Road trips are modern adventures, full of exploration and discovery. If you’re ready to toss your life into the backseat and go for a long drive, be sure to give the East Coast of the United States a full sweep—there’s so much culture and history just waiting to be unfurled. Before you head out, though, consider these four tips to make the most of your East Coast journey.
Bring the Essentials
Check weather forecasts and pack accordingly. Because the East Coast spans across several different climate zones, you have to prepare yourself for all kinds of weather: you might hit the beach in Florida one day, then strap snow chains on to your tires to make it through the wintry roads in Pennsylvania the next. You should also put together an emergency kit full of maps and guidebooks, first aid supplies, batteries and chargers, and even snacks for when you need a little extra fuel. Bring blankets and pillows for when you’d rather sleep in your car than spend money on a hotel, and, of course, don’t forget to burn plenty of road trip mix CD’s.
Plan Your Stops
It is probably not a good idea to set out on your road trip without a good idea of where you want to go. If you’re a history buff, you’ll want to spend some time around the Civil War battlefields in Georgia or check out the national museums in Washington DC. Nature lovers won’t want to miss an airboat tour of the Florida Everglades or a hike up the Appalachian Trail. Maybe you just want to see everything that sets the East Coast apart from the rest of the country. Consider your interests and do some research on the coolest attractions the East Coast has to offer.
Save Some Cash
You’ve been saving up for this trip for a long time, but there’s no harm in cutting costs wherever you can. Make a budget before you set out so you know just how much money you can spare on local food, gas, lodging, and souvenirs. If you’re a little more adventurous, consider couchsurfing instead of booking expensive motel rooms. You’ll benefit from a fuel-efficient car as well, so when you pass through North Carolina, be sure to check out the used cars in Hickory. Chances are you will enjoy your trip so much you’ll want to take another one as soon as you can, and it’ll be great to have spare cash left over.
Open Your Mind
As solid as your travel itinerary may be, there are countless sights to see in the east. Most interstate roads feature billboards advertising amazing roadside attractions and gift shops—stuff that you might not have heard about beforehand. Keep a camera and a journal close by so you will never forget the places you uncover on your adventure. Let yourself roam the coast freely, keep an eye out for hidden gems, and always be willing to get out of your comfort zone. After all, it’s the journey that makes a trip memorable, not the destination.
Whether you’re an East Coast native looking for places you’ve yet to experience or a newcomer to this side of the US, with these tips in mind, you’re sure to have an incredible road trip!
