The best road trips to take this winter

Going on a road trip in the winter along picturesque byways is a thrilling experience, both because of the breathtaking scenery and good driving skills. You can prepare for the latter and the former alone is enough of a reason to not barricade yourself at home.

Heat up the car and hit the road. Recruit a few friends, pack an extra jacket and fill up the gas tank. Change your winter environment and go on an exciting vacation. Also, make the most of the affordable gas prices.

You have plenty of exhilarating options that don’t include crowded routes. The winter can be the perfect time to go on a drive around the country because many people stay home and go skiing in the mountains, which means (mostly) open roads. Imagine clear highways, fresh air, lots of sunshine, powder snow covering red rocks…

It’s crucial to remember that while the scenery is majestic, the driving conditions are more dangerous. Stock up the trunk with flashlights, batteries, blankets, snacks, water, gloves, boots, and a first-aid kit. Get your car checked and make sure it’s in good condition for winter roads. A winter travel safety kit also includes a cell phone, an ice scraper and brush, a tow rope, a candle, matches, and a portable weather radio.

You can save money while traveling in more than one way. Depending on how long you plan to be on the road, buy only one kind of snack at each stop. Bonus: You and your passengers will not overeat. When you feel like having a real meal, go to local diners as opposed to a restaurant or stop at a supermarket and buy some of their ready-made sandwiches.

New York to Pennsylvania

Go on a magnificent 7-day 348-mile long drive through nature. You can go skiing on your way, enjoy the view of forests (possibly covered in snow), or ice-skate on a frozen pond. Visit the Norman Rockwell countryside. Get on Route 6 if you want access to 19 state parks, six forests and the Allegheny National Forest, along with the state's own Grand Canyon.

Las Vegas to Zion National Park, Utah

Fly to Las Vegas, have some fun there for a night or two and rent a car going to the park. It’s just about 240 miles in one direction. Spend about a week driving through the desert to reach the high cliffs of Zion, Utah's First National Park. While you’re there, visit the Bryce Canyon National Park and see how hoodoos and forests are mixed together.

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