If you are looking to plan a unique and interesting ‘trip of a lifetime’ that your family is sure to never forget, consider a road trip across America.
From vast open plains in Wyoming, Minnesota and Iowa to the old growth forests of Washington, Oregon and California. From the white sand beaches of South Carolina, Louisiana and Florida to the towering mountains of Colorado, Utah and Idaho. From the haunting red deserts of Arizona, New Mexico and Nevada to the quaint seaside charm of Maine, New Hampshire and Rhode Island. There is a vastness to the varied landscapes of the USA that make this the ideal destination for a romantic adventure or family holiday.
While there are quite literally thousands of different routes possible across the ‘lower 48,’ you first need to narrow down the ideal itinerary for your needs. Once you have determined what is most important to you and your family, you can begin planning a road trip that will change the way you see America – and the world – forever.
What is your objective when you travel across the US?
When you begin planning this trip, you need to ask yourself ‘what is my ultimate objective? What do I want to get out of this road trip?” Are you all about exploring a small area (maybe one or two states) and really getting to know the region, or are you all about covering as much ground as possible, spending only one or two days in each place you pass? Determining this will help you to begin planning your road trip – and will help you get the most out of your holiday.
If you want to visit every state in the contiguous USA, this insane map shows you the best way to see every single state in the union on one mental road trip.
What are your interests?
Are you a craft beer nerd? Head to Portland, Oregon and San Diego, California. Prefer monuments, historical tours and old cities? You’ll probably prefer a tour that includes Philadelphia, Washington DC and New York City. Have a fascination with the antebellum South? Plan your route through Georgia, Louisiana and Tennessee. Looking to practice extreme sports along the way? You’re likely to enjoy Colorado and Utah.
Aligning your route with the things that interest you the most is much more likely to result in the perfect road trip. Remember – your road trip should be so much more than simply time spent in the car. You should plan to enjoy the sights and attractions in each place you visit along the way, as this will enrich and expand your experience.
Don’t be afraid to stay within a seemingly small radius
Remember – many of the American states are larger in area than the entirety of the United Kingdom! While it may be tempting to plan a grand tour that visits a dozen states in 10 days, remember that that is akin to touring the same number of European countries in a short period of time. A meaningful, interesting and overall fantastic road trip can take place solely in one state.
When in doubt, you can always traverse Route 66
The old Route 66 will never let you down – as the old song says, “over 2000 miles all the way.” Running from Chicago to Los Angeles, this legendary road will take you through the very heart of the US in a diagonal line that allows you to take in the best – and strangest – that the country has to offer.
A Route 66 holiday might just be the US road trip of your dreams, filled with neon signs, mid century kitsch, and old school Americana. Stop into a malt shop, fill up at a retro gas station and like so many before you, “get your kicks” on Route 66.
No matter what route you choose, your road trip is likely to be a life changing holiday. Friendly people, delicious roadside diners and classic tunes on the radio – hit the road, jack!
The most important thing to remember for your trip stateside is that you’ll need a good travel insurance policy. Medical assistance in the USA can be very expensive, so proper medical insurance is vital. And make sure your insurance covers your driving. If you need any help or have any questions, give our travel team a call on 01243 784000.
