Top Ways to Navigate the US

Embarking on a road trip is a timeless American tradition, celebrated by figures like Kerouac, Steinbeck, and even Barbie.

With thousands of miles of highways and scenic routes connecting cities throughout the continental USA, traveling by car is straightforward. However, it can be time-consuming—after all, the US ranks as the fourth largest country globally—and costly, particularly with rising fuel and rental rates.

Fortunately, a variety of transportation options exist in the US, including a comprehensive air travel network that accommodates different travel styles. Here’s what you need to know for planning your journeys across the US.

For ease and versatility, opt for car travel.

To access rural regions—and most national parks—a car is indispensable. Fuel prices average around $4 per gallon, with rental rates typically ranging from $45 to $80 per day, or $245 to $500 per week, depending on the vehicle size. These rates usually include unlimited mileage. Booking a few weeks in advance and prepaying can help you secure better deals. Most major airports feature on-site car rental agencies, though prices may be higher than off-site options. Remember, insurance is mandatory for renting a car, and larger cities may offer rentals through car-sharing services like Turo.

International visitors can drive legally in the US for up to 12 months with their home driver's license. However, having an International Driving Permit (IDP) adds credibility with US traffic authorities, especially if your home license lacks a photo or is not in English. For a small fee, your local automobile association can issue an IDP, valid for one year.

Major car rental companies now provide a selection of hybrid and electric vehicles, although these usually come at a premium. The popularity of electric vehicle travel is on the rise, with charging stations appearing nationwide to meet the demand. Finding a charger can still be challenging, especially on extended road trips. Fortunately, with some planning, several iconic American routes can be navigated in an EV with minimal hassle.

Camper vans, including well-equipped Mercedes Sprinters, are becoming a popular rental choice, especially in the West. These vehicles often feature comfortable beds and may come with mini-fridges and other conveniences. Be aware that daily mileage may be limited, and rental prices typically range from $120 to $300 based on the model.

Unwind and enjoy the landscape aboard a train.

Amtrak trains operate regularly and quite reliably along the eastern seaboard between Washington, DC, and Boston, making them a favored choice for quick trips between major cities. However, in other parts of the country, trains are often not the fastest, cheapest, or most dependable mode of transport. Nonetheless, they provide a pleasant and leisurely way to explore the nation, with particularly stunning scenery on western routes, especially from double-decker Superliner trains with spacious sightseer lounges and large windows.

Amtrak offers long-distance routes that span the nation from coast to coast and from north to south. These routes connect major cities as well as many smaller ones. Amtrak's Thruway buses provide additional links to the rail network, connecting to smaller cities and several national parks. Some long-distance trains operate daily, while others run three to five times a week. For extensive travel across the country, consider getting Amtrak's USA Rail Pass.

Regional commuter trains deliver quicker, more frequent service on shorter routes, particularly in the Northeast Corridor. Amtrak’s high-speed Acela Express trains are the priciest option, and rail passes are not valid for these. Other commuter rail services include routes along the Lake Michigan shoreline near Chicago, Illinois, and in major cities on the West Coast, as well as in Charlotte, North Carolina, and the Miami, Florida area in the South.

A scenic train ride, often powered by a historic steam locomotive, offers a relaxing way to take in breathtaking landscapes without the stress of driving, especially in mountainous regions.

Opt for the bus to save money while easily connecting to major cities.

Traveling by bus can be a cost-effective method to journey between cities. While most middle-class Americans prefer flying or driving, buses allow you to appreciate the countryside. Generally, buses are reliable, reasonably clean, and comfortable, with amenities such as air conditioning and restrooms. Smoking on board is prohibited.

Greyhound is the primary long-distance bus provider, offering routes across the US and Canada. These routes typically follow major highways and stop at larger urban centers. To access smaller towns, you may need to switch to a local or county bus service.

The Trailways Transportation System is made up of about 70 independent bus companies. These companies operate on an interlining basis, with the Trailways website facilitating route searches and ticketing. However, the website is not particularly user-friendly for route planning. Other long-distance bus services with reasonable fares and free Wi-Fi (though it may not always be reliable) include Megabus and FlixBus. The new Jet Bus connects Washington, DC, and New York City, while the long-established Hampton Jitney links NYC with the Hamptons and the North Fork.

Although many smaller destinations have been eliminated, non-express Greyhound buses still make stops every 50 to 100 miles to pick up passengers, and long-distance buses take breaks for meals and driver changes. While many bus stations are safe and well-lit, some may be located in less desirable areas. If you arrive at night, consider taking a taxi or using a ride-share service to reach your destination. Some towns only have flag stops, which might not be in walkable locations.

Reach your destination swiftly by plane

If you're pressed for time while traveling between two regions, consider booking a flight. Although flying tends to be pricier than bus, car, or train travel, the US boasts a vast domestic air network. With numerous airlines competing, hundreds of airports, and thousands of flights each day, you can traverse the country fairly quickly. Major hub airports include international gateways and larger cities, while smaller towns usually have local or county airports that require a connection through a hub. To save on costs, explore new low-cost airlines like Avelo and Breeze, which aim to attract travelers with their incredibly low fares—though they often operate from smaller, less convenient airports.

Experience local landscapes on a bike tour.

Bicycle touring offers a refreshing way to enjoy regional landscapes. On a bike tour, you'll navigate winding backroads (as bicycles are generally not allowed on highways) and track your journey by miles pedaled each day rather than miles per hour. Cyclists must adhere to the same traffic rules as vehicles, but don’t expect motorists to always yield the right of way. For grand cross-country adventures, consider enlisting a tour operator; expect about two months of dedicated pedaling from coast to coast.

While some cities are more bike-friendly than others, most feature at least a few dedicated bike lanes and paths. Bikes are typically allowed on public transport, and many cities are enhancing their greenway networks. Bike rental spots are often conveniently located near key access points. E-bikes are becoming increasingly popular for local exploration, enabling riders to cover greater distances and tackle steep climbs.

Take a ferry to discover unique islands along the coast.

State-run coastal ferry services offer efficient and often picturesque connections to major islands. Many larger ferries can carry private cars, motorcycles, and bicycles. For breathtaking views, the ferry journey along southeastern Alaska and through the Inside Passage is unmatched. On the Pacific side, ferries connect the scenic San Juan Islands in Washington and the hiker-friendly Catalina Island in California. In the Midwest, islands in the Great Lakes, such as Mackinac Island, Michigan, and the Apostle Islands in Wisconsin, can be reached by boat. On the East Coast, ferries transport travelers to the upscale destinations of Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts, as well as the rugged shores of Ocracoke Island in North Carolina.

Traveling within large cities is affordable, efficient, and dependable.

Subways and light rail trains provide a cost-effective, efficient, and reliable mode of transport in major US cities, though coverage may be limited in suburban areas. The largest subway systems can be found in New York City, Chicago, Boston, Washington, DC, the San Francisco Bay Area, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, and Atlanta. Other cities might have smaller rail systems serving mainly downtown areas. Light rail options, such as trams and trolleys, are also prevalent, with cities like Denver, Seattle, San Diego, Minneapolis, Portland, Phoenix, Tucson, and Charlotte having their own systems, alongside those with subways.

Many national parks offer free transportation options.

Several larger national parks, including Acadia, Grand Canyon, Yosemite, and Zion, operate free shuttles to their main attractions. The challenge lies in reaching the parks themselves. To avoid renting a car, consider joining a guided tour from a nearby town or hiring a private shuttle for drop-offs and pickups at park trailheads. Many national parks list authorized shuttle companies on their websites.

Accessible Transportation Options in the USA

For travelers with disabilities, the USA offers many accommodations, thanks to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This federal law mandates that all public buildings, private structures built after 1993 (including hotels, restaurants, theaters, and museums), and public transit systems must be wheelchair accessible. However, it’s wise to call ahead to verify specific accommodations.

Some car rental companies provide hand-controlled vehicles, often equipped with lifts and ramps, at no additional cost, but it’s important to reserve in advance. Wheelchair Getaways offers accessible vans for rent across the USA. In numerous cities, public buses are designed for wheelchair users and can 'kneel' to assist those who cannot use the steps; just inform the driver if you need the ramp or lift.

Most cities feature taxi services that include at least one accessible van, but you’ll need to call in advance. Cities with subway systems vary in their accessibility features; for instance, Washington, DC has elevators at every station, while New York City has elevators in only about 25% of its stations.

For valuable tips and insights on traveling with a disability, download Dinogo Planet’s free Accessible Travel guide.