When calculating driving distances per day, it is important to consider the question: how far to drive? This is a largely personal question, as some people like to burn through as much driving per day as possible, while others prefer a slower “stop and smell the roses” pace.
*Last updated August 16, 2024
How Far to Drive
This is a question that is different for everyone. It is based on whether you are towing, your number of drivers and your amount of your free vacation time. I like to be around 500 miles when driving in the USA. Unless I am looking to stop somewhere or need to tear down or set up the camper, in which case I would prefer less. However, I’ve listed some general guidelines for driving distances below.
How far to Drive: each day
300 miles
Around 5 hours driving without stops, a nice half day drive leaving time for stops or getting into your campsite or hotel early. A lot of RV, 5th wheel and travel trailer owners go by the goal of not driving more than 300-350 miles.
400 miles
Around 7 hours driving without stops or traffic, good to stop and see something mid-day or arrive in time to set up camp.
500 miles
Around 9 hours, which can leave time for an hour or two stop somewhere.
600 miles
A maximum of 11 hours is the most a truck driver can drive, which comes out around 600 miles.
700 miles
A very long day, around 12 hours driving without stops or traffic. Starting to push it and doesn’t leave much time for any issues, like a flat tire.
800 miles
You would have to leave very early, arrive very late, and have at least two drivers. I would try to avoid it as it doesn’t leave much room for traffic, but sometimes it is nice to get where you are going when you are either heading home or to a long-stay destination.
How far to Drive: The Entire Vacation
It really depends a lot on how much you tolerate driving. Some people hate long drives and some people… kind of enjoy it. However, if you are with your family, remember that it is not only you and try to understand what your family will enjoy (or at least tolerate). Additionally, it depends how much time you have as you can drive a lot more distance with a month compared to a weekend. We typically take 2 to 2.5 weeks and might travel 5000 miles if we go from Cincinnati to Maine, Texas, Colorado or Wyoming. I’m looking forward to a California trip or Pacific Northwest. However, I’d want a full 3 weeks for that journey.
Driving With a Trailer
Driving with a minivan or SUV and pulling a pop-up camper is pretty easy. Additionally, they are light weight, our pop-up weighed less than 2000 pounds (less than 900 kg). Also, it is collapsed so it doesn’t collect the wind like a larger trailer. We were usually pretty comfortable driving up to 70 mph, depending on the speed limit, of course.
However, we just purchased a 26′ (9 meter) No Boundaries 20.3 EO travel trailer. We love it so far, but I can definitely feel it more behind our vehicle. Additionally, I’m more comfortable going a little slower and keeping the speed to around 60-65 mph. A slightly slower speed will help with your gas mileage as well.
How Far to Drive – Conclusion
Remember, these are just my recommendations and we’ve driven a lot. From Cincinnati, Ohio, we would frequently drive to various Carolina and Florida panhandle beaches in one day. Cincinnati to Myrtle Beach is about 650-675 miles depending on which route you take. Cincinnati to Destin, Florida is about 725 miles. Both make for long days, especially if you hit any traffic. Additionally, completely stopped traffic is not uncommon. You have to be able to improvise. Don’t be afraid to change the plans and get a motel if you are feeling tired. Also, if you are towing a trailer, be sure to adjust your speed and driving habit accordingly. Good luck and safe travels!