Summer is the perfect time for a road trip. There’s nothing quite like the freedom of the open road, wind in your hair, sun on your face. Road trips allow you to see places and have experiences you never could flying from one location to another.
Planning Your Route
The first step in a great road trip is planning your route. Decide which places you’d like to see and map out the stops along the way. Make sure to plan for roughly 6 hours of drive time per day, leaving plenty of time for breaks and sightseeing. Apps like Roadtrippers are great for mapping routes with interesting stops.
Packing Tips
Once your route is set, it’s time to pack. Bring only the essentials – a week’s worth of clothing, toiletries, phone charger, medications, and emergency kit. Travel size everything! You’ll want snacks, water, and drinks for the road too. Don’t forget your road trip playlist loaded with sing-along classics. Consider a car broker if you need a reliable set of wheels.
Lodging Options
One of the best parts of a road trip is experiencing unique lodging along the way. Escape cookie-cutter hotels in favor of quirky Airbnbs, cozy cabins, and retro motels. Camping under the stars can be magical too. Mix up camping, hotels, and alternative lodging to keep things interesting.
Instagram Worthy Destinations
Part of the fun of a road trip is capturing those Instagram worthy moments at the top destinations. Some classics like the World’s Largest Ball of Twine, Wall Drug, and the Big Texan Steak Ranch are a must. Also make time for photo ops at roadside oddities like the Mystery Sphere in Pennsylvania and Airstream Ranch in Florida.
Enjoy the Journey
While the destination is important, remember the journey is the best part. Don’t rush, take the scenic routes, and soak up the landscapes you drive through. Keep your eyes open for quirky roadside attractions and hole-in-the-wall eateries along the way. Enjoy the freedom that comes from focusing on the journey, not just the destination.
Road Trip Activities
You’ll want to plan some activities to pass the time during long hauls. The classics like road trip bingo, the license plate game, and 20 questions never get old. Bring books, magazines, and downloads of your favorite podcasts. Some other fun ideas include picking a theme song of the day, coming up with silly carpool karaoke, and journaling about your experience.
Budget Friendly Tips
One concern with road trips can be cost. With some savvy planning, you can have an amazing experience on a budget. Pack snacks, drinks, and meals to save on food costs. Stay at budget hotels off the beaten path. Take advantage of free attractions like national parks and public beaches. A road trip can be done on the cheap if you’re creative.
Safety First
While road trips are iconic summer adventures, safety should be your top priority. Get your vehicle tuned up before departing and inspect tires and fluid levels regularly. Plan routes avoiding heavy traffic when possible. Share your route with friends and family back home. Limit consecutive hours driving and take frequent breaks to stay sharp. Stay safe out there!
Unexpected Magic
The best part of a road trip is the unexpected magic that happens along the way. You’ll create lifelong memories with friends or family. Meet interesting characters at diners and campgrounds, forging new friendships. Have the space and freedom to think, reflect, and gain inspiring new perspectives. Road trips have a way of changing you for the better.
So what are you waiting for? This summer, embrace spontaneity and adventure. Throw caution to the wind, hit the open road, and let the magic unfold. Wherever the highway takes you, enjoy the journey. Those summer road trip memories will stay with you for a lifetime.
