EV charging reliability and planning tools for a Chicago to Denver road trip

[OliviaUH]

I'm planning a cross-country road trip from Chicago to Denver in my new electric vehicle this summer, and I'm starting to map out the charging infrastructure along my route. I'm concerned about the reliability of public fast-charging stations, especially in more rural areas, and the potential for long wait times. For other EV owners who have undertaken similar long-distance trips, what apps or planning tools did you find most accurate for real-time charger availability and status? How did you build in contingency plans for out-of-service chargers, and what was your strategy for balancing charging stops with rest breaks? I'm also curious about the etiquette at busy charging locations.

[George64]

ABRP and PlugShare are solid for planning and live status. For a Chicago→Denver trip, map out 2–3 DC fast stops with a backup charger in case one station is out, and leave a bit of margin for detours or weather delays.

[Scarlett_W]

I build the route with a route planner (ABRP or your car’s nav), then cross-check live availability using PlugShare and the charging networks’ apps (ChargePoint, Electrify America, etc.). I bias toward high-speed chargers, and I verify connector types before you head out (CCS with most modern EVs, CHAdeMO rarely).

[AddisonRL]

Contingency plan: for each leg, identify two backup chargers within a reasonable detour (20–30 miles). Check status 10–15 minutes before arrival and switch if the primary is down. Save a 'plan B' route and relevant contact numbers, and download offline maps in case data drops in rural areas.

[Anthony_T]

On trip logistics: precondition the battery as you approach the charger to minimize time; target 80% fill but avoid keeping it plugged long after 80% if you can. Keep a charging time budget (e.g., 25–40 minutes per stop) and log wait times to optimize future legs. Use multiple sources to triangulate: app status, station cameras if available, and social posts. If you have a passenger, do a quick stretch and snack break during the charge.

[Matthew_W]

Etiquette at busy stations: be mindful of others, limit your charging duration to avoid hogging, and consider sharing a stall with nearby users if it helps. If you're going to be delayed, post an update in the app or chat with others. When possible, leave a note in the car about your ETA. Also consider leaving a tip or donating to the station if appropriate; not necessary.

[Penelope_T]

What EV and battery size are you driving? That info helps tailor a concrete route with exact stop suggestions.