For many people, the classic American road trip is a rite of passage.

The 48 states on the continental U.S. are home to rolling hills, mountains, rivers, oceans and countless other attractions. And thanks to modern technology, planning the perfect road trip is easier than ever.

Just juice up your phone, make sure your car is ready to roll, grab your go-to road snacks, and let your smartphone do the hard work.  

Apps, like Roadtrippers or InRoute, can do most of the route planning for you.

Begin by inputting your starting and ending point, then let it suggest fun places to check out, whether you're taking the direct route via the highways or the winding roads less traveled.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Watch this video to learn more about some of the apps you need for your next road trip.  

Roadtrip essentials

A good road trip needs these three things: Good snacks, an excellent playlist, and plenty of gas. 

If you’re driving through an unfamiliar area, fill up your gas tank sooner rather than later to reduce the risk of getting stranded on empty.

Check out these apps to keep your car juiced up along the route: 

• Gas Buddy  

Gas Buddy helps you find gas stations near you and tells you how much the gas costs. 

Prices are put in by other users, so there is a chance prices may have changed by the time you arrive. If that happens, you can report the price change in the app. 

• PlugShare

PlugShare helps you locate EV charging stations that are compatible with a variety of electric vehicles. 

And just in case you need it, because you almost certainly will, Toilet Finder can help you find a nearby facility to take a comfort break.

The app also tells you if the toilet can be used without charge and if it's wheelchair accessible. 

Taking a road trip with a pet

If your copilot has fur and paws, BringFido will help you find dog-friendly places to stay, eat, visit, and more. 

It even includes reviews from other users to help you make the best decision for you and your pet. 

On the road again

By the way, before you hit play and take the wide-open road, download your car insurance app on your phone.

Hopefully, you won’t need it, but it can make it much easier to file a claim or call for roadside assistance. 

Reviewed-approved car recommendations 

Purchases you make through our links may earn us and our publishing partners a commission. 

Reviewed helps you find the best stuff and get the most out of what you already own. Our team of experts test everything from waterproof speakers to air purifiers so you can shop for the best of the best. 

• Customer-loved portable car vacuum:ThisWorx Car Vacuum Cleaner 
• Durable phone car holders: Beam Electronics Phone Holder 
• A clutch jump-start box: NOCO Boost Plus GB40 1000 Amp UltraSafe Lithium Jump Starter Box 
• This well-reviewed dash cam: RedTiger Dash Cam 
• A handy USB C charger: Anker USB C Car Charger 

More problems, solved

• Breeze through security:6 tips to quickly get through airport security
• Expand workspace: Transform your iPad into a second monitor
• Pre-travel checklist: 4 things you need to do before your next trip
• Fly easier:4 travel tips to make flying easier
• Get inspired: 3 tips to plan your next trip using social media
• Be prepared: 3 travel apps to download before your next trip
• Carry on: 5 tips to travel safely with your tech like phones and laptops
• Easily get around: 4 tech tips to easily explore a new city
• Stream offline:How to watch TV shows, movies offline
• Speak in any language:5 ways to use Google Translate on your phone