The Ultimate Summer Road Trip Guide

There is something magical about summertime. Especially if you live somewhere where is it seems to be over before it really gets started. That is the way it is here in northern Montana where we live. It just feels wrong not to make the most of sunny days because they are elusive and fleeting. We try to go on several road trips each summer. There is something undeniably enchanting about summer road trips. Whether you are exploring undiscovered areas in your own part of the world, chasing sunsets along the coast or winding through mountain passes. We are so lucky to live in the Northwest as there are so many possible amazing destinations within a fairly close distance. This road trip guide will help you plan, pack and avoid any mishaps along the way! 🚗

Step 1: Select Your Destination

It is always great to choose a destination that you are interested in, but the journey is the star of the show. Whether you are going coast to coast or staying much closer to home, here are some classic routes and some of our favorites to choose from: The Pacific Coast Highway, Route 66, or the Blue Ridge Parkway are some notable and nationally recognizable drives. For us, some of our local favorites have been Alberta, CA, Coeur d’Alene Idaho, Leavenworth, WA, Philipsburg, MT & Fernie, BC. We try to go somewhere new each year.

Step 2: Pack With Intention. Keep it Light. Road Trip Packing Checklist

• Phone charger and car mount.
• Cooler with plenty of snacks and drinks. Snackle boxes are perfect for packing candy and smaller goodies. Bogg bags are perfect for organizing all sorts of necessities.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses.
• Paper maps (Just in case).
• First aid kit complete with pain reliever, cold meds and allergy meds as needed. Don’t forget prescriptions!
• Reusable water bottles for each traveler.
• Blankets and travel pillows.
• All needed clothing (make sure to pack a jacket and some warm clothes, you never know). Don’t forget bathing suits and towels.
• Hygiene essentials. Wet wipes and dry shampoo can be particularly handy to have.
• Bug repellant and anti itch medication in case they get you anyway.
• Driver’s license, registration , insurance and passports if they will be necessary.

Below please find links for a Bogg Bag with an organizer, some snackle boxes and a really nice paper Atlas. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. No additional cost to you. 😊

Step 3: Prepare Your Car To Avoid Mishaps

• Check and top off all fluids. Have the oil changed if you are close to being due. Check coolant/antifreeze, brake fluid, transmission fluid and windshield wiper fluid
• Carefully inspect the tires and make sure you have a good spare onboard, check the tire pressure and consider an alignment and rotation if you haven’t done it for awhile
• Check brakes, inspect belts and hoses and replace wiper blades if needed. Make sure the heating and air conditioning are functioning properly. Have jumper cables or a jump starter with you
• Wash the exterior and clean and organize the interior thoroughly. Get a fun and great smelling new air freshener. It is so much more enjoyable to begin your journey in a clean, well organized and fresh smelling car!

The best part of a road trip is not just reaching your destination, it is the unexpected treasures you find along the way, the detours that become highlights and the stories you will have to tell and the memories you will make. Stop at interesting roadside attractions, dine at local eateries, talk to locals, they are full of suggestions for things that you may otherwise never know about , let spontaneity take over. Take pictures, document and journal if that is your thing. At the end of the day, the best road trips are the ones that you are prepared for so you can relax and enjoy the ride and your experiences. Double check your bags, cue up your favorite playlist and hit the road! Who knows what adventures just may be in store. Don’t forget the snacks!!! Have a great trip! 🚗

Below please find a link for a really nice travel journal if that is your thing! As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. No additional cost to you.😊

Travel Journalhttps://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0C34D8XGF?smid=A2AVDLH2UGT9HB&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=mrshovland64-20&linkId=f5ddc802b2d80bc36b04623e59d1e513&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tlhttps://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0C34D8XGF?smid=A2AVDLH2UGT9HB&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=mrshovland64-20&linkId=f5ddc802b2d80bc36b04623e59d1e513&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl

Here are a few shots from some our favorite road trips! 🧡 The Hovlands