Welcome to Backroad Planet!
I’m Howard, a guy from Central Florida who believes taking scenic routes, scouting historical sites, and immersion in local flavor are the best ways to travel. Whether it be road trips across America, fly-drives to international destinations, or cruises on the mighty waters, I invite you to use Backroad Planet’s destination stories, travel guides, and planning resources to design your own adventures. Please contact me if I can assist you in any way.
Catch you on the backroads . . . .
Recent Posts
8 Reasons Yellowstone Should Be on Your 2026 Travel List
Yellowstone spans more than 2.2 million acres across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, sitting above one of the most geologically active hotspots on the planet. Boiling water erupts from the ground on schedule. Wolves cross open meadows at dawn. Bison wander the roads with...
9 Ways a Yellowstone Eruption Could Change Travel in the U.S.
Beneath the geysers and sprawling meadows of Yellowstone National Park sits one of the most powerful volcanic systems on Earth. The Yellowstone Caldera, a supervolcano covering roughly 1,500 square miles across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, last erupted at full...
8 Cruise Check-In Rules for 2026 That Travelers Need to Know
In 2026, cruise check-in procedures have become far more structured across the industry. Passengers now face tighter deadlines, digital boarding systems, biometric screening, and stricter document requirements before reaching the ship. Skip even one piece? That could...
design your own Road trip
No Results Found
The page you requested could not be found. Try refining your search, or use the navigation above to locate the post.
OCEAN & RIVER CRUISES
13 Things to Know About the NCL Jade Cruise Experience
A Backroad Planet baker’s dozen of candid observations and random reflections from repeat sailings aboard the Norwegian Jade cruise ship.
Cruising with NCL: An Insider Guide
Cruising with NCL just got easier with this Backroad Planet collection of tips, tricks, and opinions compiled by two avid Norwegian Cruise Line insiders.
15 Things to Know About the NCL Bliss Cruise Experience
A list of random observations and candid reflections from a 15-day Panama Canal sailing aboard the Norwegian Bliss cruise ship.
ROAD TRIP PLANNING RESOURCES
Scenic American highways every road trip lover should drive once
America’s highways were built for more than simply reaching destinations; they were designed to connect travelers with landscapes, small towns, and unforgettable scenery. Some roads have become legendary because the drive itself feels like part of the vacation. From...
Best road trip cars that make long drives feel effortless
Road trip comfort in 2026 is no longer just about having a car that drives well; it’s about fuel efficiency, cabin comfort, cargo space, and driver assistance tech that reduces fatigue on long highways. The best road trip cars today are designed to handle hours of...
America’s weirdest roadside attractions still drawing crowds
Roadside attractions have been part of American travel culture for generations. From giant sculptures to unusual museums, these quirky stops continue to entertain travelers looking for something unexpected during long road trips. Many of these attractions became...
AUTOMOTIVE RESOURCES
How To Prepare Your Car For Summer
Before you head out on a summer road trip, get your car in top-notch shape with these essential vehicle maintenance tips.
How to Choose the Best Car for Your Cross-Country Road Trip
Gas mileage, storage space, and extra features are all important considerations when purchasing a new vehicle for a cross-country road trip.
How to Get Your Vehicle Road Trip Ready
Don’t let emergency breakdowns spoil your vacation! Get your vehicle road trip ready with this handy pre-trip checklist.