A road trip across the country can be one of the most refreshing experiences of your life. There is so much to do and see. And how knows, you could be the next Lewis and Clark!
Anyway, suppose you’re looking for an opportunity to break the monotony of a busy daily routine. In that case, a good ol’ fashioned American cross-country road trip might be the thing that was missing from your life.
However, it would be wise to plan the trip before hitting the gas. That way, you won’t don’t find yourself at a loose end when you’re on the road in the middle of nowhere. Here are a few tips you can consider to plan the perfect cross-country road trip!
Plan your stays in advance
With the internet at your fingertips, it shouldn’t be too hard to find the perfect places to stay along the way. Besides, you’d want a place to unwind and give your vehicle of choice a break. As you move through the country, it would be wise to stay in a few towns along the way and appreciate what they have to offer. Not only will this give you a chance to experience America in all its splendor, but it will give you a much-needed break from life – and driving.
Comfort, convenience, and charm always go a long way on a road trip. For example, if you pass through Tennessee, check out the Smokey Mountains and the breathtaking views they offer. What a stress buster! If it’s too hot, you can always check in at one of those Gatlinburg cabins with indoor pool to beat the heat! Similarly, plan your pit-stops by selecting the most picturesque locations and book your stays accordingly.
Get the car prepped
We cannot stress how necessary it is for your vehicle to be in top condition to take on this trip. The engine needs to be ready to take on high RPMs for extended periods. You also need to check the radiator before you head out. Get the tires aligned and have the mechanic check out the ball joints. You don’t want a shaky as you speed across the country.
Moreover, it would be wise to get the car cleaned in advance to have a comfortable space to travel in. Keep a spare tire ready to go, ensure that you have a winch or tow rope, and also ensure you have a tool kit in the car. Getting stuck in the middle of nowhere isn’t just a hassle; it’s also perilous. If you have a reasonable budget, consider renting an RV. Those big boys are designed for making long journeys extremely easy and comfy.
Keep the weather in mind
It would be wise to look at the weather forecasts for each city/state you are traveling through. Being ill-equipped when traveling through the south with the blazing heat can be extremely dangerous. It’s the desert; if you don’t have an A/C in the car and copious amounts of cold water, you will have a tough time traversing the terrain.
Similarly, if you happen to be traveling through the north, make sure you pack your clothes accordingly. You may not fully understand the gravity of the climate until you are in the terrain and underdressed.
Of course, the time of the year plays a significant role when you are planning your road trip. There’s a minimal chance that the weather is going to take you by surprise. The only way that could happen is if there is a significant oversight on your part or the weather drastically changes in a short time.
Carry only the essentials
We live in a time where the word ‘essential’ has a different meaning for everyone. However, here are a few things you should always carry on your road trip across the country.
- Money or credit card – you need to buy fuel and a bunch of other stuff on the way. Ensure you have enough resources on your hand.
- Blankets and pillows – if you ever have to wing it and stay in the car, ensure you have everything necessary to get through the night.
- Sanitary equipment – soap, hand sanitizers, shaving foam, and a razor, sanitary pads, and wet wipes are all vital. Oh, and don’t forget your toothbrush and toothpaste either!
- Important documents – you should be carrying your driver’s license, car documents, and whatever other documents you think you would need on a trip across the country.
Take the scenic route
It depends where you are traveling from and to, but if you can make a slight detour to take some of the scenic routes, try and fit it into your road trip’s itinerary. You can probably set your location in on an online route generator and gauge which course would be best for you. Go for one that saves time and gives you spectacular views on the way.
Ideally, it would be fantastic if you could go down ‘Route 66 or Mother Road, as most avid travelers call it. Traveling on Route 66 is somewhat of a great American rite of passage. If you ever get the chance, do consider it. It’s certainly something to check off of your bucket list and an excellent opportunity to see the beautiful American south.
Choose the right people to travel with
A road trip is supposed to be a fun experience, one you will remember for the rest of your life. It would be best if you were with the right people to make the experience worthwhile. Don’t even bother traveling with people you don’t get along with.
A cross-country road trip is a long journey. It takes days, even weeks, to complete. Being with the wrong people can ruin the entire experience.
Conclusion
These are some tips you can consider when planning a road trip across the country. Getting everything right the first time and planning the entire journey is a must. Sort out your stays, get the car ready and plan the trip to perfection.
Not to be too dramatic, but a trip across the country with your best friends really could be a life-changing experience and one you’ll remember forever. Still, it would be fantastic if you traversed the country solo and discovered yourself in the process! Wouldn’t that be an incredible story to tell your grandchildren?
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