Roadtripping Across the US: How to Prepare

There's nothing quite like a great American road trip. The open highway, the playlist you spent way too much time creating, the unplanned stops that turn into the best memories. It's the feeling of absolute freedom. But a cross-country adventure isn't something you just wing. If you want smooth sailing (or, rather, smooth cruising), preparation is everything. Proper planning and the right gear for a road trip can make all the difference between an epic adventure and a stressful one.

Your Car: Your Ultimate Travel Companion

Your vehicle is about to become your home on wheels. Treat it accordingly.

• Oil change? Done. Don't gamble on old oil for thousands of miles.
• Tire pressure and tread? Checked. Bald tires and long road trips don't mix.
• Brakes? Solid. Stopping power matters more than going power.
• Fluids topped off? Absolutely. Coolant, windshield washer fluid, transmission fluid—it's all important.
• Battery? Tested. You don't want to be stranded at a gas station in the middle of Nebraska.

If you're not mechanically inclined, get a professional inspection before you leave. Small fixes now will save big headaches later.

Packing Smart: Essentials You Can't Forget

Every road trip checklist starts with the basics, but let's go beyond the obvious. Here's what you need to stay safe and comfortable, no matter where your travels take you:

• Navigation. Yes, your phone has GPS, but a physical road atlas is your best friend when cell service disappears.
• Emergency Kit. Jumper cables, a flashlight, a first aid kit, a tire repair kit, and roadside flares. You won't need them—until you do.
• Spare Key. Lock yourself out once, and you'll never forget this again.
• Entertainment. Audiobooks, podcasts, and a variety of playlists. Silence gets real old, real fast.
• Cooler & Snacks. Gas station food is fun at first. Less so on day four.
• Reusable Water Bottles. Stay hydrated without filling the car with plastic bottles.
• Blanket & Pillow. Sometimes, the best place to crash is your backseat.
• Paper Towels & Wet Wipes. Messes happen. So do sticky hands.

Planning Your Route (With Room for Surprises)

Yes, you need a plan. No, you don't need to schedule every second. Good route planning typically looks a lot like this:

• Pick Your Must-See Stops. National parks, quirky roadside attractions, legendary diners. Plot them out.
• Give Yourself Buffer Time. The best parts of a road trip are often the unplanned ones.
• Have a Backup Route. Construction, detours, and weather can throw off your plan. A Plan B keeps things rolling.
• Check the Weather. A sunny drive in the desert is one thing. A snowstorm in the Rockies is another.
• Know Gas Station Gaps. The western states have long stretches with no gas. Plan accordingly.

Staying Comfortable on the Road

Hours in a car can take a toll. Comfort matters. Keep these simple comfort and convenience tips in mind:

• Seat Cushions & Lumbar Support. These are absolutely essential for long drives.
• Sunglasses & Sunscreen. Sun glare and sunburn don't make great souvenirs.
• Comfy Driving Shoes. Good footwear makes a difference, especially on pedal-heavy stretches.
• Car Organization. Keep essentials within reach. A tangled mess of bags in the backseat gets frustrating fast.
• Window Shades. Block out the sun, keep the car cool.

Make Room for Adventure With the Right Roadtripping Storage Solutions

Space definitely matters on a road trip. A cluttered car makes for cranky travelers. That's where luggage roof racks come in.

A solid roof rack or rooftop carrier gives you extra storage without cramping your passengers. Stash bulky bags, camping gear, or even your bikes up top and free up legroom. Discount Ramps has a full range of car-top carriers and racks built for the long haul. Easy to install, durable, and road trip–ready. Less clutter means more comfort and a much better trip.

If a roof rack isn't enough, consider hitch-mounted cargo carriers or truck bed storage solution to contain luggage and gear such as a cargo bar or cargo net. These options give you even more room to haul extra gear without sacrificing interior space. Discount Ramps also offers a variety of cargo carriers designed to keep your essentials secure, no matter how far you're traveling. Whether it's a hard-shell rooftop box, a cargo basket, or a hitch-mounted carrier, you'll find the perfect fit for your adventure.

Ready to Roll? Hit the Open Road With Confidence

A road trip isn't just about getting from A to B. It's about the incredible moments in between. Think of the detours, the unexpected conversations, and the landscapes that take your breath away. Pack right and plan smart. Stay open to the adventure ahead. Now, hit the road!