Are you embarking on a Canadian road trip in 2023? Or maybe you’re going to the east coast? Or Europe? Look no further! In this blog post, I want to share with you all my favorite tools and apps to plan a road trip and create unforgettable memories. Discover how these tools can assist you in mapping out your route, exploring captivating national parks, and curating a personalized trip itinerary that perfectly aligns with your interests. Get ready to embark on an epic summer full of road trips, adventure, and travel with confidence and excitement, armed with the best tools and apps of 2023!
I’m not the kind of girl that can just pack and leave, I need to plan and schedule, and if you are the same, this article will be so helpful!
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When it comes to trip planning and seeking inspiration and ideas for my road trips, my first go-to tool is Pinterest.
Pinterest, though not a new platform, offers the perfect way to get a general sense of the sights and experiences I mustn’t miss during my trip-planning process. It functions as a search engine, similar to Google, but with captivating visuals at its core. Navigating through it is a breeze. Begin by entering a general idea related to your trip planning, and gradually refine your search to discover more specific details that align with your itinerary.
One of the great features of Pinterest is the ability to curate boards that reflect your interests. By creating boards and saving content to them, you can easily revisit your favorite findings whenever you need to. It’s like having a personalized travel inspiration library at your fingertips.
Travel Blogs
Another great way to get inspo and gather valuable information about your destination is to follow travel bloggers. With their extensive experience and ability to compare various places, they are a reliable source of free recommendations. Personally, I prefer to follow bloggers I can relate to, such as those who are females, people of color, Muslims, or young adults.
Some of the free blogs I follow include The Blond abroad, Oneika the Traveller, and HeyCiara. These bloggers have established themselves in the travel sphere and consistently provide insightful content at no cost.
All trails
This app is a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to plan a road trip. It provides comprehensive information about various hikes in your vicinity, making it an invaluable tool for planning your road trip itinerary. With All Trails, you can explore all the different hikes around you and gain feedback from people who have previously completed them. It offers essential details such as hike length, difficulty level, weather conditions, and even whether dogs are allowed on the trails. Armed with this information, you can seamlessly incorporate exciting hikes into your road trip plans, ensuring an unforgettable adventure filled with scenic trails and breathtaking landscapes.
Now that we are done with the inspiration, let’s dive into tools that help map your road trip!
Roadtrippers
If you are planning a road trip in Canada, the US, Australia, or New Zealand, this is the perfect app for you! While there is a free version available, I personally find it rather limited and highly recommend opting for the paid version priced at $35 CAD per year. The premium version offers many features including the ability to add up to 150 stops, access live traffic updates, and enjoy offline maps for uninterrupted navigation.
With Roadtrippers, you can effortlessly construct the ultimate road trip route by tapping into its extensive database of essential resources. It provides you with options, including campsites, hotels, fuel stations, rest stops, vibrant bars and restaurants, unmissable landmarks, and captivating attractions. This comprehensive trip planning tool ensures that you have everything you need to create the perfect itinerary, tailored to your preferences and interests.
Google Maps
If you prefer not to invest in a paid app, worry not! Google Maps can be your go-to solution, the best free road trip app. Although it may require a bit more effort, the results are undoubtedly worth it, especially if you’re planning a European or African road trip, as Google Maps offers extensive coverage in these regions as well.
To help you make the most of Google Maps and ensure you navigate through unfamiliar territories, I can provide you with a detailed step-by-step guide on how I use Google Maps. From discovering the optimal routes to avoiding any potential misdirection… So, even if you choose to forgo a paid app, rest assured that Google Maps is a powerful tool that can be harnessed to its full capacity for a successful and stress-free road trip adventure.
Road trip planning requires a lot of coordination, so the next tool to consider is…
Google Docs
Using Google as your go-to tool to plan a road trip can be incredibly advantageous. With its versatile features, I have found it instrumental in creating a comprehensive step-by-step guide for my journey. Google enables me to build a detailed itinerary, incorporating a trip map for a visual overview of each day, to-do lists, packing essentials, must-see attractions, budget tracking, and even storing addresses conveniently.
The true beauty of using Google lies in its seamless connectivity across multiple devices, allowing you to access your road trip plans anywhere with a Wi-Fi connection. Whether you’re using a smartphone, tablet, or laptop, Google keeps all your information synchronized, ensuring you have everything you need at your fingertips, no matter where your travels take you. It is very convenient when you’re planning a trip with some friends and working in collaboration to create trip itineraries.
Once your route is planned and mapped, time to book your accommodations!
Bookings.com
When planning a road trip, my first go-to is Booking.com. With a wide range of affordable accommodations, including hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts, Booking.com is an international platform that caters to travelers worldwide. Its extensive reach and budget-friendly prices make it the ideal choice for finding the perfect place to stay during your road trip adventure.
Airbnb
Another excellent option when you plan a road trip is Airbnb. When it comes to finding accommodations that offer a more private and custom experience, Airbnb stands out. Unlike traditional hotels or booking platforms, Airbnb allows you to discover unique and distinct stays that can truly enhance your road trip adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Plan a Road Trip
Can you plan a road trip on Google Maps?
Yes! Easily! I will make a step-by step guide to show you how you can optimize that tool and make it work for you!
Can AAA help me plan a road trip?
AAA offers a fantastic resource for road trip enthusiasts with a comprehensive page filled with captivating and diverse road trip itineraries. Whether you’re craving an adventure through the stunning landscapes of the Northern Rockies, the mesmerizing South West desert, or the enchanting Appalachian region, AAA has a guide for you.
These road trip guides provide a lot of inspiration and recommendations, allowing you to embark on unforgettable journeys, but then you can customize your route with previously mentioned tools like Pinterest, travel blogs, and mapping apps.
How to plan a road trip by yourself?
When planning a road trip solo, it’s crucial to prioritize your personal driving limit. This self-awareness forms the foundation for an enjoyable and safe journey. To avoid any unexpected inconveniences, make advance bookings for accommodations and activities, ensuring you won’t find yourself stranded. Before hitting the road, don’t overlook the importance of conducting a thorough inspection of your vehicle to minimize any potential issues while you’re away. It’s also wise to secure comprehensive insurance coverage, such as AAA Road Assistance, for added peace of mind. Lastly, maintaining regular communication with someone back home is essential for safety purposes during your trip. And don’t forget to have fun!
I hope you enjoyed this post and will have a blast this summer on the road! Let m know where you are headed in the comments section below!
Until next time,
Sofyah,
Sofyah Ov is the founder of Sofyahscorner. Through her travels, she emphasizes the art of living comfortably while adventuring, showing readers how to strike a harmonious balance between world exploration and the soft life. Having lived in 3 different continents, the writer, passionate traveler, and lifestyle enthusiast would love to teach you how you can have it all!
