SF to Miami in December

[Tjeerd]

Dear Readers,

My girlfriend and I are planning a road trip from San Fransico to Miami in December this year. We have around 26 days. High level plan is to first drive south on road 1, next Death Valley, Vegas, Grand Canyon, ..., Austin, Houston, New Orleans, Tampa. We have a few questions:

1. How is this route like in December? I believe weather can be quite different in the different states. Will all parks be open?

2. RV or car? From convenience and cost perspective. We always thought RV, but perhaps December is not the best month for a camper.

3. What are nice places along this route, aside from the ones i mentioned?

Hopefully you can help me out.

Many thanks!

Tjeerd

[Southwest Dave]

Hello and welcome to the RTA forums !

The weather being what it is, totally unpredictable, you have to expect anything and everything on your trip. You will pass through different climates when crossing the country and in changes in elevation, but by doing a little research on climate data you should get an idea of what is to be expected and where. The actual weather, you will have to find out as you go and keep up to date with travel conditions.

If you were thinking of an RV in terms of convenience and cost then I would forget it. The cost for 2 travellers would be greater than a car and Motels by the time you have added high fuel costs and campground fees etc. You can't just park anywhere and would need to find designated places to park up for the night, the same as you would have to search for a Motel. They are bigger and slower than a car and not City friendly. If it's a lifestyle choice you are after they can be great, but perhaps not in December. BTW, this is from someone who loves to travel by RV ! ;-)

You need a large detailed map of the US and research the forums and road trip planning pages above where you will find thousands of idea. You can create routes in the Map centre and find attractions along those routes. Once you have done some research and have more questions, just ask. Enjoy the planning !

[Tjeerd]

Dear Dave,

Thank you for your reply. Obviously I need to dive into the whole planning/preparation. This didn't stop me from already booking the tickets though... End of year tickets are getting short.

Your input on the transportation was usefull.

I will work on a detailed planning and if some more question pop up I will for sure ask!

Thanks

Tjeerd

[Southwest Dave]

There is no such thing as a silly question in my book, how else do we learn !

All your questions are very common when it comes to opening road trip discussions and we are here to help you through the process, so no need to feel "silly."

I will work on a detailed planning and if some more question pop up I will for sure ask!

Good, good, don't be shy ! ;-) Enjoy RTA and when new questions come up, just ask.

Dave.