Thinking of taking your electric car on a summer adventure? Electric vehicles (EVs) aren’t just for short commutes and city driving; they’re road-trip ready, too. Today’s electric vehicles offer extended driving range, and public EV charging stations are more accessible than ever. Whether you’re headed to the coast, the mountains, or a national park, a smooth, fun EV road trip is within reach.
Here are our top EV travel tips to help you plan your next all-electric adventure.
1. Plan your EV charging stops like a pro
The key to a smooth electric vehicle road trip is a solid charging plan. Use free EV trip planning tools like PlugShare, ChargePoint, or A Better Route Planner to map out charging stations along your route. Most tools let you filter by fast chargers and preferred networks, so you can easily plan rest stops, meals, and overnight stays around your charging needs.
2. Know your EV’s range (and build in a buffer)
Be realistic about your EV’s driving range, especially if you’re climbing hills or using the air conditioner. Plan for a little extra buffer to ensure peace of mind in case your preferred charging station is busy or out of service.
3. Book lodging with EV charging amenities
Many hotels, motels, and vacation rentals now offer EV charging for guests, sometimes even for free. Booking a stay with a Level 2 charger on-site means you can wake up to a full battery and skip the extra charging stop in the morning.
4. Turn charging stops into mini adventures
Charging doesn’t have to be a chore. Many public charging stations are located near coffee shops, local attractions, or scenic rest stops. Treat these breaks as part of the fun, and explore new places while your car powers up.
5. Prep your EV essentials
Before you hit the road, make sure you’ve got:
- Access to your EV charging apps and cards (like PlugShare)
- A backup charging cable, especially if you’re visiting rural areas
- A tire inflator and basic emergency kit
- Your EV’s mobile app connected for remote monitoring
Staying prepared will give you peace of mind and make the journey more enjoyable.
Check out our EV resources to find expert tips, rebates, and everything you need to get the most out of driving electric.
