In the vast tapestry of American travel, road trips have always held a special place. Routes like the iconic Route 66, the scenic Pacific Coast Highway, and the historic Natchez Trace have long been on the bucket lists of adventure – seekers. There’s an indescribable thrill in loading up the car with all your essentials and setting off into the unknown, the open road stretching out before you like a ribbon of endless possibilities.
In the past decade, the rise of affordable flights lured travelers to far – flung destinations across the globe. However, 2020 brought a seismic shift to the travel industry. With the need for social distancing and a preference for staying closer to home, road trips have experienced a renaissance. As we tentatively emerge into a new era of travel, buoyed by the roll – out of vaccines and a glimmer of hope, planning a fun and safe road trip has become a top priority.
My husband, Pete, and I are no strangers to the allure of the open road. We’ve embarked on several epic road trips, from driving coast – to – coast across the United States, witnessing the diverse landscapes transform from the sun – kissed beaches of California to the bustling streets of New York. We’ve also explored the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Canadian wilderness. Through these adventures, we’ve gleaned valuable insights into what it takes to plan and pack for a successful road trip.
Research: The Foundation of Your Adventure
Every remarkable road trip begins with research. While it might seem like a chore, it’s actually an exciting opportunity to build anticipation and uncover hidden gems. Start by creating a Pinterest board or a Trello list and invite your family members to contribute. It’s a wonderful way to get everyone involved and share ideas.
I always turn to tourism boards first. They’re a treasure trove of local information, offering insights into any notices, restrictions, or special events in the area. But don’t stop there. Dive into the world of social media. Check out the destination’s hashtags on Instagram and Twitter. You’ll find local bloggers who can provide personal recommendations, from the best local diners to off – the – beaten – path hiking trails.
In this new age of travel, safety and cleanliness are top concerns. Look for hotels, restaurants, and retail businesses that display the Ecolab Science Certified™ seal. Establishments with this seal are committed to a higher standard of cleanliness. They use Ecolab’s hospital – grade disinfectants and food – contact sanitizers, approved for use against the COVID – 19 virus. Their employees are trained on current public health and food safety procedures, following CDC guidelines. Plus, they’re subject to independent audits by Ecolab specialists to ensure everything is up to par. This way, you can feel confident and at ease in the places you choose to eat, stay, and shop.
Mapping Your Route with Google Maps
Gone are the days of getting lost on long drives. Thanks to technology, and in particular, Google Maps, planning your road trip route has never been easier. With the ability to plan and save multi – stop routes, you can plot out your entire journey in advance. You can save up to nine stops, including your starting point.
To create a multi – stop route, simply open Google Maps on your device. Enter your starting location and then click on the “Add destination” button. You can search for addresses, points of interest, or even specific businesses. As you add each stop, Google Maps will calculate the best route, taking into account traffic, distance, and estimated travel times. It’s a great way to ensure you make the most of your time on the road and don’t miss out on any must – see attractions along the way.
Packing: Essentials for the Open Road
Clothing
The key to packing clothing for a road trip is versatility. You’ll want to bring a mix of comfortable, casual wear for driving and exploring, as well as some slightly dressier options for dining out or visiting more formal attractions. Think t – shirts, jeans, shorts, and comfortable shoes for the day – to – day. But also pack a nice pair of slacks, a blouse or button – down shirt, and some dress shoes if you plan to visit any fancy restaurants or cultural sites.
Don’t forget to consider the weather at your destination. If you’re heading to a cooler climate, pack a few sweaters, a jacket, and some warm socks. If it’s going to be hot and sunny, bring lightweight, breathable fabrics, a hat, and sunglasses. And always pack at least one raincoat or umbrella, just in case.
Food and Drinks
Bringing your own food and drinks on a road trip can save you money and ensure you have something to eat when you’re in the middle of nowhere. Pack a cooler with sandwiches, fruits, vegetables, and drinks. You can also bring some non – perishable snacks like granola bars, trail mix, and chips. And don’t forget to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially if you’re traveling in a hot climate.
Entertainment
Long drives can get boring, so it’s important to bring some entertainment. Pack a few books, magazines, or an e – reader. You can also bring a deck of cards, a travel game, or some podcasts to listen to. If you’re traveling with kids, bring some toys, coloring books, or a tablet loaded with movies and games to keep them occupied.
Safety and Emergency Kit
Safety should always be a top priority on a road trip. Pack a first – aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any other medications you might need. Also, bring a flashlight, a spare tire, a jack, and a toolkit in case of a flat tire or other car problems. It’s also a good idea to have a roadside assistance plan in place, just in case.
A road trip is not just about the destination; it’s about the journey. With careful planning and packing, you can ensure that your road trip is a memorable and enjoyable experience. So, fuel up the car, load up the essentials, and get ready to hit the open road. Adventure awaits!
