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How to Plan a Road Trip with Google Maps + More Tips

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Wondering how to plan a road trip with Google Maps? You are at the right spot. In this post, we will be sharing a step-by-step guide to using Google Maps on your desktop and phone, plus other trip planning and itinerary tips. 

Note: These images/screenshots were taken from Google Maps and are used in this guide for illustrational purposes only.

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How to Plan a Road trip with Google Maps

Travel planning can get overwhelming. There are so many tools, apps, and resources out there. Truth be told, you only need 1-3 applications for travel inspirations, plotting an itinerary, and keeping track of all these activities

Of all the resources we use, Google Maps is the most powerful. And in this guide, we are sharing our secrets to crafting that epic road trip or weekend trip itinerary, to make the most of your vacation. 

This post contains a tutorial and additional tips to planning your road trip. 

Decide where you want to go on a road trip

So, your first step is to make a bucket list of places you want to see or the route you wish to embark on for your road trip. It might be a tough choice deciding on where to go. For inspiration, you can check out our itineraries , or use Pinterest (our second trip planning tool).

What to see on your Road Trips?

A good way to narrow down on the road trips, depends on your travel style. When embarking on a road trip, we prefer mountains and pristine lakes, with small towns (for breaks and affordable accommodation), tons of small museums, and sightseeing. 

For you it could be a road trip through major cities, or outdoorsy activities – from camping, hiking to water sports. 

Once you know where you want to go plan it on Google Maps

Google Maps are an amazing tool to plan and plot your road trip itinerary. You can create the map on your Google account (on the desktop/laptop) and then view it on your phone. You will need wifi or cell connectivity to view it. 

To plot the itinerary, open Google Maps, then save your starting point. Use the ‘direction’ option to get from road A to B. Repeat these spots to keep adding all the places you want to visit on your road trip (more details below).

Also, add your hotel, any attractions you wish to visit inside a city or national park. When you click the location on your phone or computer, you will see the opening hours, reviews if any.

Step by Step Directions to using Google Maps to plan a road trip and more 

Step 1: log in to your google account, and create a new map for your road trip.

Your first step is to log in to your preferred Google email account, and then go to the MAPS option (on your desktop/laptop). You can find the MAPS option by clicking on the circle near the account name. 

Or you can use this link to login.

When you open the link (and you are signed into the Google Drive account or your Gmail), click on the ‘3 dashes’ on the left hand side. This will open a list of options on the left hand side, as you can see below. 

Choose ‘Your Places’, to open an ‘Untitled Map’ or brand new map. 

When I choose ‘Your Places’, it shows up my previous maps that I had created (both private and public maps I created). 

Next, choose ‘Create Map’. The image is that of a new map. You can see options like ‘Add Layer’, ‘Share’, ‘Preview’ and ‘layers’.

Now it is time to customize and rename the Map. We use Google Maps to plan and plot our itineraries. For the purposes of this itinerary, let’s name it a Canadian Rockies road trip .

We renamed the map and using the ‘search’ functionality we can start adding attractions, hotels, restaurants, anything and everything we want to cover (and keep track of) in the upcoming road trip. 

Step 2: Adding attractions, hotels and restaurants to the custom Google Map for the road trip

Continuing from Step 1, you can use the search bar to add attractions and sites that you are interested in adding to your itinerary. As I mentioned before, I use Pinterest, and other search and photo platforms for inspiration.

You can color code the attractions to keep them categorised. We categorise them based on 

• Attractions: They include photo spots, iconic landmarks, museums, parks, etc.
• Food & Restaurants: For fast-food chains, groceries, etc.
• Hotels & Accommodation: It includes where we are planning to book accommodation

To use the option to change the colors, do the following

• Search the destination/attraction/landmark
• Add it to the map
• Then click on the options below the address to change color or the icons 
• You will see it change on the left hand side, in real-time

In the above image, we have listed all the restaurants in Banff, color coded by breakfast, lunch and dining. 

You can do the same by different categories (food, hotel, attractions, to name a few). You can create as many as you can inside of the single map layer. However, on a single layer, it is better to stick to 5-15, so that you can see the spots properly without any issues.

This method is extremely useful when you are in the planning or inspiration stage and want to keep track of your road trip bucket list!

Step 3: Use a second layer in Google Maps for Directions

We use the second layer inside of Google Maps to add directions. On the desktop it is easy to see what and which attractions are located close to each other, allowing you to manage your time and drive efficiently. 

Based on your interests, you can narrow down the sightseeing to the chosen few, and add restaurants and hotels. Google Maps will automatically choose the best route possible on your phone, when you are road tripping.

Again, using Canadian Rockies road trip itinerary, we use 2 layers

• The first layer is sightseeing
• The second one is for the directions layer
• You can add directions from the option listed under the ‘search bar’

When you click the three dots, you can see the exact directions and time/duration for getting from Point A to B.

In the example above, to get from Banff Avenue to Banff Sightseeing Gondola, it will take 12 minutes.

Step 4: Save the Google Custom Map, and access that on your smartphone

Now we have created the directions, and saved the sightseeing spots on the desktop using Google Maps. 

In order to view the same on your smartphone, you must download the Google Maps app, and ensure you have wifi or cell phone data on, to access it. Once you have the Google Maps downloaded on your phone, search for the route you have created on the desktop.

• From Google Maps App, choose ‘SAVED’ (located at the bottom of the phone screen)
• Choose the preferred map. In this example, we choose Canadian Rockies 
• When you choose the map, you will find the 2 layers we created (sightseeing and directions)

Note that you do need internet connectivity to check these routes. 

You can also use Google Maps, as a GPS too (with or without cell connectivity).

For use as GPS, ensure you have GPS settings on, on your phone (Settings > Google Maps > Location > select “Always”) .

Step 5: Use of offline Maps

As far as offline Google maps go, you can download a city map for general directions. Just make sure you have offline maps enabled and save it ahead of your road trip, as sometimes cell tower connectivity in parks and country-side may not be that great. 

In order to access the custom Google map we created – offline, use a secondary application – Maps.me to view the map.

It is an app that you can download on your smartphone. Once you are in, you can create a map list, and export the ‘saved file’ to import all the sightseeing spots and directions, and download it.

You can also download full city maps, and share with others.

How to plan a road trip? Additional Tips

Here are additional tips and factors to consider when planning your upcoming road trip

When are you planning to travel for your road trip?

Whether it is a city bound road trip or a journey through our national/provincial parks, it is important to make note of the seasons. Countries that experience all four seasons, you must be wary of road conditions, route closures, operating hours of sightseeing attractions and businesses. 

We love road tripping in the fall and the winter season here in Canada.  

• Summer – Summers are a great time to embark on a road trip. You can easily break for walks or short hikes in the summer, and also go camping as the weather is favorable, and most campgrounds open. If you are hitting the popular national parks and cities, ensure you start early to beat the traffic rush.
• Winter – Driving in winters can be tricky. Make sure to listen to local news alerts and winter driving regulations prior to starting your road trip. Also add in additional travel time due to the road conditions, poor visibility, etc. on certain routes. 
• Spring and fall – Fall is our favorite time to visit as the weather is still warm, and attractions not too crowded. Late spring is amazing for road trips too. Finding accommodation in cities and small towns during this time will be easy (and fewer crowds). One thing to keep in mind is that during crossover months the weather can be very tricky. 

Accommodation: Hotels, RV, Campervan, Camping

When you are road tripping, there are tons of options for accommodation. We like to plan our trips in advance, so we book hotels, Airbnbs and reserve campsites prior to hitting the road. 

Here are some of the accommodation options, 

• Hotels & Lodges : Whether it is a country-side, city or national park, you can book a hotel, lodge, an Airbnb or a cabin for your accommodation. Book them ahead of time, especially during peak seasons. 
• RV & Campervan: One of the popular ways to explore national parks, or enjoy slow travel while road tripping is on a campervan or an RV. Almost every city will have an RV renting place, from where you can book an RV and save money on hotel accommodation. It is also a nicer alternative if you do not own a lot of camping gear.
• Camping: If you are planning to camp overnight, ensure you reserve camp-sites when bookings open for the season. And of course, ensure you carry the right camping gear for your trip. You do not need to reserve for day camp sites (like picnics as part of your road trip), especially in provincial parks in Canada or state parks in the US. 

Road Trip Essentials 

Here is a list of items to pack for your road trip 

• Clothes & Comfortable shoes – Pack 2-3 sets of clothing, depending on the duration of your road trip. Comfortable shoes are a must, they are helpful while you are behind the wheel or taking rest stops (for a stroll) or out and about exploring
• Warm clothes (for winter) – While driving in Canadian winters, don’t forget warm clothing from a parka, warm socks, gloves, beanies. 
• Hand warmers are great little items to keep inside the car
• Travel Mug – Coffee and tea lovers, pack your travel mug, and refill it on the go!
• Water bottle – Super important, carry your water bottle. Stay hydrated!
• Healthy snacks – Munch them if you are hungry, whilst feeling light!
• Medications, hand cream, chapstick 
• Emergency car kit – An emergency car kit is essential should things happen on the road. You can create one from scratch or buy one pre-pack from Amazon
• Emergency first aid kit – Check the first aid kit inside the car (check for expiry dates). If you don’t have one, here is one that you can buy from Amazon
• Flashlight – Super handy if you are camping or even driving overnight
• Dashboard mount for phone or GPS – Go hands-free while you are driving. Use a dash mount to keep your phone or GPS for navigation. 
• Charging cables – Unless your car has cable-free charging, it is important to pack one for your road trip. Buy a car charger here
• Playlist – No road trip is complete without an amazing playlist. Save it on iTunes, or your iPod. 
• Cell-phone – Don’t forget your cell-phone. Stay connected with family, let them know where you are heading. Store the hotel or campsite contact information, plus roadside assistance number for emergencies. 
• Car freshener – Refresh your car, using a refresher. 
• Road trip games – License plate, sing-along, card games (for kids)
• Car & Travel insurance – Car insurance is essential, so is travel insurance if you are traveling from overseas. For the car, you can also secure insurance with the rental company when you pick up the vehicle

Getting Ready: Checklist prior to your trip

Just before you start for your road trip, preferably a few days prior, ensure you do a quick run-down and check your vehicle. 

If you are renting a car, the rental company usually takes care of the car maintenance. But it is your responsibility to take note of any dents/scratches to report to the company later, plus record the mileage. 

For your car, do the following a few days (to a week) prior to your embarking on the road trip

• Clean your car prior to your trip
• Get it to the servicing center, if needed
• Ensure your license/registration has not expired
• Inform friends/family about your trip
• Don’t forget navigation systems/Google maps (make them accessible from your car seat)
• Save all the information phone numbers, hotel and sightseeing addresses, tour passes, etc

Mistakes to avoid while road tripping

After embarking on many road trips in Canada and the USA, here are our hacks and tips,

1. Not taking ample breaks 

It is crucial to stop and take breaks on your road trips. In Canada, there are gas stations, convenience shops, and rest-stops where you should stop by to take a break. Washrooms are also free to use in gas stations here. 

2. Rushing, and not allowing enough time 

While road tripping, go slow and soak in the views. Stop for a break, if needed. Eat, stretch your legs – that is the fun for taking on road trips.

3. Follow a loose itinerary

To enjoy a road trip to the fullest, don’t plan everything to the T. Have a rough idea about the route, attractions covered, but don’t be afraid to stop at a place longer if you like. 

We do recommend not to drive away endlessly for safety reasons. It is important to know of the next stop, be aware of the gas tank level, and the time of day and not derail completely. 

4. Not booking hotels or camp reservations 

To avoid last minute hassles, don’t leave hotel and campsite booking for the last minute. Last minute could be expensive. And during peak seasons, you may not even find a vacant hotel room in most national parks.

Plus campsites are hard to get if you don’t reserve ahead of time.

5. Not grabbing snacks or good music

Healthy snack items are a good idea if you are not planning for a meal stop on your road trip. We keep health/nutrition bars, coconut water and some candies. Don’t forget water!

And a good playlist (or podcast) is crucial to keep everyone inside the vehicle happy and jolly!

Use of Google Maps for walking tours, and trip planning 

Other than using Google Maps for road trips, we extensively use it for planning our walks in Europe (while sitting here in Canada), and also map out distances, time/duration and other stops in the itinerary. 

When exploring Europe, we use a mix of public transportation, guided and self guided walking tours, and we walk a lot! 

So from arriving at the airport, to getting to the right terminal for trams or trains to our day to day itinerary we pin everything to Google Maps. 

I take a lot of screenshots of maps and directions and save them in a folder on my phone. I am a planner, and doing so allows me to visualize and be empowered as to which way do we need to go, how much time will it take to get there, money to budget, etc. 

In the above image, you can see how to get from the airport in Barcelona to the hotel via metro trains. It includes terminal information, duration, etc.

Or this one, which was how to get from La Rambla to Bunkers del Carmel. We follow this route, and this way we are not wasting any time (other than stopping for food, or photos here and there :))

And this is another one, with all the sightseeing spots, and directions (first and the second layer on the desktop). 

So, there you have it. This is our route planner for itineraries and road trips. Google My Maps have worked wonderfully well for crafting our adventures, and it is completely FREE to use. 

Don’t forget to create your own travel map with Google, and give it a try! Have questions, let us know in the comments below.

Other trip planning guides

• How to plan a weekend trip
• What to pack for a weekend getaway
• How to save and start a travel fund

Pin: Google Maps: Best Road Trip Planner

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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Are you ready for a Road Trip? Explore these eleven incredible cross-country road trip routes across the U.S.!

Pacific Coast

Border to Border

The Road to Nowhere

The Great River Road

Appalachian Trail

Atlantic Coast

The Great Northern

The Oregon Trail

The Loneliest Road

Southern Pacific

Classic American Road Trips

Pacific Coast Highway

Starting at the northwest tip of the United States at Washington’s Olympic National Park and remaining within sight of the ocean all the way south to sunny San Diego, this 1,650-mile, mostly two-lane road trip takes in everything from temperate rainforest to near-desert.

Highlights along the Pacific Coast Route: Olympic National Park (WA), Three Capes Loop (OR), Redwood National Park (CA)

Historic Route 66

The romance of traveling along historic Route 66 from where it starts in Chicago and ends in Los Angeles continues to captivate people around the world. If you’re looking for great displays of neon signs, rusty middle-of-nowhere truck stops, or kitschy Americana, do as the song says and “get your kicks on Route 66.”

Highlights along Route 66: Chicago (IL), Meramec Caverns (MO), Tucumcari (NM), Painted Desert (AZ), Santa Monica (CA)

• Barnes & Noble
• Books-A-Million
• Indigo (Canada)
• Powell's Books
• Apple Books

Running coast-to-coast from San Francisco to Ocean City, Maryland, “The Loneliest Road in America” is a 3,200-mile odyssey from sea to shining sea. US-50 passes through a dozen different states, four state capitals, and the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C.

Highlights along the Loneliest Road: South Lake Tahoe (CA), Moab (UT), The Million Dollar Highway (CO), Washington D.C.

Following in the footsteps of pilgrims and pioneers, US‑20 takes in a little of everything during its two-lane trek from Oregon’s rugged coast to the glorious sea and sand of Cape Cod.

Highlights along the Oregon Trail: Cannon Beach (OR), Fort Boise (ID), Yellowstone National Park (WY), Mt Rushmore & Carhenge (NE)

Dubbed the Great Northern in memory of the pioneer railroad that parallels the western half of the route, US‑2 is truly the most stunning and unforgettable, not to mention longest, of all the great transcontinental road trips.

Highlights along the Great Northern: Tumwater Canyon (WA), Glacier National Park (MT), Lake Michigan (MI), Acadia National Park (ME)

The Appalachian Trail

This driving route of the Appalachian Trail parallels the epic hike. From the top of New England to the heart of Dixie, it takes you through continuous natural beauty—without the sweat, bugs, or blisters.

Highlights along the Appalachian Trail: Mt. Washington (NH), The Poconos (PA), Shenandoah National Park (VA), Great Smoky Mountains National Park (NC)

Old Man River, Father of Waters, “body of a nation,” Big Muddy: By any name, the mighty Mississippi River cuts a mythic figure across the American landscape. Tag along from its headwaters in Minnesota to where it meets the sea in Louisiana via the GRR.

Highlights along the Great River Road: Main Street USA (WI), St. Louis (MO), Natchez Trace Parkway (MS), New Orleans (LA)

Starting at the Statue of Liberty and ending with a drive across the Overseas Highway to free-wheeling Key West, these almost 2,000 miles of roadway run within earshot—if not sight—of the Atlantic Ocean.

Highlights along the Atlantic Coast: The Statue of Liberty (NJ), Assateague Island National Seashore (MD), Savannah (GA), Cocoa Beach (FL)

Starting at Canada’s Jasper National Park, and winding down in the Sonora Desert, this route traverses some of the wildest and most rugged lands imaginable: mighty mountains, glaciated valleys, raging rivers, and two very different deserts.

Highlights along the Border to Border Route: Columbia Icefield (AB), Bitterroot Mountains (MT), The Extraterrestrial Highway (NV), Joshua Forest Parkway (AZ)

Once the only entirely paved route from Canada to “Old Mexico,” US‑83 cuts across America’s heartland and remains a must-do long-distance byway—transnavigating this broad, odd nation without once grazing a conventional tourist destination.

Highlights along the Road to Nowhere: Sitting Bull Memorial (SD), Nebraska Sand Hills (NE), Monument Rocks (KS), Paint Rock Pictographs (TX)

Following old US-80 and its contemporary equivalents takes you through more varied cultural and physical landscapes than you’ll find along any other cross-country route. From deserts to bayou swamps and Tex-Mex to barbecue, this route offers a full-flavored taste of America.

Highlights along Southern Pacific: The Desert View Tower (CA), Tombstone (AZ), Roswell (NM), Civil Rights Movement National Historic Trail (AL)

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The perfect itinerary for an epic USA roadtrip (48 states at once)

• Post author: Andrew D'Amours
• Post published: December 28, 2022
• Post category: Travel inspiration / Trip itineraries & destination discoveries
• Post comments: 23 Comments

Do you like roadtrips? They happen to be a very American tradition and we found the perfect itinerary to visit every state in the continental USA during 1 epic roadtrip. A great trip idea for those who have a lot of time but want to stay closer to home .

Personally, I love roadtrips and I hit the road as much as I can, despite also being an aviation geek: you can like both, right? What matters is traveling and seeing new places , no matter how.

So here are the maps and details of the 2 itineraries that allow you to see all the lower 48 states at once, depending on your travel preference.

Basics of the 2 epic USA roadtrip itineraries

The USA is a huge country, almost as big as Europe (it’s even larger than Canada when considering land area alone).

So the USA has a lot of variety in terms of landscapes, but even in terms of culture too (even if many who aren’t from the country don’t realize that).

If you aim to eventually visit every state, any 1 of these 2 itineraries is a great way to almost all of them at once. The only 2 states you’ll have left to visit after this roadtrip will be Hawaii and Alaska.

There’s a version for national parks and points of interest and a version for cities.

I’m on the quest to visit all 50 states myself (in addition to also visiting every country obviously), and I’m not doing too bad with 47 already.

But let’s just say it would’ve been much quicker to get to 48 at once with this roadtrip instead of having to do it over dozens of trips.

Here are the details.

48-state roadtrip – national parks/points of interest version

Here’s a map of the 1st itinerary.

It was conceived by American Ph.D. student Randy Olson, on  his blog , and it was done scientifically to optimize the routing: each stop represents a national park or a point of interest.

So you’re not just seeing every state, you’re seeing cool parts of every state (which sadly wasn’t our case in North Dakota during our very random 1200-miles-nonstop-in-2-days Flytrippers roadtrip across the Midwest just for fun).

Good times. Roadtrips always make for great stories.

Anyway, the itinerary has also been optimized to be as efficient a route as possible to see all 48 states, so you can rest assured you won’t be wasting any time.

If you only stop to sleep, you can complete this roadtrip in only 9 days, but we recommend taking at least a couple of weeks to explore all these places obviously.

And gas is significantly cheaper in the US in case you were wondering. You can start anywhere, it’s a continuous loop, and it passes through many spots near the Canadian border.

You can even take a shortcut from Michigan to Vermont through Canada, as the stop in Cleveland is only to keep Americans without a passport from crossing into the Great White North.

Here is the complete list of all 50 landmarks (48 states + Washington, DC + a bonus stop in California):

1. Grand Canyon, AZ 2. Bryce Canyon National Park, UT 3. Craters of the Moon, ID 4. Yellowstone National Park, WY 5. Pikes Peak, CO 6. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, NM 7. The Alamo, TX 8. The Platt Historic District, OK 9. Toltec Mounds, AR 10. Elvis Presley’s Graceland, TN 11. Vicksburg National Military Park, MS 12. French Quarter, LA 13. USS Alabama, AL 14. Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, FL 15. Okefenokee Swamp Park, GA 16. Fort Sumter National Monument, SC 17. Lost World Caverns, WV 18. Wright Brothers National Memorial Visitor Center, NC 19. Mount Vernon, VA 20. White House, Washington, D.C. 21. Colonial Annapolis Historic District, MD 22. New Castle Historic District, DE 23. Cape May Historic District, NJ 24. Liberty Bell, PA 25. Statue of Liberty, NY 26. The Mark Twain House & Museum, CT 27. The Breakers, RI 28. USS Constitution, MA 29. Acadia National Park, ME 30. Mount Washington Hotel, NH 31. Shelburne Farms, VT 32. Fox Theater, MI 33. Spring Grove Cemetery, OH 34. Mammoth Cave National Park, KY 35. West Baden Springs Hotel, IN 36. Abraham Lincoln’s Home, IL 37. Gateway Arch, MO 38. C. W. Parker Carousel Museum, KS 39. Terrace Hill Governor’s Mansion, IA 40. Taliesin, WI 41. Fort Snelling, MN 42. Ashfall Fossil Bed, NE 43. Mount Rushmore, SD 44. Fort Union Trading Post, ND 45. Glacier National Park, MT 46. Hanford Site, WA 47. Columbia River Highway, OR 48. San Francisco Cable Cars, CA 49. San Andreas Fault, CA 50. Hoover Dam, NV

These are all very enticing attractions, for the most part. It seems I’ve only seen 14 of those, so maybe I should hit the road again after all.

How about you? Tempted?

48-state roadtrip – city version

Here’s a map of the 2nd itinerary.

If you’re more of a city slicker, the map’s author has created a 2nd version that routes you through amazing cities instead.

It is slightly shorter but quite as impressive: it makes you go through the “Best City to Visit” in each state, according to TripAdvisor .

But you won’t have all the lower 48 states, unlike the other itinerary. That’s because no city in Vermont, West Virginia, or North Dakota made the top 400 cities to visit ranking, unfortunately. So plan on making a few extra detours if you want to hit all states at once with this version of the itinerary.

Here is the complete list of all cities:

• Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
• Wichita, Kansas
• Denver, Colorado
• Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Phoenix, Arizona
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• San Francisco, California
• Portland, Oregon
• Seattle, Washington
• Boise, Idaho
• Park City, Utah
• Jackson, Wyoming
• Billings, Montana
• Sioux Falls, South Dakota
• Omaha, Nebraska
• Des Moines, Iowa
• Minneapolis, Minnesota
• Milwaukee, Wisconsin
• Chicago, Illinois
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Louisville, Kentucky
• Columbus, Ohio
• Detroit, Michigan
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Manchester, New Hampshire
• Portland, Maine
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Providence, Rhode Island
• New Haven, Connecticut
• New York City, New York
• Ocean City, New Jersey
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Wilmington, Delaware
• Baltimore, Maryland
• Washington, D.C.
• Virginia Beach, Virginia
• Charlotte, North Carolina
• Charleston, South Carolina
• Orlando, Florida
• Atlanta, Georgia
• Nashville, Tennessee
• Birmingham, Alabama
• Jackson, Mississippi
• New Orleans, Louisiana
• Houston, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Branson, Missouri

I do a little better on this list, with 31 already visited. You can see I love cities. How about you?

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If you were looking for an excuse to go on a roadtrip, this is it. And since we always enjoy giving you more for your money, we think 48 states instead of only 1 or 2 is something you’ll enjoy!

What’s the coolest roadtrip you’ve ever been on? Tell us in the comments below.

See the deals we spot: Cheap flights

Explore awesome destinations : Travel inspiration

Learn pro tricks : Travel tips

Discover free travel: Travel rewards

Featured image: The itinerary (image credit: Randy Olson)

Original publication date: May 29, 2018

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Andrew D'Amours

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This post has 23 comments.

Hello Andrew, the PHD student suggests in the 1st Itinnerary that the one stop to make in Washington State is the Hanford Nuclear Reservation?! Flat out, that is a terrible idea. It is in the middle of nowhere, I am just shocked it’s mentioned. Out of all the beautiful and amazing places to see in such a diverse state as Washington, a Nuclear Site was chosen? Surely this student could have done so much better. Thank you for allowing comments.

Having been all around the Olympic Peninsula, I agree that’s there are better stops. But my understanding is that he really optimized for the quickest way to do all 48 and had to choose a point of interest that wasn’t too far off that optimal path, hence that choice (I think).

thanks for sharing this information with us.

I have taken a road trip from California to the the most northeastern part of theUS. west Quaby light house. it was my 1st trip across the us. .I seen so many amazing places.

Quite the drive for sure! Must have been epic.

Why do Americans always think the Statue of Liberty is in NY? it is in NJ. I’ve done road trips now that have taken in 39 states. Here’s a quiz to see how well you know the USA: Which state has only one syllable? Only one city has been name-checked on the moon. In which state is it? Which is the most Northerly of the contiguous states? In which state were Tennessee Williams and Elvis Presley born? Which was the last of the contiguous states to be admitted into the USA? Which four states all share a border with each other? Which state has the lowest population? Twelve cities are name-checked in “Get Your Kicks on Route 66” but only three states. Which? Which state has the longest name? Which two states have the most borders with other states? In which state is the geographical centre of the USA – and which one if you exclude Hawaii and Alaska? Which of the states of the USA has respectively the most Northerly, Southerly, Easterly and Westerly points?

The official Statue of Liberty address is Liberty Island, New York, NY, 10004.

Wow, these comments are very rude for no reason. Thanks for the article, maybe when I graduate from college I’ll consider hitting part of one of these itineraries.

“it’s a huge country (even larger than Canada when considering land area alone).”

Canada – 3.855 million mi² USA – 3.532 million mi² Where does this math fail you?

Where did reading fail you :P? It explicitly says “ when considering LAND area alone ” The quote you copied literally has a link provided under “even larger than Canada” and if you read that, it explains how Canada is only larger than the US due to water area being counted 🙂

There is no stop in North Dakota on the city version. You should stop in Fargo after Billings and before Sioux Falls

I’m 46 years old .. I have been to all 50 states and I’m 17 away from all 50 twice .. I have driven to 47 .. flown to Alaska, Hawaii and Washington..

Wow! That’s impressive :O

This is awesome

This is inspiring! Thank you for sharing!

“this roadtrip in only 9 days“ is extremely false statement. It is only 9 days if you are driving non stop, no breaks to even get out of your car, get gas, or actually see these places. From start to finish drive time it is 225 hours, 16 minutes = 9 days. Wow. Take some time to enjoy the view.

Yes, that’s what we said too 😛

Thanks for the tip 😊

Do you know the total distance of this itinerary? At what moment of the year doing this trip would be the best? Thanks!

Hi! It is 13,699 miles (22,046 km) for the landmarks itinerary and 12,290 miles (19,780 km) for the city version. You can even have the Google Maps links on the creator’s original post (I’ve reposted the link below). As for the timing, I guess it depends on your preferences, but I’d want to avoid that top half of the country (so half the itinerary) in the winter for sure! http://www.randalolson.com/2015/03/08/computing-the-optimal-road-trip-across-the-u-s/

Crappy itinerary! Does not even include Zion National Park… and so many stops in the North Eastern states?? Nobody cares about those places except maybe a couple of places.

As explained, the PhD student who built the itinerary wanted to have one stop per state, and there are many states in the North-East so that’s why there are many stops there. I agree that Zion is an iconic spot, but his goal was also to optimize a routing that was as short as possible so that’s why it’s billed as an itinerary to see all lower 48 states at once and not an itinerary to see *the best spots*. But those interested in doing this can definitely adapt it and add many interesting stops for sure 🙂

Curtis, you are crappy. Obviously this is meant as a guide that can be adapted to add spots. I think it’s awesome.

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The 11 Best Road Trips in the World

There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road on an epic adventure, especially on these incredible stretches of highway

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

I love a good road trip, especially in the mountains of Colorado, where I live. It’s when I do some of the best creative thinking, and it feels like the possibilities for exploration are endless. Should I hike a fourteener tomorrow? Cross the border into Utah to go mountain biking?

I scoured the globe to put together this list of the most stunning drives you could imagine, from the snowcapped peaks of Chilean Patagonia to the windswept west coast of Ireland. I’ve completed a handful, driven parts of many of them, and the rest are on my bucket list. I also chose these road trips for their proximity to adventure, and include essential details like the best hikes, beaches, and accommodations along the way. Buckle up.

The Dempster Highway to the Arctic Ocean, Canada

Miles: 550 Road terrain: Mostly gravel Best time to go: The Dempster Highway is open year-round, but traditional summer festivals in the Arctic towns and the aurora borealis viewing in winter are seasonal highlights.

Truly rugged and remote, this overland expedition traverses dramatic tundra landscapes, boreal forests, and mountain ranges en route to the Arctic Sea. Begin in the gold-rush outpost of Dawson City, Yukon, and load up on supplies—the unpaved gravel road is a known tire eater, so be sure you have a spare and a four-wheel drive car. From there the Dempster Highway heads north through the historic Klondike region, crosses the Arctic Circle, and enters the Northwest Territories, where you’ll have panoramas of what’s known as the polar Serengeti, a wide-open wilderness teeming with caribou, moose, and grizzlies.

Along the way, you’ll pass through Indigenous communities such as Tsiigehtchic, reached by ferry in summer after the snow melts. If you’re traveling during August, you can watch canoe races and listen to traditional music during Tsiigehtchic’s Canoe Days celebration. By the time you arrive in Inuvik, Canada’s largest community north of the Arctic Circle, you’ll have logged 457 miles. Pitch your tent or park your teardrop at Happy Valley Territorial Park (from $28), perched on a bluff overlooking the Richardson Mountains and the nation’s largest river, the Mackenzie.

Pick up the final stretch of the trip in town, the Inuvik–Tuktoyaktuk Highway, an 86-mile gravel road that winds past the Pingo Canadian Landmark, a collection of pingo (mounds of earth-covered ice) more than 100 feet high, and ends in the Inuit shorefront hamlet of Tuktoyaktuk.

Scenic Byway 12, Utah

Miles: 122 Road terrain: Paved Best time to go: Early spring and early fall

This expanse of highway connects Bryce Canyon to Capitol Reef National Parks , traveling through Dixie National Forest and the northern part of Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument. The whole thing could be completed in three hours, but given its proximity to so many perfect playgrounds for hiking, paddling, biking, and fishing, I suggest a four-day road trip. Bookended by Panguitch to the west and Torrey to the east, this designated All-American Road bisects multiple ecosystems,  from sage flats to slickrock deserts, and sleepy rural communities like Boulder, where you should stop for a meal at Hell’s Backbone Grill . The photo opps are endless, but Powell Point Vista, between the towns of Henrieville and Escalante, affords some of the best views of the area’s distinct Wasatch Limestone formations. If I could overnight in one place along the way it’d be Ofland Escalante , which has a drive-in theater, a pool, and a food truck (from $99).

The Romantic Road, Germany

Miles: 220 Road terrain: Paved Best time to go: Spring or fall

Germany’s Romantische Strasse, or Romantic Road, could be the backdrop of a Grimm’s fairy tale, with its turreted and crenelated castles, red-roofed villages, and lake-dotted countryside in the Alpine foothills. This scenic byway across Bavaria connects the baroque town of Würzburg with the pastel-hued town of Füssen. The former is home to the Unesco-designated Würzburg Residence, one of the nation’s most opulent palaces, while Füssen is five minutes from what many consider the route’s highlight, King Ludwig’s Neuschwanstein Castle , which was the inspiration for the palace in Disney’s Sleeping Beauty . If you want to stretch your legs, you can tackle the hike to Mount Tegel, located behind the castle, or take the cable car up and explore the trail network at the top.

Along the way you’ll pass plenty of beer gardens—the riverfront Lechgarten in the hamlet of Landsberg am Lech is a must-stop—the vineyards of the Franconia wine region (pick up a bottle of dry, white Silvaner), and spend a few hours rejuvenating in the historic spa town of Bad Mergentheim; at the Best Western Premier Parkhotel ($150), you can take advantage of the indoor pool, spa, and gardens.

The Explorers Way, Australia

Miles: 1,864 Road terrain: Paved (and remember, Aussies drive on the left-hand side) Best time to go: Australia’s fall, March through May The ultimate outback odyssey, the Explorers Way is a road trip through Australia’s Red Centre. Much of the drive follows the Stuart Highway, named after 19th-century explorer John McDouall Stuart, the first European to successfully traverse the continent from south to north. Stuart’s expedition took nearly a year, but two weeks is ample time to complete the journey from Adelaide in South Australia to Darwin in the Northern Territory.

I highly recommend detours to Uluru–Kata Tjuta National Park to stand in awe of the 2,831-foot-high monolith sacred to Aboriginals and to Litchfield National Park, teeming with waterfalls and wildlife like dingo and wallaby. Dedicate at least a day to explore the Aboriginal art galleries of Alice Springs, the Northern Territory’s second largest city and the approximate midway point of the route. When you reach the Top End, toast your trip with a bush negroni at Willing Distillery in Darwin or celebrate with a bush safari at Bamurru Plains Eco Lodge (from $2,425, all-inclusive), just northwest of Kakadu National Park, home to more than two dozen walking trails .

Atlantic Road, Norway

Miles: 22 Road terrain: Narrow, paved Best time to go: The coast is most dramatic in September and October

Norway has 18 designated national scenic routes, but the fact that the Atlantic Road was selected as the stage for the James Bond film No Time to Die is a testament to its wow-factor beauty. Officially known as Atlanterhavsvegen , this drive links the village of Kårvåg on Averøy Island with the fishing village of Bud on the mainland via an archipelago connected by eight low-lying bridges. Few roads bring you so close to the ocean: roll down your window and you’ll likely be kissed by sea mist.

Essential detours include the coastal path at Vevang to see Jan Freuchen’s “ Columna Transatlantica ,” a sculpture scattered across the rocks and heath-covered hills, and the glass-walled viewing platform at Askevågen, which affords spectacular mountain and ocean vistas. Strømsholmen Seasport, located between the towns of Kristiansun and Molde, offers scuba diving, fishing excursions, and wildlife safaris on the water. It also has four waterfront cabins that sleep up to ten people (from $55).

The Ring Road, Iceland

Miles: 820 Road terrain: Mostly paved, with some stretches of gravel Best time to go: Late spring or early fall

Stretch after stretch of otherworldly landscapes unfold along this famed 820-mile loop , also known as Route 1. It shows off vast lava fields, tumbling waterfalls, spouting glaciers, and bubbling geysers. You’ll want at least seven days to enjoy all the attractions and adventures along the way, and if you do the drive in May, June, or July, you can take advantage of nearly 24 hours of sun.

Most road-trippers start in the capital, Reykjavík, the city closest to Keflavík International Airport. You can tackle it counterclockwise or clockwise, but if you do the latter first, the scenery crescendos from pretty to jaw-droppingly gorgeous. If there’s one thing you shouldn’t miss, it’s a detour to the northern Troll Peninsula, which loops around the headlands past the end of the Skagafjörður fjord.

On the southeastern coast of Iceland , take time to explore Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon studded with icebergs, and nearby Diamond Beach, named for the brilliant chunks of ice that sparkle like gems against its black sands. The geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, just 20 minutes from the airport, are the perfect final stop. Or tack on an adventure—maybe kayak in a glacial lagoon or ride an ATV along the beach—with outfitter Icelandic Mountain Guides .

Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

Miles: 1,600 Road terrain: Narrow, winding, and paved (you’ll also driving on the left-hand side here) Best time to go: summer to take advantage of longer day-light hours

One of the longest coastal routes in the world, the Wild Atlantic Way hugs the Emerald Isle’s rugged and spectacular west coast for miles, from its northern terminus on the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal to its southern terminus in the town of Kinsale in County Cork. The route is broken into 14 stages, and you’ll want to budget a minimum of five days to complete it.

There are loads of opportunities to stretch your legs on untouched swaths of beach near soaring sea cliffs. Those at Slieve League jut up 1,972 feet at their highest point; follow the Pilgrim’s Path from Teelin village 1.5 miles to the tops, and after pop into town for lunch. You’ll have plenty of options, but I highly recommend the award-winning Rusty Mackerel pub (rooms are also available from $54). The iconic Cliffs of Moher, in the lunar-like Burren region, are one of the natural treasures of Ireland, with a five-mile (one-way) coastal walk that connects the charming villages of Liscannor and Doolin.

On Achill Island, explore Keel Beach, a nearly two-mile stretch of golden sand. When I visited, the waves were pumping and I rented a board and a thick wetsuit from Soundwave Surf School . If the water’s calm, you can rent a stand-up-paddleboard. If your final destination is County Cork, celebrate with a pint at Levis Corner House , a pub in Ballydehob that’s been run by the same family for a century.

Pacific Coast Scenic Byway, Oregon

Miles: 363 Road terrain: Paved Best time to go: Late spring, early fall, or winter

Most people associate the Pacific Coast Highway, or PCH, with California, but the storied road spans from Canada to Mexico. Some of the best lengths, in my opinion, are in Oregon, where the road skirts virgin beaches, craggy mountains, and rocky coves, through a series of quirky seaside resorts and sleepy fishing villages. You could zip along all of it in 10 to 12 hours, but five days is the better plan, stopping at the many parks and public lands along the route. Ecola State Park (sea stacks, tidepooling, wildlife-watching) and Oregon Dunes Recreation Area (whose sweeping sandy expanses are said to have been the inspiration for Dune’ s planet Arrakis) are both top of my list.

About 30 miles northwest of the city of Bandon is Cape Arago; this short detour off the byway takes you through the South Slough National Estuarine Reserve, home to more than 150 kinds of birds and many good hiking trails . In the town of Coos Bay, I like to overnight at the modern cabins at Bay Point Landing ($235). The next day, you can drive 24 miles east to the remote Golden and Silver Falls State Natural Area and hike 1.4 miles to the top of Golden Falls for an eagle’s-eye view of the cascading waterfall and old-growth firs. Schedule your journey for spring and winter and bring your binocs—you can often spot the blows from migrating gray whales as they surface off the coast.

The Garden Route, South Africa

Miles: 124 Road terrain: Paved Best time to go: June to December, when you can spot whales from shore

This ocean-hugging highway showcases the Western Cape’s outrageously beautiful beaches, lush forests, national forests, and abundant marine life. Just under two hours’ drive from Cape Town, the former fishing village of Hermanus Bay is the gateway for the Garden Route. I always stop here to take advantage of the excellent land-based whale-watching between June and December. Continue three and a half hours east on the N2 highway to the harbor town of Mossel Bay, the route’s official starting point. Spend some time trekking around before heading out on your drive; my favorite is the 2.5-mile out-and-back trail from Pinnacle Point to Oyster Bay.

Wilderness National Park , approximately midroute, is a great spot for birdwatching and kayaking and has accommodations that include campsites (from $20), cabins (from $50), and a bed-and-breakfast (from $90). A half-hour farther east is Plettenberg Bay, nicknamed the Saint Tropez of South Africa for its palatial beach homes. Just south is Robberg Nature Reserve , a nice picnic spot where you can observe seal colonies. Spend a day exploring Tsitsikamma National Park , which boasts a 50-mile-long shoreline and an interior with 500-year-old trees. Looking to burn off some energy after hours in the car? I suggest the Otter Trail. South Africa’s oldest hiking trail takes five days to complete and begins near the Garden Route’s eastern terminus at Storms River rest camp.

Queenstown to Milford Sound, New Zealand

Miles: 180 Road terrain: Paved, two-lane highway Best time to go: New Zealand’s fall, March through May, is perfect for hiking Described by Rudyard Kipling as the “eighth wonder of the world,” Milford Sound is big nature on steroids. The drive on the South Island from Queenstown along State Highway 6 (a.k.a. the Southern Scenic Highway) and then State Highway 94 (Milford Sound Highway) will get you there  in just over four hours, but slow down to marvel at the waterfalls and alpine lakes framed by mountains. Te Anau is the halfway point of the drive and an ideal place to overnight, refuel, and stock up on food as there are no services farther en route to the sound. The lakeside town is also the gateway to the glacier-carved wilderness of Fiordland National Park and the jumping-off point for the Milford Track, arguably one of New Zealand’s most famous Great Walks , so consider tacking on a few extra days.

The Carretera Austral, Chile

Miles: 770 Road terrain: Rugged, pock-marked dirt, requiring four-wheel drive Best time to go: Austral spring and summer, November to March  

Waterfalls tumbling from hanging glaciers. Forests of lengua trees and turquoise lagoons. Ancient marble caves and flamingo-filled lakes. The wild backdrop of Chile’s Southern Highway (Route 7) is an adventurer’s fantasy. Also known as the Carretera Austral , this road cuts through remote, mountainous wilderness in northern Patagonia. Set aside at least two weeks so you can take time to visit Queulat National Park and Pumalín National Park , both located along the route.

Puerto Montt, a bustling town in the Chilean Lake District, is your starting point. It’s considered Chile’s seafood capital, so attempt to score a table at Pa Mar Adentro Restaurant and try the caldo curanto , a traditional seafood stew, before starting your journey south.

Coyhaique, the capital of Chile’s Aysén region, marks the route’s midway point. Take a day here to trek the trails of Reserva Nacional Coyhaique, home to two beautiful lakes, Los Sapos and Venus. Campsites are available in the Casa Bruja section of the reserve ($5), or continue a couple hours south to General Carrera Lake and hole up at the family-run  Mallin Colorado Ecolodge ($170). The owners serve terrific farm-to-table meals and partner with local guides who lead kayak trips to the Marble Caves and treks across Exploradores Glacier.

Rumbo Sur Hotel ($190), in the isolated terminus town of Villa O’Higgins, is a comfy final base surrounded by hiking trails and glaciers. A 4×4 is recommended, as most of the road is unpaved.

Outside travel columnist Jen Murphy hates driving but will happily sit shotgun on any road trip. Last fall she navigated on a weeklong mother-daughter road trip through southwest Colorado.

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Scenic Drives

Hundreds of Miles of Views

Drive through Scenic Vermont

Vermont’s classic New England scenic routes are the meandering kind, taking drivers through historic downtowns and past bucolic farmlands. With plenty of places to stop along the way, including general stores, farm stands, and classic covered bridges, there’s much to discover. Gaps and mountain passes, with their winding curves and long-range scenery, wow at every turn. Vermont’s auto toll roads, lead right to the top of some of Vermont’s highest peaks, making summit views accessible by car. Byways and back roads are some of the best ways to explore the state.

Federally Designated

Vermont Scenic Byways

The best way to travel the state is by touring roads that meander through mountains and meet in valleys. Colorful routes connect historic downtowns and farms. Vermont’s 10 federally designated scenic byways range in length from 14 miles to 400; tour by car, motorcycle, or bicycle to discover trailheads, waterfalls, museums, boutiques, and more.

Mountain Passes and Auto Toll Roads

Gap roads wind through mountain passes, showcasing some of Vermont’s most rugged natural beauty and leading to incredible views at stops along the way. Auto toll roads mean you can see mountain views without ever leaving your car, including from Vermont’s highest peak.

Equinox Skyline Drive

A scenic drive to the summit of the highest peak in the Taconic range.

Smugglers Notch

Scenic Route 108 leads through Smugglers Notch State Park in the heart of Mount Mansfield.

Appalachian Gap

The App Gap winds through Camel’s Hump State Park, providing magnificent views of one of Vermont’s five mountains taller than 4,000 feet.

Lincoln Gap

The steepest paved mile in the U.S., the Lincoln Gap is easily accessible from Route 100 and offers a beautiful twisting drive.

Mount Ascutney Parkway

See spectacular views of the Connecticut River Valley from 2,800 feet by driving the 3.7 mile hand-built Mount Ascutney Parkway.

Burke Mountain Toll Road

Take in views of Vermont’s iconic Willoughby Gap from the top of Burke Mountain by driving up the Civilian Conservation Corps-built toll road.

Mount Mansfield Auto Toll Road

The views from almost 4,000 feet stretch for miles at the end of the Mount Mansfield Auto Toll Road.

Vermont Has Bridges Covered

Covered Bridges in Vermont

The covered bridges of the Green Mountains star on postcards, on social media and in stories about our state for a reason – they’re beautiful, historic and unique. Vermont is home to more than 100 covered bridges dating from 1820, boasting more covered bridges per square mile than any other U.S state.

The Stories of Vermont’s History

Roadside Markers in Vermont

Vermont’s 315 roadside markers, visible statewide, tell the stories of famous Vermonters, iconic places, and historic events. Pull over when you see a green sign to read about battles that happened on Vermont soil, the first person ever to photograph a snowflake, and stories that illuminate the buildings you pass.

5 Scenic Vermont Backroads to Travel

Forget the interstate. The backroads of Vermont offer travelers 360-degree views, centuries-old history, and a beautiful way to slow down.

More Ways to Get Around

Whether you want to visit all 251 of Vermont’s towns and cities, cruise the byways and back roads on a motorcycle, or simply make the most of your road trip experience, Vermont’s welcome centers have maps and trip ideas to help inspire your travels.

Motorcycle Vermont

Welcome Centers

Stay Safe Out There

Safe Driving Tips for Vermont’s Roads

Vermont’s roads are beautiful, and part of that beauty is how quickly conditions can change. In the winter, some mountain passes and gap roads close for the season. Some dirt roads are considered Class 4, which means they aren’t maintained in the winter for traffic, whereas roads classed 1 -3 are. In the winter, snow tires are strongly recommended, and it’s important never to drive too fast for conditions . As winter melts into spring, “mud season” means many dirt roads are soft and might not be safe to drive on until they solidify. With spotty cell service in parts of the state, your phone’s GPS may not work; order a free paper map as a backup. Vermont is home to hundreds of public electric vehicle charging stations .

Map Out Your Trip

Start planning for a memorable Vermont vacation with a free planning packet, including a road map ( perfect for your glove box ), an inspiration guide featuring some of the best things to do in the Green Mountain State, and information on scenic byways, food and farms, state parks, and more.

These Are The Most Electric Vehicle-Friendly Road Trips, According To E-Charging Maps

Y ou've invested in an electric vehicle (EV) or are interested in renting one for your next road trip. Fantastic! EVs are the way of the future, as demonstrated by ownership rates of EVs and hybrids in the U.S., which have increased from around a million in 2016 to well over 10 million in 2023. However, in parts of the U.S. and the world, electric cars are still a novel idea, thus taking a road trip could be difficult in regions with few charging stations. Lucky for you, we've researched the most electric vehicle-friendly road trips around the globe, so you can rest assured your next trip in an EV is stress-free.

We cross-referenced information from tools like  PlugShare EV Trip Planner and Open Charge Map  with Google results to find electric vehicle-friendly road trips in the U.S. and abroad. The routes and destinations included have numerous charging stations of all types, so you won't be required to own or rent a Tesla or another specific make to take these routes. And some of the destinations might surprise you, as we have four different continents represented, ensuring there's an EV road trip out there for everyone. From coastal routes and desert adventures to rural drives through the countryside, you'll enjoy scenic views on all of these electric vehicle-friendly road trips. 

Read more: 50 Of The Most Mesmerizing Places On Earth

The West Coast - United States

The classic American road trip conjures up images of the crashing Pacific Ocean on one side and palm trees and mountains on the other, both bathed in golden sunshine. Whether you're a West Coaster yourself or coming from a bit further afield, this iconic stretch of the U.S. is a favorite among travelers looking for a beautiful road trip. It also has some of the highest density of electric vehicle chargers in the U.S.

We examined both PlugShare and Open Charge maps, where a quick glance shows a high concentration of plug-ins all over the Left Coast. The charging stations dot all major highways: I-5, which runs from the Canadian border all the way to the Mexican border, Highway 101, which runs from the Olympic Peninsula in Washington state down to LA, and Highway 1, the quintessential coastal route most people envision for their multi-day oceanside drive (and often overlaps with the 101.) Grocery stores, gas stations, and parking lots allow plenty of opportunities to charge up while also providing amenities such as bathrooms and snacks.

The Côte d'Azur - France

The U.S. might be where EVs were first popularized, but Europe is quickly getting on board. Imagine lounging by the Mediterranean first thing in the morning, coffee in hand, and then you jump in the car to head to some low-lying mountains for a hike before enjoying a nice wander in a quintessential Provençal town in the evening. This is all absolutely doable on an electric vehicle road trip. 

France, a country better known for its extensive rail network, is also home to what DS Automobile claimed was Europe's best EV road trip in 2022 — the Côte d'Azur, specifically the stretch between Nice and Menton, just next to the Italian border. The region boasts some of the highest numbers of EV charging stations in Europe. While other areas might match the availability of charging stations, none do with the same frequency through such a scenic route. Additionally, this road trip features numerous attractions, tourist sites, and beaches. So, while some highways and roads on the continent might have similar numbers of vehicle chargers, those routes don't carry travelers through the South of France.

The Lakes And The Sea - Slovenia

This small and compact Balkan country has recently had a big push to make tourism more eco-friendly. It actively encourages visitors to try out an EV on its tourism website, and when you go to rent a car in Slovenia, you're always given the option to rent fully electric vehicles. That isn't the case in the majority of countries as of now. Beyond this push, the country -- particularly the route that stretches from Insta-famous Lake Bled and Vintgar Gorge, through the capital Ljubljana, and down to the coast near Piran -- is full of electric charging stations.

The route boasts some of the highest numbers of EV chargers in Europe and has the added bonus of being relatively short. Thus, you'll very rarely be on the road for more than a couple of hours, which means your charge will go further than say a long trip down either coast of the U.S. Ljubljana to Piran is only an hour and twenty-minute drive. You could be stuck in LA traffic for that long! Additionally, as part of Slovenia's push towards sustainability, more and more accommodation providers around the country are installing onsite charging stations every year. So, no matter where you go, you can enjoy one of Europe's still under-the-radar destinations, which is full of fantastic wine, stunning mountains, and adorable towns, driving an EV.

National Park Route - Utah And Colorado

National parks are typically synonymous with wilderness, sparse facilities, and places where you'll need to bring provisions with you. This is why portable, battery-operated chargers are so popular among the outdoorsy types for powering phones and other electronic devices. But alas, science and engineering have not yet invented a portable charger for our vehicles. But, before you rule out a tour of national parks in an EV, as stunning as the scenery might be, we're happy to report that at least two parks in mountain-filled states are easily circumvented in electric vehicles: Utah and Colorado.

The area around Arches and Canyonlands National Park in Utah is full of stations to recharge your EV battery. In Utah, you'll find many charging points along Highway 191, 70, and 46 as you head across the state border. Once you cross into Colorado, you can rest easy knowing that many national forests and mountain highways are also full of places to charge up. This includes the routes southeast to the Mesa Verde and Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve,  Highway 34 up to Rocky Mountain National Park , and Highway 92 to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. Pack your hiking boots, and a map, and enjoy the mountain views of the West!

The Atlantic Road - Norway

Norway is a great place for a road trip. The roads are well-maintained, pit stops are plentiful, and as of the past few years, you can take a Norwegian road trip in an electric car. Thanks to tax breaks from the government and other incentives, EV ownership has skyrocketed in Norway. To keep up with demand, numerous charging stations have been put in place along some of its most eye-pleasing routes, including the Atlantic Road.

The Atlantic Road is located in the far west of the country, where you'll drive across bridges with the ocean on either side, take in views of out-of-this-world fjords, and pass through charming traditional fishing villages. The availability of charging stations does not initially look very dense, but the short drive times mean you'll likely only need to charge once or twice. Although, with amazing views at every turn, you might be compelled to do so a bit more often than actually necessary.

New England Scenic Routes - Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, And Massachusetts

The West Coast isn't the only one embracing the future of travel. If you fancy a New England fall road trip or just want to explore "Stars Hollow" lookalikes, it's now easier than ever to do so in an EV. The upper right of the U.S. has been very successful in constructing charging stations. This is true both in large cities like Boston and Hartford, as well as along picturesque routes through smaller towns and more rural destinations.

The Vermont Route 100 is awash with travelers come September and October -- and for good reason. It is an explosion of red, orange, and yellows come fall. The Kancamagus Scenic Byway, which passes through New Hampshire and the White Mountains, and the Old King's Highway to Cape Cod are both tourist favorites. And we can't forget the coastal highway along Maine's rugged beaches. If any (or all) of those sound appealing and you want to take an electric vehicle, don't worry. You'll find that nearly every city, town, and tourist spot along these routes features EV charging stations. 

North Coast 500 - Scotland

At just over 500 miles in total, this circular coastal route in the north of Scotland is a traveler's dream. You'll start in Inverness, home to the famous castle of the same name and numerous archeological sites. One is never far from either (a castle or ruins) in this part of Europe. You don't necessarily need to stick to the route for the entire time, as some of the best parts of visiting this part of the country are random side roads and adventures. In fact, the North Coast (NC) 500 isn't a singular highway or road like many other popular road trips around the world. The route is actually a compilation of various streets around the Highlands, with fantastic views at every turn.

That's all well and good, but how, you might be wondering, EV-friendly is the NC 500? Very. It's been named one of the best road trips in Europe by DS Automobiles. This is thanks, in part, to the more than 40 chargers sprinkled throughout the 500-mile route. And similar to Slovenia, charging spots at accommodations is slowly becoming the norm.

Bruges To Amsterdam - Belgium And The Netherlands

A region best known for a love of bikes would, of course, be conscientious when it comes to eco-friendly car trips. The path from fairytale Bruges to the bursting-with-life Dutch capital is full of charging ports. So, you'll never be far from somewhere where you can extend your car's battery life. The two countries are already geographically compact, and the most direct route from Bruges to Amsterdam is only 345 miles, about the same as traveling from Vancouver, B.C., to Portland, Oregon.

You could technically do the entire road trip in a day, thanks to a short distance and plenty of places to stop up and charge. However, we recommend taking your time, as the most direct route skips some of the best stops. Park your EV at a charging station for the day to explore Ghent, a larger and less-touristy version of Bruges, stroll through Antwerp, one of Belgium's youngest and hippest cities, and don't miss Rotterdam en route to Amsterdam. This route is ideal if you want to see the two countries but prefer a car for the flexibility that trains can't always provide.

Route 62 - South Africa

It might be most often associated with safaris and wine-tasting, but South Africa offers epic road trips . And one that should be at the top of any electric-vehicle driver's list is Route 62. A study by Compare the Market revealed that you'll only need three and a half charges to make this lovely drive from the Western to the Eastern Cape. That may seem like a lot, but with nearly 30 chargers along the way, you'll be well covered.

You also don't need to worry about missing out on any of the top sites or things to do. There are 30 wineries (one for every charging port if you're counting) on Route 62, ensuring you'll get top grapes to pair with the sweeping landscapes. Additionally, you'll enjoy stops not included on the more popular Garden Route. These include the Cango Caves (the largest in Africa), the Cogmanskloof Pass through some of the prettiest mountains on the continent, and the ostrich farms around Oudtshoorn.

Great Ocean Road - Australia

This well-trodden and pretty, down-under drive attracts millions of visitors each year and lives up to its name. The 150-mile road stretches from Torquay (a little over an hour west of Melbourne) to Allansford in the state of Victoria. Australia's Great Ocean Road has many fantastic stops and is full of amazing beaches that are perfect for suntanning and surfing. You'll also find the 12 Apostles rock formations, Loch Ard Gorge, and the London Arch, among other sites along the way. And thanks to recent pushes by the Victorian state government, the number of charging stations around the region, particularly on the ever-favored Great Ocean road, has increased substantially in recent years. With a recent announcement of more charging stations to be constructed in 2024, this route should become even more EV-friendly.

Many travelers undertake the journey in a single day, which is possible with most EVs due to the short length. However, for a more enjoyable trip, we recommend that you allow for a few days to really get the most out of the experience. Find a charging station near a beach to surf, or learn more about the area's history at the many sites and memorials while your car charges.

Ruta 40 - Argentina

As one of the longest countries in the world, Argentina is perfect for a road trip. A favorite route among travelers, the Ruta 40 (Route 40) is now possible in an electric car. For decades, the road presented precarious itineraries for drivers due to the infrequent availability of amenities, including gas stations. However, as EVs have grown in popularity, Argentina has implemented more charging stations around the country. And, luckily for tourists, that includes along the famed Ruta 40. 

There are plans for more to be put in over the next few years, so the road will just become even more EV-friendly with time. And there aren't any plans (that we could find online) to build more gas stations, as fossil fuels continue to be phased out in the decades to come. So, it may actually be a smarter move to rent an electric car for this Argentinian road trip in the future. 

Amalfi Coast - Italy

This delightful Italian coastal route has been referred to as the most EV-friendly in the world. And one glance at a charging station map demonstrates why this is the case. There are many places to charge your vehicle, and the short route means you won't need to charge very often. While beautiful, this famous stretch of coastline isn't for the faint-hearted driver (or those who tend to identify more as a "passenger princess"), as the route features steep drop-offs and narrow lanes. 

Once you look past the rainbow-colored homes on the cliffside and the electric blue water, the actual routes along the Amalfi Coast can be pretty harrowing. But, if you're no stranger to drives that have the potential to induce stress or you're simply up for the challenge (or have a travel partner who is), the Amalfi Coast is truly a dream destination. Even better, it can now be explored in an electric vehicle.

Methodology

We began with a simple Google search of "the most EV-friendly road trips" around the world and in the U.S. This provided an initial list that we used as a base for research. We then examined these routes on multiple charging station maps, such as Pluge Share and Open Charge Map, to confirm that charging points were readily available on road trips that repeatedly came up in articles.

The plug-in maps also inspired us to write up trips that hadn't appeared in initial research, such as New England and the national parks in Utah and Colorado. Finally, we took into account the distance of each road trip compared to the number of charging stations available along the way. This ensures all the routes we listed featured enough places to stop off and recharge within a reasonable distance between towns and sites.

Read the original article on Explore .

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10 Things Southerners Always Bring On A Road Trip

If we’re getting in the car, you better believe these things are coming with us.

A great Southern road trip is as much about the journey as it is reaching the final destination. Whether it’s a jaunt to the beach to kick off summer or an annual trip to Grandma’s house for the holidays, most Southern families can’t make it a year without packing up the car for a long drive . There’s something nostalgic and even a little sweet about spending uninterrupted time in a small space with the ones you love—even when they're driving you up the wall. When Southerners go for a ride—be it for three hours or eight—there are a few things you can bet they’ll be toting along. Keep reading to find out 10 things Southerners always bring on a road trip.

Homemade Snacks

Like popcorn at a movie, everyone knows the most important part of a road trip is the snacks. And while Southerners love a bag of salt and vinegar chips or granola bar as much as the next person, they know the only proper way to snack on a road trip is with homemade goodies. Search any Southern car, and gallon bags of homemade snack mix , cheese straws , fire crackers , and puppy chow are most likely on board, too.

A Flashlight

Southerners are nothing if not prepared, so they wouldn’t dare embark on a drive of any significant length without having a few “just in case” items. Number one on most Southerners' list: a flashlight in case of car trouble. Bonus: It comes in extra handy on a camping trip or a for late-night crab hunting on a beach vacation.

Peanuts and Coca-Cola

This classic combo may seem like a strange pairing, but there’s something about pouring a packet of salted nuts into an ice-cold bottle of Coca-Cola that makes perfect sense on a road trip. It’s salty, sweet, and as easy to slurp down while keeping one hand on the wheel.

A Paper Map

Yes, most of the time we use navigation apps or in-car GPS system to do the directing, but Southerners just can’t seem to quit paper maps . Cell phone towers don’t reach everywhere just yet, so a trusty Rand McNally is always good to have as back up. There’s something to be said for finding your path the old-fashioned way.

A Sack Lunch

Fast food stops are for the faint of heart. Real road warriors know that a sack lunch is the way to go. We guarantee mom’s pimiento cheese or chicken salad sandwich tastes better than anything you can find under the Golden Arches. Bonus points if your lunch is packed safe and sound in an Igloo cooler.

A Good Book

When the conversation stalls and all the kids have dozed off, it’s the perfect time to do a little reading. Paperback or e-reader, a good book to get lost in is essential road trip packing.    

Jimmy Buffet’s Complete Disc Set

If you’re on a Southern road trip, the soundtrack has to be Jimmy. A playlist queued up with favorites from “Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes”; “Son of a Sailor”; and “Songs You Know By Heart” is not only a must for Parrot Heads, but a favorite for all. Though this larger-than-life Southern icon passed away earlier this year , his spirit will live on forever via our road trip playlists.

A Cozy Blanket

This one’s a little self-explanatory, but no less important. Southerners are all about comfort on a long car ride, so blankets, pillows, pajama pants, and sleeping accessories of all shapes and sizes are always along for the ride.  

An Extra Dose of Patience

Even when a chorus of “Are we there yets?” resounds from the third row, well-seasoned road trippers maintain a sense of calm. These days—and this drive—won’t last forever, so it’s best to enjoy the road you're on.

A Sense of Adventure

The best part of a road trip can be all the surprising stops along the way. Whether it’s a pop-up produce stand, a gas station for a quick boiled peanut break, or a quirky roadside attraction , Southerners know that sometimes unexpected pitstops can lead to the best memories and be well worth the delayed ETA.  

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M25 closure: Everything you need to know ahead of motorway closing in both directions again

The UK's busiest motorway is shutting in both directions again next month across a seven-mile stretch between junctions 9 and 10 and diversions will be in place. Here's what you need to know about how bad traffic could be, the alternative route and why it's happening.

News reporter

Tuesday 16 April 2024 13:16, UK

Drivers are set to face significant delays as a section of the M25 shuts in both directions next month for the second time.

There was a two mile-long traffic jam when the motorway's first-ever planned daytime closure began on 15 March between junctions 10 and 11 in Surrey - though many drivers followed advice to steer clear of the area until it reopened late on 17 March, meaning long hold-ups were widely avoided .

This time it's junctions 9 and 10 that will be shut both ways and the stretch of road is two miles longer than last time.

Those set to be those travelling to, from and between the UK's two busiest airports, Heathrow and Gatwick, are expected to be affected as National Highways has warned it expects long delays.

But is traffic expected to be worse than it was the first time, what are the diversion routes this time and will there be more closures after this one?

Here's everything we know so far.

When is the closure and how long will it last?

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• Travel chaos

It's from 9pm on Friday 10 May until 6am on Monday 13 May and will see a seven-mile stretch between junctions 9 and 10 closed - two miles more than in March.

What are the diversion routes?

Though there were fears of severe congestion on diversion routes along A-roads ahead of the first closure, many drivers followed advice to avoid the area, meaning long hold-ups were avoided.

But National Highways senior project manager Jonathan Wade has warned the next shutdown will be "far from a repeat of the previous closure" as the diversion routes are "longer and will be different for over-height vehicles and all other traffic".

Here are the 19-mile diversion routes, which use the A3 and the A243:

Diversion route clockwise for all but over-height vehicles: Leave M25 at junction 8, A217 (Reigate). Follow the A217 London, Sutton, (A240) Kingston. After 3½ miles turn left onto the A240 Epsom, Kingston. After 3 miles at the Esso roundabout, turn right onto the A24 (A240) Kingston. Continue for 3 miles and turn left onto the A3 Portsmouth, Guildford. Continue for 9½ miles to the M25 and re-join the motorway at junction 10.

Diversion route anticlockwise for all but over-height vehicles: Leave M25 at junction 10 to join the A3 towards London. After 9½ miles at the Hook interchange leave the A3 turning right onto the A240 Epsom, Reigate. Continue for 3 miles to the Esso roundabout and turn left onto the A240 Reigate. Continue for 3 miles then turn right onto the A217 Reigate, M25. After 3½ miles turn left to re-join the M25 motorway at junction 8.

Here's a map showing the closed road and diversion route:

Satnav warnings

Drivers are again being urged to ignore satnavs and only follow official diversion routes to prevent causing gridlock.

Mr Wade said: "Drivers listened to our advice last time which reduced motorway traffic levels by over two-thirds and meant delays were limited.

"Our advice again is please only travel if absolutely necessary and make sure you give yourself extra time if you do choose to use the M25."

Ahead of the last closure, he warned: "There's probably a greater risk of congestion by people just doing their own thing and thinking they can perhaps beat the signs and find a shorter or quicker route.

"That will cause further congestion on some of the key junctions so please avoid doing that if at all possible."

National Highways senior project manager Daniel Kittredge said: "If people move away from diversion routes that we prescribe, it creates additional issues in different parts of the road network.

"Stick on the prescribed diversion route. It's going to be more suitable for your journey."

How bad could it be?

It's only the second scheduled daytime all-lanes shutdown on the M25 since it opened in 1986, so the full extent of possible delays is not entirely clear.

The stretch between J9 and J11 is normally used by 4,000 to 6,000 vehicles in each direction every hour from 10am until 9pm at weekends.

And because the stretch of closed road is longer this time, the diversion route is also 7.5 miles longer than the one last month.

It's not only drivers who feel the effects; business owners along the diversion route during the last closure said they were forced to make cuts to their services in anticipation of traffic.

Airport warnings

People due to travel to Gatwick and Heathrow could be affected by the closure. Sky News has contacted both airports for comment on the latest disruption.

Last time, Heathrow Airport advised passengers planning to use the affected route to allow for extra time before their flight.

"Passengers using public transport should also be aware that The Airline (between Heathrow and Gatwick) and RailAir (RA2), will be running amended timetables over this weekend, please check with your operator for the latest information," their statement said.

In March, a London Gatwick Airport spokesperson said: "Passengers driving to the airport are advised to check diversion routes before they travel and allow extra time for potential delays.

"Gatwick's train station is well-connected and is a great alternative option for people travelling to the airport this weekend."

Read more from Sky News: Luxury hotel offers free night's stay if it rains too much 'Absolutely gross' maggots force flight to make U-turn

Why is it happening?

Government-owned company National Highways said the action is necessary to enable a bridge to be demolished and a new gantry to be installed as part of a £317m improvement project.

National Highways says the project will increase the number of lanes and make it easier to enter and exit the M25 at junction 10, which is one of the UK's busiest and most dangerous motorway junctions.

"These improvements will bring long-term benefits to drivers who pass through this stretch of the M25, not to mention pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders who will also see positive changes in the area," Mr Wade said.

Is this the last closure?

No - it's the second of five planned full closures between the junctions. The other dates have not yet been confirmed.

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National Highways has said it intends to close the M25 for three more weekends this year.

"There will be no weekend closures in June," it said in a statement.

"The remaining closures will take place between July and the end of 2024. We will be in a position to announce the date of the next closure as soon as the May closure is over."

The project began in summer 2022 and is expected to last three years in total.

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