If you’re looking to see what America truly has to offer, then you’ll need to venture beyond the eye-catching city breaks and theme parks of the coasts, and into the endless highways that criss-cross the flyover states in the centre. An American road trip might acquaint you with authentic aspects of American culture, and allow you to drive along iconic routes like Route 66 and the famous Pacific Coast Highway.
But how, exactly, do you make a success of an American road trip?
Plan in advance
To begin with, you’ll need to arrange your trip such that you avoid peak travel periods. Inflation in the UK has pushed up the cost of crossing the Atlantic, and you’ll face seasonal crowding in many national parks and other tourist hotspots. Nashville holidays tend to be particularly popular in summer, when the major music festivals and July 4th celebrations kick off. Make sure that you explore your options when it comes to moving your holiday back or forward; doing so might allow you to save significantly.
Sort your documents, flights and car hire
Before entering the country, you’ll need to go through the US government’s Electronic System for Travel Authorization (or ESTA). If you’re travelling under the Visa Waiver Program, then you’ll still require ESTA approval 72 hours before you depart. Make sure that your passport is in date, that you have a return flight booked, and that you pass the minimum age laws for hiring a car in a particular state.
Build a realistic route and budget
Having a pleasant experience on American roads means having an idea of where you’re going, and how you’re going to get there. Your planned route should be flexible enough to adapt to problems and delays you encounter along the way. You’ll also want to ensure that the driver has enough time to rest along the way, and that your budget will stretch to everything from food to fuel to overnight accommodation and travel insurance.
Stay safe, insured and informed
Your insurance should ideally be comprehensive, and include excess cover. You’ll also want to invest in breakdown recovery. Make sure that you’re aware of the rules of the road, and that you drive cautiously. If you’re stepping directly from a long-haul flight into the driver’s seat, then you’ll need to be aware of the fatiguing effects of jet lag. It’s often best to delay the start of your trip, so that you have a chance to acclimatise to the local time. Fortunately, many airports are based in large cities, with plenty of things to see and do for the first day or so.
Consult the official travel advice before you set out, so that you can be made aware of any interruptions and delays.