There’s nothing quite like the thrill of a road trip. The open road, the changing landscapes, the promise of new experiences at every turn. And when you’re planning a road trip across the vast and diverse landscapes of the USA, it becomes an adventure of epic proportions. But how do you plan such a trip? This is where I comes in. I will explore how to plan a USA road trip with Kayak, making your journey an unforgettable experience.
Get Started
One of the most exciting parts of planning a USA road trip is deciding where you want to go and mapping out your route. The country is so vast and diverse, the options can seem limitless. Start by making a list of states and cities you most want to visit. Consider must-see landmarks like the Grand Canyon or NYC, or focus on a region like New England during fall foliage season.
Analyze distances between destinations and choose a logical, efficient route. Using an online mapping tool can help optimize your road trip path. Look into scenic drives like Route 66 or the Pacific Coast Highway to add more adventure. Try to minimize excessive backtracking that adds unnecessary mileage.
Aim for a realistic schedule that allows you time to explore without being rushed. And build in some flexibility in case you want to add spontaneous stops or detours along the way. Part of the fun of a road trip is the freedom to be spur-of-the-moment when discovering unexpected gems. With an epic cross-country route mapped out, you’ll be ready to hit the open road.
Book Accommodations
When planning accommodations for a road trip, it’s important to book hotels/motels in advance whenever possible. Sites like Hotels.com, Booking.com, and Expedia allow you to reserve rooms ahead of time, which can save you money compared to walk-in rates.
While hotels offer comfortable beds and amenities, consider camping some nights as well to reduce lodging costs. National parks and state parks have campgrounds, or you can stay at privately owned campsites. Equipment like tents, sleeping bags, and camping stoves can be purchased affordably if you don’t already own them. Walmart and sporting goods stores have budget options.
Research Camping Options Along Your Route
If camping, research options along your route in advance. Check availability of sites and reserve a spot if possible. For more flexibility, you can stay in hotels some nights and camp other nights. This allows you to experience the great outdoors while also enjoying hot showers and soft beds periodically.
Packaged meals like instant oatmeal, trail mix, beef jerky, and protein bars are easy camping breakfast and snack options. Bring hot dogs, beans, pasta, and other non-perishables to cook over the fire for dinners. Make sure to pack any needed cookware and utensils.
With a mix of hotel stays and camping, you can comfortably lodge across the country in a budget-friendly manner. Just be sure to plan accommodations ahead of time whenever possible.
Plan Your Activities
Planning activities for your road trip can really enhance the experience and allow you to see top attractions along your route. Do some research ahead of time on the types of activities available given the route you have chosen. Focus on national parks, landmarks, hiking trails, kayaking locations, and other outdoor adventures that fit with a road trip centered around kayaking adventures.
Some key ideas for planning activities:
- Look at national park websites to see what activities are available in each one. Some may offer kayak rentals or kayak tours. Make note of any entry fees or permit requirements.
- Search for local kayaking groups/meetups in the areas you’ll be visiting. They may have recommendations for the best places to kayak or even group outings you could join.
- Use apps like AllTrails to find hiking trails and waterfalls for possible spontaneous stops or leg-stretcher breaks. This allows flexibility in your schedule.
- Check online listings for any festivals, fairs, or events happening when you’ll be passing through different towns and cities. These can make for fun local experiences.
- Consider booking any advanced tickets needed for special attractions like museums or historical sites that you want to visit along the way.
The key is having a good list of activity options you’d like to do, but also remaining flexible. Not every day needs to be rigidly planned out.
Pack Properly
When packing for a road trip, especially one that involves outdoor adventures like kayaking, proper preparation is key. Make a checklist of essentials and check them off as you pack to avoid forgetting anything important.
Clothing
The key for clothing is layers. Bring short sleeves and long sleeves, pants and shorts, sweaters and jackets. The weather can change rapidly when you’re traveling across the country, so you want to be ready for anything. Prioritize materials like wool and synthetics that will keep you warm even when wet. Don’t forget weather-appropriate accessories like hats, gloves, and rain gear as well.
Toiletries
Pack all your basic toiletries like toothbrush, toothpaste, and any skincare or makeup items you use daily. If you’ll be camping or staying in more rustic accommodations, bring travel sizes or camping-friendly biodegradable products when possible.
First Aid Kit
You never know when you might need band aids, antiseptic, pain relievers, antihistamines, or motion sickness tablets. Pack a small first aid kit that covers your basic needs so you’re prepared in case of minor injuries or illnesses. Check expiration dates before your trip.
Other Essentials
Things like sunscreen, bug spray, flashlight, multitool, and backup battery pack all come in handy on road trips. Make a list based on your specific trip and packing needs. Having the right gear makes outdoor adventures more enjoyable.
With the proper essentials packed using organized checklists, you’ll be ready to hit the road prepared for whatever your kayaking road trip throws your way.
Transport Your Kayak Securely
Transporting your kayak is one of the most important parts of road tripping with a kayak. You’ll want to make sure your kayak is properly secured to avoid any damage or accidents. Here are some tips:
- Use kayak roof racks or a trailer to transport your kayak. Roof racks that cradle the kayak are best for minimizing wind resistance. Make sure to get ones that fit your vehicle and kayak size. Trailers are a great option if towing ability is not an issue.
- Secure the kayak properly using straps or ropes. For roof racks, tie down both the front and back securely. Many racks use cradles and straps. Ratchet straps work well to keep the kayak snug in a trailer. Make sure there is no room for movement.
- Use bow and stern lines for additional stability. Extra ropes tied off on the front and back help reduce vibration or shift during transport.
- Add padding to prevent scratching. Foam blocks, pool noodles or towels can help cushion contact points.
- Check straps frequently if traveling long distances. Stop and make sure the kayak is still securely fastened. Long trips can loosen straps.
- Remove any loose accessories or gear from the kayak. Make sure paddles, life jackets and other items are stored separately.
Properly securing your kayak is a critical safety step. Take the time to strap it down tightly and check frequently on your trip. This will allow you to get where you’re going with your kayak in one piece!
Research Launch Sites
One of the most important parts of planning a USA road trip with a kayak is researching potential launch sites along your route. This will allow you to identify suitable lakes and rivers to kayak as you travel across the country.
When researching launch sites, look for bodies of water that fit the experience you’re seeking. Flatwater lakes and slow rivers are best for leisurely paddling, while rivers with some whitewater rapids can offer a more exciting kayaking adventure. Consider the time of year as well – some waterways may be inaccessible or dangerous during certain seasons.
Many launch sites in state/national parks and public lands require permits for parking and launching. Do your research ahead of time to determine if you need to obtain permits or reservations for your chosen locations. This is especially important for more popular destinations. Some private marinas and launch ramps may require day use fees. Having permits and payment handled in advance will make your launch experiences smooth and hassle-free.
Online resources like the American Whitewater website allow you to search for launch points by location and see details like permit requirements, parking availability, and whitewater ratings for each site. Local kayaking groups and outdoor shops in your destination areas can also provide excellent insider knowledge on the best launch locations.
Planning your launch sites ahead of your kayaking road trip will make for an amazing experience paddling the lakes, rivers and waterways along your route. With the proper research and preparation, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the peace of gliding across the water and the exhilaration of riding river rapids on your USA kayaking adventure.
Kit Out Your Vehicle
Kayak road trips allow you to explore a variety of waterways across the country. To make the journey between destinations safe and comfortable, be sure to properly kit out your vehicle.
Stock up on road trip essentials like healthy snacks, water, phone chargers, and pillows to relax during long drives. Bring plenty of extra masks and sanitizer wipes to stay safe when stopping for gas and food.
Maps, both paper and GPS, are key for navigating across the country. Purchase an atlas or road map showing your intended route. Download maps offline on your phone or bring a dedicated GPS device as backup. Being prepared if you lose cell service prevents getting lost.
Safety is paramount when road tripping. Build a roadside emergency kit containing a first aid kit, flashlight, blankets, jumper cables, tire inflator, traction pads, and any tools needed to change a tire. This allows you to handle minor issues if your vehicle breaks down in a remote area.
Properly kitting out your vehicle makes the transport and journey portion of your kayak road trip more comfortable. Stock up on essentials, maps, and emergency gear so you can focus on enjoying the water portion of your adventure stress-free.
Create A Flexible Itinerary
The key to a successful road trip is having a solid plan in place, but also being open to detours and spontaneous adventures along the way. Map out a rough itinerary highlighting the must-see attractions and kayak launch sites, but leave plenty of blank space in your schedule. Road trips are all about the journey, not just the destination, so make sure to leave room for unexpected stops and spur-of-the-moment fun.
Bookend your trip with lodging and confirmed activities, but keep the middle flexible. Don’t overpack your schedule trying to squeeze in too many miles or stops each day. Leave time for pulling off the highway when something catches your eye, chatting with locals for insider tips, or just sitting roadside and watching the world go by. Build in buffer days with no firm plans between heavy driving or activity-filled days.
Chat with other travelers you meet about their favorite stops and hidden gems. Follow interesting road signs down promising side roads. By creating a flexible itinerary, you give yourself the freedom to have an epic adventure full of pleasant surprises.
Enjoy The Journey!
A road trip kayaking adventure is all about enjoying the journey, not just the destination. As you make your way across the country, make sure to:
Take lots of photos. Document your trip with tons of pictures at kayak launches, scenic overlooks, landmarks, and anywhere else that captures the spirit of your adventure. You’ll appreciate having photos to look back on later.
Share updates with friends back home. Let your loved ones follow along on your trip by posting photos and updates to social media. They’ll get to experience it vicariously through you.
Relax and soak up the views. Don’t get so caught up in kayaking and sightseeing that you forget to slow down. Build in plenty of leisure time to unwind and appreciate the natural beauty around you. Put your feet up, read a book, meditate – do whatever nourishes your soul.
The open road is calling. Now get out there and make some memories! This is sure to be an epic kayaking road trip for the books.
