The NL Road Trip Checklist
Newfoundland and Labrador has many hidden gems nestled in bays around the province, and whether you're a resident of the province looking for a new adventure or a visitor looking for that memorable vacation, there are lots to see and do here, and chances are, you'll be driving.
There are thousands of kilometres of roads in the province and regardless of the season, the weather can vary quite a bit. There are other things to consider such as fueling locations and lodging. Here is the ultimate road trip checklist for Newfoundland and Labrador.
Aside from the typical things you'll need such as a full tank of gas, fluids topped up, and a spare tire, you'll need to take some extra things into account when driving across the province.
It's huge
If you happen not to be from here, you'll need to understand just how big Newfoundland and Labrador is. The province is 405,212 km². For comparison, it is more than three times the total area of the Maritime Provinces.
Many have made the mistake of underestimating how big it is. You can't visit Gros Morne in the morning and explore the Downtown Pedestrian Mall in St. John's in the evening. If you plan to visit, allow at least a day to drive across the Island or Labrador and another day to drive back.
From Port aux Basques to St. John's it's 900 km and from Goose Bay to Wabush it's 534 km.
The weather changes... a lot
We like to say in Newfoundland and Labrador that if you don't like the weather, wait five minutes. The weather changes a lot. If you're travelling, you'll want to pack for changing weather over short distances. In the summer months, St. John's could be covered in fog and cool but head to Conception Bay South and you'll need to swap sweaters for t-shirts.
In the Fall you'll need to be mindful of hurricanes, nor'easters, and the odd snowstorm.
Spring can also bring snow. In parts of Labrador, it sometimes snows in the summer months. If you are visiting check the weather for each place you plan to visit, and check often.
In the winter a snowstorm can shut down travel for days.
Plan ahead
It is impossible to see and do everything in Newfoundland and Labrador in one trip. If you are targeting just one specific area, plan your trip ahead of time. Create a list of places you'd like to visit and things you'd like to do. You can check out top destinations here (external link) or pick up the Traveller's Guide.
Take a map
Most inhabited areas of Newfoundland and Labrador have cell phone service, but several places do not. Apps like Google Maps and the NL 511 app are great to have, but when you lose service in some areas, you'll want an old-fashioned paper map.
Most of all, if you are travelling throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, have fun!
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