Are you planning to embark on an epic road trip around the United States? If you’re wondering how long it would take to visit all 48 contiguous states, we have some tips and insights to help you plan your journey.
Firstly, it’s important to note that a 48-state road trip can range anywhere from 9,000 to 12,000 miles depending on your route and stops. Therefore, the duration of your trip will largely depend on how much time you have available and how many stops you plan to make.
If you’re traveling solo or with a small group, a good rule of thumb is to allow for at least two months to comfortably complete the journey. This will give you enough time to enjoy each state without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
However, if you’re traveling with a larger group or plan on making lots of stops along the way – such as visiting national parks or major cities – then it’s best to add an extra few weeks onto your itinerary.
To help plan your route and estimated travel time, here are some key factors to consider:
Route Planning
Before setting off on your road trip, it’s essential to map out your route. There are several online tools available that can help you create a customized itinerary based on your preferences and interests.
For instance, Roadtrippers.com allows users to input their starting point and ending destination and suggests popular routes with recommended stops along the way. You can also filter by categories such as scenic drives, historical sites or foodie destinations.
Driving Time
When calculating travel time between states, it’s important not just to consider distance but also driving time. Depending on the terrain and traffic conditions in each state, driving times can vary significantly.
For example, driving from New York City to Boston (in different states) may only take around four hours whereas driving across Texas could take up to 14 hours. Therefore, it’s best to use a mapping tool that takes into account real-time traffic conditions and suggests the most efficient routes.
Accommodation
Another important factor to consider when planning a road trip is accommodation. While some travelers prefer to camp or stay in RV parks, others may prefer to stay in hotels or motels.
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are several affordable options available such as Airbnb or Couchsurfing. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, there are several high-end resorts and lodges located throughout the country.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a 48-state road trip can range anywhere from two months to three months depending on your route and preferences. It’s important to plan ahead and consider factors such as route planning, driving time and accommodation in order to make the most of your journey.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, fill up the tank and hit the open road – an unforgettable adventure awaits!