best road trip cars 2008

Vehicles listed in alphabetical order

“The concept of ‘the perfect road trip’ means different things to different people so our 2008 Top 10 Best New Road Trip Vehicles list includes vehicles that can accommodate as many as eight with the requisite level of style, comfort and convenience,” said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and market analyst for kbb.com. “While the current high fuel prices did influence our list, we also included a couple of cost-no-object choices.”

For more information visit Kelley Blue Book’s 2008 Best New Road Trip Vehicles .

Source: Kelley Blue Book

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The 10 Best Road Trip Cars for Open-Road Adventures

By: Tim Huber Published: Aug 16, 2023

In 1956, the U.S. government passed the Federal-Aid Highway Act, allocating $26B to construct an initial 41,000-mile interstate network . In response to the network’s construction, countless restaurants, motels, and roadside attractions would pop up along these now-iconic highways in order to cater to automotive travelers — ultimately kicking off a grand and long-held tradition of road tripping that’s as American as baseball or apple pie.

And while there are plenty of factors that can have an enormous impact on the overall quality of your time spent on the road — such as your starting point, ultimate destination, travel companions, and budget — the single biggest variable is undoubtedly one’s choice of ride. With the exception of a handful of new EVs , practically every car currently in production is more than capable of taking on cross-country touring duties, however, there’s a shortlist of models that objectively lend themselves to road-tripping far better than anything else on the market. And it’s this crop of vehicles that we’ll be exploring today in this guide to the best road trip cars you can buy — delving into the most capable long-distance cars available, along with what factors and qualities make a model ideal for long-haul travel.

The Best Road Trip Cars Rundown

Best Affordable Pick

Subaru Outback

Best Retro-Inspired

Ford Bronco Sport

Best Two-Door

Abarth 124GT

Best Long-Range Pick

Volvo XC60 Recharge

Best Full-Size SUV

Jeep Grand Wagoneer

Best Sport Wagon

Audi RS 6 Avant Performance

Porsche Taycan GTS Sport Turismo

Best Grand-Tourer

BMW ALPINA B8 xDrive Gran Coupe

Best Hybrid Pick

Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid

Best Mid-Sized SUV

Aston Martin DBX707

Cross-country capabilities.

What Factors Make For An Ideal Road Trip Car?

Though there are clearly several blatant areas to explore when buying a road trip-focused car — such as range, comfort, and cargo space — there’s also a myriad of less obvious, though still massively important elements to take into consideration when shopping in this space. Below, we’ll briefly touch on seven of the most pivotal areas to think about prior to pulling the trigger on your purchase.

Range: Though most of the world’s major highway networks are littered with gas stations and service shops, the reality is that having to exit the freeway and pull over every other hour to fill up isn’t exactly convenient, which is why a car’s range (on a single tank) is of such importance. At the very least, you’ll want a vehicle that affords several hundred miles of autonomy between trips to the pump. This area is even more important for electric cars , as — despite there being close to ten million charging stations scattered across the planet — there are far more gas stations than EV chargers. As such, you’ll not only want to review an EV’s range, but also the charging network that’s available for said EV.

Comfort: Being comfortable in a car is obviously important, though this factor matters far more when dealing with road trip cars, as drivers — and their passenger(s) — typically spend hours at a time inside the cabin of these vehicles. Consequently, this makes a given car’s comfortability level of extreme significance. And while there are dozens of factors that contribute to how comfortable a car is, some of the more important elements to consider are the seats, their construction and upholstery, their level of adjustability, and whether they offer heating, cooling, or massage functions. Additional areas like dual climate control and robust soundproofing can also hugely up a car’s comfortability.

Amenities: While there’s no denying that comfort is a hugely important area when dealing with road trip cars, there are nonetheless a handful of additional features that can very much bolster one’s enjoyment during long-range drives. Alongside amenities like touchscreen infotainment setups and moon/sunroofs, there are also features like web browsers and connectivity to streaming services that can enhance the users’ experience. Likewise, most of today’s best road trip cars also pack advanced suites of electronic driver assists such as forward collision warning and avoidance systems, lane keep assist, blindspot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, just to name a few. Some brands also offer supplementary amenities, like Tesla, which sells cars equipped with features like “Caraoke,” HEPA filtration systems, and of course, the American automaker’s state-of-the-art autopilot system.

Storage: The longer the road trip, the more gear the driver will typically need. As such, the amount of cargo space afforded by a particular vehicle is of utmost importance, as roomier rides will boast more internal real estate for stashing bags and equipment. And, though this is clearly a crucial area to consider when reviewing cars for road trips, it is worth pointing out that one can always supplement a car’s internal square footage with a roof rack or rooftop cargo box, though this option is obviously less convenient — and will often slightly mitigate fuel — or battery — consumption. You’ll also likely want to consider how many people the car seats, as well as how much cargo space is available for each passenger’s bags and gear. Backseat legroom is also a crucial area to consider when reviewing this element.

Reliability & Service Intervals: The reality is that the vast majority of new cars are incredibly reliable and should have no issue driving cross country several times over. With that said, there are some models with better reputations when it comes to overall reliability. Additionally, if you plan to use this vehicle for extensive road-tripping, you’ll also want to look into the model’s required service intervals, as these figures can hugely vary. And, whether it’s a road trip car or a daily commuter — or even a motorcycle — it’s always worth looking into whether any recalls have been issued for a particular model.

Manufacturer & Dealer Support: When going on a road trip, not only is it important to review how often a car needs to be serviced but also where it can be serviced, as some makes will boast a markedly more robust dealership and support network should you need a part repaired or replaced. This extends to areas like the availability of roadside assistance offered by a marque. It’s also worth pointing out that rarer and more exotic models will make for a much more difficult time sourcing replacement parts – as it’s not that hard to find a replacement component for a BMW car just about anywhere in the country, though the same can’t be said for models from brands like Bentley or Aston Martin.

Drivetrain & Performance: Unlike commuting where the main objective is simply to get from A to B, long-range road-tripping is all about enjoying the journey and embracing the open road. As such, having a car that affords a more spirited driving experience makes for a markedly more enjoyable time behind the wheel, which is why reviewing a model’s engine is so important. Alongside the engine configuration itself, you’ll also want to check out its aspiration type and displacement — as well as horsepower and torque figures, 0-60mph times, and top speeds. A car’s suspension package is another crucial area to consider, as it will directly impact a model’s overall handling, as well as the smoothness of the ride. Quite a few cars also offer the best of both worlds with adjustable air ride suspension setups that can be lowered for spirited runs through the canyons, or raised back up for ultra-smooth and plush freeway travel.

Long-Haul Legends

The Best Road Trip Cars Currently On The Market

Now that you’re up to speed on what areas to take into consideration when shopping, let’s get into our picks for the finest and most well-appointed new road trip cars that are currently available on showroom floors.

An affordably-priced, rugged and spacious wagon with raised roof rails, 8.7” of ground clearance, & Subaru’s Starlink multimedia package all as standard.

Best Affordable Pick: One of the most versatile vehicles currently on the market, the latest generation Subaru Outback is a fantastic road trip car with seating for five, more than 75 cubic feet of cargo space, and an optional turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer engine. With features like 9.5” of ground clearance and asymmetrical all-wheel drive as standard, the Outback is also capable of some light off-roading duties .

Engine: Turbocharged 2.4L Boxer Four or NA 2.5L Boxer Four Power: 260HP & 277FT-LBs or 182HP & 176FT-LBs Cargo Space: 75.7 Cubic feet Range: 600+ Miles Seats: 5 MSRP: $28,895

A road-focused variant of Ford’s revived retro-inspired SUV that still packs Hoss suspension & cutting-edge electronics.

Best Retro-Inspired: One of the most anticipated new models from the last decade, Ford’s revived Bronco platform is a 4×4 vehicle that comes with more than 65 cubic feet of cargo space, an advanced electronics package, Hoss suspension, and nearly 9” of ground clearance. Sold in a variety of trim levels, the Sport-spec Bronco was also intentionally designed to be as modular as possible — an area furthered by the absolutely enormous range of factory accessories offered for the American SUV .

Engine: Turbocharged 1.5L Inline-Three or Turbocharged 2.0L Inline Four Power: 181HP & 190FT-LBs or 250HP & 277FT-LBs Cargo Space: 65.2 Cubic Feet Range: 416 Miles Seats: 5 MSRP: $31,230

An Abarth-specFiat 124 Spyder with a Garrett turbo, Bilstein shocks, & Brembo brakes all as standard.

Best Two-Door: Sharing its platform with the Mazda Miata, the Fiat 124 Spyder is the definition of a true driver’s car , standing as a peppy open-top roaster that can be had for a reasonable price. For those less concerned with cost, the company also makes the Abarth 124GT — a limited-edition variant with a Garrett Turbocharged engine, a dedicated sport mode, Bilstein shocks, Brembo brakes, 17” alloy wheels, special race seats, and a GT-specific slate gray livery. Sadly, the GT-spec isn’t offered on American shores, unlike the base model 124.

Engine: Turbocharged 1.5L Inline-Four Power: 170HP & 184.4FT-LBs Cargo Space: 4.94 Cubic Feet Range: 535 Miles Seats: 2 MSRP: $44,085

A luxurious Swedish-made hybrid mid-sized SUV with a more than 500-mile range per tank.

Best Long-Range Pick: A plug-in hybrid version of Volvo’s mid-sized SUV, the XC60 Recharge is a wildly-advanced vehicle that boasts features like best-in-class navigation, an optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system, a built-in Google smart assistant, and a state-of-the-art onboard air filter. Equipped with an all-wheel-drive setup, the five-seater’s turbocharged 2.0-liter hybrid inline-four generates more than 450hp and 523ft-lbs of torque, allowing for a machine that’s equal parts comfortable and exhilarating.

Engine: Turbocharged 2.0L Hybrid Inline-Four Power: 455HP & 523FT-LBs Cargo Space: 63.3 Cubic Feet Range: 520 Miles (or 32 Battery Only) Seats: 5 MSRP: $57,900

A revived take on Jeep’s legendary full-sized luxury SUV that sports a 6.4L V8, an AWD system, & over 116 cubic feet of storage space.

Best Full-Size SUV: First unveiled in March of last year, the Jeep Grand Wagoneer is a revived full-size SUV that, like the original model, offers the pinnacle of comfort and class. Returning after 30 years out of production, the Grand Wagoneer comes with quilted Palermo leather seats, a 6.4L V8 mated to one of three AWD systems, over 116 cubic feet of storage and cargo space, a 10,000lb towing capacity, and an ultra-top shelf McIntosh MX950 Entertainment System — all as standard fare.

Engine: 6.4L V8 Power: 470HP & 455FT-LBs Cargo Space: 116.7 Cubic Feet Range: 477 Miles Seats: 7 MSRP: $91,140

An ultra-potent family-hauler & grocery getter with a 621-hp bi-turbo V8 offering 3.3-second 0-60 runs and a 190-mph top speed.

Best Sport Wagon: The Audi RS 6 Avant is an ultra-high-performance sleeper that’s conducive to everything from track days to family-hauling duties to road trips. Alongside RS-spec components and wheels, this highly up-specced model comes adorned in a slammed stance with a full aero kit, a carbon trim package, nearly 60 cubic feet of cargo space, and, most importantly, a 621-hp 4.0-liter bi-turbo V8 that enables this elite sport wagon to achieve a 3.3-second 0-60mph time and a top speed of 190mph.

Engine: Twin-Turbocharged 4.0L V8 Power: 621HP & 627FT-LBs Cargo Space: 59.3 Cubic Feet Range: 425 Miles Seats: 5 MSRP: $125,800

A streamlined, 911-inspired shooting brake-style version of Porsche’s mighty new fully-electric four-door.

Best EV: Marking the Stuttgart firm’s first-ever all-electric offering, the Taycan GTS Sport Turismo is unequivocally one of the very best road trip cars currently in production. It offers an incredibly smooth ride, an impressive 300-mile range, and a decent amount of cargo space thanks to the extended sport back. Thanks to an ultra-potent 440kW EV powertrain setup and Overboost power with a launch control function, the GTS Sport Turismo-spec Taycan can reach 60mph from a standstill in 3.5 seconds flat.

Engine: Dual Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors Power: 440kW (590HP) & 626FT-LBs Cargo Space: 42.8 Cubic Feet Range: 313 Miles Seats: 5 MSRP: $141,200

A 612-hp ALPINA-tuned & upgraded grand touring car based on BMW’s already luxurious & thoroughly-capable 8 Series.

Best Grand-Tourer: While to the average observer, this road trip car may just look like a BMW 8 Series, those in the know are well aware of the ultra-top-shelf exotics offered by famed tuning outfit ALPINA. This high-end grand tourer’s ALPINA transformation includes 21″ ALPINA wheels, ALPINA 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes, an ALPINA Aerodynamic Kit, an ALPINA Sport suspension package with twin-tube gas-pressure shocks, double-wishbone multi-link aluminum suspension in front, and an integral-V multi-link aluminum setup in the rear, and an interior with ALPINA Lavalina leather steering wheel, engraved glass controls, and a unique digital instrument cluster. Finally, at the heart of this car is a 4.4-liter bi-turbo V8 that’s been tuned by ALPINA to produce 612hp and 590ft-lbs of torque.

Engine: Twin-Turbocharged 4.4L V8 Power: 612HP & 590FT-LBs Cargo Space: 15.5 Cubic Feet (Trunk Only) Range: 432 Miles Seats: 5 MSRP: $149,300

A hybrid-boosted bi-turbo 4.0-liter V8-powered version of Bentley’s normally V12-powered flagship model that retains its world-class luxury.

Best Hybrid Pick: The Bentley Flying Spur has long been one of the most luxurious and well-optioned cars on the market, making it an objectively fantastic choice for road-tripping — assuming you can swing its fairly exorbitant MSRP. However, last summer, the famed British firm rolled out a new version of the car that sees its usual V12 and V8 engine options swapped out in favor of a hybrid-boosted bi-turbo 4.0-liter V8 that makes 542hp and 568ft-lbs of torque and allows for a top speed of 177mph and a 0-60mph time of just 4.1-seconds. This hybrid luxury car also offers a range of 435 miles — or an all-electric range of 25 miles, if you want to go green for a portion of your trip.

Engine: Twin-Turbocharged 2.9L Hybrid V6 Power: 542HP & 568FT-LBs Cargo Space: 12.4 Cubic Feet (Trunk Only) Range: 435 Miles (or 25 Miles Battery Only) Seats: 5 MSRP: $210,600

A 707-hp mid-sized SUV boasting genuine supercar-grade performance with a 193-mph top speed & a 3.3-second 0-60 time.

Best Mid-Sized SUV: First unveiled in early February of 2022, the Aston Martin DBX707 represents the world’s most powerful luxury SUV . Taking its name from its 707-hp output, the DBX707 is another ultra-high-end vehicle that boasts a unique mix of world-class comfort and performance. Alongside a 360-mile range and a decent amount of cargo space, the DBX707 also packs a 4.0-liter bi-turbo V8 engine that’s mated to a 9-speed “wet clutch” automatic transmission and allows for 3.3 seconds 0-60mph runs and an impressive top speed of 193mph — a fairly insane figure considering this is an SUV.

Engine: Twin-Turbocharged 4.0L V8 Power: 707HP & 664FT-LBs Cargo Space: 54 Cubic Feet Range: 360 Miles Seats: 5 MSRP: $236,000

The Best SUVs for Camping

Want to check out an additional selection of vehicles that are great for recreational use? Then be sure to cruise over to our guide to the best SUVs for camping for the most comfortable and well-appointed rolling base camp options.

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The Best Road Trip Cars From Every Category

When "Head out on the highway" is more than just a line from a song to you, these are the cars to buy.

Civic Hatchback

Embarking on an epic road trip adventure requires the perfect companion, and selecting the ideal car for the journey can significantly impact your experience. In an era where sustainability and efficiency take center stage, the realm of road trip vehicles has transformed. From the ever-expanding array of electric vehicles to power-oriented marvels, the choices have never been more exhilarating. The question is simple: What is the best car for long-distance driving?

That's a loaded question, so today, we'll explore the best road trip cars in 10 different segments, guiding you through options that guarantee comfort, dependability, and the freedom to navigate extensive distances effortlessly. Whether plotting a picturesque coastal drive, a cross-country odyssey, or a quick weekend escape, these road trip-ready vehicles will enhance the journey, and perhaps even the destination. Prepare to embark on your open-road adventure with unwavering confidence as we unveil the top contenders in the domain of road-trip cars.

The Hatchback: 2024 Honda Civic Hatch

The latest Civic Hatchback keeps its enjoyable driving dynamics intact despite being a more grown-up car than any Civic before it. In base form, its 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder produces an ample 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque, while a turbocharged 1.5-liter ups the stakes to 180 hp and 177 lb-ft. Plus, if you're still of the old-school persuasion and like to be in control of the experience, you can get a six-speed manual gearbox in the Sport and Sport Touring trims - or a CVT if you prefer to relax.

With combined EPA ratings of up to 35 mpg in turbo guise and 33 mpg in base form, the Civic is light on gas, and starting at an MSRP of $24,950, it's light on your bank account from the get-go.

Combine its mechanical attributes with a spacious cabin and large trunk (24.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats), and it's a winner already. Factor in a full suite of connectivity options like a seven-inch touchscreen and matching digital gauge cluster (nine- and 10.2 inches respectively on the Sport Touring), and you have one of the most complete long-distance vehicles on the market and a perfect family road trip car.

The Crossover: 2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

This fuel-efficient road trip car boasts a hybrid system, achieving an impressive 38 mpg combined EPA rating. The hybrid powertrain comprises a 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder with electric augmentation, paired to a six-speed automatic gearbox, producing 226 hp and 258 lb-ft.

Whether traveling with a full crew or just a few, the standard all-wheel drive ensures surefootedness over any surface and in any climate through sun, snow, and rain.

Ideal for family road trips, it boasts a comfortable and spacious interior equipped with rear USB ports and a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Five seats with ample rear legroom enhance the appeal of this compact crossover, and its generous 38.7-cu-ft trunk accommodates all your gear. You can use all five seats, or drop the 60:40-split rear seats to carry larger items. Starting at $32,325, the Tucson Hybrid ticks all the right boxes .

The Sports Car: 2024 Mustang GT Coupe

While there may be many options in contention for the title of the best sports car , we maintain when it comes to road trips, the Mustang has them all soundly beaten. A new generation has arrived for 2024, sporting updated styling and a new fighter jet-inspired interior with larger infotainment and digital gauge cluster screens.

Under the hood, the 5.0-liter Coyote V8 has been upgraded and now produces 36 hp more in the 2024 Mustang GT than the old model, totaling 486 hp. It comes with a six-speed manual transmission or an optional 10-speed auto, which may be better suited to long-distance cruising.

Should the road get twisty on your journey, the Mustang GT's combination of power, noise, and agility means an entertaining road trip is in the cards, and the supportive Recaro front seats hold you in place comfortably. Ample rear legroom - yes, it's a four-seater sports car - and a 13.5 cubic foot trunk make it practical too, and since you can get it as a coupe or a convertible, it's perfect for summer road trips.

The Wagon: 2024 Volvo V60 Cross Country

The Volvo V60 Cross Country excels in various aspects such as space, speed, off-road capability, etc. This versatile vehicle is a gem for road trips and an overall top-tier option. Sporting 26 mpg combined from a 250-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with an eight-speed automatic gearbox, its raised ground clearance and AWD give it the ability to tackle dirt roads without the hefty fuel economy of traditional SUVs.

It comes fully equipped with advanced safety features, including a rear cross-traffic alert system and traffic sign recognition, plus semi-autonomous highway driving capabilities. A five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA backs this up and ensures a safe road trip for the whole family.

It boasts an available Wi-Fi hotspot, enhancing connectivity on your journeys and keeping the kids occupied, and its spacious interior means they'll be comfortable for hours. 22.5 cubic feet of trunk space will accommodate suitcases, tents, and more; if you need extra, the fold-down rear seats let you accommodate even more. Additionally, you can add a roof-mounted bicycle rack, perfect for those with an active lifestyle, making it one of the best cars for road-tripping.

The Minivan: 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid

The $51,095 Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid harmoniously blends gas and electric power, catering to road trips with its ample combination of cargo space, people space, and frugality. Furnished with a 3.6-liter V6 augmented by electric power, it produces 260 hp. It lays down this power through a front-wheel drivetrain. If you want AWD, you can have it, but that would require the non-hybrid Pacifica.

Spacious with seating for eight occupants, it looks after the family with advanced safety features like emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane assist, and blind spot monitoring. There's versatility aplenty with Stow 'n Go seating that avails additional cargo space without physically having to remove seats from the minivan, and between 32.3 and 140.5 cubic feet.

A heated steering wheel and three-zome climate control add extra luxury, and the new Pinnacle model adds even more luxury to the road trip experience. The panoramic rearview mirror helps to keep an eye on the kids during the, 'Are we there yet' arguments.

The Truck: 2024 Ford F-150 Raptor

Should road trips in 2023 call for a more 'cross-country' experience, the Ford F-150 Raptor is the only pickup truck for the job. While the allure is strong to go for the TRX-beating Raptor R and its supercharged V8, for road trips, we think the base Raptor is better, thanks to its twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6. Not only do you get 450 hp and 510 lb-ft sent to all corners via a 10-speed automatic gearbox, but you get 15 mpg combined (instead of the R's 12 mpg). You can still tow 8,200 lbs, get a versatile truck bed, and those sweet Fox shocks that can take you to hell and back.

Inside, all F-150 models come with standard features like a 12-inch digital gauge display and Sync 4-enabled infotainment system, soft bucket seats, wireless charging, and 400W USB ports with outlets in both the cab and the bed. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. With five seats, ample power, and go-anywhere capability, the F-150 Raptor is a road-trip truck with no equal.

The Full-Size SUV: 2023 Cadillac Escalade

If you need three rows of seats, a body-on-frame chassis, an abundance of passenger and storage space, and supreme luxury, the Cadillac Escalade may be the best road trip SUV there is, even if it does cost a slip more than $80,000.

With a versatile engine lineup including a Duramax diesel six-cylinder (277 hp/460 lb-ft) and a 6.2-liter V8 (420 hp/460 lb-ft), both saddled with a buttery-smooth 10-speed automatic, the Escalade can tow up to 8,200 lbs, meaning you can take everything with you on holiday. The spacious cabin accommodates a ton of cargo, and an available long-wheelbase ESV variant even makes the third row of seating adult-friendly.

The Escalade is loaded with exceptional tech such as the 38-inch diagonal OLED display encompassing instrumentation and infotainment, and a full-color head-up display. Super Cruise hands-free driving making long-distance trips on the highway a cinch, too.

The Grand Tourer: 2024 Lexus LC Hybrid

We've chosen the LC Hybrid for this list, but we wouldn't fault you for picking any of the LC models. The standard variant packs a sonorous naturally aspirated V8 (coupe and convertible), but for covering distance, the LC 500h's 3.5-liter V6 and twin electric motors still packs a 354-hp punch while consuming considerably less fuel at 29 mpg combined vs. the V8's 19 mpg. It looks achingly gorgeous, too. The downside is an electronic CVT, but with the additional torque of the e-motors, and given the laidback cruising nature of the LC, it's a forgivable offense.

Road trip cars typically need big trunks, and the LC falls short here with only 4.7 cubic feet in hybrid form, but with 2+2 seating in which the rear seats aren't suited for passengers, there's plenty of additional storage space in the cabin.

Packed with Lexus' array of safety systems, and now featuring a decent infotainment system , the car is technologically up-to-date and safe for you and a loved one to hit the road and soak up the miles in comfort and luxury.

The Luxury Sedan: 2024 Audi S8

The 2024 Audi S8 redefines the road trip experience with its blend of luxury and performance. Beneath its hood lies a formidable 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, delivering 563 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. While everyone knows the Mercedes-AMG S63 in this segment, the Audi S8 is seen as more of a sleeper, an understated performance sedan that can lap up the miles without shouting about its 3.8-second 0-60 mph potential. Combined with the nimbleness of its rear-axle steering and the surefootedness of its all-wheel drive, it's the perfect car for almost any occasion.

Whether you're seated up front or reclining in the massaging rear seats, you're swathed in luxury and cutting-edge technology. Plush leather seats provide a sense of opulence, while the MMI Touch Response infotainment system and onboard Wi-Fi hotspot, ensure seamless connectivity and entertainment throughout your road trips, while an optional rear-seat entertainment system keeps passengers engaged on extended journeys.

The only downside is the $120,600 price tag.

The Convertible: 2023 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet

The Porsche Carrera GTS Cabriolet redefines the essence of road trips with its breadth of performance and capability. It's fast, it's comfortable, it's feature-laden, and it even has four seats - what more could you ask for? Beneath its curvaceous exterior lies a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, delivering 473 hp and 420 lb-ft, and with your choice of rear- or all-wheel drive, you get a 0-60 mph time of under 3.4 seconds and all-weather confidence.

Inside, the Carrera GTS Cabriolet pampers occupants with opulent leather seats and a cutting-edge infotainment system, including the Porsche Communication Management system. For audiophiles, the optional Burmester sound system promises exceptional audio quality, enhancing the soundtrack of your road trip.

With a front cargo area measuring 4.7 cubic feet and rear seats that can double as storage in a pinch, there's plenty of space for your luggage. Then, when the weather is right, a 12-second drop of the top lets you feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your skin. When the journey matters more than the destination, few cars do road trips like the 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet.

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10 Best Road-Trip Vehicles That You Can Buy Right Now

CR's tests show that these are the best road-trip models across popular categories

Finding the perfect road-trip vehicle means striking a balance among many factors, such as front and rear seat comfort, space, fuel economy, ride quality, and noise. It also should be a vehicle that’s easy to live with when you’re not traveling, and with strong safety and reliability. That is a lot to ask of a single vehicle, but our analysts have scrutinized our test and survey data to find the best road-trip vehicles in 10 popular categories.

To find the standouts, we considered all those factors among models that meet the stringent criteria to be recommended by Consumer Reports . Each vehicle below scores at least average in those factors, plus they provide 500 miles or more of highway cruising range, based on our fuel-economy tests. They also have a sizable trunk or cargo area, based on our measurements. Because of the qualification needed to make a great long-distance runner, we omitted subcompact SUVs and small cars. We also list suitable alternatives, where possible.

All the vehicles featured here, except the Buick, come standard with forward collision warning (FCW) and automatic emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian detection. (The advanced safety systems are optional on the Buick.)

The 10 models below are road-trip warriors, based on CR data. You can assemble your own list with CR ratings by using our A-to-Z guide . If you’re a Consumer Reports member, the full list is available to you here.

If you haven’t signed up yet, click below and become a member to access this full article and all our exclusive ratings and reviews for each vehicle we buy and test. Joining also gives you full access to exclusive ratings for the other products our experts evaluate in several categories, including electronics and appliances.

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Consumers' Favorites: Best Cars for Long Road Trips

The athletic and involving BMW 3 Series wagon comfortably took the top spot, with 26.0 percent of the vote. Second place went to the well-rounded Acura MDX, with 14.4 percent, while the fuel-sipping Volkswagen Passat TDI was close behind in 3rd with 13.9 percent.

See how the rest of the field did in the full results below and make sure to exercise your right to vote in our next Consumers' Favorites poll .

1. BMW 3 Series Wagon (26.0%)

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What Edmunds.com says: The 2014 BMW 3 Series is a well-rounded and highly desirable entry-level luxury car. Whether you're drawn to its sporty driving character or its high-end cabin, it's one of our favorites in this class.

2. Acura MDX (14.4%)

What Edmunds.com says: Even more complete and desirable than its successful predecessor, the all-new 2014 Acura MDX is a top pick for a luxury crossover SUV, offering abundant refinement, luxury and comfort.

3. Volkswagen Passat TDI (13.9%)

What Edmunds.com says: Set apart by its European-style refinement, roomy interior and fuel-efficient diesel engine option, the 2014 Volkswagen Passat is a solid choice for a family sedan.

4. Toyota Highlander (9.8%)

What Edmunds.com says: The reinvented three-row 2014 Toyota Highlander progresses in key areas while staying true to its no-nonsense roots. It's a top choice in the family crossover class.

5. Jeep Grand Cherokee (8.0%)

What Edmunds.com says: If you want a midsize SUV that does a little of everything, the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee is tough to beat. Its well-trimmed cabin is comfy for five, and it's one of the few remaining utility vehicles that can handle both off-road trails and daily commutes.

6. Cadillac CTS (7.6%)

What Edmunds.com says: With a contemporary new look, a revised interior and more powerful and fuel-efficient engines, the redesigned 2014 Cadillac CTS looks like a serious contender in the midsize luxury sedan class.

7. Chevrolet Corvette Stingray (4.1%)

What Edmunds.com says: Sure, it will still do endless burnouts if you want it to. But with newfound interior refinement and up-to-date electronic features, the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette is now a more appealing and well-rounded choice for a sports car.

8. Chevrolet Silverado (2.8%) - Tie

What Edmunds.com says: A wide range of body styles, an overhauled interior and a lineup of powerful and fuel-efficient engines make the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado a solid pick in the full-size pickup class.

8. Nissan Altima (2.8%) - Tie

What Edmunds.com says: Sophisticated driving dynamics, energetic engines and impressive fuel economy give the 2014 Nissan Altima a leg up on rival family sedans. It's an excellent choice in this segment.

10. Toyota Prius (2.6%)

What Edmunds.com says: The 2014 Toyota Prius remains the quintessential hybrid car and a solid all-around choice, though other, newer hybrids are more enjoyable to drive.

11. Hyundai Santa Fe (2.2%) - Tie

What Edmunds.com says: The 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe has what it takes to unseat the class-leading seven-passenger crossovers, with quality, power, comfort and style.

11. Kia Cadenza (2.2%) - Tie

What Edmunds.com says: The well-rounded, well-built 2014 Kia Cadenza stands as a prime competitor in the large sedan segment.

13. Ford Mustang Convertible (2.0%)

What Edmunds.com says: Even without any dramatic changes for this year, the 2014 Ford Mustang continues to offer style, thrills and value. It's our top pick among muscle cars.

14. Ford C-Max Hybrid (1.0%)

What Edmunds.com says: The 2014 Ford C-Max Hybrid is an interesting alternative to compact crossovers, wagons and hybrids. Its high fuel economy and refined driving manners make it especially appealing.

15. Kia Forte (0.5%)

What Edmunds.com says: Quality and value are high points on the 2014 Kia Forte , and its sharp new look pushes it toward the head of the compact-car class.

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Best Road Trip Cars in 2023

Get ready to hit the road for vacations and holidays in a car that's fuel efficient, reliable and comfortable. We found the best road trip cars for any adventure.

Kia Motors America |

Looking for Adventure? Head Out on the Highway!

People have a lot of pent-up travel lust after years of pandemic restrictions and uncertainty. Air travel in particular has seen a huge rise this summer, with the busiest day in the industry's history occurring in June. Rather than fight those busy flights, hit the road in a new vehicle that can fit all your luggage and maybe even help you keep your cool.

No single car is the perfect road trip vehicle for everyone, but great road trip cars have some features in common. We looked for vehicles that have good gas mileage for fewer stops at gas stations, enough USB ports to keep everyone's devices charged up and comfortable seats in all rows. Driver assistance features are important too, as they can help reduce fatigue during long days on the road.

When new information becomes available, we update our reviews, so the information in these slides might not match the reviews exactly.

Let's take a look at the best road trip cars so we can – finally – get out of town.

Hyundai Motor America |

2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

$31,350 | usn overall score: 8.7/10.

The 2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is among the best in its class. Its long list of features was refreshed for the new model year, and it was a finalist for our Best Hybrid SUV for the Money and Best Hybrid SUV for Families awards. The regular hybrid is the best for road tripping, with up to 38 mpg on the highway. The available plug-in hybrid shines brightest when you can take full advantage of its 33 miles of electric-only power around town.

Inside, there's tons of room for adults in both rows of seating and a huge cargo area. An 8-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay , wireless Android Auto , four USB ports and wireless device charging come standard.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas

$34,460 | usn overall score: 8.0/10.

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas has enough room to bring along everybody and all their gear. It's available with two or three rows of seating, and even the optional third row has enough room for shorter adults or squirmy kids. It has more cargo space behind the third row than most in its class. A 6.5-inch touch screen and smartphone compatibility come standard.

Despite being a 3-row SUV, the Atlas is easy to maneuver, even when you leave the highway for city streets. It can also tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly configured if you plan to bring a small camper or want to tow some toys for your vacation.

2023 Lincoln Navigator

$77,635 | usn overall score: 8.8/10.

Wherever your road trip takes you, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator will make sure you arrive in comfort and style. It's one of the best luxury large SUVs, with a well-built and high-quality interior. Standard features include a 13.2-inch touch screen, wireless smartphone connectivity, a Wi-Fi hotspot and five USB ports.

Every seat in all three rows is comfortable, and the available L model adds extra space to an already roomy cargo area. And though it is large, the Navigator turns in decent fuel economy estimates for its class, with up to 23 mpg on the highway. Standard safety features like lane-keep assist can help reduce driver fatigue too.

2023 Chevrolet Suburban

$57,200 | overall score: 8.2/10.

The 2023 Chevrolet Suburban is the classic family road trip SUV. It's huge, with more cargo space than almost any SUV out there. It can be configured to seat up to nine people (though it's a tight fit). With seven or eight seats, even the third row provides enough legroom for adults. The interior is sturdy enough for epic journeys, and it comes with an 8-inch touch screen, wireless smartphone connectivity and six USB ports.

Depending on how you configure it, the Suburban can tow up to 8,300 pounds, enough for the average camper. It also comes with driver-assistance features like lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist and automatic emergency braking.

2023 Genesis G90

$88,400 | usn overall score: 9.3/10.

The 2023 Genesis G90 was completely redesigned this year, and it added an optional mild-hybrid powertrain that improves acceleration when passing on the highway. The available air suspension makes long drives a dream, and the long list of standard safety features-including adaptive cruise control-eases the tedium of driving.

The Nappa leather interior wraps the road tripper in luxury, and both rows of seating are comfortable for adults. The trunk is large enough for several suitcases, and it opens automatically as you approach. The G90 also has one of the longest warranties in the business.

2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

$30,725 | usn overall score: 8.2/10.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid takes everything that has made this compact SUV popular over the years, like a comfortable ride and plenty of standard high-tech features, and added a fuel-efficient and quick-accelerating hybrid powertrain. It can get up to 41 mpg on the highway, which helps cut road trip costs. It was also a finalist for our Best Hybrid SUV for the Money award.

The interior is solidly built, and both rows of seating are comfy. There's also great visibility for everyone, so games of "I Spy" may get competitive. An 8-inch touch screen, wireless smartphone compatibility and a Wi-Fi hotspot come standard. Adaptive cruise control and traffic-sign recognition (both standard) help you when driving in unfamiliar locations.

2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

$32,950 | usn overall score: 8.3/10.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid is a more fuel-efficient version of the popular compact SUV, with up to 43 mpg on the highway. It's been completely redesigned this year, with more standard tech features and an improved infotainment system. A 7-inch touch screen, smartphone connectivity, a Wi-Fi hotspot and four USB ports come standard.

The seats are comfy in both rows, with room for adults to stretch out even on road trips. The rear seats recline, so whoever is off driving duty can take a nap. Standard adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist help reduce the fatigue that can come with hours of driving.

2024 Kia Carnival

$33,200 | overall score: 8.5/10.

The 2024 Kia Carnival basically begs you to get the show on the road, and it comes standard with several advanced safety features, including driver-attention monitoring.

The interior is upholstered with easy-to-clean materials, and all three rows have enough room for adults, though the third row is short on headroom. It also has lots of cargo space, even with all three rows in use. An 8-inch touch screen, smartphone compatibility and seven USB ports come standard.

2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

$50,795 | usn overall score: 8.6/10.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacific Hybrid is a plug-in hybrid, so when you reach your destination and charge up, you can drive about 32 miles on electric power alone. Under electric power, this Chrysler gets 82 MPG-equivalent, and gasoline-only driving returns up to 30 mpg on the highway. These are great numbers for a minivan.

There's also a ton of tech included, like a 10.1-inch touch screen, wireless smartphone connectivity and Amazon Alexa compatibility. All three rows of seating have lots of head- and legroom, and there's plenty of storage space. Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control and a surround-view parking camera system.

2023 Ram 1500

$31,270 | usn overall score: 9.0/10.

If your road trip plan involves a camper or boat, you'll want to look into the 2023 Ram 1500 . When properly equipped, it can tow up to 12,750 pounds. As with most pickups, you can configure the 1500 in whatever way works for you.

There are a lot of options and body styles to choose from too, but they all have a spacious, high-quality interior. The availability of safety features and infotainment tech depends on the trim you choose and the options you select, so you can custom-build the road-tripping pickup of your dreams – or the one that fits your budget.

2023 Honda Civic

$23,750 | usn overall score: 8.7/10.

Your road-trip car is probably also your go-to-work-every-day car. The 2023 Honda Civic ably handles both roles. It's one of the best compact cars in its class, and we named it the Best Compact Car for the Money as well as one of the Best Cars for Teens . All of its scores are high, especially when it comes to safety. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave it the Top Safety Pick+ designation.

It's not just safe, it's also thrifty, with up to 42 mpg on the highway. A 7-inch touch screen and smartphone connectivity come standard. It also comes with adaptive cruise control and traffic-sign recognition, which make driving in unfamiliar areas a bit easier.

2023 Ford Mustang

$27,770 | usn overall score: 9.2/10.

Sometimes you want to live the American road trip dream in an impractical sports car. But guess what – the 2023 Ford Mustang is a rather practical sports car with one of the highest overall U.S. News scores. There are several available engines, but sticking with the base turbo-four means an estimated 32 mpg on the highway.

Living the American muscle car fantasy on the open road is best for two people, since the Mustang's rear seats are pretty small. Its standard infotainment system has a 4.2-inch display – not a touch screen – and a Wi-Fi hot spot. Standard safety tech includes automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. But maybe most importantly, for purposes of the dream, the Mustang is available as a convertible.

Road Trip Car Characteristics

Passenger space : People turn cranky when they aren't comfortable after hours on the road. There needs to be space for everyone to stretch out.

Cargo space : At the very minimum, you'll be bringing luggage along and maybe also camping gear or tubes for floating the river. Make sure there's space for your gear.

Fuel economy : Stopping for gas on a road trip can get expensive. Fuel efficiency, particularly from hybrid powertrains, can ease the pain of stopping at the pump.

Infotainment : An AM/FM radio is no longer sufficient for most people. An infotainment system that's easy to use while driving and can connect to smartphones is key.

Safety tech : Driving long distances causes fatigue, and fatigue causes accidents. Modern driver-assistance features can help you stay alert and in your lane.

Reliability : No one wants to be the car in the breakdown lane while on their road trip. A good predicted reliability score shows that a particular model has on average been a solid performer over time.

John M. Vincent | U.S. News & World Report

Road Trip Car FAQs

What is the best car for road trips.

The best car for road trips is the one that fits your budget and your needs, so there's no one vehicle that will work for everybody. That said, the 2023 Honda Civic is a strong pick. It provides comfort, features, safety and reliability, and all for one of the lowest price tags on this list.

What is the best SUV for road trips?

The 2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid combines a long list of standard features with great fuel economy, and it has one of the most spacious interiors in its class.

What is the best luxury car for road trips?

The redesigned 2023 Genesis G90 will take you anywhere in comfort and style. Most of its best features are standard, including leather upholstery.

What is the most comfortable car for long trips?

On a list of very comfortable vehicles, the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid is probably the most comfortable, especially for back-seat passengers who can take advantage of those reclining seats. If comfort is your priority, take a look at our list of most comfortable cars for more options.

U.S. News and World Report |

More Shopping Tools From U.S. News & World Report

Plenty of families take road trips, so you might want to check out the winners of our 2023 Best Cars for Families awards too. Maybe you've been left stranded on an unfamiliar road by your former car and are looking for the most reliable cars available. If you know you need to bring along a lot of gear, see our roundup of compact SUVs with the most cargo space .

When you're ready to buy a new car, use our Best Price Program to pre-negotiate a great price with a local dealership. You can arrange for online buying and even vehicle delivery through the program.

U.S. News & World Report |

Best Cars for Road Trips

2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid - $31,350 | Overall Score: 8.7/10
2023 Volkswagen Atlas - $34,460 | Overall Score: 8.0/10
2023 Lincoln Navigator - $77,635| Overall Score: 8.8/10
2023 Chevrolet Suburban - $57,200 | Overall Score: 8.2/10
2023 Genesis G90 - $88,400 | Overall Score: 9.3/10
2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid - $31,225 | Overall Score: 8.2/10
2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid - $32,950 | Overall Score: 8.3/10
2024 Kia Carnival - $33,200 | Overall Score: 8.5/10
2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid - $50,795 | Overall Score: 8.6/10
2023 Ram 1500 - $31,270 | Overall Score: 9.0/10
2023 Honda Civic - $23,750 | Overall Score: 8.7/10
2023 Ford Mustang - $27,770 | Overall Score: 9.2/10

Browse Cars

10 Best Cars for Road-Tripping on a Budget

By Jane Ulitskaya

Memorial Day kickstarts the summer travel season, and despite record-high gas prices , drivers aren’t willing to sacrifice their annual road trips. According to a Cars.com survey , 82% of Americans traveling over the holiday are planning to drive. But rising fuel prices aren’t the only hurdle for shoppers in the market for a vehicle to accommodate their summer travel plans — higher average prices at the dealership can be just as problematic.

Related: What’s the Best New-Car Deal for May 2022?

The median price of a new vehicle among Cars.com dealers was $39,083 in April, up from $36,370 one year prior. At the same time, the typical manufacturer incentives offered over Memorial Day weekend are significantly scaled back due to inventory constraints. According to a J.D. Power sales report , incentives on new cars shrunk to $1,034 in April — down 66% from April 2021.

Despite these challenges, shoppers looking for an affordable road-trip vehicle that minimizes sticker shock at the pump still have options. We compiled the most affordable and fuel-efficient or fuel-free model-year 2022 cars, SUVs, trucks and electric vehicles for summer adventures (and beyond). To make our list, each vehicle’s starting price is in the top 10 most affordable category for its class. Also, gas-powered options get an EPA-rated combined rating of 30 mpg or more and EVs must get at least 200 miles of EPA-estimated range.

Sedans and hatchbacks make excellent road-trip vehicles for small families and light packers. They are also among the most affordable options on the market and offer generous efficiency even without a hybrid or electric powertrain.

Chevrolet Spark

Topping the list of budget-friendly road-trip vehicles is the most affordable car on the market. Shoppers interested in the Spark need to act fast, however, since GM plans to end the hatchback’s production in August, according to Automotive News . While it may not be long for this world, traveling long distances in the Spark comes with one big perk: a 33 mpg combined EPA-rating . A word of caution, however. Although the Spark can carry up to four occupants, it’ll be a tight fit for those in the backseat. The 2022 Spark LS with an optional continuously variable automatic transmission starts at $15,695 (all prices include destination charge).

Notable highlights

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Shop the 2022 Chevrolet Spark near you

Mitsubishi Mirage

The 2022 Mitsubishi Mirage carries a small price premium over the Spark, but it also brings improved fuel efficiency: With an available CVT, the Mirage offers an EPA-rated 39 mpg combined. The Mirage also adds one additional seat in the rear to fit a total of five occupants. Although it can handle a trip to the lake or a staycation around town, the Mirage’s 78-horsepower, 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine paired with the CVT isn’t made for the track — but its handling offers a relatively fun driving experience. The ES hatchback starts at $16,990 and the G4 sedan at $17,990.

Shop the 2022 Mitsubishi Mirage near you

If your summer road-trip goals boil down to avoiding jarring road noise and anxiety at the pump, the 2022 Kia Rio delivers on both. Like the Mirage, the Rio seats five and comes in hatchback or sedan variants. The 120-hp, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with a CVT gets an EPA-rated 36 mpg combined. Quiet on the highway and with stable handling, the base LX trim comes with an affordable starting price of $17,275. An added bonus is that the Rio gets wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration.

Shop the 2022 Kia Rio near you

SUVs may come with notably higher starting prices than their car counterparts, but they also carry the added benefits of flexible cargo space and a higher ride height for long summer drives. Choosing from the list of the most affordable SUVs with the highest mpg may check all the boxes in the “practical” category of your shopping list.

Hyundai Kona

For being the most affordable SUV on the market, the Hyundai Kona isn’t short on road-trip-friendly features that include standard automatic emergency braking, hands-on lane centering, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with wireless connectivity on the base model’s 8-inch touchscreen. In our review of the 2022 model, we also found it engaging to drive — a rarity for the subcompact SUV class. Plus, the Kona’s 147-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder and front-wheel drive offer an EPA-rated 32 mpg combined, making it a solid choice for weekend getaways. The gas-powered Kona SE starts at $22,395, while an electric variant is sold in select states with a $35,245 starting price.

Shop the 2022 Hyundai Kona near you

Chevrolet Trailblazer

The subcompact Trailblazer was introduced in 2021 and offers a surprisingly fun driving experience despite modest power from the base 137-hp, 1.2-liter three-cylinder. It also brings standard wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity and active-safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning with steering assist. To make it more adventure-friendly, a trailering package and roof rack crossbars are available factory accessories. The Trailblazer is competitive both in fuel economy and price: It gets an EPA-rated 30 mpg combined with standard FWD and starts at $22,795 for the base LS trim.

Shop the 2022 Chevrolet TrailBlazer near you

One of the HR-V’s best features when it comes to road trips is its versatile and roomy interior: The second row offers more space than most subcompact SUVs, and the multiposition second-row Magic Seat can fold flat to offer competitive cargo space for standard luggage or fold up to accommodate taller items. A 141-hp, 1.8-liter four-cylinder provides power and gets an EPA-rated 30 mpg combined. The base HR-V starts at $23,115; unlike some of its competitors, however, the base model does not offer standard safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning or Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.

Shop the 2022 Honda HR-V near you

Ford Maverick

All-new for 2022, the Ford Maverick is the only pickup truck to make the list of efficient road-trip vehicles with a combined rating of 30 mpg or more.

The base Ford Maverick’s standard gas-electric hybrid powertrain makes 191 hp and is paired with a CVT for an EPA-rated 37 mpg combined. Even though it doesn’t match the full-size F-150’s towing or payload capacity, the compact pickup can hold its own on the road thanks to a sizable cargo bed and towing capacity of up to 4,000 pounds with the optional turbocharged 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder. The Maverick has a $21,490 starting price and earned both our Best of the Year 2022 and Best Pickup Truck of 2022 awards.

Shop the 2022 Ford Maverick near you

Electric Vehicles

If avoiding gas stations entirely is your ideal plan, there are a handful of affordable EVs that can accommodate you. But while filling up at a gas station demands only a quick detour off the highway, road trips in a battery-powered vehicle involve more preparation. It’s important to consider the vehicle’s maximum range — most EVs with the longest range are luxury models that don’t overlap with the most affordable options.

This means mapping out public charging stations along the route will be required for longer trips. The top battery-powered vehicles for road trips offer an EPA-estimated range of 200 miles or more and are offered in all 50 states. Additionally, the Nissan Leaf and Kia Niro EV are still eligible for a $7,500 federal tax credit .

Nissan Leaf

The most affordable EV currently available doesn’t just eliminate the concern of rising gas prices, it also bucks the trend of rising vehicle prices. In fact, the 2022 Leaf sees a significant price cut and additional features : the ProPilot Assist safety suite, a 360-degree camera system and a portable Level 2 charging cable. Although the standard Leaf’s 40-kilowatt-hour battery and 147-hp electric motor offer just 149 miles of range per EPA-estimates , the extended-range Leaf Plus brings a more road-trip-worthy 226 miles of range from a 62-kWh battery and 214-hp motor. The standard range Nissan Leaf starts at $28,425, the Leaf Plus at $33,425.

Shop the 2022 Nissan Leaf near you

Chevrolet Bolt EV, Bolt EUV

Like the Leaf, the Bolt EV hatchback also sees a price cut for 2022; its starting price is nearly $5,000 less compared to the outgoing model. The redesigned 2022 Bolt EV gets a new interior, more standard safety tech and an all-new and larger Bolt EUV SUV sibling. Both Bolts are powered by a 65-kWh battery and 200-hp single electric motor, but the hatch gets a range advantage with an EPA-estimated 259 miles, compared to the EUV’s 247-mile range. Despite a rocky start for the 2022s with multiple recalls and stop-sale orders, GM has offered a fix and resumed production . The 2022 Bolt EV starts at $32,495 and the 2022 Bolt EUV at $34,495.

Shop the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV near you

Kia Niro EV

Sold alongside its hybrid and plug-in hybrid counterparts, the Niro EV also shares a powertrain with the related Hyundai Kona Electric; unlike the Kona Electric, however, the Niro EV is available in all 50 states. The Niro also carries advantages over the Kona that include a larger backseat and longer range (the Niro gets an EPA-estimated 239 miles). Although the Niro family sees a redesign for 2023 , the outgoing model still has a lot to offer shoppers, including a competitive starting price of $41,205.

Shop the 2022 Kia Niro near you

Summer Road-Trip Maintenance and Tips

Whether you’re planning to get a new vehicle or take your trusty old one on a summer road trip, it’s a good idea to make sure the car is ready for the trip. AAA recommends checking the tires and tire pressure ; testing the brakes and the battery; topping off oil and other fluids; checking belts and hoses; checking the air conditioning; and stocking the vehicle with an emergency supply kit .

The EV ownership experience differs from a gas-powered car, especially when planning a road trip. You’ll need to account for the vehicle’s range and map out charging stations along the route if the range is insufficient. Many EVs come with a smartphone app to check the vehicle’s mileage range and battery charge and help you find charging stations on the go; for example, Chevy offers EV Access through its OnStar Connected services for the Bolt EV and EUV, and a similar app is offered for the Nissan Leaf through NissanConnect EV Services .

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The 9 Best Road Trip Cars: Staff Picks

I polled most of the crew here for their picks and then prodded for extra justification to back up their (incorrect) opinions.

By Nick Caruso

Welcome to the most subjective argument to ever take place in the history of mankind. When it comes to road trips, what you’re driving is more important than where you’re going, what you eat on the way and what you listen to on the road — indeed, it may be even more important than who you bring along for the ride. We all have strong road trip car opinions, often driven by some form of nostalgia or aspiration.

I polled most of the crew here for their picks and then prodded for extra justification to back up their (incorrect) opinions. As it turns out, our choices aren’t all that dissimilar, but “agree to disagree’ all the same, right? Perhaps you’ll find some inspiration — or consternation — below.

Andrew Maness, Contributor: Mercedes-AMG E 63 S Wagon

The-9-Best-Road-Trip-Cars-Ever-gear-patrol-Mercedes-AMG-E-63-S-Wagon

Explain yourself: A perfect power to comfort ratio.

Anything else to add? The E 63 S Wagon checks all the right boxes. It’s a sleeper you can actually sleep in; it’s rare but you don’t have to be precious with it; it sounds phenomenal; it’s shockingly fast and you can get it with those top-notch Mercedes-Benz massaging front seats . Get it in the unassuming Diamond Silver Metallic over Nut Brown Nappa Leather with Natural Grain Ash trim for maximum “zen-den” effect.

Where are you driving? After setting out along the Pacific at dawn, I’d head northeast up to Ojai to Highway 33, then on to Bakersfield to hit Highway 178 to Lake Isabella. Then all the way to Highway 190 that runs through Death Valley. From there it’s a quick shot to Vegas, north on Highway 93 to Great Basin National Park and Highway 50, “The Loneliest Road In America.” 50 East leads to Central Utah where there are otherworldly landscapes to be explored. Once I’d had enough of the desert I’d point the car north to Wyoming and Montana before looping back west through Idaho and Oregon for some of the most incredible roads in the country.

Destination? Flathead Lake, Montana .

Best road trip snack? Bananas and almonds.

First song on your road trip playlist? “Rock and Roll” by Led Zeppelin .

What’s your personal road trip philosophy? Do have a general idea of where you’d like to end up each day; don’t feel the need to adhere to your plans exactly. The best road trips usually take shape after they’ve started, so don’t be too precious with your time. If you’ve got a passenger or two, always be open to their suggestions.

What is the front seat passenger’s primary responsibility? Snack distributor.

Essential Road Trip Gear: Andrew Maness Wilson Sun Sunglasses by Garrett Leight $346 The Slider Lip Balm by Lucky Bastard $8 Center Court Gilbert Crockett 2 by Vans $70

Andrew Connor, Associate Staff Writer: Porsche 911 Targa 4S

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Explain yourself: The roof. Or occasional lack thereof. Top-down road trips are a delight, and the gorgeous, geeky retractable roof on the new 911 Targa gives you that open-air freedom with the flexibility and comfort of having a hardtop.

Anything else to add? The “standard” Targa 4 is probably plenty of car, but fortunately, the S and GTS offer more power and suspension tuning if that’s your thing. I think if you are the type to buy a car like this for extensive road-tripping, the goldilocks-grade S model will have the right amount of power for Fun Time Driving without being too hardcore.

Where are you driving? The hell out of the US, up towards Nova Scotia, making sure to spend plenty of time driving the sublime roads around Cape Brenton Island. Eventually ending up in Halifax to consume copious amounts of Salmon.

Destination? Halifax .

Best road trip snack? Trail mix, but for the love of god make sure you don’t drop an M&M and accidentally sit on it. I’ve been burned before.

First song on your road trip playlist? “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen . Cliche but a classic.

What’s your personal road trip philosophy? Road-tripping, to me, is just as much about enjoying a car as it is going somewhere new, so take the scenic route when possible.

What is the front seat passenger’s main responsibility? Navigation.

Essential Road Trip Gear: Andrew Connor Espadrilles by Soludo $60 Spotify Premium $10/month Clover Sunglasses by David Kind $295

Nick Caruso, Associate Editor: Aston Martin DB11 V12

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Explain yourself: Easily the most beautiful, sumptuous V12 grand tourer available today.

Anything else to add? The DB11 V12 is an absolute grand slam of a car. Aston is growing massively right now while hoping to hold onto its roots: a heritage of making sporting cars in the hand-built, British tradition that are as capable as they are gorgeous. Most “car guys” prefer the V8 version because it’s lighter and therefor sportier to some degree. This is my choice, though: a completely customizable automobile (I configured the one pictured myself) designed to be owned and driven by sporting gentlemen; fast and violent-sounding, yes, but also velvety smooth thanks to its liquid V12. It is ultimate comfort, devilish luxury and top-tier, future-grade design rolled into one with a heavy, heaping dollop of the brand’s 100-plus-year history on top. Opt for custom-fit luggage, or perhaps some beautiful pieces of your own, and point in the direction of a heavenly getaway in a stylish, equally-stunning paradise.

Where are you driving? Start north on the California coast and wind down through Carmel-by-the-Sea, eventually winding my way to Montecito for a week of good food, ocean roar and, well, showing off my car.

Destination? Coral Casino Club

Best road trip snack? Whatchamacallit candy bars, but not to be eaten in the car. Sorry.

First song on your road trip playlist? “Runnin’ Down a Dream” by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers.

What’s your personal road trip philosophy? Driving is my Zen place. I’ll drive for hours without making a sound, without the radio on, alone with my thoughts and the road. I love the way I can manipulate a car and optimize a driving route. Conversely, I cherish road trips with good company — provided my passenger has good music taste. Extra points if they can harmonize.

What is the front seat passenger’s main responsibility? DJ.

Essential Road Trip Gear: Nick Caruso No. 10 Weekender by Lotuff $850 S140 Pivot Merino Button-Up by Outlier $198 Google Pixel 2 XL by Google $1,398

Bryan Campbell, Staff Writer: 1991 Buick Century Wagon

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Explain yourself: Space. You need to be able to feel like you can live out of the car. Because sometimes you have to.

Anything else to add? This is the car I grew up in as a kid, which I affectionately, yet plainly referred to as ‘the blue car’. (We had an ’87 VW Scirocco too, that was ‘the black car’.) The Buick was dark blue with wood grain paneling over a dark blue velour interior. Was it the hottest place in the world in the summer? Hell yes. But there was so much room in that car it might as well have been a modern SUV . And on shorter trips where luggage wasn’t necessary, you can bet my sister and I were in the trunk making use of the rear-facing rumble seat, taunting drivers behind us. Plus, one perk to the velour upholstery was it provided serious entertainment on the trips up to the Poconos. Once it was dark enough, all you had to do was rub your hair on the seat back and give your sibling a visible taser shock of static electricity.

Where are you driving? The most memorable trips were through snow storms up to Woodlock Pines to meet extended family for Christmas or New Years. I haven’t been back in years — I’m sure the place has modernized by now — but it was definitely a holdout establishment from the ’70s judging by all the decor.

Best road trip snack? Jerky.

First song on your road trip playlist? “Oh, Pretty Woman” by Roy Orbison . This song would always eventually blast through the tape deck, and as a kid I loved it every time.

What’s your personal road trip philosophy? Bring enough sustenance to keep you going to the next gas station, because those are the only stops.

Essential Road Trip Gear: Bryan Campbell Game Gear by Sega $78+

Brian Leon, Contributor: Mercedes-Benz SL600

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Explain yourself: It’s a V12 Mercedes-Benz convertible.

Anything else to add? The Mercedes SL-Class is simply the world’s favorite grand touring car. It’s been around longer than you have (probably) and though the current one may be the last, there’s a reason SL is the last word in drop-top luxury touring. For the money, the R129 generation (1989-2002) is my favorite, as it proves that boxy can still be beautiful. Capitalize on the current wave of 90s nostalgia and pick up one with a V12 for less than $25,000 in mint condition.

Where are you driving? The Overseas Highway from Miami to Key West seems a fitting route for the SL. At just 127.5 miles, it’s on the short end of the road trip spectrum, but why not extend your starting point a bit further north along the coast? Like Savannah, or Myrtle Beach… or Portland, Maine.

Destination? If you’re already down there, why not hit the southernmost point in the continental U.S. ? At least it’s by the beach…

Best road trip snack? Beef jerky.

First song on your road trip playlist? Keeping it on theme: “Miami” by Will Smith .

What’s your personal road trip philosophy? If you stick to the planned route, you’re not really on a road trip, are you?

Essential Road Trip Gear: Brian Leon Men’s Classic Cap by Mercedes-Benz $26 Retro 49mm Sunglasses by Carrera $170 UV Aqua Rich Sunscreen by Bioré $14

AJ Powell, Assistant Editor: 2015 Subaru Forester 2.0XT Touring

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Explain yourself: It’s an AWD sleeper with a turbo. What more could you want in a road trip car?

Anything else to add? I can say from personal experience that this car is a blast to go cross country and back in. It’s got enough giddy-up to be fun across middle America. More importantly, it has a vast dealer network to keep up with the scheduled maintenance and oil changes while on the road.

Where are you driving? I’ve yet to check off a road trip through the South, so the ideal route would be to kit this thing out with a handful of bike racks and head down to Asheville. Once there, exploring the backroads in sport mode would be worth the trip.

Destination? Asheville, NC .

Best road trip snack? Haribo Sour Peaches.

First song on your road trip playlist? “Winter” by TV On The Radio .

What’s your personal road trip philosophy? Methodically planned down to where the closest Steak n Shake is at each fuel stop. Tire pressure? Check? Wiper fluid? Check. You get the picture.

Essential Road Trip Gear: AJ Powell Ruggedized Series Kekunam 3 Rooftop Tent by Tepui $2,100 Mobile Powerstation by River $600 Pismo Sunglasses by SPY $120

Tyler Duffy, Contributor: Mercedez Benz W113 280SL Pagoda

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Explain yourself: Understatement. The 280SL is pared down from its predecessor SLs and sleeker than its successors. You won’t look like a doofus climbing out of gull-wing doors. There’s at least a 50/50 chance you can escape the coffee shop without being dragooned for a 40-minute conversation by an eager car enthusiast.

Anything else to add? When former Mercedes F1 Champion Nico Rosberg cruises along the Mediterranean, he drives a 1970 280SL.

Where are you driving? I depart my charming Carmel-by-the-Sea inn. I turn south on Route 1. I leave my worries and the ubiquitous Bay Area tech bros in the rearview mirror as I savor perhaps America’s most striking coastline. Leisurely lunch with a view. I turn around in time to arrive for my pre-cocktail hour massage, because in this world that’s entirely reasonable.

Destination? Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Best road trip snack? Cinnamon Altoids.

First song on your road trip playlist? “It’s Hard To Be a Saint in the City” by Bruce Springsteen .

What’s your personal road trip philosophy? Leave earlier than any sane person would in the morning. Pace yourself with the liquids. Avoid lactose and legumes before traveling in polite company.

Essential Road Trip Gear: Bryan Campbell Aviator Classic Sunglasses by Ray-Ban $153

Will Price, Associate Staff Writer: 1996 Toyota 4Runner

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Explain yourself: Sickening trunk space. I don’t pack light on road trips. Why should I? This isn’t air travel. I can bring whatever I want, so long as I don’t encroach on others’s leg room.

Anything else to add? The ’96 4Runner happens to be the car I learned to drive in. If you have the option (you probably won’t), you want the 4X4 stick shift model. Oh, and it needs to be red. Kismet led me to the man I rented this same car from some 10 years after learning to drive (in Puerto Rico of all places), and I’ll never forget bumping into cones while parallel parking or speeding up a mountain in it.

Where are you driving? You’ve got to rent the 4Runner from a suspect shirtless man in San Juan, Puerto Rico — with cash — and take the 149 to the 143, then Route 10. This runs you through an exceedingly up-and-down rain forest on crumbling gravel roads one-and-a-half cars wide. The canopy becomes so dense inside the Toro Negro rainforest it may as well be night, and oncoming vehicles aren’t keen on using headlights (honking horns is customary when swinging around blind corners). After a slew of switchbacks and 75-degree uphill shots the foliage finally thins, and the sun comes back. The rest of the drive you’re looking up the slopes of the tallest mountain on the island, and down at Poncé and San Juan far and below. When you arrive at Kurt’s coffee farm, you’ll be treated to a freshly grown, roasted and ground cup of espresso in a gazebo at cloud level. Not a bad reward for your efforts. (Hint: if there’s a chance of rain, do not go.)

Destination? Hacienda de Café Pomarrosa .

Best road trip snack? Certainly not beef jerky (sue me). Road trip snacking should feed into other timeless road trip activities, like rolling the windows down. Hence, roasted peanuts (unshelled) are peak road trip snack.

First song on your road trip playlist? “Triumph” by Wu-Tang Clan .

What’s your personal road trip philosophy? We’ll stop however many times we damn well please. Might we be a bit late? Sure. Do we care at all? No. I don’t always agree with the classics, but it’s the journey that you remember, not the destination. Before I embarked on my first road trip without him, my occasionally wise father told me this: if you’re thinking about getting there, you’re traveling, not road-tripping. This is either one of those really insightful messages or me glamorizing my dad’s words too much.

Essential Road Trip Gear: Will Price Aviators by Persol $259 Zinc Sunscreen by Babo Botanicals $22 Slippers by Derek Rose $195

Hunter D. Kelley, Associate Designer: 2018 Volvo V60 Polestar Wagon

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Explain yourself: The combination of stealth and power.

Anything else to add? This is one of the coolest wagons out there due to its sleeper status. It has classic Volvo styling mixed with subtle high-performance hints that not everyone will pick up on. To most, it looks like a standard Volvo V60, but to me, those massive Brembo brakes and blue Polestar badge tell me everything I need to know. This is not your father’s wagon.

Where are you driving? NY to LA as fast as possible.

Best road trip snack? Pizza Combos.

First song on your road trip playlist? “One” by Metallica .

What’s your personal road trip philosophy? Speed when possible, but do so safely. Don’t forget to take in the sights.

Essential Road Trip Gear: Hunter Kelley Waze Free MacigMount by Scosche $18+

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Best Road Trip Cars On A Budget

Most people want a comfortable, spacious vehicle when looking for a car for road trips . However, affordability is an issue too for many trippers.

Whether it’s a solo trip on backroads in rural areas or a family session on a connecting highway, anyone will welcome a budget-friendly option.

There are plenty of best road trip cars that are good for all types of travelers and are available at reasonable prices.

10 Best Road Trip Cars Within A Budget

We’ve rounded up a list of 5 vehicles that you can purchase at reasonable prices. When you are ready to hit the open road, consider these best road trip cars to make your journey more enjoyable.

1. Subaru WRX STI Wagon

The STI Wagon is an excellent all-wheel drive sports wagon that offers stellar on-road performance irrespective of the surface type.

Although the fuel economy (23 mpg on highway) won’t challenge a hybrid car, the turbocharged BOXER engine with 268hp provides a powerful performance.

It is also great for camping and hauling stuff as there is 19 cubic-foot cargo space that extends to 44.4 cubic-foot with the rear seats folded.

A new model is around $50,000 but you can score a good-conditioned used one for less than $25,000.

2. Mini Clubman

The back rood hustler is one of the best road trip cars at an affordable price. The latest models cost around $36,000 but the used units, especially the ones dated back to 2008, will cost less than $10,000.

The car’s cabin is not very spacious. However, it’s enough for two people packing gear and luggage for weeks.

3. 1986-1992 VW Westfalia Syncro

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The four-wheel drive Syncro was in production in the United States between 1986 and 1991. The beastly vehicles look like compact vans and have plenty of room inside, for both passengers and cargo.

Equipped like a mini motorhome and offering plenty of scopes for upgrades, the automobile is perfect for a family planning to hit the road and travel for months. You can get a used car for $20,000 to $30,000 but the highly upgraded ones are expensive.

4. Mazda MX-5 Miata

Another candidate in our best road trip cars line-up is a sports car and many people may not want to drive it for long road trips. However, if you need to drive 1,000 miles with a partner or alone, the MX-5 Miata will give you the experience to remember.

Driving this car is sheer fun because of its sharp steering and highly responsive brakes. The engine is powerful and you can choose between a six-speed automatic and manual transmission.

The price starts at $26,000 and there are several options for upgrades and add-ons.

5. Chrysler Pacifica

It’s one of the best road trips cars for families without any doubt. The clever engineering, well-made interior, and high safety ratings have given it a higher position among family-friendly vehicles.

The smooth acceleration and responsive handling coupled with good fuel economy are just perfect for hitting roads for long journeys.

There’s a rear seat entertainment system featuring a DVD player and playing music and games from HDMI-connected devices. The cost of the Pacifica Hybrid starts at around $40,000.

Buy a road trip cars, why not buy the trendiest models? Scroll down for your consideration.

6. Subaru Crosstrek

The best road trip cars must be practical, reliable, capable, and fun, and few automakers satisfy those requirements better than Subaru.

Obviously, it’s lovely to take a WRX STI cross country, but the fuel-sipping Crosstrek is added in our list for its rugged construction and well-rounded character.

Plus, there’s plenty of room for more speed and installing spoilers later. Fuel economy ratings are 27 mpg city and 33 mpg highway.

7. Honda HR-V

Honda’s smallest crossover claims 6.7 inches of ride height and an ingenious “Magic Seat” interior layout, which allows passengers to configure the cabin in five different modes — normal, split, tall, utility, and lounge.

The car can easily carry anything, whether it be luggage, bikes, tall plants, or even surfboards.

Perhaps the HR-V ’s biggest asset – its low cost – comes both at the dealer (starting MSRP is $20,520) and at the pump (it returns up to 28 mpg city/34 mpg highway when ordered with front-wheel drive). Throw in a set of safety features and you’re all set.

8. Aston Martin Rapide

Not our typical four-door, and as one of the most aesthetically-pleasing sedans ever made, the Rapide S flaunts Aston Martin’s core values of speed, style, and luxury more effectively than most.

We could not think of a better way to cruise down the lane than in this V12-powered stunner.

The Rapide’s 5.9-liter churns out 552 horsepower (that’s 138 ponies per seat) and shuttles all of it to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission.

It’ll hit 60 mph in 4.2 seconds until reaching a maximum speed of 203 mph, which is more than brisk enough to get you where you need to go quickly.

But when you look, listen, and feel this good, you might consider slowing down a bit to enjoy it.

9. Ford Mustang GT

The Ford Mustang GT is a legend through and through, with the sixth-generation model as the most refined version yet.

It has the best interior among any pony car, and with an independent suspension setup front and rear, this horse can corner like the best.

Ford recently updated the model with more tech features, too, including an available digital instrument cluster that will let you keep an eye on key road trip metrics like speed, distance to empty, and the tunes blasting through the speakers.

10. BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon

Diesel-powered cars have been caught up in the Dieselgate scandal but they’re not all bad actually. The technology’s penchant for stellar fuel economy makes it a splendid choice for long trips because.

Put simply, the fewer times you have to stop, the better fuel efficiency is. BMW’s diesel-powered 328d xDrive goes up to 40 mpg on the highway, and that’s pretty difficult to argue with its spot in the best road trip cars list today!

The engine is not the only element of a good road trip car. The xDrive Sports Wagon has a lot of storage room for bags, snacks, and all your favorite trivia games.

The ride can also be adjusted from smooth to stiff by switching between the driving modes, and the all-wheel-drive system can help handle when the weather turns bad.

Final Words

In summary, when looking for the best road trip cars , prioritize compact, fuel-efficient, and reliable options.

Consider used cars, focus on space and comfort, ensure modern connectivity features, and think about versatility for different terrains.

Don’t forget to budget for maintenance and check resale value. The right choice will enhance your road trip without breaking the bank.

20 Classic Cars That Will Make Any Road Trip a Memorable Experience

Even though we live in digital times where most of our hobbies and pastimes include electronic devices, driving is still one of the best analog ways to rewind on the open road. For any car enthusiast, there is no better way of spending the weekend than going for a long road trip while listening to music and counting the miles.

The perfect road trip car makes you happy, doesn’t break down and provides you with the pleasure of driving. Sometimes, the perfect road trip car isn’t fast or comfortable, but it is interesting and makes the trip memorable. So here is a list of the perfect road trip vehicles. Some cars are classic, and some are modern, some are two-seaters, and some are family station wagons, but all of them are cool rides.

These cars come equipped with the “it” factor, making them the choice for cross country adventures. This is an eclectic mix of cars capable of providing tons of smiles per gallon. They can keep passengers happy and amused for thousands of miles. So, pack your stuff and get ready for a fun ride.

Volvo 850 R

Is there anything more boring in the automotive world than a boxy, old, Volvo station wagon? The typical suburban mom car from the ’90s had loads of space for the kids and their stuff. It was slow but dependable and drop-dead boring to drive. Although that’s true for the regular Volvo 850 Wagon, the 1996 R version is something completely different.

After Volvo’s success with the T5 version in the 850 series featuring a turbocharged engine, they decided to introduce an all-out sleeper machine – the 850 R. Under the hood was a 2.3-liter five-cylinder engine with a bigger turbo and updated intake system and electronics. With a 250-HP output, the 850 R Wagon could go from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds with the top speed of almost 160 mph.

This was sports car territory for the mid-90s. There must have been many confused Porsche owners when those boring-looking Volvo wagons passed them on the highway. After the 850 R, many manufacturers like Audi started offering powerful, fast wagons. However, Volvo was the first with the 850 R.

Today, those performance numbers still demand respect. Better yet, the 850 R is quite affordable on the used car market. Also, you can find various power upgrades for this model, so consider buying this ultimate wagon. It has lots of space, as well as unassuming looks and performance. Yet it demands respect, making the 850 R the perfect car for a road trip.

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Mercury Marauder

Back in the ’60s, Mercury produced the Marauder, a high-performance version of their regular performance sedan. The model was popular but now, people have largely forgotten about it. In fact, more popular muscle cars from the same era have overshadowed it. But 40 years later, in 2003, Mercury introduced the final Marauder model they based on Ford’s Panther platform cars.

Ford’s Panther platform is one of longest serving platforms in the car industry. Ford used it from 1978 to 2011, underpinning many models like the Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis and Lincoln Town Car. This chassis was so sturdy and durable in extreme conditions, even police and taxi drivers used it. Today, six years after Ford discontinued it, millions of Panther-based models are still on the roads.

Even though Ford never intended the Grand Marquis to be a performance car, Mercury decided to turn it into one. They installed a highly tuned 4.6-liter V8 with 302 HP, as well as a revised suspension, gearbox and brakes. All those changes turned this sleepy, comfy sedan into a sharp muscle car. It came in three colors, but the black Marauder had menacing looks and an aggressive stance, differentiating it from its sedate cousins.

The performance was impressive for a big, heavy sedan. It could go from 0 to 60 mph in around seven seconds. However, the biggest asset was its appearance. Just the sight of this big, black sedan in the rearview mirror could make drivers want to pull over to the side of the road. It’s perfect for a road trip since nobody wants to mess with a black sedan with “undercover cop” looks.

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Mercedes 500E

Back in the early ’90s, Mercedes produced the successful but docile W124 E-Class. The elegant sedan was known for its comfort and refinement rather than performance and speed. The team of crazy German engineers was soon to change that and in 1991, they presented the mighty 500E model. This was a high-performance version of their main sedan. It featured a totally different drivetrain, suspension, brakes and engine.

In fact, the 500E was so demanding for production that Mercedes asked Porsche to assemble this car. The main feature of the 500E was the 5.0-liter V8 engine which developed 326 HP. This isn’t an impressive number by today’s standards, but it was a crazy figure for the early ’90s, especially in a formal sedan. The 500 E could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just six seconds which was almost as fast as a Ferrari 348.

The best thing was the design because the 500 E looked identical to the regular W124 Sedan. Only if you looked carefully, you would notice the bigger wheel arches and brakes, but nothing else revealed there was a monster under the hood. Mercedes offered badge delete as a no-cost option for its customers. And if you chose a black or silver color, you got a stealth sedan that ate Corvettes for breakfast.

Interestingly, you can pick up one of those German muscle sedans for around $20,000 in decent condition. There is no excuse not to buy one of these super sedans and go on a high speed, cross country trip in luxury.

RUF CTR Yellow Bird

Although this car is not an official Porsche product because it is tuner-designed and produced car, it is an important piece of 911 history. It is also one of the fastest Porsches they ever built. All throughout the Porsche 911 production, independent tuning companies introduced numerous versions with more power or design enhancements. This showed that the 911 as a concept still had big potential.

But, the German tuning house, RUF, was on another level. Their Yellow Bird was far more powerful, faster and agile than anything on the market in the late 80’s. Porsches are cool road trip cars, but modern models are a bit boring. They are so perfect and comfortable, they kill the essence of driving a sports car, but not the Yellow Bird.

RUF introduced the CTR in 1987 and the Yellow Bird was a highly tuned 911 featuring numerous upgrades. They included a special aerodynamic kit, NACA intercooler intake ducts, a big rear wing, a front bumper and special wheels. The biggest news was turbocharged 3.2-liter flat six with whopping 469 HP and 408 lb-ft. It made the Yellow Bird one of the fastest cars of the era.

The 0 to 60 mph acceleration was possible in just 3.65 seconds and its top speed was unbelievable 213 mph. The Yellow Bird was brutally expensive and extremely rare, but it showed that the 911 concept is extremely capable. It also proved there is so much to extract from a flat six engine. If you want one, you’ll have to search. They only built 29 Yellow Birds from scratch and the converted a few others from the customer’s cars.

Dodge Challenger R/T 440

Even though Plymouth had the Barracuda, which was the first pony car model they introduced two weeks before the Ford Mustang, its stablemate, Dodge didn’t enter the segment until 1970. Some muscle car historians said Dodge was almost late for the party, but the Challenger was so good that it left its mark and reserved a place in history. Mopar’s E-Body models, the Barracuda and Challenger were brand new for 1970. They featured new designs and better construction, as well as wider and longer bodies.

There was no significant mechanical difference between the Barracuda and the Challenger. The only difference was the design, although these two cars had some interchangeable bodywork parts, as well. They presented the Challenger with the full firepower of Mopar’s engines. Buyers could get the powerful 383 V8, as well as a big 440 and the famous 426 Hemi. The best performers were the 440 and the Hemi.

Depending on the specifications, differential ratio and gearboxes, Challengers equipped with those engines could accelerate to 60 mph in 5.5 to 5.7 seconds range, which was quick for 1970. Doing a road trip in a muscle car is a mainstream concept, but it is still cool and typically American. However, the 440 V8 is more common and almost as fast as the Hemi, and still cool-looking and unique, too.

Alfaholics GTA-R

Classic Alfa Romeos are one of the most beautiful yet obtainable classics from the ’60s. The romantic lines of the Tipo 105 Coupe are just as elegant and dynamic as they were 50 years ago. So it is not hard to understand why classic car fans went crazy over those beautiful coupes. However, those who know classic Alfas can tell you their beauty is often only skin deep. Alfas were famously rust-prone, not exactly well made and far from mechanically sound.

But, a company called Alfaholic from England is aware all of that as one of the prime restorers of classic Alfas in the UK. Over the years, the idea of the ultimate Alfa 105 Coupe emerged and Alfaholics had the knowledge and hardware to pull it off. So, in 2014 they produced the first restomod coupes they called the GTA-R 290.

From the outside, it looks like an Alfa Romeo GTA which is a classic racing version. But a second look reveals all the improvements and an amazing level of details. Under the hood is a blueprinted 2.3-liter four-cylinder twin-cam Alfa engine with individual throttle bodies and fuel injection. The engine delivers 240 HP and sends them to rear wheels over a special lightweight five-speed manual transmission.

The suspension is custom-made with disc brakes all around. The whole car weighs 1,500 pounds and can lap the famous Nurburgring track in less than eight minutes. Best of all, this Alfa won’t leave you stranded by the side of the road and won’t rust. So, it is perfect for a road trip.

Cadillac CTS-V

For years, Cadillac was without a proper performance series to compete with BMW or Mercedes but finally, the V-Series was born. It was all that Cadillac lovers dreamed of: powerful engines, world-class handling and suspension setups, and exclusive production. Even the competitors took notice when Cadillac rolled up with the new V-Series models.

Arguably the most successful was the second-generation CTS-V model they produced between 2008 and 2014. Under the hood was a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 with 556 HP, making the CTS-V the most powerful performance sedan on the market. The suspension and the rest of the drivetrain were advanced, so they considered the CTS-V one of the best driver’s cars available.

Cadillac produced three body styles, so the CTS-V could be had as a sedan, a coupe, and interestingly, as a wagon, too. The car was a blast to drive and extremely fast, but still comfortable and as well-equipped as Cadillac should be. That is why this American luxury sedan is the perfect pick for a road trip car.

Every BMW M3 since the first one in the late 80’s until the modern models are the prime examples of German muscle cars. However, the first generation of M3 is expensive now and with 215 HP, it’s not that fast. The second E36 M3 had only 240 HP for the North American market, which was disappointing. But the third, the E46 M3 is the car to go for if you are looking for a classic, fast, and dependable but relatively modern German muscle car.

And if your road trip route includes twisty parts, this is the BMW for you. In October 2000, they presented the E46 M3. It featured a new engine, drivetrain and components. Car fans and experts regard it as one of the finest BMW`s M cars and the perfect driving machine. All M cars are a blast to drive. But the E46 M3 was a big improvement over the E36 M3 from the ’90s.

In fact, it is one of the last analog sports cars you can buy. With a 343 HP straight six-cylinder engine, almost ideal weight distribution, six-speed manual transmission and respectable performance, the E46 M3 won the hearts of car enthusiasts all over the world. It was a sales success and one of the best secondhand performance cars you can buy today.

Chevrolet Corvette Z06

Chevrolet introduced the C5 Corvette in 1997 and brought several improvements as well as a fresh design. Under the sleek fiberglass body was an improved chassis, and a new 350 HP engine and transaxle gearbox. This meant they moved the whole transmission assembly to the rear axle, which improved balance and handling.

The standard versions were potent and popular, but the best model from this generation is the mighty Z06. This model got its name from a special version of the 1963 Corvette they intended to use for road racing before Chevrolet pulled the plug. The modern Z06 was an amplified base Corvette with 385 to 405 HP from the high revving 5.7-liter V8 engine. It also had a lightweight body, sticky Goodyear tires and a stiffer suspension.

The car handled perfectly and had a different roofline and wheels. Even today, more than 15 years after they presented it, the Corvette Z06 C5 is a tough car to beat on the street. If you are looking for a pure sports car experience and don’t have money for an expensive European exotic, this Corvette will provide the same driving dynamics for a fraction of the cost.

Lincoln Continental

This classic American sedan belongs on this list because despite being a cliché, luxury four-doors are still great road trip cars. The story of the Continental started in the late ’50s when Ford’s luxury division, Lincoln, was much behind Cadillac in sales numbers and in popularity and style. Despite building big and luxury cruisers with powerful engines, those late ’50s Lincolns just didn’t compare to Cadillacs. Ford decided that this had to change, so in 1961, the Lincoln Continental was born.

When Lincoln showed their new model, the automotive public was stunned. The beautiful elegance of the styling, conservative use of chrome, straight lines and futuristic design transformed the four-door luxury model into a work of modern art. Suddenly, sales doubled, and the new Continental became the official car of the White House due to its stately appearance and restrained elegance.

The best exterior features were the suicide doors, with the rear doors opening towards the traffic. Of course, this wasn’t the best solution, but it added to the charm of the Continental. Interestingly, Lincoln offered a cool-looking four-door convertible model which proved to be popular and quite unique on the market.

Chevrolet Suburban

Is there anything more American than going on a road trip in a Suburban? This is a big SUV that has been in production for over 80 years. They made the Suburban to be a people carrier and road trip vehicle. Despite being slow and not as exciting as some other cars on the list, the Suburban still has several tricks up its sleeve. The Suburban is the longest-serving nameplate in car history with the first model under this name emerging in 1935.

Right from the start, the Suburban defined itself as a people carrier in a body style closer to a minivan than to a regular wagon or SUV. During the ’50s and ’60s, the Suburban moved to a truck platform. It also benefited from advanced construction, tough suspension and a long list of engines and options. At the same time, Chevrolet introduced the all-wheel drive option for its truck line, so the Suburban could come with an AWD drivetrain, as well.

This was the moment Suburban became an off-road model. The all-wheel drive option proved popular during later generations. It even became an almost mandatory option for the famous, long-serving 7th generation they introduced in 1973 and discontinued in 1991.

Today, the Suburban is still around as a big, heavy full-size SUV, still on a truck chassis with V8 engines. It has lost some of its rugged character, but retained the basic layout and name. So, whichever generation you choose, you will have a dependable ride for those cross country trips.

Dodge Charger Hellcat

Everybody went crazy when Dodge announced the Hellcat Charger and Challenger models. But they expected this reaction since the 6.2-liter supercharged V8 with 707 HP is a monster of a muscle car that shouldn’t be on the streets. But Dodge did just that, allowing the public to buy one of the fastest, most powerful muscle cars they ever built. Despite being overpowered, the Dodge Charger Hellcat is surprisingly easy to drive and can be docile at low speeds.

It’s only when you press the throttle to unleash the fury of 707 supercharged horses will you feel the brutality of the Hellcat package and the power going to the rear wheels. The 0 to 60 mph times are in the high three-second range and the car can top 200 mph. So, is there a better four-door muscle car and road trip car? With the Hellcat, you can carry as much as you want in a regular family sedan, but blast around the country as fast as a private jet.

Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser

Produced from 1964 to 1977, the Vista Cruiser was Oldsmobile’s bestselling and most popular station wagon. It is also one of the models perfect for suburban America in the ’60s and ’70s. Vista Cruisers were all large, could seat up to nine people and always had V8 engines.

In the ’70s, they equipped them with a long list of optional extras, like wood grain trim and an interesting feature they called the Clamshell tailgate. Along with special features and powerful engines, the Vista Cruiser was the perfect road trip car.

Chrysler Minivan

Today, minivans are a common sight on the streets of America, but in the early ’80s, the concept of a minivan was nonexistent. So Chrysler invested in the production of front wheel drive people carriers with lots of space and comfort inside, but with compact dimensions.

This proved to be the perfect car for the times. Chrysler Corporation scored big with the enormous popularity of the Minivan. It was the perfect car for suburban America, replacing big, gas-thirsty station wagons and preceding the SUV craze of today. That is why a classic Chrysler Minivan is still a great road trio choice.

Jeep Wagoneer

One of the best classic road trip vehicles is the Wagoneer. It’s the original American SUV and a car famous for its perfect balance between comfort and off-road dynamics. Even today with the SUV craze sweeping America, a classic Jeep Wagoneer still is among the coolest road trip cars they ever made. It’s classic styling, powerful V8 engines and lots of room are a tough combination to beat.

Ford Bronco

This classic Ford SUV is not the biggest or most comfortable vehicle for your road trip adventure, but it is one of the coolest. It’s dependable mechanics and uncompromised off-road handling makes the Bronco the perfect choice if you spend a lot of time in nature.

Be sure to choose an early model with V8 power. You can remove the roof to enjoy open-air driving.

Chevrolet Impala SS

Big, luxurious, fast and comfortable: this is the classic Impala SS, which they produced from 1961 to 1969. The Impala SS featured the biggest, most powerful engines, lots of extras and an undeniable performance.

All of this makes it a perfect road trip car. It’s a fast cruiser for jumping from coast to coast and stealthy compared to other muscle cars of the period.

Buick Riviera GS

The Riviera GS with its big 425 CID engine is the epitome of the American Gran Tourismo luxury coupe. It is big and comfortable yet still is a fast and capable coupe.

Buick produced it from 1965 to 1972 in several generations. So Rivieras are easy to come by and inexpensive. But you should pick one now to enjoy it on an epic road trip before they become rare.

Although the Flex didn’t sell as well as Ford hoped, it is still a great crossover-minivan type of car. The Flex features retro styling and enormous interior space with nice features. Also, it has a powerful engine and even an optional all-wheel drive system.

This, along with its modern-day dependability, makes the Flex perfect for family road trips across the country.

Subaru BRAT

The Subaru BRAT was a popular compact, all-wheel drive pickup. But at first glance, it doesn’t look like a great road trip vehicle, since only two people can sit inside. However, the BRAT has two more seats.

They mounted them in the back, so passengers are exposed to the elements. This feature makes the BRAT perfect road trip vehicle if you want to prank your friends.

Are you planning a road trip this year? Perhaps one of 20 interesting cars that will make any road trip a memorable experience should be on your wish list.

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The Best Road Trip Cars

No matter if you are living in the USA or outside of it, you have probably at some point in your life dreamed of experiencing a classic road trip on its stunning routes. The country is really something else when it comes to travelling – it offers astounding views of all different kinds.

Breathtaking nature, including mountains or desserts, rivers and waterfalls take turn with cozy small towns or big shiny and luxurious cities. Whatever route you choose for your trip you are sure to have a once in a lifetime experience that you will not be forgetting anytime soon after the trip.

Going around the one-of-a-kind land of the USA will most definitely bring you most satisfaction if you do it by car. That way you have control over which routes you take, and you get to choose your own stops. Moreover, there are many more advantages that you can get from the best cars for long road trips.

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How to get the most of your road trip with the right car.

In case you are planning a long road trip across the USA, you are probably already wondering what the best road trip cars are. In case you plan to go with the vehicle that you already own, it might not turn out to be the best option, as there are numerous reasons why you should really be careful about what vehicle you pick for the trip.

The car on the road could really make-or-break your experience. Enjoying your travelling experience is not only defined by the comfort that your automobile provides, although that is undoubtedly one of the crucial factors.

Depending on whether you are taking your family for a bonding experience on the road, or you are going on a romantic experience with your partner , you should make sure to get a suitable type of automobile according to the specific situation.

In case you need advice for picking the correct vehicle while planning your travel, here we’ll present to you the best new cars for road trips according to the experts.

1. Ford Mustang

Speaking about top cars for road trips the chance that Ford Mustang won’t be mentioned is close to zero. The model is known more as one of the best sports cars, but when it comes to road trips it does a pretty awesome job too.

Although it is not convenient for a family trip, it will take you and your partner on a fast adventure on the classic USA roads.

2. Toyota Highlander Hybrid

Toyota Highlander is one of the best cars on the road that could take you on a safe and enjoyable trip across the USA. After all, SUVs are one of the most secure and at the same time fun cars to drive while travelling through many kilometers and across nature landscapes.

This model is equipped with innovative safety technology and other types of high-tech functionalities that could provide you a perfect sense of comfort even during long hours of driving.

3. Kia Telluride

Kia Telluride is the brand’s most recent SUV, that easily falls into the list of the best 2022 cars. The vehicle offers eight seats with enough space so that each participant in the experience gets maximum comfort.

The model also offers adaptive cruise control, a powerful engine, as well as a reliable safety system.

4. Subaru Legacy

If you are looking for the safest car on road, Subaru Legacy undoubtedly gets the top position in the rankings. It has scored top results in all tests and is classified as a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Both the exterior and the interior of the automobile are extremely luxurious, which you will notice if you look at best car images for road trips.

5. Ford Bronco Sport

Ford Bronco Sport is easily one of the best vehicles 2022 that could change your presumptions about what you could get from an automobile during a trip. “Baby Bronco” is compact and as the same time offers comfort, safety and a powerful engine that could take you across many kilometers as if it was nothing.

The independent rear suspension also guarantees that you will not be hearing the irritating engine noises even while driving across rough terrains.

6. BMW M440i Convertible

Driving a convertible on a road trip across the USA is undeniably the best way to get the closest to the classic image that you see on films and turn it into your reality. That model is classified by some people as the best car for traveling not only due to its comfortable leather seats and the open rooftop.

It has a robust engine that includes a hybrid technology, which provides speed, comfort and safety.

7. Land Rover Discovery

One of the greatest examples in the Best car for traveling list is definitely Discovery by Land Rover. It is the second largest SUV created by the company and provides you with everything you need for an enjoyable road trip.

8. Volkswagen ID.4

ID.4 by Volskwagen is still the best car to buy right now, although it won the World Car of the Year in 2021. Its exterior makes it worthy for a car show, but its interior and technology is what makes it the perfect car on the road.

The electric vehicle works with a fast charger that allows it to go from 5 to 80 percent for less than 40 mins.

9. Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro

The Toyota Sequoia guarantees a delightful experience during road trips for a lot of family members and friends together, and at the same time its engine could be truly powerful. It resembles the popular Land Cruiser but its more affordable and provides more space for travelers and luggage.

10. Chevrolet Spark

The Chevrolet Spark is an affordable and at the same time stylish and comfortable car on road. It is perfect for a budget-friendly road trip and could carry up to four travelers at a time.

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Best Dog Crates for Car Travel of 2024

Taking your pup on a road trip can be a fun experience but only if you have one of the safest dog crates for car travel. Even if you’re not traveling cross-country, a crash-tested carrier is one of the most important purchases to keep them safe for long-haul car trips and even a quick jaunt to the vet.

We selected crates and carriers that are crash-tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), a nonprofit that evaluates the safety of pet travel products. To aid in our selection, we also enlisted the guidance of a dog trainer who helped inform us about the importance of pet safety when traveling in a vehicle. Our list of the best dog crates for car travel has something to make every dog’s next road trip a success.

Table of Contents

Best Dog Crates for Car Travel
Things To Consider When Buying
How We Chose

Gunner G1 Kennel »

Crash-tested and certified by CPS

Double-walled

Available in four sizes

Proven to protect pets in serious accidents

Tie-down straps sold separately

Not chew-proof

When traveling with your pet, keeping them safe in the car is the biggest priority. While there are plenty of travel crates on the market, the most effective are crash-tested and certified by CPS. This nonprofit evaluates the safety claims of pet travel products. Passing crash tests is no small feat, and only a handful of products receive the CPS’s seal of approval. One of those products is the Gunner G1 Kennel.

Available in four sizes – though the large size hasn’t been tested and certified by CPS – for puppies to large breeds, the Gunner G1 Kennel has a double-walled design to keep pets safe in an accident. Its double walls also have the added benefit of providing temperature regulation, keeping your pup cool even in hot weather. The crate has built-in pins for tie-down straps to secure the crate in a vehicle, although customers must purchase the straps separately.

Crash-test certification is an excellent feature and something pet parents should prioritize when searching for a travel crate. However, it does come at a cost. The Gunner G1 Kennel is on the higher end of travel crates and one of the most expensive options. Aside from its cost, some users take issue with the crate’s weight, which ranges from 27 pounds for the small kennel to 72 pounds for the large kennel. Sturdiness and durability are important in a travel crate, so we don’t necessarily consider this to be a con. However, a heavy crate can be an inconvenience.

Sleepypod Atom »

More affordable option

Features top and side entries

Available in six colors

Not as much ventilation

Only suitable for pets up to 12 pounds

A budget dog crate for car travel is hard to come by, especially if you’re looking for a crash-tested and certified model, but the Sleepypod Atom is one of the safest options that doesn’t cost a few hundred dollars. This carrier features comfortable bedding for your pet to relax in, is suitable for the back seat of a car, and fits under the seats of most airplanes. The Atom also sports top and side entry points to make getting in and out a breeze for your pet. Plus, like all Sleepypod carriers, the Atom is available in various colors.

A downside of this crate is that it isn’t suitable for larger pets. With a weight limit of 12 pounds, only toy breeds can take advantage of this carrier. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t find a great car restraint for larger pets with a smaller budget. Sleepypod also makes one of the best car seat belts to keep large dogs safe and comfortable in a vehicle.

Sleepypod Mini »

Suitable for puppies and kittens up to 7 pounds

Doubles as a bed

Can fit under airplane seat

Available in nine colors

Some users had sizing issues

Zipper that connects cover to bed can be flimsy

The correct size of travel crate is essential for keeping your pet safe during transit, says Nicole Ellis, a professional dog trainer and pet lifestyle expert for rover.com. When traveling, a dog should touch three of the four walls of the crate or carrier to minimize the chance of movement during a collision. Getting a tiny crate that fits a puppy properly can be challenging, but the Sleepypod Mini is ideal for pint-sized pups with a weight capacity of 7 pounds. Beyond being crash-tested and certified by the CPS, this carrier can be used with cats and allows you to carry your furry friend with you on an airplane. (However, always check individual airline recommendations before flying with your pet.)

Regardless of how you’re traveling, this carrier will keep your pet cozy, comfortable, and safe. The included bed can be used as your pup’s primary sleeping place when not jet-setting around the world, which may help acclimate your puppy to being contained in a small carrier during travel times.

While the Sleepypod Mini suits most teacup pups, some users struggled to get the correct fit, as Sleepypod also makes the Mobile Pet Bed, a medium-sized equivalent of the Mini. We recommend measuring before purchasing to ensure you get the right fit for your four-legged friend.

Away The Pet Carrier »

Compact but safe for smaller pups

Clip to secure your pet within carrier

Airline-approved

Removable bedding

Only suitable for pets up to 18 pounds

Not as soft as some soft-sided carriers

Small breeds can be easier to travel with because they don’t take up as much space, but the travel is only simple if you have the right gear. The Pet Carrier by luggage brand Away is the ideal soft-sided crate for transporting small dogs in a car. Its features include top and side entry points for your animal, removable bedding for comfort, a retractable mesh privacy screen, and a collar clip to keep your pup from springing out of the carrier when opened. It also has a firm bottom, which stops the carrier from folding during transit – a feature Ellis says is important to prevent your dog from sliding around in the crate.

Car travel is a breeze with this carrier: Just secure it to your vehicle’s back seat via a belt around the headrest. Traveling by air with your pet? This carrier can sit snugly on top of your luggage , securing to the handle of any Away suitcase via a trolley sleeve. (For travelers who do take their pups on planes, note that while the material is soft, some users found it wasn't flexible enough to fit under every airline seat.) The downside of this carrier is that it’s only suitable for small breeds weighing less than 18 pounds, so medium and large pets are out of luck.

Lucky Duck Lucky Kennel »

Suitable for pets up to 110 pounds (large size)

Drainage holes for easy cleanup

Lightweight

Bed pad sold separately

Finding a dog crate for car travel that suits big breeds can be tough, but Lucky Duck makes one of our favorite kennels ideal for medium to large dogs. With a capacity to hold pups as big as 110 pounds, the large version of the Lucky Kennel can keep up with large dogs without weighing you down. Unlike most crash-tested travel crates, this kennel is lightweight at only 45 pounds, making it much more accessible to lift in and out of a vehicle. Another nice feature is its drainage and ventilation holes. The drainage holes are excellent to have in the event of a potty accident, as any liquid in the kennel is directed to the drainage holes via the slightly pitched floor of the crate .

The drain holes are a nice plus, but they make it difficult to place a bed within the crate. As such, Lucky Dog offers its own bed to fit inside – a nice-to-have feature to ensure your pup’s comfort during travel. However, if you want to purchase the bed pad for your dog, you’ll have to do so separately. Lucky Dog also requires the separate purchase of ratchet straps – a type of restraint that keeps the crate tied down to a vehicle – instead of providing them with the kennel. Remember this when purchasing this crate because Lucky Dog kennels are only crash-tested and certified by the CPS in combination with these tie-down straps.

Paravel Cabana Pet Carrier »

Smaller footprint than most carriers

Folds flat for easy storage

Made from recycled materials

Only fits pets up to 20 pounds

Some users found shoulder strap held up poorly

The best dog carriers for small cars won’t take up too much space in the back seat of a vehicle, and the Paravel Cabana Pet Carrier fits the bill. At just 11 inches long, this soft-sided carrier can easily fit within the back seat of any small car. It’s also less than 1 foot high, easily letting you see over the top of the carrier. However, the small footprint won’t squeeze your pet.

The Cabana Pet Carrier is more than 20 inches wide, which makes it easily able to hold pups up to 20 pounds. Another handy space-saving element of this carrier is its ability to fold completely flat so that when your pet isn’t in the vehicle with you, the back seat can be reclaimed for passengers or cargo.

While this crash-tested and certified carrier is a safe, space-saving option for small cars, a few users found it wasn’t the best option as a shoulder bag, as the shoulder strap broke for some buyers.

Cabela's GunDog Intermediate Dog Kennel »

Tie-down strap kit and safety bar included

Nonslip rubber feet

Only one size

No included crate pad

When using a crash-tested crate in a large vehicle such as an SUV, it’s important to tie it down using straps or bolts to ensure the kennel doesn’t shift during transit. However, most crate manufacturers don’t include these tie-down straps with the purchase of a kennel, and these can often pack on an additional hundred dollars to an already expensive purchase. The Cabela’s GunDog Intermediate Dog Kennel is an excellent option for those who want the tie-down straps included to keep their pup safe in the back seat or trunk of an extra-large vehicle. The included tie-down strap kit can secure this crash-tested crate to most large cars, and the rubber feet offer additional nonslip reinforcement for more stability.

The kennel allows users to choose on which side they want the door to open – a handy feature to ensure ease of use. The downside of this crate is that it’s only available in one size, leaving few options for dogs between a medium and large size. It also comes as is, meaning no crate pad or bedding is included for your pup.

The Bottom Line

Choosing the best dog crate for car travel is a weighty decision, and you should always keep your pet’s safety top of mind. The good news is there are many excellent crates and carriers available that are crash-tested and certified, providing your pup with a safe and comfortable place during a road trip.

Our best overall pick is the Gunner G1 Kennel, which has some of the best features we’ve seen on a travel crate. Its double-walled design reinforces the kennel's safety while keeping your dog cool on hot days. It also has one of the most diverse size ranges available for crash-tested crates, making it suitable for small pups and large breeds alike.

Things To Consider When Buying Dog Crates for Car Travel

Safety Certifications: The best dog crates for car travel are crash-tested by the CPS. The pet industry has few regulations for travel products, and some brands may make unjustified safety claims. Even with products certified by the CPS, remember that certifications vary, and a product may not be approved for use with dogs weighing more than a certain amount or without additions such as tie-down straps.

Size and Weight Capacity: Choosing the correct size kennel is vital for keeping your dog safe during travel, whether traveling with your pet in a car or on a plane. There’s no one-size-fits-all crate, so remember to measure your pet and follow the measurement and weight guidelines provided by the manufacturer to achieve a good fit.

Ellis says that while we might have an instinct to buy a bigger crate to give our pups more space to lounge, it’s important to hold off on this impulse. “[O]ur dogs should be snug. So when thinking of a [crash-tested crate], our dog should really be touching three of the four walls [when they] lay down,” she says. Ellis also encourages pet parents to avoid extra space within a crate because that’s where the dog will move during a collision.

Material: Each dog kennel is constructed differently, but there are some materials to look for when considering dog crates for travel. Ellis likes soft-sided carriers with a firm bottom that ensures a pet stays stable during transport. She also says that ballistic nylon – a material that’s resistant to water and chew damage – is great.

Hard crates tend to be made of materials like rubber or rotomolded walls. Rotomolding is a type of plastic construction, and its benefits include being durable and thick enough to withstand excessive force, such as the type that would be exerted in a car accident.

While crash-tested crates vary in material, Ellis notes that one material pet parents should avoid is wire, specifically in wire-style crates. These crates are acceptable for at-home use but not for travel. Ellis says a wire crate may break into small pieces and impale your pet in the event of a collision.

Vehicle Compatibility: Most crash-tested crates suitable for car travel can be used in any vehicle. However, measure the back seat of your car to ensure that the crate will fit. Some crates intended for larger dogs may not fit in the back seat as easily as smaller soft-sided carriers. These crates may instead be used in the trunk of a vehicle, although they usually require tie-down straps to keep them in place. Ellis says it’s important to check your specific vehicle’s attachment points if you opt for a crate that requires latching in that way.

It’s also vital to remember that while a crate may sit in a vehicle's back seat, trunk, or bed, it should never be placed in the front seat. Ellis says regardless of what crate or carrier your pup is in, your dog can still be injured by an airbag if traveling in the front seat of a car.

How We Chose the Best Dog Dog Crates for Car Travel

At U.S News 360 Reviews, our editors and contributing writers evaluate products based on research, expert guidance, and our own experience as professional product reviewers. Our contributing writer consulted the CPS’s list of crash-tested and certified dog crates and carriers to find the best options for dogs big and small. We also consulted Nicole Ellis , a certified professional dog trainer and pet lifestyle expert with rover.com to understand how to keep pets safe during car travel.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

Sophia Carlisle , the author of this piece, has covered pet products for Business Insider as a fellow and, prior to that, fostered dogs and cats for years. She has tested dozens of dog products with her rescue pit mix Lyla, including harnesses, food, and leashes. For U.S. News 360 Reviews, Sophia has covered some of the best products for pups, such as the best dog harnesses and slow feeder dog bowls .

The most important safety feature of a dog crate for car travel is that it’s crash-tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS). Other safety features to watch for include crates and carriers with tie-down straps. Some crates for large dogs are only certified by the CPS with tie-down straps, which help to keep a large crate stable during transit.

Regardless of which CPS-certified crate you choose, Ellis, a certified professional dog trainer, says it’s always essential to restrain your pet in a vehicle. Even the most well-trained dog can cause a distraction, leap out of an open window, or become a projectile in the event of an accident, so keeping them secure during travel is necessary.

If a crate or carrier passes crash safety standards set by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), it receives a rating between 1 Star and 5 Star. The very best dog crates for car travel receive a 5 Star safety rating.

If a brand or product claims to be certified by the CPS, check directly on the website to ensure it has passed crash testing. Some products have undergone crash testing but have failed or had their certification revoked. If a crate or carrier isn’t crash-test certified by the CPS, it’s unsafe to use with your pet for car travel.

Finding the correct size crate for your dog can be tricky, so take careful measurements of your pup and compare them with the weight and length measurements provided by the brand. Ellis, a pet lifestyle expert with rover.com, says that dogs should fit snugly inside their crates, so avoid opting for a larger size than your dog needs.

Compatibility with your vehicle is also important to consider when selecting the best travel crate for your pup. Ellis says it’s best to place the crate in the trunk or back seat of the car. Ensure you check whether or not the crate requires tie-down straps and if those straps can be attached to the latch points in your vehicle.

About Our Team

Sophia Carlisle

Contributor

Kayla Randolph

Associate Editor

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

Best Road Trip Movies, Ranked

Y earning for the open road? Look no further! Hollywood is no stranger to producing entertaining road trip movies that feature iconic cross-country adventures. While some audiences just can’t seem to get enough of this comedy staple, others flock to theaters for films that take a more heartfelt approach to the genre, utilizing the road trip as a way to express maturation, character development, and coming-of-age themes. Sometimes it's nice to live vicariously through the lives of these big-screen characters. With such an impressive list of beloved classics to choose from, determining the greatest among these films is difficult.

Updated May 18th, 2023: If you're a fan of the open road, you'll be glad to know this article was recently updated with new content by fellow travel enthusiast Amanda Minchin .

So whether you're yearning for some comedic relief from life's difficulties or are just wanting to see the world from a new perspective, these films, with their array of hijinks and chaos, will prove entertaining for audiences of all ages. Instead of needing to hop in the car, sit down, grab the remote, and explore the open road from the comfort of your home. Here is our deep dive into the best road trip movies throughout cinema history.

Dumb and Dumber

The iconic buddy-comedy Dumb and Dumber stars Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels as two dimwitted yet well-meaning friends who set off on a cross-country road trip from Providence, Rhode Island, to Aspen, Colorado, in order to return a briefcase full of money.

Related: Why Dumb and Dumber Is a Perfect Road Trip Movie

The charm of this film lies in the delightful ignorance of Lloyd and Harry, whose personas simply don’t allow for a light bulb moment. They have absolutely no desire to either learn or grow during their hilariously harrowing journey and, as a result, they ultimately go off on many a zany adventure without learning all that much. Dumb and Dumber found great success at the box office upon its release, becoming one of the most iconic of 1994 .

Y Tu Mamá También

Y Tu Mamá También is the coming-of-age tale of two teenage boys who set out on a road trip with an older woman in her late twenties. This Alfonso Cuaron road movie features a talented cast, including Diego Luna, Gael García Bernal, and Maribel Verdú, who shine against the backdrop of Mexico’s economic and political realities in 1999.

This intimate and tender story is also an exploration of sexuality and maturity. The young men's journey leads to self-discovery and a loss of innocence amidst the stunning road trip setting. The film uses travel and journey as a metaphor. As a result, audiences are able to witness the transformation of the leads from adolescence to adulthood in a fresh and authentic way.

Easy Rider is arguably one of the most important road trip movies in cinema history. This film, which received critical praise upon its release, is credited with helping to spark the New Hollywood era of the 1970s. This 1969 independent road drama tells the story of two bikers who embark on a journey through the American South and Southwest, transporting the proceeds of a cocaine deal.

The film stars Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper as the lead bikers, alongside the memorable performance of Jack Nicholson as the boozy lawyer they pick up along the way. This classic flick focuses heavily on the journey, not the destination, as the free-spirited bikers get a harsh dose of reality during their travels across the country.

It Happened One Night

It Happened One Night is an infamous screwball comedy , and with good reason. Widely considered the first, it soon became the roadmap for others to follow after its release in the early 30s. The movie also arguably launched the careers of stars Claudette Colbert and Clark Gable. In the film, Colbert played an heiress on the run back to her true love. Gable, meanwhile, played the intrepid reporter following shortly behind. They travel from Florida to New York in increasingly jerry-rigged modes of transportation and, of course, wind up falling in love in the process.

At the time, a movie about an unmarried couple traveling together was sure to ruffle a few feathers. Considered a Pre-Code film (though the Hays Code was in effect, it was not officially enforced for all pictures until shortly thereafter), this movie managed to skirt the censors by covering any sense of impropriety with snappy dialogue, cheeky humor, and endless innuendo... thus creating the screwball comedy in the process. For example, Frank Capra and crew got around the pair sharing a room together during their travels by dividing said room with a bedsheet that the characters literally nickname “The Walls of Jericho.” Any source of seduction was at most a suggestion, as demonstrated by Colbert’s last-ditch use of her *gasp* bare leg to hail a passing car, though that too was considered rather scandalous in passing.

The touching and deeply endearing 1988 classic Rain Man tells the story of conceited jerk Charlie Babbitt who, upon his wealthy father’s death, discovers the inheritance has been left to his unknown autistic-savant brother Raymond. Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman deliver powerful performances as Charlie and Raymond, for which the latter earned an Academy Award.

As the brothers travel from Cincinnati to Los Angeles, Charlie witnesses the restrictions of Raymond’s condition and, in turn, gains a new perspective on life. The film’s unique premise and the chemistry between Cruise and Hoffman as they travel the country, make this a road trip staple.

Little Miss Sunshine

Oscar-winning dramedy Little Miss Sunshine features an all-star cast (including Steve Carell, Greg Kinnear, Toni Collette, and Abigail Breslin). It tells the story of a barely-functional family who are determined to get their daughter to the finals of a beauty pageant. Setting off in their VW bus (which requires a rolling start), the Hoover clan soon embark on an 800-mile road trip to California. Their goal of reaching the beauty pageant is what ultimately brings the family together.

The script for this film is both funny and heartfelt, and Michael Arndt received the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay for his effort. The colorful characters add depth and humor to the plot, which is tied up nicely by the end. Little Miss Sunshine was one of those indie films from the 2000s that broke out with mainstream audiences, and part of that is it perfectly captures what it is like to be stuck with one's family for a long road trip.

Into the Wild

This film is for those whose wanderlust leads them to less tread pastures. Based on the book by Jon Krakauer, Into The Wild tells the true story of an Emory college graduate and athlete who renounces his family fortune and sets off on a hitchhiking adventure that leads him deep into the Alaskan wilderness. Written, directed, and produced by Sean Penn, the film version stars Emile Hirsch as Chris McCandless, a.k.a. Alexander Supertramp.

Upon its release, the film was nominated for many awards, including Golden Globes and Academy Awards. It was soon added to many of the top lists that year. The abandoned bus that housed the final days of the real-life McCandless even became a pilgrimage site for fans until it had to be airlifted to a safer location. Those wanting to dive into a smaller, safer venture should carve out the 2 ½ hours for this film.

Almost Famous

The critically acclaimed Cameron Crowe dramedy Almost Famous is the ultimate coming-of-age film with an ensemble cast of Hollywood heavy hitters like Billy Crudup, Kate Hudson, Frances McDormand, and Jason Lee. The movie is loosely based on Crowe's own experience as a writer for Rolling Stone magazine.

Almost Famous tells the story of a young 1970s Rolling Stone journalist William Miller and his epic journey of self-discovery as he travels with the fictitious rock band Stillwater. As he follows them across the country, William experiences the highs and lows of adolescence: falling in love, being rejected, making friends, and ultimately accepting himself. The movie received critical acclaim and numerous accolades and is included in many lists of the greatest films ever made.

Thelma and Louise

Arguably the ultimate female buddy movie , 1991’s Thelma and Louise tells the unforgettable tale of two best friends who take off for the open road after a tragic event forces them to flee for greener pastures. Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon star as the ride-or-die duo who zip across the country in Thelma’s 1966 Ford Thunderbird.

Related: How Thelma and Louise Is a Queer Allegory

The iconic friendship of the film's titular leads, impressively performed by Davis and Sarandon, firmly cements it as a landmark feminist film. The movie also features a young Brad Pitt in one of his first major roles as a drifter who catches Thelma's eye. The iconic ending of Thelma and Louise remains one of the greatest in Hollywood history to this day.

The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert

The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert quickly cemented Australia’s cultural status as a producer of quirky, independent cinema when it was first released in 1994. What could have ended as a dumpster fire of epic proportions was instead a surprisingly tender and thoughtful road movie. Featuring a soundtrack of campy classics bolstered by supreme performances from Terence Stamp, Hugo Weaving, and Guy Pearce, the plot follows two drag queens and one transgender woman as they go on tour in Australia.

While the movie arguably may have been even better having an actual trans woman or drag culture enthusiast cast, the trio sure put on one hell of a show as they traverse the literal Outback in sequins, beads, and platform heels. The film, which was written and directed by Stephan Elliott, would later be adapted into a musical. The play premiered in Sydney in 2006 before touring throughout the country. It would eventually be welcomed onto the Broadway stage a few years later in 2011.

The Blues Brothers

Beloved Saturday Night Live alums John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd reprised their sketch characters for the silver screen as “Joliet” Jake Blues and blood brother Elwood in 1980s The Blues Brothers . The pair are hilarious as sleazy musicians who make it their mission to save the orphanage they were raised in from foreclosure.

The classic comedy focuses on Jake and Elwood as they reunite their R&B band and travel around Chicago in their “bluesmobile,” playing music for money. With exciting car chases, comical shootouts, and unforgettable musical numbers, The Blues Brothers remains an iconic classic of road-trip cinema.

National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983)

This film kick-started a beloved comedy franchise that continues to this day. 1983’s National Lampoon’s Vacation focuses on the Griswold family as their patriarch leads them on a cross-country trip to an amusement park... Naturally, chaos and hilarity arise. The ultimate success of this movie led to a barrage of sequels.

Starring Saturday Night Live alum Chevy Chase as Clark Griswold, Vacation also features the talents of Beverly D’Angelo, Anthony Michael Hall, and Dana Barron as his wife and less-than-adoring children. Chase is brilliant as the comical and determined Clark. This outrageous farce depicts the reality of a family on vacation. None of them are perfect, and all of them are full of endearing dysfunction as they try and fail to have a good time.

Planes, Trains and Automobiles

Comedy legends Steve Martin and John Candy partnered up with famed director John Hughes for 1987’s Planes, Trains and Automobiles . Martin starred as uptight Neal Page, while Candy portrayed the overbearing but kind-hearted Del Griffith. Stuck together, the pair join forces in an effort to get Neal home to Chicago in time for his family's Thanksgiving dinner. Because of this, it has since become a Thanksgiving classic.

The chemistry between the two leads in this film is as effortless as it is hilarious. This movie features plenty of sidesplitting situations while also being surprisingly emotional at times. Planes, Trains and Automobiles is a heartfelt flick that utilizes its comedic talent to the fullest. Planes, Trains and Automobiles is a comedic masterpiece that has endured for decades.

Best Pickup Trucks for 2024 and 2025

From compact runabouts to heavy-duty haulers, trucks have impressive versatility. Here are the best pickup trucks in every segment that will meet your needs.

Pickup trucks are a staple of American car culture and consistently rank among the bestselling vehicles in the U.S. year after year. Offering a wide range of uses, pickup trucks can do just about everything. They can pull heavy loads, haul large items such as furniture or lumber, provide plenty of room for passengers, and even embark on off-road adventures—all while cosseting you in a comfortable, high-tech environment. Their strength, versatility, and rugged charm are precisely why people enjoy them. If you're trying to decide which truck to buy, here we've rated best pickup trucks that you should consider. We started with the smallest and least expensive models and went up from there in terms of size, price, and capability.

Compact: 2024 Ford Maverick

Base Price: $25,410

Compact: 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz

Base Price: $29,000 (est)

Another mild-mannered compact truck , the Hyundai Santa Cruz is for people who need to do truck-type things but don’t want to deal with the size or expense of a mid-size or full-sized truck. It looks more like a crossover than a conventional truck, and the Santa Cruz’s unibody provides a much better ride and handling balance than body-on-frame trucks do. It's also fuel-efficient for a truck, scoring up to 23 mpg combined according to the EPA. A high-tech digital gauge cluster and an expensive-looking interior will make you think you’re in a nice SUV rather than a chameleon of a pickup.

Check Out our review of the Santa Cruz

Mid-Size: 2024 Chevrolet Colorado

the 2024 colorado zr2 bison rock crawling on an off road trail

Base Price: $31,095

The Chevy Colorado is a mid-size truck that can do the work of a full-size truck. Powered by a turbocharged 2.7-liter inline-four engine, it offers between 237 or 310 horsepower depending on which version you choose. The Trail Boss and Z71 models can tow up to 7700 pounds. For the Colorado's latest generation, Chevrolet upgraded the interior with more driver-friendly ergonomics, and it comes only as a crew-cab model with a relatively roomy rear seat.

We Drive the Colorado ZR2 with a 1970 Blazer

Mid-Size: 2024 Toyota Tacoma

a white truck driving on a dirt road in the woods

Base Price: $32,995

The Toyota Tacoma was redesigned for the 2024 model year, and the fourth-generation model is a big step up from the old model. More modern features and numerous options for the off-road adventurer make this Taco even beefier than before. Rugged good looks both inside and out prove that the Toyota Tacoma can hold its own compared to its rivals. It's one of the few trucks still offered with a manual transmission, and dare we say it's as fun as a Baja Blast?

Review: New Tacoma Is a Huge Leap Forward

Mid-Size: 2024 GMC Canyon

a black truck parked on a rocky area with trees in the background

Base Price: $37,595

The mid-size GMC Canyon is an affordable truck at the base level, but it can change exponentially depending on the trim and options. Fancy it up with the $52,595 Canyon Denali, or go balls to the wall with the off-road-oriented Colorado AT4X AEV. Either way, any GMC Canyon will offer you a balanced ride in comfort and style. It shares its mechanicals with the Chevy Colorado, including the turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that's standard across the board.

Review: The Canyon AT4X Does Everything

Mid-Size: 2024 Honda Ridgeline

Base Price: $41,145

The Honda Ridgeline boasts the same no-nonsense character and value found in Honda's cars and SUVs. It may not be the truck for climbing rocky terrain or rolling coal, but the Ridgeline is highly practical and is an ideal truck for many real-life, day-to-day uses. The lockable cargo trunk inside the bed accommodates lots of stuff, and the rear seat inside the cab provides excellent legroom for the average adult. In a sea of fuel-guzzling, middleweight-class muscle trucks, the Honda Ridgeline is a fuel-efficient, highly competent, well-mannered truck.

We Drive the Ridgeline Black Edition

Mid-Size EV: 2024 Rivian R1T

rivian r1t 2022 blue specs price release date

Base Price: $71,700

The electric Rivian R1T is the quickest pickup truck on the market. Let’s just start by saying that. The quad-motor Rivian R1T has 835 hp, gets to 60 mph in 3.0 seconds, can tow 11,000 pounds, and can do it quieter than a mime screaming. A plush interior with a roomy rear seat and a large display screen will keep you and your passengers comfortable for long hauls. The R1T is not short on storage, either, with hidden lockable compartments in the frunk (front trunk), the bed, and the side-accessible Gear Tunnels. Depending on the battery pack you choose, the driving range is between 270 and 410 miles. It’s adventure and road trip-ready.

Everything You Need to Know

Full-Size: 2025 Ram 1500

Base Price: $42,270

The 2025 Ram 1500 has an upgraded interior with a larger infotainment screen, but the exterior styling and powertrains are new, too. The V-8 goes away and is replaced with a stout twin-turbo inline-six engine with up to 540 horsepower. With lots of trim levels and powertrains to choose from (including the upcoming plug-in-hybrid Ramcharger or electric Ram REV ), the Ram 1500 can help with everything from trips to the lumber yard or getaways in the mountains. Every Ram 1500 offers a smooth and comfortable ride thanks to the coil-spring rear suspension; most full-size-truck competitors still use rougher-riding leaf springs.

Review: Hurricane Engine Makes for a New type of Ram

Full-Size: 2024 Ford F-150

2024 ford f 150 preproduction model shown with optional features available early 2024 actual production vehicle may vary

Base Price: $38,765

No matter which version you choose, the Ford F-150 remains one of the best full-size trucks on the market. Generous passenger space adds to the comfort and capabilities of a mobile workspace, and the optional max-recline seats make it a decent sleeping den. With multiple powertrain choices including twin-turbo V-6s, V-8s, and even a hybrid option, plus endless configurations inside the cabin, the F-150 is a highly appealing truck for the modern Renaissance person.

See the Refreshed 2024 Model

Full-Size: 2024 GMC Sierra 1500

a silver truck parked on a road by a body of water

Base Price: $39,345

The GMC Sierra 1500 attempts to meet the needs of a vast spectrum of drivers. It's available with a choice of four different engines including a Duramax diesel; either two- or four-wheel drive; regular, double, or crew cabs; and short, standard, and long bed lengths. It makes us feel like it’s the good old days when manufacturers offered a-la-carte options when building your perfect truck. All come with a large 12.3-inch infotainment screen, but again, with multiple options for interior trim, you can have everything from a head-up display to open-pore wood trim and fancy leather. Eeenie, Meenie, Money, Mo.

Take a look at the hard-core off-road AEV Edition

Full-Size: 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2

the first ever 2022 chevrolet silverado zr2

Base Price: $71,895

The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 hasn’t changed much in recent years, but the off-road-oriented ZR2 model—our favorite of the bunch— adds a 305-hp Duramax turbo-diesel 3.0-liter inline-six engine option. This gives it a leg up on the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500, which don't offer diesels. The ZR2 also has skid plates protecting the underbody, and modified front bumper makes crawling over rocky terrain even easier. Only available as a crew cab, the ZR2 has plenty of room for passengers, and it comes with a 147-inch cargo bed for hauling.

Review: ZR2 is happiest in the mud

Full-Size: 2024 Ram 1500 TRX

Base Price: $98,335

Just like the last season of Seinfeld, all good things must end, and why not end it on a high note and still be loved by all? Ram has gotten the memo, and it will be “No soup for you” for the future of the Ram 1500 TRX. Ending production this year, the TRX and its massively powerful supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine will be available in a limited Final Edition that offers special color combos, beadlock-capable wheels, and other unique styling options. Still sad you can’t afford one? Us too. Luckily, the TRX has a little sibling coming in as a replacement. Called the Ram 1500 RHO , this new model begins production for 2025 and is a six-cylinder performance model meant to fill the T-rex shaped gap in the lineup.

Watch Ram TRX Donuts go Wrong very quickly

Full-Size: 2024 Ford F-150 Raptor

Base Price: $80,325

If going bananas is your style and cash is just burning a hole in your pockets, then the Ford F-150 Raptor could be the truck for you. There's no doubt that roaring around in this 450-hp twin-turbo V-6 powerhouse will make you smile. That’s when Ford will say, “..but wait..there’s more.” The Raptor R has a 720-hp supercharged V-8 that brings even more of a party. The interior styling is similar to the standard F-150's, and the impressively modified suspension incorporates Fox shocks and provides both incredible ride quality and desert-running capabilities. This aggressively styled truck is eager to please on and off the road. It’s not the best of the best, it’s the best of the beasts.

We Drive the Raptor R

Full-Size EV: 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning

Base Price: $57,090

The Ford F-150 Lighting may be hiding in plain sight compared to other EV trucks on the road. It fashions the same face as the gas-powered F-150 for the most part, but underneath is a significantly quicker truck with impressive driving range range. Ford claims that opting for the Extended Range battery pack will give you 300 miles of range and a towing capacity of 10,000 pounds. Depending on the weight of your load, the range will drop considerably under towing, so maybe don't go chasing waterfalls.

Read our review of the Lightning

Full-Size EV: 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV

2024 silverado ev rstpreproduction model shown actual production model will vary model year 2024 silverado ev available fall 2023

Base Price: $74,900 (WT) / $96,495 (RST)

The Chevrolet Silverado EV is GM's attempt to build a mainstream electric pickup. It's is available in two trim levels, the fleet-only WT and the nicely trimmed RST (pictured), with prices for a fully loaded model approaching $100,000. Powered by two electric motors and using GM’s Ultium battery technology, the lowest trim level of the Silverado EV will make do with 510 horsepower and 393 miles of range, and the Silverado EV 4WT offers a very respectable 450 miles of range and 10,000 pounds of max towing capacity. The midgate wall between the bed and the cab provides additional storage space.

Why the Silverado EV is the Future of GM

Heavy-Duty: 2024 Ford Super Duty

Base Price: $46,965

The Ford Super Duty is exactly what it says it is. Gas engine options include a standard 6.8-liter V-8 with 405 horsepower, or if that’s not enough, a 7.3-liter V-8 with 430 horsepower and 485 pound-feet of torque. The Popeye spinach-eating Power Stroke turbo-diesel 6.7-liter V-8 offers up to 500 pretty ponies and a whopping 1200 pound-feet of torque. It can tow up to 40,000 pounds of whatever you feel like depending on configuration, with a payload capacity of 8,000 pounds. With plenty of interior and exterior options and features that can take the cabin to luxury-car levels of plushness, this Clydesdale on wheels is a workhorse.

Super Duty is a workhorse refined

Heavy-Duty: 2024 Ram 2500 / 3500

2024 ram 3500 heavy duty limited crew cab dual rear wheel

Base Price: $47,245

The heavy-duty Ram 2500 and 3500 are some of the best heavy-duty trucks available on the market today. Available in single-cab and crew-cab configurations, the Ram also offers the next level of roomy rear seats, the Mega Cab. There’s no doubt that the well-padded and bolstered Ram HD trucks are the best for living large and luxurious. Standard acoustic glass and active noise cancellation help muffle the roar of the 6.4-liter V-8 or the 6.7-liter Cummins diesel engines in this hauling and towing machine. Depending on the trim level, the Ram HD can tow between 14,370 and 37,090 pounds and can really move mountains.

Ram also makes a heavy-duty off-road Rebel 2500

Christi worked for a decade in the toxicology field and then transitioned to the C/D testing team based on a serendipitous alignment of the cosmos. Growing up, she’d go to work with her father on non-school days at (the alleged) chop shop he ran in Detroit in the '80s and '90s. She was never allowed to pet the dogs that lived in the shop garage, but the smell of mechanic perfume and the feel of lava soap is pure childhood nostalgia. When not working, she enjoys spending time with her created family, cooking, gardening, and silently plotting revenge on her mortal enemies.

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Road Trips and Car Travel With Cats

Author: LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, FFCP

Published: April 17, 2024

Our mission is to help save dogs' and cats’ lives through our educational content. To support our efforts, this page may contain affiliate links . We earn a commission for qualifying purchases – at no cost to you.

young cream and gray cat sitting in a carrier in a car

During the summer months and around the holidays, many of us head out on road trips and consider taking our feline family members along.

Summer is also a peak time for relocating across town or across country.

The problem is that most cats don’t feel safe in the car. They may cry or yowl, hide in their carrier, and even soil due to fear. That means an unpleasant trip for them and you.

It is possible to help your cat feel more secure in the car. Some may even learn to love it. We’re going to walk you through the steps to desensitize your cat to being in the car.

We’ll also recommend travel items to bring in the car and for a hotel stay so that you both have a safe and comfortable trip.

Skip to section:

How to get your cat comfortable with car travel
How to use a litter box when you travel – and will your cat use it?
Where to stay when traveling with your cat and what to consider
Special travel considerations for sick cats
Be prepared for emergencies while traveling

Getting Your Cat Ready for a Road Trip

Step 1: get your kitty feeling comfortable in their carrier..

If they're going to ride in the car, like you, they’ll need to be safely “buckled up” to protect not just them but everyone in the car and on the road.

After all, unrestrained cats can be a distraction, interfering with your ability to steer or brake, and even become a dangerous projectile in the event of a crash or sudden stop.

What if your cat is wearing a harness and leash? If the car is moving, I still say keep them secure in a carrier. If you want to let them stretch their legs on the harness and leash while the car is stopped and windows are up, go for it. Just keep in mind that you’ve got to get them back in the carrier when you start moving again, and they may not love that.

It could be less stressful for everyone to stick with the carrier in the car and try the harness and leash INSIDE your hotel or destination. More on the dangers of letting your cat out of the car on their harness and leash later in the article.

So, your first step starts well before your trip. Spend some time training your cat to love their carrier – we have an article on that process – before the big travel day arrives.

Don't have a carrier for your cat yet? Check out our carrier recommendations, including carriers that are crash-test certified . If your cat is going to be spending a lot of long hours in the car, you may opt for a larger carrier than normal. We cover that, too. Just keep in mind you’ll want that carrier sooner rather than later, so you can use it during the pre-travel training.

woman holding a pet carrier in the back of a car

Step 2: Get your cat feeling comfortable in the car.

Now that your kitty feels better in their carrier, it’s time to help them feel comfortable in the car. Here are some steps to help you do that.

Pro Tip: Car acclimation is best done with two people … one to drive the car, the other to pet, praise, and treat kitty. It can be done with one person, too, but very carefully.

You’re going to do short sessions in the car – your cat dictates how long the sessions will be. The number of sessions depends on how quickly your cat gets comfortable. The main thing is that you don’t want to push your cat past their comfort zone. Your cat should always be calm.

You might be thinking that even if your cat is scared, leaving them in the car in spite of their fear will eventually show them they don’t have to be afraid. Nope! That’s not how cat brains work. Instead, think of it as starting at a really low intensity so your cat doesn’t have to be scared. As they’re ready, you slowly turn up the intensity.

If you turn it up too far and they get nervous, just end the session and lower the intensity for the next session.

Show them there’s no reason to be afraid because you’re not going to push them too far. And they’re getting good things through the entire process, so you’re actually turning a scary thing into a positive thing.

Take your cat out to the car in their carrier – covered on three sides with a towel or blanket for security.

With the car parked and not running and the doors and windows closed (weather permitting), sit in the back seat with your cat in their carrier. Partially open one of the carrier doors if you can do so without your cat trying to get out.

Then, make good things happen. Give treats (make sure it's a treat they love ), pets, praise, and show them this is a positive experience. Do this for just a few minutes (or longer if your cat is really enjoying it). Then, take them inside and end with treats and love. You’ll continue these sessions, gradually making them longer as your cat is comfortable, until your cat seems nice and calm, spending time in the car while in their carrier.

Next, you’ll turn up the intensity a bit by starting the car. Make sure the radio is off or very low (cats find classical music calming). And repeat the previous step.

Spend a few minutes in the back seat making good things happen for your cat while the car is running. If the engine really scares them, keep it short — just 1 minute with some treats. Again, you can gradually increase the length of time your cat is in the car, getting good things while the engine is on.

Caution: If your car is parked in your garage, either open your garage door or move your car out of the garage. Carbon monoxide is very dangerous for both of you!

Once your kitty is doing well with the car on, it’s time to turn the intensity up again. Time for a short drive.

Note: If they’re too nervous to eat treats, they’re probably not ready for this step. Back it up and spend more time on the previous steps.

It may just be pulling out of the driveway in the first couple of sessions. That’s just fine. You’ll work up to longer drives. And your cat will learn that being in the car doesn’t mean going to the vet. Never push these drives further than your cat is comfortable with. Also, be sure to drive calmly and go easy on the gas pedal and brakes.

Since each cat and each situation are different, it could take anywhere from a few sessions to several months for a cat to feel calm during car travel.

Car Travel Logistics With Cats

Will a cat use a litter box in a car.

Jumping right down to “business,” … depending on the duration of your travel adventures with kitty and where you’re winding up, you’re going to have to deal with litter box accommodations. This is the case both when you’re on the road and when you get to your hotel or destination.

Just because you give your cat access to a box doesn’t mean they’ll use it, especially if they’re nervous.

Cats don’t like to eliminate when they feel unsafe. They'll likely choose to do their business once you get to your destination. It’s nothing to worry about unless they go more than about 24 hours without peeing. At that point, call your vet and see what they suggest.

When I moved with my cats, and we had 8-hour days in the car, they held it all day and most of the night.

If they’re willing, you can help your cat take care of business on the road in a few different ways.

First, get them a good travel litter box. You’ll use the same litter they use at home, and (perhaps) even a litter attractant.

A good travel litter box will be large enough for your cat to fit in yet small enough to fit in their carrier. It will also be waterproof and sturdy. You can use a small plastic litter box or there are also disposable litter box options available.

We have travel litter box and large carrier recommendations here .

Set the travel box up in your home as an alternate option before your trip so your cat can get used to it. Don’t replace your regular boxes with the travel box, though. Have all options available.

If Your Carrier Can't Fit a Litter Box

Letting your cat out of a carrier to use a box placed in the car isn’t ideal. I actually rescued a kitten from the roadside once without a carrier. That kitten ended up inside my dashboard. So, if you think your cat can’t hide in dangerous places within the confines of your car, you’re wrong.

If your trip isn’t too long and their carrier isn’t large enough to fit a litter box, you can go with a larger litter box that they can use at the hotel or destination.

Note: If your cat uses the smaller travel litter box on the road, don’t consider replacing your larger boxes at home. Tiny boxes are not ideal and don’t fit your cat’s instinctual needs. They’re not a good long-term option. They’re the lesser of two evils when you’re traveling — the other evil being your cat peeing in the carrier.

Should You Let Your Cat Go Outside?

My vote is no unless you have a cat who is completely comfortable with travel, being in new places, and seeing and hearing strange people, pets, and sounds.

The first concern is that no harness is 100% escape-proof. If your cat gets scared, they can and will get out of that harness and take off.

Second, they’re going to be surrounded by newness — smells, sights, sounds, things you can’t control. Even if they don’t get scared, the idea that you’ll be able to get them to focus on peeing at that moment isn’t very likely. Cats don’t pee and poop on cue the way dogs can. It’s safer to keep them in the car.

What Do You Do With Your Cat When You Have to Go?

If the temperatures aren’t too hot or cold to leave your cat in the car, just leave them in their carrier and go about your business. Just make it quick!

Cover three sides of the carrier so they feel more secure and are less of a target for theft. Use a light cover (blanket) for warm days and a heavier cover for cooler days. Both should still allow for airflow.

It's usually safe between about 40–65 degrees F (4–18 degrees C), though every cat and every situation will be different, so use this as a rough guide.

Talk to your vet about more specific safe temperature ranges for your cat based their age, breed, and any chronic medical conditions they may have or medications they may be on. If the temperatures are outside of that range, you’re going to have to take some precautions when making your own pit stops that take you away from your car.

In some cases, it may be possible for you to bring your cat into the bathroom with you in their carrier.

Quick tips if you must leave your cat in the car

Some cars now have pet mode , like Telsa, Chevrolet Bolt, Rivian, and other Form and BMW models. Caution: If you decide to leave your engine running in a gas-powered car, be aware that car engines and air conditioner compressors can and do fail, leading to excessively hot temperatures building up in the car quickly. Similar malfunctions can happen in EV cars, too, and if the battery dies, the cooling system will shut off.
If leaving your car and running the A/C or heat isn’t possible or practical, pre-cool or pre-heat your car the best you can by running the system on high for several minutes before you get out. Then, be quick!
Move their carrier from the back seat to the back floor. Since hot air rises, it should be a bit cooler on the floor. There are fans made for keeping pets cool in the car , but we really can't overstate this: pets should never be left in a closed car, even in the shade or with cooling devices. In this case, it's simply for a quick amount of time.
Park in the most well-shaded spot you can find.
Park with your front windshield facing the sun and put up a reflective windshield sun shade like this one .
Cracking the windows doesn’t make a huge difference, but it also doesn’t hurt (so long as your cat is securely in their carrier and there’s no danger of someone reaching into your car and stealing them and your stuff).
Make sure you leave your cat plenty of water.
If it's cold outside, add a warm blanket or fleece to your cat's carrier for them to snuggle up. If it's sunny, move the carrier to a sunny spot in the car.
Be as quick with your stop as possible. If it’s a food break, get it to go from a drive-thru and eat it in your car.

Where to Stay When Traveling With Your Cat

Road trips and long-distance moves with cats will often require hotel stays. But not all hotels, motels, or rentals are pet-friendly. And just because they say they’re “pet” friendly doesn’t mean they’re “cat” friendly. So, plan ahead. Call to confirm they take cats and reserve the room or rental in advance.

Pro Tip: “Pet-friendly” means other pets likely stayed in that room recently! Not everyone uses flea and other parasite protection on their cats and dogs. Make sure your cat is protected before heading out on the road! Learn more about safe and effective parasite prevention for your cat , and talk to your veterinarian.

What to Do With Your Cat in the Hotel or Rental

Once you’re out of the car, you’re faced with a question. Do you let your cat out in the hotel or rental to explore, or do you keep them confined? There’s a lot that goes into the answer. Here are some things to consider:

Is your cat relaxed in new places? Being in their carrier in the car is different than being in a completely new room with smells and places to hide.

Does your cat chew, climb, or otherwise destroy things? I couldn’t let my cat into a new space without putting cord protectors on every cord, or they’d be chewed in a matter of minutes.

Are there hiding places you can’t get to or unsafe spaces your cat can reach? The last thing you want is your cat stuck in the vents of a hotel or squeezing through that tiny hole in the wall behind the fridge in your rental. It happens.

Is it clean? Not to get gross, but you may not want your cat rolling around on a motel floor or getting under the bed.

Is it safe from toxins? There could be rodent traps or pest poison in the room that could be dangerous for your cat.

Is there any chance they’re going to pee on something? Yep, it happened to me on my road trip. My cat was stressed and peed all over the fabric carrier, and it soaked through to the bed. Talk about embarrassing. And there's sometimes an additional cleaning fee for mishaps like this.

kitten sleeping at night in a travel pen with bowl and litter box

Confinement for Safety

I like the idea of bringing along a much larger, collapsible pet pen for overnight use. They’re plenty big enough for a good-sized litter box and everything your cat needs. There’s even room to play. Just make sure you get one with a top, or your cat will jump right out.

If you want to let your cat out on a harness and leash or heavily supervised, you have the option. But you’ve got the pet pen as a backup just in case you need it. You never know how a cat is going to react in a new space, especially when you’re sleeping or in the shower and they’re unsupervised. Here are a few great options:

Available at:

Travel Considerations for Cats With Chronic Health Issues

Before striking out on the road for a long trip or moving with a cat who has a chronic medical condition or is on long-term medications — like diabetes , hyperthyroidism , chronic kidney disease , or heart disease — there are a few precautions you should take.

Make sure your cat had a recent (ideally within the past month or so) exam with their vet. You’ll have more peace of mind knowing that their condition is as well managed as possible and that they’re as healthy as can be before hitting the road with them. Your vet will also have recommendations for making their trip as comfortable and safe as possible.
Bring a copy of your cat’s medical records with you! This should include recent exam notes, laboratory test results, and medication/supplement names and dosages. Your vet can often print these out (with enough notice), and they may even subscribe to an app or other service that allows you to keep updated copies of such records with you always on your phone. This will make visiting another vet on the road much easier.
Especially for cats with known chronic health concerns, it’s a good idea to know about a few vet hospitals along your route and in the area of your destination before you head out. See the vet locator tools listed in the next emergency section to start searching.
If your cat is on a special prescription diet, like for their kidneys, make sure to stock up on it from your vet before leaving. It’s not always easy to get prescription diet refills when you’re away from home. You should take enough with you to last for the duration of your trip PLUS an additional (at least) 2 weeks.
Similarly, be sure to stock up on your pet’s medications and supplements, as well as any supplies you need for them. This would include needles and a travel-sized sharps container (or larger needle container ) for safely disposing of and storing used needles for diabetic cats, pills for blood pressure, overactive thyroid, and any other chronic medications. Again, you should take with you enough to last for the duration of your trip PLUS an additional (at least) 2 weeks.
If your cat is diabetic and on insulin, don’t forget a cooler and ice packs to help keep it cool while in the car. You can also look into a cooler that plugs into your car’s cigarette lighter or USB, like these: Cooluli Mini , Wagan 14L , or the Wagan 24L (which could even store some of your food and drinks for the road). Pro Tip: Depending on the type of insulin your cat is on, you may be able to get an insulin “pen” that may be more stable outside of the fridge and easier to administer to your cat. It's still advisable to use a cooling case for the pens . Talk to your vet to see if an insulin pen is an option for your cat — it isn’t for all cats, but if it is for yours, it could be a great travel (and even long-term) solution for you.

Emergencies on the Road With Your Cat

It’s a good idea to plan ahead and map out a few 24-hour Emergency Clinics on your route, just in case. Try this vet emergency locator .

Have your hometown veterinary clinic number handy, too. For less serious issues, call them first. They may be able to give you advice or let you know if it’s a true emergency.

Make sure you have a card in your wallet or attached to your cat’s carrier with your cat’s name, the number where you can be reached during travel, and an emergency contact who is not traveling with you. If your cat has medical issues, you should list those as well or the contact info for your veterinary clinic. If there’s an accident, your car is stolen, or something happens where you’re separated from your cat, emergency services will have options.

I just got this great set for myself (featured below). The keychain says “pet home alone,” with instructions to look in your wallet for a card with emergency contact info. It’s meant to notify emergency services if you’re in an emergency situation and someone needs to care for your pet at home. In this case, you’d just include a note on the card that you’re traveling with your cat in the car.

It’s also vital to ensure your cat is microchipped and the contact information is up-to-date (including a way you can be reached on the road).

pet alert sticker and home alone keychain

First Aid on the Road

Consider putting together a pet first-aid kit for your car. Here's a shopping list of first-aid essentials . Look for the icon of a little car 🚗, as it's these products that are the most essential in a smaller, travel-sized first-aid kit.

We encourage you to leave a comment below if you’ve got any tricks, tips, or products you’ve used that made car travel with your cats easier. Best of luck on your travels or your move. Have fun and be safe!

About the author

LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, FFCP

LeeAnna Buis has adored cats her entire life and thought she knew them inside-out and sideways. But it wasn’t until she worked with a feline behavior consultant that she fully understood how incredible, complicated, and inspiring cats really are. Literally, that day, she made a career change knowing she wanted to give other cat parents the same experience of truly “seeing” and appreciating their cats. Now, she works virtually with cat parents all over the world through Feline Behavior Solutions and Preventive Vet.

LeeAnna earned her certification through Animal Behavior Institute, earning the CFTBS designation. She is a certified Fear Free® trainer (FFCP), a training professional member of the Pet Professional Guild (PPG), and a member of both the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) and Cat Writer’s Association (CWA).

More about LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, FFCP

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV, in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees.
Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic!

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
Cost: USD $15.00
Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
Cost: Free!
Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
Cost: USD $8.00
Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
Cost: Free to enter
Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
Cost: USD $5.00
Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for!

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture!

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
Cost: Free!
Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months. A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov. The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner!

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres.
Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics.

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 – USD $228.00 based on seat location.
Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
This museum is fun for both adults and children!
Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

Television and radio tower in Moscow
Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

Closed on Mondays
Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy!

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage and Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided! Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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