How to Plan the Perfect Road Trip: 10 Essential Steps for an Unforgettable Journey
There’s nothing quite like the open road: the freedom to go where you want, stop when you feel like it, and chase sunsets without an itinerary nailed down to the minute. While road trips are all about spontaneity and adventure, a little preparation goes a long way toward turning your drive into the perfect getaway.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a cross-country expedition, this guide covers everything you need from mapping your route and prepping your vehicle, to packing tips and road-ready playlists.
Step 1: Choose your Route
Start by thinking about your goals: Are you chasing coastal views? Hoping to explore national parks? Maybe you're in the mood for small-town diners and roadside attractions. Iconic drives like the Pacific Coast Highway, Cabot Trail, or Route 66 are well-loved for many reasons, but don’t forget to also check out some lesser-known gems nearby. If you’re an avid camper like us, you may want to check out Canada’s National Parks or the US National Parks Service. On the other hand, campers looking for something smaller should consider Provincial Parks (aka the best hidden gems).
Here are a few tools to help map your journey:
- Roadtrippers: Find attractions, restaurants, and unique stops along your route.
- Google Maps: Create a custom map and share it with friends or co-travelers.
- AllTrails: Great if you want to include hikes or nature trails in your itinerary.
Even if you love to wing it, sketching out a basic route gives you a framework while still leaving space for spontaneous stops.
Step 2: Make a Flexible Itinerary
One of the biggest mistakes new road trippers make is overbooking every day. Aim for balance. Schedule in time for your must-see stops, but leave room to follow your curiosity.
A good rule of thumb: drive no more than 5–6 hours per day if you want to enjoy your stops along the way. Use a shared Google Doc or apps like TripIt to keep your plans organized, especially when traveling with others.
Step 3: Prep your Vehicle
Your car is your most important travel companion, so give it the attention it deserves before hitting the road.
Make sure to:
- Check tire pressure and tread
- Top off all fluids (oil, brake, coolant, windshield washer)
- Ensure your spare tire, jack, and emergency kit are in good condition
- Test your battery and lights
If your vehicle isn't up to the task, consider renting a car through Turo or Enterprise, especially for long-distance trips or when you want a specific type of vehicle (like a fuel-efficient hybrid or an SUV).
Step 4: Pack Like a Pro
Packing for a road trip isn’t just about clothing, it’s about comfort, convenience, and being prepared. While you'll want a few outfits suited to the climate and terrain, don’t forget your tech gear, a cooler, reusable water bottles, wet wipes, and some sort of trash solution for the car. It also helps to bring a physical map in case your GPS lets you down in remote areas.
If your trip involves camping or you're hoping to stop in more remote places, make sure to pack your trusty Napier Truck or SUV tent! This will make camping on the go easy and comfortable, especially for those who don’t want to book accommodations each night.
Step 5: Budget Smart
While road trips are often more affordable than flying, costs can still sneak up on you. Your biggest expenses will likely be fuel, food, lodging, and entrance fees for parks or attractions. Use GasBuddy to find the cheapest gas stations along your route and set aside a small emergency fund in case of unexpected repairs or detours.
To keep track of spending, try apps like:
Step 6: Plan your Stays
One of the best parts of road tripping is the freedom to decide where to stay. Whether you prefer hotels, campgrounds, or something in between, it’s smart to book your first and last night ahead of time for peace of mind. In between, leave room for flexibility.
Websites like Booking.com, Hipcamp, Parks Canada, and the US National Park Service make it easy to find a mix of accommodations, from cozy cabins to scenic campsites. For last-minute options, HotelTonight or Airbnb are great go-to’s.
If you’re open to camping without a reservation, check out FreeCampsites.net for crowd-sourced locations across North America. This would be a great opportunity to put the Napier tent you packed in Step 4 to use!
Step 7: Eat Well on the Road
Eating well on the road is all about balance. You’ll want a good mix of road-friendly snacks like trail mix, granola bars, fruit, and jerky to keep you going between meals. A cooler stocked with wraps, pasta salad, or pre-made sandwiches can keep things fresh and cut down on rest stop expenses.
Still, half the fun of a road trip is discovering local eats. Use Yelp or Eater to uncover the best diners, bakeries, and must-try regional specialties along the way.
Step 8: Stay Safe and Connected
Before heading out, it's always a best practice to let a friend or family member know your general route and check in every few days. Download offline maps with Google Maps or Maps.me in case you lose cell service in remote areas.
Other safety tips:
- Bring a fully charged power bank
- Keep an emergency supply of food and water
- Avoid driving at night in unfamiliar areas
- If you're heading into remote territory, consider a GPS communicator like Garmin inReach
Step 9: Capture the Memories
Don’t forget to document your adventure! Whether you’re using Instagram Stories, a camera, or a digital travel journal, you’ll want to look back on these moments later.
Have any pictures of your Napier tent from your road trip? We’d love to see! Tag us using #NapierNation.
Step 10: Enjoy Yourself
The most important step of all: have fun! A road trip is one of the most rewarding ways to travel. Not just because of where you end up, but because of everything you discover along the way. With a little planning, the right tools, and an open mind, you’ll be ready to hit the road and make memories that last a lifetime.
So, fuel up, cue the playlist, and roll the windows down. Your perfect road trip starts now.