When you look at a map of the United States, the idea of driving all the way from Maine to Florida might seem daunting. Depending on where you start and where you’re headed, the trip is 1,800 miles or longer and takes you through some of the most populated cities in the country. However, a road trip down the East Coast can actually be enjoyable, and not completely exhausting, if you take time to plan your route and see some of the sights along the way.

Step 1

Compare the various routes from Maine to Florida. While you will undoubtedly start your journey on Interstate Route 95 in southern New England, you have several options. You can stay on Route 95 all the way to Florida; this route is technically the most direct, but will take you through the potentially congested New York, Baltimore and Washington, D.C., metro areas – and cost you quite a bit in tolls. Other options include taking routes 81 and 75 south; this option is arguably more scenic and has fewer tolls. It will take you to the west side of Florida, making it a better choice if you are headed to the Panhandle region.

Step 2

Determine the number of miles that you can safely drive each day. RoadtripAmerica.com recommends that solo drivers plan to drive no more than 500 miles each day; if you are traveling with another driver, plan to travel up to 800 miles in a day. Plan your rest breaks around those limits. When you take them depends on where you start your trip: If you are leaving from the northernmost part of Maine, you can safely to travel as far as the Boston area on the first day, while if you’re leaving from Portland, you can most likely make it to southern New Jersey on your first leg.

Step 3

Reserve lodging at your stopping points. Making reservations serves two purposes: It forces you to stop and get some rest and guarantees you a place to rest. You'll be less likely to end up in a bug-infested motel in the middle of nowhere – or sleeping in your car.

Step 4

Plan your departure time around traffic patterns. This is especially important if you are planning to travel Route 95. If you hit one of the major cities around rush hour, you could delay your trip by several hours.

Step 5

Update your GPS so it contains the most current maps and road conditions. Doing so will help you avoid major construction, for example, or driving around a random town looking for a fast-food restaurant that’s been closed for three years.

Step 6

Sign up for an E-ZPass, if you do not already have one, and pre-pay your tolls. You’ll receive a transponder for your car that allows you to go through tolls without stopping. The E-ZPass works in all states from Maine to Virginia.

Step 7

Pack a road trip survival kit. Include emergency gear such as jumper cables and a tire jack, but also a flashlight, basic tools and a first-aid kit. Pack snacks, water and warm blankets in case you get stuck somewhere.

Step 8

Plan a side excursion or two as you drive south. The route from Maine to Florida is packed with interesting historical sites, amusement parks, exciting cities and, yes, even a kitschy roadside attraction or two. Take an hour or two to explore the South Carolina landmark “South of the Border” along Route 95, for example, or spend an afternoon at the Atlanta Aquarium if you take the western route. Stopping for even a few hours relieves the monotony of the road and makes the trip more memorable for everyone.

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