How Long Does It Take to Road Trip All 48 States?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you planning a road trip across all 48 states of the United States? You might be wondering how long it would take to cover all these states.

Well, the answer to this question is not straightforward as it depends on various factors such as your mode of transportation, the route you take, and how much time you have. In this article, we will discuss these factors in detail to help you estimate how long it would take to road trip all 48 states.

The Mode of Transportation
The mode of transportation you choose can significantly affect the time it takes to road trip across all 48 states. If you plan on driving your car, it might take longer than if you opt for a motorcycle or an RV.

This is because cars are slower than motorcycles and RVs and require more frequent stops for refueling and rest breaks. On the other hand, motorcycles and RVs can cover more miles per day and have better fuel efficiency, which means less time spent on the road.

The Route You Take
The route you take also plays a significant role in determining how long it will take to road trip all 48 states. If you plan on taking a direct route without any detours or stops, it might take less time than if you opt for a scenic route that covers more miles but with frequent stops at tourist attractions and landmarks.

Direct Route

If you choose to take a direct route without any detours or stops, covering all 48 states could take anywhere between two weeks to one month. This means driving an average of around eight hours per day with minimal breaks.

Scenic Route

If you want to explore more of what each state has to offer, taking a scenic route can be an excellent option. However, this could significantly increase the time it takes to cover all 48 states.

Depending on how many stops you make, it could take anywhere between two to six months to complete the trip. This means driving for around four to six hours per day with frequent stops at tourist attractions and landmarks.

  • If you plan on taking a scenic route, make sure to research the must-see attractions in each state beforehand. This will help you plan your route and schedule your stops accordingly.
  • You should also consider the weather conditions in each state and plan your trip accordingly. For example, it might not be ideal to visit states like North Dakota or Maine during the winter as the roads could be icy and dangerous.

Time Available

The time available is perhaps the most crucial factor in determining how long it takes to road trip all 48 states. If you have a limited amount of time, you might have to opt for a direct route without any detours or stops. On the other hand, if you have several months or even a year, taking a scenic route with frequent stops could be a great way to explore all that the United States has to offer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, estimating how long it takes to road trip all 48 states depends on various factors such as your mode of transportation, the route you take, and how much time you have. Taking a direct route without any detours or stops could take anywhere between two weeks to one month.

On the other hand, taking a scenic route with frequent stops could take anywhere between two to six months or even longer. Make sure to factor in all these variables when planning your road trip across all 48 states!