Going on a road trip in an electric car can feel stressful if you’re unsure how or where to charge. You might worry about running out of power far from the nearest station. But with a little planning, charging becomes part of your journey—not a roadblock.
You can charge an electric car on a road trip by using public charging stations along highways or in cities, and by planning your route with tools like Google Maps or PlugShare. Most EVs can charge from 20% to 80% in 30–45 minutes at DC fast chargers. Always bring a Level 2 portable EV charger as a backup, especially in remote areas or hotels.
Charging doesn’t need to disrupt your trip. With smart planning and the right tools, it can actually add convenience to your journey. Let’s break it down, step by step.
Can you go on a long road trip with an electric car?
The idea of going hundreds of miles in an EV still makes some drivers nervous.
Yes, you can go on a long road trip with an electric car, as long as you plan your route around charging stations and make time for 30–45 minute charging stops every few hours.
It’s not just possible—it can be more enjoyable. EV road trips often include regular breaks, which help reduce driving fatigue. Since you’ll likely stop every 2–3 hours to charge, you naturally build in rest time, which keeps the trip more comfortable.
Modern EVs have enough range for most highways. Charging networks like Tesla Superchargers or Electrify America cover long stretches and make the process simple. But when you’re in remote areas, always double-check your charger options in advance and leave some power in reserve.
How to plan an EV road trip？
If you drive a gas car, you might not think twice about where to stop. But with an EV, each stop needs more thought.
Plan your EV road trip by checking your car’s range, mapping out fast-charging stations, and syncing your stops with meals or rest breaks. Apps like PlugShare and A Better Route Planner help avoid charger gaps.
Start with your EV’s range. Most modern electric cars cover 200 to 350 miles on a full charge, but you shouldn’t use 100% of that. Always keep a 15%–20% buffer in case a charger is down or hard to find.
Trip-planning apps let you plot your route around reliable chargers. These apps also show if stations are in use, broken, or cost money. Some even let you sort by charging speed 1.
Staying overnight? Choose a hotel with a charger. This saves you from looking for one late at night and lets you wake up to a full battery.
Where can you charge your EV on a road trip?
You may be surprised how many places offer EV charging if you know where to look.
You can charge your EV at highway rest areas 2, large retail centers, hotels, and public charging hubs in cities. Use apps to check charger status, speed, and location before you go.
The best places to charge are often near the same stops you’d take anyway—places to eat, rest, or shop. Highway rest stops usually have DC fast chargers for quick stops. Shopping centers often have both fast and slower chargers, which is helpful during lunch or shopping breaks.
Hotels are perfect for overnight charging with Level 2 stations. In cities, garages and public parking often include charging stalls. Some chargers are even built into street parking spots, especially in EV-friendly areas.
Using apps like PlugShare or ChargePoint helps you find real-time data—so you’re not guessing.
How long does it take to charge an electric vehicle on a road trip?
Charging speed can change your whole schedule, especially on long drives.
It usually takes 30–45 minutes to charge most EVs from 20% to 80% at a DC fast charger. Level 2 chargers take longer—usually between 4 and 10 hours—depending on your battery size.
DC fast chargers are made for road trips. They’re often found at rest stops or shopping centers, making it easy to eat or stretch while your EV charges. The 20% to 80% range is key because most chargers slow down after 80% 3 to protect the battery.
Level 2 chargers are best for overnight use at hotels, rental homes, or RV parks. You’ll want to avoid relying on them for mid-day top-ups unless you’re taking a long break.
Level 1 charging—plugging into a standard outlet—is far too slow for road trips. Only use it as a last resort.
Should you carry a portable EV charger on a road trip?
Even with good planning, things can go wrong. That’s why it’s smart to be ready.
Yes, you should bring a portable EV charger on a road trip. It’s a backup you can use at hotels, rental homes, or places without public chargers.
Portable chargers let you plug into a 240V outlet 4 (like those used for dryers or RVs). Many vacation rentals, RV parks, and even some farms have these outlets. If you don’t have access to a fast charger, this lets you recharge overnight.
This can also save your trip if a charger is broken or busy. You won’t need it every day, but when you do, it can make all the difference. Just make sure to check what kind of outlets are available where you’re staying.
Can a portable EV charger replace public charging stations?
Some drivers hope that bringing a charger means they won’t need public stations.
No, a portable EV charger cannot replace public charging stations. It charges slowly and needs the right outlet, so it only works as a backup.
Portable chargers are helpful, but they’re not fast enough to keep up with long road trips. A DC fast charger gives you 150+ miles in under an hour. A portable charger may take 6–10 hours to do the same job.
And not all places have the right kind of outlet. You can’t just plug in anywhere. So while a portable charger is useful, it’s not your main power source. Think of it like a spare tire—it’s great when something goes wrong, but it won’t replace your actual wheels.
Best portable EV chargers for road trips
If you’re bringing a portable charger, you want one that’s powerful, reliable, and easy to carry.
BESEN Level 2 portable EV chargers are designed for EV owners who need reliable charging on the go. You can keep one in your trunk and simply plug it into any compatible outlet to start charging—no setup, no hassle.
For example, the BESEN BN20 delivers up to 3.6kW, making it ideal for overnight charging at hotels or rental homes. It charges steadily while you sleep, so you’re ready to hit the road the next morning.
On the other hand, the BESEN BN70 offers up to 22kW of power, perfect for road trips where faster charging matters. With the right outlet, it helps reduce charging time during rest stops, so you can get back on the road quickly and with confidence.
Conclusion
Charging your electric car on a road trip isn’t hard once you know how. Use fast chargers along the highway, plan your route with apps, and always carry a portable Level 2 charger just in case. With these steps, you can enjoy the road without worrying about your battery.
READ ON:
Is It a Must to Have a Portable EV Charger With You?
Power On The Go: What is Portable Electric Car Chargers?
Are Charging Stations for Electric Cars Free?
Tesla: Leading The Charge In The Electric Vehicle Era
- Understanding charging speed can help you plan your stops better and make your trip more efficient.[↩]
- Discover the best resources for finding EV charging stations at highway rest areas, ensuring a smooth road trip experience.[↩]
- Understanding why charging slows after 80% helps you optimize your EV’s battery life and plan better for road trips.[↩]
- Understanding 240V outlets is crucial for EV owners, as they enable faster charging options, enhancing your road trip experience.[↩]
