Road Trip Ready: Road Trip Planning Tips, Inspiration and Getaway Ideas

15. Maximizing Credit Card Rewards for Road Trips: Travel Hacking 101

Imagine shaving $100 off your hotel bill before you even pull out of the driveway. When you hear “points and miles,” chances are you think about free flights and hotel stays. But did you know credit card rewards can also make your road trips cheaper? In this episode of Road Trip Ready Podcast, we dive into the world of credit card perks for road trippers. From car rental insurance and roadside assistance to hotel credits and loyalty perks, we break down practical ways to stretch your road trip budget. Christopher Rudder brings his no-nonsense, cautious approach (using credit cards mainly for emergencies), while Danielle Desir Corbett shares her favorite hacks for earning and redeeming rewards on everyday road trip expenses like gas, dining, and hotels. Together, we show you the pros, cons, and real-life stories that will help you decide what works best for your style of travel.By the end of this episode, you’ll know at least (8) credit card perks you can use on your next road trip.This post contains affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you use my links. Thanks for supporting my small business.What You’ll Learn:* Why road trippers shouldn’t overlook credit card rewards* Built-in perks like car rental insurance and roadside assistance* How to earn bonus points on gas, dining, hotels, and even Uber Eats* The power of stacking rewards with apps like CardPointersWhether you’re a savvy points collector or a road tripper who prefers to keep things simple, this episode is packed with ideas to help you save money and travel a little smarter.➡️ Have a favorite credit card hack for road trips? Share your tips with us—we’d love to feature them in a future episode!Resources & Mentions:* Chase Sapphire Reserve: Earn 125,000 points after you spend $6,000 in purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. * Capital One Venture: Earn 75,000 bonus miles and enjoy a $300 Capital One Travel credit for hotels and vacation rentals. Other Content You’ll Enjoy🎧 20 Smart Ways To Save Money On Your Next Road Trip - Episode 9 🎧 How To Road Trip (Almost) Free - The Thought Card Podcast by Danielle Desir Corbett CardPointers Review: Best App to Manage Credit Cards and Maximize Rewards by Danielle Desir Corbett This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roadtripready.substack.com

14. International Selkirk Loop: A 2-Nation Road Trip Through Idaho, Washington and British Columbia with Jodi St. Clair

What if you could take an international road trip that winds through three stunning regions, crosses two countries, and gives you access to kayaking waterfalls, local dairy farms, artisan villages, and small lakeside towns?On this episode of Road Trip Ready, we’re spotlighting a true hidden gem: the International Selkirk Loop — a 280-mile scenic drive through Idaho, Washington, and British Columbia that deserves way more attention.We're joined by Jodi St. Clair of Learners and Makers, who is passionate about empowering amputees and families to explore the world through slow, budget-friendly international travel.Jodi shares how she planned her Selkirk Loop road trip, what made it so approachable, and why it’s one of her favorite underrated drives. Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Any podcast playerWe cover:* How Jodi and her family planned her international Selkirk Loop road trip with a RV* Why the Selkirk Loop is ideal for slow travel and accessible exploration* Must-visit small towns including Sandpoint, Kaslo, Creston, and more* The best stops for kayaking, outdoor art, and hands-on cultural experiences* What to consider when budgeting, crossing the border, and booking accommodations🛣️ Gear up for your next adventure—shop our favorite road trip essentials to stay comfortable, organized, and ready for anything. New finds recently added! Featured Stops Mentioned:* Newport, Washington – Jodi’s entry point into the loop* Pee Wee Falls – Accessible via kayak* Creston, British Columbia – Home to an organic woman-owned dairy farm* Crawford Bay – Artisan shops with glassblowing, weaving and more* Kaslo, British Columbia – Lakeside town with local restaurants and a community feel* Sandpoint, Idaho – Outdoor adventures, family fun, and stunning viewsResources To Plan Your Selkirk Loop Road Trip* Selkirkloop.org - Plan your trip and explore the International Selkirk Loop. Includes route maps, “Super Side Trips,” lodging, and attraction recommendations to help customize your trip.* 5 Reasons To Take an International Selkirk Loop VacationConnect with Jodie St. Clair Website: www.learnersandmakers.com Instagram: @learnersandmakers YouTube: Learners and MakersOther Episodes You’ll EnjoyFind Hidden Gems Before and During Road Trips - Episode 8How To Make Road Trips More Comfortable and Enjoyable - Episode 7Tips For Road Tripping With Kids - Episode 5 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roadtripready.substack.com

13. Why Solo Road Tripping Might Be Exactly What You Need Right Now with Beth Binger

If you've ever felt the pull to hit the road solo—but hesitated because of fear, uncertainty, or not knowing where to begin—this episode is for you.In this episode of Road Trip Ready Podcast, we chat with Beth Binger about the transformative power of solo road trips—especially for people craving more wonder in their lives. We cover:* Why solo road tripping hits different than any other kind of travel* What it means to reclaim wonder—and how the road helps us do it* Common fears that hold solo travelers back—and how to push through them* Tips for staying safe and grounded on your journey* And how traveling solo reminds you of who you really areListen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Any podcast playerThanks for reading Road Trip Ready! Subscribe to receive our new podcast episodes sent right to your inbox!Beth’s Resources* Get Started in 5 Days » The Going Solo Quick Start Guide* Read » There’s Wonder Around the Bend by Beth BingerConnect with Beth Binger Beth Binger is all about equipping and inspiring people to go on solo road trips as a way to restore freedom and wonder to their lives. She has traveled over 60,000 miles across the U.S., Canada, and Europe—most of it with her Golden Retriever, Lexi. Beth’s travels have never been about speed or a checklist. They're about slowing down, focusing on the beauty of Creation, and building a journey that’s completely her own.Through her writing, speaking, and storytelling, Beth inspires people to trade fear for freedom, reminding us that courage and awe are just around the corner. Website: wonderbingtravel.comInstagram: wonderbingtravelYouTube: WonderBingTravel Other Episodes You’ll EnjoyHow to Successfully Road Trip with Pets - Episode 4Find Hidden Gems Before and During Road Trips - Episode 8How To Make Road Trips More Comfortable and Enjoyable - Episode 7Stay Connected with Us💻 Website: roadtripreadypodcast.com📸 Instagram: road_trip_ready This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roadtripready.substack.com

12. Beyond Toronto: 5 Epic Getaways Less Than 2 Hours Away

Need a change of pace from the hustle and bustle of Toronto? In this episode of Road Trip Ready, we're taking you beyond the city limits to uncover five incredible destinations — all under a two-hour drive from Toronto, Canada.These small towns and cities deliver big on charm, adventure, and unforgettable experiences. From lakeside ice fishing to wine tasting with a view, we’ve got your next road trip covered.Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Any podcast player🗺️ Featured Destinations:* Stratford, Ontario – Theater, shopping, and Justin Bieber’s hometown* Elora, Ontario – Gorge hikes, historic mills, a luxe spa, and glass art* Buffalo, New York – Jazz, wings, art, and the Upstate Eats Trail* Port Perry, Ontario – Ice fishing, apple fritters, and Old Flame brews* Prince Edward County – Wine tastings, sand dunes, and charcuterie dreams🔗 Resources & Links:* Upstate Eats Trail* Elora Mill Hotel & Spa + Dining* Old Flame Brewing Co.🎧 Other Episodes You’ll Enjoy:Day Trips vs. Weekend Getaways vs. Classic Road Trips - Episode 10 How To Make Road Trips More Enjoyable and Comfortable - Episode 7 🛣️ Quick Takeaway:You don’t need a plane ticket for your next great escape. With scenic drives and unique small-town experiences just a short ride from Toronto, your next road trip is closer than you think. Stay Connected with Us💻 Website: roadtripreadypodcast.com🎥 YouTube: @road_trip_ready 📸 Instagram: @road_trip_ready This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roadtripready.substack.com

11. Why Canadians Are Rethinking U.S. Travel in 2025 (and What It Means for Road Trippers)

Canadian travelers are rethinking their road trips — and U.S. destinations are already feeling the impact.In this eye-opening episode of Road Trip Ready, we veer off our usual path to tackle a pressing issue shaking up North American travel.We sit down with award-winning Canadian travel journalist Charmaine Noronha, who shares what’s fueling the growing anti-U.S. sentiment among Canadian travelers — and how politics, safety concerns, and shifting media coverage are changing where people go (and where they don’t).✨ What we cover:* Why Canadian media outlets are dropping U.S. travel content* The growing fear among everyday travelers* Alternative destinations Canadians are choosing instead— like Mexico and the Dominican Republic* Real stories behind canceled trips — and what they reveal about traveler sentiment* How long this trend might lastListen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Any podcast playerResources Mentioned * AFAR: Canadians Are Boycotting Travel to the U.S., and These Are the Very Real Effects It’s HavingConnect with Charmaine NoronhaCharmaine Noronha is a Toronto-based journalist and travel writer with over 20 years of experience covering global stories. Known for her thoughtful reporting and focus on inclusive travel, as well as multicultural and BIPOC issues, Charmaine brings a nuanced perspective to the intersection of tourism, politics, and culture.Website: charmainenoronha.com Instagram: @charmaine_noronhaThreads: @charmaine_noronhaShop Our Road Trip EssentialsThese are the exact tools and products we keep in our trunk:* Road Trip USA: Cross-Country Adventures on America's Two-Lane Highways* Travel Utensils with Case* Car Seat Headrest Hooks* Magnetic Sunglass Holder* Emergency Roadside Assistance Kit* Digital Tire Pressure Gauge* Portable Air Compressor for Tires* Car Battery Jump Starter🛒 Shop all our favorite Amazon finds for road trippers.Other Episodes You’ll Enjoy How To Find Hidden Gems Before and During Road Trips - Episode 8How To Make Road Trips More Comfortable and Enjoyable - Episode 7 Stay Connected with Us💻 Website: roadtripreadypodcast.com📸 Instagram: @road_trip_ready This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roadtripready.substack.com