I’ve just returned to my new home (Philly) after a rather random cross country road trip. Yes, you read that right. Me. Whose been MIA on my blog for about two months was out on the open road… ALONE.
No, your eyes are working. For the past week I’ve been all up and through the bits of America we so often fly over. Now I’ve always toyed around with the idea of driving cross country with a partner in crime or something, but I didn’t think it would happen so soon and I didn’t think I’d be doing it alone. Alas, the opportunity presented itself and I just couldn’t say no. So I compiled a few tips for how to handle your first solo cross country road trip if you ever find yourself in the same predicament as I!
1. DON’T SKIMP ON THE GAS FILL-UPS
As I drove through gorgeous Nevada and gawked at the scenic view of nothing but mountains, my eyes couldn’t help but to constantly sweep over the gas meter. Before my eyebrow started to sweat in worry, an exit with a gas station would appear. To avoid being stranded out on those Nevada roads, I’d suggest filling up once you hit the halfway mark instead of waiting until you get to the quarter mark. Or else you’ll be out there with the tumble weeds.
2. BUY HEALTHIER SNACKS BEFORE HITTING THE ROAD
Since I was driving from the land of health nuts *ahem* California *ahem*, I knew that my best bet for doing this trip with a semblance of health was to purchase my favorite healthy snacks while I was there. I’m glad I went a little crazy on the fruits and nuts because what laid ahead of me was nothing but the most deliciously harmful foods. So when you’re indulging in your 2nd McDonald’s meal for the day for example, you can snack on your almonds and blueberries without feeling too guilty.
3. TAKE PICTURES AND VIDEOS
Although I didn’t document this trip as much as I thought I would, I still captured the moments that stood out to me and I’m pleased with that. Even though I was on a schedule, I’m glad that I took those moments to hop out of the car at a rest stop and marvel at the beauty of this land we inhabit. Driving through places like Tahoe National Forest, Reno, Nevada, and even Nebraska for the first time was something that couldn’t be ignored!
4. MAXIMIZE YOUR TIME
Because I was working, I wasn’t able to truly plan out the locations and stop to see everything that intrigued me. However, I definitely made sure to not only stop for the views but to stop in the major cities that were along my route. For example, when I knew I was passing through Omaha I found a restaurant or area I wanted to explore even if it was just for an hour for my lunch break. I would prefer to have a quick snapshot of the city rather than none at all.
Those are my super quick tips for solo travelers who happen to find themselves on a road trip. Let me know if you have any useful tips for road trips!
