Are you planning a road trip from Phoenix to San Diego? This is a fantastic route to take and there are plenty of things to see and do along the way.
To help you prepare for your trip we’ve put together a handy guide with everything you need to know.
Keep reading for our top tips on how to make the most of your journey from Phoenix to San Diego.
- Choose your route
There are a few different ways to get from Phoenix to San Diego so it’s worth taking some time to map out your route in advance.
The most direct route is via I-8 which takes around 11 hours to drive.
However if you’re looking to explore some of the attractions along the way you might want to take a more scenic route.
One option is to take I-10 west to Los Angeles and then head south on I-5 to San Diego.
This route takes a bit longer (around 13 hours) but it’s a great way to see some of southern California’s major cities.
- Make sure your car is in good condition
Before embarking on a long road trip it’s essential to make sure your car is in good condition.
This means getting a tune-up checking your tires and making sure all your fluids are topped off.
You should also pack a roadside emergency kit just in case.
- Plan your stops
One of the best things about a road trip is the freedom to stop whenever and wherever you want.
However it’s still a good idea to plan your stops in advance especially if you’re traveling with young children.
There are plenty of great places to stop between Phoenix and San Diego including the Petrified Forest National Park the Grand Canyon and Joshua Tree National Park.
You can find a full list of attractions here.
- Pack your snacks
No road trip is complete without snacks so be sure to pack plenty of food and drinks for the journey.
This will help you save money and it’s also a great way to avoid getting hangry (hungry + angry).
- Don’t forget your camera
There are plenty of photo opportunities along the way so don’t forget to pack your camera (or your smartphone).
From the majestic landscapes of the national parks to the bustling streets of Los Angeles there are plenty of memories to be made on this road trip.
We hope you have a fantastic time on your journey from Phoenix to San Diego.
If you have any tips of your own be sure to share them in the comments below.
Phoenix To San Diego Distance:
On a car the distance is 5 hr 20 min (354.6 mi) via I-8 W.
Road Trip From Phoenix To San Diego: Gas Stations On The Way
If you’re driving from Phoenix to San Diego you’ll definitely want to plan ahead and know where the gas stations are along the way.
Here’s a helpful guide to gas stations on the way from Phoenix to San Diego.
Starting in Phoenix there are a few gas stations right off the I-10.
The first one is the QuikTrip at 27th Ave and I-10.
This QuikTrip has been voted the best gas station in America multiple times so you know you’re getting quality gas here.
Next up is the Shell station at Buckeye Rd and I-10.
This is a great place to stop for gas as it’s right next to the freeway and has a wide variety of gas and diesel options.
Once you get past Buckeye Rd the next gas station isn’t for another 30 miles.
This is the Chevron at Toole Ave and I-10.
This Chevron is open 24 hours so it’s a great option if you’re driving late at night or early in the morning.
After the Chevron you’ll have to wait for another 40 miles before the next gas station.
This one is the Mobil at Barstow Rd and I-10.
This is a great place to stop as it has a convenience store attached where you can grab snacks and drinks for the road.
The last gas station before you reach San Diego is the Shell at San Bernardino Rd and I-10.
This Shell has a car wash attached so you can get your car cleaned up before you reach your final destination.
Hopefully this guide to gas stations on the way from Phoenix to San Diego was helpful! Be sure to plan ahead and fill up your tank before you start your journey.
How To Hire A Car For A Road Trip From Phoenix To San Diego
If you’re planning a road trip from Phoenix to San Diego you’ll need to rent a car.
Here’s what you need to know to make sure you get the best deal on your rental car.
First decide what kind of car you need.
If you’re just driving yourself and a few friends a small sedan or SUV should be plenty of space.
But if you’re bringing the whole family or a group of friends you’ll need a larger vehicle.
Once you know what kind of car you need start shopping around for the best deal.
Check out online car rental sites like Expedia Travelocity or Budget to see what kind of rates they’re offering.
Also be sure to call around to different car rental companies in the Phoenix area to see what deals they’re offering.
Once you’ve found the best deal on a rental car make sure you understand the terms and conditions of the rental agreement.
Read over the agreement carefully before you sign it.
And finally when you’re ready to hit the road be sure to drive safely and have a great trip!
Road Trip From Phoenix To San Diego: Attractions To See On The Way
If you’re looking for a fun road trip from Phoenix to San Diego there are plenty of attractions to see along the way.
Here are just a few of the highlights:
The Grand Canyon:
One of the Seven Wonders of the World the Grand Canyon is a must-see for anyone visiting Arizona.
With its stunning landscape and vast size it’s no wonder this natural wonder is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state.
Sedona:
Known for its red rocks and beautiful scenery Sedona is a popular spot for hiking biking and other outdoor activities.
There are also plenty of great restaurants and shops to check out in this vibrant city.
Flagstaff:
Nestled in the mountains of northern Arizona Flagstaff is a great place to escape the heat of the desert.
In addition to its cool temperatures Flagstaff is also home to a number of interesting museums and historic sites.
Jerome:
A former mining town Jerome is now a popular destination for art lovers and history buffs.
This quaint town is filled with charming shops and galleries and its steep streets offer stunning views of the surrounding area.
Prescott:
Prescott is the perfect place to stop for a bite to eat or a cold drink.
This quaint town is home to a number of great restaurants and bars and its lively downtown area is perfect for exploring on foot.
Once you reach San Diego you’ll find plenty of things to do and see.
From the world-famous San Diego Zoo to the beautiful beaches there’s something for everyone in this sunny city.
Road Trip From Phoenix To San Diego: What Hotels To Stay In?
There’s no shortage of incredible hotels to stay in when taking a road trip from Phoenix to San Diego.
Depending on your budget and preferences you could stay in a luxurious resort a quaint bed and breakfast or even a roadside motel.
If you’re looking for a luxurious resort to relax in the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix is a great option.
This historic hotel has been around since 1929 and features stunning Art Deco architecture.
The hotel has two 18-hole golf courses seven swimming pools and a spa.
For a more budget-friendly option the Days Inn San Diego Hotel Circle Near Seaworld is a great choice.
This hotel is just a short drive from all of the major attractions in San Diego including SeaWorld the San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park.
The hotel offers free breakfast and Wi-Fi and there’s even an outdoor pool.
If you’re looking for a unique experience the El Fandango Bed and Breakfast in Julian California is a great option.
This bed and breakfast is located in a historic gold mining town and is surrounded by beautiful mountains.
The bed and breakfast have six rooms each with its own private bathroom.
No matter what kind of hotel you’re looking for there’s sure to be a perfect option for your road trip from Phoenix to San Diego.