As you drive across the country, you will find that there is a map for everything from local towns to whole states to even regions. What level of detail is right for you, which maps should you buy, and which maps should you be able to find for free? Consider this section as Maps Skills 101: designed to help figure out what you must know about maps.

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Deciding on your scale

An easy way to think about the scale of your map is how much you detail you will see. The maps scale is usually referenced on the bottom or in the corners of your map and probably contains both a visual version as well as numerical version. The larger the scale (e.g.. 1:300,000 ... or once inch on your map is actually 300,000 (~4.75 miles) inches on the real world), the less detail you will see as more area that will be "squeezed" onto your map. The smaller the scale (e.g.. 1:24,000 ... or one inch on your map is actually equal to 24,000 inches (~.38 miles) on the real world), the more detail you will see on the map as it will encompass less area. So, how do you decide what you want: a large or a small scale? Well it depends on what you want to use the map for. The following chart may help you decide on the appropriate scale for your specific use.



Generally, it is a good idea to have...

There are some essential maps which everyone should bring on their roadtrip. The following list attempts to summarize many of the map types with "must-have maps" indicated with ***. The list goes in order of increased detail and decreased scale. Different activities require different maps.

  • ***National Road Atlas***:These atlases tend to cover the entirety of the US and Canada. They also include moderately scaled maps of each state. The atlas is good enough to get you through a state, but not enough to help you find the hidden gems. For that, you needed a better map~
  • Regional Maps:Great for getting an overview, but not essential. These maps are helpful when deciding on interstate routes, but tend to fail when you wish to travel on local roads.
  • ***State Maps***:A must for every state that you intend to do more than just pass through. The details on this type of map are good enough for you to be able to identify parks and attractions, but still not close up enough to find the true hidden gems.
  • State Atlas:There are a number of state atlases on the market, however, purchasing one for every state can get mighty expensive. CollegeRoadTrip.com recommends purchasing these atlases for states that you plan to visit for extended periods of time and wish to discover in detail. These atlases tend to show every road available, including the dirt roads, making them great sources for finding hidden places, curvy roads and must see attractions.
  • BLM & Forest Maps:This varied and large series maps are specifically catered to outdoors, geology, off-roading and other specific interests. They are available at Ranger Stations and BLM offices and are useful if you are planing an extended trip or stay within the bounds of these national lands. The maps are great for off-roading but leave something to be desired if you are planning on hiking.
  • USGS 1:24000 Quads:This extremely detailed map show many if not all existing features from contour lines (elevation levels) to houses. They are the perfect level of detail if you plan on hiking or biking and even canoeing but are too much if you are driving through the area (unless you are off-roading).

Is it free, or is it not?

Yes, there is such a thing as a free map, you just have to know where to find it. Preparing in advance can save you money and time when you are looking for a specific map! Check out CollegeRoadTrip.com's Map Link Section for information on where to purchase specific maps.

  • ***National Road Atlas***:These atlases tend to run somewhere between $10 and $20. They are well worth shelling out the cash though, as they help save time and money and ensure that you won't get really lost~
  • Regional Maps:Some membership organizations (AAA) distribute regional maps free to members, otherwise expect to pay $2 to $4 a piece
  • ***State Maps***:By contacting each state or stopping into travel / tourism offices, you can get decent state maps for free. Some membership organizations (AAA) distribute state maps free to members which is a great opportunity as they are laid out uniformly, otherwise expect to pay $2 to $5 a piece
  • State Atlas:These are a bit costly. Expect to pay $14-$22 a piece (per state). Delorme makes a wonderful Atlas & Gazetteer Series which is extremely helpful.
  • BLM & Forest Maps:Some Forest Service and BLM offices offer some less detailed maps for free. Otherwise expect to pay anywhere from $2 to $8 for these maps depending on the maps content, size and detail.
  • USGS 1:24000 Quads:These maps are available from many locations across the country and run anywhere from $2 to $5 depending on your location.

Overkill... you really don't need that much!

What should you buy? Well, to start with you should definitely have a North American Road Atlas containing individual state and provincial maps as well as maps of Canada, the US and Mexico. Regional maps are a plus as they provide added detail when deciding on which route to take... they give the big, but not too big picture. Definitely get state maps for those states you want to do more in that just pass through. Those are your essentials!

If know you want to spend more time in some states and feel you need detailed information, go ahead and purchase the detailed state atlases, as they can only help and not hinder. These maps are truly wonderful and it is really fun to follow along in them as your drive your route. The more detailed maps (Forest, BLM and USGS, etc.) are great to get in advance, but not necessary. If you are planning an extended back country trip where you must ration food and have everything planned in advance, go ahead and purchase a number of these detailed maps to help your planning and provide guidance along the way.