Planning a Road Trip: Itineraries, Destinations, & Tips

Planning a road trip? Lucky you!

Road Trips symbolize the ultimate travel freedom and adventure. Not to mention, the classic American vacation all began with a car and the open road!

As someone who’s driven cross country a few times and in countries around the world, road-tripping holds a special place in my heart. It’s in the sights and sounds you pass by where you can truly get a sense of a place.

Whether you’re planning an epic itinerary or a weekend getaway, there’s no shortage of places for you to explore, from National Parks to smaller towns with lesser-known outdoor, historical, and cultural gems.

On this page, find everything you need to bring your road trip visions to life, from road trip itineraries & inspiration to important tips and gear you’ll want to pack.

No matter where you’re heading, rent a vehicle that’ll keep everyone comfortable and that’ll handle the driving terrain. All my rental car searches start with Kayak because it’s easy to compare prices across a range of companies and car types.

Popular Road Trip Itineraries

angels landing Zion National Park
Utah National Parks

Discover natural beauty around every turn as you travel from Arches National Park to Zion National Park.

Oregon Coast Scenic View
Spectacular Oregon Coast

Discover one of the most gorgeous natural landscapes in the Pacific Northwest and all of the United States. The combination of Pacific views, jagged rocks, and forest greenery will take your breath away!

Tempe Arizona Desert Botanical Gardens
Amazing Arizona

Explore the deserts and cactus in the south. Then, head north to pine forests and hidden-gem National Monuments.

Colorado Road Trip on the way to Colorado Springs
Colorado Foliage

Travel from north to south chasing blazing fall foliage while exploring National Parks, scenic byways, & quaint towns.

Road Trip Destinations

best hikes in shenandoah national park
Shenandoah NP & Virginia’s Blue Ridge

Just south of D.C, explore the scenic beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains & discover historic towns like Roanoke, Virginia.

Grand Canyon things to do
Grand Canyon
National Park

The world-famous Grand Canyon needs no introduction. Make time to finally see the national treasure.

things to do in Wilmington Delaware
Wilmington, Delaware

A revitalized downtown & riverfront awaits! Discover historic New Castle, world-class gardens & estates, & the Brandywine Valley.

Road Trip Tips

Road trip Mistakes to Avoid

I’ve made my fair share…so you don’t have to!

Travel Road Trip Car
How to Save Money on Rental Cars

Don’t pay more than you need! I’m sharing 11 rental car hacks!

Road Trip Packing List Essentials
Travel -Tested Road Trip Packing List

Spontaneity & road trips go together…Still you’ll want to pack the essentials.

Road Trip Gifts

Need the perfect gift for that special someone on your list who loves to road trip? This well-rounded list has something for everyone, from road trip essentials to thoughtful gift ideas to show you’re truly honoring someone’s passion.

Road Trip Gifts - Road to Monument Valley
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