Distance Calculation
Plan for five to six hours of driving per day. Calculate gas station stops every 200–250 miles based on your vehicle's fuel capacity.
Map out anchor points for sleeping, eating, and attractions. Use maps and a spreadsheet to note each point, including:
- Drive times
- Alternative routes
- Points of interest
Download offline maps for areas with poor signal. Add PDFs of hotel confirmations and restaurant menus for easy access.
Pro tip: Plan about 70% of your trip to allow for spontaneous detours and discoveries.
Route Flexibility
Plot primary stops for lodging and attractions, but allow for detours between them. Use route-planning software to bookmark key locations and create a spreadsheet with arrival times, distances, and alternative paths.
Choose lodging with flexible check-in options. Identify high-priority attractions while leaving room for unexpected stops.
Reassess your route as you travel using real-time traffic updates. Use technology to:
- Avoid storms or traffic
- Find hidden roadside attractions
Remember: Be open to short detours based on local suggestions or online discoveries.
Strategic Fuel Stops
Determine your vehicle's fuel range and schedule stops every 200-250 miles. Use apps like GasBuddy for real-time fuel prices and offline maps for areas with poor connectivity.
Create a list of fuel stops along your route, noting major intersections or towns with multiple gas stations. Add this information to your trip spreadsheet or device.
Reassess your fuel strategy as needed based on traffic patterns or road conditions. Have alternate fuel stops in case of closures or long lines.
Consider exploring the local area during fuel stops to make them more than just a necessity.
Offline Preparations
Download offline maps of your route. Save essential documents like reservations and emergency contacts on your devices in easily accessible formats.
Use cloud services with offline functionality to store trip-related files. Ensure documents are in a universally readable format.
- Pack a backup battery or power bank
- Maintain electronic cables and adapters
- Identify roadside stops with charging facilities
Safety tip: Keep a physical road atlas as a backup.
- Hooper B. Digital route optimisation for maritime fuel compliance. Lloyd's Register. 2023.
- Hughes E. Future fuels and maritime route planning. International Bunker Industry Association. 2023.