Two teenagers on a cross-country road-trip. Any suggestions?

Question

Me and my friend, both 16, almost 17, are planning on taking a road trip to California this June to go surfing.

We've done the math and will need about 700 dollars for gas, food, etc., so we're going to aim for 1000 just in case. We plan on sleeping in the back of the van at rest stops.

I think we've got everything covered, but any suggestions/warnings?

We're starting in Worcester, MA

Answer 1

My friend and I have gone on two road trips, one down the the entire east coast and up the appalachian trail and the other from nj out to south dakota and back a more southern route.
my biggest suggestion to save money is buy a lot of snacks before hand, this will make you less likely to stop and buy a lot of food in restaurants...things like granola bars, crackers, nuts, trail mix type stuff...things that you can eat with your hands and fill you up. also, you should have a gas can filled with gas in your trunk at all times in case you get lost and have no where to stop for gas TRUST ME on this one...there are 2 occasions where the gas light was on and we were EXTREMLY lucky to find a gas station. also, if you have one of those emergency kits, thats good to have too, with tire patch, road flares, flashlight, blanket, etc. Also, since you are staying at rest stops which are generally shady places, choose the ones that have the restaurant places in them, where there are alot of people coming and going, not the plain truck stops, alot less likely are things to happen when the public is around, also, park under the lights, it may suck to sleep at first but no one will mess with you if yur in bright light as opposed to the far end of the parking lot in the dark
GOOD LUCK
also, a little tip we have enjoyed both times, dont eat at fast food places or chain restaurants, find little ma and pop places, people are much friendlier, the foods generally cheaper and its places you cant experience at home, plus if your looking for things to do, thats where all the locals are, theyll tell you wahts around

Answer 2

Depends on which California beach you are going to. I've been to Huntington Beach the most because its closest to me, and it is nothing special, if anything its ugly because there are all these oil rigs so close to the shore, its almost sickening. Although I haven't been to Venice Beach, I would suggest going there, its pretty popular and heavily packed with people and has a lot more to offer. Or you could try going to a beach in San Diego, either would be fine in my opinion. Since your trip isn't till June, I would suggest reading your car manual and know some basic knowledge about how to fix your car in case you get a flat, etc. Also, since you guys are pretty young, avoid speeding, there is no rush, especially if you haven't got the experience. Make sure you guys get plenty of sleep before driving, and split the driving up, if both of you can drive. Also, I think it is illegal to sleep in your car, but I think you are too young for any hotels/motels to allow you to rent a room, so make sure you cover your windows so no one will see. If it was me, I would bring a lot more money, but just be careful not to carry all the moeny with you at all times, put some hidden inside your car for safekeeping. Otherwise, be safe and have fun.

Answer 3

Although it's fun to eat fast food, doing it for the whole drive WILL make you have to use rest stop bathrooms, so try to space it out. Drink a fair amount of water, not sodas. Don't forget CDs or casettes, LOTS of them. Maybe an audio book. And leave earlier than you intend to, it's always fun to pull over at interesting stops that you didn't even know about until you pass the signs :]

Answer 4

Sounds like fun. I've found that it's easiest to do all the important planning (major expenses, things like that) and then just take the rest in stride. If you see something you like on the way, stop. Don't let something like a plan take away from your fun.

Have a good time and be careful.

Answer 5

Oh boy, lucky you! Why not? Enjoy the trip and see America cross-country. It must be an experience of a lifetime!