The Great American Summer Road Trip for Retirees

Planning and some forethought will make your summer road trip all you want it to be

Introduction

As with almost all things worth doing in life, there’s always going to be some of what many think of as the boring stuff – preparation and planning. But those things often prove critical to the success of a worthwhile endeavor, no matter the type or when undertaken.

Not so much different than the planning and discipline you put into preparing to retire.

That’s definitely the case when it comes to a planning your summertime road trip adventure, ensuring that it will prove to be both safe and memorable. The road trip you’ve probably envisioned enjoying in your retirement for years on end.

To that end, we focus first on the planning that will be necessary for your retirement road trip. And thereafter we offer a handful of iconic road-trip options worth your consideration.

Plan

While simply setting out one day led only by the direction the wind blows sounds great, even romantic, it’s likely to fail for many reasons.

Fact is you’ve probably planned for most things in your life. Certainly you had a plan and created habits that prepared you for retiring and enjoying the second-half of your life.

A summer road trip now that you’re retired is no different.

To make it a successful trip, what you need is a well-organized itinerary that covers all the bases, much like the retirement plan you started working from years ago that acted as your roadmap to retirement.

Detailed itinerary

Your itinerary or trip plan should cover all the important details to be safe and to ensure you get the most of your road trip.

Where you wish to travel and what you hope to do when you get there is important. As is what you do between your staring point and destination.

With that kind of detail you can start to determine how much time might be necessary, what kind of trip you’ll take (camping and outdoors, sightseeing, event, bucket list items, et cetera), how you’ll travel (car or an RV), lodging, what type of cloths and equipment/supplies you’ll need, how much to pack, and much more.

As you go through the planning process you can start to create a well-designed itinerary.

This includes everything you can think of, down to the overall route, roads and streets you’ll travel each day, mileage you’ll cover/number of driving hours each day, alternatives (in case something is closed, roads blocked, et cetera), and where you plan to be on each day of the trip.

It also lays out where you will lodge or camp each night, cool or interesting things to do each day (attractions or events), who you will communicate with and how, and much more.

While planning you can take advantage of finding discounts that might be available and ensure you’ll have suitable accommodations for each night of the trip by booking hotel rooms or campground reservations in advance. Nothing like driving around late at night with no place to stay.

Doing this early ensures best pricing. It also allows you to investigate issues in advance, such as whether the hotel or campground is pet friendly, has wheel chair access, offers a complimentary breakfast or late checkouts, and more.

You can also research things to do in each town along the way and determine which you might want to experience. This includes attractions (buy tickets in advance in order to reserve a spot and potentially take advantage of discounts), events, celebrations (ex.- 200th anniversary of a town you’ll be visiting or that’s nearby during your trip), and much more.

Key considerations

As part of designing your itinerary, there are a number of key items and issues you have to consider in order to ensure you cover the bases, eliminate surprises to the fullest extent possible, and make the trip as memorable as possible.

These include:

• Mode of transportation
• Vehicle inspection
• Safety supplies
• Camping equipment
• Packing
• Maps and navigation
• Communications plan
• Discounts

Mode of transportation: When it comes to getting out and enjoying a great American summer road trip  there are a number of options. We often picture a car, truck or an RV, all of which can be very enjoyable, but there’s also train, plane, and for some even a touring motorcycle or thee-wheeler option.

Whatever mode of transport you choose, you definitely want to be certain you are comfortable before setting out. This is even more important with an RV. Best to get to know the RV first, whether new or used. This includes how it handles (in general, uphill, downhill, around curves, in rain, et cetera), as well as fuel consumption, it’s power and acceleration, and more.

You’ll also want to consider whether you might be bringing something along for use while traveling that requires extra equipment, such as a rear-mounted bike rack or wheel chair carrier, or a top carrier rack for a canoe/kayak/paddle board, et cetera.

You may even want to tow something, such as a small car behind your full-sized RV (easy to zip around on in town if on an extended trip), or a fifth-wheel or collapsible trailer. Perhaps even a flat trailer for a motorcycle, jet ski, or camping equipment.

While the possibilities are endless, allowing you to really do what you want while vacationing, you have to get used to towing something behind your car, truck or RV, otherwise you could run into a rude awakening while hundreds to thousands of miles away from home.

One last idea – you can always start from a location other than your home (take a flight) and then rent a vehicle and necessary equipment to set off on your dream road trip. This can really open up possibilities, such as Alaska or Hawaii.

Vehicle inspection: Whatever mode of travel you choose, you definitely want to be certain all the vehicles you will use have been inspected before starting out. Everything from air in the tires to wiper fluid, oil, spark plugs, transmission fluid, et cetera, should be checked and filled. This also includes a general operating inspection.

Remember also the vehicles and equipment you may be towing or stowing for use on your trip. No propane for the grill might seriously impact your plans. If towing, make certain your tow package includes working lights and that they are functioning correctly – brake and turn lights are working. Also, the hitch you’re using is functioning correctly. Same for the trailer if using one.

Safety supplies: Sounds like a no-brainer, but you can’t take a chance when you are out on the road that something needed is missing. You might have pulled the jumper cables to help a neighbor a month ago and not returned them to the RV. Or needed something from a first-aid kit.

Do a full inspection to ensure you have everything in the days before setting out.

Be sure to have these items, at a minimum:

• A working flashlight
• Heavy-duty jumper cables
• Emergency car kit
• Back-up phone
• Warm blankets
• Hand, foot and body warmers (yes, even summer nights can get cold in some areas)
• Tool kit
• Vehicle jack
• A safety rope
• Tow rope or cable
• First-aid kit
• Multiple mobile auto chargers
• A decent rechargeable mobile charging unit for all your electric/electronic items
• Hand-cranked charger (if all else fails)
• Plenty of water and other non-sugar liquids for hydration
• Food/snacks (granola bars, dried fruit, nuts, trail mix, et cetera)
• Glass break and seatbelt cutter combo tool
• Light sticks and safety reflective triangles
• Cans of Fix-A-Flat tire inflator
• Electric air pump
• Gas can (just in case)
• And more

Camping equipment: Whether you plan to camp out on your journey or not, you have to plan on the possibility you may end up doing so, voluntarily or not. Think of this as an addition to your safety equipment.

A cooler, tent, sleeping bags, cots, kindling or fire starter materials, matches, spare lighters, fan (for hot nights), bug spray, sun block spray or lotion, fishing gear (rod/reel/tackle) and other equipment will make your time under the sun and stars all the more enjoyable. And end up being of use if you run into the unexpected.

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Packing: First thing you should consider when packing is what type of clothing you’ll need based on where you’ll travel. Be sure to consider what you plan to do, such as hitting the watering hole, playing some golf, hiking, sightseeing, upscale dining once in a while, et cetera.

While at it don’t forget about inclement weather. Or the fact it can get quite cold at night even in warm areas of the country during the summer months. Be sure to bring something for rain and even a heavy sweater and a decent coat for potentially chilly nights.

Overall, you want to pack lightly and efficiently – you don’t want to take up a lot of room with suitcases. Packing cubes and compression bags can help to minimize space needed for your cloths.

Be sure to pack your medicine, toiletries, reading materials you may wish to relax with (including audio books and podcasts), ear pods, a night reading light, board games and anything else you may wish to have for entertainment purposes.

Maps and navigation: No doubt you’ll be relying on the GPS equipped in your vehicle and probably that on your phone, but you need to think redundancy when it comes to knowing where you are at now and how to get to your next destination.

While it may seem outdated, you should have a map book. And it’s best to map out each stage of your itinerary in advance so you don’t find yourself stuck in the middle of nowhere late at night with no electricity and no idea of where you’re at or which way to head.

Communications plan: While the point is to get away, you have to share your itinerary with one or more trusted loved ones or friends.

Incorporating this with your detailed itinerary helps to cover the bases. Things happen and you many find yourself stranded or in trouble and unable to simply dial someone up at any given time.

By creating a plan for that eventuality in advance and sharing it with dedicated people, you ensure someone has a good idea where you are or should be at any time during your trip.

Discounts: Before heading out you’ll want to have an idea of things you’ll be doing while traveling. Be sure to take full advantage of discounts that are always out there and available. You can save some money and take advantage of other perks by being proactive in searching for discounts in advance.

These can range from events and places you wish to visit (example – museums, attractions, et cetera) to restaurants, hotels or Inns/BNBs, parks (state and national parks, RV, et cetera), campgrounds and much more. You can bet there are always companies (small and large) who cater to seniors that can save you some serious dollars.

5 Iconic Road Trips

Now that you’ve done your planning and research, and without further ado, here are five of the most famous road trips to consider for your summer getaway that are located across different areas of the country.

Gulf Coast Route – Alabama and Mississippi. Overall, a relative short route (approximately 130 miles) that runs between Mobile Bay (on the Gulf Coast of Alabama) to coastal Mississippi.

But there’s so much more. There’s literally thousands of miles of farms, fishing spots, gardens, historic homes, estuary habitats, Bama’s historic beaches, trails, preserves and amazing scenery.

The Coastal Connection Scenic Byway and Gulf Coast Route will provide you will all kinds of activities (shopping, water activities, sightseeing, entertainment, et cetera) and things to experience, combing beach vibes, coastal living and southern charm.

Peak to Peak Highway – Colorado. Another short route, but it is loaded with all kinds of towns, routes, scenic areas, railroads, the continental divide, and just about anything you might want to do if you enjoy the mountains and the historic west.

You’ll find yourself wondering through Rocky Mountain National Park and other famous national forests. Plan to visit and enjoy a vast array of famous mountain peaks, lakes, rivers, ski areas (offering plenty of fun and recreational activities in the summer months), and more, all set among a backdrop of aspen and evergreen forests.

There’s also old-west gambling towns, gold mines and ghost towns (still active), an endless selection of mountain-cabin lodging selections, picturesque mountain valley areas (Estes Park is a great example – beautiful during the summer and home of the famous Stanley Hotel), and so much more.

Hiking, fishing, biking, kayaking, rafting, and camping enthusiasts, and those simply wanting to slow down, relax and enjoy nature, will find this area in the Colorado Rockies to be everything they’ve ever heard to be true. You won’t run out of things to do.

Additionally, you are in close proximity to Boulder, Golden and Denver, so there are all kinds of indoor and outdoor entertainment, lodging and dining options available.

Blue Ridge Parkway – North Carolina and Virginia. This is no short distance trip. In fact it is the longest linear park in the U.S., connecting numerous parks and forests. It actually runs close to both Georgia and Tennessee, making very popular areas in those states easily accessible when doing a trip traversing the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Spanning 469 miles located within the Appalachian mountains and encompassing nearly 30 counties and countless small towns and a couple major cities, it connects The Great Smoky Mountain National Park, originating in Cherrokee, N.C., to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia.

The Parkway was envisioned by FDR in the 30s’ as part of his “New Deal” program and eventually completed in 1987. This drive is recognized by many as “America’s Favorite Drive,” winding through mountains, cities and towns, including Asheville, N.C., the home of the famous Biltmore Estate.

From enjoying the scenic drive itself to luxuriating at the Biltmore, engaging in outdoor activities of all types, checking out some the most picturesque waterfalls, rivers, lakes, and mountain settings that the area is blessed with, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a must at some point for road trip enthusiasts.

Route 66 – Eight states, from Chicago, IL. to Santa Monica, CA. Launched in 1926, it was the first federal highway system in the country. According to the National Park Service, it traverses more than 2,400 miles across two-thirds of the North American continent.

The famous interstate system (officially U.S. Highway 66) was gradually replaced or bypassed over several decades by a number of interstate highways (I-55, I-44, I-40, I-15, and I-10) and finally decommissioned in 1985.

Yet, despite being sidelined (large swaths of the original roadway still exist and are drivable), Route 66 has become immortalized and is considered the most iconic of road trip highways in the U.S.

Nicknamed “America’s Mother Road,” for many Route 66 represents true Americana.

Immortalized in John Steinbeck’s “The Grapes of Wrath,” today a road trip along parts of Route 66 is a must for anyone interested in experiencing America’s geographical and cultural history. You’ll encounter the varied landscapes of the U.S., from the streets of Chicago to the desert stretches of Texas and Arizona, and finally the beaches of California.

Plan to visit a plethora of small towns (including ghost towns) and diners. Then there’s viewing the Grand Canyon and checking out a ton of quirky roadside attractions, including the largest rocking chair, the Blue Whale of Catoosa, the world’s tallest thermometer, the Big Texas Steak Ranch for a 72-oz. steak, et cetera.

There’s plenty to experience, making Route 66 the ultimate road trip to experience.

Pacific Coast Highway – Three states, California, Oregon and Washington. Originating in the far northwest corner of the country, U.S. 101/Scenic Highway 101 is one of the most famous stretches of roadway anywhere. The highway remains in sight of the Pacific Ocean almost all the way south to the Mexican border.

While most think of the nearly 600 miles of California coastline (San Franciso to San Diego) when considering a Pacific Coast Highway road trip, in fact the entire stretch is 1,650 miles.

Along the way you’ll experience logging and fishing communities, rugged coastlines, surfing towns, redwood forests, Big Sur, Spanish colonial missions, a Danish-inspired village, the renowned Hearst Castle, famous SoCal beaches, Hollywood, Disney Land, and more.

Interspersed with the small towns, hamlets and villages along the way, you’ll also pass through Seatle, Portland, San Franciso, Los Angeles and San Diego. Talk about an eclectic mix. This is truly one of the most iconic road trips you’ll can experience anywhere.

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Conclusion

As mentioned at the start, a memorable road trip once you retire is much different than those we experienced when younger. Jumping in the car and setting off on a last-minute whim is not really what can be considered the Great American Summer Road Trip.

Fact is an endeavor of this sort does require planning and accounting for many considerations to ensure this special type of retirement trip is all you want it to be.

It’s much like planning for your retirement in a strategic manner.

Speaking of which, when it comes to your retirement plan, we’d be happy to look at what you have to determine if it is capable of adequately and securely meeting your goals and those of your family.

If you don’t already have one, we can assist you by creating a holistic retirement plan capable of helping you to retire with confidence.

We can build a comprehensive retirement plan utilizing strategies and planning techniques that address important issues, such as proper asset allocation, risk, Social Security, taxes, income, spending, healthcare, legacy, and more, customized to your family’s specific needs.

A plan created with the goal of ensuring you can successfully live out the retirement you envision.

If you are ready to take the next step and talk to a team of annuity experts and retirement planners who can advise on all your retirement needs, and who will put your interests first, schedule a call today!

 

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