You’ve talked about doing this for years and the time has finally come. You and your friends have decided to finally take the most epic cross-country road trip of all time. Starting at the beautiful Jersey shore and finishing in the lovely bay area in California, you are ready for the magnitude of the trip filled with memories and experiences to blow your mind and last a lifetime.
Your legendary trek will span 3,000 miles, include endless laughs, great friends and the best time of your young 20-something lives. This kind of trip requires tons of provisions, and of course, a daily log, to document your legendary quest and for the enjoyment of generations to come.
Here are excerpts from my own 14-day cross-country road trip course log to serve as a quick guide of what you can expect to maximize your trip of a lifetime!
Course Log // Day 0: Prepare The Right Way
Before we set out on our trip we stopped at a convenience store. We picked up chips and soda, and most importantly coffee - hot, cold, canned - you named it we got it. We need that extra energy for the trip of a lifetime.
Tip: This will be the best trip of your life if you can avoid fatigue and hunger! Stock up on snacks at least the day before and remember to get your car checked out before you hit the road.
Course Log // Day 1: Make Time To Go Exploring
We are leaving the sandy beaches in favor of the urban jungle! On day 1, head west toward the always beautiful Philadelphia. Home to the best cheesesteak on Earth, the city of brotherly love has so much to offer. We are taking the day to tour the city and tomorrow off to Pittsburgh.
Tip: make time for sightseeing and touring before you slide into the driver’s seat. Even if it’s just googling places to go, you’ll appreciate it once you’ve arrived. If you’re on a tight schedule, knowing, for example, where to find the best darn cheesesteaks in Philly can save you time.
Course Log // Day 2: Insta-Worthy Photos Come From Simple Moments
The journey is taking us west. We are passing through central Pennsylvania including Hershey and Harrisburg. Central Pennsylvania is beautiful, there is a ton of farmland and many rolling hills. I’m ready for Pittsburgh!
Tip: Don’t just live for the nights roaming your destination! Roadtripping is exciting, but don’t feel obligated to do and see everything everywhere you go. This is about you. Take the time to chill out, and if that means hitting the hay a little early while your friends go out--hey, at least you’ll feel refreshed and ready to take the wheel if needed.
Course Log // Day 3: You Don’t Have To Do It All
Day three takes us to Pittsburgh. The Steel City is known for its sports teams, steel mills and beautiful scenery. Spending the day here is peaceful and relaxing, to so the least!
Tip: You are travelling through small cities, big cities, and some of the oldest and most interesting Be sure to take it all in and enjoy some of the coolest attractions in the country, right there in Pittsburgh.
Course Log // Day 4: Plan to pull together resources!
Today we made it to Canton, Ohio! Canton is the home to the Football Hall of Fame. Enjoying the atmosphere and the beautiful summer weather. Today, we also stocked up on food and other supplies. Coffee is on the top of our list, duh.
Tip: The beauty of a road trip with friends is that you can split the cost of gas and snacks. There are plenty of apps to choose from to send each other cash for minor stuff. Don’t forget to get cash for any tolls!
Course Log // Day 5: Do Your Research
We headed northwest and ended up in Detroit! The motor city has a rich history and it sits near the banks of Lake Erie, making this stop great for a beach day. At night, fireworks light up the night over the river giving some awesome views.
Tip: This doesn’t have to be similar to that research paper you wrote for that history class. Doing a little homework will make touring historical sites even more interesting. Before you plan your trip, see if there are any specific festivals or concerts you want to visit and plan your travel accordingly.
Course Log // Day 6: Everything Doesn’t Require A Photo
Detour southwest to Indiana, specifically Fort Wayne. Fort Wayne is home to an awesome petting zoo. That means, selfies with all the animals!!!
Tip: We might have overdone, but you don’t have to. Every moment doesn’t mean you have to whip out your phone to document it. I know it’s hard, but I recommend choosing only the photos that capture the highlights of your trip. You will appreciate the extra space on your phone at the end.
Course Log // Day 7: When In Rome...
Keep going south to for a few hours and hit the Arch! St. Louis has great barbecue and of course some awesome landmarks. Tons of things to do and fascinating exhibits at the museum makes for a great day!
Tip: When you aren’t checking out tourist attractions, find out where the locals go! Sometimes this is even more fun, checking out the dives and other locales when getting to know a new place.
Course Log // Day 8: Meet New People
Directly west is Kansas City, Kansas. Make your “I’m not in Kansas anymore” jokes, but this is a real up and coming city with food and festivities to fill your stop. Good laughs and good friends makes this city a hit!
Tip: It isn’t always the places you go that makes a place memorable. Sometimes it’s the people you meet. Don’t be afraid to strike up conversation with locals even if it’s just to ask for directions.
Course Log // Day 9: Take A Walk!
On the road, west again brings us to Colorado. Beautiful mountains, lakes, and some snow, it is a dream come true. This is one of those places you never want to leave.
Tip: If the weather allows, get out of the car and stretch your legs! Being in a car for three or four hours can leave everyone feeling antsy. Taking a hike through the beautiful mountains and parks can lead to more adventures. Just don’t forget where you parked car.
Course Log // Day 10: Pack For Every Adventure
A day trip to Denver is a must. Skiing, and snow are all the rage here. In Denver you are on top of the world. A long day of skiing and snowboarding will require a lot of caffeine, but we are ready!
Tip: Research where you’re going and especially what the weather is like. Remembering a light jacket or umbrella can mean the difference between being miserable and enjoying your trip. But definitely be sure to check out the local favorite activities when possible like skiing and snowboarding!
Course Log // Day 11: Take The Long Way
Driving northwest, through Wyoming, we hit the salt flats of Utah. For never being this far west you never really appreciate the magnificent state of Utah. Waterfalls, elegant rock formations and forests makes this state something different.
Tip: You might find a few gems if you take the scenic route. Yes, it might take longer but think of what you could find.
Course Log // Day 12: Don’t Be Afraid To Deviate From The Plan
Head south to Sin City. You can see the entire world in one city, it is absolutely incredible. Spending a few days here to see the scenery. Hopefully we have time to see it all!
Tip: It is OK to not stick to the plan. You went on a road trip for adventure, so don’t feel obligated to always play it safe.
Course Log // Day 13: Set An Alarm And Stick To It!
Took a few days to recover in Vegas, it was a great time. After a few days there, you’re going to need it. Going to need some coffee to make to our final stop, San Francisco!
Tip: Nothing throws a great trip off like oversleeping. If you are out late the night before, ask everyone to set an alarm for the same time so that everyone can wake up in time.
Course Log // Day 14: Celebrate That You Made It This Far
The 10-hour expedition will finally take us to the promised land, San Francisco. Landmarks to hit include the bridge and the baseball field. But most importantly, the best sunset in the world can be found over the bay. That in itself, made the trip all worthwhile.
Tip: Long rides, motel rooms and uncomfortable car naps can take their toll, but you did it! You took what was once an idea, and made it possible. Celebrate that you made it this far, and it will only get better.
The most epic roadtrip known to man has finally come to an end. Fun was had, great food was downed and most importantly memories were made. The once in a lifetime time has came and went; but the memory of the trip will be forever in our hearts. We came, we saw and boy, did we conquer. So now we challenge you, can you top such an epic journey?
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