tips for a top texas road trip

February 25, 2026

 caravan sonnet- rebecca vandemark

The thing you need to know about Texas is that everything feels bigger there, and that includes the road trips. The highways are wide open, there are tons of small towns filled with big character, big cities packed with culture, and landscapes that change from desert to coastline faster than you would think possible. So, it’s fair to say that if you are planning a Texan road trip, a little prep goes a long way…

Map out the must-see stops
Texas is so huge that you really should take soem time to narrow down your route and work out what you really want to see. Are you chasing live music in Austin, historic sites in San Antonio, or wide open desert views in West Texas?

Big Bend National Park offers dramatic scenery and quiet stretches of road that feel almost cinematic. The Texas Hill Country brings rolling landscapes, wineries, and charming small towns. Along the Gulf Coast, you will find beaches and fresh seafood that make for relaxed afternoons.

Pick a few anchor stops and build your route around them.

Embrace the small towns
The big lights of Austin and Houston might be pulling you in, but if you want to experience an authentic slice of Texas, then the small towns are really where it’s at, and the best memories really are made off the highway. So, be sure to stop for local diners, independent shops, and roadside attractions that feel slightly unexpected.

These places often move at a slower pace. That is part of the charm. Give yourself time to wander without rushing back to the car.

You might just discover a hidden gem you would have missed otherwise.

Pack for changing conditions
Texas weather can be pretty unpredictable, and it really can shift on a dime, so it is a good idea to pack bearing in mind that it could be sunny one day and wet and windy the next. Layers work well for this kind of road trip.

You should also be sure to pack plenty of water, especially if you are hitting the state parks or rural areas, and sunscreen is non-negotiable too. Comfortable shoes would also be sensible if you plant o ditch the car and explore the wilds of Texas.

Plan plenty of stops
Texas is huge, and that means you often have to drive very long distances to get from one attraction to the next, and that means you can get pretty tired on your Texas road trip. So, it is really important that you plan lots of rest stops. Luckily, Texas has lots of great infrastructure for ross trippers, whether it’s tiny diners where you can get a snack and a sit-down or one of the many great Texas RV Parks where you can spend the night in wonderful wilderness surroundings. 

Texas is a wonderful place to explore by road…as long as you are prepared for it. So head out there, have fun, and remember to make memories. Oh, and do try the Tex-Mex food!


*contributed post*


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