10 Surprising US Road Trip Habits For The British
10 Surprising US Road Trip Habits For The British
Every country has its unique set of traditions, especially when it comes to road trips. In the United States, these traditions can seem quite unusual to visitors from abroad, particularly the British.
From dining at a roadside diner to playing car games, American road trip traditions create a special experience that many find fascinating. Here’s a look at ten of these traditions that might leave the British scratching their heads.
1. Drive-thru everything
In America, convenience is king, and nothing says ‘convenient’ quite like the plethora of drive-thru services available. From banks to pharmacies and even wedding chapels, the U.S. takes drive-thru culture to the next level.
For a Brit, the idea of grabbing a coffee, withdrawing cash, or even picking up dinner without leaving the car might seem odd, but it perfectly encapsulates the American love for efficiency and ease.
2. Roadside diners
Roadside diners are a staple of the American road trip landscape. These quirky, often retro-styled eateries offer a homey feel with comfort foods like burgers and milkshakes. For British travelers, the charm of these diners might be unexpected as they serve up not just meals but a slice of American culture and history, often filled with friendly locals and walls adorned with memorabilia from bygone eras.
3. Motel stays
Motels, the roadside hotels, are synonymous with American road trips. They provide a no-frills, economical place for travelers to rest between long stretches of driving.
Unlike in the UK, where inns and B&Bs are more common, these motels offer a unique charm with their neon signs and often thematic rooms, making them an integral part of the road-tripping experience.
4. Tailgating before sports events
Tailgating is an American tradition where people gather in the parking lots of sports stadiums to grill food, drink, and socialize before a game. It’s a pre-game ritual that turns every match into a party.
British spectators might find this peculiar, as sports events in the UK typically involve heading straight to the venue without the parking lot festivities.
5. Visiting national monuments and parks
The U.S. is home to an impressive array of national monuments and parks, each offering breathtaking natural beauty. Americans often incorporate visits to these sites into their road trips.
For Brits, the sheer scale and number of these protected areas are surprising, as they offer a chance to explore diverse landscapes from towering forests and deserts to volcanic mountains.
6. Cross-country drives
The vastness of the United States makes cross-country drives a popular undertaking. Covering multiple states and sometimes spanning coast to coast, these long-distance travels offer a way to see the country’s expansive landscapes.
While the UK can be driven across in a matter of hours, the idea of a multi-day car trip is a whole different level of adventure in the U.S.
7. Route 66 nostalgia
Route 66, also known as the Mother Road, holds a nostalgic place in American culture, symbolizing freedom and the open road. This historic highway, running from Chicago to Santa Monica, is famous worldwide and often featured in road trip itineraries.
The romanticization of this route might be puzzling to Brits, but it represents a significant part of American history and pop culture.
8. RV camping
Recreational vehicles, or RVs, are a popular choice for many American road trippers. These mobile homes allow travelers to bring their accommodations with them, providing a comfortable and flexible way to explore.
While caravans are common in the UK, the scale and facilities of American RVs are on another level, often equipped with amenities like kitchens and bathrooms.
9. State border photo ops
Taking photos at state borders is a fun tradition for many American travelers. These photo opportunities let road trippers mark their progress and capture memories as they enter new states. The concept might seem simple, but it’s a playful way to document a journey across the diverse United States.
10. Car games and playlists
Long drives can get tedious, so Americans have mastered the art of car games and curated playlists to keep the mood upbeat. From ‘I Spy’ to singing along to a road trip playlist, these activities help pass the time and create a fun atmosphere. British travelers might find it amusing how such simple games can turn into hours of entertainment on the road.
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We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.