Nothing matches the vibe of family travel, and Americans love the idea more than you imagine. According to the 2023 US Family travel survey, 81% of parents shared their intention to travel with their kids in 2024. That’s more than 8 in 10 parents with travel plans. Moreover, many families expected to spend more on travel during this time. 

When it comes to the mode of travel, road trips are acclaimed as family trips. They offer flexibility, privacy, and affordability. Even families looking to splurge on luxury vacations are more than keen to hit the road. Weekend trips are popular as they let busy parents plan short getaways with their children. 

A luxurious weekend road trip with your family packs adventure, comfort, and quality time. That’s a rare combination, right? However, the idea of having just a couple of days and spending much of them on the road might not sound great. 

Worry not because with thoughtful planning, you can ensure every moment is memorable, from the scenic routes to the plush accommodations. In this article, we will share a few actionable tips for the ultimate family getaway this weekend.

Create a Tentative Budget

According to Investopedia, road trips have become expensive over the years. A hypothetical road trip across the US, from New York to Los Angeles, costs nearly 20% more in 2024 than in 2019. Even if you are not planning a cross-country trip and just embarking on a weekend journey, budget matters.

Remember that luxury doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank. A realistic and well-structured budget can help you make the most of every dollar. Begin by estimating your major expenses, such as fuel, lodging, food, attractions, and activities. Be prepared for unexpected costs such as sudden breakdowns and spontaneous splurges. 

Smart planning with apps like GasBuddy to check current prices along your route is a good idea. For plush accommodations, consider options like upscale hotels, boutique inns, or luxury vacation rentals. Prices can vary widely, and booking in advance can help you get the best deals.

Expect to spend around  $500 per day for a family for a typical luxury road trip budget. That’s not a huge price for a wonderful time with your loved ones!

Choose Your Route Wisely

The Lonely Planet’s list of the best family-friendly road trips is a long one. It includes popular options such as the Pacific Coast Highway, Route 66, Blue Ridge Parkway, Badlands–Black Hills Loop, and Florida Highway. A weekend trip, however, means that you may not have these options. 

Choosing a route wisely, therefore, is important. You can splurge on the tour, but limited time means you need to look for routes closer to home. Get input from all members to ensure everyone’s interests are considered, such as nearby beaches, mountains, cities, or cultural hotspots.

Opt for routes known for their beauty. You can drive through coastal highways, mountain passes, or countryside trails. These enhance the journey and provide plenty of photo opportunities. Identify interesting towns, landmarks, or luxury experiences along the way. At the same time, keep your daily drives manageable, especially with children. Plan for breaks to stretch, snack, and explore. 

Avoid Rushing Things

A luxury trip is about savoring the experience, not racing to your destination. Moreover, safety is non-negotiable when it comes to road trips. Driving too fast or breaking the rules just to save time is the worst mistake you can make. Similarly, you may end up overlooking a negligent driver, and face an accident just because you did not maintain a safe distance. 

In early May, a crash on I-90 East in Cleveland caused chaos on the highway, as reported by 19 News. The accident sent debris in both directions, leading to the closure of the highway. While victims can get help after a Cleveland car accident, it is best to avoid such mishaps. 

Piscitelli Law Firm notes that Ohio follows a comparative negligence rule, which means victims can claim compensation if their fault is less than 50%. For families on road trips, this is a wake-up call highlighting the importance of safe driving and not rushing.

Besides being cautious on the road, you must create a flexible itinerary. Allow extra time for each segment. Focus on a few high-quality experiences rather than packing your schedule. 

Pack Light

Overpacking can clutter your boot space and complicate your trip. Even when planning a luxury holiday, you do not need to overload your car. Prepare a checklist of essentials based on your requirements. 

For example, you will need a car seat, stroller, and diapers if traveling with young children. Healthy snacks, water bottles, and a cooler for refreshments are must-haves. Pack weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and hats. Of course, you want to look good for the pictures, but consider mix-and-match styling.

Carry chargers for devices, hand sanitizer, and personal care items. Also, have both cash and cards for convenience. Leave bulky or non-essential items at home. Most luxury accommodations provide amenities like toiletries, robes, and hairdryers.

FAQs

Which trip is best for the family?

The best family road trip is one that matches your interests, travel style, and children’s ages. National parks, beach resorts, and theme parks are perennial favorites for American families. You can even plan a camping adventure if you are a nature-loving family. Luxury lovers prefer vacations at posh resorts. 

What is the most basic rule of road trips?

The most basic rule is to be prepared but flexible, whether planning a weekend getaway or a cross-country road trip. Plan your route and accommodations, pack essentials, and budget wisely. At the same time, be ready to adapt to changes. The journey should be enjoyable, not stressful.

What not to bring on a road trip?

The rule of thumb for road trip packing is to avoid overpacking. Don’t bring anything that you won’t need because car spaces get scraped easily. Skip excessive clothing or shoes, bulky gadgets, and too many toys or entertainment items. Also, avoid carrying valuables you don’t need and perishable foods that can spoil quickly.

A luxurious weekend road trip with your family is all about thoughtful planning and shared experiences. Safety and comfort should be on top of your mind. Most importantly, savor the journey and the time spent together. With the right mindset, you will return home with memories to cherish for years to come even after being on the road for a weekend.