10 Unexpected American Road Trip Customs That Foreigners Find Peculiar
10 Unexpected American Road Trip Customs That Foreigners Find Peculiar
Taking a road trip across the United States can be an eye-opening experience, especially for visitors from abroad. The vast landscapes and long highways lead to some unique road trip customs that might seem quite peculiar to those used to different travel norms. From the snacks we pack to the places we stop, here’s a look at ten American road trip customs that often surprise foreigners.
1. Extensive Planning
In America, road trips require careful planning due to the vast distances involved. If you don’t map out your routes with precision, you might find yourself driving for hours with nowhere to stop. This thorough planning ensures that you can reach your destinations efficiently and enjoy your travel without unnecessary delays.
2. Car Games
One fun way Americans make long drives more enjoyable is by playing games like ‘I Spy’ and ’20 Questions’. They help pass the time and add a playful element to the journey. These games are especially popular among families, making the miles fly by with laughter and bonding as each person takes their turn to stump the car with clever clues or questions.
3. Roadside Attractions
American road trips often include stops at quirky and sometimes bizarre attractions. From the world’s largest ball of twine to the famous Corn Palace, these unique spots offer a fun break from the monotony of the highway and provide great photo opportunities that are distinctly American.
4. Drive-Thrus
The convenience of drive-thrus is a staple on American road trips. Not limited to just fast food, many places offer drive-thru services for coffee, prescriptions, and even banking. This allows travelers to manage errands without leaving the comfort of their car, saving time and keeping the trip moving smoothly.
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5. Overnight Roadside Camping
In the U.S., it’s not uncommon to see travelers sleeping in their vehicles along the roadside or in rest areas. Unlike many countries where you might need to find designated camping spots, this informal style of overnight stay is accepted and often practiced, providing a simple and cost-effective way to rest.
6. Snack Hoarding
Americans tend to stock up on a large variety of snacks for their road trips. This habit of ‘snack hoarding’ ensures that everyone in the vehicle has plenty of options to choose from, ranging from chips and candy to healthier alternatives like fruits and nuts, making every moment of the journey delicious.
7. Frequent Photo Stops
Taking photographs at state lines and welcome signs is a popular practice among travelers in the U.S. These photo ops at the borders of states provide fun memories and bragging rights, as each picture marks the progress of the adventure across the country.
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8. Large Beverage Coolers
Bringing oversized coolers filled with an assortment of beverages is typical for American road trips. These coolers keep drinks cold for hours, ensuring that no matter how hot the journey gets, there will always be a refreshing drink on hand to quench your thirst.
9. Driving Straight for Hours
The vast, open roads of America can stretch endlessly, allowing for hours of driving through repetitive landscapes. This aspect of American road trips can be mesmerizing as the scenery slowly changes, offering a meditative experience unique to these long stretches of highway.
10. Truck Stops as Hubs
Truck stops in America are more than just places to refuel. They serve as community hubs where travelers can shower, grab a meal, and relax. These stops provide essential amenities for long-haul drivers and road trippers alike, making them a crucial part of the American road trip experience.
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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.