16 Mistakes to Avoid on a USA Road Trip
16 Mistakes to Avoid on a USA Road Trip
Planning a road trip across the USA can be an exciting way to see the country, but it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls if you’re not careful. We’ve gone across the USA a couple of times, road tripping from Nashville to Hawaii! That was quite the adventure!
But from underestimating how long it will take to travel between cities to missing out on the local flavors, there are several mistakes that can make your trip more stressful and less enjoyable.
To help you have a smoother journey, we’ve compiled a list of 16 common missteps to avoid. By keeping these tips in mind, you can focus on enjoying the vast, beautiful landscapes and rich cultural experiences that the USA has to offer.
1. Underestimating Distances
When planning a road trip in the USA, one of the most common mistakes is not realizing just how vast the country is. Many travelers find themselves spending more time driving than enjoying the destinations.
It’s important to map out your route ahead of time and be realistic about how much ground you can cover each day. Consider the fatigue that long drives can bring, and try to keep daily travel to a manageable number of hours. This will leave you enough time to explore and relax at each stop.
2. Ignoring Car Maintenance
Before hitting the road, it’s essential to give your car a thorough check-up to avoid any mechanical issues during the trip. Check your tires, brakes, engine oil, coolant levels, and make sure all lights are working.
It’s also super important to check everything when coming out of national parks like Death Valley. High temperatures or arid conditions can affect your car negatively. Ignoring these checks can lead to breakdowns that could have been easily prevented, turning your adventure into a hassle.
3. Not Planning Rest Stops
Driving for hours without a break can be tiring and dangerous. It’s important to plan rest stops every couple of hours to stretch your legs, refresh yourself, and switch drivers if you’re traveling with others. This not only helps in reducing fatigue but also makes the trip more enjoyable.
4. Skipping Local Attractions
Often, travelers focus on reaching their main destination and overlook the small towns and roadside attractions along the way. These places can provide unique local experiences and a welcome break from the monotony of the highway. Next time, consider stopping at that quirky museum or local park; it could be a highlight of your trip!
5. Driving During Rush Hour
Navigating through big cities during peak traffic times can be a nightmare. It’s best to plan your route so you avoid major cities during their rush hours. Alternatively, use this time to explore the city rather than trying to pass through it, or take a break until traffic eases.
6. Not Booking Accommodations
Assuming that you can always find a hotel room at the last minute is risky, especially during peak travel seasons or around major events. Book your accommodations in advance to avoid the stress of having nowhere to sleep.
7. Ignoring Weather Conditions
Weather can significantly affect road conditions. Before and during your trip, keep an eye on weather updates and be prepared to change your plans if necessary. Driving through a storm or snow can be dangerous, and it’s often safer to wait it out.
8. Overpacking the Car
While it’s important to be prepared, overpacking can lead to a cluttered and uncomfortable vehicle. Pack smartly, bringing only what you need and making sure everything has a place. A less crowded car makes for a more pleasant drive.
9. Skipping Scenic Routes
Interstates can be the quickest way from point A to B, but they aren’t always the most scenic. Consider taking the road less traveled. Scenic routes might take a little longer but the views and experiences could be worth the extra time.
10. Ignoring Local Cuisine
Eating at familiar chain restaurants is easy, but you might be missing out on the local flavor. Try regional dishes and local favorites. It’s a great way to experience the culture of the areas you’re visiting.
11. Not Bringing Entertainment
Long stretches of road can get boring, so having some form of entertainment is crucial. Bring along a good mix of music, audiobooks, and games to keep everyone entertained. This is especially important if you’re traveling with kids.
12. Neglecting to Share Driving
If you’re traveling with other capable drivers, share the driving responsibilities. Driving long hours without a break can lead to fatigue, which is dangerous. Switching drivers can keep everyone fresh and alert.
13. Underestimating Fuel Needs
In some parts of the USA, gas stations can be few and far between. Always keep an eye on your fuel gauge and fill up before it gets too low. It’s better to stop for gas early than to risk running out in a remote area.
14. Not Using a Map
While GPS systems are incredibly helpful, they aren’t infallible and can sometimes lead you astray. Having a physical map or a printed route can be a great backup. Plus, looking at a map can help you find interesting stops along your planned route that you might otherwise miss.
15. Disregarding State Laws
Traffic laws can vary significantly from one state to another. Make sure you’re aware of the differences, such as speed limits, cellphone use, and seatbelt laws. This can help you avoid tickets and fines, and more importantly, keep you safe on the road.
16. Not Planning Gas Station Locations
This one might be surprising but essentially, there are certain areas in the USA where gas stations become rare. In these areas, it’s easy to find yourself out of gas and stuck with no solution. Some of these locations include Death Valley National Park. So make sure to plan out for gas before taking 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.