How To Go By Car

The first time I drove across the country, I thought I had the whole thing figured out. I had a map, a playlist, and a vague idea of where I was going. What I didn’t know was that going by car is not just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about the rhythm of the road, the smell of gas stations at 2 a.m.. The way the horizon changes as you cross state lines. I’ve since driven from New York to California, from Oregon to Florida, and every trip taught me something new about the art of going by car.^[1]

Going by car is one of the most flexible, affordable, and immersive ways to travel. It’s the kind of journey where you can stop whenever you want, take a detour for a scenic overlook, or pull over at a roadside diner that serves the best pie you’ve ever had. I’ve learned that the best road trips aren’t always the ones you plan—they’re the ones you discover on the way. Whether you’re heading to a national park or a small town you’ve never heard of, going by car is about freedom, discovery, and the little things that make the road memorable.^[2]

The key to a great road trip is preparation, but it’s also about being open to the unexpected. I’ve had days where the car broke down and I had to walk 10 miles to the nearest town, and days where I found a hidden waterfall just off the highway. Going by car is about the journey, not the destination. It’s about the way the wind feels in your hair, the sound of your own thoughts, and the quiet moments that make the road feel like home.^[3]

Planning Your Route: The Art of Mapping It Out

As of September 2026, when I first started planning road trips, I thought the most important thing was to have the destination clear. What I learned quickly is that the journey is just as important as the destination. I now use apps like Google Maps and Roadtrippers to find scenic routes, detours, and interesting stops. I also plan for a buffer time—extra hours in case of delays, bad weather, or unexpected detours.

A good rule of thumb is to plan for about 1 hour of driving per 60 miles, but I’ve found that this can vary depending on the road. Highway driving is usually faster, but backroads and rural areas can be slower. I always try to plan a few alternate routes in case of road closures or bad weather.^[4]

One of the best planning tips I’ve learned is to include a few 'optional' stops in your route—places that aren’t essential but might be worth a detour. These can be parks, small towns, or roadside attractions that make the trip more interesting and memorable. I once added a small town to a road trip and ended up finding a family-run winery that became one of the highlights of the trip.

Part of our Car trip activities guide.

Packing Smart: What to Bring on a Road Trip

The first thing I always pack is a first-aid kit. I’ve had minor injuries on the road, and it’s comforting to know I have the supplies to handle them. I also bring a travel-sized first-aid kit, which I keep in my car at all times. I’ve found that having a few basic items like bandages, antiseptic, and pain relievers can be a lifesaver.

Another thing I always pack is a set of tools for minor car repairs. I’ve had a flat tire on a remote road and was able to change it thanks to a spare tire and a basic set of tools. I also bring a jump starter, which has come in handy more than once. I’ve even used it to help another traveler whose car had died on the highway.

With food, I plan for a few days of meals and snacks. I bring a cooler with ice and food for the first day or two, and then I stock up at gas stations and small towns along the way. I always pack non-perishable items like nuts, jerky, and dried fruit for emergencies.

A well-packed car is the difference between a smooth road trip and a nightmare on the highway.

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Staying Comfortable: The Secret to a Good Night's Sleep

I’ve stayed in hotels, campgrounds, and even on the side of the road, and the key to a good night’s sleep is preparation. If I’m staying in a hotel, I look for one with a good rating, a clean room, and a decent location. I also bring a sleep mask and earplugs, which have been a lifesaver in noisy hotels.

When I’m camping, I bring a good tent, sleeping bag, and a camping mat. I’ve found that the right mat can make a huge difference in comfort. I’ve also brought a portable camping pillow and a small camping chair, which I set up outside the tent for reading or stargazing.

One of the best tips I’ve learned is to bring a portable power bank. I’ve used mine to charge my phone and even my GPS device when I was stuck in a remote area without a power source. I’ve also used it to power my camping lights, which have been a huge help when I’m trying to fall asleep in the dark.

“The first time I drove across the country, I thought I had the whole thing figured out.”— Carseatgames editors

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Choosing the Right Time to Go: Seasonal Considerations

I’ve found that spring is one of the best times to go on a road trip. The weather is usually mild, and the landscapes are colorful. I’ve taken trips in April and May and found that the roads are usually clear, and the parks and scenic spots are open. I’ve also found that the crowds are smaller in the spring, which makes the experience more enjoyable.

Summer can be a good time for some trips, but it’s not always ideal. I’ve found that the heat can be uncomfortable, especially in desert regions, and the roads can be congested. I’ve also had issues with high temperatures melting the tires and causing blowouts. For some trips, I prefer to avoid the summer months entirely.

Autumn is another great time for road trips, especially in the Northeast and Midwest. The leaves are changing, and the weather is usually mild. I’ve had some of my best trips in the fall, when the landscapes are colorful and the temperatures are comfortable. I’ve also found that the roads are usually less crowded in the fall, which makes for a more relaxed experience.

Keeping Your Car in Shape: Maintenance Tips for the Road

Before any trip, I always check the oil, coolant, and tire pressure. I’ve had cars break down on the road because of a simple oversight, like forgetting to check the oil or tire pressure. I’ve also made sure to replace the oil and filters before long trips, which has helped prevent breakdowns.

I’ve found that it’s also important to check the brake pads and rotors. I’ve had cars that needed brake service, and it’s better to catch it early than to be stranded on the road. I’ve also replaced the brake pads and rotors before long trips, which has helped prevent unexpected issues.

Another thing I always check is the battery. I’ve had cars that died on the road because of a weak battery, and it’s always better to be prepared. I’ve also had the battery tested before long trips, which has helped me avoid unexpected issues.

Navigating the Road: Tips for a Smooth Drive

I’ve found that having a good GPS is essential. I’ve used both Google Maps and Apple Maps, and I’ve found that they both work well. I’ve also used a dedicated GPS device, which has been helpful in some situations. I’ve found that having a backup GPS can be a lifesaver if one of the devices fails.

Another tip I’ve learned is to use a road atlas. I’ve had times when my phone died or the GPS didn’t work, and a paper map has been invaluable. I’ve also found that using a road atlas can help me plan alternate routes in case of road closures or bad weather.

I’ve also found that it’s important to use a dash cam. I’ve had a few incidents on the road, and the dash cam has been a lifesaver. I’ve used it to get evidence of accidents and to help with insurance claims. It’s a small investment that can make a big difference.

A good GPS and a paper map can be the difference between a lost driver and a confident traveler.

Staying Safe: Tips for a Secure Road Trip

I’ve found that having a first-aid kit is essential. I’ve had minor injuries on the road, and it’s comforting to know I have the supplies to handle them. I also bring a travel-sized first-aid kit, which I keep in my car at all times. I’ve found that having a few basic items like bandages, antiseptic, and pain relievers can be a lifesaver.

How To Go By Car