Open roads. Big skies. Let's go.
Hill Country highways. Desert sunsets. Coastal detours and roadside barbecue. Here's your guide to planning a Texas road trip worth taking, from the first mile to the last pit stop.
Sometimes the best plans
start with a full tank.
Texas is big. Really big. Which means your next favorite weekend might be hiding a few hours down the highway.
From winding Hill Country roads to wide-open West Texas landscapes, there's plenty to see between here and wherever you're headed.
So grab your sunglasses, pick a playlist and make room for snacks. We're going places.
Six Texas road trips worth taking.
Mountains, beaches, barbecue and small-town charm. Whatever kind of trip you're craving, Texas probably has a road for it.
Austin to Fredericksburg
Take the scenic route through rolling hills and small towns. Explore Fredericksburg, browse local shops and consider a stop at Enchanted Rock.
Marfa to Big Bend
Think desert landscapes, mountain views and enormous night skies. Plan ahead for long distances, limited services and changing weather.
Houston to Galveston
Trade the city for salty air. Spend time along the seawall, explore historic neighborhoods and enjoy a coastal weekend.
Amarillo to Palo Duro Canyon
Head toward dramatic canyon scenery and hiking trails. Check park conditions and reserve ahead if you plan to camp.
Jefferson to Caddo Lake
Historic streets, towering cypress trees and peaceful waterways. A great option for travelers who prefer slower mornings and scenic afternoons.
San Antonio to New Braunfels
Explore historic San Antonio, then head toward New Braunfels for river recreation, local restaurants and a relaxed weekend.
Our favorite road-trip rule?
Leave room for the unexpected stop. The tiny bakery, the scenic overlook and the roadside barbecue joint might become the best part of your trip.
Give your car a little attention.
A road trip is much more enjoyable when your car is ready for the miles ahead.
Inspect tire pressure, tread and visible damage. Don't forget the spare if your vehicle has one.
Review oil, coolant, windshield washer fluid and any maintenance your vehicle is due for.
Make sure everything works before you encounter a sudden Texas thunderstorm.
Bring water, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, a phone charger and other essentials for your route.
Check whether you already have towing or roadside assistance through your insurance, vehicle manufacturer or another service.
That next gas station?
It might be a while.
Driving across Texas means everything from busy urban highways to remote desert roads. Your planning should change with your route.
Plan your fuel stops.
Particularly in West Texas, don't assume the next town has an open gas station. Fill up before long remote stretches.
Download offline maps.
Cell service can be unreliable in remote areas. Download your route and save important addresses before you leave.
Share your itinerary.
Let someone know your route, overnight stops and expected arrival, especially when traveling through remote regions.
Give yourself extra time.
Plan breaks for meals, rest and sightseeing. If you're getting tired, stop driving and rest.
Snacks? Obviously. What else?
The perfect road-trip bag is part practical, part personal and at least a little snack-heavy.
Keep these close.
Driver's license, vehicle registration, insurance information, phone charger, medications and drinking water.
Make the miles easier.
Sunglasses, comfortable clothes, a light jacket, reusable water bottles and your favorite playlist.
Hopefully untouched.
First-aid supplies, a flashlight, basic emergency equipment and extra water, especially for remote routes.
It's a vacation, after all.
A camera, picnic supplies, hiking shoes and enough room in the trunk for souvenirs.
Texas weather likes to keep things interesting.
The weather can look very different at the beginning and end of a long Texas road trip. Check conditions along your entire route.
Don't underestimate it.
Carry extra water, check your cooling system and avoid leaving people or pets in parked vehicles.
Watch the radar.
Thunderstorms can bring heavy rain, hail and dangerous driving conditions. Delay travel when necessary.
Turn around. Don't drown.
Never drive through flooded roadways. Water depth and road damage can be difficult to judge.
Ice changes everything.
Bridges and elevated roads can become hazardous during freezing conditions. Check road alerts before setting out.
Check the roads before you go.
Texas Department of Transportation's DriveTexas website provides information on road conditions, closures and construction.
Take the detour. Find the good barbecue.
A Texas road trip doesn't have to be a race to your destination. Make time for the places in between.
Stretch your legs somewhere beautiful.
Add a hiking trail, scenic overlook or picnic stop to your route. Reserve entry when required.
Slow down a little.
Explore historic main streets, local shops, independent cafes and the occasional unexpected museum.
Yes, this deserves its own stop.
Roadside barbecue, breakfast tacos, small-town bakeries and local specialties make excellent additions to any itinerary.
Pull over for the view.
Plan safe stops at designated overlooks and scenic areas. Never stop in an unsafe location for a photograph.
Oh yeah.
Insurance.
You've checked the tires, planned the route and packed enough snacks to cross the entire state.
Before you hit the highway, make sure your auto insurance is ready for the journey too.
Check your auto coverage.
Review your liability limits, collision and comprehensive coverage, deductibles and roadside assistance.
Taking an RV or camper?
Your coverage needs may change depending on your vehicle, trailer and how you use them.
Renting a car?
Check how your existing insurance applies to rental vehicles before declining or purchasing additional protection.
Hey Charley is independent, so we can help you compare available insurance options and review coverage before your next adventure.
Pack your bags.
Let's check your coverage.
Planning a Texas road trip? Taking the RV out for the weekend? Just want to make sure your auto insurance still fits? Let Charley take a look.
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