The Ultimate Guide to USA Road Trip Routes: Your Passport to America’s Highways and Byways

Picture this: windows down, your favorite tunes playing, the open road stretching out before you. There’s nothing quite as quintessentially American as a classic road trip. It’s a chance to explore the country’s diverse landscapes, from majestic mountains to stunning coastlines, lush forests to stark deserts. It’s an opportunity to discover hidden gems, visit iconic landmarks, and create unforgettable memories with friends and family.

But with so many potential routes crisscrossing the United States, where do you begin? How do you craft the perfect itinerary that balances your time, interests, and budget? That’s where this ultimate guide comes in. We’ve done the legwork for you, researching and curating a collection of the best road trip routes across America.

Whether you’re dreaming of driving the Pacific Coast Highway with the wind in your hair, exploring the rugged beauty of the Southwest’s national parks, or chasing fall colors through New England’s charming towns, we’ve got you covered. Each route we’ll discuss offers a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and opportunities for adventure.

But before we dive into specific itineraries, let’s take a moment to discuss some key considerations for planning any successful road trip. By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a journey that’s tailored to your unique interests and travel style.

Planning Your Perfect Road Trip

A great road trip is about more than just getting from Point A to Point B. It’s about the experiences you have along the way, the memories you make, and the sense of freedom and exploration that comes with hitting the open road. To ensure your trip is as smooth and enjoyable as possible, consider these planning tips:

Choose Your Route and Stops Wisely

The first step in any road trip is deciding where you want to go. Are you drawn to particular regions or landscapes, like the mountains, the coast, or the desert? Do you want to visit specific cities, national parks, or attractions? Answering these questions will help you narrow down potential routes.

Once you have a general idea of your destination(s), it’s time to map out your route and identify potential stops along the way. This is where research comes in handy. Look for scenic drives, interesting towns, state parks, and other points of interest that align with your interests. Remember, the journey is part of the adventure, so don’t be afraid to take detours and explore off the beaten path.

Consider the Time of Year

The time of year you embark on your road trip can greatly impact your experience. Some routes, like New England’s fall foliage drive, are best during specific seasons. Others, like trips through the Southwest’s deserts, are more comfortable in spring or fall when temperatures are milder.

Weather can also be a factor, especially if you’re planning outdoor activities like hiking or camping. Be sure to research typical weather patterns for your desired route and time of year, and pack accordingly.

Plan Your Accommodations

Depending on your route and travel style, your accommodation options may range from hotels and motels to vacation rentals, campsites, and even RV parks. Consider your budget, comfort level, and the types of amenities you need.

If you’re planning to stay in popular destinations or national parks, be sure to book your accommodations well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Many national park lodges and campgrounds fill up months ahead of time.

Prepare Your Vehicle

Before embarking on any long road trip, it’s crucial to ensure your vehicle is in top shape. Schedule a tune-up with your mechanic, checking key components like brakes, tires, fluids, and belts. If you’re renting a vehicle, choose one that’s comfortable, reliable, and suited to your route (for example, you may want a four-wheel-drive vehicle for some mountainous or rugged areas).

Don’t forget to pack an emergency kit with essentials like a spare tire, jack, jumper cables, flashlight, and basic tools. It’s also a good idea to have a roadside assistance plan or membership, just in case.

Allow for Flexibility

While it’s important to have a general plan, one of the joys of a road trip is the flexibility to adapt and explore. Don’t pack your itinerary so tightly that you miss out on spontaneous detours or linger-worthy stops. Leave some room for serendipity, whether that means pulling over at a quirky roadside attraction or spending an extra day hiking in a particularly beautiful spot.

With these planning tips in mind, let’s explore some of the most iconic and rewarding road trip routes across the United States, from coast to coast and everywhere in between.

The Pacific Coast Highway: A Scenic Coastal Cruise

One of the most iconic road trips in the United States is the Pacific Coast Highway (also known as California State Route 1 or PCH). This coastal drive stretches over 650 miles from San Francisco to Los Angeles, offering breathtaking ocean views, charming seaside towns, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Highlights of a Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

• San Francisco: Begin your journey in this vibrant city known for its hilly streets, diverse neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.
• Santa Cruz: This laid-back beach town is famous for its surf culture, historic boardwalk amusement park, and nearby redwood forests.
• Monterey and Carmel: Explore the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, play a round at Pebble Beach Golf Links, or wander the charming streets of Carmel-by-the-Sea.
• Big Sur: This rugged stretch of coastline is the PCH’s crown jewel, offering dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and hiking trails through redwood groves and along the ocean’s edge.
• Hearst Castle: Tour this opulent hilltop estate built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, known for its lavish architecture, art collection, and colorful history.
• Santa Barbara: Dubbed the “American Riviera,” this elegant city boasts Spanish Colonial architecture, upscale dining and shopping, and pristine beaches.
• Los Angeles: End your trip exploring the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, the beaches of Malibu, and the diverse neighborhoods of this sprawling metropolis.

Natural Wonders and Outdoor Adventures

In addition to its scenic coastal views, the Pacific Coast Highway offers ample opportunities to explore California’s diverse landscapes and engage in outdoor activities:

• Hiking in Big Sur: Trails like the Ewoldsen Trail in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and the Overlook Trail at Andrew Molera State Park offer stunning views of the rugged coastline and lush forests.
• Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for sea otters, harbor seals, and even whales along the coast, especially near Monterey Bay and Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.
• Beach Hopping: From the expansive sands of Santa Monica to the hidden coves of Big Sur, the PCH offers countless opportunities to sunbathe, swim, surf, and soak in the coastal beauty.

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or simply a chance to cruise along one of the world’s most scenic coastlines, a Pacific Coast Highway road trip promises an unforgettable journey.

The Southwest National Parks Circuit: A Journey Through Red Rock Country

The American Southwest is home to some of the country’s most iconic national parks, each offering unique landscapes of red rock canyons, towering hoodoos, and vast desert expanses. This road trip route takes you on a circuit through the heart of red rock country, with stops at a string of national parks and monuments across Utah and Arizona.

Highlights of a Southwest National Parks Road Trip

• Zion National Park: Begin your journey in this stunning park known for its towering sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and hiking trails ranging from easy nature walks to strenuous backcountry adventures.
• Bryce Canyon National Park: Marvel at the park’s otherworldly landscape of hoodoos (tall, thin spires of rock) and natural amphitheaters, best viewed at sunrise or sunset when the colors are most vibrant.
• Capitol Reef National Park: This lesser-known park offers a quieter, more remote experience, with opportunities to explore colorful cliffs, ancient petroglyphs, and the historic fruit orchards of Fruita.
• Arches National Park: As the name suggests, this park is famous for its more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches, as well as other geological wonders like balanced rocks and towering pinnacles.
• Canyonlands National Park: This vast park is divided into four distinct districts, each offering a different perspective on the Colorado Plateau’s rugged landscape of canyons, mesas, and buttes.
• Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park: While not a national park, this iconic landscape of sandstone buttes and mesas is a must-see, recognizable from countless Western films and advertisements.
• Grand Canyon National Park: End your trip at perhaps the most famous natural wonder in the United States, the vast and colorful Grand Canyon, carved over millions of years by the Colorado River.

Natural Wonders and Outdoor Adventures

The Southwest’s national parks offer endless opportunities for outdoor exploration and adventure, from hiking and backpacking to rock climbing and mountain biking. Some highlights include:

• Hiking in Zion: Tackle the strenuous but rewarding Angels Landing trail, or wade through the Virgin River in the famous Narrows slot canyon.
• Scenic Drives: Take in the stunning views on scenic routes like the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, Capitol Reef’s Scenic Drive, and the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands.
• Stargazing: The dark skies over the Southwest’s remote parks offer some of the best stargazing in the country, with opportunities to view the Milky Way and countless constellations.
• Guided Tours: Join a ranger-led hike or talk to learn about the parks’ geology, ecology, and human history, or book a guided tour for activities like horseback riding or jeep excursions.

A road trip through the Southwest’s national parks offers a chance to immerse yourself in some of the most unique and awe-inspiring landscapes in the United States, from the depths of the Grand Canyon to the towering heights of Zion’s cliffs.

The Blue Ridge Parkway: A Journey Through Appalachian Beauty

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile scenic drive that winds through the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. This route offers stunning views of rolling hills, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring charming mountain towns.

Highlights of a Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip

• Shenandoah National Park: Begin your journey in this park known for its scenic overlooks, cascading waterfalls, and over 500 miles of hiking trails, including a portion of the famous Appalachian Trail.
• Peaks of Otter: This popular stop along the parkway offers stunning views of three mountain peaks, as well as hiking trails, a historic lodge, and a peaceful lake perfect for fishing or picnicking.
• Mabry Mill: Perhaps the most iconic site along the parkway, this historic gristmill and blacksmith shop offer a glimpse into Appalachian life in the early 1900s.
• Linville Falls: Take a short hike to view this multi-tiered waterfall, one of the most photographed along the parkway.
• Asheville, North Carolina: This vibrant mountain city offers a thriving arts scene, historic architecture, microbreweries, and easy access to outdoor activities in the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park: End your trip in America’s most visited national park, known for its diverse plant and animal life, misty mountain vistas, and historic sites like Cades Cove.

Natural Wonders and Outdoor Adventures

The Blue Ridge Parkway offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation, from short nature walks to challenging backcountry treks. Some highlights include:

• Hiking: Tackle portions of the Appalachian Trail in Shenandoah or Great Smoky Mountains, or explore shorter trails to waterfalls, overlooks, and scenic areas like Linville Gorge or Craggy Gardens.
• Camping: The parkway offers numerous campgrounds, from developed sites with amenities to more primitive backcountry options.
• Fall Foliage: If you time your trip for late September to mid-October, you’ll be treated to a stunning display of fall colors as the parkway’s forests burst into shades of red, orange, and gold.
• Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for the parkway’s diverse wildlife, including black bears, white-tailed deer, and a variety of birds and butterflies.

A Blue Ridge Parkway road trip offers a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Appalachian Mountains, from the stunning overlooks and waterfalls to the charming towns and living history sites along the way.

The Alaska Highway: A Journey to the Last Frontier

For an epic road trip that truly embodies the spirit of adventure, consider driving the Alaska Highway from British Columbia to Alaska. This 1,387-mile route takes you through some of North America’s most remote and pristine wilderness, offering opportunities to see glaciers, mountains, wildlife, and the unique culture of the far north.

Highlights of an Alaska Highway Road Trip

• Dawson Creek, British Columbia: Begin your journey at Mile 0 of the Alaska Highway in this small city, which serves as a hub for travelers and offers a museum dedicated to the highway’s history.
• Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park: Take a relaxing soak in these natural hot springs, surrounded by lush boreal forest and often visited by moose and other wildlife.
• Whitehorse, Yukon: This quirky frontier city offers a taste of Gold Rush history, a vibrant arts scene, and access to outdoor recreation like fishing, hiking, and mountain biking.
• Kluane National Park: Home to Canada’s highest peak (Mount Logan), this vast wilderness park offers glaciers, mountains, and opportunities to spot Dall sheep, grizzly bears, and other iconic wildlife.
• Wrangell-St. Elias National Park: On the Alaskan side of the border, this sprawling park offers more opportunities for glacier viewing, backcountry hiking, and experience the state’s rugged beauty.
• Anchorage: End your trip in Alaska’s largest city, which offers a mix of urban amenities, cultural attractions, and easy access to nearby wilderness areas like Chugach State Park.

Natural Wonders and Outdoor Adventures

An Alaska Highway road trip is all about immersing yourself in the vast, rugged wilderness of the north. Some highlights include:

• Hiking: Take a short nature walk or tackle a more strenuous backcountry trail in one of the many provincial and national parks along the route.
• Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for iconic northern species like moose, bears, caribou, and bald eagles, especially in places like Kluane National Park and along the Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge.
• Glacier Viewing: Take a flightseeing tour, go for a guided hike, or simply marvel at the massive glaciers visible from the highway, like the Kaskawulsh Glacier in Kluane.
• Hot Springs: In addition to Liard River, the highway offers access to other natural hot springs like Takhini and Chena, perfect for a relaxing soak after a day of driving.

An Alaska Highway road trip is not for the faint of heart – it requires careful planning, a reliable vehicle, and a sense of adventure. But for those willing to make the journey, it offers an unforgettable experience of North America’s last great wilderness.

Other Notable Road Trip Routes

While we’ve covered some of the most iconic road trip routes in the United States, there are countless other options to explore depending on your interests and travel style. Here are a few more notable routes to consider:

• Route 66: This historic highway runs from Chicago to Los Angeles, offering a nostalgic journey through the heart of America’s Heartland and Southwest.
• The Florida Keys: Drive the Overseas Highway from Miami to Key West, hopping between islands and enjoying the laid-back, tropical vibe of the Florida Keys.
• The Great River Road: Follow the Mississippi River from its source in Minnesota to its mouth in Louisiana, passing through 10 states and countless historic river towns.
• The New England Coast: Explore the charming seaside towns, historic sites, and rugged coastline of New England, from Cape Cod to Acadia National Park.
• The Black Hills and Badlands: Take a drive through South Dakota’s stunning Black Hills and Badlands, with stops at iconic sites like Mount Rushmore and Wind Cave National Park.

FAQ

1. What are some of the most iconic road trip routes in the United States?

The United States is home to countless scenic drives and iconic road trip routes. Some of the most famous and breathtaking ones include:

• Pacific Coast Highway (PCH): Also known as California State Route 1, this stunning coastal drive winds along the Pacific Ocean from San Francisco to Los Angeles, passing through picturesque towns like Monterey, Carmel, and Santa Barbara. Highlights include the dramatic cliffs of Big Sur, the Bixby Creek Bridge, and the sandy beaches of Malibu. The PCH offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and laid-back California culture.
• Route 66: Perhaps the most quintessential American road trip, historic Route 66 stretches from Chicago to Los Angeles, crossing eight states and covering over 2,400 miles. Though officially decommissioned, much of the original route remains, dotted with nostalgic diners, quirky roadside attractions, and neon-lit motels. Driving Route 66 is like taking a journey through the heart of America’s past and present.
• Blue Ridge Parkway: This 469-mile scenic drive connects Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, winding through the stunning Appalachian Mountains. The parkway offers endless vistas of rolling hills, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls, especially spectacular in the fall when the leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold. Highlights include the Linn Cove Viaduct, Linville Falls, and the charming mountain town of Asheville.
• Oregon Trail: Retrace the path of the pioneers along the Oregon Trail, the historic 2,000-mile wagon route that brought settlers from Missouri to Oregon in the mid-1800s. While the original trail was traveled by foot and wagon, modern road trippers can follow the Oregon National Historic Trail Auto Route, which roughly parallels the trail from Independence, Missouri to Oregon City, Oregon. Along the way, stop at landmarks like Chimney Rock, Fort Laramie, and Scotts Bluff, and visit interpretive centers to learn about the trail’s history.

For more inspiration, check out Travel + Leisure’s list of the best road trips in the U.S. or National Geographic’s iconic American road trips.

2. What are the must-see national parks for a Southwest road trip?

The American Southwest is a mecca for national park enthusiasts, boasting some of the country’s most iconic and awe-inspiring landscapes. If you’re planning a Southwest road trip, here are the national parks you won’t want to miss:

• Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona): No Southwest road trip is complete without a visit to the Grand Canyon, one of the world’s most recognizable and breathtaking natural wonders. Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, this vast chasm stretches 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep. Take in the sweeping views from the South Rim, hike into the canyon on the Bright Angel Trail, or raft the Colorado River for a truly immersive experience.
• Zion National Park (Utah): Known for its towering sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and stunning desert landscapes, Zion is a hiker’s paradise. Must-do trails include the strenuous Angels Landing, the family-friendly Emerald Pools, and the iconic Narrows, where you’ll wade through the Virgin River between soaring canyon walls. Don’t miss the scenic drive along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, with stops at viewpoints like the Court of the Patriarchs and the Temple of Sinawava.
• Bryce Canyon National Park (Utah): Famous for its otherworldly landscape of hoodoos (tall, thin spires of rock), Bryce Canyon is a marvel of erosion. The best way to experience the park is by hiking down into the amphitheater, weaving among the hoodoos on trails like the Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden. The park is also known for its incredible stargazing, with some of the darkest skies in the country.
• Arches National Park (Utah): Home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including the iconic Delicate Arch, this park is a photographer’s dream. Hike to landmarks like Landscape Arch (the longest arch in North America), Double Arch, and the Windows, or take a scenic drive along the 18-mile main road. Be sure to catch a sunset at Delicate Arch, when the sandstone glows a fiery red.
• Joshua Tree National Park (California): Named for its distinctive, spiky Joshua trees, this desert park straddles the Mojave and Colorado deserts. Highlights include hiking to hidden oases like 49 Palms, rock climbing on the park’s granite monoliths, and stargazing under some of the darkest skies in Southern California. Don’t miss the surreal landscape of Skull Rock or the Cholla Cactus Garden at sunrise.

For more information on these and other Southwest parks, check out the National Park Service website. And for road trip inspiration, see The Dyrt Magazine’s guide to the ultimate Southwest national parks road trip.

3. How do I plan a road trip itinerary?

Planning a road trip itinerary involves a combination of big-picture thinking and detailed logistics. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan your perfect route:

1. Choose your destination(s): Start by deciding where you want to go. Are you dreaming of the Pacific Coast, the Rocky Mountains, the Southwest deserts, or the charming towns of New England? Consider how much time you have, your travel style, and your must-see attractions.
2. Map out your route: Once you’ve chosen your destination(s), plot out your route using a tool like Google Maps or RoadTrippers. Consider factors like scenic drives, major cities, national parks, and other points of interest. Try to balance driving time with exploration time – a good rule of thumb is to aim for no more than 4-5 hours of driving per day, leaving plenty of time for stops and activities.
3. Make a list of must-see stops: Research the towns, parks, and attractions along your route and make a list of your must-see stops. Consider a mix of well-known landmarks and off-the-beaten-path gems. Look for recommendations from travel guides, blogs, and locals in the know.
4. Book your accommodations: Once you have a rough itinerary, start booking your accommodations. Consider a mix of hotels, vacation rentals, camping, and quirky roadside motels. Book in advance for popular destinations and peak seasons, but leave some flexibility for spontaneous stops and detours.
5. Plan your activities: Research and book any activities or tours that require advance reservations, like national park permits, guided hikes, or cultural experiences. Leave some unscheduled time for spontaneous exploration and unexpected discoveries.
6. Make a packing list: Make a list of essentials to pack for your trip, including clothing, toiletries, snacks, entertainment, and emergency supplies. Consider the weather, activities, and length of your trip when packing.
7. Prepare your vehicle: Before hitting the road, give your car a tune-up, check your tires and fluids, and pack an emergency kit with jumper cables, a spare tire, and basic tools. Consider getting a roadside assistance plan for added peace of mind.
8. Be flexible: Remember, even the best-laid plans can change. Leave room in your itinerary for unexpected detours, roadside attractions, and local recommendations. Embrace the serendipity of the open road and be open to new experiences.

For more detailed guidance, check out Road Trip USA’s step-by-step guide to planning a road trip or Fodor’s tips for crafting the perfect itinerary.

4. How can I save money on a road trip?

Road trips can be an affordable way to travel, but costs can quickly add up if you’re not careful. Here are some tips for saving money on your next road trip:

• Plan your route efficiently: The more miles you drive, the more you’ll spend on gas. Plan your route to minimize backtracking and unnecessary detours, and consider taking slower scenic routes instead of gas-guzzling highways.
• Use gas apps to find cheap fuel: Download apps like GasBuddy or Waze to find the cheapest gas prices along your route. Consider filling up in smaller towns or at off-brand stations, which often have lower prices than major chains in big cities.
• Pack your own snacks and meals: Eating out for every meal can quickly blow your budget. Pack a cooler with sandwiches, fruits, veggies, and other easy-to-eat snacks, and consider cooking some meals at your accommodations if you have access to a kitchen.
• Choose affordable accommodations: Skip the fancy hotels in favor of budget-friendly options like camping, vacation rentals, or roadside motels. Consider booking through sites like Airbnb or VRBO, which often have lower prices than traditional hotels.
• Take advantage of free activities: Many destinations offer free or low-cost activities like hiking, beaches, public art, and community events. Do your research ahead of time and plan to take advantage of these budget-friendly options.
• Use a rewards credit card: If you have good credit, consider signing up for a rewards credit card that offers points or cash back on gas, dining, and travel purchases. Just be sure to pay off your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges.
• Bring your own entertainment: Instead of paying for expensive attractions or tours, bring your own entertainment like books, games, or a streaming service subscription. Many libraries also offer free digital rentals of audiobooks and movies, perfect for long drives.
• Travel during the off-season: If your schedule allows, consider traveling during the shoulder season (spring or fall) when crowds are thinner and prices are lower. Avoid holidays and peak summer months when rates are at their highest.

For more budget-friendly road trip tips, check out The Penny Hoarder’s guide to saving money on a road trip or Budget Travel’s tips for a fantastic (and affordable) road trip.

5. How do I stay entertained on long drives?

Long stretches of highway can quickly become tedious, especially if you’re not prepared. Here are some ideas for staying entertained on your next road trip:

• Create a killer playlist: Before you hit the road, spend some time curating the perfect road trip playlist. Mix up genres, tempos, and eras to keep things interesting, and consider making collaborative playlists with your travel companions. Spotify and Apple Music both offer pre-made road trip playlists if you need inspiration.
• Download podcasts and audiobooks: Podcasts and audiobooks are perfect for long drives, offering hours of entertainment without requiring your visual attention. Download a mix of comedy, true crime, history, and storytelling podcasts, or choose an epic audiobook series to keep you engaged for the whole trip.
• Play road trip games: Classic road trip games like I Spy, 20 Questions, and the License Plate Game are perfect for passing the time and bonding with your fellow travelers. For a modern twist, try apps like Heads Up! or trivia games like QuizUp.
• Take breaks and explore: Don’t be afraid to take frequent breaks to stretch your legs, grab a snack, or explore a quirky roadside attraction. Use apps like Roadside America or Atlas Obscura to find hidden gems along your route, and plan to stop at scenic overlooks or historical markers for a dose of local flavor.
• Get to know your travel companions: Long drives are the perfect opportunity for deep conversations and bonding with your friends or family. Come prepared with thought-provoking questions or stories to share, and take turns playing DJ or navigator to keep everyone engaged.
• Bring portable hobbies: If you have a portable hobby like knitting, drawing, or writing, bring supplies to keep your hands and mind busy during long stretches of driving. Just be sure not to distract the driver or take up too much space in the car.
• Embrace the scenery: Sometimes, the best entertainment is right outside your window. Take in the changing landscapes, spot wildlife, and marvel at the natural beauty of the world around you. Bring a camera or sketchbook to capture your favorite moments, or simply let your mind wander and daydream.

For more road trip entertainment ideas, check out The Points Guy’s tips for staying entertained on a road trip or Travel + Leisure’s road trip games for adults.

6. How do I choose the right vehicle for a road trip?

Choosing the right vehicle for your road trip is crucial for comfort, safety, and enjoyment. Here are some factors to consider when selecting your ride:

• Size and capacity: Consider how many people and how much gear you’ll be bringing on your trip. If you’re traveling with a large group or planning to camp, you may need a larger vehicle like an SUV or minivan. If it’s just you and a friend, a smaller car may suffice.
• Fuel efficiency: The more miles you plan to drive, the more important fuel efficiency becomes. Look for vehicles with good gas mileage to save money on fuel costs, especially if you’re planning a long trip. Hybrid or electric vehicles can be a good choice for eco-conscious travelers.
• Comfort and amenities: Long hours on the road can be tough on your body, so choose a vehicle with comfortable seats, plenty of legroom, and amenities like air conditioning and cruise control. If you plan to work or stay connected on the road, look for vehicles with Wi-Fi hotspots or USB charging ports.
• Reliability and safety: You don’t want to be stranded on the side of the road with a broken-down vehicle, so choose a reliable car with a good safety record. Check vehicle history reports and safety ratings before making a decision, and consider purchasing a roadside assistance plan for added peace of mind.
• Terrain and weather: Consider the types of terrain and weather conditions you’ll encounter on your trip. If you’re planning to drive on rough or unpaved roads, you may need a vehicle with all-wheel drive or high clearance. If you’re traveling in winter, look for vehicles with good traction control and heated seats.
• Age and mileage: If you’re renting a vehicle, check the age and mileage before booking. Older vehicles with high mileage may be less reliable and less comfortable for long trips. If you’re taking your own car, make sure it’s in good condition and up-to-date on maintenance before hitting the road.
• Cost: Finally, consider your budget when choosing a vehicle. Renting a larger or more luxurious car may be more expensive, but it could be worth it for the added comfort and space. If you’re taking your own car, factor in the costs of maintenance, repairs, and potential breakdowns.

For more guidance on choosing the right vehicle, check out Edmunds’ road trip vehicle buying guide or AutoTrader’s tips for choosing the perfect road trip car.

7. What should I pack for a road trip?

Packing for a road trip requires a balance of comfort, convenience, and preparedness. Here are some essentials to consider when packing for your next adventure:

• Comfortable clothing: Pack clothes that are comfortable for long hours in the car, like leggings, sweatpants, and soft t-shirts. Bring layers for varying weather conditions, and don’t forget a rain jacket or umbrella.
• Snacks and drinks: Bring a variety of easy-to-eat snacks like granola bars, trail mix, and fresh fruit, as well as plenty of water and other beverages to stay hydrated. Consider bringing a cooler for perishables like sandwiches and veggies.
• Entertainment: Pack books, magazines, games, and other forms of entertainment for long stretches of driving. Don’t forget chargers for your devices, and consider bringing a portable battery pack for emergencies.
• Toiletries and personal care items: Bring your usual toiletries like toothpaste, deodorant, and shampoo, as well as any medications you may need. Consider packing wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and sunscreen for on-the-go cleanliness and protection.