10 Tips On How To Plan A Road Trip For Beginners
Here are 10 tips on how to plan a road trip for beginners: One of the best things about road trips is that they can be tailored to fit your specific needs.
Whether you want to travel far and see new places or take a leisurely drive through your own backyard, there’s a perfect road trip for you.
The first step is figuring out what kind of trip you want to take. Do some research on destinations that interest you and make a list of must-see spots.
Personally, I recommend visiting a national park. Once you have an idea of where you want to go, it’s time to start planning the details.
This includes mapping out your route, figuring out where you’ll stay and what attractions you’ll visit along the way.
If this all feels like too much work, don’t worry – there are plenty of resources online that can help make planning your road trip easier than ever. With just a bit of preparation, you’ll be ready for an adventure that’s uniquely yours!
What Is So Hard About Planning A Road Trip?
Planning a road trip is more than just getting in the car and hitting the open road.
It’s about mapping out your journey, finding the perfect rest stops and attractions, and deciding where to rest your head at night.
Whether you prefer hotels, camping, or Airbnb, choosing accommodations can be stressful.
And don’t forget about the possibility of unexpected roadblocks like construction detours, car trouble, or bad weather.
Despite these challenges, the excitement of exploring new places and experiencing freedom on the open road makes it all worth it.
With proper planning, a road trip can be a recipe for amazing memories and unforgettable adventures.
Step-by-Step Instructions to planning A Road Trip For Beginners
Planning the perfect road trip can seem overwhelming, but following this guide will make the process much easier.
This guide will take a lot of the stress out of planning a successful road trip. Remember, you can change this up wherever best fits your needs. After all, this is your adventure.
1. Where Do You Want To Go?
Planning a road trip can be an exciting but overwhelming process. One of the first steps in the planning process should be deciding on a destination.
This decision will shape many aspects of your trip, from the duration and route to budget and packing essentials.
Do some research on your potential destinations to determine whether they have attractions or activities you want to see, as well as things like weather conditions and seasonal closures that may impact your trip.
Once you have chosen a destination, you can begin mapping out your route and making accommodations along the way.
Of course, it’s important to keep in mind that things may not go exactly according to plan.
But having a clear destination in mind will help to guide your journey and ensure that you make the most of your road trip experience.
2. Plan Your Road Trip Route
When planning a road trip, one of the most important steps is mapping out your route.
It can be helpful to first determine your destination and any potential stopping points along the way.
The best way to do this is to use Google Maps.
Next, research potential routes and compare them based on estimated travel time and any notable attractions or points of interest.
Once you have selected a route, consider adding in well-reviewed rest stops or restaurants for breaks during the journey.
Don’t forget to factor in things such as construction or inclement weather that could potentially delay your trip.
By taking a few months to plan your route beforehand, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable road trip experience.
3. Where Are You Going To Stay?
When planning a road trip, one of the most important decisions to make is where you will stay overnight.
It’s important to consider factors such as cost, proximity to attractions and amenities, and safety.
Staying at a family or friend’s house can often save money and provide a more personalized experience.
Motels and hotels offer convenience and typically have amenities such as on-site breakfast, swimming pools, and laundry facilities.
Camping allows for an opportunity to experience nature while also potentially being the most budget-friendly option.
Whichever accommodation you choose, be sure to make reservations ahead of time to avoid high prices or fully booked rooms during peak travel seasons.
Overall, it’s up to personal preference and the specific needs of your group when deciding where to stay on your road trip.
4. Will You Be Driving Straight Through?
When planning your road trip, another important decision to make is whether or not you want to drive straight through to your destination.
There are pros and cons to each option.
Driving straight through can save time and money on lodging, but it can also lead to exhaustion and increased risk of car accidents.
On the other hand, taking regular breaks for rest can ensure that you arrive at your destination safely and well-rested, but it may take longer and require extra expenses for accommodations.
Ultimately, the best choice will depend on factors such as how far you are traveling, the number of drivers available, and personal preferences.
Regardless of what route you decide to take, be sure to plan ahead and always prioritize safety.
5. Be Sure To Fill Up The Gas Tank While You Can
When planning a road trip, it is important to consider the availability of gas stations along the route.
In some remote areas, it can be over 100 miles before the next gas station.
This means that if you wait until your tank is running low, you could end up stranded on the side of the road.
To prevent this possibility, it is wise to fill up whenever possible, even if there is still a decent amount of gas in the tank.
In addition to avoiding those potential emergencies, filling up early can also help save money since gas prices tend to be higher in rural areas.
So when embarking on a road trip, remember to always top off your tank when given the opportunity. Your future self will thank you.
6. Book Lodging Directly Through The Website
When planning a road trip, it can be tempting to use a third-party booking website in order to save money and streamline the process.
However, using these websites comes with some risks.
They have been known to accidentally double-book rooms or cancellations, leaving travelers without accommodations.
In addition, many activities and excursions require advance reservations, and booking through a third-party website may not guarantee a spot.
A much safer option is to book directly through the lodging or activity provider’s own website.
This guarantees that your reservation will be secure and there will be no confusion when you arrive at your destination.
It may take some extra time and effort to book directly, but it will certainly pay off in avoiding any unwanted stress or complications during your trip.
7. Find The Perfect Vehicle For Your Travels
When it comes to planning a road trip, the vehicle you choose can make or break your experience.
It’s important to select a car or SUV that is reliable and won’t leave you stranded on the side of the road.
A good fuel economy is also a must, as gas prices can add up quickly on a long journey.
And of course, plenty of space for both luggage and passenger comfort can go a long way toward ensuring an enjoyable trip.
So before hitting the open road, be sure to carefully consider which vehicle will best serve your needs on your journey.
It may mean opting for a rental or borrowing from a friend, but in the end, it’s worth taking the time to make the right choice. Your trip will thank you for it.
8. Plan For Unintended Stops
Planning for unintended stops on a road trip can prevent unnecessary stress.
When determining where to stop, consider the needs of everyone in the car – bathroom breaks, meals, stretching legs.
It can also be helpful to find rest stops or gas stations with amenities such as seating areas and restaurants.
Don’t forget to research roadside attractions in the area as well.
These planned stops add elements of surprise and adventure to the journey, while allowing for necessary breaks along the way.
Planning these stops in advance will result in a smoother road trip experience for everyone involved.
9. Bring Entertainment If You Are A Passenger
Road trips can often mean long hours in the car, and finding ways to entertain passengers can make the journey more enjoyable for everyone.
One option is to bring along a portable DVD player and a selection of movies.
For younger children, coloring books and small toys can provide much-needed distraction.
In addition, music is always a great way to pass the time; whether it’s playing songs from a playlist or tuning into a favorite radio station, it can liven up the atmosphere in the car.
Lastly, don’t forget about the age-old classic: road trip games.
Bringing along travel versions of popular games such as Scrabble or Boggle can lead to hours of entertainment and maybe even some friendly competition.
By planning ahead, road trips can be fun for all passengers involved.
10. Expect To Spend More Than Planned
Planning a road trip can be exciting, as you anticipate all the potential adventures that lie ahead.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that unexpected expenses are almost guaranteed to come up during the journey.
Whether it’s an unanticipated detour or a last-minute decision to check out a highly-recommended attraction, having extra funds set aside can prevent any surprises (or financial stress) along the way.
It’s also important to consider options for accommodation and dining.
While it may be tempting to splurge on dining at a high-end restaurant, budget-friendly alternatives like picnics or finding nearby farmer’s markets can sometimes offer just as enjoyable – and memorable – experiences.
By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be better prepared for any additional expenses on your road trip – and still have plenty of funds left for future adventures.
Key Considerations For Successfully Planning A Road Trip
When planning a road trip, it’s important to consider the route, vehicle maintenance, accommodations, and emergency preparedness.
First and foremost, carefully map out your route to ensure that you have an idea of where gas stations and rest stops are located.
It’s also crucial to make sure your car is in good working condition before embarking on a long journey – this includes checking fluid levels, tire pressure, and having necessary car equipment such as a spare tire and jumper cables.
Additionally, it’s important to plan ahead for lodging or camping options along the way.
Finally, it’s wise to bring along an emergency kit with items such as a first aid kit and roadside hazard light in case of any unexpected circumstances. By taking these considerations into account, you’ll be able to have a safe and enjoyable road trip experience.
Taking It To The Next Level: How To Plan The Road Trip Of A Lifetime
When it comes to road trips, the traditional approach is to plan everything out in advance – where to stay, what activities to do, even what route to take.
However, for those seeking a truly adventurous and spontaneous experience, it can be more exciting to forego these plans altogether and let the open road lead the way.
Without a strict schedule or agenda, there’s more freedom to stop at unexpected attractions or detour off the beaten path.
Plus, not knowing exactly what lies ahead adds an element of excitement and uncovering new experiences along the way.
Of course, it’s important to have some kind of destination in mind and be prepared with necessary supplies and accommodations.
But by leaving room for spontaneity, a seemingly simple road trip can turn into the adventure of a lifetime.
Alternative To Road Trips
When it comes to summer vacation, a road trip may seem like the obvious choice.
However, planning and executing a successful road trip can be stressful and expensive.
A great alternative is a staycation – exploring the attractions and events in your local town or city.
Not only is it more budget-friendly, but it can also be just as exciting to discover new things in your own backyard.
As the saying goes, “the best things in life are free.”
That can definitely ring true for staycations – visit local landmarks or parks, attend free community events, or spend time exploring independent businesses in your town.
And who knows – you may even find a new favorite restaurant or hike that you never knew about before.
So instead of hitting the open road this summer, consider trying out a staycation for some fun and relaxation closer to home.
Wrapping Up And My Experience With Planning Road Trips
I’ve personally planned about 5 road trips in the last 5 years and for the most part everything stats the same. The destination has changed but the initial planning doesn’t.
I’ve found that having more than 1 driver is a huge help. It gives both people the chance to look around and see what they normally wouldn’t.
Another thing I’ve found very helpful is stopping to smell the roses. Long stretches on the road can be tiresome. Stop and enjoy a restaurant or lookout, even a rest stop. The first time I’ve ever seen the true night sky without any light pollution happened because a passenger had to use the restroom. Who would have thought a life-changing moment would have happened while stopping for a pee. Separating the journey into multiple parts helps a ton.
The best road trip I’ve ever been on was to Rocky Mountain National Park. A lot of people make the journey, but we did it without any planning. We just knew we were going to see the park and that was that. So 20 hours of driving later, the mountains were in sight and euphoria washed over me. The sight is incredible. The biggest problem was finding a place to stay but thankfully Colorado has a ton of campgrounds to choose from. We even got to stay at an amazing place called Lavern St Johnson Campground.
Weather your planning a road trip or winging it, stop and take in the scenery. Enjoy the freedoms of the open road. There is so much to see out there. Enjoy every moment!
