Road Trip – Florida to California

I always had this dream of visiting the USA, but I was not content to go there and discover just one region or city. That's when the idea of doing this Road Trip across the US from Florida to California came up and getting to know as many places as possible.

The problem was finding someone available to do this for me. However, as I was very keen to make this dream come true, I decided to go alone, without knowing anyone or if I wanted to go to the USA.

Planning for a trip to the USA

I had saved 10 thousand reais for the trip (it was this or wait another year saving money). The dollar was between R$ 3.50 to R$ 3.70, with this I could not have much luxury on the trip.

I did a lot of research on sleeping in the car, fuel price and etc…

After a few weeks of researching, I realized that it was possible with the money I had. So the first step was to wait for some airfare promotion to appear.

It didn't take long to get a flight for 1,200.00 reais to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Then I went looking for a car rental, which cost me 2,800.00 reais.

These amounts were still paid in Brazil, even the car rental.

The trip from Florida to California

Arriving in the USA, I took the rented car and left for the road. But before heading to California, I got to know a little bit of Florida (Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Cocoa Beach and region).

Two days later, I began my journey towards the Grand Canyon, Arizona. Driving an average of 800 km a day, I got to him after 3 days of travel.

When I came across the Grand Canyon, a tear ran down my face along with a feeling that the trip was already “paid for” and with interest. The place is spectacular, a must-stop for anyone who wants to do this Road Trip.

The other day on my way to Las Vegas, I stopped by the Hoover Dam (Arizona and Nevada border). An amazing place that is also worth a stop.

Arriving in Las Vegas, I had the luxury of staying in a hotel. As most of them have casinos, the daily rate is extremely cheap compared to other hotels.

Two days after making the most of Las Vegas, I got back on the road crossing the desert and reaching my destination.

Upon arriving in Los Angeles I had some problems delivering the car and returning to Fort Lauderdale by plane, so I had to go all the way back, but that is for another Post…

How did I manage to save money?

– More than 50% of the nights I slept in the car. Parked in RestAreas or Walmart. 

-I didn't eat in restaurants (except for Fast Food, restaurants are extremely expensive)

I think this is a brief summary of how this Road Trip went. It was the best thing I've done in my life and I hope I can be encouraging someone else to do the same.

What did you think of my experience? If you have any questions, comment here and I'll be happy to help you!

Enjoy and read our other articles:

Things to do in Venice Beach, California

Facts about the USA

Places to enjoy winter in Brazil

Tourist places – 10 incredible itineraries in Brazil