California Road Trip: The Essentials  

When people dream of a California road trip they picture big roads, big skies and bountiful sunshine. And that’s actually a pretty accurate description! It’s no wonder that a California road trip makes it onto the bucket lists of people from around the world. And if you actually do it, it’s pretty much like driving through the pages of a glossy travel magazine. But aside from the postcard-perfect image of days spent enjoying your journey around California, what are the practical considerations you need to think about? From the kind of car to hire to parking and refueling, these are the need-to-know aspects of making a California road trip happen without a hitch.

Thanks to the movie industry in and around Los Angeles, California is known as a place that’s full of sun and movie stars, and there have been many iconic movies that have inspired people to take road trips around the state. California’s landscapes have served as the backdrop for more films than you could count, featuring the state’s rich natural beauty and top tourist destinations. Films like Sideways explore the rolling vineyards of California’s wine country, offering a look at what the state has to offer beyond its urban centers. The move La La Land takes a different angle and captures the essence of Los Angeles from the busy streets of Hollywood to the serene Griffith Observatory, spotlighting the city’s culture and famous sunsets. Meanwhile, the rugged coastline and expansive forests of Northern California are immortalized in cinematic classics such as Vertigo and The Lost Boys, providing a glimpse of the beautiful natural landscapes that define the state. These films not only highlight the diverse landscapes of the Golden State but have also played a significant role in inspiring travelers to actually step out of the theater and take a road trip through California for themself. 

So you’ve watched enough movies to feel like California is where you want to take your next road trip, but what do you actually need to do to make it happen? 

Hiring a Car in California

The key to a successful California road trip lies in finding the perfect vehicle for your trip. The process is relatively straightforward, with numerous rental agencies located at airports and in major cities across the state. It’s advisable to book your car in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure you get the best rates and that they actually have a car when you show up. 

When considering the type of car you’ll get, think about where you’re going. If you’re planning to stick to the cities and well-paved scenic routes, a standard sedan should suffice. However, for those looking to explore more off the beaten track places like Yosemite National Park or the coastal roads along Big Sur, an SUV might be better. Not only does an SUV offer more comfort and space, but it also provides the added capability for less predictable road and weather conditions. Remember, the choice of car can significantly impact your road trip experience, so consider the balance between costs, comfort, and practicality.

Additionally, ensure your rental agreement includes unlimited mileage and check the policies on interstate travel if you plan to cross state lines, as some car rental companies charge an additional fee for traveling to other states while others ban it outright. Make sure you have some coverage for unexpected incidents too, such as accidents or breakdowns. If you need to track down a San Diego auto repair garage at short notice or you need to be towed, find out how this will work with your rental agreement or insurance.

Becoming a California Driver for a While

Adapting to the driving culture is essential anywhere you travel, and California is no different. Learning Californian driving culture is going to be an essential part of your trip, and it will involve understanding not only the basic rules of the road but also the unique driving habits, parking nuances, and refueling practices in the state. 

Parking in California can also vary greatly depending on your location. In big cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, finding street parking can be a challenge and parking fees can be steep. Research parking options in advance or use apps that help locate and even reserve parking spots. Also take care to read parking signs, as you don’t want to return to your car and find a ticket on the windshield or, even worse, it being loaded onto the back of a tow truck. There are also some parking rules that you may not be familiar with, such as in some residential areas there are restrictions about parking in front of people’s homes and in some urban areas you can’t park near street crossings or junctions. However, the more rural areas and national parks offer ample parking, though it’s always wise to arrive early during peak tourist seasons to secure a spot.

Refueling your vehicle is straightforward, with numerous gas stations available across the state. The prices for gasoline can fluctuate significantly depending on the area, so it might be worth filling up in larger cities before hitting more remote areas where prices can be higher. Also, note that in California, gas is self-served, and you’ll likely need to pay at the pump using a credit or debit card.

When it comes to traffic, some parts of California are infamous for their congestion, particularly in and around major cities. The Los Angeles area, for instance, can experience heavy traffic at almost any time of day but is particularly congested during rush hour. So planning your travel times to avoid the busiest hours can save you a great deal of time and frustration.

Understanding the driving habits of locals can also help you blend in and travel safely. Californians are known for their fast-paced driving on highways, with speeds often exceeding the posted limits. It’s also common for drivers to switch lanes frequently in heavy traffic, sometimes without signaling first. So always stay alert, use your turn signals for every lane change, and keep a safe distance from the car in front of you. Don’t be tempted to break the rules just because the locals are!

A road trip in California is something you definitely won’t regret doing. Experience the famous coastal cities and also the interior regions of the state that you may be less familiar with from the movies. The scenery is totally incredible and, as cliched as it sounds, you have to see it to believe it. Having your own set of wheels will give you the freedom to define exactly the kind of California trip you want to have.