How long does it take to drive across the US? Less than a week with minimal stops, or you could stretch it out into a multi-week adventure with plenty of detours. But there’s no singular definitive answer. That’s because many factors — such as your vehicle, route, weather and side trips — influence drive time. In this guide, we’re covering the factors that impact total drive time so you can better predict your coast-to-coast timeframe.
Table of Contents:
How Many Miles To Drive Across the US?
The shortest route across the US is about 2,500 miles. However, your beginning and end points will dictate your total mileage. For example, San Francisco to New York covers roughly 2,900 miles, while Seattle to Miami covers nearly 3,300 miles. Detours along the way to visit landmarks and attractions can also impact total mileage.
How Long To Drive Across the US by Yourself?
Making the trip across the US solo takes longer than with buddies, because there’s nobody to take the wheel when you need to rest. And you’ll need to take plenty of breaks to remain a safe, alert driver. The number of miles you can cover in a day depends on your comfort level. Here are common daily miles/hours clocked behind the wheel and the total trip time for each:
- 3,000 miles at 5 hours/day (approx. 300 miles/day) = 10 days
- 2,800 miles at 8 hours/day (approx. 500 miles/day) = 6 days
- 3,000 miles at 10 hours/day (approx. 600 miles/day) = 5 days
You can certainly accomplish a cross-country trip alone. It’s just important to be realistic about how long you can drive before you need to pull over — and to leave some time to enjoy the adventure.
How Long Does it Take To Drive Cross-Country With Friends/Family?
Driving cross-country with a crew can help you cover more miles each day, since you can take turns behind the wheel. However, traveling with a group also means accommodating diverse needs and goals. You might make added stops for:
- Food and drink: Finding restaurants that accommodate several preferences and dietary restrictions can be harder with a group. You might need to make multiple stops to satisfy everyone.
- Rest breaks: Between bathroom breaks, time to stretch legs and snack needs, not everyone is on the same schedule. You might pull over more frequently with friends and family on board.
- Photo ops and tourist stops: This trip is about the journey as much as the destination. Be prepared to stop so everyone can take photos, buy souvenirs and savor the adventure.
While driving with a group adds some complexities, it can also make for some of the best road trips in the country because of the shared experiences.
How Long Does it Take To Drive Across the US With Kids?
A cross-country trip with your kids is something they’ll always remember. However, traveling with children can call for extra stops, depending on their age and temperament. If you’re traveling with babies or toddlers, plan to pull over more for diaper changes and feeding breaks. Older children can often handle longer stretches on the road, but they still need to hop out to stretch their legs.
Finding family-friendly restaurants with amenities like kids’ menus and high chairs can be another consideration. Hotel needs can change, too, since you might require properties that guarantee connecting rooms.
Driving with kids across the country might add a few days to your trip. However, it’s more than worth it for the memories you’ll create together.
How Long Would it Take To Drive Across America if Avoiding Highways?
If you choose to cross the U.S. while avoiding highways, plan on at least 8 to 12 days of steady driving, and likely longer if you sightsee. A typical coast-to-coast trip on interstates can take about 4 to 6 days, but detouring onto small roads roughly doubles the time because of slower speed limits, more stops, and winding routes.
That slower pace is also the point. Avoiding highways turns a purely efficient drive into a picturesque one, guiding you through small towns, country back roads, and off-the-beaten-path gems. Some of the most scenic drives in the US happen off the major highways.
For more control over your route, consider a Rand McNally road atlas. “Rand McNally Road Atlases are the ultimate tool for any road trip,” says Tom Vitacco, Director of GIS at Rand McNally. “While our maps show all the major highways, they can also help you discover the back roads. These are the best ways to experience America's small towns, local attractions, and incredible scenery.”
He adds, “To find the most scenic routes, look for the roads with small green dots along the side—those are our editors' top picks. If you're trying to avoid the main highways altogether, steer clear of the blue and green roads. For the most off-the-beaten-path experience, you might even want to skip the yellow/orange ones and stick to the smaller pink and gray roads.”
How Long Does it Take To Drive Coast to Coast at Different Times of Year?
Coast-to-coast drive times vary by season because weather conditions impact which routes are open and how fast you can drive.
Winter Woes
If you’re taking a northern route in the winter, prepare for snow, ice and shorter days. You might need to drive more slowly, which can add one or two days to your drive time. The central United States can also experience heavy snow this time of year.
Spring Surprises
Traveling through the central states during springtime can mean facing tornado warnings and flash storms. Prepare for unexpected stops, since you might need to wait until the roads are safe again. Still, the central states contain iconic roadways, like on a Route 66 trip, making them well worth any obstacles.
Summer Snags
Summer is construction season in the north and central states. Large sections of major highways might be closed, sending you to slower backroads. Extreme heat can also require more stops for fuel, as running the AC non-stop requires frequent fill-ups.
Some states across the northern, central and southern US face fire risks during the dry months, too. Fire risks can close roads and potentially add several days to your journey.
See our cross-country road trip guide to be prepared for every season and situation.
How Long Does it Take To Drive Across America in an RV?
Driving across America in an RV can take several weeks or even months. RVs face route restrictions and can’t move as fast as regular cars. However, an RV road trip opens up more possibilities and can make for a unique adventure. For example, you can camp out in idyllic, remote locations and save money on meals, since you’ll have a kitchen on wheels. It’s a great way to travel when you’re not on a tight schedule.
How Many Days to Drive Cross-Country in a Moving Van?
Driving cross-country in a moving van takes approximately seven to 10 days. That’s assuming you’re taking a 2,500-3,000-mile route and covering 300 to 400 miles per day. Making this trip with a moving van takes longer because the vehicle is more difficult to maneuver, requires more frequent fuel stops and may be limited to certain routes.
Additionally, finding places to park your large moving van can be a challenge. If you’re transporting valuables, you might also have to be more selective about hotels/motels, prioritizing locations with gated parking lots and strong security.
How Long Would it Take To Drive Across the US Without a Map?
Driving across the US without a map might sound fun, but it can turn a multi-day trip into a multi-week one. You might take a wrong turn, miss out on efficient routes or find yourself backtracking after passing your exit. Plus, you may need to pull over frequently to ask for directions — not just to your final destination, but to restaurants, gas stations and other services. Even the most adventurous of travelers do best with reliable directions!
Be Prepared With Rand McNally Maps and Atlases
Traveling across the US can be an incredible way to experience hidden gems and major attractions. With proper planning, you can tackle this trip on a tight schedule or enjoy a laid-back journey. It’s important to know which factors impact the drive time, like weather, route, number of passengers and planned excursions.
With Rand McNally road maps and atlases by your side, you can create the trip that fits your needs. Our detailed navigational products contain up-to-date information, insider insights and easy-to-understand imagery so you’ll always find your way. The 2026 Road Atlas also commemorates the USA’s 250th birthday and Route 66’s 100th anniversary with 11 regional culinary road trip itineraries—complete with insider tips from celebrity chefs and unique off-the-beaten-path food stops curated by Atlas Obscura. Whether you’re driving from coast to coast or enjoying a weekend getaway, our tools will serve as your trusted guides.
FAQ
How long does it realistically take to drive across the US?
Driving across the US without stops would take roughly 40 to 45 hours. However, you will need to stop for food, fuel, sleep and breaks, which can make the trip take anywhere from seven to 10 days, depending on the number of passengers.
Can you drive across the US in 2 days?
You can technically drive across the US in two days, as the most direct route takes less than 48 hours with zero stops. However, it’s not safe to do solo since you’ll have no one to take over and give you a chance to rest.
Can you drive across the US in 3 days?
Yes, you could drive across the US in three days. However, that wouldn’t allow for many stops, which could make your trip less enjoyable.
How long would it take to drive across the USA towing a camper?
Driving across the USA can take 10 to 15 days when towing a camper. You’ll need to drive slower (usually 55 MPH), and might need to pull over often to check your hitch connection. The added weight can decrease fuel efficiency, too, so you’ll need to make more fuel stops.
How much would it cost to drive across the US?
Driving across the US in a sedan that achieves average fuel economy could cost roughly $350, depending on fuel prices. You will need to account for other costs, though, like lodging, food and admission costs for parks and tourist destinations. Splitting these costs with a group can bring down the cost significantly.