Summer Adventures: Road Trip Tips to Festivals and Concerts

Article overview

1. Plan Ahead - Organize your itinerary and book accommodations well in advance for a stress-free trip.
2. Choose the Right Vehicle - Select a reliable and comfortable vehicle suitable for long journeys.
3. Pack Efficiently - Make a checklist to ensure you bring essentials without overpacking.
4. Budget Wisely - Set a travel budget and stick to it by planning expenses carefully.
5. Fuel Up Smartly - Use apps to find the best gas prices or take advantage of fuel rewards programs.
6. Make the Most of Rest Stops - Plan rest stops to refresh and stretch during your drive.
7. Stay Safe - Prioritize safety by taking breaks, avoiding distractions and adhering to traffic laws.

Planning a road trip to a festival or concert can be just as exciting as the event itself. With the right preparation, you can make your trip smooth, enjoyable and budget-friendly. Here are some essential tips, plus exclusive AAA Member benefits and discounts, to help make your road trip a success. 

1. Plan your route

Before hitting the road, map out your route to the festival or concert venue. Use tools like the AAA Mobile app, TripTik or Trip Canvas for personalized insights, alternate routes and traffic updates. These tools ensure you find the fastest or most scenic routes while avoiding road closures or construction. 

2. Pack wisely

Pack all the essentials, including comfortable clothing, snacks, water and portable chargers. Festivalgoers should bring sunscreen, a rain poncho and a lightweight blanket for comfort. Double-check that you have your tickets, ID and parking passes.

Need supplies? Shop for everything you need through the AAA Dollars Online Mall to earn rewards while you prepare. 

3. Budget for costs

Road trips can get pricey, but AAA Members can stay on budget with exclusive perks. Save on fuel purchases at Shell and accommodations by using AAA discounts on hotels, car rentals and even concert tickets. Look for AAA Diamond Designation hotels and restaurants to ensure high-quality options along your route. You can also purchase gift cards through AAA Gift Card Center for cash back and to avoid overspending during your trip. 

4. Prep your vehicle

Ensure your car is road-trip ready. Visit a AAA-owned Car Care Center or AAA Approved Auto Repair Facility for services like oil changes, tire rotations and new wipers. Stock up on maintenance supplies like jumper cables and first-aid kits from NAPA Auto Parts, where AAA Members get discounts. On the road, stop at Love's Travel Stops for gas, snacks, rest, showers and even a spot for your dog to stretch its legs. 

5. Stay entertained

Long drives can get dull, so plan entertainment to keep everyone engaged. Create a playlist of your favorite festival artists, download podcasts or audiobooks or try road trip games with friends. AAA Members can also use Trip Canvas to discover fun stops and attractions along the way. 

Plug in...

Check out our travel agent-curated summer road trip playlist, perfect for keeping the energy up through your whole drive.

6. Arrive early

Festivals and concerts draw big crowds, so aim to arrive early to secure parking and avoid stress. This gives you time to explore the venue and familiarize yourself with the layout before the fun begins.

Did you know? AAA Tickets also has parking passes available at a discount for AAA Members. 

7. Stay safe

Safety should always come first. Take breaks to rest if you're driving long distances, and rotate drivers frequently. Avoid distractions like texting while driving, and follow speed limits and road conditions.