How to Travel in Georgia

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Traveling throughout Georgia is a relatively easy thing to do. With mountains in the north and swamps and flatland to the south, along with miles of coastlines, the state offers plenty for the outdoors lover. From airports to roadways, the state has a comprehensive travel infrastructure in place to get you to these locations efficiently.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Highway Travel

Things You’ll Need:

Identification Maps Currency
Identification
Maps
Currency

Step 1

Research Georgia traffic laws. Most travelers use the interstate system to move in and around Georgia. The maximum speed limit on Georgia expressways is 70 mph. Seat belts are required for all front-seat passengers. If traveling by motorcycle, a helmet is also required.

Step 2

Plan your route. Georgia has two main north/south conduits. Interstate 95 runs along the eastern seaboard, and Interstate 75 goes through the middle of the state. Major east/west routes include Interstate 20 across the northern part of the state, Interstate 85 from the west to northeast, and Interstate 16 from Macon to Savannah.

Step 3

Consider alternative routes. If trying to get to that perfect outdoor spot in the mountains, along the coast or anywhere else, getting stuck in Atlanta traffic is not much fun. Using bypasses and belt loops around Atlanta and Macon can speed up travel time. Also, avoid mid-morning and late-afternoon rush hours around metropolitan areas on the weekdays.

Step 4

Watch for exits. Georgia's interstate system numbers exits according to mile markers. Ascending numbers go from the south to the north and from the west to the east.

Step 5

Be aware when driving in the mountains. Northern Georgia is near the southern terminus of the Appalachian Mountains. Though there are not many steep grades in the state, there are some, especially in rural areas. Good mountain-driving skills should be practiced.

Air Travel

Step 1

Choose the airport that's right for you. Atlanta lays claim to the busiest airport in the world. However, other airports also have commercial surface, such as Macon, Columbus and Savannah, just to name a few. Regional airports may get you closer to your destination but could also cost more than major hubs.

Step 2

Check airline requirements for special baggage. With the great variety of outdoor activities to enjoy in Georgia, such as fishing, golfing, hiking and mountain biking, airlines are accustomed to handling unusual and awkward baggage. However, additional rules or fees may apply.

Step 3

Go to the airport early, but expect delays. This is especially true if flying into the Hartsfield-Jackson Int'l Airport in Atlanta. As the world's busiest airport, it constantly ranks low in the percentage of flights that leave and arrive on time.

Tips & Warnings

Instead of carrying cash, credit cards may be a safer option.

Take care to avoid speeding because radar observation is common on Georgia highways. Be patient when driving through construction zones.

Take care to avoid speeding because radar observation is common on Georgia highways.

Be patient when driving through construction zones.

Resources

Article Written By Kenneth Black

Kenneth Black has been a freelance writer since 2008. He currently works as a staff writer for "The Times Republican" in Central Iowa. He has written extensively on a variety of topics, including business, politics, family life and travel. Black holds a bachelor's degree in business marketing from the University of Phoenix.

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