There’s almost nothing more classically American than a road trip. And who can resist the appeal of such an iconic US adventure? The wind in your hair, the lure of the open road, the freedom… it’s enough to get your adventure engine revving high!
Read on for three iconic American road trip routes and to find out which one is just your speed.
Route 66
When it comes to American road trip routes, none is more iconic than Route 66. The drive from Chicago to Los Angeles is long and straight and can be completed in as little as five days, although it is recommended you spread out your travels over several weeks (or even a month) to truly make the most of this experience. You’ll pass by quintessentially American truck stops, towns and motels and, if you feel like venturing off the beaten path a bit, the Grand Canyon, Santa Fe and Las Vegas are all easily reachable. Whether you’re itching to be on the road like Jack Kerouac or just looking to get your kicks, this legendary journey will intimately acquaint you with the classic American spirit.
Pacific Coast Highway
This gorgeous drive will take you from San Francisco to Los Angeles – and yes, it’s important you begin in San Francisco, as the views are far better from this direction. You will be able to experience all the natural beauty and uniqueness of the Pacific Coast first hand and at your own pace, with everything from remote seaside towns and state parks to redwoods and beaches.
Las Vegas Loop
The Las Vegas Loop will take you from the brightly-lit Vegas strip to the often-romanticised Wild West, all while speeding down long, straight, empty and classically USA roads. You’ll have a front row seat to the red rocks of the desert, the lush national parks and the history of the local Navajo people and their culture.
Invest in Travel Insurance and a Car Rental Excess Insurance
Before you get completely swept up in the excitement of an American adventure, it’s important to make sure you’re safe and covered. You should very strongly consider investing in travel insurance and, if you choose to hire a vehicle, take out the extra option of car rental excess insurance. This is a wise choice to give yourself peace of mind in case something unfortunate should happen; after all, while you’re off playing Thelma and Louise, you never know when an accident or theft could occur. Better safe than sorry, right?
With that all sorted, you can give in to the allure of the open road. There’s nothing more romantic (and romanticised) than an American road trip – and no journeys are better than the classic Route 66, the naturally beautiful Pacific Coast Highway and the adventurous Las Vegas Loop.
Martin Wynn
