How to Drive Cross Country By Yourself

If the open road is calling you (or you have to move across country), don't be afraid to jump in the car and make the trip alone. It's a great way to see how vast these United States are, and depending on your timetable, you can spend a little time seeing some of the landmark tourist attractions along the way. There are as many ways to make the trip as there are highways crisscrossing the nation; but here are a few simple pointers to make your trip solo easy to manage, no matter which direction you take.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Atlas or road map

How to Drive Cross Country By Yourself

1. Before your trip, take out your United States atlas and look at the country. Decide which route you want to take. The most direct route is Highway 40, straight across the middle, which takes about five eight-hour days of driving. You can also go the Northern route (Highway 80) or the Southern route (Highway 10), or customize your route to visit friends and relatives, or famous landmarks.
2. If you're the very organized sort, you can book motels along the way in advance. Traveling alone, this might give you some comfort to know where you're stopping. If you're the type who is up for an adventure, there is no shortage of motels along the major cross-country highways. Traveling solo allows the freedom to choose whenever you feel like stopping for the night.
3. Have one person you call to check in with each night so someone knows where you are, and that you are safe. You'll look forward to talking to someone after eight hours on the road alone!
4. Pack a variety of music or audio books. Save money by borrowing the audio books from the library. You won't be sorry when you hit those huge empty stretches of highway and need a story to occupy your mind.
5. Enjoy the sights on your way, and take lots of pictures!

Tips & Warnings

• If you're worried about safety, pack a flashlight, a cellphone and charger, and always fill up for gas in a well-lit and busy gas station.
• Fast food restaurant bathrooms are cleaner if you have to make that pit stop.
• Snacking on nuts and raisins. Opening your windows for fresh air will keep you awake.
• Always stop when you are tired to avoid an accident.