How to Plan the Perfect Road Trip

While we all might dream of jumping behind the wheel and setting off into the sunset to see where the open road takes us, the reality for most is that planning the perfect road trip takes a little more foresight. There’s the matter of the ideal route, finding great places to stay and that all-important question of where to stop for lunch. Maybe we’re a little biased, but we think that we’ve found the perfect ingredients for the great American road trip. 

Less is More

Bixby Bridge

Epic cross-country road trips have their time and place, but for the most part we recommend taking it slow and immersing yourself in one region at a time. Chances are you’re traveling because you want to explore and discover a new part of the world. You won’t be able to truly get a sense of the place if all you see is it flashing past your car window. Our trips pair just the right amount of time with the right number of destinations so that you can slow down, maximize your time and really soak in the places you’re visiting.

Make Connections

Scenery and views are a big part of experiencing a new destination but what really gives a place its personality are the people who live there. It’s these connections that we remember long after the trip has finished. Don’t just go to a jazz bar in New Orleans, share a drink with the band. Don’t just go wine-tasting in Napa, meet the family behind the winery. Don’t just rush through Utah’s national parks, connect with the land in a deeper way with an experienced bushcraft guide.

Focus on the In-Between Places

Venture off the beaten path

You’ve heard it plenty of times: Life isn’t about the destination, it’s about the journey. And road tripping is a mode of travel uniquely placed to allow exploration between your main destinations. That includes the 50s diner in the middle of the desert. That means pulling over to take in an oft-overlooked view. That means venturing off of the beaten path and exploring the road less traveled. Each All Roads North client receives a custom and detailed Journey Guide that means you’ll have all the information you need at your fingertips.

Timing is Everything

Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta in New Mexico

It’s important to visit places when they’re at their best. Take into account the times not to visit (when it’s unbearably hot and muggy in South Carolina, for example, or when the sun is unlikely to peak through the rain in the Pacific Northwest). It’s equally important to have your finger on the pulse and know when a destination really shines. Timing a visit to coincide with local festivals or when the crowds won’t be as intense will exponentially add value to your journey.

Updated Info

As ever with traveling, plans can change. It’s important to stay on top of updated information on complications from road closures to wildfires. All Roads North stays on top of the details throughout your trip and provides 24/7 concierge services, so you can journey stress-free.