Buy a d-ring binder or accordion file before you make a road trip planner. The size will determine how much you can include, as well as how convenient it will be to carry with you. Choose an 8.5-by-11 binder or folder if you simply want to punch and add full-sized sheets or a half-pint binder (5.5-by-11) if you want to slip it into your tote.
Insert tabbed dividers into the trip planning guide. Consider sections like "to do," "route planner," "activities," "budget" and "memorabilia." The first category can include packing lists, instructions for house sitters or reminders to have mail delivery stopped, for example. The route planner section can include maps, driving directions, lodging contact information and confirmation numbers and alternate plans in case you need to change your route.
Create a section for events, landmarks and activities that you want to experience on the road trip. Print information from the Internet or request brochures in advance to determine directions and hours of operation. Just consult that section of the road trip planner for instant information.
Stay on budget throughout the trip by pre-printing vacation budget worksheets to track and monitor your spending. Websites like DollarTimes.com and HSBC bank (www.banking.us.hsbc.com/personal/loans/vacation_worksheet.html), for example, feature free printable vacation budget worksheets with spots to list amounts for gas, admissions, food and lodging.
Add zippered pouches in the budget and memories sections to store receipts and pieces of ephemera from the vacation like business cards, brochures, local maps and postcards. If you're using a smaller binder when you make a road trip planner, consider packing a plastic document holder to store memorabilia throughout the road trip and keep the items wrinkle free.
