Road Trips
Planning a great road trip, from routes and budgets to getting your car ready, staying safe and making sure you're properly insured.
Planning a road trip
Planning a road trip
A road trip gives you freedom to explore at your own pace, and it can be one of the most affordable ways to travel, especially for families and groups. A little planning makes the difference between a stress-free drive and a breakdown on a remote highway.
How to plan a road trip covers choosing a route, setting a budget, getting your car ready, what to pack, staying safe and checking your car insurance before you go.
Your car needs to be in good shape for long drives; see our car maintenance schedule. For winter road trips, read the winter driving safety checklist and how to winterize your car.
National parks make classic road trip destinations; see how to plan a visit to a US national park. For packing, see how to pack light, and for unexpected costs along the way, an emergency fund is worth having before you set off.
Common questions
Check tire pressure and tread, oil and other fluids, wipers, lights and the battery, and get any maintenance that's due before you leave. Pack an emergency kit with jumper cables, a flashlight, water, snacks and a first aid kit.
Add up fuel or charging for your planned miles, lodging, food, parking, tolls and attractions, then add a cushion of 10% to 20% for surprises. Free route-planning apps can estimate fuel costs and tolls.
Many personal car insurance policies extend coverage to rental cars in the US, and some credit cards add rental coverage. Check your policy and card benefits before you decide whether to buy the rental company's coverage, and check separately for trips abroad.