How to Plan a Road Trip to Remember

Road trips are a great way to get to know your own state or explore others nearby. They're fun, exciting, and expose you to hidden gems both near and far. The best road trips take planning and preparation. Here's how to plan a road trip to maximize fun on your next adventure.

The Best Way to Begin Planning the Perfect Road Trip

To plan the road trip of your dreams, start with answering the 6 Ws (who, what, where, when, why, and how) to build a detailed plan.

Choose a Road Trip Route

Once you have an end destination in mind, lay your route out on a map. Using your smartphone will allow you to see the possible routes you can take and landmarks and popular sights you can add as stops along the way. You can also download the Wyndham Hotels & Resorts app to make it easier to find and book hotels along the way. Beware of trying to pack too many stops in a short amount of time. Make a list of sightseeing opportunities and select a few that will line up with the timeline of your trip.

If you're planning an impromptu weekend road trip, check the weather in the major cities along the way. Even if you plan your road trip months in advance, you should figure out a contingency route. That way, if you do run into a major storm or weather event, you'll be able to take a different way. It would also be wise to check traffic reports for road closures, construction detours, and longer-than-usual traffic delays periodically on your journey. A quick check in the morning can help prevent a wasted day dealing with traffic issues.

Road Trip Companions

Traveling alone has its own set of challenges but traveling with another person requires a great deal of communication. For instance, although you may have a vision of where or what you would like to see along the way, it may change if you decide to travel with others. Work with your adventure partner(s) to create a foolproof travel plan that lays out the following information:

• What are the non-negotiable stops along the way?
• How often will you stop for breaks and where?
• Who is going to be driving which legs of the trip?
• Who gets to control the sound system and when?
• Who is responsible for the map and/or navigation?

How to Determine the Length of Your Road Trip

There is no pre-determined length a road trip has to span. It can last for as little as one day or stretch over multiple weeks, or even months. There are many different elements to consider when determining the length of your trip.

Budgeting on a Road Trip

As with many things in life, the two determining factors of how long you may be able to get away depend on time and money. The budget you have to support your road trip needs to be clearly laid out before embarking on the open road.

Using a spreadsheet is a very useful tool for creating a budget and removes any guesswork.

Allocate money for gas, food, and hotels, plus unpredictable expenses such as mechanical and tire issues. It’s always wise to overestimate the amount of money you think you may need so you don't find yourself having to turn around early due to lack of funds.

Where to Sleep on a Road Trip

To ensure you have a place to lay your head at night, look up trusted hotel chains and book ahead of time. You will find the best deals by booking directly through the company rather than using third-party sites.

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has a range of options, with thousands of locations across the U.S. Which hotel is right for you depends on location, the amenities you need, and who you're traveling with. For example, suites may be more appropriate for families, while those traveling with a dog or cat should look for pet-friendly accommodations. Hotels with on-site dining—including free breakfast—are always worth looking for, as is free WiFi for staying connected to family and friends on the road.

You can filter your search by location, amenities, and availability either through the Wyndham Hotels & Resorts app or the Wyndham Hotels & Resorts website.

Car & Personal Safety on a Road Trip

Getting a tune-up on your vehicle is a complete necessity before hitting the road.

When traveling alone, consider the following personal safety precautions

• Stay closer to home on roads and in areas you are familiar with.
• Pack an emergency roadside kit with first-aid supplies, a blanket, and flashlight.
• Make sure your phone and/or GPS unit are charged and readily available.
• Inform reliable friends or family of your destination and arrival timebefore leaving.

What to Eat on a Road Trip

Planning meals ahead on a road trip will save you the headache of finding a place to eat after you’ve already found yourself hungry. Designate a space for a cooler if you plan to cook a majority of your meals or if you prioritize having cold drinks. Pack plenty of snacks that are within easy reach as you're driving. If you want to experience new cuisine along the way, map out local favorites on your route so you don't miss the area's best offerings.

Ready to Hit the Road

Planning how to care for your basic needs will release enough mental stress to allow you more time and space for having fun. Be sure you know how and where your next meal will come from, where you’ll be sleeping that night, and what your budget is for the day before putting the key in the ignition on the first day of your trip.

Ready to scour the map and set out on your dream road trip? Plan your trip and book direct with Wyndham Hotel & Resorts.