The possibilities are almost limitless when planning a road trip through the United States. You decide when to leave, which roads to take, what to see and where to spend each night. Yet good planning is critical, and can mean the difference between a memorable journey and a trip filled with unexpected frustrations. For example, taking your children to see Mount Rushmore could be the experience of a lifetime, but you might not want to visit the same week tens of thousands of bikers gather for the annual motorcycle rally in nearby Sturgis, South Dakota.
Start planning by asking yourself two questions: What is your ultimate destination? Also, how much time can you devote to the trip? Your destination--or turnaround point, if you're doing a round-trip--and the amount of time available sets a framework for all other planning.
Research the attractions you'd like to visit between your starting point and destination. The Internet has revolutionized this process, offering information in seconds on virtually any attraction, no matter how small. Check a bookstore or library for travel guides, and don't forget to ask family or friends who have taken similar trips what sights they most enjoyed.
Construct a daily itinerary that incorporates some scenic routes, passes attractions you've selected, and then ends at your desired lodging. One possible resource: Rand McNally's website includes a "Plan A Trip" feature. Users plug in their trip's starting and stopping points and the site then recommends possible routes and attractions.
The Independent Traveler website advises, "Unless you have a specific destination and a strict schedule, there is little point in hitting the roads to see the country if you don't spend some time on the back roads."
Check hotel websites for prices and availability at locations along your route. Other sites allow travelers to bid on discount room rates for certain hotels.
Service your car fully before the trip. If traveling on a budget, remember to account for unexpected expenses such as toll roads, admission fees, dining and souvenirs. If traveling with young children, bring plenty of items--games, a DVD player, snacks, etc.--to keep them occupied.
