Taking a road trip with friends is an adventure like no other.

Imagine the open road, your favorite playlist blaring through the speakers, and your best friends all around you—but let’s be honest, planning the trip can also feel a little overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time.

If you’re gearing up for your first road trip with friends, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from planning your route to making sure your vehicle is ready for the journey.

By the end, you’ll be confident and ready to hit the road without a care in the world.

1. Choose the Right Destination

The first step in planning any road trip is deciding where you’re going. And while that may sound simple, it’s important to pick a destination that everyone in your group will enjoy.

Consider Everyone’s Interests

When picking your destination, take everyone’s interests into account. If half the group wants to go hiking in the mountains and the other half wants to visit a bustling city, you’ll want to find a destination that offers a little of both.

Remember, this is a trip for everyone, so make sure there’s something fun for each person.

Start Small for Your First Trip

If this is your first road trip, don’t feel like you have to drive coast to coast. Starting with a destination that’s just a few hours away can help ease you into the road trip lifestyle.

My friends and I decided to take a short trip to a nearby national park, and it was the perfect balance of adventure without feeling too overwhelming.

Plus, it’s easier to plan for shorter trips, and you’ll have fewer logistical challenges.

2. Plan Your Route

Once you’ve settled on a destination, it’s time to plan the route. Road trips are all about the journey as much as the destination, so you want to make sure your route is both efficient and enjoyable.

Use Navigation Tools

Planning your route has never been easier thanks to apps like Google Maps, Waze, and Roadtrippers. These tools can help you find the fastest way to get to your destination, while also suggesting fun stops along the way.

Whether it’s quirky roadside attractions, scenic overlooks, or tasty local diners, take some time to plan a few stops that’ll break up the drive and add to the experience.

Plan for Pit Stops

No one likes being stuck in the car for hours without a break. Make sure to schedule pit stops every two to three hours. Even if it’s just to stretch your legs or grab a snack, these little breaks can make a big difference in keeping everyone’s spirits high.

Avoid Major Traffic Routes

Depending on where you’re going, some roads are notorious for heavy traffic. If possible, plan your trip to avoid rush hours or highways that tend to get congested.

There’s nothing worse than sitting in bumper-to-bumper traffic when you’re supposed to be on vacation!

3. Check and Prepare Your Vehicle

Your car is the heart of the road trip, so it’s important to make sure it’s in top shape before you hit the road. I learned this the hard way when, halfway through a trip, my car’s “check engine” light came on, leading to a stressful detour to the nearest mechanic.

Get a Pre-Trip Checkup

Before you leave, take your car in for a quick checkup. Make sure the oil is changed, tires are properly inflated, and the brakes are working well.

If your car needs any repairs, it’s better to take care of them before the trip starts rather than dealing with a breakdown in the middle of nowhere.

Pack Emergency Supplies

Even if your car is in great shape, it’s always a good idea to pack an emergency kit. This should include things like jumper cables, a spare tire, tire-changing tools, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and some extra water. You never know when you might need it, and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

4. Divide Responsibilities

A road trip with friends works best when everyone is involved and shares the responsibilities. One person shouldn’t have to do all the work, whether it’s driving, navigating, or managing snacks.

Designate Drivers

If the trip is going to be long, it’s important to rotate drivers so that no one gets too tired. Make sure that everyone who is willing to drive has a valid license and is comfortable with the car. I recommend setting up a driving schedule before you leave so there’s no confusion or arguments about who drives when.

Assign Other Roles

Beyond driving, there are plenty of other roles to consider. One person can be in charge of navigating and keeping an eye on directions, while another might be responsible for entertainment (like queuing up the playlist).

Don’t forget about a “snack master” who makes sure the road trip munchies are always within reach!

Work Together on Budgeting

Whether you’re splitting gas, food, or lodging, it’s important to set a budget and figure out how everyone will contribute. Apps like Splitwise or Venmo can make splitting costs super easy.

Trust me, having a clear plan for handling expenses can save a lot of stress later on.

5. Pack Smart

Packing for a road trip is an art in itself. You want to make sure you have everything you need, but you also don’t want the car to be so packed that no one has legroom.

Pack Light, But Bring the Essentials

It can be tempting to bring your entire wardrobe on a road trip, but remember, space in the car is limited. Stick to the essentials, and pack outfits that can be mixed and matched.

For example, I always pack layers for road trips because you never know how the weather might change. A light jacket or hoodie is a must for those chilly mornings, even if your destination is warm.

Don’t Forget Entertainment

Road trips are long, and while chatting with friends is great, there will be times when everyone’s tired, and you’ll need some distractions. Make sure to bring books, games, or even movies if you have a portable device.

Snacks, Snacks, Snacks!

Never underestimate the power of good snacks on a road trip. Pack a cooler with drinks, sandwiches, and easy-to-eat snacks like chips, fruit, or trail mix.

It’s always a good idea to have a mix of healthy options and treats, so you don’t get stuck relying on fast food for every meal. Plus, nothing beats the fun of pulling out a bag of your favorite road trip snacks mid-journey.

6. Set the Mood with Music and Podcasts

A great playlist can make or break a road trip, especially on a road trip with friends. Take some time before the trip to curate a mix of everyone’s favorite tunes.

Or, if you want to keep things interesting, have each person create a mini playlist, and take turns playing them. This way, everyone gets a chance to share their favorite music.

Podcasts for the Road

If you’re looking for something a little different, podcasts are a fantastic way to pass the time. Whether you’re into true crime, comedy, or storytelling, there’s a podcast for every mood. Plus, it can be fun to listen to a few episodes of the same show and discuss them as a group.

Audiobooks for Longer Drives

Another great option is audiobooks, especially if you’ve got a long stretch of driving ahead. Choose something light and engaging that everyone can enjoy.

7. Make Lodging Plans in Advance

While road trips are all about spontaneity, it’s a good idea to plan your lodging in advance. After a long day of driving, the last thing you want to do is scramble to find a place to sleep.

Decide Between Hotels, Motels, or Camping

Depending on your group’s preferences, you might opt for hotels, motels, or even campsites along your route (Click here for tips on Choosing a Campsite).

Each has its pros and cons—hotels tend to be more comfortable but pricier, while camping can be a more affordable option that adds to the adventure.

Just make sure everyone in your group is on the same page about where you’ll be staying.

Check for Pet-Friendly Options

If you’re traveling with pets, make sure your lodging is pet-friendly. More hotels and motels these days are welcoming to furry friends, but it’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm.

8. Be Flexible (But Have a Plan)

One of the best parts of a road trip is the flexibility—you can change your plans on a whim, discover hidden gems, or take an unexpected detour. However, it’s still helpful to have a rough itinerary in place so you don’t feel totally lost.

Have a Loose Itinerary

Before you leave, map out the key stops or attractions you want to visit. But don’t schedule every minute of the trip.

Road trips are meant to be enjoyed at a relaxed pace, so leave some room for unexpected adventures.

Prepare for Delays

Even with the best-laid plans, delays happen. Whether it’s construction, weather, or just getting a little lost, try to embrace the unexpected. Some of the best moments happen when you get strayed from the original plan.

9. Enjoy the Journey

At the end of the day, a road trip is all about enjoying time with your friends, seeing new places, and creating memories. Don’t stress too much about sticking to a perfect plan or making sure everything goes smoothly. Some of the best stories come from the little bumps along the way.

As you head out on your first road trip, remember that it’s the shared laughter, the inside jokes, and the sense of adventure that will make the journey truly unforgettable. So, buckle up, roll down the windows, and get ready for an amazing ride!