While I love traveling by car and plane, sometimes road trips are the better option. Both will get you where you want to go, but the experiences can be vastly different. If you are visiting a faraway locale, the time saved by flying is worth it. Otherwise, it is all up to your preference. Below are reasons I think road trips are better than flying.
Reasons Road Trips Are Better Than Flying
1. Affordability
Road trips are often cheaper than air travel, especially for large groups or families. Plane tickets and checked baggage fees add up quickly. Driving with friends can mean additional savings if you can split costs for gas, accommodation, and food.
2. Flexibility
- Road trips are all about flexibility. You can take your time – start and end your day when you want. If you need a break, you can choose to stop and stretch or grab a meal.
- You can also change your itinerary more easily. If you are having a wonderful time, you can extend you visit. If you do not like it, you can leave earlier than planned.
3. Attractions
- Flying takes you to one destination at a set time. Due to the added flexibility with road trips, adventure opportunities are endless. You can stop any time you see a sign, restaurant, pull-off, or attraction of interest. There are tons of last-minute discoveries you didn’t know you needed.
- Some examples of unplanned stops I’ve found while driving include scenic overlooks, roadside parks, and waterfalls along the highway. These were great additions to the day.
4. Space
Driving means you can bring anything that fits in or on your vehicle. No more worrying about travel-size liquids or fitting everything into a single carry-on bag. Travelers can take sports equipment like bikes or skis. More space also allows you to bring back more souvenirs.
5. Comfort
- Comfort is a key benefit of road trips. Car seats are typically wider and more comfortable than on a plane. If you are not the driver, you can nap while reclining farther than a plane seat or by laying across the car’s entire back seat.
- As mentioned above, you can stop and stretch when needed.
- Road trippers can carry whatever drinks and snacks they want.
- It is easier to bring your pets with you when you drive.
- Plus, I can sing aloud to my favorite songs; I can’t do that on the plane. 😊
6. Control
- Driving gives you much more control over your trip. You can avoid all the timing issues associated with air travel such as having to arrive 2 to 3 hours ahead of departure, delays or cancellations, long layovers, and missed connections.
- If you typically check a bag when flying, there is always the chance they will lose your luggage. This is not an issue when you drive.
- Also, you do not have to worry about dealing with a stranger sitting next to you on road trips.
7. Relationships
- With the additional time in your own little bubble, road trips can strengthen your relationships. This applies to your partner, siblings, kids, or friends.
- Quality time in the car allows you to have deep discussions.
- Kids play games with each other while away from the normal distractions at home.
- Unexpected discoveries on the road become the stories and memories you share forever.
- If you do have any negative experiences, you can lean on each other and work through the challenge together.
Those were my 7 reasons that road trips are better than flying. If you have never taken a long road trip, I hope this blog has made you consider it for your next vacation.
If you do drive often, what is your favorite part about road trips? Comment below!