Are you planning a road trip from New York to LA? If so, you might be wondering how long the drive will take.
Well, the answer to that question isn’t as straightforward as you might think. There are a number of factors that can affect the duration of your journey, from your chosen route to your driving speed and rest stops. In this article, we’ll explore all of these factors and give you a rough idea of how long it might take to travel from one coast to the other.
The Route
The first thing to consider when planning a road trip from New York to LA is your route. There are a number of different ways you can go, each with its own pros and cons. Here are three common options:
Option 1: I-80 West
One popular route is to take Interstate 80 West all the way across the country. This route will take you through cities like Chicago and Omaha before reaching Denver and eventually crossing into Utah. From there, you’ll cross Nevada before finally arriving in California.
Option 2: I-70 West
Another option is to take Interstate 70 West instead. This route will take you through Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois before reaching Missouri and eventually Colorado. From there, you’ll cross Utah and Nevada before reaching California.
Option 3: Southern Route
If you’re looking for a more scenic route, consider taking a southern path via I-40 or I-10 through states like Tennessee, Arkansas, Texas, Arizona and New Mexico before arriving in Los Angeles.
Driving Speed
Another factor that will affect how long your road trip takes is your driving speed. If you plan on driving straight through with no rest stops or breaks for sightseeing or meals (not recommended), then obviously your speed affects your travel time.
Speed Limits
While you might be tempted to speed to get to LA faster, it’s important to remember that each state has its own speed limits. In many cases, these limits will be lower than what you’re used to in New York, so make sure you check the rules of the road before setting off. Also keep in mind that driving over the speed limit is dangerous and can result in a ticket or accident.
Rest Stops
It’s also important to factor in rest stops when planning your road trip. You’ll need to stop every few hours to stretch your legs, use the bathroom, and grab a bite to eat or drink.
Recommended Rest Stops
There are plenty of rest stops along each route, but it’s recommended that you plan ahead and stop at designated rest areas or restaurants for safety reasons. Some popular stops include:
- Pilot Flying J Travel Centers
- Loves Travel Stops
- Texas Roadhouse Restaurants
- Denny’s Restaurants
Conclusion
So how long is a road trip from New York to LA? In general, you can expect the journey to take around 40-45 hours if driving straight through without any stops.
However, this isn’t recommended as it can be dangerous and tiring. If you plan on stopping regularly for meals and rest breaks along the way, then expect the journey to take anywhere from 4-7 days depending on how many hours per day you drive.
Remember, safety comes first! Plan out your route carefully and take regular breaks along the way. With proper planning and pacing, your road trip from New York to LA should be a memorable experience filled with sights and adventures!