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Hit the Road Prepared: 15 Must-Know Tips for Your Ultimate American Long Drive

"Excited about a US road trip, a forum user asked for advice on planning one for three or four 20-something girls, involving camping, cheap food, and exploration, from the northeast, through Washington, California and back."

LEARN HOW TO CHANGE A TIRE

“Knowing how to change a tire is very important on a long drive like that.”

PACK AS LIGHTLY AS POSSIBLE

"Pack light, keep emergency cash, invest in good socks & boots. Use paper maps, don't trust tech always. Be ready for defense."

DO FUN THINGS

"If you see fun, go for it. Like finding a 'world best burgers' shack in a dust storm 100+ miles from civilization near Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas."

LEAVE TIME TO EXPLORE RANDOM THINGS

“Don’t plan the trip out before you go other than a general outline, and leave time to explore random things you discover along the way.”

FILL UP YOUR TANKS

"Never miss a chance to fuel up. Have water, real maps, emergency kit & good music. Don't speed, use seat belts. Call home daily. Some plans only work in reality. Let your journey unfold."

GET THE NATIONAL PARKS CARDS

“Get the National Parks Card. It’s $ 80 for a pass to get into any National Park to camp, access showers, etc. You only need one per car.”

COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR CREDIT CARD COMPANY

"Reach out to your card issuer about your travel plans including states and time frames. If your card gets denied due to travelling, the prior note on your account will help."

YOU NEED A LOT OF SLEEP

“You need a lot of sleep. You don’t want to sleep while driving.”

STAY OFF THE INTERSTATES

"Avoid interstates unless in a hurry. State & US highways offer memorable sights. Ensure oil & filter change and tire tread check before heading out."

PACK WATER FOR FOUR PEOPLE

“Water. Always have water with you for four people. A minimum of a 24-pack case. Plus, a weapon you are comfortable with.”

DON’T DRIVE DURING CERTAIN TIME PERIOD

"Avoid driving in DC between 7-10am and 3-7pm on weekdays due to high traffic. Prefer visiting during weekends or use public transit for sightseeing."

CARRY A TOWEL

“Always make sure you have your towel.”

CARRY MORE MONEY

“Make sure you have 1.5 or even 2x more money than you need. You’ll need more because there are expenses you didn’t think about.”

TAKE NOTE OF ROAD SIGNS

"Note road signs with three-digit numbers for highway patrol. Useful when lost or GPS fails. I've called twice in Miami due to confusing roads."

TRAVEL WITH PEPPER SPRAY

"Travel in pairs if you're girls, especially in unfamiliar areas. Carry pepper spray - better safe than sorry."

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