Travel Resources & Tools
Everything you need for successful highway travel. From trip calculators to downloadable checklists, these free resources help you plan smarter and travel safer.
Interactive Calculators
Fuel Cost Calculator
Estimate your fuel costs for your upcoming trip.
Want to measure the straight-line distance and compass bearing between two points? Try the calculator in Distance, Bearing, and Position on a Sphere.
Downloadable Checklists
Print these comprehensive checklists to ensure you never forget the essentials.
Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection Checklist
- Tire pressure and tread depth
- Oil and fluid levels
- Brake system check
- Lights and signals
- Emergency kit items
Road Trip Packing Checklist
- Clothing and toiletries
- Entertainment and devices
- Food and beverages
- Important documents
- First aid supplies
Family Road Trip Essentials
- Kid-friendly snacks and drinks
- Entertainment for all ages
- Comfort items and games
- Safety equipment
- Activity and coloring books
Emergency Roadside Kit
- Jumper cables or jump starter
- Spare tire and tools
- First aid kit
- Emergency flares
- Flashlight and batteries
Quick Reference Tips
Fuel Efficiency Tips
- Maintain steady speed using cruise control
- Keep tires properly inflated
- Remove unnecessary weight and cargo
- Avoid excessive idling
- Use the recommended grade of motor oil
Best Times to Travel
- Avoid urban areas during rush hour (7-9 AM, 4-7 PM)
- Start early morning (5-6 AM) for less traffic
- Travel mid-week (Tuesday-Thursday) when possible
- Avoid holiday weekends for major routes
- Check traffic apps before departure
Money-Saving Strategies
- Fill up at exits with multiple gas stations
- Pack snacks and drinks in a cooler
- Join loyalty programs for hotels and gas
- Travel during off-peak seasons
- Use apps to find the best gas prices
Safety Essentials
- Take breaks every 2 hours or 100 miles
- Share your itinerary with someone
- Keep emergency kit easily accessible
- Monitor weather along entire route
- Never drive when drowsy
Recommended Apps & Tools
Exit Explorer
Navigation & Planning
Find gas stations, restaurants, hotels, and services at upcoming highway exits in real-time. Plan your stops before you need them.
GasBuddy
Fuel Prices
Real-time gas prices at stations along your route. Save money by finding the cheapest fuel before you exit.
Waze
Navigation & Traffic
Community-powered traffic and navigation app with real-time alerts for accidents, hazards, police, and road conditions.
PlugShare
EV Charging
Comprehensive EV charging station locator with real-time availability, user reviews, and photos of charging locations.
Roadtrippers
Route Planning
Discover interesting stops, attractions, and detours along your route. Plan memorable road trips with built-in mapping.
Weather Underground
Weather
Hyperlocal weather forecasts and radar. Monitor conditions along your entire route, not just your destination.
Emergency Resources
Important Numbers
- Emergency: 911
- Highway Patrol: *HP or *47 (varies by state)
- Roadside Assistance: Keep your provider's number saved
- Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
Breakdown Procedures
- Move vehicle as far right as safely possible
- Turn on hazard lights
- Stay in vehicle with seatbelt on
- Call for help (911 or roadside assistance)
- Only exit vehicle if absolutely safe to do so
Accident Response
- Check for injuries call 911 if needed
- Move to safety if vehicles are drivable
- Turn on hazard lights
- Exchange information with other drivers
- Document scene with photos
- File police report as required
State Highway Patrol
Most states use *HP (*47) to reach highway patrol from mobile phones. Save your route's state patrol numbers before departure.