With your GPS destination set, your road trip is just beginning. As you pull out of your driveway and head down the road maybe that thought pops into your head, "Are we there yet?", and you shoot a glance towards your estimated drive time. It reads, 26 hours, but, will your road trip really take 26 hours? I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but, no, your road trip is going to take longer and here's what you need to know to calculate that extra time.
Stopping to watch sunset while on a road trip. Photo by Dalton Johnson
1. Filling Up with Gas or Charging Your Car
One of the crucial aspects of a road trip is ensuring that your vehicle is fueled and ready for the journey ahead. Plan your gas stops strategically, aiming to refuel when your tank is around half full to avoid running on empty in remote areas. If you're driving an electric vehicle (EV), map out charging stations along your route and factor in charging time, which can vary depending on the charger's speed and your car's battery capacity. Allocate approximately 15-30 minutes for gas refills and 30-60 minutes for EV charging stops, including time for restroom breaks and stretching.
2. Eating Well on the Road
Maintaining your energy levels during a road trip is essential for staying alert and focused while driving. Pack a variety of snacks like trail mix, fresh fruit, Bobo Bar’s are one of my favorites, and water, lots of water, to keep hunger at bay between meals. Don’t forget the caffeine as well, my two go-to’s are Drink Coffee Do Stuff and Yerba Mate. The only thing, you can’t live on snacks, so for a more substantial meal, plan to stop at restaurants or roadside diners along the route. Budget around 30-60 minutes for a sit-down meal, including time to eat, rest, and use restroom facilities.
3. Taking Breaks for Stretching or Exploring Side Roads
While reaching your destination is the ultimate goal, remember that the journey itself is an adventure worth savoring. Don't hesitate to pull over at scenic viewpoints, historical landmarks, or charming towns that catch your eye. Make sure to snap some road trip photos of these stops so you can share your memories with friends and family. Taking short breaks to stretch your legs, snap photos, or explore nearby attractions adds depth to your road trip experience. Plan for these spontaneous stops by allocating 15-30 minutes for each break, depending on the activity and location.
4. Bathroom Breaks and Rest Stops
Regular bathroom breaks are essential for comfort and hygiene during long drives. Plan your restroom stops based on the distance between rest areas or service stations along the route. Aim to stop every 2-3 hours or as needed, allowing 10-15 minutes for each restroom break. Additionally, take advantage of rest stops to stretch, walk around, and refresh before continuing your journey.
5. Estimated Time Breakdown:
Gas or Charging Stops: 15-30 minutes
Meal Breaks: 30-60 minutes
Stretching or Side Road Stops: 15-30 minutes
Bathroom Breaks: 10-15 minutes
Total Estimated Additional Time: Approximately 1.5 to 3 hours (excluding driving time)
That feeling of gratitude from a day well explored while road tripping. Photo by Dalton Johnson
By factoring in these essential stops and allocating time accordingly, you can create a realistic schedule for your road trip. Remember that flexibility is key, and unexpected delays or detours may occur along the way. Embrace the spontaneity of the road and enjoy the moments of discovery and adventure that come with it. Happy travels!
