How Long Is a Road Trip From LA to New York?

By Alice Nichols

Are you planning a road trip from Los Angeles to New York? It’s quite a journey, covering over 2,700 miles.

However, the length of your trip will depend on several factors such as the route you choose, the time of year you travel, and how frequently you stop to rest. Let’s dive into the details.

Choosing Your Route

The first thing to consider is which route you’ll take. There are several options, but the most popular ones are:

  • The Southern Route: This route takes you through Arizona, Texas, and eventually to New Orleans before heading up towards New York.
  • The Northern Route: This route takes you through Colorado, Nebraska, and eventually towards Chicago before heading east towards New York.
  • The Middle Route: This route takes you through Oklahoma, Missouri, and Kentucky before heading north towards Ohio and then east towards New York.

Time of Year

The time of year you travel can also impact the length of your road trip. For example:

  • If you’re traveling during winter months (December – February), there’s a chance that some roads may be closed due to snow or ice. This could result in longer travel times or even detours.
  • If you’re traveling during summer months (June – August), there’s a higher chance of road construction or heavy traffic in popular tourist areas.

Frequent Stops

If you plan on making frequent stops along the way for sightseeing or breaks, this will also impact your overall travel time. It’s important to factor in additional time for these stops when planning your itinerary.

How Long Does It Take?

Assuming that you take the southern route and don’t make many stops, the average travel time is around 40 hours. This equates to about 4-5 days of driving if you plan on driving for around 8-10 hours per day. However, if you’re taking the northern or middle route, you can expect your trip to take a bit longer.

Tips for a Smooth Road Trip

To ensure that your road trip goes as smoothly as possible, here are some tips:

  • Make sure to do regular car maintenance before leaving to avoid any breakdowns on the road.
  • Plan your route ahead of time and have a detailed itinerary so you know where you’ll be staying each night.
  • Pack plenty of snacks and water to avoid having to stop too often for food.
  • Take breaks often to stretch your legs and prevent fatigue.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a fun and memorable road trip from Los Angeles to New York. Safe travels!