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What Is a Spontaneous Road Trip? (How to take one)

  • Date: September 27, 2021
  • Time to read: 5 min.

A spontaneous road trip is a great way to spend a long weekend or even a lazy Saturday. What exactly is a spontaneous road trip and how can you enjoy one?

A spontaneous road trip is a road trip that is not planned in advance. Spontaneous road trips can be hours or days long, but it must not have any itinerary or previous planning. Spontaneous road trips make a great affordable vacation. 

What is considered a road trip?

There is some debate in the travel community about when a trip is considered a road trip. I ran some numbers and found that most people consider a road trip to be a trip of about 2 hours or more. 

The truth is that you can decide if it is a road trip or not , but it should include:

Driving in your car

An Exciting Destination 

Make your destination a place you have never visited before, and make it outside your normal travel radius. 

There are some good reasons to do this, there was a super interesting twitter study that showed that there is an optimal distance to travel from home to be the happiest. Read more about it in this post which gives you the details and some extra tips to plan a stress free road trip. 

You can also up the road trip vibes you can also add these classic activities:

Sleeping Away From Home

A Road Trip Playlist

Packing Snacks

Eating in The Car

Buying a Car Sticker at Your Destination 

What should I bring on a spontaneous road trip?

Embrace the unknown in a spontaneous road trip, and do not overpack. You should grab a few things to be ready for a spontaneous road trip:

Change of clothes

Sweater or Sweatshirt

Phone Charger

Closed Toe Shoes 

Water Bottle

Cash (or another method to pay tolls)

Pen and Notebook (Document!)

You don’t need too much , but a backpack full of essentials will make you more flexible. 

I am a gear freak, I like to have a very stocked van, so that we can be ready to adventure at any time. 

Here is what I keep in my van:

  • Antibiotic Ointment
  • Plastic Utensils
  • Kitchen Knife
  • Aspirin (in case of heart attack)
  • Toothbrushes
  • Flip Flops (for everyone)

These things cover the basic things we need if we want to split a fast food meal, or someone gets stung by a bee. 

Having these basic things in the van makes it possible to just go. If we decide to spontaneously spend the night away we can stop for extra clothes at a thrift store. 

We have 4 young kids and we have done some pretty spontaneous trips with just what we keep in the van and the baby bag. 

How to plan a spontaneous day trip?

So, you cannot plan a spontaneous trip, but you can have a plan for how you will decide what to do once you are on the road. 

Write down your ideas

Once you are in the car write down a few very general ideas

Throw all the ideas into a hat, or a bag or a cup holder. Then draw out the winner, this will give you a good spontaneous trip idea!

Choose a Timeline

When you know what you will be doing, decide how long you want to be gone. This will give you an idea of how far you can travel. 

If this is a day trip, plan to drive no more than 2 hours from home. 

Travel in a new direction. Maybe you commute an hour North each day, see what lies out West. 

Fill in the Details

When you have your timeline and your objective, start driving. 

You can use these cool Google Maps features to find great places to visit or restaurants to visit. Google Maps has some lesser known features that will really help you out. 

My family recently went on a trip to a new state and a big highlight was trying the local fast food chains that are not available in our area. 

Try local favorites. Use that Google Maps trick to find pictures and browse the area. 

Spontaneous Road Trip

Ideas for a Spontaneous Road Trip

Here are my best tips to get you inspired to take a spontaneous road trip:

Try Only In Your State to find the prettiest hikes in your state, you may find a new favorite getaway! Look for stunning views, accessible trails, waterfalls or wildlife. 

Check out HipCamp to find a unique campsite for your trip. I am obsessed with getting to these trampoline tents in Tennessee . These campsites can be a destination in themselves. 

Visit A Museum or Historical Site

I have a few friends who love to seek out the historical markers that they find roadside. They stop and read them all. 

You can find a great map of these places on this site . This was a great quarantine adventure for my family. 

You can also look for interesting things on Roadtrippers, which shares attractions along any route you choose. 

Scavenger Hunt

A great way to spend a spontaneous road trip is to do a scavenger hunt. 

You could make a list together or find one online. I went ahead and made one for you, you can download it and print it here. 

Drive for Hours

You should get lots of inspiration from Within Hours . This is a site where you can enter your location and it will show you cities that are within hours or miles of your current location. 

I think this is an amazing tool for any road trip. 

spontaneous road trip meaning

Bucket List

Make a family bucket list, then divide the things on the list into categories. 

If you have some time, pull from the bucket that fits your limitations, but you have to promise that no matter what you pull from the list, you will do it!

My husband and I did this when we were first married, and it made for some really cool adventures. 

Go ahead, binge watch Diners Drive Ins and Dives, then go eat at one of the featured restaurants!

Take the trip for the food and see what you discover along the way. 

Should I take a spontaneous road trip?

A spontaneous road trip is a good idea for those who want an affordable vacation and have a reliable car. The costs of a road trip are gas, lodging and entertainment. By leaving the itinerary open you are able to travel within your budget without sacrificing adventure. 

Instead of wasting a three day weekend, jump in the car and see what adventure unfolds. 

If you do not have a reliable car, you may find that renting is a good option. 

As long as your car is reliable and you have enough money for gas, a spontaneous road trip is a great idea. 

Should I quit and travel?

Previous Post

Should I Quit My Job for a Road Trip? 7 Other Options

17 ways to stay busy on a road trip.

spontaneous road trip meaning

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Why You Should Take A Spontaneous Road Trip (& How To Plan It)

It is important to strike the sweet balance between planning and spontaneity on an epic road trip.

Quick Links

Not all the best places are known, limit road trip planning to a minimum, striking the balance.

One of the main attractions of going on a road trip is the freedom of it. There's nothing like experiencing the freedom to roam and being able to go wherever one wants. But for some, it is also important to structure and plan a road trip so that they can see the must-see attractions and not drive past things worth seeing.

The United States is without a doubt one of the best (perhaps even the best) countries in the world for an epic road trip. If one is planning to road trip across the country, then one may want to have some answers to the FAQs . For an ultimate road trip consider driving the Pan American Highway - it is the longest "motorable" road in the world running from Alaska to Argentina.

Admittedly, if a place is touristic, there is likely a good reason why. Most tourist places are worth seeing. But just because places are not touristic, that doesn't mean they are not worth seeing.

For example, there are lots of desert attractions around Las Vegas - but that is mostly because folks are already in Vegas and are looking for day activities. Nevada is a state bursting with natural attractions, but they are often remote and few bother to go there. Many places are popular because of proximity more than by virtue of being something truly unique.

Part of the point of a road trip is to seek out the lesser non-known places and to discover gems for oneself.

For the ultimate road trip - consider some of the longest roads in the world.

Longest Roads:

  • Pan American Highway: 15,000-19,000 Miles (24,000-30,000km) (Longest "Motorable" Road)
  • Australia's Highway 1: 9,000 miles (14,500 km) - Longest National Highway In The World
  • Trans-Canada Highway: 4,645 miles (7,476 km) - Longest North American Highway
  • Route 20: 3,365 miles (5,415 km) Longest Highway In The USA
  • Route 66: 2,448 Miles

Related: Here’s How Long It Would Take You To Drive All The Way Around Australia

In some instances, it is important to plan ahead or some of the destinations and attractions will be sold out. One may want to spend some time camping in a national park - but without a reservation made months in advance, it could be booked out. Activities like horseback riding in the Grand Canyon need to be made well in advance.

  • Booking Ahead: Some Things Need To Be Booked In Advance (But Most Don't)

But over-planning takes out the spontaneity of a trip. Many of the best places to see and explore are largely unknown. Many of the most rewarding discoveries to be made on a trip are by just driving down a non-descript road and finding little gems along the way.

Some of the most memorable camping spots and most picturesque landscapes are located well off the tourist map.

In off-the-beaten-track locations, the other road-trippers one meets are likely to be a wealth of knowledge of lesser-known attractions in the area. Also, if one is going to a local bar or café, ask the locals about the places worth visiting and spending the night.

Suggestions For A Fun Road Trip:

  • Limit Planning: Plan Only The Main Destinations (Leaving A Skeleton Itinerary)
  • Limit Reservations: Only Reserve Places That Sell Out
  • Emphasis Flexibility: Be Flexible In The Road Trip
  • Ask Around: Ask Other Road Trippers and Locals For Suggestions

Related: It Takes This Long To Drive North America's Longest Highway

The trick is striking the balance between planning and spontaneity. The balance depends on every individual person and group. If there are things that one would like to see and explore, then build an itinerary around them, but leave flexibility to just drive down random roads and stop at random attractions that crop up along the highway.

One way to have a fun road trip is to avoid the main highways as much as possible. Take backroads to one's destination and see what is along the way.

  • Tip: Drive The Backroads

Some people do enjoy planning more than others. But the sweet spot is to find a balance between planning and spontaneity to discover the hidden gems and to have the flexibility to spend longer in surprisingly special places along the way.

Outside the United States, one of the best places in the world for a road trip is the stunning country of Namibia in Southern Africa.

Planes, Trains, & Monorails

Family travel tips from across town to around the world!

How to Take a Spontaneous Road Trip & Skip the Planning!

March 26, 2021 Leave a Comment

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Do you love traveling but hate planning trips? I completely understand. Researching and planning can be tedious and time consuming. So, I have an idea that will help you take an awesome vacation without all the planning. Why not take a spontaneous road trip without any plans?!?! Here’s how to do it!

Now, before we get into how to actually take a road trip without plans, let me tell you how I came up with this idea. My husband and I are planners by nature. But, one summer, I challenged myself to take a truly spontaneous trip without making any plans. We literally got in the car and took off!

Over the course of a week, we went from Texas to Kansas, all around Colorado and finally ended up in Phoenix, Arizona. And, I have to tell you, It was one of the best trips we’ve ever taken.

I highly recommend taking a spontaneous road trip without plans. You and your family will love it! The freedom that comes with it is so refreshing. So, let me show you how to go about having this awesome experience for yourself.

title graphic showing a winding road and the words "How to take a spontaneous road trip so you don't have to spend time making plans"

Step #1: Decide on the length of your spontaneous road trip.

Step #2: pack the car., step #3: pick a direction., step #4: stop and explore., step #5: call it a night when you get tired., step #6: pick a new direction each day., step #7: have fun, take the road less traveled., adopt an adventurous attitude., use it as an excuse to see friends and family., do things you otherwise wouldn’t do., flip a coin to choose your daily direction., let your kids decide the direction., be sure to leave yourself time to get home., enjoy the freedom of having no schedule..

While the whole point here is to NOT do any advance planning, there are a few things you need to decide on out of sheer necessity. The first one is the length of your trip.

The beauty of a spontaneous road trip is that it can be any length that you want!

We had a week off from work, so that’s how long our trip was. But, you can stay gone as many or as few days as your schedule allows.

A collection of luggage in the back of a car

The second necessary task is to pack your things. This is one aspect of your trip that can be more difficult because of your lack of planning.

It can be hard to pack if you don’t know where you’re going or what you’re going to be doing!

If you are going in the summer, this will be a little easier. You should be able to get away with summer clothing wherever you end up.

During other times of the year, you may want to check the weather in various areas of the country. You may want to avoid places that are expected to get bad weather during your trip.

The next step in taking a spontaneous road trip is to pick a direction to start. Because the whole point is to not make a plan, you only need a general direction to get started.

When we did our road trip without plans, we decided we would head north on our first day. Once we were on our way, we decided we would go all the way to Kansas and stop in to see my old college roommate.

Instead of decided on a destination, choose a direction and see where the day takes you. This will help you to stay plan-free throughout your trip.

A road leading towards a bridge

Now comes the fun part–starting your trip. Along the way, stop and explore whenever you see something that looks interesting.

Look at billboards and signs. If you spot something you think your family will enjoy, stop and check it out. If it requires you to take a detour, take it! Or change directions and head a different way if you feel like it.

Take your time. You’re not in a hurry. The beauty of a road trip without plans is that you don’t have a schedule you must stick to. You can check out all the things you otherwise would zoom past.

When you get hungry, find a cool restaurant to experience. Or stop at a farmer’s market and grab food for a picnic. Have fun with it! Let the wind take you where it may.

A statue of a fish on the side of the road

As you near the end of each day, start thinking about where and when to stop. Unlike on most trips, you don’t have to get to a particular place before you stop.

Instead, when you start to get tired, look for a place to spend the night. Find a hotel nearby and pull in. And as a bonus, sometimes you can get a cheap price on your room because hotels are anxious to fill unused rooms at the last minute.

On the other hand, if you are traveling in an RV, look for a campground or other place you can park for the night.

To make your road trip even more fun, pick a new direction of travel each day of your trip. Each morning, decide your new direction before heading out.

This will keep your family on their toes and really help you to stick to the spontaneous aspect of your trip. Each day will be a brand new adventure! Who knows where you will end up!

On our spontaneous road trip, each morning, we drove to the nearest highway and flipped a coin to pick our daily direction. Heads we go left! Tails we go right!

A road sign

The last step in taking a spontaneous road trip is to have fun with it! Really embrace this as a new and unique adventure for your family. Let your hair down and just enjoy!

The more fun you have with the trip, the more your family will also enjoy it. And, you never know, it may turn out to be the best family vacation you’ve ever taken!

Tips to make your spontaneous road trip great.

The following tips will help you make the most out of your road trip without plans.

To maximize the sightseeing aspect of your trip, get off the interstate. Instead, take smaller highways and back roads that go through small towns. This will give you the most opportunities to find awesome things to do.

A road and mountains

Get completely in the spirit of the trip by adopting an adventurous attitude. Have an open mind to everything you encounter. Be up for tackling anything. You will probably find that you and your family enjoy the trip so much more this way.

The great thing about a spontaneous road trip is that you are not locked into any one destination or direction. So, take advantage of it. Use it as an excuse to stop off and visit friends and family you haven’t seen in a while.

During our road trip, we dropped in on 2 different friends after we realized that we were relatively close to their homes as we were driving.

Like I mentioned before, be open minded during your trip. Do things you otherwise wouldn’t do.

Stop at roadside attractions. Take goofy pictures. Go for hikes. Explore farmer’s markets. Really get out of your comfort zone and go wild!

One way to choose which direction to go each day is to flip a coin. This is what we did on our trip. It adds an extra layer of fun to your trip.

A boy standing between two wooden seagulls

Another way to add some fun to your vacation is to let your kids decide which direction you go each day. You can either have them vote on it or give each kid a day to be in charge of which way you head.

Just don’t forget to leave yourself time to get home at the end of your trip. Don’t get so caught up in the freedom of no plans that you find yourself too far away to get back home in time.

Lastly, enjoy the freedom of having no schedule during your spontaneous road trip.

The whole reason for taking a road trip without any plans is to break away from the grind of an itinerary. Forget worrying about where you have to be and just be present in the moment.

Have fun spending time with your family going on an unforgettable adventure.

Taking a spontaneous road trip is a great way to break the mold of your traditional family vacation. It is also the best approach to take if you hate planning or just don’t have the time for it. Enjoy living in the moment!

For more road trip ideas, see how to save time on road trips , safety tips , creative road trip ideas , how to pack for road trips like a pro , and reasons for a family road trip .

To make your road trips with kids successful, see our ultimate guide to family road trips , tips for road trips with kids , best snacks , tips for road trips with babies and toddlers , pros and cons for road trips with kids , essential items , how to handle kids with car sickness , and screen free activities .

Also see why you should travel with your kids and how to plan an epic family vacation .

Happy travels!

P.S. Need help finding the best places to go on your family vacations? My Ultimate USA Bucket List for Families will instantly give you 60 of the best vacation destinations for families in the United States! Get it for FREE in the box below and start planning your next trip today! Plus, as a bonus, you will receive my weekly email newsletter full of family trip tips and inspiration!

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What's Hot

Why you should try spontaneous travel this year.

Senior Reporter, HuffPost Life

spontaneous road trip meaning

Planning a vacation often entails months of researching, asking friends for recommendations, strategizing around costs, making reservations and otherwise preparing for a nice escape from your everyday life. But that’s not the only way to travel. In fact, many people enjoy more last-minute getaways.

“Spontaneous travel is one of my absolute favorite ways to travel,” travel blogger Rocky Trifari told HuffPost. “The spontaneity takes away a lot of the stress that comes from the arduous planning and anticipation of a trip. It can even be empowering to recognize that in some cases, those planning procedures we typically follow aren’t nearly as necessary as we brainwash ourselves to believe.”

Taking a spontaneous trip is a great way to let flexibility be your guide and explore destinations that weren’t necessarily on your radar. Don’t hesitate to go outside your travel comfort zone. And it doesn’t necessarily mean you need to spend more money.

“It’s unlikely someone comes back from a trip regretting they took it, and additionally, the spontaneous travel doesn’t have to mean booking a flight the day before and traveling for a month,” said Katy Nastro, a spokesperson for Scott’s Cheap Flights . “It can even be seeing a great fare pop up, booking a week or long-weekend stay when you had no intention of taking that trip at all.”

Below, travel experts break down the benefits of spontaneous travel and share their top tips for making the best of a last-minute trip.

A spontaneous trip allows you to be more present.

“The benefit of spontaneous travel is that it allows you to be more present,” said travel blogger Esther Susag . “Instead of needing to make sure you check everything off of your planned itinerary, you are able to take it all in and not feel the pressure of needing to rush to your next stop.”

These types of trips tend to comes with more bare-bones itineraries ― or no itinerary at all ― which makes for a slower, calmer experience.

“With spontaneous travel, you don’t have the time to figure out every ‘top spot’ to see, so instead when you arrive and you find something you are enjoying, there’s not that pressure to leave immediately to fit everything in,” Susag said.

There’s greater openness to the endless possibilities in travel.

In October, the team at Skyscanner released a report about the happiness benefits of traveler spontaneity created in consultation with psychologist Emma Kenny.

Kenny “pointed out that spontaneous travel helps foster a ‘can-do’ attitude and reminds travelers of the limitless possibilities that await them,” said Laura Lindsay, Skyscanner’s travel trends expert. “When travelers are able to live in the moment, they’re able to experience the thrill of adventure without the stress of planning a trip and making all of the decisions that entails.”

Trifari echoed this sentiment, noting that he recently took an excellent last-minute trip to Chicago and unexpectedly made lifelong friends in the process.

“Spontaneous travel is a way to meet new people, discover destinations that maybe you wouldn’t have gone to ordinarily, and helps prevent decision paralysis, which stops many people from traveling in the first place,” he said.

If you're looking to up your travel game next year, consider not spending time planning a trip and jumping into "spontaneous travel" instead.

You can discover new sides of your travel personality.

“For the more organized and ‘Type A’ kind of traveler, spontaneous travel may allow them to take a new and different approach to travel, and they might be surprised at how much they enjoy having a more flexible schedule, maybe they will even find that they are less stressed overall,” Susag noted.

Of course, there are benefits to planning ahead for a trip, but having to be more spur-of-the-moment in your travels can lead to pleasant surprises and amazing adventures.

“You may not have found that amazing hole-in-the-wall restaurant where you got to chat with some locals about their country for hours as opposed to planning your meals around the highest-rated restaurants on Tripadvisor,” Susag said. “Instead of having your trip already planned out when you arrive, it may push you to ask locals some of their favorite hidden gems or places to see and that can lead you down some really unique and fun adventures that you wouldn’t have known about had you planned far in advance.”

The mental health benefits are real.

“There are countless surveys that affirm travelers are more healthy, happy and productive than non-travelers, and with the addition of spontaneity to the mix, you can expect an increase to all of the above,” Nastro said. “Spontaneous travel can have the power to release us from daily stresses, spark creativity and an overall sense of adventure when we immerse ourselves in a new place.”

In a time when many of us live über-scheduled lives, she emphasized the value of breaking away from routine by taking a last-minute trip. It can be especially helpful if you’re feeling a little stuck in a rut.

“And while going on a super long and well-planned vacation can be amazing, it may not necessarily mean you’ll be feeling transformed the entire trip,” Nastro said. “ A Dutch study at Radboud University in Nijmegen showed that trip length may not necessarily correlate to increased health and well-being as respondents said their health and wellness peaked at day eight, returning to pre-trip levels, so three one-week trips may be better than one three-week trip for overall well-being, for example.”

Spontaneous travel introduces more excitement and relaxation into our lives.

Here’s how to make spontaneous travel work for you.

Taking a spontaneous trip may feel daunting and unfamiliar at first, but the experts HuffPost spoke to shared their tips for making the most of it as well.

Be strategic about your flights.

“My advice for anyone wanting to try out spontaneous travel is to be strategic about how you buy your flights,” Susag said. “This is a great opportunity to use those credit card points you’ve been racking up and save some money.”

Don’t be afraid to book each leg with a separate airline, especially if you have a small number of loyalty points with different companies.

“Try to fly during the weekdays. Flight prices tend to be cheaper during the week as opposed to the weekend,” Susag added.

Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the best days to fly in terms of cost, crowds and cancellations, so consider booking those days if you can.

“Being able to work remotely in a location for a day or two can help to maximize your time away as well if you are short on vacation days,” Nastro noted.

Snag deals when they pop up.

“If an opportunity presents itself, take it!” Trifari urged. “Monitor flight prices, keep in touch with friends or family who may share an interest in traveling with you, and look for good deals online.”

There are lots of websites and apps that share good travel deals, like The Points Guy and Scott’s Cheap Flights.

“If you happen to see something that makes sense for your wallet ― a flight, accommodation, or itinerary ― book it,” Trifari said. “You can ask around and create a trip with memories that’ll last you a lifetime. Even if you go on your own, solo adventures can be some of the most rewarding ones a person can take.”

Keep the itinerary short and simple.

Resist the urge to cram a bunch of last-minute adventures or reservations into your itinerary. That goes against the spirit of a spontaneous trip.

“For people who are big planners but are thinking about doing their first spontaneous trip, try to only plan one big activity or place to see a day,” Susag said. “That way you cross something off your list that you are wanting to do, but still allow yourself to leave room for flexibility and unplanned adventures.”

Book accommodations with free cancellation.

“One thing I do even before I have fully decided if I am going to go on a spontaneous trip somewhere is I will book a hotel with free cancellation as soon as I’m even thinking about a trip,” Susag said. “That way I have decent accommodation as a backup, and I can always look for better options after.”

Location is another important factor when picking lodging as well.

“I also try to get my accommodation as central as I can and, I promise, that makes doing a spontaneous and unplanned trip somewhere much easier and more stress-free,” Susag said.

Flexible accommodations will help make spontaneous travel more doable.

Be flexible with your destination.

“For a leisure traveler, price is almost always the deciding factor when booking airfare. However, oftentimes we are stuck by dates or location, and don’t consider being flexible with either, when in fact flexibility is key to finding amazing deals,” Nastro said.

She recommended searching for flight options based on a broader region like Western Europe, rather than a specific country like Spain. You may come across an amazing destination that’s less familiar or find the opportunity to rediscover a place you haven’t visited in years.

Travel search engines and other third-party sites make it easy to spot good deals if you cast a wide net.

“ An ‘Everywhere’ search on Skyscanner for December reveals great value flights from New York for as little as $35 to Nashville, $55 to Miami, $79 to Turks & Caicos, $85 to Chicago, $89 to San Francisco, $170 to Cartagena, $246 to Rome, $266 to Paris for those willing to be a little spontaneous,” Nastro said.

Consider the off-season.

“Try going to places during an ‘off-season,’” Nastro advised. “Not only is airfare significantly less, but during a low-season, all aspects of travel are more affordable such as car rentals and hotels.”

Research the peak and low seasons in destinations you’re considering. For many, it’s right after the winter holidays.

“January and February are the least traveled months of the entire year, yet this is the time when airfare tends to be cheapest, as well as there is an abundance of cheap deals to be found, regardless of warm or cold weather destinations,” Nastro said. “A lot less people are traveling due to just traveling over the winter holidays so for those of us looking to find spontaneous last-minute deals, this might be a great time to consider.”

Be flexible with your dates, as well as your destination.

“Searching by multiple dates and airports will give you the best chance of a bargain,” Lindsay said. “Flight prices are all based on supply and demand. Because some dates are more popular than others, prices will vary. The ‘whole month’ search tool allows you to see cheap flights at a glance and pick the right deal for you.”

Find a spontaneity buddy.

“If you struggle to be spontaneous and you know that you need that extra push to get you out of your comfort zone, enlist the help of your partner, best friend, or parent,” Lindsay recommended. “Get them to plan some fun trips away and agree that they will only tell you where you are going a few hours before you need to set off!”

Then, you can repay the favor by taking on the next surprise trip. The key to making spontaneous travel happen is to find what system works best for you. Channel the Nike slogan and just do it.

As Trifari remarked, “You can make the decision to travel somewhere, ask a buddy to join if you’d like, book the trip and go!”

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Why a Spontaneous Road Trip is Exactly What You Need

spontaneous road trip meaning

Windows down, highway playlist on. There’s a reason pop culture staples like “Route 66” and Jack Kerouac’s On The Road embrace life on the road. There’s nothing like the sense of freedom and adventure that comes from jumping in the car and following the road signs wherever they may take you on a whim. Especially for creatives – a good road trip full of new sites can sometimes be just the thing to wedge you out of a creative funk.

Our busy lives may make that spontaneity and escape seem like something we only think about as we stare out the office window and whisper, “ someday …” But a road trip doesn’t have to take six months of planning and mapping. In fact, it can be just a few hours away. Then suddenly it’s not such a far-off dream anymore: it’s a totally doable weekend escape. Here’s how to have the perfect spontaneous road trip with minimal planning and maximum relaxation.

Phone case

Bring a map (aka your phone)

I know what you’re thinkin’: this was supposed to be a trip to get  away  from it all…including #socialmedia. But let’s be real, even if you want to live life like the Beatniks hitting the road in a Jack Kerouac novel, paper maps are a pain – no matter how nostalgic. Let your phone (ironically) connect you to the place you’re going to disconnect for a little while. And hey, even if you’re throwing caution to the wind and following any highway sign that seems interesting, having a way of finding your way back home is always a good thing.

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Bike bag

No car? No problem

Where you’re going, you don’t need roads…well, highway roads, anyways. Road trips don’t always have to involve a car driving across the country. Take your bike out for a spin. A road trip through a bike path can get you back in touch with nature – not to mention, it’s a solid workout and a great way to clear your head! Pack up some snacks in a drawstring bag  for easy transport or even a  rope handle weekender  if you’re biking somewhere you can camp out.

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Notebook camping picture

Bring your art supplies

Changing up your scenery is KEY for creativity. That’s why a road trip can be the perfect thing for artists and creatives. ‘The everyday’ is a killer of creative brainstorming – you need novel experiences, sites, surroundings to reinvigorate the right brain and keep it inspired. Bring some art supplies with you and try creating a visual journal of your trip, or just drawing what’s around you.

Stock up on notebooks

road trip accessories

Bring the right gear

The best kind of road trip is spontaneous…but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be prepared. In fact, you should DEFINITELY be prepared.  Hitchhiker’s Guide  to the Galaxy  summed it up best:

Here’s a quick mini checklist:

  • Travel mug for your coffee needs
  • Zip pouches for your art supplies
  • Beach towels (see above)
  • Water bottle
  • A bag to put it all in

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Travel mug

Stay caffeinated, stay hydrated 

At the risk of sounding redundant, escaping the everyday for a second doesn’t mean you can escape your survival needs. Bring a filled travel mug to stay hydrated. Especially if you’re going somewhere where you can’t buy a water bottle and that creek water is a  little  too silty for comfort. And pre-stock a travel mug with coffee at the ready to keep you awake for the ride.

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road trip crew

Bring friends

Solo road trips are a great way to hit refresh on your energy and get back in touch with yourself (especially for introverts). But there’s nothin’ like comparing road trip stories – good and bad – with a buncha friends. Gather good people, get in the car, and hit the road.

Where to next? That’s up to you. Road trips are always a good escape from everyday life. But they’re also a way to recharge  for  everyday life. Be present. Be in the moment. Happy travels!

Gear up for your road trip here

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Dad joke aficionado, cartoonist, & contributor for sites like HelloGiggles and The Mary Sue by night. When I'm not writing or drawing, you can find me in my cave of a room hanging out with my boyfriend, Netflix.

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How to Plan a Spontaneous U.S. Road Trip - On the Cheap

No reservations? No problem.

By: Hillary + Matt + Save to a List

spontaneous road trip meaning

Everybody loves the thought of making like Jack Kerouac and hitting the open road – but have you ever tried to do it without a reservation?

Competition for campsites is fierce in many of the more popular spots throughout the U.S. (think National Parks), especially from May to September, when showing up without a reservation is basically the equivalent of heading into the desert with a single jug of water and a dream. Even first-come, first-served campgrounds tend to fill up fast leaving panicked road trippers scurrying for a spot to spend the night.

Don't be that guy.

Below we've included a few tricks that we swear by, whether you're an intrepid traveler who's in it for the long haul or consider yourself more the weekend warrior type. Please keep in mind that many of these tips do not guarantee you'll find a spot. Rather, these are meant to strengthen your chances of finding a campsite on the fly and are by no means a replacement for proper planning.

spontaneous road trip meaning

Arrive as early as possible.

At first-come, first-served campgrounds, campers are typically required to re-reserve or vacate a spot by noontime (though this time can vary from place to place). This means that there's often a lot of turnover in the mornings, typically after campers finish up their breakfast and before they head out for a hike or some sight-seeing.

If you've got a long haul ahead of you and you're planning to arrive earlier in the day, try your hardest to use mid-week and off-season dates to your advantage.

spontaneous road trip meaning

Be ready to settle at any campground.

We get it - most people want to be in the best camp spots with the most space and the grandest views, but when you're taking a spontaneous detour or planning your trip on the fly, sometimes you have to take what you can get. The campground might be farther away than you'd have hoped or it may be primitive (read: no flushing toilets). 

Whatever the case, be flexible with whatever's available and it'll help land a camp site STAT.

spontaneous road trip meaning

Use apps and websites to find places few others have heard about.

One of our favorites is  freecampsites.net . It's easy to use: Just use your smart phone's GPS to find camping near you or plug in specific locations to plan out your route. Sometimes you stumble upon really incredible spots, other times they’re patches of gravel on the side of the road. Either way, they’re free and close to where you want to be.

spontaneous road trip meaning

Consider BLM land to be your best friend.

BLM land, also known as land managed by the Bureau of Land Management, was a major help to us on our  most recent road trip . Not only is this considered the American people's land (meaning we can hike, camp and enjoy it for free), but the camp sites offer some of the most magnificent experiences in the wild.

Here's a handy map  to show you where you can find BLM land. Unfortunately for us East Coasters and all you Mid-westerners out there, there is little to no BLM land in our neck of the woods. Instead, we recommend taking advantage of U.S. Forest Land, which will typically have pull-offs or backroads where you can spend the night discreetly.

spontaneous road trip meaning

If all else fails, pull off on the side of the road.

It may not be quiet and it may not offer the best morning views, but as long as you're safe and not going to catch hypothermia, we call that a win. 

Just remember to plan next time, okay?

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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spontaneous road trip meaning

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Spontaneous Travel: A Detailed Guide to Travel On A Whim

January 23, 2019.

spontaneous travel

Take A Spontaneous Trip This New Year

A common myth: to travel spontaneously means you simply pack a bag, choose a destination, and leave for that locale within a few hours. How whimsical! Or potentially, pretty problematic. It might not be the best idea to abandon all reason simply because you want to do something unplanned. In fact, it’s important to note the difference between planning and research when traveling spontaneously! You can forgo planning, but successful execution of a spontaneous trip occurs when you do thorough research. It is imperative to understand certain requirements like visas, driving permits, and vaccinations before you even enter a country. That is when you can feel confident deviating from any plans when the opportunity presents itself. And, when done properly, the unplanned experiences you have on that trip will probably be the highlight of your entire adventure! That is why I partnered with HotelTonight — a mobile app and website that lets you book last-minute deals on accommodations — to share exactly how to create those elevated experiences that come from spontaneous travel.   

spontaneous road trip meaning

Photo by @journeywithjorge

If you want to take more spontaneous trips this 2019, you don’t have to start with a three-month solo adventure somewhere international. Start with a local day trip and learn the basics about navigation, safety, booking, etc. Choose a destination that is less than an hour and a half away from your hometown, and read up on the best local attractions and restaurants in that city either on the tourism board website, a travel blog, or online publications like Timeout or Thrillist. From there, practice your skills by booking a domestic overnight or weekend trip. After taking a few of these shorter trips this year, I can almost guarantee that by the end of 2019, you will be booking a two-week European jaunt to drink mulled wine and eat chestnuts at eight different Christmas markets across the continent.

Read More: Spontaneous Summer: Europe Trip

spontaneous road trip meaning

Do Research Prior to Your Spontaneous Trip

How much research actually goes in to traveling spontaneously? Well, that is dependent on when and where you are going. The first thing to do is ask the following questions:

  • What time of year are you visiting? Is it peak season?
  • Are there any special events happening around the time of my visit that might make booking more difficult?

spontaneous road trip meaning

If you answered yes to any of those questions , then you might want to consider planning that part of your trip in advance. I spent three weeks island hopping in Greece this past summer. I had initially thought it would be fun to see “where the wind took me,” which became a little too literal when I missed my first flight ever due to high winds. However, after looking at ferry timetables and accommodation availability, I quickly realized that I could not leave this part of the trip up to chance. There were such limited options in my budget on many of the islands, and the ferries ran too sporadically for me to not plan ahead during August. The same advice holds true if you are visiting a destination during a major festival like Mardi Gras in New Orleans, St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin, or Oktoberfest in Munich because everything will book up early.

  • Famous Festivals in Europe: Best Annual Cultural & Music Festivals
  • St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin, Ireland: A Complete Guide
  • 10 Tips to Survive Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany

If you answered “no,” to the above questions, then traveling spontaneously to that destination might just be the best decision you have ever made. For your first international trip, I recommend visiting a large city like Barcelona, Rome, Lisbon, or Budapest during their shoulder season — the period between high and low seasons. There will be plenty of options for places to stay, the weather should be mild, and the cities not overcrowded with tourists.

spontaneous road trip meaning

Book Flights On A Whim

Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Hopper have features where you can put in your starting destination under “Departures” and then choose from an entire continent or region for “Arrivals.” This allows you to quickly see the best flight deals from a variety of cities at a glance, rather than having to tediously check flights for each potential city. I typically use Google Flights as a starting point, as I believe the site gives a very clear overview of potential options, and then verify that I found the best deal by checking the other aforementioned sites.

Tip #1: La st-minute airfare is more costly than when booked in advance. To combat this price discrepancy, choose a destination where your native currency is strong. Hungary, for example, uses the Forint. I recently spent a month in Budapest and paid an average of 5 US dollars for all meals. Transportation cost me $35 for the entire month; I could ride the metro, buses, and trams an unlimited amount. This way you have a bit more of a cushion if flight and accommodation prices are high.

spontaneous road trip meaning

Find The Perfect Accommodation

After booking that last-minute flight, you’re probably going to need a place to stay. I end up in all types of accommodations when I travel because I strongly believe that each serves its own purpose. When I travel solo on a spontaneous trip, I typically stay in hostels so that I have the opportunity to meet people. But, after a number of days in a hostel, I have other needs which include pampering, a bathtub, and a great night’s sleep in a cozy b ed in a hotel.

spontaneous road trip meaning

You would think that traveling solo at the last-minute while sticking to an affordable price point would be a recipe for disaster; but, HotelTonight provides great deals and multiple property options, affording you the opportunity to be choosy. HotelTonight breaks down the hotels into categories t o clearly identify   the service level and overall vibe of the property. If I am on my own, I will usually pick a property from the “Solid” category and if I am traveling with a partner, “Hip” or “Charming” are my go-tos. And my favorite feature — because swiping is so satisfying — is the Daily Drop. Each day, you have the opportunity to swipe right on a mystery property and the rate will be at least 30% lower than the rest of HotelTonig ht’s already low rates. T he catch? You only have 15 minutes to book it!  

spontaneous road trip meaning

HotelTonight has helped me numerous times when I needed to book a same-day hotel. There were many a Sunday at Coachella (you think I would have learned my lesson the first time) when I did not want to drive home late at night, but couldn’t afford to spend a fortune. Picture th is: it is Sunday night, 8:30 PM, with the headliner starting in 15 minutes. I go on the app to book a room for the evening and I actually find reasonable rates. I now not only get an excuse to stop by Tommy Bahama for lunch on M onday for the best salad on the planet, but I also drive home refreshed after a glorious night of deep sleep.

Tip #2: HotelTonight is perfect if you need an affordable same-day place to stay, but you can also book accommodations on HotelTonight up to 100 days in advance, for up to two weeks at a time.

Tip #3 : It is import ant to know in advance how to get from the airport to your accommodation. Sure, nowadays most airports have WiFI, but if you don’t have an international plan or a wifi device with you, it is best to rely on printed directions as opposed to frantically asking the information desk at an airport where there could very well be a language barrier.

spontaneous road trip meaning

Choose Excursions Without a Plan in Place

While you can typically show up at a tourist attraction same-day with no issue, there are the “Alhambras,” “Warner Bros. Studio Harry Potter Tours,” and “Uffizis” of the world, that need to be booked a month or so in advance. If you do travel spontaneously and find that these attractions are sold out, look into alternatives. Spending a bit more money on a guided tour or visiting at an off-beat time of day are potential workarounds to this problem. There are typically ways to visit even the most popular attraction in a city, you just have to work a little harder to find a solution.

Tip #4: Even if your trip has been organized in advance, you can still be open to spontaneous activities during your travels! I recently returned from a three-month trip to several destinations in Europe. One of the standout moments was canoeing up the Danube river in Budapest. While my trip to Hungary had been planned for months, canoeing hadn’t even been on my radar as a possible excursion. But, prior to arriving, I had joined Facebook groups like Girls Gone International Budapest and International Meeting Point Budapest. Both of those groups host local events every week, so I went to an event on my second night there.

spontaneous road trip meaning

I met a Hungarian at that event who was looking to launch a canoe tour company. I offered to take some photos for him; and, two days later, three of us (always go in a group to be safe) went canoeing up the Danube to a nearby town called Szentendre. By the end of my time in Budapest, I was celebrating a neighborhood bookstore’s anniversary and attending an exhibition for a local artist, all because of the connections I made on that second night!

The best travel experiences are not found on an itinerary. It’s the people that you meet that make a trip memorable and that simply cannot be scheduled into a 10:30 AM breakfast. Just like with solo travel, when you travel spontaneously, you will have the highest highs and the lowest lows. It’s the times when you get ill on a ferry in Greece and end up in York, England, 10 hours later with a new loving family that will stick with you forever. I will get to writing about that soon! So, I encourage you to go outside of your comfort zone this year, even if that means starting with a simple day excursion and building up to a well-researched spontaneous trip. It will not only be one of the most exciting adventures you have ever taken, but it will ultimately be life-changing.  

 Where would you like to travel spontaneously this 2019? Share below!

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How To Embrace Spontaneous Travel

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One of the scariest yet most liberating ways to travel is traveling spontaneously. This kind of traveling is the opposite of order and repetition. It involves saying ‘yes’ to new things and making tweaks to your itinerary en-route. It certainly is worth exploring, but the question on your mind is probably ‘how to embrace spontaneous travel?’ Well, we’ll fill you in on that and share ways you can embrace the spirit of spontaneity as you travel – 

The ABC’s Of How To Embrace Spontaneous Travel

Be ready to step out of your comfort zone.

While embracing spontaneous travel, one thing’s certain, there will always be plenty of moments that demand you to garner the courage to do things you’ve not done before. It’s about trying new things when traveling that you always regret not doing. For instance, freely saying ‘YES’ to renting that two-wheeler which you know you feel like doing and exploring a town on your own. 

It’s completely alright to give in to things like this that push you out of your comfort zone when traveling. This is something that the spontaneous style of travel calls for. Also, moments like going on an organized trek even if you don’t know anybody on it can be intimidating at first. It could also be awkward to trek with people you’ve not met before but you’ll eventually mingle and it won’t seem that bad. How crazy it is to embrace spontaneous travel, right? But this kind of travel will open your eyes to the fact that outside your comfort zone, there’s plenty of adventure that’s worth giving a shot.

Don’t Wait For Your Group

When you travel spontaneously, it’s best not to wait around for your group of friends to join you. It would take a miracle for all your friends to quickly get in sync for a holiday on the same dates you’d like . Plus, more importantly, spontaneous travel involves little to no pre-planning and preparation apart from the basics . Yes, that’s just how it is to embrace spontaneous travel. So instead of waiting, you better start packing your bags and make that trip when you feel the urge to do it. After all, you deserve to use up your annual leaves, and don’t need a group to postpone it from happening.

There are also several good upsides to traveling solo , and who knows, your spontaneous trip may just be the best ever.

Spontaneous travel

Don’t Keep A Strict Itinerary

Traveling on a whim is about not having a strict itinerary to follow. It’s more about planning your excursions in a way that there’s enough flexibility to adjust things around. For example, you may want to go river rafting in Rishikesh but then you find out that you could also go cliff jumping. If you like the latter more, you should be ready to switch plans and ditch what you no longer want to do. 

You can make a rough skeleton of things you would like to do based on the destination you’re going to but always make room for spontaneous adventures. If you see an art workshop, yoga or cooking class happening in a city you’re exploring, be prepared to join if you like it without worrying too much about the itinerary .

Use Apps & Memberships

It is super important to download a few apps that will make it easier for you to have a successful spontaneous trip. Use an app to book accommodation, flights, and even to find well-rated restaurants near you. When you use apps, you can snag the best running offer and save on costs. You can also do the same thing with travel memberships!

At goSTOPS, we’ve launched a Dream.Invest.Travel Membership starting at just INR 500 for travelers who pick goSTOPS to avail discounts on meals, stay, and much more. It’s our way of giving you benefits as you venture into traveling more often. It’s best to always take advantage of any offers and loyalty programs when traveling spontaneously. It ensures you’re not burning a hole in your pocket while you crave travel. 

Embrace traveling spontaneously

Approach That 3-Day Weekend

You’ll probably know that there’s a 3-day weekend coming up in advance so use it to go on a short spontaneous adventure. Take it as life’s sign of telling you to have some fun by driving to a getaway nearby. You might not always get an opportunity to go traveling at the spur of the moment with a 9 to 5, that’s when such weekends still let you embrace traveling.

Unplug from work emails and go where you feel like a free bird . It could be to check out a restaurant, go wine-tasting or spend some time in the midst of mountains – pick what you feel like doing.

Stop Waiting For The Perfect Time

Traveling spontaneously is all about not putting off travel plans in hopes of a perfect time. There could be tons of places you wish to see on your bucket list and that list will only get longer if you don’t start checking off destinations from them . If the weather prevents you from traveling, seek out alternative ways to still take that trip. Most people think that monsoons ruin travel plans but if you think about it, the scenery of a place turns luscious and beautiful in the monsoons.

If a road to your dream destination is blocked, look for alternative places to see instead of bumming yourself out about the unfortunate timing. It’s possible that you’d find a hidden waterfall or unexplored farm when you focus less on timing being perfect.  So even if it isn’t the perfect time, add a twist to your travel plans.

Embrace Randomness

How to embrace spontaneous travel? The short answer – Embrace Randomness. Flip a coin or play a game of stone, paper, scissors to make decisions when you travel. You can also try throwing a dart on the number of options that lie in front of you. Embracing making random choices is liberating and gives you a break from planning things down to the tee.  

The upside to randomness is that you don’t constantly worry about the things that lie ahead. There’s no logic to why you’d want to go river rafting, bungee jumping, or skiing but you do it to have fun. So go ahead and be random, pick something out on the menu you’d never typically have, or sign up for a comedy show in a new city you’re visiting. In reality, it is slightly frightening but most times it’s never as bad as it’s made out to be.

Spontaneous trips

Go Ahead And Seize The Moment

Traveling spontaneously can be scary but you’ll be surprised at the fun you have by going out and doing something new. That does not mean making calculated plans is the enemy. It’s good to have a balance of both. With impulsive decisions, you turn up the fun a notch and with planned travel, you run into fewer risky situations. To us, hostels are the best place to get both. goSTOPS hostel common areas are a great place to meet fellow travelers that inspire you to come along to try new things. When you don’t feel like taking the random adventurous path, you can retreat to your room or go your own way. The choice is yours.

How Do You Travel Spontaneously?

You can travel spontaneously if you don’t over-plan your itinerary. The idea of this kind of traveling is to increase the chances of doing something you’ve never done before. Challenge yourself to check out restaurants, sites or adventure experiences that you’d generally never pick to travel spontaneously. 

What Is An Impromptu Trip?

An impromptu trip is when you decide to take a trip out of the blue with no prior planning for it. It involves booking accommodation or your flights at the last moment and making decisions at the spur of the moment as the trip unfolds.

What Does A Spontaneous Trip Mean?

A spontaneous trip is about acting based on impulse and not putting too much thought into following a strict trip plan.

What Should I Pack For A Spontaneous Trip?

After you embrace a spontaneous trip, make sure you’re packing just the essentials that you can’t do without. Pack items like your identity card, enough cash, charger, toiletries, and a few comfortable outfits depending on how long you’re going.

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5 Steps for Planning the Unplanned Trip

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5 Steps for Planning the Unplanned Trip

“I t is good to have an end to journey toward; but it is the journey that matters, in the end.” ―Ernest Hemingway

We’ve all heard it, the famous quote splattered across the internet on travel blogs and inspirational imagery. It instills a sense of freedom, exploration, and bliss; of losing oneself in the moment. I heard it, I felt it, and five months ago, with these words ringing in my head, I stepped out into the world without a plan, ready for adventure.

Sure, I had an end to journey toward , but it was the journey I was seeking—and I decided that no plan was the best plan. My dad was a pilot and agenda is his middle name. Growing up, my family trips were a blur of checking things off “the list” and the frantic flurry of jolted experiences left me exhausted and depleted by travel. A 5-month unplanned trip seemed to be the perfect anecdote to an over-planned past. My first step was a one-way ticket to Bangkok. Five months ago, that ticket was all I had. Now, after journeying throughout Thailand, The Philippines, Bali, California, and Mexico, I know that the unplanned definitely needs to be planned.

What I experienced along the way were golden moments paired with missed opportunities. I had taken Hemingway’s words to heart but overshot the meaning. While I wasn’t bogged down by a stressful itinerary, trying to fit it all in, I hadn’t done my homework and wasn’t aware of the unique and diverse offerings the regions I passed through had to offer. I didn’t know about local traditions or festivities, the accessibility of neighboring countries, or the main attractions and dishes that I should seek out—I was missing the things that made these places destinations in the first place.

So, how do you do it? How do you take a trip (of any length) without tying yourself to an itinerary so thick that you lose sight of where you are? The truth is, an unplanned trip—a trip that is flexible and fluid, leaving space for spontaneity and genuine interaction—takes some planning.

1. Do Your Research

Where are you going? Read about it. Wikitravel is a great place to start and will help you build a foundational knowledge of the most basic and important travel information. Continue your research with area-specific travel guides and blogs that provide a local’s insight. The tips and tricks you learn before you go may very well be game changers on the ground.

2. Pack Light

Don’t lose out because of “stuff.” The best decision I made for my trip was to leave home with a single backpack, half full. Sounds crazy and intimidating doesn’t it? But the simplicity and light weight allowed for ultimate travel ease. Planes, trains, buses, bed to bed—I was quick to my feet and not weighed down by excess material.

How often do you go on a trip and arrive home with clean clothes still folded in the corners of your suitcase? A half-full backpack also allows room for must-haves along the way—those things that go beyond your standard souvenir, that will be adorning your walls and floors as you grow old.

3. Don’t Book Accommodations for Your Whole Stay

Staying in one place can prove to be rather limiting. Choose a destination for arrival and book for only a night or two, then use that time to get a feel for where you are. If you like it, stay. Or if you find there is a different part of town you prefer, find a place there for a night or two. And then the next, and the next. When you find a place worth staying longer, you’ll know.

4. Make Friends with Locals

Baristas, bartenders, waitstaff, store owners, cab drivers—engage! The more open you are to the people and experience, the more open they are likely to be with you. When you start with a smile and a question, you will find that conversation easily follows.

5. Ask a Lot of Questions

Don’t be shy. As a traveler in a new destination, there is no limit to the amount of questions you can ask in one day. Where am I? Where is this? Who are you? Where are you? Ask locals what they prefer. What do you think? Where do you hang out? Where would you stay? Where do you eat? What do you eat? The answers you receive will be better than any guide book could possibly curate.

Nicole Lindstrom , along with Sasha Juliard , are the modern globetrotters behind GLDMNE .

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LuxuryTravelDiva

What Does Spontaneous Road Trip Mean?

By Anna Duncan

Have you ever felt the urge to just pack your bags, hit the road and embark on a journey without any planned itinerary? That’s what a spontaneous road trip is all about! It’s an adventure that involves traveling to a destination without any prior planning or preparation.

What is a Spontaneous Road Trip?

A spontaneous road trip is an impromptu journey that involves getting into the car and driving off without any pre-planned route, destination or timeline. It often involves exploring new places, trying out different cuisines, experiencing local culture and meeting new people along the way.

Why do People Go on Spontaneous Road Trips?

People go on spontaneous road trips for various reasons. Some may want to escape from their daily routine and experience something new. Others may seek adventure and excitement, while some want to spend quality time with family and friends.

Benefits of Spontaneous Road Trips

There are many benefits of going on a spontaneous road trip. Firstly, it allows you to break away from your routine and experience something new.

It can also be a great way to explore new places and learn about different cultures. Moreover, it provides an opportunity to bond with family and friends while creating lasting memories.

Tips for Planning a Spontaneous Road Trip

While there are no set rules for planning a spontaneous road trip, here are some tips that can help make your journey smoother:

  • Check your car’s condition before hitting the road.
  • Pack light but make sure you have essentials like water, snacks, first aid kit etc.
  • Be open-minded and flexible with your plans.
  • Avoid driving at night in unfamiliar areas.
  • Use maps or GPS to navigate through unfamiliar territory.

9 Related Question Answers Found

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How to Travel Spontaneously

Last Updated: February 14, 2023 References

This article was co-authored by Carmela Resuma, MPP . Carmela is the Executive Director of FLYTE, a non-profit organization headquartered in Georgetown, Texas that empowers students living in underserved communities through transformative travel experiences. Carmela has a Masters in Public Policy Analysis from New York University and is passionate about youth empowerment, social impact, and traveling. This article has been viewed 73,241 times.

Traveling can be a pleasant, carefree experience, but the large amounts of planning and preparation which usually precede actually traveling can make the process seem like more trouble than it’s worth. If you’d like to travel without putting in so much work beforehand, try to travel more spontaneously. Making spontaneous travel plans can open doors to new experiences that you wouldn’t have taken part in otherwise. However, you’ll need to leave yourself open to occasional misadventures, getting lost or wandering, and relying on local advice and assistance.

Arriving in Your Destination

Step 1 Decide where you’d like to travel.

  • For example, if you’re interested in touring the American northwest, you could spend a full week in a large city like Seattle, or you could divide your time between several cities, like Seattle, Tacoma, and Portland.
  • If you’re traveling abroad, you may need to obtain a travel visa for the country you’re visiting. These can take some time to obtain. Contact the State Department of the country you’re planning to visit to find out if you need a travel visa and how to apply for this document.

Step 2 Decide if you’re traveling alone or with others.

  • Whether you’re traveling with a group or alone, avoid wearing flashy jewelry or clothing, and each member of your party should carry more than one form of official identification (e.g. a passport and a driver’s license).

Step 3 Choose lodging in a central location.

  • If you were to stay on the outskirts of a city, in a rural area, or in a small town, for example, it would be much harder to find locations to spontaneously travel to and visit.

Step 4 Travel light.

  • Having only a single bag will enable you to move quickly from one city or region to another, and you’ll be able to use any type of transportation that you please: plane, train, renting a car or Uber, hitchhiking, bicycle, or just walking.

Limiting Planning on the Ground

Step 1 Plan only one event per day.

  • For example, plan on one significant cultural experience per day: if you’re in Rome, you may wish to visit the Colosseum; if you’re in Paris, plan a trip to the Louvre.
  • After that, do something spontaneous that appeals to you: sit in a café and watch people passing by, visit a local market, wander into a nearby museum, or take a hike or rafting trip through nature.

Step 2 Ask a local for their advice.

  • “I’m spending a few days here without a travel itinerary. What are some places you’d recommend I visit, other than big tourist attractions?”
  • If you’re open to any type of spontaneous experience in the region you’re traveling, ask locals about their favorite outdoor activity (weather permitting): you’ll likely receive recommendations for hiking location, but perhaps also fishing, swimming, bird-watching, or mountain biking.

Step 3 Avoid relying on review sites.

  • Avoiding review sites will leave you open to enjoyable surprises as you use your own intuition and the advice of locals to find interesting travel destinations.
  • Sometimes tourist destinations plant reviews in order to drum up business. A high rating may not be entirely legitimate.
  • Go to touristy sites to scout out more hidden local treasures. One benefit of going to a "tourist trap" is that locals (bartenders, tour guides, waiters, hotel staff, shopkeepers, cab drivers, etc.) expect outsiders--and these people are often great informers to local favorite places.

Step 4 Look for last-minute deals.

  • You can also look for last-minute bookings at hotels and through travel apps like Priceline, HotelTonight, Blink (for travel in Europe), and Booking Now. [5] X Research source

Making Spontaneous Travel Decisions

Step 1 Be open to the unexpected and to changing plans.

  • For example, if a restaurant isn’t enjoyable, leave and wander through a food-heavy district of town until you find a better place to dine. If you can’t spend the day hiking, rent a car and drive through the countryside instead.
  • One of the major benefits of spontaneous traveling is that unexpected changes of plans become part of the norm. Leave yourself open to this, and enjoy where the trip takes you.
  • Being open and flexible also allows for optimizing vacation time. A rigid schedule may not allow for spending less time at places that are not of high interest, and more time at another.

Step 2 Enjoy wandering or getting lost.

  • If you do end up seriously lost, don’t panic. Avoid areas that seem unsafe or feel uncomfortable, and use your phone or map to find your way back to your hotel or hostel. If you’re lost in a town or city, you can call a cab (or find someone to call a cab for you), or book an Uber on your phone.
  • It’s important to consider safety issues when wandering through a foreign city or region. If a part of a city makes you feel uncomfortable, trust your instinct and leave. Always have an idea of how far from your hotel or hostel you are by car, and avoid getting lost in areas without a phone or internet signal.

Step 3 Take advantage of local events and festivals.

  • These local events could include large concerts or musical festivals, cultural holidays (e.g. Day of the Dead), religious holidays, food festivals, sporting events, or any other number of local events.
  • On the other hand, large holidays, festivals, or holiday weekends may increase your travel costs or increase congestion on highways. An increase in a city’s population—say, due to a large ongoing music festival—will also make hotel and hostel rooms both more scarce and more expensive. [9] X Research source

Step 4 Ask about group travel deals.

  • If you plan ahead before you travel, you can take advantage of a group hotel discount through a site like HotelPlanner or even directly through a hotel website itself.

Expert Q&A

Carmela Resuma, MPP

  • If you’re traveling into a region that you’re unfamiliar with, check out the weather ahead of time. You don’t want to arrive unprepared in an unfamiliar region in the middle of a freezing winter or a mid-summer heat wave. [10] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

spontaneous road trip meaning

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Disappear Completely

  • ↑ http://trekhard.com/blog/2012/08/24/13-tips-spontaneous-travel
  • ↑ http://www.independenttraveler.com/travel-tips/specialty-travel/single-travel-tips-for-going-solo
  • ↑ http://www.independenttraveler.com/travel-tips/travelers-ed/12-ways-to-be-more-spontaneous-when-you-travel
  • ↑ http://mashable.com/2014/04/16/spontaneous-travel/#uymkjD1TsGqw
  • ↑ http://www.travelandleisure.com/blogs/trip-doctor-how-to-get-last-minute-hotel-deals
  • ↑ http://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/city-vacations/how-to-take-spontaneous-vacation

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How to Take a Spontaneous Road Trip

Posted on July 11, 2023

Car Rental - New Jersey - Road Trip - Things to Do - Tips

Do you enjoy traveling but hate doing all the planning necessary for a successful trip? Our team at Value Van & Car Rental completely understands. Planning and researching can be time-consuming and difficult; by the time you’re ready to hit the road, you’re already tired! This summer, why not try something a little different? We have put together a few tips so you can take a spontaneous road trip and skip the tedious planning. Read on to learn more!

How to Take a Spontaneous Road Trip

Make the Absolutely Necessary Plans

Okay, so it’s impossible not to make any plans when taking a road trip. However, it is possible to simplify plans and only make the absolutely necessary ones. These decisions typically include how long you plan to travel, which direction to drive, and what you’ll pack for your trip. Because it’s summer, you can typically rely on the weather to be pretty good wherever you end up, and, therefore, packing shouldn’t be a problem. We love the idea of picking a direction instead of a destination so you can see where the day takes you.

Don’t Be Afraid to Explore

Now when you hit the road, don’t be afraid to make stops and look for interesting things along the way. If you see a fun billboard advertising something your family would enjoy, check it out, even if it means taking a detour! Take your time, and don’t feel rushed; a spontaneous road trip allows you to experience things you would’ve otherwise just zoomed on past. When you’re hungry, look for a hip restaurant to try. Or buy food for a picnic at a farmer’s market. Have fun with it, and let the wind carry you.

Stop When You Get Tired

Finally, perhaps the best part of a spontaneous road trip is that you can stop when you get tired. Instead of trying to push through to make it to a certain destination for the night, you can find an open hotel and stop when you’re tired of driving for the day. Not only will you feel more rested and not so burnt out on driving, but you may also be able to find some good last-minute deals on hotel rooms this way.

If you’re ready to break the mold from traditional family vacations, try a spontaneous road trip in a rental car from Value Van & Car Rental. Contact us today in New Jersey at (908) 851-9595 to book a reservation .

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A Guide to Taking a Spontaneous Trip

A spontaneous trip is the perfect way to inject a little adventure into your everyday life. All you need to do is pick a destination, and then plan from there. You can live the high life or travel on a tight budget, so long as the trip is tailored to you. If you want to enjoy a little carefree travel in 2019 and create memories you are unlikely to ever forget, read the following advice on how to plan a spontaneous trip right at home, or abroad to exotic destinations:

Choose a Destination

Write a list of bucket list destinations . The one that stands out the most to you is where you should travel.

However, you will need to consider:

  • A country’s visa requirements (or you could be refused entry)
  • Travel insurance
  • Currency options (Find the best conversion rate beforehand)

Organize a Flight

Once you know where you want to go, the next step is to book a flight to your destination.

If, however, you want to get there as soon as possible and avoid long wait times, you could always book a private charter jet. If you have your sights set firmly on New York City to catch a Broadway show or explore its many landmarks, for example, you should visit: https://www.stratosjets.com/jet-charter-flights/new-york-city/

Book a Hotel

Once you have your flight booked it’s time to look for accommodation. Do this as soon as possible to avoid being turned away at reception. Depending on where you go, there could be a wide variety of options available, or only one – so booking in advance is important to avoid disappointment. If possible, try to book a hotel in a central location as well, so you’ll be a stone’s throw away from a city’s best restaurants, bars, and attractions.

Avoid Creating an Itinerary

If you want to truly enjoy a spontaneous adventure, you should avoid creating a strict itinerary or sticking your head inside a travel guide book. Instead, step out of your luxury hotel and explore a destination on foot, which could lead to you stumbling across a world-famous attraction or a hidden gem. This will allow you to get to know a city on a deeper level, as you won’t be restricted by reviews or recommendations.

Talk to Locals

Not knowing what to do or where to go will encourage you to talk to locals who could help point you in the right direction when choosing a bar, restaurant, or even a grocery store.

After all, they will know the best places to eat, drink and shop, so you can explore a city like a local. Talking to locals will also help you feel more connected to a destination, and you could even make a few friends along the way.

While a spontaneous trip does require a little bit of planning, if you are willing to ditch restricting itineraries, connect with locals, and maintain an open mind when exploring a city, it’s likely you’ll experience an adventure you’ll never forget.

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15 Tips on How To Plan Your Memorable Spontaneous Trip

memorable-spontaneous-trip

Are you tired of the same old routine and craving some excitement in your life? It’s time to leave your routine and go on unexpected trips that will make you remember them forever. Traveling on the spur of the moment can be one of the most exciting and satisfying things you can do because it forces you out of your comfort zone and into the unknown.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide you with 15 valuable tips on planning your spontaneous travel, ensuring that your journey is filled with thrilling experiences, whether alone or with friends. So, let’s dive into spontaneous travel and discover the secrets to making your next adventure extraordinary .

1. Embrace Spontaneity – A Mindset for All

The essence of a spontaneous trip begins with embracing the unexpected. Let yourself be open to new things, whether traveling alone or with a group. The beauty of surprise is that it can’t be planned for.

2. Flexibility Is Your Best Friend

When planning a spontaneous trip, flexibility is the key to success. Avoid rigid schedules and detailed itineraries. Instead, sketch a rough outline of places you’d like to explore and be prepared to adapt as the journey unfolds.

3. Packing Essentials – Less Is More

Whether you’re traveling alone or with companions, packing efficiently is crucial. Focus on clothes that can be worn with many different things. Don’t forget essential documents like your passport, ID, and travel insurance.

4. Harness the Power of Travel Apps

Utilize travel apps to your advantage. Apps like Skyscanner, Kayak, and Airbnb can help you find last-minute deals on flights, accommodations, and activities, making spontaneous travel more affordable for solo adventurers and groups.

5. Stay Informed & Safe

Stay updated on travel advisories, weather conditions, and local news for your destination. Whether solo or with a group, knowledge is your best ally regarding safety on the road.

6. Establish a Budget

While spontaneity is vital, responsible planning is equally important. Determine your budget for the trip, whether you’re going solo or as part of a group, and adhere to it as closely as possible.

7. Explore Nearby Gems

Spontaneous trips don’t always require long journeys. Whether you’re traveling alone or with a group, you might want to check out nearby towns, cities, or nature sights that you haven’t seen before. You may discover hidden treasures just a short distance away.

8. Travel Light on Gadgets

Whether traveling alone or with a group, try to limit the number of things you bring. Focus on capturing moments with your smartphone or a compact camera rather than hauling around heavy equipment.

9. Connect with Locals for Solo or Group Travel

Engaging with locals is one of the best parts of traveling on the fly. Whether solo or in a group, initiate conversations, savor local cuisine, and learn a few basic phrases in the local language to forge deeper connections.

10. Safety Is Paramount

While spontaneity is thrilling, safety should always be a top priority for solo travelers and groups alike. Share your travel plans with someone you trust, keep your phone charged, and have emergency contact information for the region you’re visiting.

11. Last-Minute Accommodations

Avoid booking accommodations too far in advance. Solo travelers and groups can save money and remain adaptable by searching for last-minute deals on hotels, hostels, or vacation rentals.

12. Explore Diverse Transportation Options

Consider various modes of transportation when doing a spontaneous vacation, whether traveling solo or with friends . Trains, buses, and even hitchhiking (if it’s safe and culturally acceptable) can be adventurous ways to get around.

13. Document Your Journey

Capture your spontaneous trip with a travel journal or blog. Share your experiences, thoughts, and photos to create lasting memories. Inspire other visitors to be spontaneous, whether on their own or with a group.

14. Embrace the Unknown

Spontaneous travel often leads to unexpected discoveries . Solo travelers and groups should be willing to deviate from their original plans and explore off-the-beaten-path attractions and experiences.

15. Reflect & Learn Together

After your spontaneous trip, whether you embarked on it solo or with a group, take time to reflect on your experiences. What did you learn, and how can you make your next spontaneous trip better? Share insights and grow together.

Traveling Solo or With a Group – More Tips for Spontaneous Vacation

Spontaneous trips are like a fun playground where everyone can join in, whether you want to explore all by yourself or with friends. When you go on a solo adventure, it’s like having your own magical map – you get to decide where to go and what to do on your own. But, if you like being with friends, group trips are like a big colorful painting, where everyone adds their own special colors and stories.

In a group, you make decisions, face challenges, and share lots of laughs. So, whether you pick the solo path or the group journey, spontaneous trips promise exciting moments, new friends, and memories that will make you smile. Here are some additional considerations to keep in mind:

For Solo Travelers

  • Solo travelers have more autonomy when making decisions. Embrace this freedom but remain vigilant about safety.
  • Connecting with locals may be easier for solo travelers, as locals are often more inclined to approach individuals rather than larger groups.

For Group Travelers

  • Group dynamics can be both rewarding and challenging. Ensure that everyone in the group is on board with the spontaneous nature of the trip and willing to adapt.
  • When booking accommodations and transportation, consider the preferences and needs of the entire group.

Enjoy Your Spontaneous Trips Now!

Because of this, being spontaneous is the key to having great travel experiences, whether you go on a trip by yourself or with a group of friends. When you hear that, your inner explorer starts to yearn for adventure. You want to find new places and, maybe even more deeply, parts of yourself that you didn’t know existed. These 15 helpful tips for planning last-minute trips will be your guide on this exciting journey, making sure that every moment is filled with the joy of the unknown.

As you pack your bags and get ready to leave, welcome the world with open arms, whether you want to go it alone or with other people. Let chance lead you as you search for memories that will last a lifetime. Know that every step you take and every unexpected turn will add to the story of your life. Let’s look forward to the exciting journeys, the gifts we’ll find, and the growth that comes from being open to the unknown. Have a great trip!

Diane Silva

Diane is a travel enthusiast, content creator, and master storyteller, capturing her adventures through captivating blogs and engaging vlogs. With a passion for the great outdoors and a love for literature, she brings a unique perspective to the travel world. Whether she's exploring hidden gems or discussing the latest trends, Diane is your go-to source for all things travel and beyond.

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How to go on a spontaneous road trip alone

Do you ever wonder how to go on a spontaneous road trip alone? Well, the secret is you plan it. WHAT?!?! The last thing that comes to mind when you envision a spontaneous solo road trip is planning . 

When you think spontaneous , you think of getting in the car, blasting the music, and just seeing where the road takes you. This sounds great in theory, and you definitely can do that, though it may not result in the best solo adventure.

Do I really need to plan how to go on a spontaneous road trip alone?

Hear me out and just imagine . .  it’s a couple of hours later and you realize you’re hungry, you have no clothes packed, your phone is running low on battery – because you didn’t bring your charger with you – and you have no idea where you are or where you’re staying for the night. 

Sure, you can figure it out on the fly, but why deal with the stress? Your time and energy can be put to much better use. You can spend that time enjoying the experience and living in the moment, instead of having to plan your next move.  With just a little bit of planning, you will have the spontaneous road trip of your dreams. 

Need more convincing on why you need to experience a solo road trip, check out my top reasons why you need this life-changing experience here.

Looking for something specific? Head over to it!

But wait, aren’t solo road trips dangerous and boring?

Some of the main protests/concerns against solo road trips that you will hear time and time again are “ Is it really safe to travel alone, especially as a woman? ” Or “ Isn’t traveling alone boring? ” And “ There is no difference between traveling alone or with others. The more the merrier! “

These are definitely valid concerns. Safety is always important , especially if you are a solo female traveler, but there are still ways to travel safely and have the road trip of your dreams. 

What about getting bored? Well, chances are you are a lot more exciting than you think you are. You just haven’t had the chance to spend that time getting to know yourself.

Lastly, traveling alone really is a unique adventure that you just can’t get when you are with others. None of these concerns should stop you from this truly amazing and special experience that only a spontaneous solo road trip can provide. 

How to go on a spontaneous road trip alone

How to Go On a Roadtrip By Yourself

Knowing about these concerns ahead of time will help you make a plan to combat them. Now, this may seem like too much and like it goes against the very nature and purpose of a spontaneous road trip, but it really doesn’t. Just because you plan some parts of your trip doesn’t mean you aren’t going to have exciting and spontaneous moments. 

With that said, it is also important to be flexible with your plan . For example, you may decide to stay a few extra days to explore different Miami, Florida parks you just found out about. Or you may decide to add a whole new destination to your trip. Being prepared but flexible will help to alleviate a lot of stress and anxiety.

Have a general idea of steps but keep it flexible enough for adventures.

Funnily enough, I just spent some time exploring the different parks that Miami, Florida has to offer. Read about my experience here.

Road Trip Itinerary Must-Haves

Having a road trip itinerary is just a loose plan to help ensure you have all your bases covered. The main things that you really want to have planned out, or at least have a vague idea of, are what cities you want to visit and what major sights you want to see. Knowing this information will help you know what you need to pack.

So, for example, if you are planning a cross-country road trip, then you know you will need to pack a variety of different weather-appropriate clothes depending on the time of year. This is especially true if you are traveling within the USA because the weather can vary significantly from state to state. 

Another reason it is important to know vaguely where you plan to visit is so that you can make some loose plans for where you want to stay at night. This could be a hotel, a campsite, an Airbnb, or even on a friend’s couch if you know you’re going to be passing through their city. Knowing this info will help with budgeting and making a casual timeline and route that you want to follow.

Also, knowing a general idea of what locations you want to visit can make it easier to plan for other things you may want to explore nearby. This could mean checking out the local cuisine or signing up for a day tour. Overall, a loose road trip itinerary will ensure you have an amazing solo trip adventure.

Here Are Some Resources to Help You Plan Your Solo Trip 

One of the most useful resources to have in case of an emergency on your solo road trip is a MAP . Yes, even though we live in the modern age, you never know when you’ll have shitty cell service or when Google Maps decides to suddenly freak out on you. You can rest assured that by having a paper map, you can find your way back to civilization.

The next resources on our list are a bit more modern. As a solo traveler, you are definitely going to want to bookmark or download these apps and websites that are made specifically for travelers:

Map and the open road on a spontaneous road trip alone

  • An all-time favorite of mine! This website and app help you not only plan out your route, but they offer suggestions on possible spots you would be interested in exploring based on your preferences. So it’s definitely a must when you are planning your solo journey and trying to figure out what you would like to explore nearby.
  • Similar to Roadtrippers, this website and app also help you plan out your route and offer suggestions on places to visit. But where it differs is that you can have your itinerary and map all in one place. Talk about efficiency. 
  • Though I’m sure you know what this app does, just in case you have been living under a rock, this app’s main function is to provide directions. It also has other features that allow you to see what is nearby, such as restaurants, gas stations, and grocery stores. 
  • This website/app is a service where people can rent out their property for any duration of time. It allows travelers to book these properties giving them a place to stay. 
  • This website/app helps travelers find deals on hotels.
  • This website/app is a service that allows its members to share their homes with travelers looking for a place to stay. This is a great way to meet new locals and connect with fellow travelers.
  • This website helps you find local attractions, activities, and tours. 
  • This is another website that also helps you find local attractions, activities, and tours.

Lastly, but certainly not least, it’s important to have your loose itinerary written down somewhere you won’t lose it. This could either be on your phone in an app, a Google Doc, or even on a simple piece of paper. Having this will always allow you to refer back to it so you can travel with confidence. 

Freebie Alert: Check out my free Solo Road Trip Planner Printout. Coming Soon . .

Top Tips and Essentials On How To Take a Spontaneous Roadtrip 

Traveling alone means that you only have yourself to rely on. A one-person road trip means you will be the only one doing all the driving. So it’s best to prepare for any long travel days where you will be stuck in the car driving solo. This means figuring out how long you will realistically be able to drive, how many rests stops you will need, and how to entertain yourself. Here are the top tips you need when solo traveling.

How to Pass the Time on a Road Trip Alone

Some might say that when figuring out how to go on a spontaneous road trip alone, the biggest hurdle they face is how to pass the time. Many people think of companionless travel as boring or lonely. Newsflash, it doesn’t have to be and there are definitely things you can do ahead of time to make sure you are thoroughly entertained.

Have an Awesome Solo Trip Playlist

Music on a spontaneous road trip alone

Let’s talk about how to plan for boredom. Because no matter how amusing you are, there is likely going to come a time where that is just not enough. When that time comes, you are going to be glad you came prepared for battle. 

Remember that whatever you decide to entertain yourself with, it has to be something that you can do while driving. This condition definitely limits some activities, like scrolling through IG on your phone or watching a movie or TV show, but other options can be just as entertaining. 

The number one option and most people’s go-to is to listen to music. The simplest way to do this would be through the radio. Just keep in mind that radio stations are determined by location and tend to play the same thing over and over. So if you’re somewhere unfamiliar, you’re gonna have to scan a few different channels before you find one you like. If you want a more curated playlist, then you could always use apps like:

  • Google Play
  • Amazon Music

If listening to music gets boring for you, then there are always audiobooks or podcasts that you can listen to that can keep you entertained for hours while on the road.  All the apps listed above have podcast options you can listen to. Though some may also have options for audiobooks, the best app for this has to be Audible.

So whether you only do 1 or all of these options while road tripping, it’s best to have some prepared ahead of time. This way, you are not fumbling with your phone while driving. Remember SAFETY FIRST!

A Solo Road Trip Needs Snacks

When I think of how to go on a spontaneous road trip alone, my mind immediately goes to snacks. This is for everyone, right? This is definitely a part of the planning process where I do not skimp out! 

Every spontaneous solo road trip needs snacks. No matter where you are going, you are going to get hungry. When hunger sets in, you will be so thankful that you are fully stocked with your go-to goodies.

Another reason that it is a good idea to bring your own snacks instead of just eating whatever fast food or convenience store junk food you happen to come across is that you can completely control what you pack. So if you have specific dietary needs that you know are difficult to find on the road, then you don’t have to worry. You’ve got yourself covered. 

You can pack treats that are IBS-friendly, lactose-free, nut-free, gluten-free, vegan, or even keto. The sky’s the limit and you are in control. Also, when packing, consider getting a cooler that you can fill with all your goodies. This helps not only store them but also preserve them. 

Need some non-food-related ideas on what to pack for your solo journey? Here is my list of 7 Travel Must-Have’s to Travel Like a Pro.

Plan Your Rest Stops 

Another great way to prepare for your unaccompanied road trip is to know where the rest stops are. Since you will be the only one doing all the driving, you are going to want to make periodic stops. This could be to either fuel up, eat a meal, rehydrate, or you might just need to stretch your legs on those long travel days.

One of the best ways to know where these rest stops are if you are traveling in the USA is to use the app USA Rest Stop Locator . This app is super useful and definitely worth checking out. 

Say yes to a spontaneous road trip alone

Is It More Dangerous for Female Solo Travelers? 

As a fellow female traveler, I definitely make sure I know how to go on a spontaneous road trip alone. As a female, you are often told never to travel alone because you can get robbed, assaulted, kidnapped, and the list goes on. But are these fears truly valid or are they really just misconceptions and myths we have been told over and over again until we believe they are true. 

The REAL DANGERS of Tripping Alone For Women

So let’s discuss the REAL DANGERS that solo female travelers are most likely to face and how to protect yourself on a road trip. Believe it or not, the most common dangers that a female or a person in general actually faces are transportation accidents or car troubles.

Yup, it’s not getting robbed or assaulted. It’s the chance of getting into a car accident or getting a flat tire. This totally makes sense if you really think about it. You are more likely to spend a greater amount of time driving vs actually exploring or sightseeing. 

So make sure your car is in good shape and that you have car or travel insurance in case you need any roadside assistance. Doing just these two things should help to lessen any trouble that may arise. 

Are Single Female Travel Concerns Valid?

Though the common list of fears women face, like getting robbed, assaulted, or even kidnapped, are less likely to happen, it doesn’t mean that they are not valid concerns. It is still possible for these things to happen. 

Should you let these concerns stop you from traveling alone as a female? I vote no . 

Life isn’t without risk, and the benefits that you can gain from this type of experience are enormous. With that said, you should definitely still take some precautions to help greatly mitigate the chances of something like this happening. Knowing how to go on a spontaneous road trip alone as a female traveler is half the battle.

Advice to Help Keep Solo Travel Females Safe

Some advice and precautions you can take are being aware of your surroundings and staying alert. Often, people will try to spot and take advantage of easy targets . By being vigilant, you can help avoid being their next victim. Now, this doesn’t mean being so hyper-focused that it takes away from the experience. Instead, aim for a healthy balance. 

Also, make sure that you let others know where you are. You can call or use an app to check in with them often or at designated times. Or you can just drop a pin at your location. This way your friends and family know where you are in case of an emergency. This gives you an extra layer of protection.

You can also use safety apps like:

Stop Being Too Nice

How to go on a spontaneous road trip alone

One of the best pieces of advice you can receive as a solo female traveler is to – STOP BEING TOO NICE! This can not be stressed enough. If your gut is telling you something is off, it’s okay to be rude . 

So if you feel you need permission to be an asshole, here it is! YOU ARE ALLOWED TO BE ASSERTIVE AND SAY NO!  

Often, people will try to take advantage of niceness and politeness. It’s essential to learn to say NO to anything that makes you uncomfortable. You should never sacrifice your comfort and safety for fear of being impolite or upsetting someone you don’t even know.

Want more tips and to hear what I learned while on a spontaneous road trip alone as a woman? Check out my article here.

Final Thoughts . . 

You might say that planning a spontaneous solo road trip may seem counterproductive. But planning really is the best way to make sure that you have the best experience possible. You don’t have to go overboard with planning, just make sure that you have your basics covered. It’s time to hit the road and have the spontaneous road trip of your dreams.

Related posts:

  • Should I Go On A Spontaneous Road Trip Alone?
  • 8 Ways to Solve Anxiety About Traveling Alone
  • 3 Things I Learned From Going On A Spontaneous Road Trip Alone As A Woman
  • Traveling Solo: The Best Safety Apps for Road Trips

Anna

Anna is a traveler, blogger, and entrepreneur who can’t keep herself still. She’s always on the move, whether working hard on a new passion project or exploring a new city as a part-time digital nomad. Dare to keep up? Check out The Tatted Nomad for everything digital nomad, social media marketing, mental health, and travel (and to see her latest addition, Novah, her service dog and travel companion). As a psychotherapist (to be) she also offers insights about your mental health related questions – anything you see that isn’t covered but you have questions about? Let her know!

Find me on: Web | Instagram

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Spontaneous Road Trips

FIRST TIME TO THE SITE?

Start here.

spontaneous road trip meaning

Read a couple of travel stories, check out some of my popular photo essays, browse the travel resources and start planning your own spontaneous road trip!

Or, if you'd like a little help, find out how to contact me so I can create a custom dream itinerary for you, too.

STEPS TO GET GOING . . .

1. Get Inspired --> 2. Plan Your Trip -->

3. Travel Tips --> 4. Packing Guides --> 5. GO!

Photo Essay

1. GET INSPIRED!

First things first! Where do you want to go? Or maybe you don't have a place in mind. There are so many amazing sights and I’ve shared useful tips on traveling to destinations in the United States, Canada and Europe. Wanderlust is often sparked by stumbling on a beautiful image of an interesting place and adding it to your travel bucket list. If you’re interested in taking a dream trip, but need a little inspiration to choose the right destination for you, check out some of my top articles on bucket list trips for all types of travelers!

2. PLAN YOUR TRIP

It can be overwhelming to know where to begin planning your dream trip. What should I do first? Then what? With so much information out there, travel planning can seem daunting. This section is where I've put together articles to help you perfectly plan your dream trip - from finding the right accommodations, estimating travel costs, to timing your trip and more.

And, if you find yourself bewildered, click to find out how to contact me so I can create a custom itinerary for you .

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3. TRAVEL TIPS

Once you’ve picked your destination, it’s time to nail down the details and make your final plans. After years of travel, I’ve learned a thing or two, and I’ve compiled comprehensive travel guides and helpful travel tips for pretty much every situation you could come across while traveling. Is it your first solo trip? Your first time driving in another country? Or, maybe, you’re traveling on a budget? How can I protect myself from theft and scams? These guides can help you plan the best trip possible.

4. PACKING GUIDES

Buying new travel gear can be expensive and nobody wants to waste money! This section will teach you how to buy the right luggage, what not to pack, and give you some insider hints for the road! Learn to pack efficiently, how to anticipate all types of weather and plan for what's appropriate to wear at your destination. I’ve outlined my best packing tips and checklists for loads of travel destinations. Using these tips, packing can be fun - really!

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Discover destinations in the United States, Canada and Europe.

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If you are inspired by what you see and read, I am available to be your personal travel consultant. Click to find out how . . .

IMAGES

  1. What Is a Spontaneous Road Trip? (How to take one)

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  2. 6 Signs You Should Say Yes to That Spontaneous Trip

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  3. Three Tips For a Perfect Spontaneous Road Trip

    spontaneous road trip meaning

  4. Spontaneous Travel: 8 Things to Consider

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  5. How To Plan A Spontaneous Road Trip With Your Girls This Summer

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  6. How to Take a Spontaneous Road Trip & Skip the Planning! · Planes

    spontaneous road trip meaning

VIDEO

  1. SPONTANEOUS Road Trip to Alabama

  2. Spontaneous Road Trip #roadtrip #trips

  3. Day trip to Port Huron, Michigan

COMMENTS

  1. What Is a Spontaneous Road Trip? (How to take one)

    A spontaneous road trip is a good idea for those who want an affordable vacation and have a reliable car. The costs of a road trip are gas, lodging and entertainment. By leaving the itinerary open you are able to travel within your budget without sacrificing adventure.

  2. Why You Should Take A Spontaneous Road Trip (& How To Plan It)

    One way to have a fun road trip is to avoid the main highways as much as possible. Take backroads to one's destination and see what is along the way. Tip: Drive The Backroads. Some people do enjoy planning more than others. But the sweet spot is to find a balance between planning and spontaneity to discover the hidden gems and to have the ...

  3. How to Take a Spontaneous Road Trip & Skip the Planning!

    Jump to: Step #1: Decide on the length of your spontaneous road trip. Step #2: Pack the car. Step #3: Pick a direction. Step #4: Stop and explore. Step #5: Call it a night when you get tired. Step #6: Pick a new direction each day. Step #7: Have fun! Tips to make your spontaneous road trip great.

  4. Spontaneous Travel Tips: How To Take A Last-Minute Trip

    Keep the itinerary short and simple. Resist the urge to cram a bunch of last-minute adventures or reservations into your itinerary. That goes against the spirit of a spontaneous trip. "For people who are big planners but are thinking about doing their first spontaneous trip, try to only plan one big activity or place to see a day," Susag said.

  5. What Is a Spontaneous Road Trip?

    A spontaneous road trip is the perfect way to break the monotony of everyday life. It's a journey where you pack your bags, hop in your car, and hit the open road without any particular destination in mind. The beauty of a spontaneous road trip lies in the fact that you don't know where you're going, but you're excited to find out.

  6. Why a Spontaneous Road Trip is Exactly What You Need

    Changing up your scenery is KEY for creativity. That's why a road trip can be the perfect thing for artists and creatives. 'The everyday' is a killer of creative brainstorming - you need novel experiences, sites, surroundings to reinvigorate the right brain and keep it inspired. Bring some art supplies with you and try creating a visual ...

  7. How to Plan a Spontaneous U.S. Road Trip

    One of our favorites is freecampsites.net . It's easy to use: Just use your smart phone's GPS to find camping near you or plug in specific locations to plan out your route. Sometimes you stumble upon really incredible spots, other times they're patches of gravel on the side of the road. Either way, they're free and close to where you want ...

  8. Spontaneous Travel: A Detailed Guide to Travel On A Whim

    If you want to take more spontaneous trips this 2019, you don't have to start with a three-month solo adventure somewhere international. Start with a local day trip and learn the basics about navigation, safety, booking, etc. Choose a destination that is less than an hour and a half away from your hometown, and read up on the best local attractions and restaurants in that city either on the ...

  9. How To Embrace Spontaneous Travel

    The short answer - Embrace Randomness. Flip a coin or play a game of stone, paper, scissors to make decisions when you travel. You can also try throwing a dart on the number of options that lie in front of you. Embracing making random choices is liberating and gives you a break from planning things down to the tee.

  10. 5 Tips for Planning a Spontaneous Trip

    4. Make Friends with Locals. Baristas, bartenders, waitstaff, store owners, cab drivers—engage! The more open you are to the people and experience, the more open they are likely to be with you. When you start with a smile and a question, you will find that conversation easily follows. 5. Ask a Lot of Questions.

  11. 3 Things I Learned From Going On A Spontaneous Road Trip ...

    Here's some of the essentials that you should keep with you in your car before you leave: #2 Dangers Of Driving Cross Country Alone To Keep In Mind When Going On A (Spontaneous) Solo Road Trip. #3 Have A General Plan, Even On A Spontaneous Road Trip Alone. GetYourGuide To Experience Something New On Your Solo Road Trip.

  12. What Does Spontaneous Road Trip Mean?

    A spontaneous road trip is an impromptu journey that involves getting into the car and driving off without any pre-planned route, destination or timeline. It often involves exploring new places, trying out different cuisines, experiencing local culture and meeting new people along the way.

  13. 12 Ways to Plan a Spontaneous Trip Without Going Broke

    Then consider redeeming your credit card rewards or cashing in your airline miles to subsidize your last-minute flight, according to a post on Nerdwallet.com. "You can calculate the value of ...

  14. How to Travel Spontaneously: 12 Steps (with Pictures)

    1. Decide where you'd like to travel. While the idea of showing up at an airport and buying a ticket on the spot may sound fun, it's unrealistic and likely quite expensive. Decide if you want to travel domestically or abroad, and then pick a city, series of cities, or region that you'd like to visit.

  15. Should You Take a Spontaneous Trip? Here are 7 Good Reasons To Go!

    5. You Can Embrace the Challenge. Taking a spontaneous trip is a great challenge to sink your teeth into. The sudden need to prepare for a trip and being a little unsure of your destination is a great motivator! You will find the emotional, mental, and physical challenge allows you to overcome your anxieties.

  16. How to Take a Spontaneous Road Trip

    Finally, perhaps the best part of a spontaneous road trip is that you can stop when you get tired. Instead of trying to push through to make it to a certain destination for the night, you can find an open hotel and stop when you're tired of driving for the day. Not only will you feel more rested and not so burnt out on driving, but you may ...

  17. A Guide to Taking a Spontaneous Trip

    A spontaneous trip is the perfect way to inject a little adventure into your everyday life. All you need to do is pick a destination, and then plan from there. You can live the high life or travel on a tight budget, so long as the trip is tailored to you. If you want to enjoy a little carefree travel in 2019 and create memories you are unlikely ...

  18. Spontaneous Trips

    Capture your spontaneous trip with a travel journal or blog. Share your experiences, thoughts, and photos to create lasting memories. Inspire other visitors to be spontaneous, whether on their own or with a group. 14. Embrace the Unknown. Spontaneous travel often leads to unexpected discoveries. Solo travelers and groups should be willing to ...

  19. The Power of Taking a Spontaneous Trip

    Perhaps the best part about taking a spontaneous trip, or planning a last minute vacation is that we don't have too much time to mentally prepare. Yes, that's a good thing - hear me out. If you've been thinking about every aspect of a trip for six months, and you've played it out in your mind a million times, you've already painted a ...

  20. 4 Great Spontaneous Road Trips

    Texas' Hill Country. New York's Catskills. Southern California's Joshua Tree National Park. Chicago to Lake Michigan's Other Side. 1. We've put together four spontaneous road trip ideas to help make travel a little easier. All you've got to do is fill up your tank and head out for a few days or even longer. 2.

  21. How To Go On A Spontaneous Road Trip Alone?

    Traveling alone means that you only have yourself to rely on. A one-person road trip means you will be the only one doing all the driving. So it's best to prepare for any long travel days where you will be stuck in the car driving solo. This means figuring out how long you will realistically be able to drive, how many rests stops you will ...

  22. Start Here

    Read a couple of travel stories, check out some of my popular photo essays, browse the travel resources and start planning your own spontaneous road trip! Or, if you'd like a little help, find out how to contact me so I can create a custom dream itinerary for you, too.

  23. How to Take a Spontaneous RV Trip

    Hitting the road in an RV is awesome for a number of reasons. It allows you to explore without spending a fortune, you can see things off the beaten path while still staying comfortable in your home-on-wheels, and you're able to take spontaneous RV trip adventures. Of course, even a spontaneous RV trip requires some amount of planning. You ...