Are you considering taking a road trip around the United States? It’s an exciting and adventurous idea, but one that requires careful planning.
One of the most important questions to ask yourself is, how long would it take to road trip around the US? The answer depends on several factors, such as your route, the number of stops you plan to make, and your desired pace. In this article, we’ll explore these variables and provide some estimates to help you plan your journey.
Factors that Affect Road Trip Duration
Before we get into specifics about how long it takes to road trip around the US, let’s discuss some of the factors that can affect your overall travel time.
Route
The route you choose will play a significant role in determining how long it takes to complete your road trip. The US is a vast country with a variety of scenic routes to choose from.
For example, if you take the classic Route 66 from Chicago to Los Angeles, it will take approximately two weeks if you drive 8 hours per day. On the other hand, if you opt for a more extended route like Highway 101 along the Pacific Coastline or Highway 1 through Florida Keys, it could take up to four weeks or more.
Number of Stops
Another factor that can impact your travel time is how many stops you plan to make along the way. Some travelers prefer to make frequent stops at interesting landmarks or attractions along their route while others prefer to drive straight through and minimize stops.
Pace
Your pace is also an essential variable in determining how long it takes to complete your road trip around the US. If you are in a hurry and want to get through as quickly as possible, then driving for longer hours each day may be necessary. However, if you want a more relaxed pace and enjoy taking your time, then a slower pace might be more appropriate.
Estimates for Road Trip Duration
Now that you know the variables that can affect road trip duration let’s provide some estimates based on different scenarios.
14 Days
If you have two weeks to complete your road trip around the US, then a route like Route 66 could be a great option. You should plan to drive approximately 8 hours per day and make stops along the way for sightseeing and rest. This route takes you through eight states, including Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California.
21 Days
If you have three weeks to complete your road trip around the US and want a more extended route than Route 66, then consider driving along the Pacific Coastline. Highway 101 will take you through Oregon and California’s scenic coastal towns with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Plan to drive about six hours per day and make plenty of stops at beaches, parks, wineries along the way.
30 Days or More
If you have over a month to dedicate to your road trip around the US, then consider driving from coast-to-coast. This route will take you from Los Angeles on the West Coast to New York City on the East Coast. You’ll need to plan accordingly since this is an extensive journey that requires pacing yourself over several weeks.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, how long it takes to road trip around the US depends on several factors such as your route choice and desired pace. No matter how long your journey takes; however long it is sure to be an unforgettable adventure filled with beautiful sights and memorable experiences. So grab your map and start planning for an epic journey across America!