I think of fall as nature’s big finale before winter, and there’s no better way to see it than by hitting the road on a fall road trip. Rolling hills painted gold, crisp mornings that call for cozy sweaters, and roadside pumpkin stands – what’s not to love?
Whether you’re cruising for a day or taking a multi-state leaf-chasing adventure, these 30 tips will help you make the most of your autumn road trip.
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Before You Leave
1. Map your route around peak colors
Check foliage maps to time your drive just right. Peak fall colors depend on a mix of factors – temperature, rainfall, elevation, and even the type of trees in an area – but online foliage trackers and local parks or tourism boards are good places to find out what’s happening in your area.
2. Plan scenic stops
Use online maps to look for parks, overlooks, lakes or small towns worth exploring. Half the fun is discovering places you didn’t plan on.
3. Book accommodations early
Fall foliage season can be surprisingly busy. Even tiny towns can sell out their one cozy inn. Once you’ve planned out your route, book your hotel room as soon as you can.
4. Prep your car
Check tires and brakes, fluids, and wiper blades before you go. The prettiest view won’t matter if you’re stranded on the roadside.
5. Download offline maps
Mountain roads and rural routes can be signal-free zones. Offline maps are your best friend when GPS gives up.
Packing Essentials
6. Dress in layers
Morning chill and midday sun can bring fast temperature swings. A light jacket can be a lifesaver when the sun dips.
7. Bring a reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated even in cool weather, especially if you’ll be stopping and walking frequently. Cider and coffee are great, but water keeps you going.
8. Snacks, always
Have some trail mix, apples, or pumpkin bread on hand for road-trip fuel between meal stops. Hunger plus traffic is a dangerous combo.
9. Pack a small cooler
For keeping drinks cold and fruit fresh. It also makes roadside picnic stops extra easy.
10. Include a blanket
For impromptu picnics, sunset watching, or keeping cozy. A plaid blanket makes for bonus Instagram fall photos.
Photography & Memories
11. Keep your camera accessible
You never know around which corner the perfect scene will appear. You’re going to miss the shot if you’re digging around in the back or the trunk.
12. Bring extra batteries
Cold temps can drain them faster than usual. Better to carry two on your autumn road trip than run out mid-photo-op.
13. Take both wide and detail shots
Capture landscapes and little moments. The bark of a tree or steam from a mug can tell the story just as well.
14. Document the journey, not just the destination
Snap road signs, coffee stops, and quirky towns. These moments give your trip photos personality.
15. Use golden hours to your advantage
Sunrise and sunset light make colors pop. Even a simple road looks cinematic when the light is low. Here are 25 additional tips for fall photography.
Driving & Safety
16. Start early to beat crowds
Less traffic means more peaceful drives. You’ll also catch morning mist in valleys and forests that makes for great photos.
17. Watch for wildlife
Fall is an active time for deer, squirrels and other wild animals crossing roads. Slowing down can save both your trip and the wildlife.
18. Avoid rushing
The point is to enjoy the drive, not race to the next stop. Don’t plan every moment. Leave room for unplanned detours.
19. Fill up when you can
Rural gas stations can be rare in some areas. You’ll thank yourself when you don’t see the “low fuel” light.
20. Know local road conditions
Leaves, rain, and frost can make roads slick. Knowing what to expect helps keep your trip stress-free.
Fall-Themed Fun
21. Visit a pumpkin patch or apple orchard
It’s peak harvest season, plus fresh donuts and cider are basically road trip fuel. Here’s 15 Pumpkin Patch Tips for the Perfect Fall Visit, plus 21 Apple Picking Tips for the Perfect Fall Day at the Orchard.
22. Stop at small-town festivals
Fall events are everywhere this time of year. Live music, craft booths, amusement rides and pie competitions are more enjoyable when you’re not melting.
23. Try regional seasonal foods
Be open to trying new delicious foods – pumpkin ravioli in one town, maple donuts in another. Your taste buds should enjoy the trip too.
24. Collect souvenirs
Postcards, pretty rocks, or a jar of local honey – pick something you love. They make great memory triggers when you’re back home.
25. Bring along a road trip playlist
Mix classics with some cozy autumn vibes. Nothing like hearing your favorite song as you crest a hill of golden trees.
Making the Most of the Trip
26. Be flexible with timing
Chasing light or stopping for a photo is worth it. Don’t stress – some of the best moments are unplanned.
27. Engage with locals
Ask about the best view in town. They often know hidden gems not listed online.
28. Take breaks often
Stretch your legs, breathe the crisp air, and enjoy the scenery. It’s better for your body and your photos.
29. Journal your trip
Even just a few notes at night help capture memories. You’ll forget the little details faster than you think.
30. End with a “last stop” tradition
Maybe it’s pie, a scenic overlook, or one last roadside stand. It’s the perfect way to wrap your fall adventure and start planning the next one.
When the miles are behind you and the last golden leaves have fallen, you’ll remember more than just the views – you’ll remember the feeling of freedom, the laughter in the car, and the way the world seemed to slow down for just a little while.
A fall road trip is about savoring the season before it slips away, and collecting not just photos, but stories you’ll tell for years. So grab your map, your playlist, and maybe a slice of pumpkin pie for the road, and head out to find your own stretch of autumn magic.
Looking for more fun fall activities for your fall bucket list? Read the 2025 Autumn Bucket List That Keeps FOMO Away
More fall fun tips and ideas:
- 25 Fall Photo Tips for Autumn Hikes: Capture the Magic
- 21 Tips for Fall Hiking for People Who Love Autumn
- Apple Picking Tips for the Perfect Fall Day at the Orchard
- 25 Fall Porch Ideas That Will Make Your Neighbors Jealous
- 15 Pumpkin Patch Tips for the Perfect Fall Visit
- 21 Tips to Make Carving Pumpkins Easier (and More Fun!)
- 37 Easy & Cheap DIY Halloween Home Decor Ideas