Road Trip Ready: Road Trip Planning Tips, Inspiration and Getaway Ideas

Imagine shaving $100 off your hotel bill before you even pull out of the driveway. When you hear “points and miles,” chances are you think about free flights and hotel stays. But did you know credit card rewards can also make your road trips cheaper? In this episode of Road Trip Ready Podcast, we dive into the world of credit card perks for road trippers. From car rental insurance and roadside assistance to hotel credits and loyalty perks, we break down practical ways to stretch your road trip budget. Christopher Rudder brings his no-nonsense, cautious approach (using credit cards mainly for emergencies), while Danielle Desir Corbett shares her favorite hacks for earning and redeeming rewards on everyday road trip expenses like gas, dining, and hotels. Together, we show you the pros, cons, and real-life stories that will help you decide what works best for your style of travel.By the end of this episode, you’ll know at least (8) credit card perks you can use on your next road trip.This post contains affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you use my links. Thanks for supporting my small business.What You’ll Learn:* Why road trippers shouldn’t overlook credit card rewards* Built-in perks like car rental insurance and roadside assistance* How to earn bonus points on gas, dining, hotels, and even Uber Eats* The power of stacking rewards with apps like CardPointersWhether you’re a savvy points collector or a road tripper who prefers to keep things simple, this episode is packed with ideas to help you save money and travel a little smarter.➡️ Have a favorite credit card hack for road trips? Share your tips with us—we’d love to feature them in a future episode!Resources & Mentions:* Chase Sapphire Reserve: Earn 125,000 points after you spend $6,000 in purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. * Capital One Venture: Earn 75,000 bonus miles and enjoy a $300 Capital One Travel credit for hotels and vacation rentals. Other Content You’ll Enjoy🎧 20 Smart Ways To Save Money On Your Next Road Trip - Episode 9 🎧 How To Road Trip (Almost) Free - The Thought Card Podcast by Danielle Desir Corbett CardPointers Review: Best App to Manage Credit Cards and Maximize Rewards by Danielle Desir Corbett This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roadtripready.substack.com

What if you could take an international road trip that winds through three stunning regions, crosses two countries, and gives you access to kayaking waterfalls, local dairy farms, artisan villages, and small lakeside towns?On this episode of Road Trip Ready, we’re spotlighting a true hidden gem: the International Selkirk Loop — a 280-mile scenic drive through Idaho, Washington, and British Columbia that deserves way more attention.We're joined by Jodi St. Clair of Learners and Makers, who is passionate about empowering amputees and families to explore the world through slow, budget-friendly international travel.Jodi shares how she planned her Selkirk Loop road trip, what made it so approachable, and why it’s one of her favorite underrated drives. Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Any podcast playerWe cover:* How Jodi and her family planned her international Selkirk Loop road trip with a RV* Why the Selkirk Loop is ideal for slow travel and accessible exploration* Must-visit small towns including Sandpoint, Kaslo, Creston, and more* The best stops for kayaking, outdoor art, and hands-on cultural experiences* What to consider when budgeting, crossing the border, and booking accommodations🛣️ Gear up for your next adventure—shop our favorite road trip essentials to stay comfortable, organized, and ready for anything. New finds recently added! Featured Stops Mentioned:* Newport, Washington – Jodi’s entry point into the loop* Pee Wee Falls – Accessible via kayak* Creston, British Columbia – Home to an organic woman-owned dairy farm* Crawford Bay – Artisan shops with glassblowing, weaving and more* Kaslo, British Columbia – Lakeside town with local restaurants and a community feel* Sandpoint, Idaho – Outdoor adventures, family fun, and stunning viewsResources To Plan Your Selkirk Loop Road Trip* Selkirkloop.org - Plan your trip and explore the International Selkirk Loop. Includes route maps, “Super Side Trips,” lodging, and attraction recommendations to help customize your trip.* 5 Reasons To Take an International Selkirk Loop VacationConnect with Jodie St. Clair Website: www.learnersandmakers.com Instagram: @learnersandmakers YouTube: Learners and MakersOther Episodes You’ll EnjoyFind Hidden Gems Before and During Road Trips - Episode 8How To Make Road Trips More Comfortable and Enjoyable - Episode 7Tips For Road Tripping With Kids - Episode 5 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roadtripready.substack.com

If you've ever felt the pull to hit the road solo—but hesitated because of fear, uncertainty, or not knowing where to begin—this episode is for you.In this episode of Road Trip Ready Podcast, we chat with Beth Binger about the transformative power of solo road trips—especially for people craving more wonder in their lives. We cover:* Why solo road tripping hits different than any other kind of travel* What it means to reclaim wonder—and how the road helps us do it* Common fears that hold solo travelers back—and how to push through them* Tips for staying safe and grounded on your journey* And how traveling solo reminds you of who you really areListen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Any podcast playerThanks for reading Road Trip Ready! Subscribe to receive our new podcast episodes sent right to your inbox!Beth’s Resources* Get Started in 5 Days » The Going Solo Quick Start Guide* Read » There’s Wonder Around the Bend by Beth BingerConnect with Beth Binger Beth Binger is all about equipping and inspiring people to go on solo road trips as a way to restore freedom and wonder to their lives. She has traveled over 60,000 miles across the U.S., Canada, and Europe—most of it with her Golden Retriever, Lexi. Beth’s travels have never been about speed or a checklist. They're about slowing down, focusing on the beauty of Creation, and building a journey that’s completely her own.Through her writing, speaking, and storytelling, Beth inspires people to trade fear for freedom, reminding us that courage and awe are just around the corner. Website: wonderbingtravel.comInstagram: wonderbingtravelYouTube: WonderBingTravel Other Episodes You’ll EnjoyHow to Successfully Road Trip with Pets - Episode 4Find Hidden Gems Before and During Road Trips - Episode 8How To Make Road Trips More Comfortable and Enjoyable - Episode 7Stay Connected with Us💻 Website: roadtripreadypodcast.com📸 Instagram: road_trip_ready This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roadtripready.substack.com

Need a change of pace from the hustle and bustle of Toronto? In this episode of Road Trip Ready, we're taking you beyond the city limits to uncover five incredible destinations — all under a two-hour drive from Toronto, Canada.These small towns and cities deliver big on charm, adventure, and unforgettable experiences. From lakeside ice fishing to wine tasting with a view, we’ve got your next road trip covered.Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Any podcast player🗺️ Featured Destinations:* Stratford, Ontario – Theater, shopping, and Justin Bieber’s hometown* Elora, Ontario – Gorge hikes, historic mills, a luxe spa, and glass art* Buffalo, New York – Jazz, wings, art, and the Upstate Eats Trail* Port Perry, Ontario – Ice fishing, apple fritters, and Old Flame brews* Prince Edward County – Wine tastings, sand dunes, and charcuterie dreams🔗 Resources & Links:* Upstate Eats Trail* Elora Mill Hotel & Spa + Dining* Old Flame Brewing Co.🎧 Other Episodes You’ll Enjoy:Day Trips vs. Weekend Getaways vs. Classic Road Trips - Episode 10 How To Make Road Trips More Enjoyable and Comfortable - Episode 7 🛣️ Quick Takeaway:You don’t need a plane ticket for your next great escape. With scenic drives and unique small-town experiences just a short ride from Toronto, your next road trip is closer than you think. Stay Connected with Us💻 Website: roadtripreadypodcast.com🎥 YouTube: @road_trip_ready 📸 Instagram: @road_trip_ready This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roadtripready.substack.com

Canadian travelers are rethinking their road trips — and U.S. destinations are already feeling the impact.In this eye-opening episode of Road Trip Ready, we veer off our usual path to tackle a pressing issue shaking up North American travel.We sit down with award-winning Canadian travel journalist Charmaine Noronha, who shares what’s fueling the growing anti-U.S. sentiment among Canadian travelers — and how politics, safety concerns, and shifting media coverage are changing where people go (and where they don’t).✨ What we cover:* Why Canadian media outlets are dropping U.S. travel content* The growing fear among everyday travelers* Alternative destinations Canadians are choosing instead— like Mexico and the Dominican Republic* Real stories behind canceled trips — and what they reveal about traveler sentiment* How long this trend might lastListen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Any podcast playerResources Mentioned * AFAR: Canadians Are Boycotting Travel to the U.S., and These Are the Very Real Effects It’s HavingConnect with Charmaine NoronhaCharmaine Noronha is a Toronto-based journalist and travel writer with over 20 years of experience covering global stories. Known for her thoughtful reporting and focus on inclusive travel, as well as multicultural and BIPOC issues, Charmaine brings a nuanced perspective to the intersection of tourism, politics, and culture.Website: charmainenoronha.com Instagram: @charmaine_noronhaThreads: @charmaine_noronhaShop Our Road Trip EssentialsThese are the exact tools and products we keep in our trunk:* Road Trip USA: Cross-Country Adventures on America's Two-Lane Highways* Travel Utensils with Case* Car Seat Headrest Hooks* Magnetic Sunglass Holder* Emergency Roadside Assistance Kit* Digital Tire Pressure Gauge* Portable Air Compressor for Tires* Car Battery Jump Starter🛒 Shop all our favorite Amazon finds for road trippers.Other Episodes You’ll Enjoy How To Find Hidden Gems Before and During Road Trips - Episode 8How To Make Road Trips More Comfortable and Enjoyable - Episode 7 Stay Connected with Us💻 Website: roadtripreadypodcast.com📸 Instagram: @road_trip_ready This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roadtripready.substack.com

Ever thought a road trip had to be a 10-day cross-country extravaganza?Yeah, we did too—until we realized there’s more than one way to roam. 🚗💨This week on Road Trip Ready, we’re busting the myth that road trips have to be big, bold, and exhausting. From quick day escapes to dreamy weekend getaways and epic multi-stop adventures, we're unpacking the differences—so you can plan smarter and travel better.Whether you’re rolling with toddlers, tagging along with grandma, or need a quick reset, this episode will help you figure out which type of road trip fits your vibe and schedule.✨ What we cover: * Why a “real” road trip doesn’t need to be long to be epic. * The 2-hour, 4-hour, and 4+ hour rule that’ll help you choose your adventure.* How to manage expectations before you hit the road (and avoid major letdowns).* Tips to protect your peace (and your wallet) on the go. Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Any podcast player Shop Our Road Trip EssentialsThese are the exact tools and products we keep in our trunk:* Car Seat Headrest Hooks* Magnetic Sunglass Holder * Emergency Roadside Assistance Kit* Digital Tire Pressure Gauge* Portable Air Compressor for Tires* Car Battery Jump Starter🛒 Shop all our favorite Amazon finds for road trippers. Stay Connected with Us💻 Website: roadtripreadypodcast.com 📸 Instagram: @road_trip_readyP.S. Are you Team Day Trip, Weekend Warrior, or Classic Road Tripper? Drop a comment and tell us how you love to hit the road—we love hearing how you travel! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roadtripready.substack.com

Hey, Road Trippers! We are officially back for Season 2 of the Road Trip Ready Podcast! 🎉“The best way to save money on the road is to prepare like you’ll have no access to anything.” — Christopher Rudder Want to hit the road without emptying your wallet? In this episode, we share over 20 practical and proven ways to save money on road trips. We cover:* Why buying snacks before your trip saves you serious cash* How to use apps like GasBuddy to find the cheapest fuel along your route* The real reason you should bring cash* The memberships and credit cards that pay you back for hitting the road* A quick car maintenance checklist that boosts fuel efficiency* Tips for saving on hotels, tolls, parking tickets, and more! This is your reminder that small savings add up, and prepping makes all the difference.Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Any podcast player Shop Our Road Trip Essentials Skip the research — these are the exact tools and products we recommend:* Emergency Roadside Assistance Kit* Digital Tire Pressure Gauge* Portable Air Compressor for Tires* Car Battery Jump Starter* Our Favorite Backpack* Toiletry bag💡 All available on Amazon for fast delivery. Connect with Us💻 Website: roadtripreadypodcast.com 📸 Instagram: @road_trip_readyP.S. Got a favorite road trip money-saving tip? Hit reply or leave a comment. We might feature you in a future episode! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roadtripready.substack.com

We've all felt FOMO when we realize we've missed out on some amazing stops on a road trip. To combat this, we're sharing our top strategies for finding those special, off-the-beaten-path spots that make road trips truly unforgettable.In this episode, we cover:(4:10) Pre-trip planning with tourism boards(5:48) Leveraging blogs for in-depth information(9:03) The value of podcasts in trip planning(13:59) Utilizing YouTube for visual insights(20:23) Facebook groups as planning resources(29:11) Using Google Maps for itinerary planningRead the blog post: https://roadtripreadypodcast.com/planning-a-road-trip-with-stops/ Connect with UsJoin our newsletter: https://newsletter.roadtripreadypodcast.com/Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/roadtripreadyWebsite: https://roadtripreadypodcast.com/Follow on Instagram: @road_trip_readyConnect with Danielle Desir CorbettWebsite: https://thoughtcard.com/The Thought Card Podcast: https://pod.link/1434482532YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thethoughtcardInstagram: @thedanielledesirTwitter: @thethoughtcardConnect with Christopher RudderWebsite: https://roadtripontario.ca/Website: https://rudderlesstravel.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RudderlessMediaInstagram: @road_trip_onHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roadtripready.substack.com

Discomfort is common during road trips, often leading people to avoid them. Today, we'll explore improving road trip comfort by sharing our favorite tips and resources. We discuss what makes road trips enjoyable, including bonding time, the car essentials, and discovering hidden treasures off the beaten path. Additionally, we'll share our personal playbook, like using apps such as GasBuddy to save money on gas and essential memberships for unexpected situations because, let's face it, potholes don't care about your plans.In this episode, we cover:(13:50) Road Trip Planning and Taking Turns(20:46) Road Trip Comfort and Safety(31:10) Road Trip Entertainment(35:29) Road Trip Breaks and Emergency Services(45:48) Additional Road Trip Tips and Hidden GemsRead the blog post: https://roadtripreadypodcast.com/long-distance-drive-tips/ Connect with UsJoin our newsletter: https://newsletter.roadtripreadypodcast.com/Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/roadtripreadyWebsite: https://roadtripreadypodcast.com/Follow on Instagram: @road_trip_readyConnect with Danielle Desir CorbettWebsite: https://thoughtcard.com/The Thought Card Podcast: https://pod.link/1434482532YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thethoughtcardInstagram: @thedanielledesirTwitter: @thethoughtcardConnect with Christopher RudderWebsite: https://roadtripontario.ca/Website: https://rudderlesstravel.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RudderlessMediaInstagram: @road_trip_onHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roadtripready.substack.com

Looking for fun things to do in Manchester, Vermont? From off-roading at the Land Rover Experience to cruising up the Mount Equinox Skyline Drive for breathtaking views, don't miss these hidden gems and unique driving experiences in Vermont. In this episode, we cover: (5:30) Off-roading in Manchester, VT(10:00) Mount Equinox Skyline Drive(16:00) Carthusian monks at the summit(20:00) Tips for descending Mount EquinoxRead the blog post: https://roadtripreadypodcast.com/scenic-drives-in-vermont/Connect with UsJoin our newsletter: https://newsletter.roadtripreadypodcast.com/Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/roadtripreadyWebsite: https://roadtripreadypodcast.com/Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/road_trip_ready/Connect with Danielle Desir CorbettWebsite: https://thoughtcard.com/The Thought Card Podcast: https://pod.link/1434482532YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thethoughtcardInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedanielledesir/Twitter: https://twitter.com/thethoughtcardConnect with Christopher RudderWebsite: https://roadtripontario.ca/Website: https://rudderlesstravel.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RudderlessMediaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/road_trip_on/Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roadtripready.substack.com

Most people envision challenges and stress when it comes to road-tripping with kids. But award-winning travel writer Kevin Wager is here to shatter that perception. Discover how to turn road trips with kids into unforgettable adventures that strengthen family bonds. From infants to teenagers, Kevin discusses the different considerations that come with each age group. Additionally, he shares practical advice like staying organized and addresses the financial aspect of road trips, noting they can be a more budget-friendly alternative to air travel. Leave this episode feeling encouraged about prioritizing travel experiences with your family and making time for adventures, even amidst busy schedules.In this episode, we cover: (4:09) The impact of travel on kids(6:19) Differences in road-tripping with kids of various ages(12:43) Planning kid-friendly road trip stops(15:01) Essential gear for road trips(23:45) Navigating children's schedules and travelRead the blog post: https://roadtripreadypodcast.com/road-tripping-with-kids/ Connect with Kevin Wagar Website: https://wanderingwagars.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/wanderingwagars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wanderingwagars/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/wanderingwagars/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wanderingwagars/Connect with UsJoin our newsletter: https://newsletter.roadtripreadypodcast.com/Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/roadtripreadyWebsite: https://roadtripreadypodcast.com/Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/road_trip_ready/Connect with Danielle Desir CorbettWebsite: https://thoughtcard.com/The Thought Card Podcast: https://pod.link/1434482532YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thethoughtcardInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedanielledesir/Twitter: https://twitter.com/thethoughtcardConnect with Christopher RudderWebsite: https://roadtripontario.ca/Website: https://rudderlesstravel.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RudderlessMediaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/road_trip_on/Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roadtripready.substack.com

Are you planning to take a road trip with your furry friends? Join us as we talk to Britt Kascjak, the owner of The Kas Pack blog and Shed Happens. She is an expert in outdoor travel with pets.Whether this is your first time traveling with your pet or you're an experienced traveler, you'll learn valuable tips on getting ready for the journey and dealing with any anxieties, particularly if you have an older or more energetic pet. Additionally, find out about the necessary equipment and gear you'll need to keep your furry babies healthy and happy throughout your road trip. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roadtripready.substack.com

We explore the deep roots of the women's suffrage movement in Rochester, New York, and its lasting impact on our society. Discover how Susan B. Anthony fought for equity and played a crucial role in securing women's right to vote in the United States. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roadtripready.substack.com

Join us as we dive into the advantages and disadvantages of hitting the open road. We cover everything from freedom and flexibility to the dreaded tolls and traffic. But don't worry; we also provide solutions to overcome these challenges.Whether you're a road trip enthusiast or hesitant to give it a try, this episode will help set your expectations and motivate you to get out the door. So grab your bags, adjust your mirrors, and get road trip ready with us! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roadtripready.substack.com

Welcome to Road Trip Ready! We're Christopher Rudder and Danielle Desir Corbett, roadtrippers who rack up thousands of miles exploring the U.S. and Canada a year.Join us for the first episode of the podcast, where we discuss our love for road trips and the reasons behind starting a travel podcast dedicated to this topic. Not only do we share our personal experiences but also the lasting impact road trips have had on our lives. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roadtripready.substack.com

Welcome to Road Trip Ready! We are so excited you've discovered our road trip podcast!We encourage you to follow the podcast on your favorite podcast player and share it with a friend. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roadtripready.substack.com