The Ultimate Family Summer Road Trip Experience

The Grizzly Giant tree in Yosemite’s Mariposa Grove is 3,000 years old.

PHOTO BY: DAVID MCNEW/GETTY IMAGES

Going on a summer road trip is a fun way to explore new places and make memories with the entire family. I like to experience the freedom of the open road bounded only by your imagination, curiosity, a dependable vehicle and viable roads.

However, not planning ahead can put a damper on your journey. So make sure to pack the right items. This is true whether you are traveling by yourself, with friends, or with family. Making sure you have everything you need can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

This guide will help you identify which items you want to bring depending on what trip you’re taking, essential for an amazing time. It includes must-see places, important items to bring, and delicious snacks to keep you energized.

Possible Road Trip Destinations in the U.S.

The U.S. has a vast and well established road system that’s not only typically in great condition, but also documented and updated almost in real time.

Below are some top destinations to consider that are trending in 2024:

Northern California

• Starting Point: San Francisco, California: Begin your adventure in the vibrant city of San Francisco. Visit iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island before hitting the road.

Hotel Zephyr San Francisco

• Places to Stay: For a comfortable stay, consider Hotel Zephyr near Fisherman’s Wharf or the boutique Hotel Nikko.

Hotel Nikko

• To begin your road trip from San Francisco, rent a car from one of the city’s many rental agencies. It’s the easiest way to travel.

• Yosemite National Park, California: Just a few hours from San Francisco, Yosemite offers breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities.

Ahwahnee Hotel

• Where to Stay: Choose between the fancy Ahwahnee Hotel for history or the budget-friendly cabins at Evergreen Lodge.

Evergreen Lodge

Las Vegas and Grand Canyon

Visit Las Vegas, Nevada after enjoying Yosemite’s beauty for entertainment and nightlife in a lively city setting.

The Bellagio

• Where to Stay: The Bellagio is fancy and has a fountain show, while the LINQ Hotel is a cheaper option.

LINQ Hotel

• Travel: The drive from Yosemite to Las Vegas takes around seven hours. Consider stopping at Death Valley National Park along the way for unique landscapes.

• Grand Canyon, Arizona: No road trip is complete without a visit to the Grand Canyon. Its awe-inspiring vistas are a must-see.

El Tovar Hotel

• Where to Stay: El Tovar Hotel has historic charm by the rim, while Bright Angel Lodge offers cheaper lodging choices.

Bright Angel Lodge

• Travel: From Las Vegas, it’s about a four-hour drive to the Grand Canyon. Plan to leave early to maximize your time at the park.

New Mexico

• Drive a piece of American history on Route 66 from Arizona to New Mexico.

Hotel Little America, Flagstaff, AZ

• Where to stay: Choose Little America Hotel in Flagstaff, AZ or El Rancho Hotel in Gallup, New Mexico for accommodations.

El Rancho Hotel, Gallup, NM

• Travel: This pretty road has lots of interesting places to visit and small towns to explore, making the trip fun.

• Santa Fe, New Mexico: End your road trip in the artistic and cultural hub of Santa Fe.

Inn and Spa at Loretto

• You can stay at the luxurious and unique Inn and Spa at Loretto. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, consider the Santa Fe Sage Inn. Both offer comfortable accommodations in Santa Fe.

Santa Fe Sage Inn

• Travel: From Gallup, it’s a three-hour drive to Santa Fe. Enjoy the desert landscapes and consider a stop in Albuquerque along the way.

• If you have time, visit the White Sands National Park. It’s almost a four hour drive from Santa Fe but well worth the experience.

Essential Road Trip Items

Before hitting the road, ensure your vehicle is in good condition. Check the oil, tire pressure, and fluid levels.

Packing the right essentials can make your road trip more comfortable and enjoyable. Here’s a list of must-have items for your journey.

• Stay Connected: Keep a phone charger and a list of emergency contacts handy. Consider a portable Wi-Fi hotspot if you need reliable internet access.

• Navigation Tools: While GPS is handy, having a physical map as a backup can be invaluable. Apps like Google Maps and Waze are also essential for real-time updates. We like Roadtrippers to help you to plan your route and discover interesting stops along the way.