Plan your ultimate April 8 solar eclipse road trip with our comprehensive guide.
Discover worthy destinations, top travel tips, safety advice, and more for an unforgettable experience.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, Indianapolis, Cleveland, and Buffalo are top picks for witnessing the eclipse within the path of totality.
Flights and accommodations are filling up fast. Driving and staying with friends or family could be practical alternatives.
Maintain safety by keeping headlights on, not wearing eclipse glasses while driving, and avoiding stopping on busy roads to watch the eclipse.
Excitement Building for the Total Solar Eclipse on April 8th
The total solar eclipse on April 8 is fast approaching. For many, the excitement is already building for an extraordinary celestial event where the Moon will obscure the Sun, casting a shadow across the Earth.
This natural spectacle will cast a shadow across a path from Texas to Maine, offering a unique experience of darkness in the middle of the day for those in this path of totality.
If you won’t be around these areas, you’ll need to travel to witness this breathtaking event​​, as it will be the last total solar eclipse to hit the US for two decades.
Choosing Your 2024 Total Eclipse Road Trip Destination
Popular destinations within the path of totality include Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio, as well as Indianapolis, Cleveland, and Buffalo in New York.
These cities are seeing significant interest from eclipse watchers, with Dallas experiencing a considerable increase in car reservations compared to the previous year.
Getting There and Accommodations
Hotels and Airbnbs are quickly being reserved, and prices in popular cities like Dallas, San Antonio, and Austin have soared. Car reservations have spiked six times in Dallas alone compared to last year.
To save on costs, consider staying with friends or family if possible.
Planning Your Travel Time
The eclipse falls on a Monday, prompting many to extend their weekend for this event.
Traffic is expected to be heavier than usual, especially on the preceding Saturday, April 6, due to a reported 3,000% increase in car rental bookings for cities in the path of totality.
Plus, many students will be on spring break, so planning your departure in advance can help you avoid jam-packed traffic​​​​.
Safety Tips for Road Travel
Safety should be a top priority during your 2024 Eclipse road trip. Here are some important tips to keep in mind:
- Keep your vehicle headlights on to ensure visibility.
- Use the sun visor to block direct sunlight.
- Avoid wearing eclipse glasses while driving to maintain clear vision.
- Refrain from attempting to photograph or video the eclipse while driving.
- Do not pull over on the side of roads, highways, or interstates to view the eclipse.
- Only view the eclipse when you’re in a safe area away from all the traffic.
- Be mindful of pedestrians who might be distracted by the eclipse​​​​.
Don’t Miss out on the 2024 Total Eclipse
This year’s eclipse offers a rare opportunity to witness an awe-inspiring natural event. With careful planning, consideration for safety, and a sense of adventure, you too can create a memorable experience.
Remember, the next total solar eclipse visible from the United States won’t occur for another 20 years, so don’t miss your chance to be part of this historic event.
Safe travels and clear skies!
