How to Locate Truck Stops

The drive is 29 hours, straight through, but you need gas and food along the way. Find a place to take a break during the trip. Locate a truck stop to enjoy a snack and some rest before hitting the road again.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Plan the route according to where rest is required. Think about who's traveling. Your kids and some older passengers may need more bathroom breaks, and you may need to stretch your legs.

2. Find an atlas, truck stop guide book or truckers' website to figure out which facilities are located. There are usually several truck stops in and around larger cities; small towns offer fewer options.

3. List the needs of the passengers. Consider amenities like handicap accessibility and game or TV rooms for the kids. Make sure the restaurant is open for the 3:00 a.m. rest break.

4. Take time to shop. Call the potential havens at the truck stop. Ask about security, traffic and lighting. Remember truck stops are sometimes dangerous places. Call local law enforcement and ask about a truck stop's history.

5. Finalize the route, and you're ready to hit the road.

Tips & Warnings

• The benefits of small town truck stops include solitude and scenic splendor, but services, traffic and security may be limited. Make sure you're comfortable with the trade offs. More people, more light and a police presence equal more safety.
• Truck stops and rest stops are not the same thing. Rest stops' services are usually limited to vending machines and toilet facilities. Generally, they have no employees and little security. This makes rest are dubious choices, especially when you're traveling alone.

Resources

• Truck Stop Info Plus