Planning your own surfing road trip is one of the most exciting and daunting things you can do. Trust me, I’ve been there—piles of maps, endless Google searches, and way too many “what if” scenarios running through my head. But having gone through it, I’ve learned a few things that can help make the process smoother, more fun, and way less stressful.
First off, know your priorities. Are you chasing big waves? Exploring off-the-beaten-path spots? Trying to surf as many places as possible? Figure that out first because it’ll shape everything else—your route, your budget, and even the type of vehicle you’ll need. For me, the goal was simple: surf all fifty states. That meant I had to be super flexible about the kinds of waves I’d be riding—rivers, lakes, wave pools, you name it. If your focus is more traditional, like hitting the best breaks on the coast, your planning will look completely different.
Next, map out your route, but leave room for spontaneity. This one’s huge. It’s tempting to plan every single detail down to the hour, but trust me, that’s not realistic—and it’s not as fun. Waves are unpredictable, weather changes, and sometimes you stumble across a spot that’s too good to pass up. I recommend starting with a rough outline: highlight your must-surf destinations, but leave gaps for unexpected detours. Apps like Google Maps or Roadtrippers are great for plotting things out, but don’t let them dictate your every move.
Pack smart, not heavy. This might be the hardest part, especially if you’re like me and tend to overpack “just in case.” The reality is, you don’t need as much as you think. For surfing, a good wetsuit (or two, depending on the climates you’re visiting), a durable board, wax, and a repair kit are essentials. Beyond that, think minimal. Clothes that can handle a range of weather, a basic first aid kit, and a few tools for your car should cover you. Oh, and snacks. So many snacks. Because nothing kills the vibe like being hangry on a long drive.
Do your research, but don’t overthink it. I can’t tell you how many hours I spent googling things like “surfing in Iowa” before I hit the road. And while research is important—especially if you’re venturing into non-traditional surf spots—there’s only so much you can plan for. Local knowledge is priceless, so when you get to a new place, don’t be afraid to ask around. Surf shops, marinas, even random folks at the beach or lake can point you in the right direction. Some of the best spots I found weren’t on any map—they were recommendations from people I met along the way.
Budget wisely. Surfing road trips can get expensive fast, especially if you’re covering a lot of ground. Gas, food, accommodations, and entry fees for parks or wave pools all add up. To save money, consider camping whenever possible. Not only is it cheaper, but it also adds to the adventure. Apps like iOverlander or The Dyrt can help you find free or cheap camping spots. And for food, keep it simple: a small cooler and a camp stove can save you from eating out every meal.
Be prepared for all kinds of conditions. This one’s especially important if you’re surfing in diverse climates. You might be in a wetsuit one week and board shorts the next. In colder states, make sure you’ve got the right gear to handle freezing water temps. And always check the weather before heading out—trust me, getting caught in a thunderstorm while trying to surf a lake is no joke.
Stay flexible with your board. If you’re sticking to the ocean, you can probably get by with one or two boards. But if you’re venturing into rivers or wave pools, you might need something specific, like a shorter board for tighter waves. And if you don’t want to lug multiple boards around, look into renting or borrowing gear at certain stops. It’s not ideal for every situation, but it can lighten your load.
Document the journey. Whether it’s a journal, photos, or videos, make sure you capture the experience. Not just the surfing, but the in-between moments too—the road, the people you meet, the places you stay. These little details are what make the trip memorable. And if you’re sharing your adventure online or with friends, those stories will be just as interesting as the waves you caught.
Finally, embrace the unexpected. Things will go wrong. You’ll miss swells, hit traffic, or arrive somewhere only to find out the conditions are terrible. But honestly? Those moments are part of the adventure. Some of my favorite memories from this trip came from the times when nothing went according to plan. Like getting skunked in Nebraska and ending up at a random roadside diner where I met the sweetest family who told me stories about the area.
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