The Allure of Long Distances: Why People Prefer Car Trips Over Air Travel

Driving long distances in a car has long been a beloved activity for many, a way to explore the vast landscapes and cultures of our world. Some do it out of fear of air travel, others for the sheer joy of exploration and connection with local residents. Regardless of the reason, the joy of a road trip transcends borders and continents.

A Story of Adventure with Italian Friends

Consider the story of four Italian young friends who recently made their way from Milano, the largest city in my home province, to Iran, using a vintage Fiat 127. Their ultimate destination remains the Gobi desert in Mongolia, a journey that could take a whole year. This is a testament to the allure of long-distance driving—such a unique and fulfilling experience cannot be replicated by any other form of travel.

Why My Husband and I Love Road Trips

There are numerous reasons why my husband and I are enthusiastic about long-distance driving:

Discovering Hidden Gems

Once we were driving east from the Hoover Dam, when we noticed a small roadside sign for the Southwest Soaring Museum. We stopped and spent a couple of hours there, which were very illuminating and enjoyable. The experience of finding interesting museums along the way is one of the many hidden gems of long-distance driving.

Exploring Local Cuisine and Lodging

Driving allows us to encounter local residents, which helps us find the best restaurants and affordable lodging. From cozy bed and breakfasts to local eateries, the local community often welcomes strangers and can provide valuable recommendations. We've discovered some truly amazing meals and places to stay, which add to the overall experience.

Quality Time Together

We have uninterrupted time to talk about a wide range of topics—from books to movies, to music to politics. Moreover, we can point out and marvel at unusual topographical sights, each contributing to the rich tapestry of our journey. For us, it's about the connections we make and the conversations we have, free from any external pressures.

Cost-Effectiveness

Long-distance driving is often cheaper than taking commercial flights, especially when we consider all the expenses related to air travel, such as airline tickets, car rental, hotels, food, baggage charges, and being on someone else's schedule. Our recent 2-week trip to 3 different states cost us only 75 USD for a one-way trip, which is a fraction of the cost of flying and accommodating the same schedule.

Supporting Local Economies

Another reason we enjoy road trips is that we can support local economies. We buy Wisconsin cheeses, Albuquerque's Old Town Hats, locally made jewelry and jams in New Mexico. Each purchase and connection with local artisans is a small victory for the local community.

A Personal Perspective

On a more personal note, we sometimes drive 12 hours to see family at the holidays. Although this might seem like a long haul, it is significantly cheaper than air travel. With a dog, the expenses of air fare become especially high, and dog-sitting can be just as costly. So, for this trip, we save about 75 USD, which is more than the cost of a round-trip ticket.

Conclusion: Whether you are exploring far-off lands, visiting family, or just looking for a different kind of adventure, long-distance driving offers a unique and enriching experience. The cost-effectiveness, the joy of discovery, and the quality time spent with loved ones make it a compelling choice for many.