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Definition of road trip

Examples of road trip in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'road trip.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

1953, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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“Road trip.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/road%20trip. Accessed 19 Jul. 2024.

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Meaning of road trip in English

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• break-journey
• circumnavigation

road trip | Intermediate English

Examples of road trip, translations of road trip.

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of or relating to the moon

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[ rohd trip ]

She met many new friends on her solo road trip around North Wales.

The second game is the season's first road trip, and will be at San Antonio.

verb (used without object)

We road tripped to California over summer break.

Word History and Origins

Origin of road trip 1

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Definition of road trip noun from the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary

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Nearby words

What is a road trip?

You regularly hear about it in travellers’ stories, in movies, and even in the songs you like. But do you know exactly what a road trip is? What defines it, what are the essential elements, and how to prepare it? Don’t wait any longer, come and find all the answers to your questions in our article dedicated to road trip. So, are you ready for the adventure?

Road trip definition

The expression contains two important words: “road”, and “trip”. We could therefore say that it simply means a journey that takes place mainly on the road. This is true, but it is also much more than that.

The duration

When we talk about road trips, there’s a notion of a fairly long duration. Indeed, leaving Paris to go to the sea for 2 days is not a road trip. There is no precise time, but let’s say that you still have to drive a long distance and see the landscape. Moreover, the road trip is often associated with the crossing of the United States by the mythical Route 66. This is an excellent example that shows the changes of settings, the long hours of driving in the monotonous plains, and all the adventures that this can bring.

In fact, road trips existe since the construction of the first roads. In those days, they were called pilgrimages, but they were a form of travel on the road. Nowadays, most people prefer to talk about “road trip” when a crossing is made with a motor vehicle. Long distances travelled by bicycle, on the other hand, are more properly classified as bicycle tourism. But since there is no precise definition, everyone is free to have his or her own opinion.

On the other hand, people agree on the style of the trip. Indeed, road trippers like to travel in an alternative way, away from organised tours and all-inclusive hotels. They don’t always know where they will sleep, what they will see, or even when they will stop. But one thing is for sure: they all love the feeling of freedom provided by the noise of the engine on the asphalt, and the unexpected events that will punctuate the journey. Because the goal of the road trip is not the destination, but the journey itself.

The essential elements of a road trip

For a good road trip, you need a road. It’s up to you to see if you like it winding, snowy, straight, foreign, far away… Anything is possible. The world is strewn with roads of all kinds, so do your research and go for it!

The vehicle

You will also need a vehicle. Here again, there are many possibilities. The purists will of course take a van fitted out like the mythical Volkswagen Combi. But there’s no shame in driving a simpler vehicle, such as your own car, or a rental car. If you can afford it, the motor-home is also a very practical solution, very popular with older people for the comfort it provides. Finally, thrill-seekers can of course opt for a motorcycle. It’s not the easiest vehicle, as there’s little storage space and the weather has a big influence on driving, but the motorcycle is definitely the most exhilarating.

The itinerary

Now that you have the main road and the vehicle, you need to prepare your trip to a minimum by establishing stopping points and places to sleep. With a converted van or a motor-home, the answer is more obvious, but you will still need to find authorised parking spaces or campsites. With a car or a motorcycle, you will need to anticipate your nights according to the weather conditions. If the weather is nice and warm, a hammock or a tent is enough to sleep under the stars. On the other hand, when it starts to get cold and wet, it is better to have a reliable place to stay, such as a motel or youth hostel.

All you need to do now is grab a bag with a few things in it, and that’s it! A road trip is above all a simple trip, during which you hit the road just for the pleasure of getting away. So don’t think too much, and let the road trip take you away.

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• Travel Guide

What Does Road Trip Mean

Published: December 7, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Noelyn Cato

• Plan Your Trip

Introduction

Embarking on a road trip is an adventure like no other. It offers the freedom to explore new places, create unforgettable memories, and experience the thrill of the open road. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or even solo, a road trip provides an opportunity to break free from the constraints of everyday life and immerse yourself in the wonders of the world.

But what exactly does “road trip” mean? A road trip is a journey taken by car, typically over a long distance, with various stops along the way. It is a chance to discover hidden gems, encounter breathtaking landscapes, and indulge in local cultures and cuisines. Road trips are not just about getting from point A to point B; they are about the journey itself.

The origins of road trips can be traced back to the early 20th century when the affordability and availability of automobiles made long-distance travel more accessible. What was once a luxury reserved for the wealthy quickly became a popular mode of exploration for people of all backgrounds. Today, road trips continue to capture the imagination of adventure seekers around the world.

From iconic routes like Route 66 in the United States to the Great Ocean Road in Australia, there is no shortage of incredible destinations to explore on a road trip. Each route offers its own unique charm, from picturesque coastal drives to winding mountain passes. Whether you prefer the excitement of cityscapes or the tranquility of nature, there is a road trip destination to suit every taste.

But what motivates people to embark on a road trip? For some, it is a chance to escape the monotony of daily life and embrace spontaneity. For others, it is an opportunity to reconnect with loved ones and create lasting memories. The allure of the unknown and the sense of freedom that comes with the open road are powerful driving forces.

There are numerous benefits to taking a road trip. It allows you to tailor your journey according to your preferences and explore at your own pace. You have the freedom to make unplanned stops and detours, discovering hidden gems along the way. A road trip also provides a sense of adventure and excitement, as you never know what surprises await you on the road.

In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the origins of road trips, popular road trip destinations, reasons for going on a road trip, and the benefits and essential items for a successful journey. So buckle up, and let’s embark on a road trip adventure!

Definition of Road Trip

A road trip is a form of travel where individuals or a group of people embark on a journey by car, covering long distances and making stops along the way. It is a flexible and adventurous way to explore different places, allowing travelers to soak in the scenery, discover hidden gems, and create unforgettable memories.

Unlike other forms of travel, such as flying or taking a train, a road trip offers the freedom to choose the route, destinations, and pace of travel. It allows travelers to deviate from the main roads and venture onto lesser-known routes, offering a sense of discovery and spontaneity.

While the duration of a road trip can vary, it typically involves traveling for several days or weeks. The journey is just as important as the destinations, as road trippers have the liberty to explore various attractions, landmarks, and natural wonders along the way.

A road trip is not limited to a specific type of vehicle. While cars are the most common choice, motorhomes, campervans, motorcycles, and even bicycles can be used to embark on a road trip. The choice of vehicle often depends on personal preferences, the duration of the trip, and the number of travelers.

It is important to note that a road trip is not purely about reaching a specific destination. It is about the entire experience of traveling by road, including the anticipation of the journey, the thrill of the open road, and the camaraderie shared among fellow travelers. The journey itself becomes an integral part of the adventure.

Road trips can take place within a country or across multiple countries, depending on the traveler’s preference. Some road trip enthusiasts embark on cross-country journeys, while others prefer exploring a particular region or following a specific route.

Ultimately, the essence of a road trip lies in the freedom it offers. It allows individuals to immerse themselves in the journey, connect with their surroundings, and experience a sense of adventure that is unique to this form of travel.

Origins of Road Trips

The origins of road trips can be traced back to the early 20th century when automobiles became more affordable and accessible to the general population. Prior to this, long-distance travel was predominantly done by train, with limited options for exploring on land. However, the rise of the automobile industry transformed the way people traveled and paved the way for the popularity of road trips.

In the early days of road travel, roads were basic and often unpaved, and accommodations and services for travelers were limited. Despite these challenges, adventurous individuals set out on long journeys by car, seeking the excitement of exploration and the freedom to set their own course.

One of the key factors that contributed to the growth of road trips was the construction of highways. The development of major highways and road networks, such as Route 66 in the United States, provided a direct and accessible route for travelers. These highways became iconic symbols of the freedom and adventure associated with road trips.

As the popularity of road trips grew, more amenities and services were established along major routes to cater to travelers. Motels, service stations, and roadside diners emerged, creating a unique roadside culture and sense of community among road trippers.

With the advent of the interstate highway system in the mid-20th century, road trips became even more accessible and popular. The interstate system connected cities and states, making it easier for travelers to embark on long-distance journeys with improved road conditions and infrastructure.

The appeal of road trips lies in the sense of discovery and adventure that comes with exploring unfamiliar territories. Road trippers can veer off the main highways and take detours to explore scenic routes, national parks, and small towns, immersing themselves in the local culture and way of life.

Today, road trips have evolved into an iconic form of travel, with people from all walks of life embracing the spirit of the open road. From solo travelers seeking self-discovery to families seeking quality time together, road trips offer a unique blend of freedom, adventure, and exploration.

As technology advances, road trip planning has become even easier with the help of GPS navigation systems, online travel resources, and mobile apps. However, the allure of the road trip remains the same – the freedom to chart your own course, discover hidden gems, and create unforgettable memories along the way.

Popular Road Trip Destinations

Road trips offer endless possibilities when it comes to choosing a destination. From scenic coastal drives to winding mountain roads, there are countless routes around the world that are perfect for an unforgettable road trip. Here are just a few popular road trip destinations that are sure to inspire wanderlust:

• Route 66, United States: Known as the “Mother Road,” Route 66 is an iconic road trip route that stretches across the United States, from Chicago to Santa Monica. This historic highway is famous for its retro motels, roadside attractions, and stunning landscapes.
• Great Ocean Road, Australia: Stretching along Australia’s scenic southern coast, the Great Ocean Road offers breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, beautiful beaches, and the famous Twelve Apostles rock formations.
• Ring Road, Iceland: Iceland’s Ring Road is a circular road that circles the entire country, showcasing stunning landscapes including waterfalls, glaciers, hot springs, and volcanic landscapes.
• Amalfi Coast, Italy: The winding coastal road of Italy’s Amalfi Coast offers panoramic views of colorful cliffside villages, turquoise waters, and picturesque landscapes.
• North Coast 500, Scotland: Scotland’s North Coast 500 is a scenic route that takes you through rugged mountains, beautiful lochs, seaside towns, and historic castles.
• The Garden Route, South Africa: South Africa’s Garden Route winds along the country’s eastern coast, offering stunning views of forests, mountains, lagoons, and wildlife reserves.

These are just a few examples of popular road trip destinations, but the beauty of road trips lies in the countless options available. Whether you’re seeking stunning natural landscapes, cultural exploration, or a combination of both, there’s a road trip destination out there that’s perfect for you.

Before embarking on your road trip, it’s essential to research the best routes and attractions along the way. Online resources, travel guides, and recommendations from fellow road trippers can help you plan a memorable journey full of breathtaking scenery, exciting adventures, and unforgettable experiences.

Reasons for Going on a Road Trip

Road trips have a special appeal that sets them apart from other forms of travel. The sense of freedom, adventure, and exploration they offer makes them a popular choice for travelers of all kinds. Here are some common reasons why people choose to embark on a road trip:

• Flexibility and Freedom: Road trips provide the freedom to choose your own route, make spontaneous stops, and explore at your own pace. You have the flexibility to deviate from the main roads and discover hidden gems off the beaten path. This level of control and independence allows you to tailor the trip to your preferences and discover new places along the way.
• Exploration and Discovery: Road trips offer the opportunity to explore new destinations and discover lesser-known attractions. You can visit small towns, national parks, scenic viewpoints, and cultural landmarks. Each stop along the journey presents a chance to immerse yourself in new environments and experience different cultures and cuisines.
• Bonding and Quality Time: Road trips provide an excellent opportunity to bond with family, friends, or travel companions. Being together in a car for extended periods fosters deeper conversations, shared experiences, and memorable moments. It’s a chance to disconnect from the distractions of everyday life and create lasting memories.
• Sense of Adventure: Road tripping is synonymous with adventure. The thrill of the open road, the anticipation of what lies ahead, and the excitement of exploring new places all contribute to the sense of adventure that comes with a road trip. Unexpected encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and the unknown make each day of the journey exciting and full of possibilities.
• Connecting with Nature: Road trips often take you through stunning natural landscapes, from majestic mountains and winding coastlines to vibrant forests and serene lakes. The opportunity to connect with nature and experience its wonders firsthand is a major draw for many road trippers. Whether it’s camping under the stars, hiking through national parks, or swimming in secluded lakes, a road trip allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world.
• Creative Inspiration: Road trips can offer a change of scenery and a break from routine, providing the perfect environment for creative inspiration. The sights, sounds, and experiences encountered along the journey can spark new ideas, ignite artistic pursuits, and encourage personal growth. Many writers, photographers, and artists find road trips to be a catalyst for their creativity.

These are just a few reasons why people choose to go on road trips. Each individual may have their own unique motivation, but the common thread that unites road trippers is the desire for adventure, freedom, and new experiences. Regardless of the reason, a road trip promises an extraordinary journey filled with discovery, connection, and unforgettable moments.

Benefits of Taking a Road Trip

Embarking on a road trip offers numerous benefits that contribute to a fulfilling and memorable travel experience. Whether you’re traveling alone, with friends, or with family, here are some key advantages of taking a road trip:

• Flexibility and Independence: One of the most significant benefits of a road trip is the freedom and flexibility it provides. Unlike other forms of travel, you have control over the route, schedule, and duration of your journey. You can make spontaneous stops, take detours, and explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, allowing you to create a personalized and unique adventure.
• Opportunity for Exploration: Road trips allow you to explore a wide range of destinations and attractions along the way. You can visit famous landmarks, natural wonders, historical sites, and cultural hotspots. The journey itself becomes part of the exploration, as you drive through diverse landscapes, encounter local communities, and discover hidden gems that may not be accessible by other means of transportation.
• Connection with Nature: Road trips often take you through scenic routes and breathtaking landscapes. Whether it’s driving along coastal roads, navigating mountain passes, or cruising through lush forests, the opportunity to connect with nature is abundant. You can go hiking, camping, or simply enjoy the beauty of the surroundings from the comfort of your vehicle.
• Bonding and Quality Time: Road trips provide an excellent opportunity to spend quality time with travel companions. Being in close proximity for an extended period encourages deeper conversations, shared experiences, and unforgettable moments. It’s a chance to strengthen relationships, create lifelong memories, and enjoy each other’s company without the distractions of daily life.
• Cultural Immersion: Road trips offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture of the places you visit. You can interact with locals, try regional cuisine, and experience the traditions and customs of different communities. Road trips allow for a more in-depth understanding and appreciation of the diverse cultures and lifestyles found along the journey.
• Flexibility in Accommodations: Road trips provide the flexibility to choose different types of accommodations according to your preferences and budget. You can opt for hotel stays, campgrounds, or even sleep in your vehicle if you’re equipped for it. This flexibility allows you to tailor your trip to suit your comfort level and the desired level of adventure.
• Self-Discovery and Reflection: Road trips offer an opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth. The time spent on the road allows for introspection, as well as a break from the pressures of daily life. It’s a chance to disconnect from technology, appreciate the present moment, and gain a deeper understanding of oneself and the world.

These are just a few of the many benefits of taking a road trip. The combination of freedom, exploration, connection, and personal growth makes road tripping a rewarding and transformative experience.

Planning a Successful Road Trip

Planning is key to ensuring a successful and enjoyable road trip. Taking the time to organize and prepare beforehand can help minimize potential challenges and maximize your overall experience. Here are some essential steps to consider when planning a road trip:

• Choose the Right Destination: Start by selecting a destination or route that aligns with your interests and preferences. Research different road trip destinations, consider the time of year, and take into account the duration of your trip. Whether you prefer scenic coastal drives, mountainous landscapes, or cultural hotspots, choose a destination that excites you.
• Create a Flexible Itinerary: While spontaneity is part of the appeal of road trips, it’s important to have a general itinerary in place. Identify the key attractions and landmarks you want to visit along the way. However, be flexible and open to changing your plans as you discover new places and experiences.
• Consider the Duration and Pace: Determine the duration of your road trip and consider your desired pace of travel. Take into account the distance you’ll be covering each day and factor in rest days to avoid exhaustion. Balancing exploration and relaxation is crucial to enjoying a successful road trip.
• Ensure Proper Vehicle Maintenance: Before hitting the road, ensure that your vehicle is in good condition. Get a thorough inspection, check the tires, brakes, and fluids, and make any necessary repairs or maintenance. A reliable vehicle is essential for a safe and hassle-free journey.
• Pack Smart and Efficiently: Plan your packing carefully, considering essential items such as clothing, toiletries, maps or GPS, entertainment, and snacks. Pack efficiently to maximize space and make sure to include any required documents, insurance, and roadside assistance information.
• Research Accommodations: If you prefer to have accommodations booked in advance, research and book hotels or campgrounds along your route. However, if you prefer a more spontaneous approach, be aware of peak travel seasons and have a backup plan in case certain accommodations are fully booked.
• Plan for Meals and Snacks: Research food options along your route and identify places where you can stop for meals or stock up on snacks. Consider local specialties or famous eateries for a unique culinary experience.
• Set a Realistic Budget: Establish a budget for your road trip, taking into account expenses such as fuel, accommodations, meals, attractions, and unexpected costs. It’s important to have a clear understanding of your financial limitations to avoid overspending during your journey.
• Prepare for Emergencies: Pack a roadside emergency kit that includes a spare tire, tools, first aid supplies, and a roadside assistance contact number. Familiarize yourself with emergency services along your route and have a plan in case unexpected situations arise.
• Stay Flexible and Enjoy the Journey: While planning is crucial, it’s important to remain flexible and open to unexpected adventures and detours. Embrace the spontaneity and immerse yourself in the joy of the journey. Remember, road trips are as much about the unexpected as they are about the planned experiences.

By following these planning tips, you can set yourself up for a smooth and enjoyable road trip. The more prepared you are, the more you can relax and fully embrace the freedom and adventure that comes with hitting the open road.

Essential Items to Pack for a Road Trip

Packing for a road trip requires careful consideration to ensure you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable journey. While the specific items you pack may vary depending on your destination and personal preferences, here are some essential items to include:

• Identification and Documents: Carry your driver’s license, vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and any necessary travel documents. It’s also advisable to have a photocopy or digital backup of these documents.
• Navigation Devices: Make sure to pack a GPS device or have navigation apps on your smartphone or tablet. Familiarize yourself with your preferred navigation tool before starting your trip.
• Road Maps and Guidebooks: Even with advanced technology, it’s wise to have physical maps and guidebooks as a backup. They come in handy when you’re out of cellular coverage or need a broader view of your route.
• Emergency Kit: Pack an emergency kit that includes a first aid kit, flashlight, extra batteries, roadside flares, jumper cables, a multipurpose tool, and a spare tire in good condition. It’s essential to be prepared for any vehicle emergencies along the way.
• Sufficient Clothing: Pack clothes suitable for the weather conditions you anticipate encountering during your road trip. Include layers, comfortable footwear, and rain gear, as weather can be unpredictable.
• Toiletries: Bring a toiletry bag with essentials such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, conditioner, and any other personal care items you typically use.
• Food and Snacks: Pack non-perishable snacks such as granola bars, nuts, dried fruit, and crackers to keep hunger at bay between meals. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during long stretches of driving.
• Entertainment and Communication: Prepare entertainment options for the journey, such as your favorite books, music playlists, podcasts, or audiobooks. Additionally, consider bringing a portable charger, a car charger adapter, and any necessary cables for your electronic devices.
• Camping and Outdoor Gear (if applicable): If camping or engaging in outdoor activities is part of your road trip plan, pack a tent, camping stove, sleeping bags, camping chairs, and any other gear required for your specific activities.
• Reusable Water Bottles and Grocery Bags: Reduce waste and stay eco-friendly by packing reusable water bottles and grocery bags. This way, you can refill your bottles and avoid single-use plastics.
• Cash and Credit Cards: Carry enough cash for emergencies and situations where card payments may not be accepted. Having a mix of cash and credit cards ensures you’re prepared for various payment scenarios.
• Camera and Chargers: Capture memories of your road trip, whether with a digital camera or your smartphone. Remember to pack the necessary charging cables and backup batteries.

Remember to pack these items in a way that allows for easy access, especially for essentials like identification, maps, and emergency items. Additionally, consider the storage capacity of your vehicle and pack accordingly to ensure a comfortable and organized trip. With these essential items packed, you’ll be well-prepared for a successful road trip.

Road Trip Safety Tips

Ensuring safety is of paramount importance when going on a road trip. Here are some essential tips to help you stay safe and have a smooth journey:

• Prepare Your Vehicle: Before setting off, get a thorough vehicle inspection and make any necessary repairs. Check the tire pressure, oil levels, brakes, and windshield wipers. Ensure that your vehicle is in good condition to handle the demands of a long drive.
• Follow Traffic Rules: Obey traffic laws, including speed limits, traffic signals, and road signs. Pay attention to other vehicles around you and be respectful of their space. Adhering to traffic rules reduces the risk of accidents and keeps you and others safe.
• Stay Alert and Avoid Fatigue: Driver fatigue can be dangerous. Get enough rest before the trip, take regular breaks during long drives, and avoid driving late at night. If you feel tired or drowsy, pull over in a safe area and take a nap or switch drivers.
• Wear Seatbelts: Seatbelt use is essential for all occupants of the vehicle. Ensure that everyone is buckled up, regardless of seating position. Seatbelts significantly reduce the risk of injuries in case of an accident.
• Stay Focused and Minimize Distractions: Avoid distractions while driving, such as texting, using your phone, eating, or engaging in activities that take your attention away from the road. Keep your focus on driving to maintain control of the vehicle and react to unexpected situations.
• Plan Rest Stops: Long drives can be tiring, so plan regular rest stops to stretch your legs, use the restroom, and take a break from driving. It’s important to stay refreshed and alert during the journey.
• Be Prepared for Emergencies: Carry a roadside emergency kit that includes a first aid kit, tools, a spare tire, and a flashlight. Familiarize yourself with emergency services along your route and have a plan in case of a breakdown or other unexpected situations.
• Keep Important Contacts Handy: Save emergency contact numbers for roadside assistance, local authorities, and your insurance company in your phone or write them down. It’s essential to have them easily accessible in case of an emergency.
• Stay Informed about Weather Conditions: Check weather forecasts for the areas you’ll be traveling through and be prepared for potential weather changes. Adjust your driving and route planning accordingly to avoid hazardous conditions.
• Share your Itinerary: Inform a trusted person about your road trip plans, including your destination, route, and expected arrival times. Regularly communicate your progress and any changes in your itinerary. This ensures someone knows your whereabouts in case of an emergency.
• Trust Your Instincts: If you encounter suspicious situations or feel uncomfortable, trust your instincts. Avoid unsafe areas and exercise caution when interacting with strangers. Your safety should always be a priority.

By following these safety tips, you can minimize risks and enhance your road trip experience. Remember, safety should never be compromised, as it ensures that you and your fellow travelers reach your destination safely while making lasting memories along the way.

A road trip offers an unparalleled sense of adventure, freedom, and exploration. It is a chance to embark on a journey of discovery, immersing oneself in the beauty of the open road and the wonders of the world. From scenic coastal drives to winding mountain roads, road trips provide endless opportunities to create unforgettable memories, forge deep connections, and experience the thrill of the unknown.

In this article, we have explored the definition of a road trip, delved into its origins, and highlighted popular road trip destinations around the world. We have discussed the reasons why people choose to go on a road trip, including the flexibility, adventure, and bonding opportunities it offers. Additionally, we have examined the benefits of taking a road trip, from the freedom to explore at your own pace to the chance to connect with nature and spark creative inspiration.

Furthermore, we have provided insights into planning a successful road trip, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right destination, creating a flexible itinerary, and ensuring the proper maintenance of your vehicle. We have also discussed essential items to pack, road trip safety tips, and the significance of staying focused, alert, and prepared for emergencies.

As you embark on your next road trip, remember to embrace the journey itself, savoring each moment and relishing in the experiences along the way. Be open to detours and spontaneous adventures, for it is often the unexpected that leads to the most remarkable memories. Whether you travel solo, with loved ones, or with newfound companions, a road trip is an opportunity to reconnect with the world and yourself.

So, pack your bags, buckle up, and hit the open road. Let the winds of wanderlust guide you onto new horizons, as you discover the beauty of the world, one mile at a time.

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Example sentences road trip

It's the third and final week of their road trip .

His perfect holiday is a road trip around California in a Mustang convertible.

Go for a road trip , but make it out of season.

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What Is a Road Trip? The American Tradition 

• Date: August 3, 2022
• Time to read: 7 min.

Definition of a Road Trip 

A road trip is any trip that requires at least one stop for bathroom, snacks, and/or gas AND involves spending at least one night somewhere else.  

Naturally, people have a variety of opinions, but there are some simple reasons for this definition.  If you don’t have to stop in the middle, it’s not a road trip.  It’s a commute.  If you return home within the same day, it’s a day trip, not a road trip. 

Road trips take long enough to require a driving break and last long enough to require travelers to spend a night away from home.  

The ideal road trip lasts between 2 and 7 nights.

Road Trip Traditions

Road trips are America’s way of making memories together.  Whether you’re planning a family reunion, solitude time in nature, or a bachelorette party, the road trip is the means of making it happen.  

Part of the reason road trips are so memorable is that they allow people to experience the joys and the struggles of the journey together.   Spending time together driving gives everyone time together and shared memories. 

Road trip memories occur both at the destination and the journey to get there .

For every time the toddler asks “Are we there yet?” is a time your best friend reveals a huge part of her story or a time your high schooler opens his eyes in wonder at the magnificence of nature. 

In 2007, four of my friends piled into my Honda Civic as we drove to a retreat for our campus ministry.  This was eight years before I had a smartphone, which meant my navigation was entirely based on previously received directions and the occasional, turning into frequent, phone call along the way.  

Fifteen years later, I don’t remember much about the retreat itself.  I remember the road trip to get there very well.  What should have been a 90-minute drive turned into 4.5 hours of 7 u-turns, 90’s Disney music sing-a-longs, an emergency bathroom stop after a giant milkshake, and dodging raccoons. 

These kinds of road trips support the idea that the journey is more important than the destination.  

Road Trip Food

The most popular road trip snacks are beef jerky, trail mix and twizzlers, but some travelers prefer veggies and hummus, anchovies and sandwiches. 

You can check out this list of 200 of the most popular road trip snacks for more ideas. 

People typically think of junk food when they think of the stereotypical road trip.  

If your health-conscious, you obviously don’t have to follow those patterns.  And you also don’t have to settle with just trail mix as a kind of compromise between nutrition and sugar.  

With a little planning, you can prep or find convenient, creative, and healthy protein, carbs, and fiber for a road trip.

You can even cook on a road trip! We love to use the Hot Logic portable oven to make food from scratch while traveling .  

You can find more detailed content about healthy road trip ideas to combat road trip hunger cravings here in one of our other posts. 

Summer Road Trips

Road trips are most popular in the summer because of the long break from school. 

The classic road trip typically involves the whole family, making summer the ideal season for road trips because kids are typically out of school. 

The weather is generally nicer across the country, making any destination at least accessible and in many cases attractive .  

Snow makes traveling dangerous in some parts of the country in winter months. North Dakota in February? No road trips for you unless you plan on traveling in a snow plow.

Montana in July? Much better. 

Of course, in many southern states, the pattern is reversed, while the beaches are still very popular the heat makes it difficult to enjoy the outdoors. Try Georgia in the winter instead of the brutal heat and humidity of August.   

Florida in August is brutal.  The whole state is a sauna. 

But if you go in December, the temperature and humidity are much less oppressive.

Family Road Trips

Road trips are often a family vacation because it can be much cheaper than flying with a larger group. It is a great way to have a budget vacation. 

A family drive to the beach or National Park is a memorable low cost trip. 

A family road trip can also be a drive to visit family. I know I grew up traveling 12 hours every year to visit my grandparents. 

For some families, a road trip may mean driving five hours to the beach to see grandparents.  For other families, a road trip means embracing adventure by always exploring somewhere new. 

National Park Road Trips 

National parks are excellent road trip destinations for the families that love exploration.  A few years ago, my dad took a sabbatical from work and really enjoyed some of the national parks in the midwest.  

National Parks offer educational experiences and programs the whole family can enjoy and incredible places, hike, kayak, stargaze or camp. 

National Parks have a program for kids called The Jr. Ranger Program that allows kids to collect badges and do activities at most of the parks. 

National Parks are popular destinations for Americans and visiting tourists. These are often bucket list items. 

You can very easily find a national park in your state if you prefer a shorter road trip instead of a gas-sucking marathon.  The National Park Service lets you search for parks by state, and every state has multiple .  

What Do You Call A Road Trip?

The definition I typically use for a road trip is any trip that requires at least one stop for bathroom, snacks, and/or gas AND involves spending at least one night somewhere else.  If you don’t have to stop, it’s not a road trip.  It’s a commute.  If you return within the same day, it’s a day trip, not a road trip. 

Naturally, people have a variety of opinions on this one, but you’ll find that most people tend to agree on some common themes in road trips, typically about stops, destinations, and time spent both on the road or away from home.

How Long Is a Road Trip?

The length of the road trip is probably the most divisive.  People tend to agree about needing to spend at least one night away from home to avoid it being called a day trip, but that still leaves a lot of gray area.  

One strategy is to distinguish the “technical” minimum for a road trip from the ideal road trip.

A road trip that lasts a weekend could meet the definition of a road trip, but people might easily refer to the experience colloquially as a weekend trip.  

So, a road trip can be as short as two days, but an ideal road trip would last three or more . 

Are Road Trips An American Thing?

Road trips are an American thing.  Europeans travel as much if not more than Americans, but gas (they call it petrol) is more expensive in Europe, and many European cities are not designed for heavy car traffic.  As such, Europeans tend to use interrail (what Americans would call a train) much more often for leisure travel and sightseeing.

A common rugged example would be a European hopping on the interrail and spending a week or two sightseeing in different countries, staying at backpacker hostels along the way.  

By contrast, American road trips involve people driving themselves to their destinations , meaning that train travel or any other public transportation use would not meet that definition.

Vehicles in America are also often larger and designed for long drives and multiple occupants. These large vehicles are less common outside the US. 

That doesn’t mean Europeans can’t take road trips, of course, but many of the conversations on reddit, for example, about road trips in Europe are often being planned by people coming from outside Europe.  

Why Are Road Trips So Popular?

Road trips embody our yearning to connect with each other, ourselves, and the environment by exploring something new.   

That exploration could be as organic as spending time in nature or culture-based in meeting new people.  

American movies from multiple genres hit on many of these points.  Road trip movies range from the coming of age film Almost Famous in 2000, across character transformations in Rain Man from 1988, all the way to the delightfully stupid Dumb and Dumber in 1994.  

None of these movies, good or bad, have to be your basis for evaluating the joy of your road trip obviously.  With the right food, people, music, and destination, your road trip can be a meaningful and memorable experience.  

You can find some tips and tricks for road trip planning here .

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Is Going on a Road Trip Right For You?

The idea of hopping in a car and setting off into the horizon on a Kerouacian adventure is a timeless notion for the ultimate vacation: exploring the rugged scenery, visiting pristine landscapes, and sleeping in a new place every night. The reality of a road trip is that it actually requires a significant amount of planning , especially for long trips that span several days and cover hundreds—if not thousands—of miles.

Traveling by car has a lot of unique benefits, but you also have to consider the drawbacks before deciding if a road trip is the right vacation for you. Cost and time are two of the most important factors but are by no means the only ones. Weight out these considerations before you set off.

Reasons to Go on a Road Trip

You are in charge.

You control your departure time, arrival time, itinerary, and stops along the way . You don't have to pay attention to train schedules or airline routes as you plan your trip. If you see something interesting on the side of the road, you can stop and take a look. This freedom and flexibility of traveling by car is perhaps the biggest perk of a road trip, and its value can't be overstated.

You Can Change Your Mind

If you don't like a particular place, you can just drive away. There's no waiting for the next flight or hassling over train schedules. Last-minute decisions are easy to make and they don't have to throw off your entire trip. In the same vein, it's just as easy to stay somewhere you're really enjoying. Maybe what was supposed to be a quick pitstop ends up being a place with a lot of potential that you want to explore more. No problem, just stay.

You Can See the Real World

Taking a road trip allows you to get off the beaten path and see actual communities and natural wonders, not just a train track or a view from 36,000 feet. Meandering through the countryside is a great way to relax and find out what it's really like to live in a particular area. Farmers' markets, local festivals, and state parks are yours to explore.

You Can Pack Anything That Fits Into Your Trunk

You can use the back seat, too. You don't have to pay extra to bring the items you need, either. If you plan to bring camping gear or sports equipment, packing it in a car is easier than transporting it by bus or train. Just make sure you have a safe way to lock up valuable items. A car that appears to be overflowing with goods can be an easy target for theft.

You Can Save Money

Even when you factor in wear and tear on your car, going on a road trip can be a frugal way to travel, especially if you're traveling with a group. Taking four people somewhere by car is usually less expensive than buying four round-trip airplane, bus, or train tickets. You can split the costs for gas and hotel rooms, or if you're camping it could be even cheaper. Since you have the freedom to stop and eat wherever you like, you can choose affordable restaurants or pick-up items in a local grocery store to eat in the car.

Reasons to Think Twice About a Road Trip

Driving takes time.

Driving is one of the slowest ways to travel between two points, especially between large cities with good rail and airline service. If you are planning a city-to-city trip, you can save a lot of time by taking the train or flying to your destination.

You Have to Do All the Work

From route planning and prepping your car to navigation and spending hours behind the wheel, it's all up to you. Trip planning is always a big task, but road trip planning requires even more forethought and organization. Sometimes it is easier to let someone else do the planning—and the driving. It's exhausting to be behind the wheel for hours at a time, especially if you'll be on the road for days. Having multiple drivers in the car helps to alleviate that, so share the responsibilities if you can.

You Have to Park the Car

In some cities, finding parking can be very difficult. High city parking rates are not fun to deal with, either, and can quickly eat up any cost savings you've gained by taking the car. If you're planning to be in smaller towns or natural areas, you shouldn't have as much of a problem. But if any one of your pitstops is a big city, plan ahead and research the cheapest and safest parking options for your car.

Traveling by Car Can Be Expensive

For solo travelers, in particular, taking a road trip might not save you money, especially when you factor in gas , tolls , parking, meals, and lodging along the way. In fact, depending on the length of the trip and where you stay, it can end up being much more costly than having taken another form of transportation. Even if you make a strict budget, unexpected costs such as a hapless breakdown can really throw a wrench at you.

Wear and Tear on Your Car Costs Money

You don't have to only worry about breakdowns, but also general wear and tear on your car. Long trips can really do damage to a vehicle, especially if it's an older model. If your car isn't up to the journey, you might be better off renting a vehicle instead.

You Have to Get Back

Planning your big road trip sounds fantastic and fun, but don't forget you have to get back to where you started. Unless you're in a situation where you can leave your car at the destination, you'll have to drive back to the starting point as well. Make sure you're mentally prepared not only for the initial journey but also for repeating it almost immediately after. However, you can make this easier by taking a different route home to shake things up.

Making Your Road Trip Decision

It is always a good idea to break out your trusty calculator and add up your travel costs before deciding how to get to your destination. Traveling by car is not necessarily the cheapest or easiest way to go. You may decide that time is more important than money. In this case, flying might be your best option. Taking the train might be a better choice for city-to-city travel, especially if you will not need a car at your destination.

In the end, the most important consideration is the type of trip that you're looking for. Faster transports are for those who want the destination city to be the vacation. But if you care more about the journey, then driving is the best way to truly experience not just point A and point B, but the infinite number of places between them. Even if it takes more time or ends up costing more, perhaps it's worth it.

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Road Trip Lingo & Slang That Everyone Needs To Know

RV Lifestyle

If you’re considering integrating into the camping and RV lifestyle , there is a wide variety of road trip jargon and slang that you need to know. Those who don’t learn the vocabulary and slang will likely find it more difficult to fully experience RV living or traveling.  Of course, the team at Cruise America understands that modern phrases and terms change all the time, but some staples have stuck around for decades and are likely to stick around for decades more. So, if you’re eager to brush up on road trips slang and lingo, continue reading to learn more.  What Are Road Trip Slang, Phrases, and Terms You Need To Know? 

Below we’ve compiled a brief glossary of the common cross-country road trip slang, phrases, and terms you need to know if you’re a newcomer to road-tripping in a motorhome. If you keep this list on hand, you’re likely to encounter fewer issues on the road. 

Airstream: A specific motorhome with a metal tube appearance but is made out of polished aluminum. 

Boondocking: This phrase is slang for camping off-grid in an RV that has its own power, water, and other utilities. Those who boondock do so deep in the wilderness where there aren’t many utilities. 

Black tank: The term black tank refers to the wastewater holding tank in an RV.

Baecation: This is a slang term used by those on vacation or road-tripping with their significant other. 

Bleisure: When an individual is road tripping but is going on a trip that is part pleasure and part business, they refer to it as a bleisure. 

BLM: The abbreviation BLM stands for “Bureau of Land Management,” a governmental department that manages public lands many RVers camp on. 

Cabover: This phrase refers to the compartment over the cabin area in class C that is used as a bunkhouse.

Class A: The biggest motorhome type that can comfortably sleep up to 10 people. Also usually the most expensive.

Class B: A campervan that usually sleeps between two to four people.

Class C: A motorized RV sized between Class A and Class B. It usually sleeps between four to six people and has the best depreciation rate.

Dogbone: The electrical adapter that connects a motorhome to an appropriate electrical outlet is called a dogbone.

Diesel pusher: This is a term used to describe Class A motorhomes that have diesel engines equipped in their rear. The “pusher” part states that the engine pushes the Class A.

Extended Stay Site: A campsite where RVers and campers can stay for long periods. Usually months or entire seasons. 

Familymoon: This is a term used to describe a recently married couple going on a honeymoon with their children. 

Full-timers: Those who stay in their RVs year-round are known as full-timers . These people have committed to RV living. 

Fifth wheel: A type of large non-motorized towable motorhome that comes in various sizes and often has a cargo area or garage. 

Gasser: A motorhome with a gasoline-powered engine is called a gasser. 

Genny: This is an abbreviation of the word generator. 

Honey Wagon: A honey wagon is a trailer or truck that pumps waste from campgrounds, RV dump stations , and truck stops. These wagons have large liquid holding tanks to hold the waste.

Hose Bib: A campsite faucet that has fresh, drinkable water. 

Jake brake: This refers to the engine brake used on some diesel motorhomes. 

King Pin: the cylinder-shaped piece hanging at the front of a fifth-wheel trailer is known as a king pin, and it connects at the back of a tow vehicle to the jaws of a fifth-wheel hitch.

KOA: This abbreviation refers to popular franchised family-friendly campgrounds . 

Leveling: A term used by RVers who want to ensure their RV is leveled correctly on all sides at a campground. 

Mooch docking: Unlike boondocking, mooch docking is the term used by those who want to mooch off family and friends by parking at their house or using their utilities. 

NP: The abbreviation NP is what people use when talking about National Parks . You’ll see this often when camping or looking for places to visit. 

Newbie: An individual that is new to the RV world.

PP: The abbreviation PP stands for Provincial Park, and you’ll come across it often when boondocking. 

Pop-up camper: This type of motorhome “pops” open during assembly making it easy to tow and stow. 

Rig: When someone refers to their rig, they talk about their motorhome. A rig is another term for an RV. 

SP: The abbreviation SP stands for State Park, and you’ll come across this term often when exploring different campgrounds.

Snowbirds: RVers who spend their summers in the north and winters in the south are known as snowbirds. Essentially RVers who chase warm weather are known as snowbirds .

Sandipump: This term combines the word sanitation and dump, and it refers to a place where you can dump your sanitation. 

Stinky Slinky: A stinky slinky is what many people call a sewer hose that drains your holding tanks into a waste dump. 

Sticks and Bricks: This is a term part-time RVers use to let others know they have a residential home away from their RV. 

Schoolie: Schoolies are converted old school buses that have been made into motorhomes. 

TV (Tow Vehicle): TV is an abbreviation used by RVers to explain which car is their motorhome towing vehicle. 

TT (Travel Trailer): When someone says they have a TT, they are referring to owning a travel trailer that comes in multiple sizes, with some more upscale than others. Travel trailers hook onto the back of a towing vehicle. 

TPMs: This abbreviation stands for Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

TOAD: This slang phrase refers to a vehicle that is towed behind one’s motorhome and used to drive around town while an RV stays stationary. 

Toy Hauler: This is a specific motorhome type with a garage or cargo area for outdoor equipment and toys. 

Wallydocking: When you choose to park overnight at a Walmart parking lot to capitalize on free overnight camping, you’re wallydocking. 

Wheel Chocks: Wheel chocks are used to prevent an RV from rolling. This RV equipment is often made of plastic or wood. 

Winnie: RV slang for a Winnebago camper. 

Yamping: A slang term used to describe someone who is camping in another individual’s driveway. 

With this extensive road trip lingo and slang glossary fresh in your mind, you’re ready to take to the streets in an RV rental . Get in touch with Cruise America if you want to reserve a motorhome rental for your next road trip. The reservation process is straightforward, and you can fetch your rental from any of our convenient locations . Your adventure awaits!

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What Is Road Trip Mean?

By Robert Palmer

Road trips are a popular way to travel and explore different destinations while enjoying the journey on the road. Whether you are traveling solo, with family, or friends, road trips offer a unique experience that cannot be replicated by other forms of travel. In this article, we will explore what road trips mean and why they continue to be a favorite among travelers.

What Is A Road Trip?

Simply put, a road trip is a journey taken by car or any other vehicle on the road. It involves traveling from one destination to another with stops along the way to enjoy the scenery or attractions. Unlike other modes of travel such as flying or taking a train, road trips allow for more flexibility and control over the itinerary.

Why Take A Road Trip?

Road trips offer many advantages that make them appealing to travelers. Firstly, they offer an opportunity to see different parts of the country or region that may not be accessible through other modes of transport.

Secondly, they allow for more freedom and flexibility in terms of itinerary planning and can be tailored according to personal preferences. Thirdly, road trips provide an opportunity to bond with fellow travelers and create lasting memories.

Planning A Road Trip

Before embarking on a road trip, it is essential to plan ahead to ensure that everything goes smoothly. Some key things to consider when planning include:

• Choosing destinations: Decide on the places you want to visit along your route and plan your itinerary accordingly.
• Selecting accommodation: Research and book accommodation in advance for each destination you plan on stopping at.
• Packing essentials: Make sure you have all necessary items such as snacks, water, maps/GPS navigation systems.
• Safety measures: Ensure that your vehicle is in good condition before leaving for your trip.

Popular Road Trip Destinations

There are many popular road trip destinations across the world, with some of the most famous ones being:

• Route 66, USA: This iconic route spans over 2,400 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles and passes through some of America’s most scenic landscapes.
• Garden Route, South Africa: This route takes you through a beautiful stretch of coastline and offers opportunities for whale watching and wildlife sightings.
• The Great Ocean Road, Australia: This scenic drive along the southern coast of Australia offers breathtaking views of the ocean and rugged coastline.

In Conclusion

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© 2024 LuxuryTraveldiva

What is a Road Trip? Simple Steps Towards an Awesome Family Adventure

As people, we are in an interesting situation in our lives. We are coming out of Covid but still living with it. And we are eager to return to ‘normal’ life, doing what we used to do, but not quite the same.  

For many of us, that is getting back on the road and seeing things we had to put off.  Perhaps you have come of age and are looking for an adventure. Or you are a young family looking to explore the country.  Sure, you could fly to your destination, but that’s not what we’re about here; we are about driving to our destination…safely.  

That brings us to the question, what is a road trip ?  Wikipedia defines it as “A road trip, sometimes spelled roadtrip, is a long-distance journey on the road. Typically, road trips are long distances traveled by automobile.”

Merriam-Webster defines it as an extended trip taken by a motor vehicle.  And yes, these definitions are technically accurate.  But a road trip is so much more than that.  It’s almost impossible to define.  

What is a roadtrip? A road trip is what you make it. It can be a family vacation.  It can be two friends driving cross country.  It can be a couple getting away for a few days.  A road trip is all of these things and more.

Yes, while a road trip technically is a long drive in an automobile.  It is more than that.  You form memories and experiences by taking a road trip. 

The last trip I took with my dad was driving cross country from New York to California .  You can’t replace driving I-80 across the continental divide in Wyoming at sunset when Tom Petty’s ‘ Learning to Fly ‘ comes on the radio.  That was 25 years ago, and I remember that moment fondly.

Is Road Tripping Worth it?

Is road-tripping worth it? That’s a question that many people are asking themselves lately. With the COVID pandemic still fresh in our minds, some people hesitate to hit the open road. But road-tripping has pros and cons, and it all depends on your circumstances.

There are a number of reasons why road-tripping can be worth it. For one, it’s a great way to see the country. You can explore small towns and villages that you would never have access to if you were flying.

You can take your time seeing everything without having to worry about making tight connections or getting lost in a foreign city. Additionally, road-tripping is often more affordable than flying. You don’t have to pay for airfare; you can save money on food and lodging by cooking your own meals and camping out instead of staying in hotels.

However, there are also some downsides to road tripping .

It can be expensive if you don’t plan ahead properly, and it can be time-consuming as well. When planning a road trip, You must think about food, gas, lodging, and entertainment expenses.

If something goes wrong, like a flat tire or a breakdown, it can ruin your whole trip. Additionally, road-tripping can be stressful, especially if you’re not used to driving long distances (or being stuck with your loved ones in a confined space for long periods!).

So, Is road tripping worth it? Ultimately, it depends on what you’re looking for in a vacation. Suppose you want to save money and have the flexibility to explore at your own pace. In that case, road-tripping is definitely worth considering.

What Makes a Great Road Trip? 6 Essential Road Tripping Tips

There’s no question that road trips can be a lot of fun. But what makes a road trip great? What are the ingredients for an unforgettable journey? We think six things are essential for any great road trip.

1. A Good Destination : The first and most important ingredient for a great road trip is a good destination. You need to choose a place that you will enjoy, whether it’s a scenic route through the mountains or a city filled with cultural attractions. If you’re not sure where to go, do some research online or ask friends for recommendations – we have a huge range of destination ideas here.

2. Choose the Right Vehicle : Choosing the right vehicle is one of the most important things for a road trip. You need something reliable, and that can handle long distances – make sure your vehicle is well-maintained and serviced before taking a road trip. If you’re not sure what car is best for your trip, ask your friends or family for advice, or do some research online. We discuss more of our favorite road trip vehicles over here.

3. Plan Your Route : Planning your route is important once you’ve chosen your destination. This will help you avoid getting lost and ensure you see all the places you want to see and build in some meal and rest stops. You can use online tools like Google Maps or Road Trippers to create a custom map of your trip – we share several more itinerary ideas over here.

4. A Flexible Schedule : One of the best things about road trips is that they are flexible. You can stop and explore whenever something catches your eye, and there’s no need to worry about making tight connections or getting lost in a foreign city. This flexibility also allows you to take your time and enjoy the journey without having to rush from one destination to another – though do be mindful of peak vacation periods when accommodation and attractions can be booked out in advance.

5. Bring Plenty of Supplies : Packing the right items is another key ingredient for a great road trip. Make sure you have snacks , drinks, and maps handy, as well as a first-aid kit in case of emergencies. And remember sunscreen and hats if you’re traveling in summer! We have a complete list of family road trip essentials over here.

6. Good Company: Last but not least, you need good company for a great road trip. Choose travel companions who share your interests and who you get along with well. This will make the journey all the more enjoyable. And well, if they’re your own offspring… We have plenty more tips for road-tripping with your kids with top tips and tactics for those long drives!

Final Thoughts…

Taking a road trip is definitely worth it – you get to see things you haven’t seen before, make memories that will last a lifetime, and have an adventure. Just be sure to plan ahead so your road trip is as great as it can be.

Follow our blog for more great tips on how to have a successful road trip with your family!

© Family Road Trip 2024

About Family Road Trip

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Vermont’s natural beauty is beyond compare, and there is no better way to enjoy the lush forests, majestic mountains, and beautiful foliage than by traveling along its scenic byways. So whether you’re planning future road trips in Vermont or only want to spend an afternoon exploring, there’s a route to satisfy everyone. What we love most about Vermont scenic drives is that you can take most of them year-round, by car or motorcycle, and you don’t have to worry…

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5 Tips for Making Driving with Kids More Peaceful for Everyone, According to RV Families

These full-time RV families (including Family of Nomads and RV Family Reno) give their best tips to keep the "are we there yets" to a minimum

The Wanderpreneurs

Once upon a time, family road trips were all but guaranteed to feature a few recurring elements: sibling bickering, the license plate game, and the phrase “Are we there yet?” on repeat.

Built-in movie screens, tablets, and other digital entertainment have helped make long car rides a little more bearable, but they’re not always foolproof for keeping the kids engaged. Now that road trip season is in full swing, we turned to the experts: Parents who traverse the U.S. with their children, clocking in hours on the highway in an RV.

Read on for their best tips on how to keep everyone in the car happy — and the parents from swearing to turn this car around if you touch your brother one more time! (Just us?)

Limit screen time

“When our kids get too much screen time in the car, they get cranky, aren't being stimulated, constantly say they are bored, and overall are just more grumpy,” says Rachel Oldenburger , of  @rv.family.reno .

Oldenburger spent years renovating RVs for clients, and now rents out her own (when she and her family aren’t using it to hit lakes, beaches, and beautiful campgrounds around the country). As surprising as it sounds, the mom of two says her kids behave better on long road trips when their screen time is limited.

Go in with a plan

Oldenburger suggests making a game plan long before you pack up the car. During a recent 18-hour trip, she estimated they would stop for gas about every three hours, and created a schedule with three hour-long blocks that reset after every pit stop. “This way, the kids know what to expect,” she says. “There is less arguing, and it's just something to look forward to during a road trip that seems never-ending!”

For Jessica Roderick, who spent three adventurous years living in an RV with her family and is the creator behind family.of.nomads , she says when her kids were younger they would take a break from driving every hour, “no matter what."

“I would set a timer — that they could see — for an hour, and they would know that when the timer was ending I would start looking for a place to stop, even if it’s just to stretch our legs and walk around for a few minutes," she says. "The timer prevented the “are we there yet” refrain, “and if kids know what’s going on and what to expect, they usually will do a lot better on long road trips."

Bring the best activities

Hour one of Oldenburger’s schedule is for art and activities, including coloring books , crayons , and activity kits that come with dry erase markers. She also recommends a travel tray for each kid, which can help keep their gear and snacks organized. Meanwhile, Lauren Grijalva, the mom of two who runs The Wanderpreneurs along with her husband, Aaron, says that their 11- and 13-year-olds love to read. “They will often read an entire novel in one sitting if we’re traveling, so we make sure they have a good book!” she says. 

Take advantage of the togetherness

Courtesy of Jessica McCorkle/@family.of.nomads

Regular life filled with busywork and school schedules can make it tough to stop long enough to have a real conversation with your kids. Take advantage of car time together, when there are no outside distractions, to connect with your crew.

For Jessica Roderick of @family.of.nomads , road trips are the best way to get her three kids talking. “It’s uninterrupted time together, and not always, but a lot of the time we end up having really great conversations that would be hard to have at home because someone is always busy or gets distracted,” she says.

For Oldenburger, her schedule’s "hour two: block centers on more engaging time together, chatting, listening to music, and playing games, including I Spy and the timeless license plate game. 

Okay, some screen time is fine

Inevitably, you're going to need to get the screens out during an 18-hour trip — but you can be smart about how to dole it out in a way that keeps the kids entertained without becoming full-on zombies.

During hour three of their schedule, Oldenburger’s kids usually opt to play a game on their Switch or watch a show on their tablet. “We purposely put this as the last hour of the rotation so that when we stop for gas, that's the clear end time for tablet time and then we go back to playing with the activity tables when we get back on the road,” she notes. 

For Molly and Jaren Garcia and their three kids, the full-time RV-ing family behind WePlusThreee , life in a motor home makes it feel much easier to stay entertained.

“But for longer travel days my kids love to grab their Nintendo Switches and play games together by sharing their controllers,” says Molly Garcia. At the moment, the kids are particularly partial to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Human: Fall Flat, she notes.

But the screens stay in the vehicle: “When we get to a location we explore outside and electronics become a thing of the past.”

Related Articles

Must-visit road trip food stops in every state

• Road trips are a perfect opportunity to travel to new places and check out the best local spots.
• We looked at popular road-trip restaurants conveniently located by main highways.
• From soul food in Alabama to Texas barbecue, these road trip food stops are worth a try.

Summer's arrival means road-trip season, and these spots are among the best in the country . 

Road trips are often filled with long-haul drives and convenience-store snacks . However, instead of filling up on homemade sandwiches and candy, why not stop off at a local restaurant for a delicious meal to power you through your drive ahead?

Business Insider looked at highly rated restaurants in each state that mentioned road trips or were conveniently located near major highways. We also reviewed customer reviews and popular menu items at each restaurant. All the restaurants on this list had a passing health score and were marked open as of July 15, 2024, though menu item availability is subject to change depending on when you visit. 

Here are popular food stops in every state you need to try on your next road trip.

ALABAMA: Mary's Southern Cooking in Mobile

What to order: Fried chicken, turkey neck special

What customers say: "We were on a road trip and happened to come across this place since it has some good reviews. It's a small place serving food in a buffet style. The chicken was tasty and very tender... The pork chop was very flavorous and tender as well. The only drawback would be that the restaurant is so generous that we couldn't finish the whole box of food. Glad that we stopped by at this place for some southern dishes," wrote Yelp user Kyle C .

Learn more about Mary's Southern Cooking here.

ALASKA: Moose's Tooth in Anchorage

What to order: Spicy Thai chicken pizza, chicken ranch pizza

What customers say:  "Very popular and busy location. Good pizza and they offer a ton of interesting options. We ordered a couple of large pizzas and used them for road trip snacks as we toured the peninsula. When you visit Anchorage, do yourself a favor and stop in to get a pizza or three," wrote Yelp user Jeremy N .

Learn more about Moose's Tooth here.

ARIZONA: RelicRoad Brewing in Winslow

What to order: Philly cheese steak sandwich, Canyon Diablo burger

What customers say:  "Absolutely amazing place if you are up for some good food and beer on your road trip!! The service is amazing as well," wrote Yelp user Mike L .

Learn more about RelicRoad Brewing here.

ARKANSAS: The Root Cafe in Little Rock

What to order: Curry chicken salad, Root benny

What customers say:  "Very cute local restaurant in Little Rock. We were driving through on a long road trip, and the restaurant came out and delivered the food to the car (due to COVID). Everyone was very nice, and the food was delicious," wrote Yelp user Nicole W.

Learn more about The Root Cafe here.

CALIFORNIA: Yaks on the 5 in Dunsmuir

What to order: Sticky buns, bacon overload burger

What customers say:  "The garlic burger was incredible and the wings were top notch. The tater tots were a dream... this is roadside diner food at its best," wrote Yelp user ZumaJay Z.

Learn more about Yaks on the 5 here.

COLORADO: Westbound & Down Brewery in Idaho Springs

What to order: Fried chicken, bison burger

What customers say: "If [you're] ever in Idaho Springs go to Westbound and Down. We ate there three times a week. On our last visit, we met the owner, a super friendly, pumped-up guy. We had already paid but asked if I got my military discount, made sure to give it to me, and then gave me a coin. Whenever I come back to Colorado this is an every time stop. Thanks for your outstanding service and food," wrote Yelp user Kyle L.

Learn more about Westbound & Down Brewery here.

CONNECTICUT: The Traveler Restaurant in Union

What to order: Clam chowder, Thanksgiving wrap

What customers say:  "What a wonderful respite from our I-95 road trip. Well-made and fresh food, very friendly service, and clean facilities. A surprisingly peaceful environment for being right off the highway. My wife and I loved looking through the stacks of books and puzzles as we waited for our to-go order. See you again on our next trip," wrote Yelp user Paul S .

Learn more about The Traveler Restaurant here.

DELAWARE: Jessop's Tavern in New Castle

What to order: Shepherd's pie, Dutch pot roast

What customers say: "I am so thankful that we discovered this place! I am on a road trip with my husband and brother and we were just passing through the area and were looking for a bite to eat. Everything we ate was amazing. Among us, we ordered the lobster crab cake, the meatloaf sandwich, the chicken entrée (it had a weird name), and the blackberry cider. All of the meals were absolutely phenomenal... every last bite was eaten," wrote Yelp user Kaela M .

Learn more about Jessop's Tavern here.

FLORIDA: Tom's Cuban On The Go! in Ocala

What to order: Cuban sandwich, steak sandwich

What customers say:  "A gem of a find! Very convenient stop for a long drive. The food was authentic & staff was friendly. I just marked it on my map for the next road trip," wrote Yelp user Brittney F .

Learn more about Tom's Cuban On The Go! here.

GEORGIA: Zunzi's in Savannah

What to order: Conquistador sandwich, Godfather sandwich

What customers say:  "These sandwiches were unbelievable. We found this joint on our road trip escaping from Hurricane Irma. It was just a pit stop on our way to ATL. We weren't expecting how good this place would be. Next time I'm in Savannah I'll definitely stop by again," wrote Yelp user David L.

Learn more about Zunzi's here.

HAWAII: Chicken In A Barrel BBQ-Kapaa in Kapaa

What to order: Pulled pork, barbecue chicken

What customers say:  "Awesome roadside BBQ! The meat just falls apart. No need for a knife," wrote Yelp user Luis M.

Learn more about Chicken In A Barrel BBQ-Kapaa here.

IDAHO: Scooter's Chillin'-N-Grillin' in Twin Falls

What to order: Bison burger, pulled pork tacos

What customers say:  "This is our favorite stop in Twin Falls. Just traveling through on our road trip, but love the vibe in this place! They're known for their smoked brisket, it didn't disappoint. The brisket tacos were the best! Hubby had the brisket sandwich and garlic fries, and they were delicious. The staff is friendly, welcoming, and easy to talk to," wrote Yelp user Jolene W .

Learn more about Scooter's Chillin'-N-Grillin' here.

ILLINOIS: Blue Springs Cafe in Highland

What to order: Fried chicken, meringue pies

What customers say:  "We stopped here for lunch on a recent road trip. It was great! On the return leg of our trip, we called ahead and picked up carry-out (walleye filets, side salad, green beans, and coconut pie). The food was great and better than getting fast food," wrote Yelp user Terri W.

Learn more about Blue Springs Cafe here.

INDIANA: Payne's Restaurant in Gas City

What to order: Fish and chips, bangers and mash

What customers say:  "We took a road trip with friends specifically to have lunch based on the Visit Indiana article. We all were not disappointed. The fish & chips were great - just like what we ate in York, England! The sticky toffee pudding is to die for - Wow!! We highly recommend a visit to Payne's," wrote Yelp user David C .

Learn more about Payne's Restaurant here.

IOWA: Zombie Burger + Drink Lab in Des Moines

What to order: Undead Elvis burger, fried mac burger

What customers say:  "Their burgers are awesome, and an order of fries is huge! As we are originally from Utah, seeing they had 'fry sauce' was an extra bonus. Their cereal shakes are also fun. We would definitely stop here again on our yearly road trips, just for fun," wrote Yelp user Joni C.

Learn more about Zombie Burger + Drink Lab here.

KANSAS: Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que in Kansas City

What to order: Burnt ends, pulled pork

What customers say:  "Oh my god. Saying this was the best barbecue I've ever had would be an understatement. I am the luckiest eater on the planet and one of my friends brought me here during a road trip because she wanted to eat it. I was hesitant. I have never liked barbecue sauce, in fact, I avoid all sauces and condiments like the PLAGUE. But this place had me slathering my sandwich with barbecue sauce and licking my fingers when I was done. I've been craving it ever since and I'm saddened that I don't live closer," wrote Yelp user Janie S.

Learn more about Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que here.

KENTUCKY: Royals Hot Chicken in Louisville

What to order: Fried chicken sandwich, loaded potato wedges

What customers say:  "We loved their hot chicken sandwich. It was crunchy and spicy, not too greasy, well priced, and if we weren't on a road trip, we would have gotten one of the many beers they had on tap. It's counter service which I like for lunch on a road trip," wrote Yelp user Dna B .

Learn more about Royals Hot Chicken here.

LOUISIANA: Pamela's Bayou In A Bowl in Alexandria

What to order: Fried chicken, smothered pork chop

What customers say:  "Holy moly! How did we get lucky enough to stumble into this place?! The food here is so good, we started planning future road trips through Louisiana. The food was all delicious, flavorful, and completely satisfying! I got the beans and sausage, greens, and mac and cheese. Once we started eating, we realized we must be at somebody's granny's house," wrote Yelp user Mary Beth C.

Learn more about Pamela's Bayou In A Bowl here.

MAINE: Red's Eats in Wiscasset

What to order: Lobster roll, fried clams

What customers say:  "The absolute best lobster roll we have ever tried! We stopped here while doing a road trip through Maine and someone had recommended this place along the way. We didn't think it looked that special or any different from the other 1,000 places that advertise their lobster rolls, but boy were we mistaken," wrote Yelp user Jessica K.

Learn more about Red's Eats here.

MARYLAND: Chaps Pit Beef in Baltimore

What to order: Pit beef sandwich, Big John

What customers say: "This is one of those roadside eateries you pass by, never giving it a second thought... Being situated in front of a strip club doesn't exactly add to the ambiance. But trust me, and the TV shows it's been featured on... Chaps is where it's at! The food is beyond compare," wrote Yelp user Brook H.

Learn more about Chaps Pit Beef here.

MASSACHUSETTS: B.T.'s Smokehouse in Sturbridge

What to order: Pulled pork, beef ribs

What customers say:  "We just stopped here on our road trip and had to write a review right away. The brisket burrito was smoky and delicious. The [Buffalo] fried chicken sandwich was delicately breaded, juicy, and moist. Pick-up was very organized and timely," wrote Yelp user Tess L.

Learn more about B.T.'s Smokehouse here.

MICHIGAN: The Mason Jar Cafe in Benton Harbor

What to order: Stuffed French toast, huevos rancheros 

What customers say:  "Hard to believe such a place exists in small-town Michigan after struggling to find healthy, fresh, and quality food choices on a road trip through rural Michigan. Friendly service, great coffee, diverse menu, fresh, healthy, and vegetarian friendly. Thumbs up, five stars, highly recommended," wrote Yelp user Camille M.

Learn more about The Mason Jar Cafe here.

MINNESOTA: The Taco King in Albert Lea

What to order: Enchilada burrito plate, shredded beef enchiladas

What customers say:  "We stopped while road-tripping to Wisconsin Dells and were greatly surprised! Expecting a fast-food-type Mexican due to the location and was so happy to discover otherwise! The burritos were hot, fresh, and delicious, the al pastor was excellent, and the service was great! Will definitely be stopping again," wrote Yelp user Carrie F.

Learn more about The Taco King here.

MISSISSIPPI: The Pig & Pint in Jackson

What to order: Pork rinds, pulled pork sandwich

What customers say:  "We were so happy to stumble upon this place on our road trip to NOLA thanks to my trusty Yelp! We stopped here on a Thursday for lunch with our toddler. The girl at the register welcomed us for our first time and told us what their most popular dishes were... Our food came fairly quickly and the portions were huge! I didn't expect 'chicken fries' to be a glorious sloppy mess of BBQ chicken, beans, sauce, sour cream, and jalapeños. It was AMAZING! It was the best road trip stop we made all day! Definitely going to stop here on our way to NOLA every year," wrote Yelp user Haley S.

Learn more about The Pig & Pint here.

MISSOURI: Pappy's Smokehouse in St. Louis

What to order: Pulled pork, burnt ends

What customers say:  "The best BBQ I've had. Our road trips following the Florida Gators have taken us all over the south and beyond. Had the 'que in Memphis, Birmingham, Lexington, Nashville, Knoxville, Atlanta, and beyond. Pappys is the best," wrote Yelp user Craig J.

Learn more about Pappy's Smokehouse here.

MONTANA: Hummingbird Cafe in Butte

What to order: Larry Bird sandwich, French toast

What customers say:  "Super delicious great little spot to stop. I was on a road trip and needed to grab a bite and let my baby out of the car seat. We sat on the patio and had a lovely coffee and lunch. Will definitely stop in again next time I drive through Butte," wrote Yelp user Sara H.

Learn more about Hummingbird Cafe here.

NEBRASKA: Open Range Grill in Ogallala

What to order: Chicken sandwich, steak salad

What customers say:  "We stopped at the Open Range Grill on our drive from Denver to Wisconsin, and were so happy that we did! This is a great, family-friendly spot with delicious, fresh food," wrote Yelp user Clare C.

Learn more about Open Range Grill here.

NEVADA: Odeh's Mediterranean Restaurant in Elko

What to order: Lamb chops, chicken shawarma sandwich

What customers say:  "My friends and I were on a road trip to Wisconsin so we randomly stumbled upon this cute little place. It was by far some of the best Mediterranean food I have ever had. Come and try it out, you won't be disappointed," wrote Yelp user Emilee K.

Learn more about Odeh's Mediterranean Restaurant here.

NEW HAMPSHIRE: Four Aces Diner in West Lebanon

What to order: Eggs Benedict, French toast

What customers say:  "Came here for brunch on our road trip! Really good diner food! The place is a little small though. We didn't have to wait long. We sat at the counter. The French onion soup was good. It was on the sweeter side, but that works for me. The scallop omelet was good! Definitely would recommend this place," wrote Yelp user Tina L .

Learn more about Four Aces Diner here.

NEW JERSEY: Tops Diner in East Newark

What to order: Fried chicken, pancakes

What customers say:  "We were on a road trip and stopped by this place and it was a great spot. The place was packed but they got us seated pretty fast. There's a lot to cover on the menu from burgers and steaks to seafood [...] give this place a try you won't be disappointed," wrote Yelp user Trisha M .

Learn more about Tops Diner here.

NEW MEXICO: Chico's Tortas y Piñas Lokas in Santa Rosa

What to order: Fish tacos, chicken enchiladas

What customers say:  "We found this while on a road trip and were blown away by the quality of the food. Their take on a Cubano is worth the stop. Excellent shrimp taco and quesadillas too! The atmosphere is also great with excellent decor and many items for sale," wrote Yelp user Amanda T .

Learn more about Chico's Tortas y Piñas Lokas here.

NEW YORK: The Cheese Traveler in Albany

What to order: Grilled cheese sandwich, cured meats

What customers say:  "The best grilled cheese (the classic) with fabulous tomato soup. Gourmet everything and a great trip of women running the place. Pretty close to the Thruway. Definitely worth the trip," wrote Yelp user Jim D.

Learn more about The Cheese Traveler here.

NORTH CAROLINA: The Prime Smokehouse in Rocky Mount

What to order: Pulled pork, crab cakes

What customers say:  "Stopped toward the end of a long road trip. Absolutely fabulous smokehouse. Had the brisket, ribs, and chicken, which came with a side of cornbread. Everything we had was fabulous and full of flavor," wrote Yelp user Kevin S.

Learn more about The Prime Smokehouse here.

NORTH DAKOTA: Fireflour Pizza + Coffee Bar in Bismarck

What to order: Spicy pizza, fennel sausage pizza

What customers say:  "Stopped for a road trip lunch on our way through North Dakota. The staff was awesome, restaurant/bathroom was clean. The pizzaiola was skilled at her craft. The pizzas were thin, perfectly browned, with a beautiful crust. Topping to pizza ratio was perfection," wrote Yelp user Kiki C.

Learn more about Fireflour Pizza + Coffee Bar here.

OHIO: Lucky's Cafe in Cleveland

What to order: Waffles, Shipwreck hash

What customers say:  "I visited Lucky's while on a road trip to see the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with my dad and my brother. I scoped out the place because I saw it on 'Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives' and it looked like my cup of tea... I love how local the food is, and the quality shows! I had the Canoewreck. Curried tofu, hashbrowns, lots of veggies, toast, and fruit. It was so delicious! The dudes were happy with what they ordered as well. I'm sad I don't live near Cleveland because I'd eat here every day," wrote Yelp user Amanda A.

Learn more about Lucky's Cafe here.

OKLAHOMA: The Loaded Bowl in Oklahoma City

What to order:  Cashew mac, orange chicken

What customers say: "Stopped here on a road trip to Phoenix, and the food was so good, we made a point of stopping again on the way back through. Our favorite was the ultimate in comfort food, the Mashed Potato Bowl. We also enjoyed the Mac + Greens bowl, and the CBD soda was refreshing. On our second visit, I went to pick up our order and noticed a fully stocked display case of sweet goodies, so ended up spending nearly as much again on those as for the original order. Worth it," wrote Yelp user Madeleine W .

Learn more about The Loaded Bowl here.

OREGON: Jack Sprats in Cottage Grove

What to order:  Sprat rolls, Perfect Flavor burger

What customers say: "My husband and I enjoy visiting Cottage Grove on our yearly road trip to Oregon. We stopped at Jack Sprats two years ago and had a great experience, so decided to stop in again. My husband ordered the fish and chips and I ordered the Cuban sandwich. It did take a while for our food to come out this time, but we figured they had to wait for the oil to heat up as we came early for lunch, just as they were converting the kitchen over from breakfast. The potato salad was a good choice. My iced tea was really delicious. The portions were, once again, extremely generous. We ended up splitting the fish and chips and took the Cuban home for another meal. The menu is varied, and there are some gluten-free options, including some yummy homemade cookies. This place is definitely worth a stop," wrote Yelp user Shelly S .

Learn more about Jack Sprats here.

PENNSYLVANIA: Picasso's Erie in Erie

What to order:  Mona Lisa sanwich, Van Gogh sandwich

What customers say: "My entire family loved it here. I ordered the Mona Lisa (turkey, artichokes, spinach, pesto, amazingness). I also ordered mac n cheese as my side. Holy good. Definitely not your average mac and cheese. They have a kid's menu. We ordered the grilled cheese and pickle for my daughter. Best pickle ever lives up to its name," wrote Yelp user Julia E.

Learn more about Picasso's Erie here.

RHODE ISLAND: Brick Alley Pub & Restaurant in Newport

What to order:  Lobster roll, clam chowder

What customers say: "Came into town and we were in a bind to get a good meal on a very long road trip. We were not at all disappointed with the meal. The staff was excellent and the food was also great! And so clean! Absolutely a great meal," wrote Yelp user Caroline D .

Learn more about Brick Alley Pub & Restaurant here.

SOUTH CAROLINA: Katie's Sandwich Shop in Gaston

What to order:  Chicken salad sandwich, Reuben sandwich

What customers say: "If you're driving up or down I-26 and need a great lunch, look no further. Katie's is the alternative to all those fast-food interstate exit options. Just a quick drive (less than 5 minutes) from the exit you'll find this awesome local place serving up some great sandwiches by some friendly Southern ladies. Bookmark it for your next road trip, and you won't regret it,"  wrote Yelp user Andrew J.

Learn more about Katie's Sandwich Shop here.

SOUTH DAKOTA: Circle E Drive-In in Murdo

What to order: Bacon cheeseburger, bacon chicken sandwich

What customers say: "One of the best burgers ever! So fresh and delicious. We were traveling from Badlands National Park to Sioux Falls and needed to stop for lunch. The restaurant is close to the highway and was an easy, quick stop. The staff were welcoming and friendly. We sat outside on the patio. I had the cheeseburger and my husband had the Big Al burger. Both were delicious. We shared a small fry and had plenty left over. Very reasonably priced with burgers around $9 and fries $3.," wrote Yelp user Mary A .

Learn more about Circle E Drive-In here.

TENNESSEE: Biscuit Love: Gulch in Nashville

What to order:  East Nasty, Princess Biscuit

What customers say: "Best food in Nashville! We ordered ahead via the Yelp app as we were driving into Nashville on our road trip. We got to go right in and bypass the huge line outside to pick up our order! The East Nasty and Princess Biscuit sandwiches were to die for!! I recommend 100%!! Along with the Bonuts," wrote Yelp user Molly E .

Learn more about Biscuit Love: Gulch here.

TEXAS: Tyler's Barbeque in Amarillo

What to order:  Chopped brisket sandwich, pulled pork sandwich

What customers say: "We stopped here on the way to Santa Fe and it was delicious. The jalapeño corn was amazing--highly recommend," wrote Yelp user Kayli M.

Learn more about Tyler's Barbeque here.

UTAH: Centro Woodfired Pizzeria in Cedar City

What to order:  Arugula salad, sausage fennel pizza

What customers say: "We were driving through town on a road trip and sick of diners and fast food. We found this place on Yelp, and I thought, If it's half as good as the reviews, I will be shocked. Started with the meatballs and garlic bread, followed with the Brooklyn Pepperoni pizza, and finished with the Nutella baked pizza with whip cream! The food quality was excellent in line with what you would expect at a high-quality metropolitan Italian restaurant,"  wrote Yelp user Judi M.

Learn more about Centro Woodfired Pizzeria here.

VERMONT: Prohibition Pig in Waterbury

What to order:  House burger, brisket sandwich

What customers say: "Was looking for some good BBQ while on a road trip through VT. Pro Pig did not disappoint. The Smoked Wings were some of the best I have ever had, even the pickled carrots served with them were great. The Chopped Whole Hog Sandwich was excellent. Others in my party were very pleased with the Brisket Sandwich and Sweet Tea Half Chicken. Next trip to Stowe, we will definitely be back," wrote Yelp user John D .

Learn more about Prohibition Pig here.

VIRGINIA: Angelle's Diner in Troutville

What to order:  Cowboy burger, eggs Benedict 

What customers say: "This diner was delightful. Such a pleasant surprise for me, my husband, and our kids, ages 8 and 10, while traveling from DC. I am not usually a diner fan but Angelle's is not your average diner. It was nice and clean and lives up to its many good reviews," wrote Yelp user Amy B.

Learn more about Angelle's Diner here.

WASHINGTON: Frank's Diner in Spokane

What to order:  Chicken fried steak, eggs Benedict

What customers say: "My friend and I are on a road trip from MN to OR and picked Frank's on the name alone. We had no idea that there was so much history behind the restaurant! The staff, so thoughtful, the atmosphere kept us wanting to know more and the food was more than amazing," wrote Yelp user Kim E .

Learn more about Frank's Diner here.

WEST VIRGINIA: Hillbilly Hot Dogs in Lesage

What to order:  West Virginia dog, taco dog

What customers say: "Best hotdogs I have ever had! Great road trip stop! The prices are great," wrote Yelp user Scott H.

Learn more about Hillbilly Hot Dogs here.

WISCONSIN: Baumgartner's Cheese Store & Tavern in Monroe

What to order:  Hot pastrami sandwich, cheese sandwich

What customers say: "This restaurant was the highlight of our Wisconsin road trip. I loved the place. It has such nostalgia to it. The food was freshly prepared. You could tell because it melted in our mouths! The desserts were amazing. Cheese as a topping was unique. I loved it," wrote Yelp user Krishna C .

Learn more about Baumgartner's Cheese Store & Tavern here.

WYOMING: Anong's Thai Cuisine in Rawlins

What to order:  Pad Thai, yellow curry

What customers say: "Some friends and I were road-tripping through Wyoming to Colorado and needed a place to stop for dinner. This place was one of the top-rated places, and we all like Thai food, so we thought, 'What the heck.' We all wish we had this place back in Provo cause we would definitely stop again. The service was quick and helpful but also very personable. It was a great experience, and we didn't have to wait long for our food either! 10 out of 10 would recommend," wrote Yelp user Logan B.

Learn more about Anong's Thai Cuisine here.

• Main content

Where It Starts & Ends: 12 Things You Can Still See On Old Route 66

• Lou Mitchell's in Chicago is a classic American diner and the perfect place for travelers wondering where to start a Route 66 road trip.
• The Gateway Arch in St. Louis is easily one of the most iconic landmarks on Route 66 to see.
• Santa Monica Pier is the perfect final stop on Route 66 to celebrate completing a cross-country journey.

Lore and myth have been built around Old Route 66 and the people who traveled it. From quirky diners and kitschy motels to breathtaking natural wonders and landmarks, the stops along Old Route 66 encapsulate that classic Americana culture and invoke a strong sense of nostalgia.

Forever immortalized in movies, songs, and books, Route 66 continues to fascinate travelers from around the globe. It remains one of the most famous road trips in the United States , even though this road was technically decommissioned in the 1980s to make space for America's current interstate system. Luckily, many of the original stops on Route 66 from its heyday can still be visited. For adventures with their hearts set on precisely that, here are some of the things to still see on Route 66.

UPDATE: 2023/12/27 11:45 EST BY NOAH STAATS

Route 66 Remains A Southwest Staple

This article has been refreshed with even more stops along Old Route 66, plus additional information on existing hotels, restaurants, and attractions. Whether road-trippers come in the summer, fall, winter, or spring, there's always something to see here; have fun!

Related: Road Trip Worthy: Explore These Scenic Drives Across The Southwest U.S.

Lou Mitchell's (Chicago, Illinois)

Get comfy at this classic american diner on route 66, serving hearty grub since 1923.

Though there are plenty of historic stops and fun attractions on Route 66 in Illinois , grabbing a meal at Lou Mitchell's is the hearty way to commemorate the journey. Route 66 officially starts in Chicago, and Lou Mitchell's diner has been there from the start, serving classic American diner fare to hungry drivers.

Colloquially known as "the first stop on the Mother Road," starting a journey on Route 66 with a big breakfast at Lou Mitchell's is a rite of passage. Since 1923, Lou Mitchell's has been in business, and the establishment quickly became an iconic Chicago diner for weary travelers looking for a hearty breakfast to start their Route 66 adventure.

• Address: 565 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60661
• Hours: Open daily from 6 AM to 2 PM (opens 7 AM on weekends)

Related: 10 Road Trips From Chicago That Will Have You Ready To Hit The Gas

The Gateway Arch (St. Louis, Missouri)

As one of the united states' most iconic landmarks, this arch stands over a midwest gem.

The iconic Gateway Arch in Missouri proudly stands as a monument to America's westward expansion. A feat of engineering, this colossal arch stands at 630 feet, welcoming visitors who are eager to explore the city of St. Louis .

Whether road-trippers are just passing by or riding the tram that takes passengers smoothly up the arch , the Gateway Arch is a classic American landmark that has long greeted those traveling through Route 66.

• Address: Gateway Arch, St. Louis, MO 63102
• Hours: Open daily from 5 AM to 11 PM

Meramec Caverns (Sullivan, Missouri)

See the underground caves under route 66 and learn about geological and native american history.

When passing through Missouri, road-trippers on Route 66 must stop at Meramec Caverns . This impressive series of underground caves is home to out-of-this-world rock formations and underground lakes.

Guided tours provide a fascinating glimpse into the area's geological formation and Native American history.

• Address: 1135 Hwy W, Sullivan, MO 63080
• Hours: Open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM
• Tickets: $27

The Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo, Texas)

Super quirky, this is one of the most instagrammable stops on route 66.

Cadillac Ranch is a unique public art installation in Amarillo, Texas, that features 10 Cadillac cars half-submerged in the ground and covered in graffiti. Along with serving as an incredible photo opportunity, this spot on Old Route 66 is a notable example of American pop art and, to this day, continues to be one of the best stops on a Route 66 road trip .

Designed in the 1970s by a group of artists known as the Ant Farm, visitors are encouraged to climb on top of the cars and even add their own graffiti before continuing their journey along Route 66.

• Address: 13651 I-40 Frontage Rd, Amarillo, TX 79124
• Hours: Open 24 hours

Midpoint Café (Adrian, Texas)

Established in 1928, this cafe is route 66's midpoint at 1,139 miles from chicago and los angeles.

The Midpoint Café proudly declares itself as the midpoint of the original Route 66. At precisely 1,139 miles from both Chicago and Los Angeles, this restaurant was open 24 hours a day during the height of travel on Route 66.

Established in 1928, this diner served hungry travelers on Route 66. Its slogan was "When you're here, you're halfway there." Along with serving delicious pies and traditional American comfort food (and being the Old Route 66 halfway point), the Midpoint Café has an antique shop and souvenir store for Route 66 enthusiasts.

• Address: 305 Historic Rte 66, Adrian, TX 79001
• Hours: Open daily from 8 AM to 4 PM

Historic El Rancho Hotel (Gallup, New Mexico)

This famous route 66 hotel welcomed many of hollywood's golden age legends.

Built in 1936, the El Rancho Hotel was the place Hollywood stars stayed while filming on location in Gallup, New Mexico. From John Wayne and Humphrey Bogart to Katherine Hepburn and Joan Crawford, the El Rancho Hotel played host to countless film legends, forever linking it with the history of the Golden Age of cinema.

One of the most famous hotels on Route 66, the accommodation eventually became a popular stop on Old Route 66 for tourists. Its Western-style architecture and old Hollywood charm make it a sought-after lodging choice for travelers seeking a touch of Hollywood glamor mixed with a large dose of Old Western nostalgia.

• Address: 1000 E Hwy 66, Gallup, NM 87301

Painted Desert (Arizona)

Stop off and soak up the otherworldly desert scenery.

Few places on Earth can beat the views found in the Painted Desert , which is probably why this stop just slightly off Route 66 was such a popular spot for road-trippers passing through Arizona.

This mesmerizing landscape, adorned with colorful layered rock formations, showcases nature's breathtaking beauty. The Painted Desert is a photographer's dream and worth the stop on Route 66.

• Address: Painted Desert, AZ, 86031
• Area: 93,500 acres
• Length: 160 miles
• Borders on: Little Colorado and Puerco Rivers

Petrified Forest National Park (Holbrook, Arizona)

Ancient trees, petroglyphs, a ruined village, and epic hikes year-round.

Known as one of Route 66's most natural stops, Petrified Forest National Park is well worth the trip. Here lies the old forest boasting ancient trees, critters, art, and trails to hike throughout the year.

Because Arizona remains fairly stable climate-wise, Petrified Forest National Park is a great year-round destination. It boasts the petroglyphs of Newspaper Rock and the ruined village of Puerco Pueblo. There is the Painted Desert Inn and the Rainbow Forest Museum here as well.

• Established: December 9, 1962
• Hours: Open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM
• Entry Fee: $15-$25

Wigwam Village Motel (Holbrook, Arizona)

There's an authentic native american-style wigwam motel on route 66.

The Wigwam Village Motel in Holbrook allows guests to spend the night in cozy teepee-shaped cabins.

Interestingly, it's one of just three Wigwam Villages left in the country, and it is a nostalgic throwback to the whimsical motor courts and unique accommodations that were once synonymous with the Route 66 experience.

• Address: 811 W Hopi Dr, Holbrook, AZ 86025

Debate over the cultural appropriation surrounding these Wigwam Villages exists. However, some of the remaining motels have tried in recent years to educate guests about these villages' history and place in American history as a roadside attraction.

Twin Arrows Trading Post (Flagstaff, Arizona)

A perfect spot to pull off route 66 along flagstaff and winslow.

For those between Flagstaff and Winslow, Arizona, visiting the Twin Arrows Trading Post is worth the trip. This is the perfect place to pull off Route 66 and snap a shot, as there are two massive arrows positioned in the ground (it's one of the many quirky roadside attractions on Route 66!).

What was once a fairly busy area in the Arizona desert, Twin Arrows Trading Post now currently sits pretty quiet, as much of this route does.

• Address: Flagstaff, AZ 86004

There are many other scenic small towns in Arizona worth seeing for those looking to extend their trip or check out a few detours while driving Route 66.

Oatman Ghost Town (Oatman, Arizona)

An old mining town of the wild west where wild burros roam the streets.

Once a bustling mining town, Oatman is now one of the many ghost towns on Route 66 to visit; it's completely frozen in time, providing travelers with a glimpse into the past. The town of Oatman is the real deal; it comes complete with saloons, wooden sidewalks, and Western-themed shops.

Oatman isn't one of the amazing historic ghost towns of the American West with nothing going on, though; visitors can also stop to pet the beloved local burros that roam the streets or enjoy one of the daily gunfight reenactments that pay homage to the long-gone days of the Old Wild West.

• Address: Oatman, AZ, 86433

Related: Quirky & Historic: 10 Route 66 Attractions That Are Worth Pulling Over For

Santa Monica Pier (Santa Monica, California)

Amusement park rides, hotels, restaurants, and more await at the end of route 66.

There's no better way to end a journey across Old Route 66 than by gazing into the waters of the Pacific Ocean. Indeed, visiting the Santa Monica Pier is the perfect end for road-trippers to celebrate completing their cross-country journey.

The Santa Monica Pier isn't just the penultimate of California's Route 66 portion; it's an important historic landmark that features a magnificent view of the Pacific Ocean, a vibrant amusement park, and numerous restaurants and hotels where travelers can unwind. The ultimate family-friendly stop on Route 66, there are tons of exciting things to do on the Santa Monica Pier for all ages.

• Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Best Arizona road trips: 2 outdoor havens face off in championship round

Phoenix road trippers yearn to explore inspiring settings, do fun things and not feel like they're on fire when they're outside in summer.

They're among the millions of travelers planning road trips. AAA forecasted record numbers of people who planned to travel by car in 2024, including for the Memorial Day and Fourth of July weekends.

So the timing is right to launch  azcentral.com's  Best Arizona Road Trip Bracket.

Round 1 of voting in the bracket  that matched up eight popular road trips from Phoenix ended on Sunday, July 7. Round 2 of voting ended Sunday, July 14. More than 700 people voted in Round 2 to decide the two finalists. One destination won its race in a landslide; the other faced a closer race with just 49 votes deciding the winner.

Just two road trip spots remain in contention for the championship round.

Voting for Round 3 begins at 5 a.m. Tuesday, July 16, and ends at midnight on Sunday, July 21. The winner will be announced Tuesday, July 23.

Here are the contenders for best Arizona road trips and how to vote.

A roughly 2½-hour drive from Phoenix puts you in the heart of Arizona's high country: the historic railroad city of Flagstaff. The elevation of just under 7,000 feet above sea level, compared with around 1,100 feet in Phoenix, means mild summers and snowy winters.

Flagstaff has a lot to see and do, from exploring Sunset Crater, Wupatki and Walnut Canyon national monuments to wandering through the city's historic downtown on Route 66. Stay for the night sky, as the stargazing is considered among the best in the state (and a big reason why CNN recently named Flagstaff  one of the top 10 U.S. towns to visit in 2024 ).

Pinetop-Lakeside/Greer

The White Mountains in eastern Arizona would appeal to metro Phoenix residents for the milder summers alone. But the region is also a hub for just about every outdoor activity.

Pinetop-Lakeside, consisting of the neighboring towns of Pinetop and Lakeside, gives visitors their choice of 65 lakes and streams for water sports like kayaking and fishing. Hunting grounds and motorized vehicle trails are also prominent. There's also  White Mountain Family Fun Park , for those whose favorite outdoor activities are mini golf and go-karting.

Greer, about 40 miles east, has  scenic hiking opportunities ,  cozy cabins  and the historic Molly Butler Lodge. The surrounding Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests have several campgrounds and endless recreation options.

And sandwiched right in the middle of all this outdoor goodness is the Fort Apache Reservation, home to the White Mountain Apache Tribe, who operate  Sunrise Park Resort , offering  skiing in winter  and mountain biking and scenic chairlift rides in summer. A  mountain coaster thrill ride  will open in summer 2024.

Michael Salerno is an award-winning journalist who’s covered travel and tourism since 2014. His work as The Arizona Republic’s consumer travel reporter aims to help readers navigate the stresses of traveling and get the best value for their money on their vacations. He can be reached at  [email protected] . Follow him on X, formerly Twitter:  @salerno_phx .

Support local journalism.   Subscribe to  azcentral.com  today.

Money blog: Pret ditches 'too good to be true' deal'; one of UK's top plastic surgery firms collapses

Welcome to the Money blog, your place for personal finance and consumer news and tips. Leave a comment with your thoughts below.

Friday 19 July 2024 07:16, UK

• Pret ditches 'too good to be true' deal
• Global payments issue resolved
• One of UK's largest plastic surgery providers collapses
• Earnings growth falls - and it could have wider consequences
• Sainsbury's increases meal deal price

Essential reads

• We tried UK's cheapest three-course dinner - here's what you get for £4/£5
• Best savings accounts right now
• Women in Business: 'I set up business with £200 and went on Dragons' Den - now it's worth £1.5m'
• Basically... What happens when you go bankrupt?
• Money Problem : 'A £16 phone bill debt has put a default on my credit record and now I can't get a mortgage - what can I do?'

Ask a question or make a comment

Every Friday we take an overview of the mortgage market, speaking to those in the industry before getting a round-up of the best rates courtesy of the independent experts at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk . 

We could have started this week's look at mortgages with the changing forecasts for interest rate cuts - and we will get to that, but another interesting development in the market came from Gen H.

The lender announced it would start allowing friends to act as income boosters for mortgages up to 80% loan-to-value, while extending immediate family to include nieces and nephews up to 95% LTV.

It's aimed at helping people struggling to get on the housing ladder.

Stephen Perkins, MD at Yellow Brick Mortgages, welcomed the innovation - but there was a note of caution.

"The friends or family members in question need to go in eyes wide open," he told Newspage. "Having your income used to assist a friend's mortgage could have a potential impact on your own credit file and personal borrowing potential in the future."

At the top we alluded to changing interest rate forecasts - this followed higher-than-expected services inflation for June, as revealed by the ONS on Wednesday.

Prior to the data dump, the chances of a base rate cut at the Bank of England's next six-weekly meeting on 1 August was 50/50, according to markets.

This fell back to 64/36 - in favour of a hold - but as of Thursday afternoon, following new data on wage growth falling back, the market forecast was 56/44 in favour of a hold at 5.25%.

For now, the average rates being offered on the high street (bear in mind many people will be able to get better deals than this) are...

We asked Moneyfacts to hone in on house purchase rates this week (as opposed to home movers or first-time buyers).

Spokesperson  Caitlyn Eastell said: " House purchase customers will find the lowest two-year fixed rate for those at 60% loan-to-value this week comes from Barclays Mortgage, priced at 4.52%. 

"Those looking to fix for longer will find the lowest five-year fixed house purchase deal at 60% loan-to-value also comes from Barclays Mortgage. The deal is priced at 4.09%."

Moneyfacts also looks at what it calls "best buys" - which considers not just the rate, but other costs and incentives. These are their top picks this week...

Wagamama is the latest high street restaurant chain to launch a loyalty scheme offering people free dishes and exclusive content.

Customers will be able to collect stamps through the Soul Club app every time they visit and spend at least £12.

Once users have collected three stamps they can claim a free side, while six will unlock a main meal. People who "level up" on the app will also earn access to more rewards such as exclusive experiences and the chance to win a monthly merchandise drop.

The stamps, inspired by the Japanese tradition of hanko stamps, are collected in a digital book.

Kay Bartlett, chief marketing officer at Wagamama, told Restaurant Online that the loyalty programme was an opportunity to thank customers "through Wagamama's ultimate love language, food".

Other high street brands offering loyalty schemes

Wagamama is not the first brand to offer its customers complimentary dishes and exclusive deals, with several big-name high street chains already launching similar loyalty programmes.

Pizza Express 's loyalty app gives customers a free treat on every visit, ranging from a free side, doughballs or a Romana pizza upgrade, depending on the level reached (bronze, silver or gold).

For fans of Zizzi , their "Zillionare's Club" programme allows customers to earn points which they can eventually swap for perks such as free food and drinks, as long as they spend at least £10.

Meanwhile, coffee lovers signed up to Pret a Mange r's Club Pret scheme get up to five hot or iced drinks a day as well as 20% off the rest of the menu for £30 a month - but this will be changing later this year. 

From 3 September, Club Pret subscribers will instead pay £5 a month for 50% off five barista-made drinks a day - with this cost increasing to £10 a month from March 2025. 

Asian-influenced chain Itsu  also recently launched its "Butterfly" scheme, which similarly to Wagamama, sees customers collect butterfly stamps with each visit through its app. Users are offered a free snack, zen'water and meal with their third, fifth and seventh butterflies respectively.

Costa , Caffe Nero , Nando's and Subway also offer their own food and drink reward schemes.

An increasing number of police officers in one of the country's biggest forces are said to be looking for second jobs due to rising living costs.

Sue Murphy, head of vetting and security at Thames Valley Police, said in a report that more staff and officers were looking for a second income "due to the high cost of living and high cost of housing" in the region.

According to the Bucks Free Press , the report said officers used to engage in "'hobby' type roles" - but some were now needing to generate further income to support their families.

Police officers are allowed to take on additional jobs outside their regular work if their force approves it.

According to Ms Murphy's report, Thames Valley Police is "carefully monitoring" the situation in the force, where there has been "continuous turnover of staff" and the risk of an "exhausted workforce" due to staff opting to work longer hours.

Sky News has contacted Thames Valley Police for comment.

NatWest and TSB have become the latest major lenders to announce a range of mortgage rate cuts. 

NatWest will reduce five-year purchase deals by up to 0.23% from tomorrow.

Two-year purchase deals will also decrease by up to 0.14%. 

Remortgage offers will fall by up to 0.18% and first-time buyer deals will be cut by up to 0.14%. 

TSB has said it will reduce rates on two-year fixed first-time buyer and home mover deals by up to 0.1%, and two-year fixed remortgage offers by up to 0.15%. 

The cuts come despite markets now pricing in a less than 50% chance of a Bank of England base rate cut in August - following yesterday's higher-than-expected inflation data.

Hannah Bashford, director at Model Financial Solutions, said the rate changes were "symbolic given the inflation data". 

"The war of rates is still raging. Hopefully the competition between banks and a tussle to be at the top and win business for the second half of the year will mean rates continue to fall throughout the summer," she told Newspage. 

Earlier this week, Virgin Money, Accord Mortgages, The Mortgage Works and Co-op Bank all dropped their rates as they started looking ahead to the Bank of England's interest rate decision in August. 

Carpetright's biggest rival has moved closer to buying its troubled competitor. 

Tapi, which was set up by the family who founded Carpetright, has placed a formal bid to purchase the brand name and a number of stores. 

If approved, the deal could save hundreds of stores and jobs. 

Carpetright put itself up for sale last week, appointing PwC as an administrator. 

It currently trades from more than 270 stores across the UK.

Sky News has contacted Tapi and Carpetright for comment. 

A global payments issue that hit the Bank of England this afternoon has been resolved - you can read more about this in our 15.03 post. 

The Bank has just issued a statement saying a third-party supplier has fixed the problem and payments are "settling as normal". 

"We expect that all payments received by the Bank today will be settled by the end of the day," it says. 

"If you are concerned about a CHAPS payment you plan to make or receive today, please contact your bank, or other payment service provider." 

Sky News understands the problem was not caused by a cyber incident. 

The CHAPS system is used for high-value payments, meaning some house purchases have been delayed today. 

One of the UK's largest plastic surgery providers has collapsed. 

The Skin Group, which has more than 70 branches across the UK, was also the owner of Skin Clinics, the Harley Medical Group, Skin Brands the Skin Experts and ABC Medical. 

In a message to customers, it said all the brands had "ceased trading". 

Its website displayed a note saying the company had "undertaken an extensive process to secure investment to enable it to continue trading but sadly we've been unsuccessful".

"We recognise this outcome will have a significant impact on our team members and our customers and we are deeply sorry for the stress and inconvenience this has caused." 

Clients still awaiting test results will be contacted as soon as possible, it added.

Communications firm Kendrick, which was Skin's PR agency, wrote in a post on Instagram that it was "blindsided" by the news.

"We have no information as yet regarding how things are being managed by Skin or the administrators, or how cancelled patient appointments / payments etc will be redressed," it said.

"We are sorry to have no news to share – this situation has blindsided us all. Should anything change in this regard, we will share relevant updates on our channels." 

A "global payments issue" has hit the Bank of England's CHAPS service. 

The issue is causing delays to high-value and time-sensitive payments, including some house purchases, the Bank says. 

"We are mindful of the impact this is likely to have and are working closely with a third-party supplier, industry and other authorities to resolve the issue as promptly as possible," it says. 

Retail payment systems and cash machines have not been affected. 

It is not clear how many payments have been impacted by the issue, which the Bank has been aware of since midday. 

Sky News understands a cyber incident has been ruled out.

Director of Thomas Legal, Chris Barry says the issue will affect property exchanges and completions up and down the country today. 

"Whilst many completions are preset and happen earlier in the day, some will still happen between the issue being announced and the cut off of 4pm," he told Newspage. 

"For many, this has just made an already stressful day even more stressful. Most contracts have a 12pm or 1pm hard time embedded, so if the payment is being made now, they are technically in breach of contract." 

CHAPS is one of the largest high-value payment systems in the world. 

High street banks and a number of international banks use the system to make large payments, with the system processing around £350bn a day. 

It can also be used by people spending lots of money - up to millions of pounds - on items such as cars, boats and properties. 

Our business presenter Ian King says it's not uncommon for CHAPS to experience problems, but the fact it's a global issue "does raise one or two eyebrows". 

"The problems usually crop up when one bank or another is experiencing a particularly heavy workload, and that's when delays can happen," he says. 

"Potentially, it could cause a lot of aggravation for people who are trying to complete on a housing transaction today.

"It is a big part of the financial plumbing for the financial services industry." 

Has your house purchase been delayed because of the issue? If so, we would like to hear from you. 

To get in touch,  send us a message on WhatsApp.

By doing so, you agree we can broadcast, publish and edit the material without any payment being due to you.

By James Sillars , business reporter

There has been no second interest rate cut by the European Central Bank (ECB), as widely expected.

The body responsible for monetary policy in the euro area maintained its current guidance on the path ahead following its latest meeting.

As such, there were no hints about what the governing council might do at its next meeting in September.

The rates announcement said that domestic price pressures remained elevated, and inflation would remain above the ECB's 2% target well into next year.

Pret A Manger is scrapping its popular five coffees a day subscription deal - but is also cutting prices of a number of products. 

Under the current club offer, which has been running since 2020, customers pay £30 a month for the free drinks and a 20% discount on the rest of its menu. 

But, from 3 September, Club Pret members will pay £10 a month to receive 50% off on up to five barista-made drinks a day. 

The "simpler" scheme will initially launch at £5 a month for existing and new subscribers, but will increase on 31 March 2025. 

The change also means an end to the 20% discount, with the chain saying it "never really got comfortable" with dual pricing.

Pret's managing director Clare Clough said: "It's almost four years since we introduced our coffee subscription at the height of the pandemic, and I'm proud of the role Club Pret has played for us and our customers since.

"It was an innovative way to reconnect with our loyal customers and introduce Pret to tens of thousands of new ones, bringing customers back into our shops with an offer that almost seemed 'too good to be true'.

"Four years and over a quarter of a billion coffees later, we have decided that it’s time to rethink how it works."

In March, the chain implemented a crackdown to prevent Club Pret subscribers from sharing free drinks.

Some customers were exploiting loopholes by sharing subscription benefits. 

Since then, club members have been required to use the app to redeem their complimentary drinks. 

Pret also announced that its signature 100% organic arabica filter coffee would drop from £1.80 to 99p, and its all butter croissant will also drop from £2.30 to £1.99.

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Riley Cross began learning braille from home but his tutor helped take his lessons on the road

Riley Cross's family travelled around Australia in a caravan for three months, and his braille teacher joined them on the adventure.

The 12-year-old, who is legally blind, began remote braille lessons from his home in northern New South Wales last year.

When his family decided to travel around the country's southern coastline, they didn't want Riley's lessons to stop, so they adapted the classroom along their trip.

Riley would take video calls with his braille tutor outdoors, while his computer and brailler — a device that turns online files into braille — rested on a boogie board.

On days filled with hours of driving, the family pulled off to the side of the road or stopped in a town along the way for the lessons.

"We were doing it five days a week, half-an-hour lessons on the road," mum Tammy Cross said.

When internet service was limited, Riley and his mum would visit the information centre and "hook up to power and do the lesson" there.

"It was crucial to keep the consistency with Riley's progression with braille," Ms Cross said.

Riley said he wanted to learn braille to make it "easier" for him to get through school.

"I was still trying to learn on the road," he said.

Braille maps and tactile animals

His braille teacher — Tricia d'Apice from NextSense in Sydney — feels like she'd been around Australia, too.

In the lead-up to the three-month holiday, Ms Cross provided her with an itinerary of the family's trip.

The tutor created a map of the family's journey, fact sheets about each destination, and a quiz about the trip — all in braille.

"I got to research all the stuff, and then be on the holiday with them," Ms d'Apice said.

She also created tactile pictures of animals native to the areas the family were visiting.

"I could put that onto a thermal paper and, when it was heated, the lines were raised on it so he could get the actual shape of the animal he might encounter in that area," she said.

Riley was sent all the resources ahead of the road trip and, once the family took off, Ms d'Apice began video-calling to guide him through the material.

"It didn't really matter where Riley was, as long as he could get internet access," she said.

She said the braille tutor noted all the different backgrounds and sounds during the lessons.

"[Ms d'Apice] would say, 'Where are you parked today? I can see out the window'," Ms Cross said.

"Then she could hear our background, so she's like, 'Oh, that's a different bird noise. You're in a different place today.'

"It was awesome to share the journey with her."

Ms d'Apice said remote braille lessons weren't a new concept, beginning long before learning and working online became popular during COVID-19 lockdowns.

"I personally have been doing remote braille lessons for about 17 years," she said.

"They started researching the process in 2001, so it's been a while."

Ms d'Apice said learning braille is crucial for people who are blind and low vision.

"Braille is just as important to blind people today as print is still important to sighted people," she said.

'We'll keep that forever'

The regular lessons on the road helped improve Riley's fluency and progression in learning braille.

"Because of the consistency of the lessons, there was definitely a big improvement towards the end," Ms Cross said.

Riley said, "It was cool getting to know stuff before we went there".

Ms Cross said she was so grateful to Ms d'Apice for making it possible.

"The book about our trip, we'll keep that forever because that was pretty amazing," she said.

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