Rick Steves Shared His Top Tip For Anyone Going On A Road Trip

When it comes to travel advice, there are few voices as trusted and influential as Rick Steves. Travel writer, television personality, and globetrotter extraordinaire, Steves has spent decades exploring the world and sharing his insights with other globetrotters eager to hit the ground running. From talking about the biggest tourist traps in Europe to sharing his top tips for making every trip a little easier to handle, to helping travelers learn about the ins and outs of budget-friendly European adventures, Steves is a treasure trove filled with all sorts of wisdom, suggestions, and practical advice.

Given all of that, it's no surprise that the expert traveler would have even more tips regarding how to make the most of your travels — including some that don't make it onto his show. In a video of clips cut from Steves' PBS series, he gave a tip specifically aimed at road-trippers looking to transform their car journey. His advice? Don't just drive through your destinations — or, worse, stick only to the parking lots at tourist hotspots and scenic overlooks. Instead, Steves recommends that you stretch your legs: "Walk for 100 yards and get away from the crowds," he says. Per the expert, going just a little out of your and the multitudes' way could reward you with the unexpected: "A quiet and unforgettable moment" that's totally crowd-free.

Here's the thing: Steves' advice to take a short walk during a road trip pitstop isn't just about stretching your legs — it's about adding a little something new to the entire experience. After all, by stepping away from your car and venturing away from the tourist hotspots on foot, you're essentially opening yourself up to a world of experiences that you'd probably miss out on from behind the wheel. Plus, these brief excursions might also allow you to discover hidden gems that aren't visible from main roads — from charming cafés to local art installations or a breathtaking viewpoint that's completely off the beaten path.

Aside from enriching your travel experience, taking short walks can also be beneficial to your physical and mental well-being during long drives. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, "drowsy driving" — aka, driving while fatigued — leads to more than 90,000 accidents a year, with nearly 800 of these resulting in deaths. Luckily, planning for rest stops during a long road trip takes the risk out of the situation, and at the same time, helps combat the fatigue and stiffness associated with extended periods of sitting down. Better yet, walking also helps to improve circulation and energy levels — which is a double-win in terms of safety and comfort. Mentally, these breaks — especially in nature — can also help refresh your mind, reduce stress, and boost your overall enjoyment.

If all of this is starting to sound good, you're in luck: Steves' tip doesn't require a major overhaul of your upcoming travel plans. First things first, you'll want to make sure you build extra time into your itinerary. To do this, research potential stopping points along your route with safe and interesting areas for walking, and then simply factor them into your plans. Whether it's exploring a small town off the beaten path, checking out a state park you've never been to, or making a detour at a rest area connected to a local nature trail, there are plenty of options to add a little something unknown to your road trip.

Beyond that — and to make sure the experience is as enjoyable as possible — it's also worth planning ahead in terms of your on-the-go essentials. For example, have a pair of comfortable walking shoes at hand so you'll always be prepared for an impromptu excursion. It's also a good idea to have a small backpack with water and snacks, as well as access to an offline map of the surrounding area, to ensure you're prepared and won't get unexpectedly lost.

Lastly, don't be afraid to be spontaneous! If you pass by an intriguing area, simply pull over (safely), grab your things, and go. Remember, the goal here isn't necessarily to hike for miles — it's to step away from the over-hyped tourist zones and experience something a little unique. And you know what they say: The best adventures often happen when you least expect them.