• Length: 2,150 miles
• When To Go: During summer months, preferably early June and July
• Bucket List Stop: While Fairbanks is the ultimate bucket list stop, saving some time to explore Canada can also add a unique aspect to this road trip

The Complete Guide to Road Trips

Make your next trip worth the drive with curated itineraries, expert gear, and more. 

Everything You Need to Plan a Stress-Free Road Trip

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Looking for an incredible adventure? Consider going on an 1-month West Coast road trip. You’ll love the stunning scenery, breathtaking views, magical landscapes, bustling wildlife, and — of course — incredible memories! And to help you out, I’ve put together this ultimate 1-month USA West Coast road trip itinerary that’ll blow your mind!

Psst. This post contains affiliate links. Read our disclosure .

There’s nothing better than the big open road, a car with a full tank of gas, good company, and the opportunity for endless adventures.

That’s exactly what Dan and I experienced when we embarked on our incredible 1-month USA road trip across the West Coast earlier this year. In just 30 days, we visited 14 different states, nearly hit 8,000 miles in our little van, and made incredible memories. It’s something I’ll never forget.

Within these 14 days, we experienced a good number of things — both good and bad…

✓ Camped out in numerous Wal-Mart parking lots, only to be woken up by late-night truckers and visitors.

✓ Ate one of the best vegan donuts  ever , as well as my first vegan sausage McMuffin.

✓ Viewed the Mexico/US border from our car while driving to New Mexico from Dallas.

✓ Hiked in the Superstition Mountains near Phoenix .

✓ Drove through the darkness to find a good FREE camping spot and star gazed in the middle of nowhere near Sedona, AZ .

✓ Explored the nooks and crannies of Zion National Park.

✓ Experienced strange things on the Las Vegas strip (completely sober BTW).

✓ Got locked out of our van in Yosemite National Park (yep — we were  those people!).

✓ Unlocked the van with a piece of string, a stick, and sheer willpower.

✓ Walked with the giants (Giant Sequoia’s that is) in Sequoia National Park.

✓ Camped on a desolate beach on the California Coast (only to be  almost caught by the DNR when we woke up!).

✓ Saw endless ocean views along the stunning Oregon Coast .

✓ Drove through blizzard-like weather in Montana .

✓ Made a few Buffalo friends while in Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota.

✓ Safely made it back home to good ol’ Minnesota .

No doubt, it was an incredible adventure! In the end, this unbelievable west coast trip just made me realize  how much the United States really has to offer in terms of amazing natural beauty and fantastic places to explore.

So, with that in mind, are you ready to explore the United States with this awesome 1-month West Coast drive that’ll completely blow your mind? I thought so.

Side Note: This itinerary can also be used as just a general outline and inspiration! Bend it to your will and use it for West Coast road trip ideas; tailor it to find the perfect adventure for you!

Psst, ever thought about renting an RV for your US road trip adventure? Click HERE to read my post on 5 reasons why you need to rent one. (Hint: these reasons are pretty awesome!)

Table of Contents

THE ULTIMATE 1-MONTH USA WEST COAST ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Since Dan and I nearly drove straight from Minnesota to Dallas, TX in the span of a day and a half, I definitely don’t expect you to start there.

So, because Arizona is damn near my favorite state ever, this mind-blowing west coast USA road trip starts in Phoenix and takes you through incredible national parks, breathtaking landscapes, and along spectacular coastal roads.

You’ll end in Seattle, Washington, where you can easily hop on another flight to get back to where you need to be!

QUICK SUMMARY: 

• Day 1-3 : Phoenix, Arizona
• Day 4-5 : Sedona, Arizona
• Day 6-7 : Grand Canyon National Park
• Day 8-10 : Las Vegas, Nevada
• Day 11-13 : Death Valley National Park
• Day 14-16 : Sedona National Park
• Day 17-20 : Yosemite National Park
• Day 21-22 : Sacramento, California
• Day 23-27 : California/Oregon Coast
• Day 28-29 : Portland, Oregon
• Day 30-31 : Seattle, Washington

Additionally, keep in mind that this is just a general itinerary! You can pick and choose how you’d like to go about it. Like one destination more than you thought? Stay a bit longer! Not feeling the vibe of another destination? Peace out!

**One great thing about using Booking.com (which the accommodations are linked to) is that you can usually cancel last minute without being charged — which means you can be more flexible with your road trip!

Psst, before you pack up and head out, don’t forget to take a peek at my handy dandy list of 55+ essentials to pack for a long-term road trip !

Day 1: Phoenix, Arizona

Depending on how you arrive in Phoenix, whether it be by car or plane, the first day on your epic road trip adventure will no doubt be filled with fatigue and jet lag. Although, if you have the energy, it’s a great place to get out and explore.

If not, take that nap! You deserve it. We all deserve the naps.

If you’re looking for a great restaurant to eat in the day, depending on what time you arrive, check out my list on 10 fantastic vegan restaurants in Phoenix !

Day 2-3: Phoenix, Arizona

Once you’ve rested and you’re reading to go, head out into the bustling city, as well as the city surroundings. Phoenix is a fantastic base for those who love to hike and those who love to shop. Whatever you’re choice, there’s options for everyone!

I recommend researching some awesome hikes in the nearby mountains; Superstition Mountains, Camelback Mountain, and the Phoenix Mountains. You can find some really great hiking trail suggestions here !

Additionally, if you’re not into hiking, the city of Phoenix offers a plethora of things to do.

Things to do in Phoenix:

• Head into Scottsdale Old Town and explore the Wild West-looking buildings.
• Check out the incredible Desert Botanical Garden and view adorable succulents, beautiful flowers, towering cacti, and gorgeous greenery!
• Ready to view beautiful Phoenix from above? Go on a Sunrise Phoenix Hot Air Balloon Ride !
• Depending on how hot it is, have a picnic in one of the many city parks.
• Visit the Heard Museum, which is devoted to Native American civilizations.
• Check out the Phoenix Mountains Preserve.
• Admire the Pueblo Grande Ruin.
• Spend time outside at the Tempe Beach Park.
• Explore the the Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix, Ro Ho En.
• Ultimately, get outside because the weather is usually spot-on and there are  so many things to do in parks, greenery, and mountains of Phoenix, AZ!

P.S. Check out these day tours and excursions from Phoenix  if you aren’t into planning activities yourself!

Where to stay in Phoenix:

As in many cities, there are various neighborhoods which are better than others! A few of my favorite suburbs of Phoenix are Scottsdale, Chandler, and Mesa.

• The Gainey Suites Hotel is a highly-rated hotel located in Scottsdale — and it’s surprisingly affordable!
• The Comfort Suites Old Town is a more affordable option in Scottsdale that’s in an awesome location — right in Old Town!
• In Chandler, the Cambria Hotel Phoenix Chandler – Fashion Center is an affordable, highly-rated option and is a guest favorite.
• Mesa, Arizona is a nice suburb of Phoenix closest to some of the best hiking in the Superstition Mountains. You can find a list of great hotels here !

Day 4-5: Sedona, Arizona

Out of all the destinations, I think Sedona, Arizona might be Dan and I’s favorite place.

The gorgeous red rock, non-existent light pollution, beautiful landscapes, and unbelievable star gazing won over our hearts. We spent one awesome night camping just outside Sedona’s city limits before heading up to the Grand Canyon and it was totally worth it!

Seriously, I can’t even tell you how many shooting stars we spotted. We spent  hours outside looking at the crystal clear skies and crazy cool stars. It was an awesome night!

Plus, if you get to Sedona early, you can go on a tour through the awesome Red Rock State Park . Sedona is also a pretty cool town to check out, with its cute cafes, gift shops, and nice locals.

Things to do in Sedona, Arizona:

• Hike one of the many different trails (like the Broken Arrow Trail — highly rated!).
• Check out Oak Creek Canyon.
• Visit Cathedral Rock.
• Explore the Red Rock Scenic Byway.
• Make your heart skip a beat by hiking the Devil’s Bridge Trail.
• Check out one (or a few) of the many gift and specialty shops — the crystal shops are amazing here!
• Visit the Palatki Ruins ( super   cool! ).
• Take a look at the Chapel of the Holy Cross.
• View Sedona from above and watch the sunset from the Airport Mesa.
• Marvel at the Palatki Ruins (Palatki Heritage Site), just outside of Sedona in the Coconino National Forest.

And if you want to stay in Sedona for a bit longer and make it your base, check out these awesome day tours and excursions which go from the city.

Psst, if you want a more detailed itinerary, click here to read a full guide on how to spend one day in Sedona !

Where to Stay in Sedona:

• The A Sunset Chateau is a great place for a relaxing and above-average stay.
• The Bell Rock Inn By Diamond Resorts is highly-rated mid-range accommodation.
• And the Sedona Village Lodge is for those on a budget but who still want to stay at a nicely-rated place!

Psst, want to camp out under the stars? Check out this post on how to find free RV camping around the US !

Also, if you want to spend more time in Arizona, don’t forget to check out my post on the ultimate 7-day Arizona road trip itinerary that explores Phoenix, the Grand Canyon, and Sedona !

Day 6-7: Grand Canyon National Park

No matter which route you take while traveling the west coast of America, you cannot — I repeat, you cannot! — miss out on the Grand Canyon!

Full of wonder and beauty, Grand Canyon National Park is a spectacular site in Northern Arizona which attracts hundreds and thousands of visitors each year. And when you first see it with your own eyes, it’s no wonder why.

Seriously, you may think you understand the enormity of it when you view the Grand Canyon in pictures, but they don’t do it justice! Its vast valley, mile deep ridges, and huge walls filled with the colors of red, orange, purple, and yellow is unbelievable.

Things to do in the Grand Canyon:

• 45 minutes helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon from Tuyasan, AZ (the town right next to the Grand Canyon National Park).
• Drive to one of the many viewpoints throughout the park.
• Go on a Grand Canyon East Rim jeep tour .
• Check out the Grand Canyon Village (surprisingly, a LOT of vegan options in the grocery store!).
• Grand Canyon Hermit Road Bicycle Tour .

Have you ever heard of Minnesota? Here are 15 reasons why summers are better in MN !

Where to stay near or within Grand Canyon National Park:

Dan and I camped in one of the many National Park’s campgrounds — which I highly recommend! — but if you aren’t planning to camp, many accommodations are available.

• For those on a budget: Grand Canyon Plaza Hotel
• Mid-range hotel, yet high ratings: The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon
• Great location, good ratings: Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn

Day 8-10: Las Vegas, Nevada

The drive from the Grand Canyon National Park South Rim entrance to Las Vegas, Nevada takes about 4-5 hours, depending on how many stops you make to take photos of the surroundings!

When you get to Las Vegas and check-in to your accommodations, get your butt out onto the strip and people watch!

Depending on how much time you have, you can spend 2-3 nights in Las Vegas. Dan and I didn’t drink while exploring Las Vegas but we had such a fun time just walking the strip, seeing what different places had to offer, and watching all the craziness!

Things to do in Las Vegas:

• Walk the strip and people watch.
• Admire the water fountain show at the Bellagio .
• View Las Vegas from above at the Stratosphere.
• Win (or lose) some money at the slot machines.
• Go on a night flight to view Las Vegas from above and have an incredible dinner for two.
• See one of the many, many entertaining shows.
• Go crazy at the Adventuredome Theme Park.
• Check out the Mob Museum.
• Go on a Las Vegas brewery tour !
• See some (fake) celebrities at Madame Tussauds !

Where to stay in Las Vegas:

As you can imagine, there are numerous places to stay in Las Vegas! You can spend your top dollar at one of the many high-class hotels right on the strip or go for a budget accommodation somewhere on the outskirts.

Here are my recommendations:

• If you want to go upscale and splurge, the Bellagio is the place to do it. With its beautiful interior, amazing fountain show, and excellent reviews, there’s no other hotel like it in LV.
• A more affordable, yet just as great option is The Carriage House .
• Into more of a condo style hotel? Try the Jet Luxury at The Vdara .
• At just $60 per night,  The LINQ Hotel and Casino  is a super affordable option with pretty good reviews.

Day 11-13: Death Valley National Park, California

Okay, okay, this might have been my most favorite part on Dan and I’s west coast road trip!

Death Valley National Park looks and feels like another freakin’ planet and it’s the coolest thing ever. As the biggest national park in the continental US, Death Valley has a lot to offer.

No doubt, the best to see it all (or at least see part of it), is to rent a car and simply drive around. You’ll be blown away by the red rock, vast views, endless landscapes, and Mars-looking mountains.

Although, if you want to do a tour around Death Valley, there are a few that go from Las Vegas!

Things to do in Death Valley National Park:

• Visit Zabriskie Point.
• Check out the Artists Palette.
• Lookout at the landscape at Dante’s View.
• Visit the wondrous Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.
• Explore the Mosaic Canyon.
• If you prefer to do tours, this Death Valley Day Trip tour goes from Las Vegas and is a full-day adventure filled with excitement.

Looking to be a more sustainable traveler? Check out these  20 helpful tips to get started .

Where to stay in Death Valley National Park:

Unfortunately, there’s not many place to stay  within Death Valley National Park, but there’s a few nice places on the outskirts.

If possible, I highly recommend camping in the National Park. You can find a few great free campsites from this website .

• A nice hotel in the middle of Death Valley and Sequoia National Park: Panamint Springs Hotel .
• The  Amargosa Opera House & Hotel is located in Death Valley Junction, near the California/Nevada border.
• The Longstreet Inn & Casino is the nicest out of the three, but it’s actually in Nevada, near the border. If you decide to leave Las Vegas early, this is a nice spot in between LV and Death Valley National Park.

Day 14-16: Sequoia National Park, California

Ready to see some giants? Giant trees, that is.

Sequoia National Park is one of the most popular national parks in California and after visiting, it’s easy to see why.

The Giant Sequoia and Redwoods, gorgeous views, breathtaking mountains, and incredible hikes are all worthy of the hype!

Things to do in Sequoia National Park:

• Visit the General Sherman Tree.
• Explore Grant Grove.
• Stroll the General Grant Tree Trail.
• Drive the Crescent Meadow Loop.
• Simply drive through this spectacular national park and take in the beautiful scenery!

Where to stay in Sequoia National Park:

Similar to other national parks on the list, there’s no real places to stay within Sequoia National Park unless you decide to camp.

The best places to find accommodations near Sequoia NP is in Three Rivers, Badger, or Pinehurst.

• Stony Creek Lodge is the only accommodation actually within Sequoia National Park. It has a fantastic location (obvi) and good reviews.
• The Rio Sierra Riverhouse has raving reviews and is a mid-range hotel.
• The Sierra Lodge Three Rivers is a budget accommodations with good reviews.
• In Badger, The Hummingbird House has incredible reviews and is a mid-range hotel with lots to offer.

Tip: If you’re visiting Sequoia National Park in the summer or in its busy season, make sure to book well in advance. Accommodations book up quickly and you don’t want to miss out on this place!

Day 17-20: Yosemite National Park, California

Even if you’re not from the United States, you might have heard of a magical not-so-little national park in America: Yosemite National Park .

One of my favorite stops on this West Coast America trip, Yosemite boasts breathtaking views, incredible mountains, lush forests, awesome hiking, magical wildlife, and overall an unbelievable atmosphere.

Things to do in Yosemite National Park:

• Go hiking! One of the best things to do here, no doubt. You’ll find hundreds of trails; some are hard, some are easy but you’ll easily find one you’ll love!
• Visit one of the many waterfalls. Some of the best include Bridalveil Falls, Vernal Fall, Yosemite Falls, and Chilnualna Falls.
• Just sit back and enjoy the views! Yosemite National Park is incredible so don’t miss out on just taking everything in.
• Go on a hiking adventure with a knowledgable guide! Cross the Half Dome, El Capitan, and Glacier Point off your bucket list with this Yosemite Hiking Excursion .

Vegan travel isn’t hard! Especially with these  10+ life-changing vegan travel tips .

Where to stay in Yosemite National Park:

Yosemite National Park is one of the best national parks where you can actually stay  within the national park itself.

While camping here is also great, the accommodations are in abundance — and all are relatively wonderful.

• The Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite has excellent reviews and is in the heart of the national park.
• Yosemite View Lodge is one of the nearest accommodations near Yosemite Village and has some raving reviews. It’s also relatively affordable!
• Located on the outskirts of Yosemite National Park, the Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort is the budget accommodation on this list. At under $100 a night, it’s definitely affordable. Although, it’s not located in Yosemite itself.

Day 21-22: Sacramento, California

Even though Sacramento is the state capital of California, it’s not very big! And totally doable in one day.

Additionally, this city is totally optional. Dan and I didn’t spend much time here, only going to the California Automobile Museum because Dan is totes into cool cars.

So, if you need a little stop between Yosemite National Park and driving to the coast (because yes, the coast is next up on the list), Sacramento is a great place to have it.

No doubt, this west coast road trip itinerary is packed full of things to do and awesome adventures, so if you need a little chill day, have it here.

Things to do in Sacramento, California:

• Like old and new cars? Check out the California Automobile Museum . (Dan LOVED this place!)
• Visit the California State Railroad Museum.
• Take a stroll through Old Sacramento.
• Marvel at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament.
• Admire the California State Capitol Museum.
• Walk through one of the many city parks (William Land Park is particularly nice).
• Wander about the Leland Stanford Mansion State Historic Park.

Where to stay in Sacramento, California:

• Love staying in hostels? You’ll like the HI Sacramento Hostel ! Affordable AND awesome reviews.
• The Inn at Parkside is in an excellent location and has wonderful reviews at a great price.
• One of the higher-range hotels on the list, the Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento Riverfront Promenade is beautiful, has fantastic reviews, and is in the perfect location.

Day 23-27: California/Oregon Coast

One of my favorite destinations/regions on this USA road trip itinerary.

The California and Oregon Coast is filled with endless ocean views, heart-stopping cliffs, beautiful wildlife, captivating scenery, and incredible adventures!

(Check out this photo diary of the Oregon Coast if you don’t believe me!)

Even though Dan and I had to rush through the California and Oregon Coast, as we were running out of time, this particular road trip itinerary for the American West Coast focuses on spending 4 days meandering through the region.

Because, as one of the most beautiful parts of this itinerary, you need to spend time relaxing and admiring, rather than rushing!

Sample Itinerary for the California and Oregon Coast:

• Pull up Google Maps and find a route from Sacramento to Fort Bragg. (This will take about 4 hours, depending on how much you stop.)
• Fort Bragg has a beautiful glass sand that’s wonderful to explore. If you’d like, you can stay in Fort Bragg. There’s a good amount of affordable, nice hotels .
• P.S. Make sure to venture off the 101 and go onto the Avenue of the Giants. A gorgeous drive through the massive redwoods! Stop off at one of the pull-offs and just walk around to feel the magic of this state park for yourself.
• (This will take about 2 hours to arrive at the Avenue of the Giants from Fort Bragg.)
•  Throughout this drive, there will be a number of pull-offs to stop at. The beaches are beautiful to walk amongst and the cliffside viewing areas are especially breathtaking.
• Lastly, you’ll want to make your way towards Lincoln City, OR, to stay on the 101. After Lincoln City, you’ll make your way inland towards Portland.

Psst, ever thought about visiting Glacier National Park? Check out this post 32 photos of Glacier National Park that’ll blow your mind!

Where to stay along the California and Oregon Coast:

• In Fort Bragg, the Ocean View Lodge has awesome reviews and is in a great location.
• Crescent City is another nice stop along the California Coast. There are a number of fantastic hotels to suit your preference . The Lighthouse Inn has good reviews and breakfast is included!
• Go a little further than Crescent Bay and you’ll come to Newport, OR. A nice little coastal town with lots of hotels.  The Landing at Newport Condominium Hotel is in an incredible location and is a guest favorite!

Day 28-29: Portland, Oregon

Another one of my favorite cities in the United States, Portland is full of fantastic things to do and is a must-see stop on this US west coast itinerary.

And even better?

It’s  chock full of incredible vegan eateries, restaurants, cafes, and shops. As a vegan food fanatic, I love it! In fact, this city kind of reminds of Berlin, Germany; it’s hip, trendy, totally vegan-friendly, and packed with cool things to do.

Things to do in Portland, Oregon:

• Wander through the most magical book store — Powell’s City of Books! One of my favorite things to do in Portland.
• Visit the Lan Su Chinese Garden.
• Walk through the Portland Saturday Market, the nation’s largest weekly open-air arts and crafts market.
• Take a stroll through the Pittock Mansion, a century-old symbol of Portland’s dramatic transformation from a small lumber town to a bustling city.
• Visit the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, one of the nation’s leading science museums.
• Grab a vegan donut at Voodoo Donuts (you won’t be disappointed!).
• Explore the International Rose Test Garden and take in all the gorgeous sights and smells of the place.
• Do a day trip to the Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls and MT Hood .
• Avid wine drinker? Check out this  Willamette Valley Wine-Tasting Tour !

I recommend checking out this 2-day Portland itinerary for a more detailed guide on how to spend your time in this vibrant, hip city!

Where to stay in Portland, Oregon:

• Want to stay right in the heart of downtown Portland? The Hyatt House Portland/Downtown is perfect!
• At $85 a night, the HI – Portland Northwest Hostel is an affordable option with great reviews!
• The Oxford Suites Portland – Jantzen Beach is a mid-range option in a great location with awesome reviews.

Are you a Harry Potter fan like me? Take a look at this post on the  best Harry Potter sites and attractions in Edinburgh, Scotland (the birthplace of HP!).

Day 30-31: Seattle, Washington

One of the more iconic destinations on this west coast itinerary, Seattle, Washington, is a cool city just begging to be explored.

With its gum wall, Pike Place Market, Space Needle, and Museum of Pop Culture, it’s an incredible place to have an adventure.

Alas, I cannot tell lies… Dan and I didn’t actually visit Seattle . We bi-passed it completely to drive from Portland, OR, to Spokane, WA, to visit my sister. Although, it’s not logical to have you end in Spokane, am I right?

Thus, Seattle makes more sense, as it has a bigger airport if you’re planning to fly out.

Additionally, it has much, much more to do than Spokane. Overall, it just works out better as an ending point! Anyhow, without further rambling…

Things to do in Seattle, Washington:

• Take a ride up the Space Needle to see Seattle from above.
• Wander through the Pike Place Market.
• Stroll along the Seattle Waterfront and relax on some of the nice beaches (yes, they do exist in Seattle!).
• Explore Downtown Seattle and check out the restaurants, shops, eateries, theaters, and more.
• Take a photo in front of the infamous Seattle Gum Wall (just down the road from the Pike Place Market!).
• Venture down under and go on an Underground Tour !
• Relax in one of Seattle’s many parks.
• Get out on the water and admire Seattle from the sea on a boat tour .
• Head out to the field and go to a baseball game.
• Take a walk along one of the many trails surrounding the city.

Where to stay in Seattle:

• Looking to splurge on your last city? Check out the Paramount Hotel . Located in the heart of Downtown Seattle, it has raving reviews and excellent customer service.
• A more budget-friendly option is the Motif Seattle . At $197, it’s definitely one of the cheaper options throughout the city and has awesome reviews, as well as a great location.
• One of the most affordable accommodations throughout Seattle is the HI – Seattle at the American Hotel Hostel ; great reviews, $99 per night, and in Downtown Seattle.

What’s the Budget for a One-Month USA West Coast Road Trip?

I’ve gotten a lot of questions about how to properly budget for this 1 month USA road trip. While everyone’s budget is going to be slightly different, as people generally like to spend their time differently, here’s a rough idea of what you can expect to spend.

• Accommodation : $50-200 per night
• Food & Drinks : $20-70 per day
• Fuel : $250-300 total (roughly $.11 per mile)
• Attractions : $0-100 per day
• Insurance : $100-200 total (I highly recommend World Nomads travel insurance )
• Car Maintenance : $50-150 total
• Miscellaneous : $100-200

Since everyone likes to stay in different accommodations, eats different food, likes to go to different attractions, and do other miscellaneous activities, this budget is going to vary drastically.

To save on accommodation and eating at restaurants everyday, I couldn’t recommend renting an RV more. Use RVShare to explore your options!

Dan and I spent almost every night in our van, so we saved a ton on accommodation. Additionally, while we didn’t have a kitchen, we did use a Coleman camping stove to cook the majority of our meals, saving us loads of money.

Can I just say one word… wowza .

What a monster of a blog post, amirite?!

Although, no doubt, this American West Coast road trip itinerary is packed with helpful information, an easy to follow route, and — of course — awesome experiences!

If you want to discover what the best of the USA west coast has to offer, this itinerary delivers.

Have you visited the United States West Coast? Or have traveled around it? Additionally, let me know what you think of this itinerary in the comments! 

Not sure what to check out next? Readers love these posts:

• 10 best places to visit in Wales, UK (#7 is a must!)
• Your guide to hiking Devil’s Bridge from Mescal Trailhead — Sedona, Arizona
• Road trip packing list – 55+ essentials you can’t forget (2020 edition)
• Best places for vegan food in Minneapolis & St. Paul
• Destinations along Minnesota’s North Shore

Like this post on the ultimate USA west coast road trip itinerary? Pin it!

Yay for transparency! This post contains affiliate links; if you make a purchase through one of the links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read the full disclosure policy here .

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Article comments.

Kevin McCarthy

Hi Sophie, What a joyful month that seems to have been for you and Dan. Great commentary on the places I’ve seen, from a different spin. I loved it. Since I’m a retired HS English teacher I’m versed in good writing and that was good. One sticking point I had was your use of “Dan and I’s favorite place” several times., where “Dan and my favorite place” would be more precise. Just a niggling thing, I know, but retirement doesn’t shut down the linguist in me. Thanks for such a great look at our fabulous West. Kevin McCarthy

Bucket list material, that Grand Canyon: if you re just after an impression, you can visit the bad boy in one day. But since it was quite the drive to get there (6 hours), we decided to stay a bit longer. The first day we mainly checked out the east side, the second day the west side. If you re there, try to watch a sunset as well: the sun gives the canyon a truly magical color.

Would love it if you could provide a budget for this trip!

Hey Paige, that’s a great idea! Thank you for the suggestion. I will be sure to update the post with an estimated budget and an exact budget of what my partner and I spent on this road trip! Stay tuned. 🙂

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22 Best Solo Road Trip Ideas In The USA (Epic!)

This guide to solo road trips in the United States contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Looking for fun solo road trip ideas in the USA?

Then you’re in the right place!

Whether it’s your first time going on a road trip by yourself or the hundredth, the solo road trip destinations and routes mentioned below are sure to please.

Discover stunning coastal drives, adventurous routes showcasing national parks, and road trips that introduce you to local history, cultural, and even a few oddities!

Best of all, each road trip listed below has been carefully curated to appeal to solo travelers specifically so that you can confidently hit the road on your own and have an amazing time.

Ready to get inspired and find your perfect solo road trip? Keep reading!

Table of Contents

Road Trip By Yourself With Confidence (Free Course!)

But first, before we dive into our ultimate solo road trip guide, I want to invite you to grab access to the free Savvy Solo Traveler ecourse, which can help you successfully plan your  first solo travel experience !

The six-day ecourse is designed to help you feel confident about booking your solo trip and exploring the world alone. Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect solo trip
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• How to take amazing solo selfies

Grab your seat in the course here . Then keep reading to learn everything you need to know about creating the perfect solo road trip itinerary and how to travel solo successfully .

Best Solo Road Trip Ideas In The USA

Now it’s time to dive into our list of epic solo road trip destinations in the United States!

One of the biggest solo travel advantages is having ultimate freedom over your itinerary, and this guide shares some great routes to schedule into yours.

This list is in no way exhaustive, so if you have a route to add please leave it in the comments below. For instance, while many of the trips in this list are shorter, you might also consider a cross country road trip alone .

My goal: To empower this solo female travel community to confidently hit the road solo!

1. NYC To The 1000 Islands

Start: New York City

End: 1000 Islands, New York State

Distance: 352 miles+

About the solo road trip:

Looking for solo road trip ideas on the East Coast ? This is one of my favorites!

First of all, bustling New York York sits in stark contrast to the laid-back 1000 Islands, a region that straddles the New York (US)-Canadian border and features 1,864 islands. This means you get two completely different experiences at the beginning and end of your trip.

In NYC, wander interesting neighborhoods like the Upper East Side and the West Village , book a private NYC photo tour or explore local culture through a fun group tour , enjoy outdoor adventure through hiking in Manhattan , dine at truly unique New York restaurants , and take in some of the best views in NYC for free , to name a few experiences.

Honestly, I recommend spending as much time as possible in New York City before your road trip begins, as it’s one of the best places to travel solo in the US !

In the 1000 Islands, take a SUP yoga class with River Yoga, sip your way through the Thousand Islands Seaway Wine Trail, go whitewater rafting on the Black River with Whitewater Challengers, take a sunset sail with Sail Ontario, hike in the 2,636-acre Wellesley Island State Park, and visit the famous Boldt Castle before relaxing with a waterfront meal at Bella’s Restaurant in Clayton.

But, that’s not all.

Along this solo road trip, you’ll have numerous options for interesting stopovers, like Corning (home to the famous Corning Museum of Glass !), Oswego County (with beautiful parks like the Happy Valley Wildlife Management Area and Salmon River Falls Unique Area), Lewis County (where you can explore rugged countrsyide), and Lawrence County (home to some of the best hiking in Upstate New York ).

This road trip is great for solo travelers because it truly offers a choose-your-own adventure experience. You can go off the grid and travel in solitude or choose popular activities that put you with other people.

Moreover, there are loads of things to do in New York State that you can explore along the route!

-Jessie Festa, Jessie on a Journey + Epicure & Culture

2. Las Vegas To Grand Canyon Solo Road Trip

Start: Las Vegas, Nevada

End: Grand Canyon, Arizona

Distance: 270 miles+

One of the coolest and safest road trips in the USA for solo travelers is the route from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon, which is stunning and is also done on interstate highways. 

It will take about four hours one way to get there, covering about 270 miles. Drive down the Las Vegas Strip and head towards the Hoover Dam (via I-515 S and I-11 S), which you’ll get to in about 40 minutes.

Spend a couple of hours admiring this man-made engineering marvel, which straddles the Nevada-Arizona border. It is recommended that you book tickets in advance for touring the Hoover Dam and visiting special exhibits, which you can do here.

From the Hoover Dam, it is another 95 miles to reach the Grand Canyon West Rim and 240 miles to the Grand Canyon National Park. Once you are at the park’s West Rim, you can enjoy the glass-bottomed Skywalk Bridge ( tickets here ) and soak in the views of the natural gem.

If you are heading towards the South Rim, consider spending a night or two in the Grand Canyon village to sleep right in the park. This makes it easier to wake up early and take in a gorgeous Grand Canyon sunrise, as well!

– Mayuri from ToSomePlaceNew

3. Maui’s Road To Hana In Hawaii

Start: Paia, Hawaii

End: Haleakala National Park Entrance, Kipahulu District, Hawaii

Distance:  60 miles

About the solo road trip :

Maui’s Road to Hana is one of the most famous US road trips — and with over 600 hairpin turns, dozens of beautiful vistas, and plenty of exciting stops along the way, it’s easy to see why!

Plus, beautiful and safe Hawaii is a paradise for those traveling solo , making this road trip the perfect addition to a solo Hawaii itinerary.

Start your drive in Paia, a surfing town on the north side of the island. Follow the road east for the next 60 miles for some of Maui’s most beautiful scenery!

Technically, this road goes past the tiny town of Hana and ends at the eastern entrance of Haleakala National Park. This is one road trip that is definitely more about the journey than the destination.

For the best experience, rent a car and drive this road yourself. That way, you can stop along the route as much as you want!

To get helpful and entertaining commentary along the way, download an audio guide app before you go, such as the Shaka Guide. 

While there are dozens of stops along the way, there are a few must-visits. The first one is the Keanae Peninsula, which you’ll see just past Mile Marker 16. Here you can try the famous Aunty Sandy’s banana bread — made with sweet Maui bananas — and enjoy views of the ocean along the rugged, lava-crusted coastline.

Next, make sure to visit Waianapanapa State Park at Mile Marker 32! You’ll need an advance reservation to enter, but it’s worth it to visit Maui’s most beautiful black sand beach. 

Just past Mile Marker 45, you’ll reach the most photographed waterfall on Maui, Wailua Falls! This 80-foot waterfall is just a short hike from the road.

Finally, make sure to stop at Haleakala National Park at Mile Marker 42 (the mile markers start going down once you pass the town of Hana). Here you can hike the famous Pipiwai Trail — one of the world’s most beautiful hiking trails — which takes you through a bamboo forest and to the gorgeous 400-foot Waimoku Falls.

-Jennifer from Glassesandboardingpasses

4. Blue Ridge Parkway In North Carolina

Start: Cherokee, North Carolina

End:  Waynesboro, Virginia

Distance: 469 miles

Arguably ranking among the world’s greatest road trips and the most iconic driving routes in the United States, the Blue Ridge Parkway stretches 469 miles from Cherokee, North Carolina to Waynesboro, Virginia. 

This stunningly scenic route was originally envisioned by US President Franklin Delano Roosevelt in 1935 as a means to connect Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia — where it turns into the equally picturesque Skyline Drive. 

The visionary plan was part of his historic New Deal initiative, which FDR designed to improve American infrastructure and create jobs as a means to accelerate the nation’s economic recovery after the Great Depression. 

The vast majority of the construction of the 469-mile parkway was completed by 1966, but it took another 21 years to finish the eight-mile stretch in North Carolina that includes the technically difficult engineering feat now known as the Linn Cove Viaduct.

Now, with more than 15 million people driving some portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway every year, it is the most visited unit of the US National Park Service. 

The fact that the Blue Ridge Parkway is so popular is a big part of what makes it so safe for solo travelers. You may be alone in your car, but there are virtually always other cars, RVs, and cyclists riding the winding, mountainous roads through the heart of the Blue Ridge region.

You’ll likely encounter friendly strangers at many of the 200+ breathtaking overlooks along the way, and the 200-mile North Carolina section takes you close to charming mountain towns such as Asheville, Cherokee, Banner Elk, Blowing Rock, and Boone that offer plenty of overnight accommodation options. There are also great hiking trails near Boone !

The parkway is an extraordinary conservation initiative, with virtually no commerce — including hotels, restaurants, billboards or, importantly, gas stations — alongside the road.

What it does offer is jaw-dropping natural beauty, including Jefferson, George Washington, Nantahala, and Pisgah National Forests; numerous impressive state parks; and countless hiking trails, waterfalls, rivers, lakes, and streams. 

The North Carolina section is where you’ll find many of the parkway’s most noteworthy landmarks, including Mount Mitchell (the tallest peak east of the Mississippi River), Grandfather Mountain, the Linville Gorge Wilderness, Looking Glass Rock, and Julian Price Memorial Park.

Each of these iconic places offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the splendor of America’s wilderness at its most pristine.  

-Bret Love & Mary Gabbett from Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide

5. Solo Road Trip Through New York’s Finger Lakes Region

Start : Rochester, New York

End : Syracuse, New York

Distance: 270 – 350 miles

New York’s incredibly popular Finger Lakes region is a peaceful getaway filled with world-famous wine, locally produced ciders and craft beers, stunning waterfalls, dramatic gorges, and some of the best hikes in Upstate New York . It’s the perfect combination for a solo road trip!

Road tripping routes through the Finger Lakes are completely open to your own interpretation. 

A more relaxing break might involve circumnavigating Seneca and Cayuga Lakes on boozy wine tasting tours and slowly exploring quaint lakeside villages.

However, the action-packed Finger Lakes itinerary I’ll be sharing begins in Rochester and ends in Syracuse, with a total driving distance of anywhere between 270 miles by main roads and 350 miles by taking the scenic route.

Up first is a true Finger Lakes hidden gem: Letchworth State Park, which is lesser-known and further out from the epicenter of state parks around Ithaca, New York. Three gorgeous waterfalls and a dramatic 400-foot deep horseshoe-shaped gorge are unmissable Letchworth highlights.

From hidden gem to magazine front cover, the Finger Lakes’ star attraction is Watkins Glen State Park , which is one place you absolutely can’t miss on a visit to the region. A beautifully crafted stone walkway transports visitors past 19 picturesque waterfalls cascading through Glen Canyon, climaxing at spectacular Rainbow Falls.

Take a break from the waterfalls by sampling award-winning wines, swimming in Seneca Lake, and visiting 19th-century Belhurst Castle in the small but charming city of Geneva.

Back to gorges and waterfalls, a scenic trip awaits in the famous college town of Ithaca.

First is Taughannock Falls State Park, which features the tallest single drop waterfall east of the Rockies. Next up, blow the cobwebs off with steep gorge hikes in both Robert H Treman and Buttermilk Falls State Parks.

The last stop after leaving Ithaca is arguably the prettiest and most tourist-friendly village in the region, Skaneateles. This quintessential and vibrant Finger Lakes hamlet sits on a clear blue lake with high-end dining and boutique stores a plenty.

New York’s Finger Lakes cater to solo travelers who enjoy photography, hiking, countryside drives, and escapism; however, starting out solo doesn’t necessarily mean staying solo. Join a highly rated wine tour to meet like-minded people and make new connections.

– Mark and Kristen from Where Are Those Morgans ?

6. Driving The Great River Road In Louisiana

Start : New Orleans, Louisiana

End : New Orleans, Louisiana

Distance: 280 miles

The Great River Road in Louisiana isn’t a shy kind of place. Its iconic images include grand avenues with dripping live oaks, opulent plantation homes, and mint juleps on the side. 

Yet, of course, there’s more to it than that. And through initiatives like the Whitney Plantation Museum, which focuses on sharing the stories of those enslaved rather than their owners, there’s never been a better time to explore this part of the US. 

Most road trips start and finish in New Orleans — and with very good reason. It’s a fantastic city to explore. Forget any notions of all-night parties (unless you want to), as in New Orleans you’ll find tasteful art galleries, cool gardens, acres of history, and an abundance of chicory coffee and sugary beignets. 

From there, consider a detour to Lafayette to see Vermilionville, a living museum that tells the tale of the Acadian people, refugees from French Canada and forerunners of Cajun culture and cuisine. Stop along the way for bowls of gumbo and foot-stomping Zydeco music. Just watch out for the gators along the edge of the road. 

Then follow the Old Man River and drive beside the Mississippi along the Great River Road. It’s fun to stop off at Louisiana’s state capital Baton Rouge to check out the museums and the bar that serves oysters in nearly 100 different ways. 

But the real draw is the story of those swamps and those grand plantation homes. 

It may not sound like it but a swamp tour is a serene way to spend half a day. Drift amid marshmallow and tumbling leaves on the bayous as alligators watch with glee. 

Then make sure to visit at least these two plantation homes: Oak Alley and the Whitney. 

Oak Alley is the famous one; the one with a tunnel of trees along the driveway and a feature in a Beyoncé video. 

Then there is the Whitney, a place with haunting statues of enslaved children. A graveyard for babies. Trading chains and shackles amid the Gone with the Wind era romance.

It makes for a sobering visit. And adds important context to an otherwise flamboyant and fun road trip from New Orleans.

In terms of why this road trip is great for solo travelers, you can explore the plantations at your own pace and yet there’s always company to be found thanks to the legendary southern hospitality.

-Abigail from Inside the Travel Lab

7. Death Valley To Yosemite National Park In California

Start: Death Valley, California

End: Yosemite National Park, California

Distance: 285 miles

An amazing solo road trip in the US is the drive through the Eastern Sierras from Death Valley to Yosemite. The views out your window will take your breath away, and this 285-mile trip through California features many spectacular outdoor spaces that you can explore to your heart’s content and truly enjoy solo.

Begin your solo road trip in the unique and unforgiving landscape of Death Valley National Park near the border of Nevada. This desert is the hottest place on earth, and you can visit the lowest point in North America at Badwater Basin.

From there, head west to the town of Lone Pine to check out the highest point in the continental US, Mount Whitney. While you can hike to the 14,505 foot tall Mount Whitney summit in one day — if you’re lucky enough to win the permit lottery — it is a very intense hike. You can take an easier hike to appreciate this epic peak in the distance instead.

Then continue your road trip north to Bishop. This cool mountain town is a playground for hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing.

Continue your outdoor adventures by exploring all the things to do in Mammoth Lakes, where you can also rejuvenate with a relaxing soak in the local hot springs.

This awesome road trip culminates in the iconic Yosemite National Park. Enjoy the beauty of Tuolumne Meadows on your drive into the park as you head to Yosemite Valley. Here you’ll find yourself in the shadow of the grand granite walls of Half Dome and El Capitan. Be sure to spend at least a night or two in the park to cap off your Eastern Sierras solo road trip!

-Allison from She Dreams of Alpine

8. San Diego To Los Angeles California Road Trip

Start: San Diego, California

End: Los Angeles, California

Distance: 120 miles

If you’re looking for solo road trip ideas that are simple yet scenic, this one is for you.

A road trip from San Diego to Los Angeles might not win you any points for originality, but it works perfectly if you are a solo traveler looking for a convenient and safe adventure with stunning scenery and plenty of options for lodging, entertainment, and dining. 

Unlike some other California road trips, the drive from San Diego to Los Angeles doesn’t require you to spend hours on the road and go to remote areas with scarce cell phone coverage. 

Moreover, if you decide to take a 120-mile drive from San Diego to Los Angeles, you will have countless options — from the upscale La Jolla just north of San Diego where you can visit galleries and admire wildlife to beautiful Orange County famous for its surfing spots like Trestles and San Onofre and the historic mission in San Juan Capistrano. 

Another spot that is worth your attention is Laguna Beach, home to the stunning Crystal Cove State Park showcasing unspoiled beauty and rich marine wildlife. If you’re looking for a solo beach vacation , it’s perfect for that, too.

And then there is Dana Point, a small seaside town that has been dubbed “the whale capital of the west” that offers daily boat tours if you want to see these iconic animals. 

Of course, solo travel in Los Angeles also offers tons of things to do and see, from beautiful beaches to amazing shopping to world-class restaurants to epic LA hikes with waterfalls .

If you plan to do this route for the first time, make sure to spare enough time because you will have an infinite amount of places to choose from. 

-Daria from The Discovery Nut

9. Route 66 From Chicago To Los Angeles

Start: Chicago, Illinois

End: Los Angelos, California

Distance: About 2,500 miles

Route 66 is an iconic highway in the United States , originally created to connect Chicago to Los Angeles. It has since been re-routed and extended.

Moreover, it’s also known as the Will Rogers Highway or simply “The Mother Road” and has been recognized in popular culture on TV shows like The Simpsons and Doctor Who and on video games such as Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas.

Start in Chicago at the “Begin” sign and see a bit of the city before heading off on your 2,500-mile adventure road-tripping from Chicago to Los Angeles while traversing eight states:

• New Mexico,
• and California.

Make your way over two weeks to Los Angeles, where you’ll be rewarded with Pacific Ocean views. Most choose to end their adventure at the Santa Monica Boardwalk.

There are many attractions along Route 66, but some of the most famous ones are the St. Louis Gateway Arch in Missouri, the Blue Whale of Catoosa outside of Tulsa in Oklahoma, and the Grand Canyon, which is one of the most popular day trips from Route 66. 

Plus, there are so many fun things to do when traveling solo in Texas .

This road trip is perfect for solo travelers because it’s fast-paced and provides many opportunities to meet other travelers on the road. While you may spend your nights in interesting kitschy motels, you’ll spend your days in diners and at roadside attractions where quirky characters abound.

-Stephanie from Oklahoma Wonders

10. Florida’s Gulf Coast

Start: Destin, Florida

End: Marco Island, Florida

Distance: 600 miles

As one of the largest states in the US, the Sunshine State of Florida has a huge diversity of culture, climates, and landscapes that’s often lost on many travelers who may build their vacation around just one place. From north to south, Florida has so many faces, making it perfect for exploring on a road trip.

The Gulf Coast of Florida in particular offers a variety of local foods, ecosystems, and some of the best beaches in the country.

Your road trip starts on Florida’s Panhandle — so named as the handle by which the entire peninsula can be carried. 

Known as the Emerald Coast, one visit to the town of Destin will show you why. The emerald green waters beg you to stay for at least a few days, and you should. Hike the dune trails at Henderson Beach State Park then spend time lounging on these gorgeous beaches.

From Destin, head east to the state capital of Tallahassee. The landscape becomes wooded and the small city is easy to navigate. Don’t miss the Tallahassee Museum and a Shakespeare performance at the Amphitheatre.

The next day set off for Cedar Key to explore one of Florida’s hidden gems. Foodies will love a visit here as the small town is famous for their clams.

This part of the Gulf coast below the Big Bend is where Florida’s Nature Coast begins. Drive south to Crystal River and Homosassa and spend a few days exploring Three Sisters Springs by kayak where you can swim with manatees in the crystal clear warm springs.

Just south of the Nature Coast is Tampa and St. Petersburg where you should visit Ybor City, the historically Cuban quarter of Tampa. The food and local culture here are worth the day trip to the city.

After exploring the many things to do in Tampa and Sarasota, the drive south reveals a landscape that’s more remote and coastal as you head to southwest Florida.

Fort Myers is a vibrant and vintage city made famous by its notable summer residents Henry Ford and Thomas Edison, who both had homes here. Plan a visit to tour their houses and spend a day swimming and sunbathing on Sanibel Island or Fort Myers Beach.

From here, wind your way to the Paradise Coast of Naples and Marco Island, the gateway to the Florida Everglades and the Ten Thousand Islands, one of the most beautiful and popular destinations in Florida.

-Lori from Naples Florida Travel Guide

11. Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway In South Dakota

Start: Black Hills, South Dakota

End: Spearfish Canyon, South Dakota

Distance: 20 miles

If you’re looking for solo road trip ideas for the Midwest , this route takes you through 1,000-foot limestone cliffs, waterfalls, and stunning scenery without the crowds!

Head to the Black Hills of South Dakota for a spectacular drive through the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway. This peaceful 20-mile winding drive runs through a canyon between Spearfish and Cheyenne Crossing and is filled with breathtaking scenery, waterfalls, lakes, and limestone cliffs — natural beauty you have to see for yourself!

There are three waterfalls in the canyon and all bring their own unique appeal. The first being Bridal Veil Falls, which you can see from the road, making it a convenient stop. The other two are Roughlock Falls and Spearfish Falls, both near the Spearfish Canyon Lodge. Viewing all three is a must.

If you’re up for a little adventure travel , you can rent an ATV across from the Spearfish Canyon Lodge and explore the area, ride around the trails, and jump in a cool creek.

Other than near Roughlock Falls, you likely won’t run into anyone except the free-range cows, which makes for a fun way to explore the canyon. There are also numerous hiking trails throughout the route.

As you’re probably gathering, if you want to spend the night, the Spearfish Canyon Lodge is a great place to do that as it sits along the Scenic Byway and is near two of the three falls. There’s an on-site restaurant and Little Spearfish Creek runs behind the lodge and provides a serene setting to relax. 

While in the area, you’re near so many historic sites, such as Mt. Rushmore, Deadwood, and the Crazy Horse Memorial. There’s so much to see and do! The area is beautiful any time of year, but fall is especially pretty when the autumn colors come alive. 

This route is perfect for solo travelers, too, as it’s easy to get to and traverse, and there’s a sense of solitude and calm. That being said, you’re still close to amenities and civilization. Bonus: The people of South Dakota are very friendly!

You can go at your own pace, stop when you want to stop, and take in the peace and beauty that surrounds you.

-Erica from Ericakeel

12. Solo Road Trip From NYC To Boston

Start:  New York City

End: Boston, Massachusetts

Distance : 200 miles

The drive from New York City to Boston is ideal for those searching for a quick and reasonable road trip. It’s a great choice for solo travelers since it’s not too long and there is lots to see along the way. Along the route, you’ll get to enjoy two of the East Coast’s major cities as well as the stunning coastline. 

Go on this road trip during the summer, when the weather is pleasant and great for sightseeing. This area of the US is especially beautiful during the fall when the forests are tinted orange and make a great photo subject.

With just over 200 miles this road trip takes around 3.5 hours one way — although you could drive for slightly longer and take the scenic road through Providence, a highlight of New England. Definitely make a stop in New Haven, Connecticut for some fantastic museums, beautiful architecture, and delicious thin-crust coal-fired New Haven-style pizza.

This is the perfect weekend road trip, although you could also spend an extra week if you want to explore the many fun and unique things to do in NYC and Boston .

You’ll start in New York City and head north. If you’re up for it, make a little detour to Long Island to explore the local wine country , hiking trails , and beaches that are perfect for a picnic along the way.

– Victoria from Guide your travel

13. Length Of Vermont To The Canadian border

Start : Brattleboro, Vermont

End : Canadian border near Alburg, Vermont

A road trip the length of Vermont to the Canadian border is a delight for solo travelers. Vermont locals are typically kind, friendly, and willing to help out when needed. The charm of tiny Vermont villages and their residents enhances any road trip through the Green Mountain state.

Start your journey in the south at Brattleboro. The first stop is at the West Dummerston covered bridge, one of over 100 covered bridges in Vermont.

Head up scenic Route 100 through the heart of the Green Mountain. Stop at picturesque towns with nary a stoplight. Don’t miss the Vermont Country Store in Weston for unique gifts.

The iconic town of Stowe is an all-season destination on your solo road trip. It’s a world-class ski destination in the winter and a popular foliage spot in the fall. In summer, outdoor enthusiasts have loads of choices for adventure travel , including hikes to waterfalls, biking on the Stowe Rec Path, or scaling Mount Mansfield, the highest peak in Vermont.  

The vibrant city of Burlington is your next destination. Rent a bike to pedal along the Burlington Bike Path, one of my favorite beautiful bike rides . The bike trail leads to spectacular beaches with views of the Adirondacks across Lake Champlain.

For a relaxing afternoon, take a cruise on the Spirit of Ethan Allen with narration about the history and nature of the Lake Champlain Valley. 

The final stage of your solo road trip is a drive through the bucolic Champlain Islands. Search for the mysterious miniature stone castles along the roadsides and sample some local agrotourism products. Apple picking and wine tasting opportunities also abound.

The road trip is just over 200 miles from Brattleboro to the Canadian border. Each mile is packed with Vermont charm and friendliness. 

-Karen from Outdoor Adventure Sampler

14. Southern Utah Solo Road Trip

Start : Las Vegas, Nevada

End: Las Vegas, Nevada

Distance: 1,049 miles

One of the best solo road trips in the US is in Southern Utah exploring the state’s five national parks and everything in between. It’s best done in 10-14 days as a loop from Las Vegas. 

In terms of distance, the route is a little over 1,000 miles in total, but I would leave wiggle room for side trips and any last-minute additions.

While the five national parks — Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands — are the main highlight, there are so many other amazing things to do and see. A few recommendations include:

• trekking the Burr Trail (of the best Utah hiking trails ),
• driving Scenic Byway 12,
• exploring Goblin Valley State Park and Snow Canyon State Park,
• seeing the giant sandstone buttes of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park,
• hiking to the Horseshoe Bend overlook,
• walking inside of Antelope Canyon,
• and swimming at Lake Powell, to name a few.

This is a particularly great road trip for solo travelers because it’s popular and easy to be around people, though it’s just as easy to get away from those crowds if you wish. 

No matter what you do, you’ll see some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. 

This is a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts, no matter the skill level. Just be sure you’re prepared according to that level and always let someone know where you’re going and when to expect you back.

-Megan from Red Around the World

15. Savannah To Charleston Solo Road Trip

Start : Savannah, Georgia

End:  Charleston, South Carolina

Distance:  105.9 miles

If you’re a fan of beautiful architecture, Southern food, and coastal cities, Savannah and Charleston make an ideal option for a road trip. Southerners are known for their overt friendliness, and both cities are accustomed to hosting solo travelers.

The two cities are close to one another, so you won’t waste much time driving — which means more time for exploring.

The distance between Savannah and Charleston is approximately two hours, and the most common route is HWY 17 to I-95 and then back to HWY 17.   

The best place to stay in Savannah is the Historic District, and The Marshall House is a good centrally located hotel for solo travelers.

River Street, City Market, and the Plant Riverside District are known for being entertainment hubs. They’re packed with the highest concentration of restaurants and bars and are where you’ll find the most live entertainment — and also the largest crowds.

If you prefer enjoying lovely old architecture in a more romantic setting, try strolling along Jones Street. It’s known for being one of the prettiest streets in the city and walking it is one of the best things to do in Savannah .

A few must-see attractions include the stunning Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Bonaventure Cemetery, Wormsloe, and Forsyth Park. The Olde Pink House is the most iconic restaurant in Savannah, while ghost and trolley tours are the most popular activities.

On the drive from Savannah to Charleston, be sure to detour through Yemassee to see the Old Sheldon Church Ruins, and then stop to visit The Angel Oak, a giant 60-foot-tall oak tree estimated to be over 400 years old located on the outskirts of Charleston.

Once you’re in Charleston, the Spectator Hotel and Planters Inn are two fantastic hotel options. It’s easy to walk to numerous attractions and restaurants from either spot.

Charleston is also a great city for shopping! Visit Historic Charleston City Market to watch local Gullah artists make sweetgrass baskets by hand, and then head over to the shops lining King Street to do more high-end shopping.

If you’re a fan of architecture, be sure to stroll down Charleston’s cobblestone streets, which are lined with historic churches and beautiful mansions. The always-popular Rainbow Row makes an ideal place to snap a few selfies.

Stroll down The Battery to catch a sunset along the water before heading to Husk for dinner and then on to Babas on Cannon for an evening cocktail.  

-Erin from Savannah First-Timer’s Guide

16. Overseas Highway In Florida

Start: Miami, Florida

End: Key West, Florida

Distance: 150 miles

Driving the Overseas Highway is the perfect solo road trip for travelers that love the Florida weather and dream of visiting the beautiful Florida Keys.

This route starts in Miami and takes you all the way to Key West, the southernmost city of the United States. The 150-mile scenic drive is iconic and offers unbelievable views of the Gulf of Mexico and all of the islands in the Florida Keys.

Even though the drive can be made in only three and a half hours, the best way to do it is by taking at least two or four days to fully take in the route’s beauty and take advantage of the excellent stops along the 42 bridges that make the road. So take your time!

Some of the must-do stops on the way are the stunning Islamorada (a village of six islands), the Dolphin Research Center in Marathon, and the Seven Mile Bridge — the largest segmental bridge in the world.

Other nice places to stop along the way include the Coral Castle Museum in Homestead, Everglades National Park , Bahia Honda State Park, and Key Largo, one of the best scuba diving destinations in the country.

This is an excellent road trip for solo travelers because it is easy to navigate, has amazing weather all-year-round, and allows you to visit some of the prettiest places in Florida.

-Camila from Travel Cami

17. Geronimo Trail From Arizona To New Mexico

Start: Douglas, Arizona

End: Cloverdale Cemetery Animas, New Mexico

Distance: 54 miles

If you are a solo road tripper and crave a drive that is totally off the grid, I have one for you. After hundreds of US road trips, my favorite remains the Geronimo Trail in southeastern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico. 

It is one of the most unique US road trips and it is much more remote and isolated than the famous highway in Nevada that claims to be the Loneliest Road. How lonely? On a 90-minute drive on Geronimo Trail, I saw only three cars.

Geronimo Trail starts just east of Douglas, Arizona, where 15th Street turns into Geronimo Trail at the small Douglas Airport. A few miles later, the pavement ends and Geronimo Trail is a dirt road from this point. 

Note: A 4WD vehicle is highly recommended! Also, please pack solo road trip essentials like a spare tire and extra food and water just in case you run into any issues. I had no problem with a small SUV. 

About 35 miles later you will reach the Arizona/New Mexico border. About six miles into New Mexico, Geronimo Trail officially ends and turns into County Road 002—which is even more lonely. I saw only one car in 90 minutes!

The massive appeal along Geronimo Trail is rustic vibes, wide open spaces, astounding scenery, and time to be at one with your thoughts. The beginning of Geronimo Trail runs along the US/Mexico border and you will likely see Border Patrol agents and vehicles. 

As Geronimo Trail turns northeast, San Bernardino National Wildlife Refuge signs appear. The refuge is an oasis in the surrounding desert and features protected fish and seldom-seen migrating birds. If you enjoy hiking, the Black Draw Trail is a great spot for bird watchers. 

Between the refuge and the AZ/NM border, there are a handful of large ranches, intense side roads (like Sycamore Canyon), one Mormon Trail historic marker, and a few small pioneer cemeteries. Basically, Geronimo Trail’s allure is miles and miles of dirt road, astounding scenery, and just you and your vehicle. Crank your tunes—or turn the radio off to let your deepest thoughts surface.

To find this approximate route on Google Maps, search Douglas, AZ to Cloverdale Cemetery Animas, NM in “Get Directions”. Note that Street View (the blue man) is not available for almost all of this road trip, which lends to its mystique.

-Charles from McCool Travel

18. Kansas City To Rocky Mountain National Park In Colorado

Start: Kansas City, Kansas

End: Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Distance: 650 miles

A road trip from Kansas City to Rocky Mountain National Park is an essential trek through Americana. 

Around 650 miles separate these two disparate destinations. The craggy peaks of the Rocky Mountains are a stark contrast from the flatlands of Kansas. But both offer stunning beauty in their own rights. 

Starting in Kansas City, you do what pioneers, prospectors, and cowboys did 150 years ago; head west!

Crossing the prairie, you can imagine what those early settlers saw. So much of it remains as it was back then. 

Especially beautiful are the rolling grasslands of the Flint Hills in Kansas. The springtime is especially amazing as the fresh shoots of grass carpet the hills in a lush green blanket.

Stop into the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve to stroll through the hills of native grasses and herds of bison.

But don’t dally too long. You still have a bit of a drive to get to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Until you reach Denver, you will be covering mile after mile of this grassland. Although beautiful, you’ll likely be ready for a change of scenery.

And what a welcome sight Denver is! The Rocky Mountains set the backdrop behind the skyline to welcome you to the next part of your journey.

There are so many fun things to do in Denver for solo travelers , too. Additionally, nearby, Boulder is a smaller college town with plenty to explore. And Estes Park is right outside of your final destination. Any of these are also great stopping points for a bite to eat or to pick up supplies. 

Stop into Mountain Sun Pub in Boulder for some great food in a lively atmosphere. There are only booths along two walls with the center lined with tables. As a solo traveler, this is a great way to meet the locals and fellow visitors alike.

But don’t forget what you came for: The amazing hikes and camping in Rocky Mountain National Park. Honestly, this park has some of the best hikes in the world ! Stop into the visitors center and pick up your map. You have endless trails to choose from.

The park offers shuttle service to many of the trailheads, which makes it great for hiking as you don’t need loop trails to get you back to your car. 

Alpine lakes, streams, and trails open up plenty of ways to explore or relax. 

The long, open road and the serene mountain trails both offer solitude for the lone traveler. But there are lots of places to mingle with locals and visitors alike for the more social solo travelers. 

-Steve from Maps Over Coffee

19. Michigan’s Lower Peninsula

Start:  Benton Harbor, Michigan

End:  Mackinac Island, Michigan

Distance: 340 miles

The west side of Michigan features natural beauty, food and drinks, and fun cultural attractions worth writing home about.

This 350-mile route is great for solo travelers because the driving is easy, there are plenty of places to take breaks, and you can see the best scenery without having to venture too far off the beaten path.

Starting from the southern border, work your way up Lake Michigan along I-94 and then I-196. You’ll find tons of beach towns as well as plenty of lighthouses as you make your way to Holland. This small town is known for its Dutch heritage and features a windmill originally from the Netherlands.

Continue northeast to Grand Rapids, also known as Beer City USA. Sample drinks at one or more of its breweries and visit the larger-than-life sculptures at Meijer Gardens or the Gerald Ford Presidential Library.

Heading west on I-96 brings you to Muskegon where you’ll find even more beaches. This small town also has an amusement and water park called Michigan’s Adventure, which features a handful of roller coasters. Closer to the lake, you can tour the USS Silversides, a WWII-era submarine docked along the shore.

Continuing north on US-31 and then M-22, you’ll arrive at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which is highlighted by sand dunes towering 400 feet above the turquoise waters of Lake Michigan. You can take a scenic drive to the top of one for stunning views with minimal effort or try climbing up one yourself.

Continue on M-22 around the Leelanau Peninsula through the heart of Michigan’s wine country. Stop into tasting rooms yourself or continue to the resort town of Traverse City and join a tour so you don’t have to drive.

While you’re in Traverse City, try its famous cherries and dine in the local farm-to-table restaurants. Once you’ve had your fill, continue north on US-31 to I-75.

Mackinaw City serves as the gateway to both the Mackinac Bridge and Mackinac Island. The bridge connects the Upper and Lower Peninsulas and there are great spots to view it from Fort Michilimackinac and the beaches to the east. Mackinac Island is most easily reached via ferry. 

The small island in Lake Huron has no motorized vehicles, so visitors and locals walk, bike, or ride horse-drawn carriages. It’s famous for its Victorian architecture and delicious fudge and is the perfect cap for your Michigan road trip.

-Kris from My Michigan Travel

20. Montana Road Trip On I-90 & Highway 93

Start: Billings, Montana

End: Glacier National Park, Montana

Distance: 637 miles

If you’re looking to safely road trip alone as a female , I highly recommend visiting Montana.

After growing up there and taking several of my own, there are many reasons to consider a drive along I-90, including the fact that some of the most beautiful nature is located along this route. 

I recommend starting your trip in Billings, which is easy to fly into and is Montana’s largest city, before heading to Bozeman and Yellowstone National Park. You’ll need to make a slight detour from I-90 to get to the park on Highway 191.

Along the way up north on Highway 93, make sure to add stops in Butte, Missoula, and Whitefish. All offer unique reasons to visit and a different feel—Montana is more varied than you might think! 

If you have the time, also make sure to stop off at the Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park, which features cave formations that are millions of years old.

The remaining drive is super easy with very clearly marked signs that take you from one town to another. Most of it is highway driving with little traffic and plenty of beautiful views. 

Finally, if one national park wasn’t enough, you get to end your 637-mile trip at another national park: Glacier. I do recommend planning your accommodations in advance if you can in order to make sure you have a place to stay when you get there!

-Alex from Alex on the Map

21. California Solo Trip Along The Mendocino Coast From San Francisco

Start: San Francisco, California

End: Redwood National Park, California

Distance: 311 miles

Highway 1 from San Francisco up to Mendocino Coast and Redwood National Park is one of the most beautiful drives on the planet, maybe comparable to the Canadian Icefields Parkway in Banff and Jasper National Parks in its grandeur. One is through the mountains and the other along the Pacific, both equally fantastic. 

You can do a loop or drive out-and-back from San Francisco. The route on 101 is inland and boring but it’s a lot faster.

The route on Highway 1 is drop-dead gorgeous but very time-consuming because of the many stops, activities, and the winding road. You can do 101 going one way and loop back on Highway 1 to get both the benefits. 

The drive from San Francisco to Redwood National Park is 320 miles and takes about six hours on 101. You can choose to go further up or do a shorter route depending on your timeline. 

Some of the top attractions on the drive include Redwood National and State Parks where you can spend a few days and do many hikes and activities.

The scenic Avenue of the Giants runs parallel to the freeway and has many amazing stops. You can drive the entire road or a section as you coast through redwood trees and stop at many state parks along the way. 

Another recommended stop is at the Laguna Point Beach at MacKerricher State Park, which offers some of the most spectacular tide pools absolutely worth visiting for half a day or more.

Additionally, next to MacKerricher State Park is Glass Beach, a popular spot for finding sea glass — though note that because so many people take the sea glass it’s becoming increasingly harder to find.

There are many more attractions along the drive so you can take a day or a few days to drive. 

This is a great road trip for solo travelers because it’s an amazing way to experience natural wonders in peace. The solo road trip allows for solitude but it also offers fun beaches and mountain towns with great food and company. Moreover, the drive is very safe for the solo traveler. 

– Jyoti from Story at Every Corner

22. Skyline Drive In Virginia

Start: Front Royal, Virginia (northern entrance to Skyline Drive)

End: Rockfish Gap exit, Virginia

Distance : 105 miles

Skyline Drive is pure sky! From the second you enter this highway winding through Shenandoah National Park at Front Royal until you exit at the Rockfish Gap Entrance Station there is a big blue sky ahead. And if you’re lucky enough to own a convertible, you will feel like an eagle on your solo trek. 

No matter what season you visit Shenandoah National Park—spring, summer, fall, or winter—you’ll delight in the deep forests, curving roads, and waterfalls to be discovered. Wild creatures abound, including bats, turkeys, and black bears. 

Located within convenient driving distance of Richmond, Charlottesville, and Washington, DC, Shenandoah National Park attracts solo runners, hikers, and walkers.

This is a great getaway for city folk especially with all the Airbnb rentals available. That being said, if you want to stay at the park campgrounds or at Skyland Resort and Big Meadows Hotel , you need to book early. 

Note: Depending on what season you visit, the 105-mile Skyline Drive can turn into a traffic jam. This is also not a road built as a raceway. Skyline Drive weaves its way across western Virginia with a speed limit of 35 mph.

For Washingtonians, the best entrance is the Front Royal Entrance. 

Stop at the Dickey Ridge Visitors Center to shop for books on hiking or get a panoramic portrait. There are regular stops along the way where you can park in a lot to hike through forests, climb Stony Man or Hawksbill, check out the Appalachian Trail, or meditate at the Shenandoah waterfalls.

Expect to take three hours traveling the entire length of the park on Skyline Drive. 

Skyline Drive ends at Rockfish Gap; it is the northern entrance to the Blue Ridge Parkway. There are 200,000 acres of protected land at Shenandoah National Park for you to explore.

– Terri at FemaleSoloTrek.com

Renting A Car For Your Solo Road Trip

Need a rental car for road tripping by yourself in the USA?

Use  Discover Cars  to quickly compare your car rental options. Their comparison tool does the homework for you, so there’s no need to have up 10+ tabs trying to figure out which company is the most affordable. Actually, you can save up to 70% using their tool!

How To Road Trip Alone

There are numerous advantages and disadvantages to traveling alone , though ultimately solo travel is an empowering experience that gives you total freedom over your itinerary.

That being said, if it your first time heading out on a solo adventure by car, the following solo road trip tips can help:

-Make sure you have good car insurance as well as roadside assistance (like AAA) in case of an emergency.

-Travel with solo road trip essentials like a spare tire, extra food and water, a sleeping bag and pillow, and sunglasses.

-Know your limits when it comes to how far you can drive, especially as nobody else will be in the car to help keep you awake.

-Keep loved ones informed of your travel plans and check in regularly. This way your absense will be noticed right away in an emergency.

-Install personal safety apps on your phone — like the Emergency App from the American Red Cross.

Travel Insurance For Your Solo Road Trip

When visiting the USA — or anywhere else in the world — it’s wise to get travel insurance.

One of the  best travel medical insurance for travelers  is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

What solo road trip ideas would you add to this list?

Enjoyed this guide to the best solo road trips in the USA? Pin it for later!

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48 Money-Saving Tips for a Cheap Road Trip

Home » Blog » U.S.A. » 48 Money-Saving Tips for a Cheap Road Trip

In this article, we’re sharing our top money-saving tips so you can plan a cheap road trip (without sacrificing fun and adventure!).

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of setting off with a full tank of gas, open road and lots of adventures ahead of you. Road trips can actually be a great way to explore on a budget because you don’t have to deal with costly flights.

That said,  planning a road trip  ain’t always cheap. Gas can add up and eating out for each meal will start to take a toll on your wallet (and waistline!).

If you don’t stay on top of your spending, you could be looking at crushing your budget in just a few days… But fear not, we’re here with some money-saving tips to help you stay on top of your road trip budget, while still having the time of your life.

You see — we’re kind of obsessed with road trips, and it’s our preferred way to travel (most of the time!). In fact, we’ve taken  road trips across the USA  and all over the world including places like  New Zealand  and  Iceland !

Over the years, we’ve picked up a ton of super handy money-saving tricks. Because another thing we’re obsessed with is traveling on a budget (so we can do more of it!).

In this article, we’ll walk you through some practical and creative tips so you can plan a super cheap road trip without sacrificing fun!

Article Contents

• Cost of a Road Trip
• Budget Tips for  before  your Road Trip
• Find Cheap Accommodation
• Save Money on Food
• Save on Transportation Costs
• Find Cheap Road Trip Activities

Intrigued by #vanlife?  Why not consider renting a campervan on your road trip?! We put together an entire guide to the best  campervan rental companies in the US , including exclusive discounts just for you!

Average cost of a road trip

If you’re planning a road trip and you don’t have a bottomless bank account (wouldn’t that be nice?!), you’ve probably found yourself wondering,  “How much does a road trip actually cost?”

The answer is going to vary a lot depending on many factors:

• a) Where in the world are you road tripping?  Even the region you’ll be exploring can make a huge impact. Road tripping in California will come at a higher cost than say, Wisconsin.
• b) How big of a distance are you planning to cover?  If you’re driving from New York City to Miami, you’ll have to fill up your gas tank a lot more than someone who is only covering a small area.
• c) How many people are on your road trip?  If you’re traveling solo, you’ll have very different expenses than a family of four!
• d) What is your plan for accommodation?  You see, “road trip” can mean a lot of different things depending on who you’re talking to. Someone who is planning to stay in hotels the entire trip will have a much different budget than someone who is camping in a tent along the way.
• e) How would you describe your travel style?  Some people go all out for vacations, signing up for every imaginable tour and eating at the finest restaurants in each location. Others find road trips to be the perfect opportunity to save money by finding free things to do and packing a cooler full of food. There’s nothing wrong with either mindset, and likely, you fall somewhere in the middle (I know we do).

And these are just some of the factors that go into determining how much money a road trip will cost.

But we’re not gonna just leave you hanging there with nothing…

We tallied up every single expense we incurred on a 3-month long road trip, and we’ve broken it down just for you.

A few things to note about the  type  of road trip this was:

• Length:  3 months (mid-May through mid-August, 2017)
• Location:  Washington State, Idaho, Utah, Nevada & Arizona (just a little bit of each!), California, Oregon, Vancouver area
• People:  2 of us
• Type of road trip:  We were living and traveling in a campervan, so we rarely paid for Airbnbs or hotels (we typically camped for free, with paid campgrounds every once in a while)
• Travel style:  We were pretty strict with our budget, though we splurged every once in a while on bucket list experiences, like a tour of Antelope Canyon, a night out in Las Vegas, and a whale watching trip in Vancouver.

We spent roughly $85 a day on this road trip.

Want more info?  Find out exactly  how much money we spent on this road trip . Plus, you’ll see our costs broken down by category so you have a good idea of what to expect for your own road trip.

Now, let’s jump into some practical tips that’ll help you save money and stick to your budget…

Before your road trip, do these things to save money…

One of the biggest pieces of advice we can give you is to  plan ahead.

Now, this doesn’t mean you should plan out every hour of your trip (in fact, definitely  don’t  do that!). Allow for spontaneity, but giving the major logistics some serious thought will ensure that you don’t waste unnecessary money  and  you have an incredible time.

Here are some things to do  before  your trip so you set yourself up for the best (and cheapest!) possible road trip…

1. Set a Road Trip Budget

We’re huge fans of setting budgets in order to hold ourselves accountable. If sticking to a budget is important to you, we’d highly recommend coming up with your own spending plan based on the type of trip you’re taking.

Costs to consider for your own road trip:

• Gas:  this category is pretty straightforward
• Accommodation:  this could be hotels, Airbnbs or campgrounds
• Food : this could include restaurants AND groceries. You’ll also want to think about the cost of snacks, coffee, alcohol, ice cream… ALL the good stuff!
• Entertainment : any fun things you plan to do along the way — hiking permits, entry fees, tours, rental equipment, excursions, etc.
• Miscellaneous:  these are little expenses that don’t really fit elsewhere — like ice for your cooler, paying for showers (if you’re staying mostly at campgrounds), electricity hookups (if you have an RV), propane, parking fees, tolls, medicine, paying for WiFi, toiletries, souvenirs, gifts, etc.
• Emergency:  we all hope you won’t need to pay for unforeseen circumstances, but it’s a good idea to be prepared. This might mean getting your vehicle serviced on the road, parking or speeding tickets, tow truck, medical expenses, etc.

What’s your daily budget?

Remember, we spent roughly $85 per day on our USA road trip.

• If you, too, will be camping, this could be a good number to start with. If you aren’t so budget-focused, you may want to increase this number. And on the other hand, if funds are very tight, you could likely spend less.
• If you will be staying in Airbnbs and hotels along the way instead of camping, add the average amount you plan to spend per night to your daily budget.

Psst! Get motived and inspired for your next adventure with this list of  road trip quotes  (+ graphics!).

2. Be prepared to keep track of it all

If you have followed this blog for any amount of time, you know that we love keeping track of our travel budget.  It is the best way for us to stay on top of our spending and hold ourselves accountable.

There are many apps out there that can give you a visual of how much you’re spending and what you’re spending it on. We love  Trail Wallet  because it was designed by travelers and has some pretty sweet features. You set your own categories, so you can see a visual breakdown of how much you’re spending on food, gas, and even beer! 

Insider tip:  If we go over our budget one day, we try to make up for it the next day by spending less. It’s all about balance! And when you make it sort of a game, it’s almost kind of — dare I say —  fun!

3. Avoid holidays (if possible)

If you can, skip traveling to popular places over holiday weekends, and possibly the week before and after, as prices will be inflated (plus, it’ll be extra crowded).

For example, our road trip brought us through Las Vegas over the Fourth of July… That was a pretty terrible move on our part because the prices of just about everything were much higher than usual. (Spoiler Alert: We were still able to find some  sneaky ways to enjoy Vegas on the cheap !)

4. Be prepared

Think about the places you’ll be visiting and start collecting tips that are specific to that location — everything from things to see and do, where to eat, and also budget tips.

If you’re going to a notoriously expensive place, do a quick Google search like “Vegas on a budget” to get location-specific tips. You could find some good insider tips or even deals on hotels, flights and restaurants. 

5. Put some thought into your packing

Think ahead of time what gear and supplies you will need. For instance, if you want to go from the desert to the mountains, you’ll have to make sure you have the appropriate clothing for each climate. This will save you from having to buy clothing items on the road that you already have at home.

And it goes beyond clothing… Planning on backcountry camping? Make sure you bring your tent and sleeping bags on your road trip so you don’t have rent from an outfitter. If you think you’ll be tubing on a river, be sure to pack that tube that’s collecting dust in your garage.

Even if there are some pieces of gear that you need to buy, it’s better to do this before your trip because you can do proper research, choose the best brands, and maybe even score a deal. If you are on the road when you discover you forgot to pack something, you’ll be left with whatever’s available — sometimes it’s not the best quality or price!

Speaking of packing…

We created a  road trip packing list  just for you! No matter what type of road trip you’ve got planned, we’ve got you covered with an ultimate packing list that’ll ensure you don’t forget essential items (there are some things on this checklist that you probably haven’t thought about!). Plus, we’ve included insider tips and advice on making your next road trip go as smoothly as possible!

Find cheap accommodation on a road trip

Accommodation is one of the most expensive portions of a road trip. We traveled the US in a campervan for more than 3 months, so we rarely had to pay for hotels. It saved us money and added to the adventure!

In this section, we break down how to find free campsites as well as how to save money on hotels if camping just isn’t your thing. 

6. Swap your car for a campervan

If you’re at all curious about #vanlife, we’d encourage you to give it a try!

Traveling in a campervan can actually save you a lot of money:

• no need to pay for expensive hotels
• it’s easy to find free camping in a van (more on that below!)
• you can easily cook, saving money on meals

We’ve built two of our own campervans and it’s safe to say we’re obsessed! If you don’t have the time (or interest!) in building your own conversion but you still want to give van life a test drive, you may want to consider renting one. Check out our list of top companies for  USA Campervan Rentals , from budget to bougie.

Or, if you’re planning on exploring a certain region and want more specific recommendations, click on one of the links below.

• Campervan rentals in Portland, Oregon
• Campervan rentals in Seattle, Washington
• Campervan rentals in Salt Lake City, Utah

If you’re renting on a super tight budget, one company we’d recommend looking into is  Escape Campervans . They have 12 different locations across North America and come fully loaded with all the gear you need for an epic road trip. Plus, their rates are fair and affordable.  BONUS:  We’ve partnered with Escape to give you a 10% off discount when you use our  link !

Considering building your own budget-friendly campervan?  We’ve explained  exactly how we built ours  (with tutorials you can copy!) for SUPER cheap!

7. Find free campsites

Camping might seem like a much cheaper alternative to staying in hotels, and  it is . But sometimes it’s not as cheap as you might think. Some campsites can cost up to $35 – $40 per night.

If you’re on a long road trip (or just on a super tight budget!), those accommodation costs can add up. Fortunately, there are tons of free camping opportunities!

We’ve written an entire  guide to free camping in the USA , but here are some quick takeaways:

• National Forest campgrounds  are often much cheaper and sometimes free.
• Also, try searching for  BLM land (Bureau of Land Management) , which is free to camp on, but varies in facilities. Sometimes these sites have pit toilets, and other times BLM sites are primitive and don’t offer any facilities.
• Some states have lots of land that is solely for  free  dispersed camping .  (We found that the west coast of the United States has a lot more free camping opportunities than elsewhere in the country.)
• Stay in a Walmart parking lot!  (No, we’re not kidding!) Many Walmarts across the US allow customers to stay overnight in their parking lots for free. Bonus: You can use the restroom (this works best at stores that are open 24/7) and stock up on anything you might need. And head out first thing in the morning – it’s not really a place you wanna linger, if you know what I mean! But before you park, be sure to read the signs in the parking lot and make sure camping is allowed in that particular store.

8. Download THIS camping app

We’ve already given you the skinny on some of the places you can camp for free… but here’s something you should know: Finding the best places to camp can be difficult unless you know exactly  where  to look.

For that reason, we love camping apps that show us GPS pins exactly where we can set up camp for the night (legally).

Our favorite camping app is The Dyrt because they have the largest network of campsites in the USA. Simply set your filter to only show you the free campsites, and voila — free camping is made easy!

Want a major bonus?! (Yes, you do!)   Use this link  to get 30 days of The Dyrt’s Pro Membership totally free (no strings attached).

9. Compare hotels & Airbnbs

Depending on where in the world you are, your accommodation options can vary quite a bit. In some cities, Airbnbs are a fantastic option, and in other places, the selection leaves a lot to be desired. And in other locations still, rental properties may be illegal. Do some research on each place you intend to stay.

We personally compare Airbnb and Booking.com for each location and see what options each gives us.

Some things to consider:

• Airbnbs sometimes give you access to free laundry, which can be a big perk
• Booking an Airbnb likely means you’ll have a fully-stocked kitchen and can cook meals to save money
• Look into parking costs for both Airbnbs and hotels

Hotels sometimes have perks that Airbnbs can’t offer and vice versa, so compare them fully!

Want more tips?  We have loads of info on how to book Airbnbs, red flags to look out for, and other tips in our  Guide to Airbnb .

10. Loyalty can pay off

Be loyal to your favorite hotel booking system. Your loyalty will sometimes pay off with a free night or another great deal.

Personally, we typically book with  Booking.com  for hotels in the USA. 

11. Try  Hotel Tonight

In big cities, like Miami, New York, Chicago, Las Vegas and LA,  Hotel Tonight  can be a great money-saving app to try.

How it works:  Hotels that aren’t fully booked will offer up their vacant rooms to users of this app for a steep discount. The only tradeoff is that you can’t book too far in advance – 7 days max. But sometimes this works out well on a road trip if you don’t know exactly where you’ll be each night.  

Save money on food

Sampling amazing food is one of the best parts of any trip. But, it sure can add up quickly!

We actually have a ton of ways we save money on food, while not denying ourselves of trying new dishes along the way. We’re about to share all our tips with you!

12. Be prepared to cook

Having the ability to cook meals along your road trip can save you hundreds of dollars along the way.  Plus, you probably won’t want to be stuck going to Taco Bell or Hardee’s for every meal because there’s no other option.

Additionally, you can make your camping meals special by buying local ingredients, like fresh clams on the Oregon coast (pictured above) for a deliciously cheap meal!

Tips for cooking on the road

When you’re traveling in a campervan, it’s easy to cook many of your meals. You’ll likely have a stove, pots, pans and everything you need to prepare most meals. And there’s nothing quite like cooking up your favorite meal with a stunning view to match. (Honestly, it’s one of our  favorite parts of vanlife !).

But we’ve also been on road trips in our car where we don’t have the luxury of a kitchen. We have tips for both situations below: 

1. Traveling in a campervan or RV?  Lucky you! Cooking a variety of meals will be really easy.

• Be sure you have lots of spices to add variety to your cooking. If you have lots of options, you’ll actually want to cook instead of getting bored with campervan food.
• Also, pack plastic containers so you can save leftovers or portions of unused vegetables to prevent waste.
• A good knife will go a long way.
• If you’re considering building a campervan, check out exactly how we made our  dream vanlife kitchen .
• Doing things pretty simple? We built a super  easy and cheap kitchen  for our first campervan, which made it easy to cook on the road without being too complicated.

2. Traveling in a car?  This will make cooking a little more tricky, but it’s definitely doable. 

• A cutting board and a good knife will make it possible to snack on fruits and veggies, as well as have fresh salads for meals. Even if you don’t have a stove, a cutting board and knife should definitely be on your packing list.
• Mini Backpacking Camp Stove : It is tiny, so it hardly takes up any space. This is best if you have a small car or are planning to go on backcountry trips. You will only be able to cook simple meals with this device.
• 2-Burner Coleman Stove : This is what we had in our campervan, but if you have a larger vehicle, it is a good option. You can cook a couple of things at once, and it will allow you to use bigger pans and cook more interesting meals.

Want camping meal ideas?  You’re in luck because we’ve compiled a handful of  our favorite road trip meals . Each of these meals is pretty simple to make, healthy (we’re all about the veggies!), and cheap. Bonus: Most of these meals can be easily adapted to be vegetarian and/or gluten-free, so they’re suitable for many people.

13. Keep it chill

With a cooler, you can save leftovers or just keep your produce fresh and ready for your next meal. Saving food saves money. And food waste just sucks in general for so many reasons. So avoid it as best you can!

We have  this insulated cooler  (and are obsessed!), and wish we’d had it on our first road trip, as we wouldn’t have had to deal with so much melty ice! That said, even a cheap cooler is better than nothing!

14. Stock up on staples at home

Before you leave on your road trip, stock up with your favorite staple snacks and shelf-stable items. You know what grocery stores around you have the best deals.

We are admittedly addicted to Trader Joe’s, and we’ve found they have some of the best deals on healthy snacks like dried fruit and nuts. So before any road trip, we hit up TJs to stock up!

15. Get grocery discount cards on the road

If you’re road-tripping far from home, chances are you’ll be shopping at grocery stores you don’t have in your neck of the woods.

Many big chains, like Safeway and Kroger, have free loyalty cards that give you discounts on all your groceries.

We were surprised how much money we saved by getting a Safeway card while traveling on the west coast. On a previous trip out east, we saved a ton of money with our Kroger card.

16. Learn to love picnics

Picnics can be super cheap and will allow you to enjoy your lunch with a view.

Insider Tip:  Picnics will be so much better if you’re prepared and pack a blanket, a small cooler, utensils, plates and perhaps even a bottle opener (for all that wine!).

17. Have meals “on deck”

You can make some epic meals on the road… But not every meal has to be fancy or overly planned out. In fact, we’d recommend having some meals on hand that are just that — super simple to make.

We always have a couple of “reserve meals” that don’t require much preparation in case we end up somewhere where everything is way overpriced or closed.

Here are some simple meal ideas:

• One favorite of ours is Indian meal packets. We typically buy them at Trader Joe’s (pictured above), but you can find the Tasty Bite brand in most supermarkets. We typically cook minute rice, quinoa or couscous to have along with the packet. In a pinch, you can even cook these packets in a microwave.
• Another idea is gnocchi and pesto. It requires just a few minutes on the stove, and both ingredients are shelf-stable and don’t need to be refrigerated. Regular pasta works well too, but requires a bit longer cooking time. If you have other ingredients, you can add them, but it’s good on its own too.

“Reserve meals” may not be our favorite on the road, but they have saved us when we arrive in a campground late at night and the only option is overpriced (and gross!) gas station sandwiches.

18. Have snacks on hand

Pack high-protein snacks so you can keep hunger at bay and aren’t tempted to get that box of gas station donuts in a moment of weakness. This will help your waistline and your wallet. And it’ll keep you from getting hangry.  You’re welcome.

Need some ideas?  Check out this list of some of  our favorite on-the-go snacks !

19. Make eating out special

Eating out for  every  meal can be tempting, but it’ll drain your wallet more quickly than betting on the lottery. Don’t get me wrong… Eating out is part of the fun of traveling, but our advice is to do so  only  at places you don’t have at home.

Research the restaurants in towns you’ll be passing through, and make an effort to dine at those that are super unique, serve up local specialties or are places that residents rave about.

• Driving on the Oregon Coast?  You’ve gotta try some fresh and local seafood!
• In Los Angeles?  Don’t miss authentic Korean food in K-Town and some pretty damn good tacos.
• Exploring Portland?  Hit up the food trucks with the longest lines (the wait is usually worth it!).

Those are the eating experiences that you’ll remember. Avoid places like McDonald’s (unless you need AC and an ice cream cone on a hot day #beenthere!) or chain restaurants that could be in any city.

20. Eat out for lunch instead of dinner

If there’s a restaurant you just  have  to try, but it’s known for steep prices, plan to go there for breakfast or lunch instead of dinner.

We’ve sometimes found that restaurants will have items that are similar to their dinner menu, but are smaller portions sizes and therefore have smaller pricetags! This is a great way to try a specific restaurant while still sticking to your budget.

21. Split your splurges

When there’s a local specialty or an ice cream shop that looks amazing, don’t pass it up.

But if you want to stay under your budget, split it with your travel companion (if you have one!) so you can both try it, while only spending half the money.

22. Ask locals where they eat

A lot of times the top-rated restaurants on Trip Advisor are the more expensive restaurants locals seek out on special occasions. But if you’re on a road trip, “special occasion meals” every night will add up FAST.

Asking where locals flock on a regular night out is a good way to find hidden spots that are reasonably priced and not packed with the “Trip Advisor tourists”.

23. Seek out local specials

If your road trip falls over some weekdays, check out the town calendars, browse local Facebook Groups, and ask your hotel/Airbnb if there are any local specials nights.

Oftentimes there are fun events, like Trivia Nights and many small restaurants even have a local’s night where they have a special, less expensive menu.

24. Meal plan

Planning your meals ahead is going to save you time and money. It’ll also ensure you don’t miss out on local specialties. Again, with all road trip planning, this doesn’t have to be super-specific. You don’t need to know exactly what dish you’re going to order or even which specific restaurant you plan to eat at (though, if that’s how you roll, more power to you!).

Instead, on your itinerary make notes for which days you know you definitely want to eat out and which meals you plan to cook.

Like pretty much every other aspect of your road trip, having a game plan ahead of time will help you save money in the long run.

25. B.Y.O.C. (Bring your own Coffee)

If you’re a coffee drinker like us, pack your own French press (or Aeropress!) and favorite grounds. You could also stock up on beans from local coffee roasters along the way (and what a perfectly practical souvenir to bring home with you!).

These items don’t take up much space and it will save you time and money from stopping at Starbucks every day.

26. Stay hydrated on the cheap

One thing that might not be on your mind as you’re planning your road trip is where you’re going to get water from along the way.

Buying bottles of water is not only costly over time, but it is terrible for the environment.

Instead, get a large water jug and fill it up at parks, campgrounds and drinking fountains to avoid buying new bottles all the time. This saves money and  plastic waste too , which is a win-win.

Related reading:  We’ve got lots more  eco-friendly tips for your road trip !

27. Seek out happy hours

It’s a good time to get great deals at some of a city’s best restaurants and gives you the chance to brush shoulders with the locals.

How to find local happy hours:

• Do a simple Google search for “happy hour in [city name]” to find listicles.
• Search “happy hour” in Google Maps, and you’ll find local spots where people have left reviews including the phrase “happy hour”.
• Ask your hotel or Airbnb for recommendations.

28. Pack a growler (for beer drinkers)

If you are anything like us, trying local breweries is something you look forward to on road trips. It’s a fun way to experience the local vibe and support small brewers. We typically get one pint at a brewery to enjoy the atmosphere. If we like the beer, we often fill up our growler instead of ordering a second.

It’s cheaper than getting another pint or even stocking up at a liquor store.  Our campervan became our favorite happy hour spot!)

29. Take advantage of free breakfasts

If you’re staying in hotels on your road trip, try booking some that include free breakfasts. This eliminates one meal each day that you need to pay for on your road trip.

30. Book accommodation with a kitchen

We love staying in Airbnbs for many reasons, one of them being the access to a kitchen. This allows us to easily cook our meals so we don’t feel the need to eat out every time we get hungry.

Alternatively, some long-stay hotels have basic but nice kitchens too.

Save money on transportation

Gas will likely be one of the largest expenses during your road trip. It adds up quickly, especially if you’re driving a bigger rig, like a campervan or RV.

We’re sharing our best advice for saving money on gas, as well as a few other budget tips to keep in mind.

31. Find Cheap Gas

Don’t get gouged on gas prices!  There are a couple tried and true ways to find the cheapest gas in your area, no matter where you are:

• Our favorite is to use  Google Maps  (because we always have it open on the road anyway!).  Type “gas” in the search bar and you’ll see where the nearby gas stations are along with most of the prices per gallon.  Sometimes it’s a matter of a few cents difference, but there were more than a few times where we saved a ton! Once, we found gas for $2.60 per gallon when most of the gas stations nearby were around $3.80. We had to drive a half-mile out of the way, but we saved more than $10, so it was completely worth it.
• We secretly get really excited when we save money on gas. One great app to save money on gas is  Gas Buddy . Simply input your location and Gas Buddy shows you the cheapest gas around you. This app alone can save you hundreds of dollars when traveling across the USA.

Pro tip:  Most gas stations off the highway are more expensive than those just a short drive off the main road. We found that Chevrons usually had the most expensive gas in the Western United States, while AmPm, ARCO and Maverik had more reasonable prices on average.

32. Plan a route

Map out where you’re going so you don’t have to backtrack. Getting lost along the way can be part of the adventure, but that extra gas money can add up.

33. Make sure you’re covered

We have told you  why we never travel overseas without travel insurance , and we think it’s just as important to have really good car insurance before setting out on a road trip.

Choose a policy that offers emergency roadside coverage, so you’re not stranded in the middle of Utah after overheating.  Our policy, for instance, covered towing over 100 miles, while others only cover under 5 miles. Some policies even cover hotel stays until your vehicle is fixed. Do your research and find an insurance policy that fits your needs. 

34. Make sure your car is fuel-efficient

Do your budget a favor, check over your car and make sure your tires are at the proper air level and make sure your air filter is clean. Both can affect your gas mileage. Also, make sure you’re staying on top of oil changes along the way in order to avoid car trouble on the road.

35. Get a gas card

Before going on a big road trip, do some research and consider  opening a new credit card  that has good rewards for gas transactions.

You’ll be filling up your tank a lot, so it is nice to get a little something back. If you’ll be eating out much of the time or staying in hotels, consider a card that rewards for those purchases as well.

36. Steer clear of tolls

In your Google Maps settings, check the box that says “avoid tolls”.

There are some cities where tolls are unavoidable, but in others, these are only slightly faster and the tolls can add up quickly.

One time on a  road trip in Iceland , we accidentally paid a $10 toll by taking a road that was 2 minutes faster than one with no toll.

In cities that are infamous for their tolls, like Chicago, do a little pre-planning, so you find the best route for your trip and don’t get stuck paying unnecessary fees for tolls.

37. Use public transportation

In big cities, park outside the city and take public transport into downtown to avoid ridiculous parking fees and annoying traffic situations. 

38. Get a cheap oil change

If you’re on a long-term road trip and need to get an oil change on the road, try Jiffy Lube or Valvoline. They both have locations all around the United States and have coupons available all the time, making either of them a good choice if you’re on a budget and can’t make it to your regular mechanic.

39. Slow down

One of the most expensive parts of a road trip is the gas. Sometimes a time crunch won’t allow you to take it slow, but if time allows, slow down.

This will not only mean you get to explore each place you visit in greater depth without being rushed, but you’ll also save money on your average gas cost per day.

40. If you need to rent a car…

If you don’t have car of your own, or if you’re coming from very far away, you might be looking at renting a car for your road trip. We’ve personally had really good luck with finding deals with Discovery Cars .

They compare all the top rental car companies and show you the best cars for your dates. We’ve rented cars using Discovery Cars for less than $20 a day. But of course, compare their prices to other platforms for your dates and location to find the best possible price.

Search & Compare Rental Car Prices

• Discover Cars : We personally use this aggregate site to compare rental car prices from all the big name companies and get the best price possible. 
• Booking.com :  We’ve had good experiences finding rental cars with this site (formerly RentalCars.com) in the past. 

41. Skip the rental car insurance

When you rent your car, don’t buy insurance from the rental car company. It’s almost always unnecessary!

Not only is it wildly overpriced, but chances are if you have a major credit card, it already covers rental cars. And some car insurances (that you already have for your car at home) cover rental car insurance too.

So why waste your money being double or even triple insured? Check with your credit card company or car insurance company ahead of booking your rental car just to be sure. Find the right credit card for you from the list of the best  travel credit cards .

How to save money on activities

What’s a road trip if you never get out of the car?! Some of your best memories will be from the things you do on your road trip stops. But some activities can be extremely expensive.

We’ve got some tips that’ll help you save money on your road trip, while still doing some bucket list activities!

42. Get a National Park Pass

We’ve done the math for you:  In short, if you plan to go to more than 3 National Parks in one year, this is a good investment.

At $80 it might seem kind of expensive upfront, but it easily saves you money in the end. If you plan to spend a lot of time in one state or region in particular, look into those state or local passes too.

Bottom line:  If you are headed to 3 or more US National Parks in the same year, it will save you money to buy the  America the Beautiful National Park Pass .

43. Plan out splurges ahead of time

When you’re on vacation, it can be tempting to splurge on just about everything. Ice cream cones twice a day, expensive tours, more souvenirs than you can count… and pretty soon, you’ve spent way more than you were planning to.

Instead, limit yourself by planning your splurges in advance.

Plan to go whale watching, but pass on the double-decker sightseeing bus. And plan to only buy one meaningful souvenir instead of accidentally filling up an extra suitcase.

44. Bucket List vs. Ordinary

Know the difference between a bucket-list-worthy activity and something you could do anywhere. Oftentimes when we are in “vacation mode”, we splurge more easily than we would at home because we’re on holiday.

That’s fine sometimes, but if you’re on a budget it’s important to really think about whether the experience is “once in a lifetime” or something that will fade into the rest of your trip.

Before booking a spur-of-the-moment activity, ask yourself the following:

• Is this location known specifically for this activity? (A quick Google search like the one we did on Vancouver Island can help answer this question.)
• Can I do this at home? Anywhere else in the world?
• Will I regret  not  doing this activity?
• Will I regret this splurge?
• Can I cut my costs elsewhere to account for this splurge?

For example, when we were  spending time in Washington state  on Vancouver Island, we heard the whale watching was fantastic. We hadn’t budgeted for it, but after a simple Google search of “best places for whale watching in the world”, Vancouver Island repeatedly came up at the top.

Even though this was a splurge we hadn’t planned for, we realized that it was something we would regret  not  doing. It was an expensive activity, yes, but so worthwhile because it was special.  

45. Be wary of heavily touristed areas

It’s not uncommon for these areas to be overpriced and full of rip-offs.

For instance, many times there is free parking not far from paid parking. Sometimes you’ll see people charging a fee to take your photo when you can easily have a stranger take yours for free. And sometimes are often things for sale that aren’t necessary.

Be prepared with a more critical eye in these places, and you’ll be able to spot the scams.

Tip: We’ve put together tons of budget-friendly resources on how to tackle popular destinations like  Las Vegas  and  New York City  on a budget. 

46. Avoid tours (most of the time!)

One of the most expensive parts of travel are organized tours.

There are some activities or tours, like whitewater rafting or whale watching, for instance, that you just can’t do on your own. If these are important to you, plan these into your travels as splurges.

But those double-decker buses and guided city tours can easily be replicated. Go to the tour’s website and write down their itinerary. Do a little research on each stop, and voilà – you’ve got your own DIY city tour!

47. Call ahead about discounts

When booking tours and transportation, call the company and ask if there is a discount for booking in person or online. You’ve got nothing to lose, and maybe you’ll score a discount this way.

For example, when we were headed to Vancouver Island and it was cheaper to just show up at the port as opposed to reserving the ticket ahead of time online. On the other hand, many times there is a discount for reserving in advance online. 

48. Find free things to do

No matter where your road trip may take you, there should be a ton of free (or inexpensive!) activities to do. Simply Google “free things to do in [enter city name here]”, and you should find enough to get you started.

Free activities that we seek out anywhere in the world:

• farmers markets
• free live music
• exploring art galleries
• just to name a few!

Insider Tip:  If you’re in a town, type this phrase into Google to get some location-specific recommendations: “free things to do in [city name]”. Alternatively, yo could replace “free” with “cheap” for some more options!

You might also like…

• Ultimate Road Trip Packing List
• How to Plan an Epic USA Road Trip
• Best USA Road Trips
• Eco-Friendly Road Trip Tips

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We want to hear from you!

Where are you headed on our your road trip? Have you used any of these tips before? What other money-saving road trip travel tips do you have? Please share in the comments below.

Comments (19) on “ 48 Money-Saving Tips for a Cheap Road Trip ”

What are some practical tips for saving money on a road trip while still enjoying the adventure?

Your article link for the dyrt’s pro membership says 90 days free, but the link is for only 30 days.

We’re headed from California all the way to New York in about two weeks, so I’m so glad that I found this. Thanks for the help!

Thank you for sharing the valuable information through your blog as these are the common mistakes that you should avoid while hiring the van conversions company and from my view, the main mistakes that we should avoid are that the price should be checked and just ensure that does not charge any hidden tax as it is the common mistake the customers are facing while choosing the company.

Totally awesome tips!!! Thanks for sharing these road trip tips!

Found your post interesting to read. I can’t wait to see your post soon. Good Luck with the upcoming update. This article is really very interesting and effective.

You have been a great help to two 87 yr. old (active) folks. For 47 years we traveled in an RV Trailer. Just lost it and our car. Now we have a new car and will be tripping in it! Doing the Hotel Motel Airbnb route now. Thank you again for great ideas. Some trips will only be a week or two. Our Winter one in the past was 4-5 weeks in Tucson AZ (mid Jan. to …) We are having a hard time thinking ahead to the one in 2022. Thank you again. Happy trails!

Great information! Our road trip will be just getting from point A to point B and then C and back to A, but each leg will be a few days. Unfortunately we had to wait til we were old fogies to do it, but we’ll appreciate it nonetheless.

Glad you found some helpful tips! Wishing you a happy and safe road trip!

Very handy list. Do you have a place where you get into more specifics? (Like just WHERE you found places to shower) Love your lifestyle and I’m envious that you didn’t wait till you were old fogies before hitting the road :>)

Great question! we don’t have a list of the exact spots since it would be so specific and only helpful to people who are going to that same location. The best place to look for showers is on camping apps. iOverlander has a features where you can see shower icons on the map. And The Dyrt (and other camping apps) typically have descriptions of each campsite, including whether or not it has a shower. Also, gym chains (like Planet Fitness) are popular spots to shower for those on long road trips since the membership is so cheap and they are pretty frequent!

Woohoo, this is a great list! You have some really helpful ideas and tips. Couldn’t agree more on showering with your significant other, plus it’s another pair of hands to hold stuff in a potentially dirty campground shower! 🙂

Hehe, agreed! Glad you found some helpful ideas 🙂

Some top tips here! The less you spend on the travel the more you can do!

Exactly! This has been our motto for the last several years! Traveling more frugally = more travel (which is always better, in our opinions!).

Thank you for this incredibly informative post! Traveling around the USA in a campervan is on my bucket list – definitely saving this post for when that time happens 🙂

It’s an amazing experience, and definitely worthy of your bucket list! Happy planning 🙂

I had no idea that you could send an item to yourself care of a post office. That would be so helpful when you’re on an extra-long road trip.

Yep, very helpful indeed!

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THE ULTIMATE ROAD TRIP FOOD LIST: 50 Scrumptious Travel Snacks

Post Summary: The definitive road trip food list with 50 snack ideas and meals to keep you happy the entire car ride. Plus, tips for what else to bring and recommendations for the best road trip coolers.

Road trips are the classic adventure that everyone needs to do at least once in their life, whether you’re traveling solo, with your best buds, or packing in the whole family. What’s the secret to a great road trip? Besides having your maps already downloaded to your phone (travel must #1), it’s to have a collection of the best road trip food at your disposal. Being prepared with good travel food will ensure you don’t:

• Kill your travel mates because you’re hangry.
• Get killed by your travel mates because they’re hangry.
• Get lured in by every gasoline stop and somehow end up with bright orange Cheetos and Slim Jims.
• Waste your travel budget dining on Subway and Wendys road trip meals.

After road tripping with a toddler for half a year around the US, we’ve figured out the ultimate road trip food list so we can enjoy the journey together feeling nourished and happy. Our list includes road trip food ideas for adults and kids as well as healthy car snacks.

After the road trip food list, we’ve included non-food items you’ll want to bring and some tips on choosing the best road trip cooler.

Need More Road Trip Tips? Check out our other articles below:

The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: 41 Essentials For The Road 160 Fun, Deep, and Sometimes Silly Road Trip Questions 41 Fun and Challenging Road Trip Trivia Questions 17+ Fun Things To Do On A Road Trip How To Survive A Road Trip With A Toddler 40 Must Have Items To Have In Your Camper

*This road trip food list post may contain affiliate links, which means we might earn a small commission if you purchase from them. This is at no extra cost to you! We only recommend products and services we genuinely think are helpful.

The Ultimate Road Trip Food List

Healthy snacks for a road trip

We’ll start with healthy snacks for the road. I don’t know about you, but when we go on road trips, we tend to fall back on fast food and junk food. In an effort to have a quasi healthy road trip we make sure to include some healthy options so we can at least feel like we’ve balanced out all our snickers bars and Wendy’s frosties. Here’s our list of the best road trip foods that won’t leave you feeling sluggish at the end of the day. We also added in a few recommendations of some of our favorite brands.

Healthy Snacks For Car Rides 1. Fruit: Bananas, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, grapes, apples, oranges 2. Sliced veggies: carrots, cucumbers, celery, bell peppers, pickles, radishes 3. Cherry tomatoes 4. Olives (buy the pitted kinds) 5. Salsa 6. Deli sandwiches or wraps (already made from home or pre-purchased) 7. A simple charcuterie spread (summer sausage, pepperoni, sliced cheese, dried apricots, olives, crackers, etc.) 8. Popcorn 9. Yellow corn chips, blue corn chips, kale chips 10. Granola Bars and Energy Bars ( Munk Bars are our favorite! ) 11. Dried Fruit 12. Crackers (cheese crackers, saltines, whole wheat crackers, these almond crackers are my favorite!) 13. Pretzels 14. Nuts (almonds, peanuts, cashews, macadamia, walnuts, pecans) 15. Trail mix 16. Tuna (Get the kind that doesn’t need to be refrigerated! It can become a snack on crackers, a sandwich, or added to a salad) 17. Coconut chips ( Dang chips are our favorite. ) 18. Dark chocolate 19. Wasabi peas 20. Fruit leather 21. Whole-grain muffins 22. Bread (pretzel rolls, pita bread) 23. Water (Preferably in a water bottle like a Hydro Flask that will keep your water cold for hours.) *The following are all still healthy snacks for a road trip but will require a cooler. Skip them if you are going sans cooler. Further down, we’ll talk about the best road trip coolers. 23. Hard-boiled eggs 24. Small yogurt containers or drinkable yogurts 25. Humus 26. Guacamole 27. Pasta salad 28. Lentil salad 29. Grocery store salad kits (Can be eaten out of the bag! Just cut the top, pour in the salad dressing, and shake it away. You can also opt to do salads in a jar) 30. Cheese

Essential Road Trip Snacks

These road trip snacks might not be the healthiest, but look…you can’t always be perfect!

Road Trip Snack List 32. Beef Jerky 33. Chips 34. Fun candy (Any kind of candy that brings you joy for your road trip. Gummy bears, reeses pieces, airheads) 35. Ranch dip to go with your healthy veggies 36. Fun drinks (Just make sure the drink is able to be resealed or small enough that you’ll drink it all quickly. My favorite road trip drink is coconut water!) 37. Cookies

Road Trip Snacks For Kids And Toddlers

While we don’t put a distinction between road trip food for the adults and road trip food for kids, here are some fun ideas you can add in addition to the travel food listed above. We found that allowing for leniency with what we let our kid snack on will mean a more fun time for everyone in the car.

Road Trip Snacks For Toddlers and Kids 38. String Cheese or Babybels 39. Peanut butter pretzels 40. Clementines 41. Squeezable applesauce 42. Squeezable nut butters (peanut butter, almond butter, cashew butter) 43. Graham crackers 44. Goldfish 45. Fruit snacks 46. Fruit roll ups 47. Peanut butter and jelly sandwich 48. Dry cereal 49. Nutella 50. Snap pea crisps ( I love the wasabi ones from Harvest Snaps . I can only get them online because my grocery store never has them!)

Essential Non Food Items

Now that you’ve got your travel food and made your road trip food list, let’s talk about non food items to have on your road trip packing list. We are both advocates for minimal waste living so we do advise using reusable items like real utensils, glass containers, and reusable straws rather than single-use items. I know it can feel like a nuisance, but once you get used to doing it, it’s easy to integrate it into your habits. We’ve provided links to different products, so you can check out some good options.

-Trash bags (old shopping bags work well) – Stackable glass or plastic containers (While glass may feel like a hazard, I find that most of them are built for endurance and would require some extreme throwing around to actually break. Either way, bringing containers rather than an entire bag of snacks is a great space saver.) -Reusable straws (we like this multipack option here ) -Bento boxes (another option is to make individual bento boxes with everyone’s preferred snacks put in. It’s essentially a healthier version of a Lunchable. Great option if you’re traveling with kids.) Check out these cute bento boxes here . -Utensils -Plates -Paper towels -Hand sanitizer -Ziplock bags -Wipes -Cups if you want to share drinks -Ice packs for the cooler (We prefer to use reusable ice packs like these , but frozen water bottles or ice cubes in a ziplock back will do the job as well.) -Reusable grocery bag to carry your non-perishable stuff -Plastic tub (If you’re going on a long road trip and will have lots of snacks, a good option is to pack all your non-perishable items in a tub like this .) -Cooler

Related : A Comprehensive Guide To the Best Toddler Carriers For Traveling

Best Road Trip Coolers

If you’re going on a long road trip, you’ll definitely want to bring a cooler so you can have more options for the journey. Things to consider when deciding what kind of road trip cooler to bring.

• How much space will you have in your car?
• How many days will you be driving and subsequently how much food will you need?
• Cost of the cooler
• If you road trip or camp a lot and will use a cooler several times a year.

Yeti Roadi 24 Cooler

Our choice for the best road trip cooler is the Yeti Roadi 24 Cooler . It’s a mid-sized cooler that can fit a bottle of wine standing upright. We like its lightweight design and that its compact size can fit on the ground behind the passenger seat.

It has a mid-range price point, so if you are wanting something more economical, you’ll probably want our next pick.

Igloo MaxCold Cooler

If all you need is a no-frills cooler to keep your food cold, the Igloo Maxcold Cooler is a great option. The thin design also makes it a great choice for someone wanting to save room in the car.

Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze

If you like a soft cooler, the Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze consistently offers the best bang for your buck.

Yeti Tundra 45

Lastly, if you are wanting a high-end cooler that will be great for camping and can take the wear and tear of consistent use, the Yeti Tundra 45 is your best bet. Yeti is the reigning champion of coolers and you can’t go wrong with anything you purchase from them.

Before you head out on your epic road trip, we suggest packing the night before. Alleviating as much stress as possible on the day you leave, especially when you’re doing a road trip with a toddler , is key to enjoying the road trip journey. We find that the night before, it’s best to:

• Wash, cut, and peel all vegetables and fruit.
• Pack up all non perishable food and supplies.
• Prepare any road trip sandwiches you plan to eat.

Lastly, don’t forget to make sure all your tasty road trip snacks are within reaching distance in the car.

We hope you enjoyed our complete road trip food list. Happy road tripping!

** For more road trip inspiration follow us on Instagram . We travel… a lot.

NEED SOME TRAVEL INSPIRATION? A Complete Guide To A Utah National Parks Road Trip How To Plan A Cross Country Road Trip + Fun Routes To Take 10 National Parks To Visit In The East 50 Family Bucket List Experiences In The US

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Hi, we’re Christina and Brad, Idaho based writers and photographers who live to explore. We did a short stint of traveling full time with our two year old and discovered we're much happier as part time nomads. What does that mean? We travel a lot! And then we go home. We love helping fellow parents and everyday adventurers discover new places and experiences.

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105+ Easy Road Trip Meals & Snacks: Best Road Trip Food

Packed for Life contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See my Disclosure policy for more info.

Road trips are exciting adventures to take with your friends, family or solo. However coming up with a list of the best road trip food & easy road trip meals and snacks can be hard.

Which is where our ultimate list of the best food for road trips comes in handy. To help you avoid hangry companions, outrageous food costs, and unhealthy gas station food stops.

We’ve taken our share of cross country & multi-day road trips over the years, both as adults, and with kids from months old to teenagers. So we know quite a few tricks when it comes to road trip meal planning.

Our list includes easy ideas for healthy snacks, breakfasts, lunches & dinners, for all ages we love. As well as gluten-free, and vegetarian options too.

Plus we provide essential packing tips and a list of non-food items to bring along, at the end of this post. Hop in the car, & let’s go!

Table of Contents

ULTIMATE HEALTHY ROAD TRIP MEALS LIST

If you plan ahead and pre-make some yummy snacks and meals, your family will be well fed on the road. Whether you are heading on a Southwest USA road trip or a coastal road trip from Boston to Acadia National Park or elsewhere.

Healthy road trip food & easy meals the whole family will love.

Why Bring Make Ahead Meals For Road Trips?

Before I get into our epic food list, I’ll quickly go over a few reasons why we bring our own make-ahead road trip meals and snacks. And why you should too:

• Road trip meal planning is a great way to reduce fast food temptation, junk food and save money for your family road trip .
• Bringing good food for road trips frees up some of your hard earned cash to splurge on meals you will actually look forward to . 
• We find our own make-ahead meals & road trip food tends to be healthier.
• If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, creating a road trip meal plan will allow you to have safe meal options on the road.
• Have fun picnics at rest stops, parks, or in your hotel room along your long drive.
• Avoid hungry kidlets with healthy road trip snacks , so they can focus on road trip activities , not driving you crazy with whining. I know you feel me on this one!

Bringing your own food is well worth the time and money you can save on your adventure. Use our road trip planner to help organize your trip.

I love how make ahead easy travel meals are great for cutting down on the mess, stress and time it takes to prepare and clean up on the road. Because as a parent anything I can do to make my life easier is golden.

Road Trip Breakfast Ideas

We’ve found it’s easy to take these road trip breakfast ideas to go, or quickly eat hot in the morning.

As long as we’ve made them ahead of time, and brought them in our cooler. Or if we have access to hot water or basic kitchen facilities or a microwave.

Grab tasty breakfast recipes .

Cold, Non-Perishable Road Trip Breakfast Ideas

• Granola 
• Cereal Bars & Granola Bars
• Breakfast Bars
• Fruit & Veggie Pouches 

⭐️ PRO TIP : Bring a reusable coffee mug and water bottles for each family member. They’re a great option for filling up with hot water, tea, coffee and water on the go. We’ve found they’re less likely to spill in the car if you use a spill-proof refillable cup and snack cup for the littles.

Cold Breakfast Ideas for Road Trips

• Yogurt – Tubes, Drinks
• Fresh Fruit
• Rye Crisp Breads & Goat Cheese
• Chia Pudding – Make the night before
• Granola & Overnight Oats – Make the night before
• Muffins & Peanut Butter (or other nut or seed butters)
• Egg Muffins or Mini Quiches (To heat or not to heat. That is the question)
• Hard-Boiled Eggs
• Breakfast Cookies 
• Vegan Blueberry Muffins
• Bagels and Cream Cheese
• Peanut Butter and Banana Wrap
• No Bake Oat Bites 
• Apple Pie Oat Bliss Balls
• Croissant, ham, cheese
• Croissant, jam & cream cheese
• Pancake Sandwiches – nut butter / jam between two mini pancakes (make ahead)

Hot & Quick Breakfast Ideas

• Instant Oatmeal 
• Cup of Soup or canned soup
• Pre-made Mini Quiche (just heat up)
• Egg, Cheese, & avocado tortilla wrap
• Haloumi Cheese and Bacon Breakfast Sandwich
• One Pan Chickpea Hash (fried chickpeas, veggies, herbs) & Fried eggs

More kid friendly breakfast ideas here .

Road Trip Lunch Ideas

Road trip lunch ideas are probably the easiest for most people to come up with, when it comes to thinking of meal planning for road trips . We like to think of them as picnic lunches.

What is the first thing that comes to mind, but sandwiches. Sandwiches are such a staple we’ve given them their own section below. 

To be honest, I often just prepare and pack foods I would usually take for lunch at work, for the first day or two.

Then I add easy road trip lunches to grab and prep along the way, like sandwich fixings. Or cheese, meat  and cracker plates for a longer trip.

Easy Non-Refrigerated Road Trip Lunch Ideas

• Canned Tuna & crackers – The mini pull tab tins come in many flavours
• Protein Bars , Energy Bars
• Sardines or Mackerel canned with avocado, crackers or bread
• Snacks for lunch: Beef Jerky, Trail Mix, Smoothie Pouches, Nut Butter Pouches
• Peanut Butter (or other nut & seed butter) & Jam Wraps
• Canned grape leaf rolls

Cold Road Trip Lunches

• Sushi / nori rolls – sweet potato, cucumber and avocado,  smoked salmon, cucumber and avocado, smoked salmon & cream cheese
• Sandwiches (see Road Trip Sandwiches below for ideas) 
• Tortilla Pinwheels
• Meat Kabobs
• Pasta Salad
• Corn & Zucchini Fritters
• Fruit (apple slices, cantaloupe, grapes), cheese and bread or crackers
• Charcuterie plate – cheese, deli meats, olives, dried fruit
• Chickpea or Bean Salads
• Quinoa Salad
• Mason Jar Salad – keep the dressing separate
• Pre-made Quesadillas – Refried beans and cheese. Keep salsa & sour cream separate in small leak-proof containers

Sides to Add to Lunch Ideas

• Cut up veggie sticks and hummus
• Fruit – apple, berries, melon, grapes
• Homemade cookies or energy balls
• Cucumber, cherry tomatos & peppers salad

Road Trip Sandwiches

What’s a road trip, without a sandwich or two. In fact sandwiches are so iconic, portable, easy to make and ideal for lunch and family vacation dinners they deserve a section, all on its own.

For easy,  awesome sandwiches we’ve found you will only need a few things to mix and match:

• Bread: First you’ll need some kind of hearty bread (kaiser bun, wraps, pita, baguette, ciabatta)
• Protein: Pair with protein such as deli meat, sliced chicken or beef, bacon, eggs, tofu, nut butters
• Extras: Add on the extras such as cheese, lettuce, pickles, fruit 
• Condiments: mayo, mustard, olive tapenade, other sauces

Tasty Sandwich Ideas for Traveling:

• Cheddar and Jam
• Egg Salad 
• Cream cheese and cucumber
• Spicy Tuna and Cucumber – leave out the spice if it’s not your thing
• Pesto Egg Salad Baguette
• Ham & Cheese Baguette or Wrap
• Turkey and Cheese Baguette or Wrap
• Turkey Club Sandwich
• Turkey, Pear, Feta Wrap
• Apple, Cheddar and Mustard Sandwich
• Roasted Red Pepper & Hummus Sandwich
• Curry Chicken or Curried Chickpea Salad Sandwich

Tips for Packing Sandwiches on Road Trips

• Start with heartier bread or toast it first . Put a layer of mayo, or mustard on each side. It actually helps prevent soggy sandwiches.
• I often toast the bread, and then wait until it’s completely cooled before making and storing the sandwiches.
• Keep wet sandwich ingredients separate like tomatoes. We add them right before eating.
• Pack each ingredient separately . Then everyone can assemble their sandwich how they like, on-the-go. We’ve found this helpful with our pickiest eater.
• Pack sandwiches in a hard sided container . Either use reusable individual sandwich containers or larger leak-proof containers for multiple sandwiches. We also love silicone sandwich bags to cut down on plastic.
• Keep the sandwiches on top of the cooler for easy to grab meals on the road.

You may also like 50+ Easy to make, healthy road trip snack recipes

Easy Road Trip Meals Dinner Ideas

Dinner is the one meal we often splurge on, and choose to eat out at a local restaurant, instead of on the road when possible. 

I like to do a bit of research and see what the area is known for, or if there are special meals we can’t get at home. Also after a few days of packed road trip meals, it’s nice to sit down at a restaurant and have someone else clean up and organize.

However, there are times I find when you need a few dinner in the car ideas on hand. You can always re-use the lunch or even the travel breakfast ideas , because they are all tasty anytime of day. 

Check out our favourite easy vacation dinner recipes .

Cold Road Trip Dinner Ideas

• Pasta Salad & Greek Salad
• Cobb Salad 
• Other Cold salads – Potato, bean, egg, chickpea, salmon, tofu, quinoa, rice and bean
• Sandwiches – check out ideas in sandwich section
• Chicken salad / caesar wrap
• Falafel Wrap
• Rice Paper Rolls & Peanut Sauce
• Chicken wings & pre roasted veggies
• Grilled or roast chicken, rice and veggies
• Tortilla Chips, Bean Dip and Salsa
• Egg roll pinwheels with spinach, and cheese 
• Mason Jar grain + protein + roast veggies (pre-made)

Salad Tips – Keep the ingredients & dressing separate. That way each person can assemble to their liking, and the lettuce doesn’t get soggy from swimming in the dressing all day.  

KOA has 10 fun on-the go recipes to try.

Mason Jar Meal tips

Mason Jars are a fun and easy way to store pre-made meals.

They are fairly sturdy (I’ve dropped them many times without breaking them) and come in different sizes. The 500ml and 250 ml are perfect for individual meals.

Choose a grain + a protein + roasted, steamed or stir fried veggies and you have a delicious meal to go.

• Pre-cook a grain: brown rice, basmati rice, white rice, quinoa,
• Choose a protein : roast chicken or beef, curried chickpeas, tofu
• Cooked veggies: stir fries, steamed broccoli, curries, stew,

Hot Road Trip Dinner Ideas

One pan or pot dinner ideas are perfect for travel, camping and road trips. Especially if you ‘ve been entertaining the kids with road trip conversations all day.

As long as you remember the hot plate, or cook stove. I’ve been there, done that, forgetting the stove. Another option is to choose motels, or places to stay that have basic kitchen facilities. 

I’ve also gone the route of meal prepping ahead of time and putting individual meals in separate containers that are easy to reheat and clean up. 

If you are a camping family, what you plan for pre-made camping meals is similar.

Think easy camping type meals:

• Baked Beans
• Cup of Soup or Canned Soup
• Frozen Homemade Soup (use the first day or two after it defrosts. Bonus it helps keep the cooler cold)
• Bacon or Sausages and Eggs
• Quesadillas
• Rice and beans or ground beef for tacos or wraps
• Chickpea Curry and Rice (pre-make and heat up)
• Spaghetti 

ROAD TRIP SNACK & DRINKS LIST

We have a full article on our favorite road trip snacks to bring that both adults and kids will love. Good food for long journeys.

Here are a few snack ideas to get you started:

• Energy Balls
• Baby Carrots, Cherry Tomatoes, Snap Peas, Celery Sticks & Dip 
• Cheese and Crackers
• Apple Pear Muffins
• Jerky, Beef Sticks
• Potato Chips
• Plantain Chips
• Moon Cheese
• Cheese Crisps
• Seaweed Snacks
• String cheese
• Sunflower seeds
• Gluten-Free Bars –  We like these mini Gluten-Free Bars  

Who doesn’t drink too much on the road because they are avoiding using restrooms at pull-outs or gas stations?  

I’m guilty of this too, but this often leads me to crankiness and wicked headaches, sooo…… Do as I say, not as I do (said Parents everywhere).

Staying hydrated is super important. While water should be the number one choice, sometimes you need a little something different like:

• Coconut water
• Water with crushed berries, or cucumber slices, or lemon
• No sugar added fruit juices 
• Flavoured Sparkling water 
• Almond / Oat / Soy Milk

🚙 More road trip ideas 7 day Zion, Bryce and Grand Canyon itinerary

Road Trip Food & Meal Planning Tips

Meal Planning Tips

When meal planning healthy road trip foods, I think it’s important to consider a few key important things:

• What road trip meals you want to bring, and which one’s you’d like to buy.
• If travelling with kids, which foods do they already like. They aren’t going to magically start liking raw broccoli and raisins on your long trip. Adapt your food for road trips with kids.
• Road trip meal ideas – Make a list of food ideas for breakfast , lunch, dinner, snacks and drinks. Make sure they’re easy food to travel with.
• Creating a road trip grocery list is a good idea, so important items don’t get forgotten. But don’t stress, as usually you’ll be able to pick up ingredients along the way if needed.
• How to pack food for your road trip, so it doesn’t get squished, and stays cool longer.

With so much to do when planning a road trip, it’s sometimes hard to be prepared when it comes to traveling food.

Road Trip Food Tips

Beyond throwing a bunch of items into the cooler and food bag and hoping for the best. Let’s give you a few of my top tips to make packing a bit easier:

• Bread: Bring wraps, pitas and flatbreads – we find they take up less room, and won’t get squished like bread loaves
• Perishables: Eat your perishables and more fragile fruits first (bananas, raspberries, pre-cut fruit like melons, pineapple, mango etc.)
• Freeze Water bottles: When hot out, freeze a couple of the water bottles the night before. They’ll keep your cooler cold, and we love that they give us cold water to drink as they melt.
• Pre-Make Meals & Portion Out: Pre-make meals, and portion them out in mason jars or reusable plastic or glass containers.
• Place your cooler somewhere cool the night before, or pre-chill the cooler for up to 12 hours with ice / ice packs you won’t be using on your trip. 
• Lay solid blocks of ice or reusable ice packs on the bottom, plus put a layer of ice on the top
• Pack the cooler full – too much space helps the inside heat up faster
• Freeze food you won’t need for a couple of days, and use frozen water bottles to help keep the inside colder, longer
• Try to limit the number of times you open the cooler in the day.
• Pack your food in order of when you want to eat it, leaving the next day or two’s meals on top. 
• Garbage Bag for the car: We always have a designated garbage bag for the car. It helps to keep the garbage contained, and the car organized.
• Clean-Up Kit :  Bring a clean up kit. Kids, adults, toddlers all on occasion make messes. Having a clean-up kit handy just in case is good practice. Include wipes, paper towel, extra water, and an easily accessible change of clothes.
• Storage: To keep things organized, we usually use small stackable Rubbermaid containers to pack our non-perishables.

🚙 More Road Trip Ideas: 4 Day family friendly itinerary in Acadia National Park

Road Trip Essentials

Now that we’ve got the meals all planned out, and the best road trip SNACKS organized  let’s move on to the non-food items you’ll need to add to your road trip packing list. 

Reusable Items

Our goal is to reduce our impact on the earth whatever mode of travel. Bringing reusable items on our trips to cut down on waste is one simple way to do this. If you make it part of your routine, you will be pleasantly surprised how easy it becomes.

Here are some other reusable items to pack for your road trip:

• Plastic, glass or stainless steel containers – Can be used for leftovers, as dishes, hold snack packs, or even small toys, art supplies
• Cutlery – knives, forks, spoons, 
• Dishes – Cups, plates, bowls
• Coffee Mugs – Our favs are Yeti Mugs or the Klean Kanteen  
• Reusable Straws
• Water bottles for the kids
• Water bottles for the adults
• Cloth fruit bags 
• Bento Boxes
• Garbage bags – reuse grocery bags

Storage & Cleaning Supplies

• Reusable Ice Packs 
• Hand sanitizer
• Paper Towels & Wet Wipes 
• Biodegradable Soap

Travel Backpacks

You will definitely want to make sure you and your kids have their own travel backpack for the trip.

A good travel backpack can be multipurpose, for hiking, storing road trip activities and entertainment, plus give easy access to a couple of snacks, and a handy change of clothes.

There’s been numerous times my “safety first” approach & extra clothes has saved us on long trips. From puking children, to epic diaper blow outs, and unexpected spills, with kids it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Best Road Trip Coolers

Coolers provide more flexibility with the types of meals and snacks  you can bring on your trips. We think they are a road trip essential, without a doubt. Before choosing one, there are a few things to consider:

• How long is your trip?
• Which meals will you be packing from home?
• How often will you have access to a grocery store?
• How much space do you have in your vehicle? Where do you want to put the cooler?

Answers to these questions will give you an idea of the size and cooling ability needed from your cooler. We’ve put together a list of the best coolers to try, that are easily available on Amazon.

Best Overall Cooler – Yeti Roadi 24 Cooler

The Yeti Roadi 24 Cooler is narrow, so it easily fits behind the seat, is well insulated, which holds the cold, and is lighter than previous versions.

It can also be transformed into a stool if you buy the cushion. It’s a bit of an invesment, so a good buy if you are planning on using it a lot.

Best Afforable Family Cooler – Coleman 316

The Coleman 316 Cooler is a top pick for size, flexibility and price. It can hold a lot of food and ice, which can be kept cool at higher temps for 2-3 days.

Perfect for shorter trips, or if you plan on replenishing your food / ice every few days.

Best Soft Sided Cooler – TOURIT Leak-Proof Backpack

The Tourit Leak Proof soft-sided backpack is an excellent option for shorter road trips or if you are planning a picnic or day at the beach. This leak-proof high-density insulated backpack can keep food cold for up to 3 days. It also has side pockets for extra storage.

Tips to Prepare For Your Next Road Trip

Anything you can do the day or two beforehand to prep your food, and pack your non-perishables, do it. This will save rushing around at the last minute, and forgetting important things like your water bottles.

We recommend doing the following ahead of time:

• Make a Shopping list and meal plan.
• Check off the items as you pack them. 
• Wash and cut veggies and fruit
• Prepare sandwiches, meat slices, cheese slices
• Freeze meals and water bottles the night or two before
• Prepare the snack bags or snack tote 
• Prepare your Clean up kit
• Pack non-perishable foods in small totes or bags
• Pack your perishable foods in the cooler, & an airtight container, right before you leave.

PRO TIP: Pack your car the night before you leave, to make sure everything fits. Make sure your cooler and essential road trip snacks are easily accessible. 

Conclusion: Ultimate Easy Road Trip Meals & Snacks List

With over 100 delicious and easy road trip meal ideas, you will find a party in your cooler for all taste buds or your next long journey.

 Plus don’t forget that a little pre-trip planning can go a long way towards a stress free vacation.

Grab a great road trip snack or two and head on out on the open road. I hope this helps you have an epic road trip.

Related travel tips and destination articles:

• Easy ways to take a frugal road trip
• Epic RV Gift Ideas: Gifts RV Owners will love and use
• Epic Gifts for Beach Lovers – prep for your beach vacation
• Best Walkie Talkies For Road Trips
• Complete Road Trip Packing List For Families

Donna Garrison is the founder of Packed for Life, an ever curious traveler with a passion for making memories with her family. With a unique perspective on travelling on a budget gathered over 30 years, 20 countries and 5 continents she gives families the tools & resources they need to experience the joys of travelling more for less through practical solutions. She helps over 20,000 families a month plan & take the family travel, camping and road trip adventures of their dreams in Canada, the USA and around the world. Contact her at: Donna [at] packedforlife.com

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41 Things You Need for Your Next Road Trip

Hit the highway in comfort and style with these travel heroes.

Related To:

Before you hit the open road, make sure you have all the essentials you'll need for a stress-free trip. From comfortable good-to-haves (like pillows and blankets) to safety just-in-cases (like first aid and emergency kits), you'll be glad you traveled prepared. Whether you're hitting the road for a day or two weeks, make sure these easy-to-pack items are in tow.

ESSENTIAL GADGETS

Adjustable Car Cup Holder Expander

Long road trips require large water bottles, but many standard car cup holders aren't large enough to fit larger reusable water bottles from popular brands like YETI, Hydroflask, Stanley and more. This adjustable handy gadget from the brand Swigzy allows you to expand the size of your cup holder and works in almost any cup holder and can fit a variety of styles of bottles and mugs, including those with handles.

Phone Mount

Texting and driving is never an option. And in some states, just holding your phone to talk while driving is against the law. If you want to stream a Spotify playlist or run Google Maps, invest in a phone mount to ensure those hands remain at "10 and two."

Car Power Strip

Going on a long road trip with multiple passengers? You need this 200W power inverter that plugs into the cigarette lighter and has four USB ports and two standard plugs. Plus, it features full-protection with short-circuit, low-voltage, over-charge, over-voltage, over-load and over-temperature protection.

Tablet Headrest Mount

There won’t be a peep from the backseat with this tablet headrest mount. It adjusts to fit any size tablet and is compatible with nearly all headrests. The kids (or adults) in the back won’t be asking “are we there yet?” because they’ll be too absorbed in their movie or game.

Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot

This mobile hotspot features super-fast Wi-Fi internet speeds and long-lasting battery life, providing the ultimate internet experience from anywhere right when you need it most.

Flexible Phone Tripod

Roadside photo-ops will be a breeze with this handy mini tripod . This flexible tripod grips to any surface — from a tree to a fence — and has a reliable rubber grip that secures a smartphone.

Portable Phone Charger

You’ll probably bring several gadgets on your road trip, including smartphones, tablets and e-readers. So gather them up, then power them up. There’s nothing worse than getting an hour into an all-day trip and having the iPad in the backseat run out of juice. We suggest bringing one or more portable chargers for the car, and make sure they work with the devices you plan to charge. Despite what’s written on the packaging, not every charger will power up all the devices they claim they can charge.

Emergency Car Kit

Before you plan your road trip itinerary, you should pack your emergency roadside kit. It’s not the fun part of road trip planning, but it’s the most important. A good car kit should include, at the very least, jumper cables, a spare tire, signal flares and a flashlight. Emergency items such as spare socks, a blanket and granola bars are good, too.

Fire Starter

Building a fire just got a lot easier with this handy fire starter that produces sparks in any weather or altitude. It has an ergonomic thumb guard for comfort and an attached emergency whistle, in case you need to call for help.

First Aid Kit

Road trip or not, keeping a first aid kit in the car is always a good idea. This 100-piece kit includes essential wound care supplies, like cleansing wipes, gauze pads, assorted bandages, rolled gauze, antibiotic cream, itch-stopping cream, acetaminophen caplets, an instant cold pack and much more.

You can’t always depend on Google Maps, especially when driving in rural areas. Even popular National Parks and National Forests can have spotty cell service. As a backup, you can download maps to use offline from Google Maps, and tucking an actual map in the backseat pocket isn’t a bad idea either.

Travel Pillow

Never struggle to find a comfortable sleeping position in the car again with the Trtl Travel Pillow. This neck pillow combines hypoallergenic fleece with hidden internal neck support to hold your head and neck in the best position for sleeping, preventing stiff necks and sore shoulders.

Travel Throw

Meet the hardest-working travel throw in the business: Unpacked, it’s a 52-by-75-inch insulated comforter that's lightweight, washable and super cozy.

Travel Hammock

After hours of driving, take a break in this lightweight travel hammock. It’s quick to hang after a long day on the road and packs down into a small pouch for easy storage.

Microfiber Towel

Whether you're washing off at your campsite or at a rest stop, this soft, microfiber towel will dry quickly and can be used over and over during your trip.

Air Freshener

With all due respect to those mysterious rear-view mirror trees, when you plan on spending serious time on the highway, you need a substantial and sustainable air scrubber. The porous activated charcoal in this baby will purify the stale air in your car instead of hitting it with chemicals, and it'll combat the effects of left-behind takeout for up to a year.

Car Window Shades

Block out 97 percent of harmful UV rays on long road trips with window shades that easily attach to your car's windows, keeping backseat riders cool and comfortable the whole trip.

HEALTH + HYGIENE

Car Diffuser

Fill this diffuser with water, add essential oils and plug it in to make your car smell amazing. Featuring automatic shut-off, t he diffuser emits a cool mist that adds moisture to the air, which helps with dry skin, lips, sinuses and coughs.

Nausea-Relief Wristbands

Nip motion sickness in the bud with these acupressure wristbands that provide effective relief from all forms of travel sickness without causing drowsiness or other side effects. There are even Sea-Bands for kids that come in cool patterns and colors.

Foaming Hand Sanitizer

Keep everyone's hands clean with this alcohol-free foaming sanitizer that's safe and gentle enough for babies. We love Babyganics for the whole family because the formula kills 99.9 percent of common bacteria; it's made without parabens, sulfates, phthalates, artificial fragrances and dyes; and it's dermatologist-tested and non-allergenic.

Essential Oil Towelettes

This assortment of towelettes is a league of essential oil superheroes: Defeat gas-station bathroom germs, freshen up after the A/C kicks out in the middle of nowhere, combat carsickness and wind down at the end of a long day with their aid.

Tissue Holder

Spare yourself the stress and strain of blindly reaching into the backseat, and snag this seriously convenient tissue holder. The chic black case clips right onto your passenger-side visor, so you can reach it without taking your hands off the wheel.

Insect Repellent

Whether you're spending a little time outside or a lot of time outside, it's always smart to keep insect repellent nearby. This 100-percent DEET formula offers more than 10 hours of protection against insect-transmitted diseases, including Zika and West Nile viruses.

Sleeping away from the comforts of home can come with some restless nights. Melatonin helps you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer and wake up feeling refreshed. And since Natrol is a drug-free sleep aid, you won't wake up feeling groggy.

ORGANIZATION

Car Seat Headrest Hook

Free up seat space and foot room with these handy hooks that attach to the back of headrests. They'll keep purses, lunchboxes, backpacks and more out of the way but still easily accessible.

Car Ceiling Cargo Net Pocket

Out of space? This sleek cargo net adds more packable space to your car's ceiling. Use it to store pillows, blankets, food and more.

Car Trash Bin

Keep your car clean and organized with this hanging trash bin with a 1.85-gallon capacity and leak-proof interior bag.

Packable Daypack

You may not need it, but you'll be happy it's there if you do. This ultra-light packable daypack has a 25-liter capacity, multiple pockets and adjustable, breathable straps for comfortable all-day use. Plus, it can be stuffed into its own zippered pocket for space-saving storage and compact portability.

Laundry Bag

Truth be told, every trip calls for a laundry bag — hunting for clean undies is nobody’s idea of a good time. That said, a pre-sorted discard pile is especially important when you find a laundromat in the middle of nowhere and want to take care of business ASAP. Tuck one of these into your glove compartment and thank us later.

These Genius Items Will Keep Your Car Clean + Organized on Family Road Trips

A clean car? With kids ? Yes, it's possible.

FOOD + DRINK

Saucemoto Dip Clip

Never spill your sauce again! Sometimes, a drive-thru food stop is the highlight of a road trip after hours of driving. Keep your favorite sauce easily accessible and avoid spills with this handy sauce cady. It clips to the car air vent and creates the perfect spot to nest your dipping sauce.

YETI Cooler Bag

A cooler is a road trip must. Instead of a giant cooler out-of-reach in the trunk, keep your drinks in a small cooler bag. YETI’s Hopper Flip 8 is large enough for eight soda cans but small enough to throw around your arm for a pull-off picnic or impromptu hike.

Car Seat Organizer

For a more kid-friendly (and budget) option, this car seat cooler organizer would be the perfect backseat companion. It features an insulated cooler compartment, flat tray table top, two drink holders and side pockets for extra storage. It also features a handy seatbelt strap that holds it in place. The brand recommends using cold packs instead of ice for keeping items cold.

Reusable Water Bottle

Stay hydrated on the road with BPA-free Bobble Bottles that filter out impurities on the go, so you can fill up at the campground or rest stop water fountain worry-free. And with so many color options, no one will get their bottle mixed up in the car.

Portable Coffee Press

This portable brewer will brew a delicious cup of coffee, espresso or cold brew right over your mug. The total immersion brewing system means there's less grit than with a French press, and it's super-fast, too.

With double-wall vacuum insulation, the YETI Rambler 20-Ounce Travel Mug keeps hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold. Plus the leak-resistant lid means bumps in the road are no problem for this traveler.

Collapsible Storage Containers

Useful for storing everything from travel-size toiletries to trail mix, these reusable containers work for jet setters or families always on the go. Not only are they eco-friendly and BPA-free, but these collapsible beauties also help save money on snacks. Fill them up before road-tripping to prevent overspending on pre-packaged goodies at convenience stores.

Kitchen Utensil Set

When fast food isn't your speed, this one-and-done kit — which includes a serving fork, a utility knife, scissors, a cutting board, a spatula, a wine opener, tongs, a ladle, a rice paddle, a carabiner and folding stainless-steel utensils — is ready to turn your roadside-farm-stand haul into the greatest picnic of all time.

BioLite CampStove 2

The eco-friendly BioLite Campstove 2 is pure genius. It doesn’t need fuel, and the heat created from burning just a handful of kindling converts into usable electricity that can be used to recharge your gadgets. Cook dinner, charge your phone and feel good about your carbon footprint — what more could you ask for?

15 Must-Have Items for a Family Road Trip With Kids

Keep kids of all ages happy and entertained while on the road with these gadgets, games and more.

ENTERTAINMENT

Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Go on and celebrate reaching your destination with an impromptu dance party. This lightweight Bluetooth speaker fills your space with home-stereo-system-quality sound and claims less real estate in your luggage than a rolled-up pair of jeans.

Scrabble To-Go Board Game

Add some friendly competition in the car or at your destination with this compact Scrabble set. The snap-in letter board ensures tiles stay put while moving, and the zippered case makes it easy to fold up and keep everything in place mid-game.

Kindle Paperwhite

Cut down your packing weight by bringing a Kindle instead of a stack of books for lounging by the fire. The latest generation of Paperwhite Kindles are now hot tub-ready, too; they're waterproof, so they'll survive an accidental dunk.

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6 Essential Road Trip Gadgets

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20 East Coast Road Trips (with Maps & 1-Week Itineraries)

The family road trip has made a comeback and with it, families are looking for even more road trip ideas. While plenty of East Coasters have made the road trip down 95 to Florida over the years, now families want to take time to stop and explore along the way. With so much to see, we have divided this part of the country up into 20 different East Coast road trips, each of which could be done in a one-week vacation.

Each of these mini East Coast road trip itineraries will give you ideas for new ways to explore sections of the East Coast of the U.S.A. Check off one at a time or string a few together for a longer vacation.

Not sure where to start? Here are my top picks:

• Best for nature fans: White & Green Mountains in NH and VT
• Best for history buffs : Colonial History Philadelphia to Williamsburg
• Best for beach lovers: Coastal Islands: Wilmington NC to Jacksonville FL
• Best for national park stampers: Blue Ridge Mountains
• Best for theme park fans: Daytona to Tampa
• Best iconic views: Florida Keys road trip

20 East Coast Road Trips

Each of these East Coast road trip ideas should take approximately 7 to 10 days to complete as outlined. My goal is to only require one week of vacation time from work, since that is the typical family vacation. I’ve linked to some more detailed road trip itineraries and included maps to give you an overview of the route.

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. All opinions are my own.

New England Coast: Boston to Bar Harbor, ME

The drive from Boston, Massachusetts up to Bar Harbor, Maine can be done in about four hours on the highway, but it is better to take the scenic route and explore Vacationland’s scenic coast along the way. One of the best East Coast road trips, this one is full of Maine foods like lobster rolls, blueberry soda, and whoopie pies; as well as lighthouses, rocky coasts, quaint small towns, and Acadia National Park .

Portland: spend 2 nights in Portland exploring the Old Port, maybe taking a lobster boat tour, climbing on the rocks by Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth, or spending a day shopping at the L.L. Bean outlet up in Freeport. You could also visit some local breweries or take a day trip to Maine Wildlife Park in Gray to see some moose.

Where to stay: The Press Hotel , Inn by the Sea , or the Courtyard Marriott Waterfront

Boothbay Harbor: spend 1-2 nights in Boothbay Harbor . On your way, stop and enjoy the coastal towns, Giant’s Stairs in Harpswell, spend an afternoon soaking up the sun on Popham Beach, a rare sandy stretch of sand, and be sure to line up for lobster rolls at Red Eats.

The next day, get out on the water with one of Boothbay Harbor’s many sightseeing cruises to see puffins or whales, or rent a sea kayak to explore Muscongus Bay. Leave time to browse at the many boutiques in town.

Where to stay: Tugboat Inn , Fisherman’s Wharf Inn

Rockland: spend 1 night enjoying the artistic town of Rockland . Pop into the Center for Maine Contemporary Art or the Farnsworth Art Museum. If the outdoors holds more appeal, hop aboard a traditional Maine Windjammer for a short sail, walk along the Rockland Breakwater, or explore the trails at Camden Hills State Park. This arts city of Maine is such a delightful surprise!

Where to stay: 250 Main Hotel

Bar Harbor: finish up your road trip at the scenic town of Bar Harbor, just outside of Acadia National Park . You will want to spend 2 to 3 nights exploring the park. Try to catch a sunrise or sunset from the top of Cadillac Mountain, drive the Park Loop Road, relax on Sand Beach, stop to see the natural phenomenon at Thunder Hole, take in the view from Otter Cliffs, bike the Carriage Roads, and check out some of the popular hikes. Don’t forget to enjoy an authentic lobster pound before you take the fast route back to Portland. (See more things to do near Acadia National Park .)

Where to stay: Bar Harbor Grand Hotel , Hampton by Hilton Bar Harbor , or go glamping at the Terramor Outdoor Resort

Read more: Check out my full coastal Maine road trip itinerary

White & Green Mountains: Boston, MA to Burlington, VT

The drive from Boston to Burlington takes only about 4 hours, but use this New England road trip to spend time enjoying the beautiful scenery of the White Mountains of New Hampshire and the Green Mountains of Vermont along the way, especially during fall foliage season.

Boston: if you haven’t been to Boston , plan on spending 2 nights enjoying this historic city. Don’t miss the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum , walk the Freedom Trail, enjoy a swan boat tour in Boston’s Public Garden, and taste your way through Boston’s Little Italy in the North End.

Where to stay: Fairmont Copley Plaza , Boston Harbor Hotel

Lincoln, NH: Lincoln can make a nice home base for 1-2 nights of exploring the White Mountains . Hike through the Flume Gorge, zip line, or hike at Loon Mountain, ride the Mount Washington Cog Railway, or drive the Mount Washington Auto Road. There are also plenty of hikes to try, rock climbing, a scenic drive on the Kancamagus Highway , and splashing in the waterfalls at Diana’s Baths.

Where to stay: Riverwalk Resort at Loon Mountain , Lumen Nature Retreat , Alpine Garden Glamping , or Huttopia

Stowe, VT: spend a couple of nights enjoying the Green Mountains from a home base in Stowe. On your drive from New Hampshire, you may want to stop at the Cabot cheese factory, Ben & Jerry’s Factory, and the Cold Hollow Cider Mill. In Stowe, you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and other resort activities.

Where to stay: TopNotch Resort , Stowe Mountain Resort

Burlington, VT: Finish your road trip with a night in the hip waterfront city of Burlington. There are so many things to do in Burlington, VT and you can check out nearby Shelburne Farm, and the ECHO museum. Or if you prefer lake life, finish with a few days on Lake Champlain at the Basin Harbor Hotel .

On your drive back to Boston, be sure to stop and stroll through the charming downtown of Woodstock.

Where to stay: Hotel Vermont , Courtyard Burlington Harbor

Read more: Vermont Route 100 road trip stops , things to do in the White Mountains

Southern New England COast: New York, NY to Provincetown, MA

You should be able to make the trip from New York to Provincetown at the tip of Cape Cod in 5 to 6 hours, but the traffic can be horrendous on summer weekends so try to travel midweek for this east coast road trip if you can.

Mystic, CT: Break up the trip with a night in Mystic. You will want to visit the historic Mystic Seaport, stroll through downtown, and maybe stop in at the Mystic Aquarium. You will find plenty of things to do in Mystic with kids.

Where to stay: Mystic KOA , Inn at Mystic

Newport, RI: spend a night in the yachting capital of the world . You can walk the Cliff Walk, fly a kite at Brenton Point State Park, visit some of the Newport Mansions, shop along Thames, and take a sail in the harbor.

Where to stay: Newport Marriott , The Vanderbilt

Providence, RI: instead of skipping over Rhode Island’s Creative Capital, spend a night to discover this little gem. Take a Rhode Island food tour, visit the RISD Museum, take a gondola or river boat ride, bike along the East Bay bike path, and, if you are lucky, take in Providence’s famous Waterfire .

Where to stay: The Graduate Providence , Aloft Providence Downtown

Falmouth, MA: stay the next 2 nights on the elbow of Cape Cod in Falmouth. Take time to relax on the beach and then hop the ferry over to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket for a day. You can also ride the Cape Cod bike trail or visit the Woods Hole Science Aquarium.

Where to stay: Sea Crest Beach Hotel or Autocamp Cape Cod

Provincetown, MA: finish your road trip with a couple of nights in the unique and vibrant town of Provincetown. You can shop, dine, take a tour of the sand dunes , go on a whale-watching tour, climb the lighthouse, or visit the Pirate Museum. The best part is searching the tide pools at low tide and watching the sunset.

Where to stay: Surfside Hotel & Suites

Read more: New York to Boston road trip itinerary, things to do in Providence

New York to Niagara Falls, NY

The drive from New York City to Niagara Falls can take 6 to 7 hours, but turn it into a road trip with a few days in the Finger Lakes region on the way and plenty of stops along the Western New York Upstate Eats Trail .

Watkins Glen: spend 2 nights in Watkins Glen, at the southern point of Seneca Lake. For fans of The Office, you may want to stop in Scranton, PA on your way for a self-driving tour of filming spots. Enjoy time on the lake, hike to the waterfalls in Watkins Glen State Park, or take a glider ride in Elmira, the Soaring Capital of the World.

Where to stay: Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel

Hammondsport: move over to Keuka Lake and spend a couple of nights in Hammondsport. You can enjoy water sports, wine tasting, and a day at the fascinating Corning Museum of Glass.

Where to stay: Keuka Lakeside Inn

Niagara Falls: you will want to spend 2 to 3 nights in Niagara to explore all the attractions including the Cave of the Winds, Maid of the Mist, Old Fort Niagara, jet boat tours, and hiking trails in Niagara Falls State Park.

Where to stay: Sheraton Niagara Falls , Hyatt Place Niagara Falls

Buffalo: on your return to New York, stop in for some food, history, and fun in Buffalo . This city is going through a renaissance and plenty of fun activities along the waterfront (in summer or winter). Make sure you try some of these must-eat foods in Buffalo too!

Where to stay: Buffalo Marriott LECOM Harborcenter

Cooperstown: on your return trip, be sure to stop in Seneca Falls and visit the Women’s Rights National Historical Park and the National Women’s Hall of Fame. Then spend a night in Cooperstown and visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

Where to stay: Otesaga Resort , Inn at Cooperstown

Read more: Things to do in Hammondsport, NY , New York road trips

PA Pitstops: Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, PA

Driving from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh takes about five hours, but going straight through means you will miss out on some many historic, scenic, and family-fun spots along the way.

Lancaster: start your trip with a night in Lancaster’s Pennsylvania Dutch Country. You will want to take a buggy ride, indulge at an Amish feast, or take in some of the historic sites. You can also take a tour of the Turkey Hill Ice Cream Experience.

Where to stay: Residence Inn by Marriott Lancaster

Hershey: next stop is the sweetest place on earth, Hershey . You can spend the day at Hersheypark, visit Hershey’s Chocolate World, or the Hershey Experience. History buffs will enjoy the National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg, a good introduction before you head to Gettysburg.

Where to stay: Hershey Lodge

Gettysburg: next up is the historic town of Gettysburg . I would highly recommend a guided tour of the Battlefield, but there are many other things to do in town as well.

Where to stay: Hilton Garden Inn Gettysburg , Gettysburg Hotel

Laurel Highlands: the Laurel Highlands is a scenic mountainous region east of Pittsburgh offering spectacular natural scenery and outdoor recreation. You will want to spend 2 days rafting down the Ohiopyle, climbing through Pennsylvania’s largest cave at Laurel Caverns, and enjoying mountain resort activities including zip lining, rock climbing, summer tubing, and more.

Where to stay: Nemacolin Woodlands Resort

Pittsburgh: you can fit a lot into 1 day in Pittsburgh , but spend 2 nights if you can spare it. See the view from Mount Washington from the Duquesne Incline, visit the Heinz History Center, explore the Carnegie Science Center, and don’t miss the Tribute to Children statue of Fred Rogers near the Allegheny River. There is also the Carnegie Museum of Art, Carnegie Museum of Natural History, and the Andy Warhol Museum. And if the Pirates are in town, try to catch a baseball game.

Where to stay: Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh , Omni William Penn Hotel

COlonial History: Philadelphia, PA to Williamsburg, VA

The drive from Philadelphia to Williamsburg takes about five hours but why not turn it into a learning experience with an American history road trip?

Valley Forge, PA: if you have already explored the historical sites of Philadelphia like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, you may want to venture out of the city for a visit to the Valley Forge National Historical Park .

Baltimore, MD: spend 2 nights in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, where you can easily visit Fort McHenry, visit the National Aquarium, stroll through the cobblestone streets of Fells Point, and enjoy the other Inner Harbor attractions.

Where to stay: Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor , Pier 5 Hotel Baltimore

Washington D.C.: you will want to spend at least 2 to 3 days exploring the nation’s capital. There are so many museums and monuments to explore, you may want to use our DC itinerary. Just remember if you want to visit the White House, you will need to make reservations in advance.

Where to stay: Embassy Suites by Hilton Washington DC Georgetown

Williamsburg, VA : finish your road trip in Colonial Williamsburg. You will need 2 to 3 days to enjoy the sites, including a full day in Colonial Williamsburg , a visit to Historic Jamestowne and Yorktown, and Busch Gardens or Water Country USA .

Where to stay: Kingsmill Resort , Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg

Read more: Northeast road trip for history lovers

Mid-atlantic Gems: Cape May, NJ to Chincoteague, VA

If you want to stick to the Mid-Atlantic coast, this road trip will bring you through cute Victorian towns, beautiful beaches, and nature preserves.

Cape May, NJ: start off your journey in Cape May. This quaint town isn’t like the rest of the Jersey Shore. Enjoy the gourmet restaurants, charming boutiques, and gingerbread-style Victorian homes.

Where to stay : Congress Hall

Lewes, DE: take the ferry across to Lewes, Delaware, another Victorian town full of history, cute cafes, and shops. You must stay a night so that you can take a sunset cruise past the lighthouse and if you get lucky, you may see some dolphins on the way.

Where to stay : Inn at Canal Square

Bethany Beach, DE: as you continue down to the beaches of Southern Delaware, you may also want to stop and check out some of the local breweries and wineries in this region. If you are seeking a boardwalk, combined with bike trails, and great restaurants, you may prefer Rehoboth Beach . Dewey Beach is full of seaside hotels and beach bars, along with gorgeous state beaches. But if you are seeking quiet for a few days at the beach, I would recommend Bethany Beach.

Where to stay: Bethany Beach Ocean Suites Residence Inn by Marriott

Chincoteague, VA: on your way to Assateague Island National Seashore to see the wild ponies , stop in the cute small town of Berlin, MD or for a stroll on the Ocean City boardwalk. To get up close to the wild horses, I would recommend taking a boat tour with Captain Dan from Chincoteague. Afterward, get some marsh mud ice cream at Island Creamery.

Where to stay: Hampton Inn and Suites Chincoteague Waterfront

Eastern Shore: Baltimore, MD to Virginia Beach, VA

Swing through Maryland and Virginia’s Eastern Shore on your way down to Virginia Beach. You can then take the highway back to Baltimore, with a stop in Norfolk or Williamsburg on your return trip.

Annapolis, MD: start off with a night in Annapolis. Spend the day exploring some of Annapolis’ historic sites, including the State House and the U.S. Naval Academy, as well as the boutiques and galleries downtown. Don’t leave town without enjoying some crab cakes!

Where to stay: Graduate Annapolis

St. Michaels, MD: spend a night enjoying the Chesapeake side of the Eastern Shore. The charming town of St. Michaels offers up plenty of retail therapy options, but also cultural attractions like the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. Nearby you can go tasting at local wineries and breweries, or get out on the water with a kayak or paddle board.

Where to stay: St. Michaels Harbour Inn

Chincoteague, VA : the kids will then enjoy a night on the other side of the peninsula, finding the wild ponies at Chincoteague or exploring the Assateague National Seashore. Be sure to stop for ice cream at the Island Creamery!

Virginia Beach, VA: there are so many things to do in Virginia Beach that you will want to spend a few days enjoying the wide sand beaches and exploring. Also, check out my friend Brianna’s guide to where to eat in Virginia Beach . If you want to take a day trip, pop over to Hampton to explore some early history or visit the Virginia Air and Space Museum.

Where to stay: Hilton Garden Inn Virginia Beach Oceanfront

Wi lliamsburg, VA: finish your road trip in Colonial Williamsburg. Plan on a full day in Colonial Williamsburg , and if you have more time, include a visit to Historic Jamestowne and Yorktown, Busch Gardens, or Water Country USA .

Skyline Drive: Washington DC to Charlottesville, VA

This road trip will bring you through Shenandoah National Park for a mix of outdoor adventures and historic landmarks. We covered this ground during part of a more extensive Virginia road trip a few years back.

Woodstock, VA : spend 2 nights in Woodstock, exploring nearby Shenandoah Caverns, climbing the Woodstock Tower, tubing on the Shenandoah River, enjoying summer sports at Bryce Resort, and hiking in Shenandoah National Park.

Where to stay: Hampton Inn & Suites Woodstock

Harrisonburg, VA: spend the day exploring Shenandoah National Park and driving the Skyline Drive before arriving in Harrisonburg for the night. This is a great road trip for a college tour because James Madison University is also located here. Be sure to also stop at Kline’s Dairy Bar for its famous custard-style ice cream.

Where to stay: Residence Inn Harrisonburg

Charlottesville, VA: plan on spending 2 nights in Charlottesville . Stroll and shop downtown and then enjoy a traditional, Colonial-style luncheon at the historic Michie Tavern, followed by a visit to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello estate.

In the evening, head up to Carter Mountain Orchard to catch a sunset and some live music. On your second day, you can either explore more history at President James Monroe’s home, do some local wine tasting, tour the campus of the University of Virginia, or kayak along the James River.

Where to stay: Graduate Charlottesville

Richmond, VA: finish up your road trip with a couple of days in Richmond . While it was once the capital of the Confederate South, today the state capital is finding a new identity with plenty of street art, craft beer, and fun dining options. You may want to check out the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, or the Institute of Contemporary Art before heading back to DC.

Where to stay: Graduate Richmond

Carolina Coast: Washington DC to Wilmington, NC

If you are ready to escape the city for the coast, it is time for a road trip down to Wilmington , North Carolina and Wrightsville Beach. The six-hour drive is long but then there is plenty to do on the Carolina coast once you arrive and this road trip gives you a chance to figure out your favorite beach.

Emerald Isle, NC: Emerald Isle is on North Carolina’s Crystal Coast, or the “southern” Outer Banks. This area attracts visitors who have returned for decades for the simple beach pleasures of a family vacation. Emerald Isle offers 12 miles of pristine shoreline and incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean and Bogue Inlet. Spend a few days enjoying watersports, fishing, or simply sitting on the sand and enjoying the sound of the waves rolling in.

Where to stay: Inn at Pine Knoll Shores , Islander Hotel & Resort

Surf City, NC: stay a couple of days in Surf City, the center of Topsail Island. The relaxing and uncrowded beaches are what some call “the way the beach used to be.” You can also enjoy kayaking, fishing, and boating on the Intercoastal.

Wrightsville Beach, NC: once you have arrived in Wrightsville Beach set up your home base for the next few days to explore. You will want to spend some time in the historic downtown of Wilmington, take a food tour in Kure Beach, stroll the grounds of Airlie Gardens, take a hike in Carolina State Park, or enjoy some beach time. Don’t miss a stop at Britt’s Donuts — the best on the east coast!

Where to stay : Blockade Runner Beach Resort

Low Country: Raleigh, NC to Savannah, GA

You can make the drive from Raleigh to Savannah in about five hours, but it pays to take the coastal route and make some stops along the way.

Myrtle Beach, SC : how long you spend in Myrtle Beach depends on the vibe of a beach town that you enjoy. If you enjoy a boardwalk, arcades, family attractions, and plenty of kitsch — then you will enjoy a classic family vacation to Myrtle Beach. But you can also get away from the crowds by kayaking through the salt marshes, strolling through Brookgreen Gardens, or paddle boarding.

Where to stay: Island Vista

Charleston, SC: for a complete change of pace, spend a night or two in the historic city of Charleston. Start off with a carriage tour through the downtown, visit some of the historic homes and gardens, and discover why Charleston is a foodie destination.

Where to stay: The Mills House Wyndham Grand

Beaufort, SC: spend a day exploring Beaufort, the upcoming-and-coming “next” Charleston or Savannah. Explore its antebellum mansions and downtown historic district. You can also enjoy the low country marshlands and waterways.

Where to stay: Anchorage 1770 Inn

Savannah, GA: finish up this east coast road trip in Savannah. Wander through the city’s many squares lined with oaks dripping in Spanish moss in Savannah’s historic district . Check out the Prohibition Museum, and then enjoy Savannah’s vibrant dining and craft cocktail scene. Stroll down touristy river street, take a ghost tour, visit some of the historic homes, or spend a day out on the beach at Tybee Island. See my friend Rob’s (who has an Airbnb there) favorite things to do in Savannah and my friend Karen has great suggestions on the best family restaurants in Savannah .

Where to stay: Perry Lane Hotel

Blue Ridge Mountains: Charlotte, NC to Gatlinburg, TN

If lakes and mountains are calling you, head towards the Blue Ridge Mountains and Great Smoky Mountains National Park — with a few stops along the way.

Lake Lure, NC: the backdrop to Dirty Dancing, Lake Lure is a favorite family vacation destination. You will need a couple of days to explore Lake Lure Flowering Bridge, Chimney Rock State Park, and Chimney Rock Village which has plenty of shops and dining options, along with a scenic riverwalk next to the creek that kids will enjoy playing in on a warm sunny day. Plus you have to leave time to enjoy the lake, by boat or beach.

Where to stay: Lake Lure Inn & Spa

Asheville, NC: located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville has many fun things to do with kids . Take the Blue Ridge Highway to Sliding Rock, Looking Glass Falls, and other hiking trails. Swing from the treetops at the Adventure Center of Asheville, play some games at the Asheville Pinball Museum, visit the Biltmore Estate , one of the most popular things to do in North Carolina , or sample some local craft brews. If you have more time to road trip, be sure to explore these Blue Ridge Parkway stops .

Where to stay: Aloft Asheville Downtown

Gatlinburg, NC: use Gatlinburg as your base for exploring parts of Great Smoky Mountains National Park (don’t miss Cades Cove Loop ) and Pigeon Forge as well. You can go hiking, bike through the park, spend a day at Dollywood, go zip lining, see the view from Clingmans Dome, go horseback riding, or see a show.

Where to stay: Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg

Coastal Islands: Wilmington, NC to Jacksonville, FL

Another coastal road trip, this one bypasses the cities in favor of luxury beach destinations and brings you from Wilmington, NC all the way down to Jacksonville, Florida. A 6.5-hour drive by highway, you can spend a week or more exploring the coast. This trip brings you to some of the best beaches in the USA .

Kiawah Island: start off your road trip in luxury at the Kiawah Resort. This private residential island and resort is famous for its acclaimed golf course, but families can also enjoy 5-Star accommodations and 10 miles of private sandy shoreline.

Where to stay: The Sanctuary Hotel at Kiawah Island Resort

Hilton Head Island: spend a couple of days enjoying the beaches of Hilton Head Island. You can also golf, take a guided dolphin or kayak tour, or enjoy some low-country cuisine. You won’t find tacky souvenir shops or neon signs. HHI has a quieter, more relaxed way of life.

Where to stay: Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort

Amelia Island: finish this luxe road trip at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. Relax and enjoy the resort, search for shark teeth, star gaze from the beach, go shopping in downtown Fernandina Beach, take a kayaking tour, or hop a ferry for a day trip to Cumberland Island to see the wild horses.

Where to stay: The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island

Civil Rights Trail: Atlanta, GA to Memphis, TN

It is a six-hour drive from Atlanta to Memphis, and I recommend turning it into a Civil Rights road trip .

Atlanta: starting off in Atlanta , if you haven’t already visited I would recommend spending a couple of days visiting some of the important Civil Rights sites including the Center for Civil and Human Rights and the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site. Another fun way of exploring some history is through a food tour with Atlanta Food Walks.

Where to stay: Loews Atlanta Hotel

Montgomery, AL: plan on spending a full day in Montgomery visiting the Rosa Parks Museum, the Freedom Rides Museum, and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, which honors victims of lynchings. On your way to Birmingham, you can make a detour to Selma to walk across the Edmund Pettus Bridge and visit other Civil Rights sites.

Where to stay : Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa

Birmingham, AL: if you stop in Selma, you may want to plan on spending 2 nights in Birmingham so you don’t have to rush. Be sure to visit the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Kelly Ingram Park, and the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church. Take some time to enjoy Birmingham’s up-and-coming neighborhoods and food scene too.

Where to stay: Westin Birmingham

Memphis, TN: it is easy to spend at least 3 days in Memphis , more if you want to do a day trip to Graceland. You will need a half-day to take in the sobering exhibits at the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel (the place where MLK Jr. was assassinated.) Also visit Slave Haven, Sun Studios and STAX Museum of American Soul Museum. Just leave time to enjoy some great BBQ and soul food .

Where to stay: The Peabody Memphis

Read more: Plan a civil rights road trip

Golden Isles: Savannah, GA to St. Augustine, FL

This coastal road trip from Savannah to St. Augustine, Florida stops at many of Georgia’s Islands along the way.

Little St. Simons Island: spend a few days on this private island nature preserve with just 32 other guests and 7 miles of pristine beach to explore. Take advantage of twice-daily naturalist-led expeditions, kayak through the marshes to go bird watching, bike to the beach, or track some of the property’s resident armadillos.

Where to stay: Little St. Simons Resort

Jekyll Island: plan on spending at least 2-3 days on Jekyll Island, another of Georgia’s Golden Isles. You will want to visit Driftwood Beach, check out the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, picnic at South Dunes Beach Park, relax on one of the many Jekyll Island beaches or even enjoy a day at the waterpark.

Where to stay: Jekyll Island Club Resort

St. Augustine, FL: finish your road trip with a visit to historic St. Augustine — the country’s oldest continuously occupied city. You can stay on the beach or in town but be sure to check out both. You can visit the Fountain of Youth, walk the ramparts at Castillo St. Marcos, take a trolley tour, take a food tour to discover some of the town’s best places to eat , take a ghost tour, climb a lighthouse, or explore these other fun things to do with kids .

Where to stay: Embassy Suites St. Augustine Beach

Florida Coast: St. Augustine to Miami, FL

Driving the east coast of Florida from Jacksonville to Miami can be done in five hours, but why miss all the great beaches, history, and fun attractions on the way?

Jacksonville / St. Augustine: you can fly into Jacksonville or start off in St. Augustine. In addition to all the historic town of St. Augustine has to offer (see above), Jacksonville offers plenty for kids too with the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, Museum of Science and History, Sweet Pete’s Candy Shop, TopGolf, and more.

Where to stay: The Lodge & Club at Ponte Vedra Beach

Cocoa Beach, FL: spend 2 to 3 days enjoying the area near Cocoa Beach, including a full day at Kennedy Space Center . You can also kayak past the giraffes at nearby Brevard Zoo in nearby Melbourne or learn to surf at Cocoa Beach, the East Coast surf capital.

Where to stay: Hampton Inn Cocoa Beach

Hollywood, FL: next you can stay a couple of nights in Hollywood, between Fort Lauderdale and Miami. Enjoy strolling along the Hollywood Beach Boardwalk, ArtsPark at Young Circle, the Art and Culture Center of Hollywood, and the Anne Kolb Nature Center, with mangrove trails and an aquarium.

Where to stay: Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort

Miami, FL: if you have had enough beach time, you can focus on Miami’s neighborhoods and cultural attractions including Wynwood Walls, Little Haiti, Little Havana, and the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Even plan a day trip to the Everglades for an alligator airboat tour! Of course, you can’t leave town without at least checking out Miami Beach.

Where to stay: Eden Roc Beach Hotel or The Diplomat Beach Resort

Florida Keys: Miami to Key West, FL

Driving from Miami to Key West is a classic American road trip. The trip can take a good five hours, but you need to leave plenty of time depending on traffic. It gives you the time to get into “island mode.”

Key Largo: it is best to break up the trip by staying a few days in the upper keys, since every key has its own personality. From here you can explore most of what Key Largo and Islamorada have to offer including John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, snorkeling or other watersports at Robbie’s, or glass-bottom boat tours of the Key Largo National Marine Sanctuary.

Where to stay: Baker’s Cay Resort

Duck Key: Hawk’s Cay at Duck Key is a great spot for families to stop and relax for a few days, enjoying all the activities on this family-friendly resort.

Where to stay: Hawks Cay Resort

Key West: on your way to Key West , you will want to stop at the Turtle Hospital in Marathon and Bahia Honda State Park. Once in town, don’t miss out on the famous Sunset Celebration. You may also want to take a snorkel cruise or sunset catamaran. You can explore Key West’s vibrant food scene with a food tour — plus find out where to get the best Key Lime pie . Don’t forget to take a picture at the Southernmost Point.

Where to stay : Margaritaville Key West

Read more: Plan a Florida Keys road trip

Southwest Florida: Miami to Tampa, FL

Cross Alligator Alley from Miami to Southwest Florida to explore the beauty of the Paradise Coast. Each town has its own personality so you will want to do a little beach hopping on your way up Florida’s Gulf Coast .

Marco Island: the wide, white sand beaches of Marco Island will entice you to stay for a few days. On the way, you should stop at Everglades National Park and take one of the many airboat tours available. You may also enjoy a dolphin watch tour, kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, parasailing, and even jet skiing. A nature walk in Big Cypress Nature Preserve will introduce you to the area’s plant and wildlife.

Where to stay: JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort

Captiva Island: shelling fans will find their paradise on Sanibel and Captiva Islands. With much of the islands kept as a nature preserve, you are bound to spot dolphins, manatees, and abundant birdlife.

Where to stay: Seven Seas Island Resort

Clearwater Beach: just west of Tampa, the sugar-soft white sand of Clearwater has long been recognized as one of the best beaches in the U.S. In addition to beach time and water sports, families enjoy visiting the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. You can also explore the cultural attractions and family attractions of Tampa, including Busch Gardens, ZooTampa, the Museum of Science and Industry, and more.

Where to stay: Hyatt Regency Clearwater

Central Florida: Daytona to Clearwater, FL

The shortest road trip may be across Florida from Daytona Beach to Clearwater. Yet there is so much to do in Orlando and Central Florida that you can easily spend a week or more getting the best of all worlds from the beach to the theme park.

Orlando: before leaving Daytona Beach, make sure you spend a day at the Kennedy Space Center , especially if you are lucky enough to be around to launch day. Of course in Orlando you can spend weeks in Disney , Universal , Legoland , and SeaWorld, plus all the water parks like Volcano Bay and H2O Live. But there are so many off-the-beaten-path Orlando attractions too from kayaking through the wetlands to visiting nearby natural springs.

Where to stay: Margaritaville Orlando

Clearwater Beach: before arriving in Clearwater Beach , you may want to hit up some of the attractions in Tampa, like Busch Gardens or ZooTampa. Then take time to relax on the sugar-soft white sand beaches of Clearwater. Take a pirate cruise, enjoy movies in the park, and visit Winter the Dolphin (famous from the movie A Dolphin’s Tale) and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.

Where to stay: Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach

Panhandle: Orlando, FL to Orange Beach, AL

When you are ready to escape Central Florida for the gorgeous beaches of the Panhandle, head north on this Florida road trip.

Tallahassee: the drive from Orlando to Tallahassee takes about 4 hours, but there are plenty of natural springs, like Crystal River or Rainbow Springs, to stop at along the way. Or, turn it into a college trip and visit the University of Florida in Gainesville. In Tallahassee, you will find trees lined with trees dripping in moss instead of the palm trees of South Florida. Kids will also enjoy the Tallahassee Museum, Challenger Learning Center, Mission San Luis, and the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab.

Where to stay: aLoft Tallahassee Downtown

Destin: get ready for a few days of beach life in Destin on the Panhandle’s Emerald Coast. There are a ton of things to do with kids including the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, Indian Mound Museum, Big Kahuna’s water park, banana boat rides, parasailing, and more.

Where to stay: Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort

Orange Beach, AL: one of our favorite beaches, you can compare the Florida versus Alabama Gulf coast experience. In addition to relaxing on the sugar-soft sands of Gulf Shores or Orange Beach, there is so much else to do from biking in Gulf State Park, zip lining at The Wharf, sunset cruises with Sail Wildhearts, dolphin cruises, and of course, chowing down on amazing food !

Where to stay: Turquoise Place

Time to grab your road trip essentials and hit the road! If you don’t find what you are looking for, you can also take a New York to Florida road trip .

I hope this East Coast road trip planner was helpful. If you still need more inspiration, see more East Coast vacation ideas or things to do in New England .

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Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: November 19, 2023

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25 Easy Make-Ahead Road Trip Meal Ideas they’ll love!

Planning a road trip? Looking for easy, make-ahead meal ideas, whether for a weekend break or a longer trip? Or maybe you want some easy recipes for meals on the road? Here are 25 great ideas for you!

*We work hard to make this the best motorhome travel blog and road trip website possible, full of helpful content for you. The website is supported by our readers, so if you buy through links on this site we may earn a commission- at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain our own .

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Easy Make-Ahead Road Trip Meals

I’ll be honest- planning meals for a road trip is one of the things I dislike most.

Don’t get me wrong- I like cooking and I DEFINITELY like eating … but I am not good at creating a meal plan.

I also have a daughter who has gone from eating whatever we give her to being more and more particular about what she likes- and she’d rather not eat at all than eat something she doesn’t love. At home, it’s pretty easy to cook separate meals, but in the van, it becomes a whole different issue- and it makes the process of meal planning a lot harder.

Why plan meals on a road trip at all??

Oh, I hear you. In an ideal world, we’d just head off into the unknown and see what we find. One of the things we enjoy most about travelling is sampling local foods and dishes and enjoying discovering new things.

Both Mr WB and myself are fairly easy to please and can make do with all sorts, but anyone with kids knows that it’s just not that easy. I also don’t want to spend my time on the road worrying about whether she’ll eat anything- so it makes MY life easier if I plan it out a little in advance.

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Road Trip Meal Planning

So, where do you even start with planning meals for a road trip??

For me, I break it down into 2/3 day intervals. Generally, we like to pop into a shop and buy fresh bread, fruit and other bits every 2/3 days. We don’t do MASSIVE week long shops when we travel- our fridge is nowhere near big enough to deal with that and there’s the worry about what happens if you lose power or gas? All that food will go to waste.

Of course, if you’re only going to a weekend, you can easily make-ahead several dishes and just heat them up- much easier.

TOP TIP for picky eaters- Make them choose some meals

One way I tackle our favourite picky eater is to get her to pick 5-7 dinners she will eat. (Annoyingly, this seems to change every week or so!) I also make her come shopping with me- I find if she chooses it, there’s a higher chance she’ll eat it.

While we’re on the subject of kids, here are some posts you might find useful:

• 21 EPIC Children’s car games & road trip activities
• 14 quiet time activities for kids, tweens and teenagers

Our Normal Road Trip Food shopping method

On a ‘normal’ two-week road trip to mainland Europe, this is my tried and trusted routine:

• Buy stuff in UK which we struggle to get overseas (see below)
• Make-ahead meals for first night or two
• Buy things as you travel (at local markets, supermarkets or Lidl)
• Do this every couple of days so we can buy fresh bread, fruit and croissants! Yum!!
• Try to ignore jeans not doing up….!! 
• Remember that people eat EVERYWHERE and try not to overbuy before you leave the UK.

This system has worked fairly well for us. It’s allowed us to discover new things, let Jade choose what she fancies and my stress levels don’t get too high trying to plan out a whole weeks worth of meals.

What about perishable foods?

We have a fridge which works both whilst we’re driving (battery) and when we’re parked up (gas). So we bring a small amount of perishable food with us- milk, cheese, ham, meat, yogurt, fruit, bacon.

We don’t buy too much in case there is a problem and the fridge breaks- it’s always been a little tempermental and is the part of the motorhome I trust the least!!

Easy Road Trip Recipes

When I’m on a road trip, especially if it’s a holiday, I don’t want to spend hours of my time in the galley, prepping, washing, chopping, cooking and washing up!

Here are a few easy recipes we use and love. Most only use one pot and many can be made in advance if you prefer.

5 easy road trip Breakfast ideas

• Greek Yogurt and fresh fruit
• Muesli/ cereal
• Scrambled eggs in a wrap or on toast (toast is HARD to cook on a gas hob though!)
• Bacon/ sausage sandwich (bring your own bacon from the UK. Alternatively, look in European supermarkets- but it won’t look the same. It’s usually much thinner and cooks MUCH faster.)
• One Pan English Breakfast 

Note how those went from fairly healthy to full-on delicious! I’m making myself hungry!

10 easy Lunch ideas for a road trip

We tend to do lunch as we travel- or if we’re exploring we’ll treat ourselves to a cheeky lunch out. Just don’t do that at Neuschwanstein Castle ! ( Jeez- you thought Norway was expensive!!!! )

• Fresh crusty bread and… anything. Cheese, ham, tuna, butter, garlic cheese, crisps, chicken, leftover beef, fish fingers…
• Salad. We try and add some fruit or salad in where possible- we’ll pretend to be healthy every once in a while! If we’re parked up I love to fry up some chicken and pop it onto a quick salad with avocado, tomatoes and peppers. Or try these delicious healthy salad recipes . TOP TIP- WASH your salad. Even the ones in bags. They don’t always wash it in Europe. It also doesn’t seem to last as long (that might be the heat) so don’t over buy.
• Grilled Cheese (see below for recipe)
• Couscous (see below)

I have still not found a decent way to make toast in the van. It’s an ongoing process that I will continue to work at! Still, Grilled Cheese sandwiches are a perfect snack:

Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

• Sliced Bread
• Cheese (Cheddar and Mozzarella work well)

Butter bread thinly and put butter side down into hot frying pan (not too hot and use butter, not oil.) Add slices of cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Add other slice of bread on top, butter side up. After a couple of minutes (when bottom slice is brown but not burnt), flip sandwich over. Grill for a couple of minutes. For an extra touch, transfer sandwich to oven tray and bake in oven at 170’c for 5-7 minutes until cheese is totally melted.

Burritos are basically large wraps, with beans and/ or rice added into the wrap. One of the easiest ones is the bean and cheese burrito, but you can easily add in meat, sauces and any leftovers you might have.

Ingredients: 

• 1 whole-grain tortilla wrap
• 1 medium-sized can of black beans (cook in advance if needed)
• Cheese- sliced or grated

Simply spread ingredients over wrap, fold in all ends tightly and enjoy!

5 Easy Road Trip Sandwich ideas

Sometimes, simple is best. Here are some easy road trip sandwich ideas:

• Sausage or Bacon Sandwich – great for breakfast or lunch!
• Ham/Chicken/ Salami Sandwich – with or without cheese
• Jam or Peanut Butter Sandwich
• Egg Mayo Sandwich
• Tuna sandwich

Couscous is magical. Lighter than rice and so versatile. I make a big helping of this and it lasts for lunch and dinner quite happily.

The trick is to double the amount of liquid to cous cous. One cup couscous= 2 cups stock. I love to use chicken or vegetable stock. Nothing fancy; those little cubes in some boiling water are just fine. Stir until the cube disolves, then pour it over the couscous. Leave to stand for 10 minutes. The beauty of this is you can add whatever you like to it. We like lemon, mint, feta, avocado, red peppers, spring onions, celery… the list is endless. I generally make a bowl of plain couscous and we each add different fillings to it.

10 easy or make-ahead road trip meals for dinner

Ahhhh… now this is the fun part. Everyone’s been driving in the exact same motorhome for several hours… and as soon as you arrive somewhere and the van is parked up for the night, they all turn to you and ask ‘what’s for dinner?’…!

All of these recipes take no more than 30 minutes or you can make many of them ahead for the first few days of the trip.

TOP TIP- Be kind to yourself. Many people dislike ‘pre-made’ sauces, feeling that they’re ‘cheating’ if they don’t cook everything from scratch. But it’s your trip too, so don’t be judgemental about sauces from a jar. Yes, there might be a bit more sugar or salt- but it’s a heck of a lot better than a pizza or McDonalds. So be kind to yourself and make things easy.

Some easy or make-ahead meal ideas for dinners on the road:

• 3-way mince (Bolognaise, Chilli, Savoury)- can be made in the slow cooker

Spanish Omelette

• Easy make-ahead taco Bowl

Chicken Quinoa

• Pea/ Pesto Pasta

Cheats Pizza

3-way mince: bolognese, chilli or savoury.

Here’s the recipe for 3 way mince bulk cooking. You can get savoury mince, bolognese and chilli from 1 pack of mince. It’s the perfect ‘make-ahead’ recipe and is very easy to heat up on the road.

1 pack of 500g mince makes 5 meals: 2 x savoury mince 2 x chilli 1 x bolognese

Start with chopped onion, pepper, garlic and grated carrot all in one large pan with a little oil (or butter) until softened.

Split the mix between 3 pans & add the mince. Cut it long ways in the packet before adding so it’s easier to break up in the pan.

You can add any vegetables at this point. Previously I’ve used courgette, mushrooms and aubergine, all finely chopped. You can get 6/7/8 kinds of vegetables in there!

Brown the mince on a low to medium heat so it doesn’t clump together, break it up with a spoon as it cooks.  Add the seasoning to the chilli pan (cumin, turmeric, chilli powder, garlic powder and paprika) and garlic powder to the savoury mince & bolognese pans. 

Once browned, strain peas & sweetcorn (one small can of corn & 1 small can of peas and add to savoury mince pan.

Add one can of chopped tomatoes to the chilli pan & 1 to the bolognese, stir through. Drain and rinse the kidney beans and add to the chilli. I used half a can of beans, I’ll save the rest for a salad.

Rinse the tomato cans out with a little water & add to the savoury mince pan. Stir in Bisto granules (or beef stock & maybe cornflour or thickener as needed). Add a little Worcestershire sauce & pepper to taste.

Taste & adjust seasonings if necessary.

Divide & eat, or store in the fridge until ready.

Many thanks to Phillippa from PhilyaBelly for the recipe – follow her on Instagram

Serve with:

• Spaghetti, rice or potatoes.
• Garlic or crusty bread
• Grated cheese
• Side salad if your family will eat it.

I LOVE this Spanish Omelette. It’s so easy to make and only uses one pan.

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, chopped

Heat the oil in large frying pan. Peel potatoes and slice thinly. Put the slices in the pan with the onion & garlic. Cover the pan and cook until the potatoes are tender, turning them occasionally. Beat the eggs.

When the potato and onion mixture is cooked, add it to the eggs and mix together. Heat another spoon of oil in the pan, and turn the heat down as low as it will go. Pour the egg, onion & potato mixture into the pan.

The essence of this dish is slow cooking and it should take about 20 minutes. When there is no liquid left turn omelette over for 2 minutes. It’s now ready to serve and eat! Delicious- perfect with salad or french loaf.

Lamb Kebabs

Take 500g (4 people) of lean lamb mince and add spices (salt, pepper, cumin, coriander, paprika… whatever you like!) Mould into balls or around a skewer and cook on BBQ or in oven until browned.

If using BBQ and wooden skewers, soak the skewers in water for about 30 minutes first.

Serve with Tzatziki- Greek yogurt, mint, lemon and cucumber

Easy make-ahead Taco bowl

• 1 can of beef
• ½ of a small jar of salsa
• Bag of tortilla chips
• 1 can of beans
• 1 avocado/ guacamole

Warm beef and cook beans as directed on label. Mix and add on top of chips (can be warmed in oven) Add Salsa, avocado/ guacamole, sour cream and grated cheese as desired (we pop the whole thing in the oven to melt the cheese.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/4 tsp. herb de Provence (or any herbs)
• 1 cup. quinoa
• 1/4 cup. white wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup. olive oil
• 2 green onions
• 2 tbsp. Dijon mustard
• 4 cup. rocket/ lettuce/ salad
• 2/3 cup. olives, quartered
• 12 oz. tomatoes, halved
• Season chicken breasts with herbs, salt and pepper. Grill 3 minutes per side on medium-high or until cooked through.
• Cook quinoa as label directs.
• Mix vinegar, olive oil, green onions, Dijon mustard and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Toss half of the vinaigrette with cooked quinoa, salad/ rocket, tomatoes and olives. Serve chicken over quinoa with remaining vinaigrette.

Pea / Pesto Pasta

• Pasta  
• fresh or frozen peas
• Chopped chives, for serving
• Cook pasta. Drain and return pasta to pot. 
• While pasta is cooking, roughly chop 1 cup peas. Add ricotta and lemon zest and mix well. Season with salt and pepper. 
• Add ricotta mixture, remaining 1/2 cup peas, and pasta water; toss to combine. Sprinkle with chopped chives, if desired.

Alternatively, cook pasta, add several large spoons of pesto and some grated cheese and mix well.

Salmon with rice and vegetables

We eat salmon a lot- it’s very good for you.

Grill (or use a low-wattage air fryer ) and serve with rice, couscous (see above) and vegetables.

Sure, you can make your own dough and add toppings- and if that works for you, then go for it. However, we cheat.

• Grab 2 pitta breads per person and pop them under the grill
• You want them warm, but not ‘crispy’
• Turn over, and spread with pesto (green or red)
• Add mozzarella cheese, ham, salami, mushrooms… whatever you like!
• Grill until bubbling

If you’d like more inspiration, here are a couple of our favourite camping cookbooks:

Healthy Road Trip Snacks

We’ve done an entire post on 15 quick & healthy road trip snacks (many of them Keto friendly) but here are a couple more ideas for you:

• 1 large can of tuna
• ½ cup of cranberries
• A packet of whole-grain crackers

First, take the tuna out from the can and empty it into a bowl. Next, mash a whole avocado and add it with the cranberries into the tuna. Use whole-grain crackers to dip into your tuna.

Apple Cookies

• 2 green apples
• Peanut butter
• Dark chocolate chips
• Almond slices

Cut an apple into slices that resemble a cookie, then layer the rest of the ingredients in between two slices to make the snack look like an apple sandwich. The snack will stay fresh in an ice cooler for two days.

Barabrith – great snack for afternoon tea!

Other things:

Whilst we’re on the subject, don’t forget to bring:

• Washing up liquid
• Big scrubbing pad for BBQ if using
• cleaning supplies
• Kitchen roll
• Bottle/ can opener
• Mugs and glasses
• Tea/ coffee/ sugar

How else can I help you today??

• See the BEST Road Trip Journal to record your adventures!
• Show me essential Road Trip Accessories
• Get 100+ essential road trip songs (+ playlist)
• Help me plan my road trip
• See gift ideas for road trippers

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Hi Kat I’ve not tried these yet but they get a good review on Amazon. As I’ve bought the barbecue you recommended in your blogs I thought I would try to keep my new BBQ clean as I absolutely hate scrubbing it after use. Just bought a pack to try on our trip to France in September BBQ Grill Mat, Set of 5 Beeway® Non Stick Barbecue Baking Mats for Charcoal, Gas or Electric Grill – Heat Resistant, Reusable and Easy to Clean, FDA Aproved – Bonus 12″ Just thought you may also find these useful

They look amazing- let me know how you find them 🙂

The https://wandering-bird.com website is one of the best we have found, and the 15 Easy Road Trip Meal Ideas article is very well written and useful! Thanks and kisses! 🙂

I recommend a ridge monkey for camper van cooking. You can cook chicken breasts, steaks, poach eggs, bake a cake, make an omelette, and it also makes great toast!

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17 Hacks for Long Road Trips with Kids

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Traveling with kids can be such a rewarding experience. Getting to share your favorite spots with them, seeing the look of wonderment on their faces, and making unique memories that will last a lifetime make it all worthwhile. But it can be easy to forget about all of those joys when you’re six hours into what probably feels like the longest drive of your life. We’ve all been there. To help you keep your sanity, here’s a list of 17 Road Trip Hacks that will make your drive a lot more enjoyable.

Road Trip Hacks Every Parent Needs to Know

Plan Outfits in Advance. Save time by picking out your child’s outfits before the trip. Keep the outfits together by putting them in separate Ziplock bags.

Make Phone Number Bracelets for Your Child.  Use numbered beads and decorative beads to create a pretty and practical bracelet for your child to wear while you’re out and about. Should you get separated, someone will be able to contact you.

Bring Dryer Sheets. Dryer sheets will help keep your car smelling fresh no matter what happens on your drive. Plus, they’re easier to pack than other deodorizing options.

Make Your Own Audiobook. Instead of spending money on audiobooks, use a voice recording app on your smartphone to record yourself reading your child’s favorite books and play them during your drive.

Cover Your Seats with Sheets. Put old sheets over the seats of your car to catch crumbs and prevent spills from ruining your car.

Bring an Activity Book. We’ve put together a dry erase travel activity book with several printables you can use for FREE. Just laminate the pages or put them in sheet protectors, and give the kids dry erase markers to use.

Put Cling Wrap over Your Cups. If your kids are too old for sippy cups, but too young to avoid spills, cling wrap can be used as a makeshift lid. Just pull it tightly over the top, and stick a straw through it to prevent messes.

Put a Cup over Seatbelts. Trim down a disposable plastic cup, put it over the buckle, and cut a slit at the base just big enough for the latch. That way, your kids can’t unbuckle themselves throughout the drive.

Line Your Cup Holders. Put cupcake liners in your cup holders to keep them from getting sticky.

Make Your Own First Aid Kit. Don’t rely on other people having a first kit available. Build your own before you leave, in case of emergency. Include bandages, antibiotic ointment, and Tylenol.

Make a Travel Itinerary. Print out pictures of fun things that you’ll be doing on your trip as well as things you’ll be seeing on your drive. Turn them into a little book for your kids to look through to keep them excited during your road trip.

Tie Important Items Down. If your kids have a tendency to drop their favorite things onto the floor of the car, try using a string to tie sippy cups and toys to a non-essential part of the car seat. That way, your child can just pull their items right back up. No tears necessary.

Bring a Travel Tray.   Travel trays will help if your kids need a snack or want to color while you’re on the road.

Freeze Juice Boxes. Instead of using ice to keep the food and drinks in your cooler at the right temperature, try freezing juice boxes instead. It will keep everything cool, and your kids can drink them after they thaw.

Prepare Goodie Bags. Before you leave, put some inexpensive toys, snacks, and other fun items into separate paper lunch bags. Pull one out if your kids get a little restless during the trip.

Use a Tackle Box to Organize Snacks. Make sure your kids are getting healthy snacks, even when you’re on the road, by using a clean tackle box to hold a variety of snacks . Try adding things like cereal, nuts, and pretzels.

Play Road Trip Bingo. Print out a blank Bingo sheet, and fill the boxes in with things you might find along the way. A great way to keep kids entertained and engaged in the trip. Or we’ve included one in our dry erase activity book above that’ll be great for a long trip.

Organize Your Trip with a Shoe Organizer. Put an over-the-door shoe organizer over your passenger seat to keep toys, diapers, books, wipes, and whatever else you need within reach.

Hopefully, these hacks will help you to enjoy your next road trip. And who knows? You just might find that the journey can be as fun and rewarding as the destination.

If you enjoyed these 17 Road Trip Hacks , you may also like:

5 Healthy, No-Mess Travel Snacks for Kids

19 Camping Hacks Every Outdoorsy Family Needs to Know

7 Tips for Camping with a Toddler

Madeline Franzen is an auntie of five, lover of literature, and coffee addict. She spends her free time writing, binge watching Netflix shows, and curling up in a blanket with a great book and a glass of wine.

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Sunday 18th of March 2018

As my kids are getting older (ages 2-9), I often have to work out a safe and neat way to pass them snacks and other small items from the front seat. We take along a lidded Tupperware or two to make tossing things back and forth less messy. It's also less likely to get lost when it misses its mark. Aim is getting better front bound, ?

Donella Crigger

Tuesday 20th of March 2018

That's a great idea!

Stephanie Brewer

Wednesday 31st of May 2017

Our local library has a large selection of audiobooks that are great for road trips. You can even download audiobooks to your phone with your library card!

Saturday 3rd of June 2017

That's a great tip! Thank you!

Tuesday 30th of May 2017

I loved the idea about making bracelets with your phone number for kids in case they get separated. I will be doing this for our trip to Canada this summer!

That's my favorite idea from the list, too!