Fall in Love with Road Tripping This Season
If you're looking to take in all that fall has to offer, look no further than the open road
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The beauty of fall cannot be understated with its bright colors, crisp autumn breeze and delicious seasonal treats. If you're looking to take in all that this wanderlust season has to offer - look no further than the open road. The quintessential road trip is all about making memories, exploring new terrain and having fun. What better time to do this than when the magic of fall is in the air?
To help you plan your fall road trip, Best Western Hotels & Resorts has pulled together eight travel tips that will help you make the most of your next adventure.
1. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF AAA RATES.
The taste of fall is so much sweeter with sweet savings. When you're planning your road trip, make sure you take advantage of exclusive AAA member savings. Save up to 15% at Best Western-branded properties every day when you book online at AAA.com/Best Western or through your local AAA Travel Advisor. AAA members are also offered special promotions!
This fall, AAA members who stay between September 12 and November 21, 2022 at any Best Western®-branded hotel in the United States, Canada or the Caribbean will earn double points on each qualified stay, no limit. Advance registration is required on AAA.com/BestWestern.
2. DO ANY RESEARCH AHEAD OF TIME.
There are so many activities and places to visit that will have you falling in love with the season! Coming up with a list of things you'd like to see and do before you hit the road will save you a great deal of time and stress once you get to your destination. The more you know, the smoother the ride! Need a few ideas to get you started? Explore a national park, scope out a hike with incredible views, attend a fall festival that might be happening nearby, or curl up at a local coffee shop with your favorite book or podcast!
3. PACK FALL-INSPIRED SNACKS!
Stock up on everyone's favorite fall snacks and drinks that will make your car ride as cozy as the season itself! From earthy foods such as crisp apples, fresh pears and mixed nuts to seasonal treats and refreshments like pumpkin bread, cinnamon rolls and homemade apple cider - there are plenty of tasty options that will make your road trip even more memorable!
4. BRING YOUR DOG ALONG FOR THE RIDE!
If we had to guess, our pets probably love fall as much as we do! Why not bring them along for the ride? Rest assured your four-legged friend will receive a warm welcome with many hotels offering pet-friendly rooms. Consider bringing along your pet's bed, a favorite toy or a special blanket so they feel right at home.
5. TAKE THE "FALL" IN...
Fall can be a busy time of year, but it's also a season that goes by too fast if you don't stop to take it all in. Use your road trip as an opportunity to slow down. After all, the magic in road trips is quite often found in the memories made along the way. Consider stopping at scenic lookouts, family-friendly attractions, farmer's markets or quaint restaurants. Sometimes it's the smallest moments that make the biggest memories!
Also, choose hotels that will be a welcome destination at the end of the day. Consider family-friendly brands that offer pools, hot tubs or water slides. With a shorter drive day, you can arrive with time to relax and enjoy the hotel amenities.
6. LEVERAGE LOYALTY PROGRAMS FOR ADDED VALUE.
Many attractions, restaurants, gas stations and hotels offer loyalty programs. Find the programs that are right for you and make sure your loyalty pays off. Consider planning hotel stays and other stops along your route with just one brand so that by the end of your trip you'll have enough points for an excellent reward! The AAA Preferred Best Western Rewards
program offers an upgrade to Gold member status and bonus points that never expire and can be redeemed for free nights and more.
7. BE AWARE SOME THINGS CHANGED.
The pandemic changed how businesses - especially those in the travel landscape - offer some of their services. While some of these changes were temporary, some look like they're here to stay. For example, daily housekeeping services at many hotels may not be standard and may be by request only. While housekeeping staff may not be permitted to enter your room for daily standard service, think about requesting additional linens or garbage pickup when needed.
8. START YOUR STAY OFF RIGHT!
Breakfast is known as the most important meal of the day, and if your fall travel plans include exploring the outdoors, breakfast is even more important! Look for hotels that offer breakfast-either complimentary continental, hot or from an on-site restaurant. If you're planning an early departure, many hotels offer a grab-and-go option. Remember, every great adventure starts with a great breakfast!