Have you ever visualized your personal iconic American road trip? We all have as there’s nothing as exhilarating as planning the best stops, piling luggage into the car, and zipping along the road.
Such a trip, besides being full of adventures, is more economical than taking flights. Studies have found that the cost of commuting via road from New York to Los Angeles has not drastically changed between 2019 and 2024.
This is mainly because the drop in gas prices compensated for any hike in lodging and food costs. 2024 will continue to be a year that promises frame-worthy road trips across different American borders. However, such a trip requires proper planning, which we will discuss in this article. Keep reading to learn tips that will make your cross-country road trip streamlined, joyous, and stress-free.
Decide the Route Beforehand
Cross-country road trips are essentially a traveler’s subtle proclamation of their love for spontaneity, thrills, and adventures. Some take it to the extreme level of not planning their itinerary at all. This may work for some routes but not for others.
In many cases, you may discover that a route led to wasted time, loss of fuel, and even unpleasant surprises. For instance – the most scenic of routes can reach a dead-end or unfurl deep ditches, uneven terrain, and washed-out narrow paths. In case your vehicle gets stuck, it may be challenging to get it out.
Even if you do, you may have lost hours, sans the precious time you will still lose while returning to the original spot. Take local recommendations with a grain of salt and plan your itinerary for the most part. Have GPS tools handy to map out your journey. This will help you avoid unwelcome surprises and wasted time.
Moreover, you’d be able to schedule activities for each day or location to get the most out of your trip. A well-planned journey is the best way to discover new places beyond familiar borders.
Determine the Mode of Travel
Your vehicle is going to be the surest companion throughout this trip, so choose one wisely. One of the top fails of a cross-country road trip is choosing to drive an incompetent car. What if there are any defects that you overlooked before starting your journey?
Moreover, your vehicle may be prim and proper in the beginning but the uneven terrain along the trip may affect its integrity. Suppose you chose the historic Route 66 for your cross-country road trip. Starting from Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, California, this route takes you through vibrant cities like St. Louis and Oklahoma City.
However, the typography varies widely as the flat roads of St. Louis gradually give way to the rugged rough terrain of Oklahoma City. Navigating such an evolving landscape can have serious consequences. Your car could suddenly stop in the middle of nowhere or worse yet, end up in a gruesome accident.
Before you leave, it’s crucial to perform all standard maintenance checks, including the tires, engine oil, spark plugs, brakes, etc. You must also carry extra supplies in the form of coolants, wiper fluid, and windshield wiper replacements. On second thoughts, it would be best to avoid troubling your vehicle altogether.
Yes, we recommend hiring one instead. Services like Sprinter van rental in Chicago are easily available. A sprinter van generally comes with amenities like ample storage space, DVD players, climate control, and more.
The cost will depend on factors like the duration of the trip, peak season, and whether you opt for a basic or luxury van. Moreover, Eminent Limo states that a wide variety of seating configurations are possible. This means even your extended family or friends can join the trip to travel in comfort and style.
Choose Reasonable Overnight Stays
Another mistake many cross-country road trips traveling enthusiasts make is they do not plan their overnight stays. You do not want to wait until everybody is exhausted to hunt for a local hotel or hostel. The situation may be even worse if children are involved and they wish to rest or use the bathroom.
As you plan your itinerary, make room for the budget and accommodation along the way. There are many options to choose from, including motels, AirBnBs, bed and breakfasts, or even friends and family. Be flexible and use a blend of all these to ensure an overall balanced and affordable trip.
Planning your overnight stays ahead of time comes with an added safety benefit. You can share your itinerary with a trusted family member or friend back home. In case someone is not able to get hold of you, they’ll know where you might be and when.
Carry All Essentials for All People
Once your itinerary, mode of traveling, and accommodation options are decided, it’s time to pack well! Start this process also well in advance to ensure you do not miss out on any essentials. Keep in mind the number of people as well as their unique needs.
Let’s begin with basic items like sufficient water and snacks for at least 24 hours. We recommend carrying high-protein snacks that will provide enough energy for any unforeseen delays or situations. You must also take with you relevant entertainment for all age groups.
In reality, there is only so much music that you can hear. Children are not even going to like that. Perhaps carry some board games or toys for them. Adults can also enjoy board games or you can carry a pack of cards separately. Such activities will also make the road trip more enjoyable and memorable.
Besides these basics, you must have a tool kit handy for any urgent minor maintenance work. The kit would comprise an air pump, jumper cables, a flashlight, duct tape, and flat tire patches. Similarly, carry an emergency first-aid kit that has all the tools needed for cuts, sprains, etc.
In the case of individuals with specific medication needs, take those in separately labeled packages. As a bonus, you can carry a blanket and umbrella along since there may be inclement weather conditions to deal with.
Look up Weather Reports and Traffic
This point has been covered to some extent previously. However, it’s too critical to miss out, so we shall mention it again. Map out which areas you’ll be covering and check weather reports and traffic conditions for each.
Besides carrying relevant essentials, you may need to adjust departure time. Think of an approaching thunderstorm or snowstorm. On the same note, your drive may need adjustments around the local traffic patterns.
Suppose your trip coincides with a particular city’s peak traffic hours. It would be better to stop for a meal or some refreshments instead of getting stuck in traffic.
Besides the tips mentioned above, there is an exciting piece of information we must share before closing. It is expected that 196 million Americans will drive their way across the country this summer. Many are breaking open their shells of nervousness to try this adventure for the first time.
Whether you’re also new or a seasoned cross-country terrestrial traveler, planning is a must. When you apply the tips discussed in this article, spontaneity will not go overboard and the fear of the unknown won’t hold you back.
