Is it Safe to Road Trip Across America? 7 Things I learned Driving Across the U.S.
Hi there! Wondering if a road trip through America is safe? The answer is yes, but there are definitely some things to keep in mind—especially if you’re visiting from another country. My husband and I have been living in the U.S. for three years now, and we’ve learned a lot from our road trip adventures. I’m sharing our best tips to help you hit the road with confidence. Let’s dive in!
The U.S. is huge! It’s so easy to underestimate distances. On a map, things may look close, but when you pull up Google Maps, you’ll be floored by how far apart destinations actually are. So, plan your route and mark places to rest or grab foods.
On major highways (called interstates), you’ll find rest areas where you can stretch your legs and use the restroom without leaving the highway, but the distance between them is big some times, so I recommend that you have rough plan to rest. If you’re using fast food spots or gas stations, you’ll need to exit, but they’re everywhere, so no stress.
Some toll roads, like the Ohio Turnpike, have super convenient rest stops with toilets, fast food, and gas stations all in one spot. Plus, they’re usually really clean!
2. Download Google Maps for Offline Use
Sometimes you’ll drive through areas with little to no internet connection—hello, middle of nowhere! I highly recommend downloading offline maps on Google Maps before hitting the road. If you’ve never done this, don’t worry—it’s super easy!
3. Check the Weather and Pack Accordingly
The weather here can get wild. Summers might bring heavy rain or even tornadoes, while winters can mean snowstorms. If the forecast looks sketchy, don’t be afraid to change or postpone your plans. Safety first!
For winter trips, here’s what you absolutely need:
- Water, warm clothes, and blankets (you never know if you’ll get stuck and need to wait for help).
- An ice scraper and brush (this should be in your rental car if you’re heading to a snowy place).
- Keep your gas tank at least half full—always!
- Gloves! Trust me, they’re lifesavers for outdoor tasks in freezing temps.
4. Know the Traffic Rules
Driving rules vary a bit between states, but here are two things that tripped me up as an international traveler:
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- Turning right on red lights: Yep, you can turn right at a red light unless there’s a sign saying “NO TURN ON RED.”
- Passing police cars: If you see police on the roadside (maybe helping with an accident), try to move over to the next lane. It’s a courtesy—and sometimes even the law—to give them space.
5. Watch for Time Zone Changes
If you’re crossing state borders, double-check the time zones. The U.S. has four main time zones, but some states have multiple time zones. It caught me off guard more than once—don’t let it throw off your plans!
6. Prepare Food for The Travel in National Holidays
Major holidays like Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas can leave you hungry if you’re not prepared. Restaurants and supermarkets often close early—or don’t open at all. When we didn’t plan ahead, gas station snacks were our saviors. So stock up beforehand!
7. Dealing with Toll Roads
Some highways, called toll roads, require payment. The good news? They’re super easy to navigate. Many toll roads use a system that scans your car’s license plate and sends you an invoice later. If you’re in a rental car, the rental company will handle it (and charge you, of course). For frequent travelers, buying a transponder can save time and money.
There you have it—everything we’ve learned about safe and smooth road trips in the U.S. I hope this helps you have an amazing adventure! Ready to hit the road?
