There’s nothing like a spontaneous weekend road trip to reset your mind, and for many LA locals, Phoenix has become the go-to getaway. It’s close enough to hit the road after work on a Friday, yet far enough to feel like you’ve escaped the city grind. Between the desert sunsets, the endless stars, and Arizona’s booming food scene, it’s easy to see why more Angelenos are heading east for a little R&R.
But before you throw your bags in the backseat and queue up the playlist, it’s worth knowing a few things about this drive. The road from Los Angeles to Phoenix may be a straight shot, but it’s still a stretch of desert highway, and the desert plays by its own rules.
Here’s how to make your LA-to-Phoenix road trip both smooth and safe.
1. Choose Your Route (and Your Timing) Wisely
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