A coast-to-coast road trip in the United States can be a fun journey through the radically different landscapes across the country. This type of trip will need some planning, however, and if you are considering taking this long drive, your first step should be to begin researching the different places along the route that you will want to visit. Allot plenty of time for your coast-to-coast road trip for sightseeing, rest, as well as unforeseen delays such as traffic, and remember that your vehicle will need some maintenance before, during, and after the trip. Write a budget and include these maintenance costs in it.
Contact a motor club such as the American Automobile Association, or AAA, to obtain up to date maps that include detours for construction sites or other delays. These are great to have on hand during a coast-to-coast road trip, even if you are using a GPS, because these maps often provide the most up-to-date information on roads as well as roadside attractions along your route. These motor clubs may also have recommendations for the best routes, attractions, restaurants, lodging, and so on to help you make your trip as enjoyable as possible.
Before your coast-to-coast road trip begins, be sure to get your vehicle prepared for the long miles. This may mean getting an oil change or a tune-up, having a mechanic check over the vehicle for other potential problems, topping off fluids, changing or rotating tires, and otherwise making sure the vehicle is up for the task of driving across the country. If you have a small vehicle and think you will need extra storage space, consider purchasing a roof box for random items, or a bike rack to carry bicycles during your coast-to-coast road trip. Remember that any external units you buy should feature locks so you can ensure the security of your belongings when you are not driving.
The most common options for food along the way will be fast food restaurants, which can be extremely unhealthy. Try to pack healthy snacks not only to avoid eating fast food every day, but also to cut costs. Food costs will be one of the more significant costs on the trip, so packing snacks will help you stay fueled without stopping or spending cash. If possible, do the trip with a partner so you can switch off driving duties every few hours. If you do the trip alone, be sure to limit yourself to a certain number of hours of driving a day, and pull over if you get tired.