The Ultimate American Road Trip: How to Plan the Perfect US Tour
The United States has no shortage of breathtaking drives, from the Pacific Coast Highway to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Before you hit the road, decide on your route based on:
- Scenery: Do you want ocean views, mountains, deserts or wide open plains?
- Activities: Are you looking to hike national parks, visit historic sites or drive scenic byways, learn more here?
- Timeframe: How many days or weeks do you have to explore?
Longer trips allow for more flexibility and detours. Some popular options to consider:
- The Pacific Coast Highway (California, Oregon): Ocean views, beaches and redwood forests for 2-3 weeks.
- Route 66 (Texas to California): Iconic drive along the “Mother Road” in 1-2 weeks.
- Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia to North Carolina): Rolling mountains and quaint towns for 1-2 weeks.
Once you’ve narrowed it down to a few options that fit your interests and schedule, research highlights along the route and how many miles you can reasonably cover each day. Then you’re ready to start planning the details of your American road trip itinerary!
Packing Essentials for Your US Road Trip
When embarking on an epic American road trip, packing the essentials is key. Here are some must-haves to throw in your suitcase:
Clothing
Pack for a range of weather conditions and activities. T-shirts, shorts, jeans, sweatshirt, jacket, sneakers, hiking boots, swimsuit, pajamas—you’ll want options for layering. Don’t forget accessories like sunglasses, hat, scarf and comfy socks.
Toiletries
Bring toilet paper, wipes, hand sanitizer, toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, soap, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, medications, bandages, pain reliever, motion sickness pills…the list goes on. Ziploc bags will keep things organized and prevent spills.
Tech gear
Don’t leave home without your phone charger, portable charger, headphones, camera, extra memory cards and a charging cable organizer. A GPS device, dash cam or WiFi hotspot can also come in handy for navigation and connectivity.
Snacks and drinks
Long drives mean fueling up on lots of snacks. Bring granola bars, nuts, jerky, dried fruit, crackers, cookies and whatever else tickles your taste buds. Don’t forget a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated in the arid American West.
Entertainment
Load up your phone or tablet with an audiobook, podcasts, music playlists and some games. Bring cards, puzzles or small toys for backseat fun. A travel journal, map or guidebook will enrich the experience.
With some strategic packing, you’ll have everything needed for an unforgettable all-American road trip adventure. Now get out there and explore this beautiful country of ours!