11 Interesting Car Camping Road Trips You Ought To Try

While flying is the fastest way to travel, there is something about the open road that calls to us. It might be the scenery. It may be an adventure. Whatever it is, millions of people love a good road trip, so we put together this list of eleven places to try.

You may have to fly and rent a car to access these roads but it is well worth it. Also, a great alternative would be to rent a motorhome. This way, you get to enjoy more freedom, space, and savings. This also means that you can bring more camping essentials, food, and other important articles that’d guarantee you an unforgettable camping road trip experience. You may check out motorhome hire in Auckland or your local area to know the rental options and emerging rates. Before we hit the fun spots in this article, here are some tips to be aware of before taking a road trip.

Keep Connected

We live in a world now where GPS systems have replaced the trusty road map and finding a phone when you are in trouble isn’t any trouble at all. Most of us have a phone permanently affixed to our hands.

But those phones run on batteries and a phone without a working battery is of no use to anyone. Have an external charger in case your car dies and the car charger isn’t available to you.

Get the Car Checked Out

The most important thing to do is have a professional check out your ride before heading out. If you are flying and renting this isn’t necessary but, if you are taking the family-truckster out for a trip it never hurts to make sure everything is in order. From the tires to the engine, this is the most important safety measure step of your trip.

Dustin Joseph of Horsepower online says about Subaru Outback tires, “worn tires can cause issues with both safety and gas mileage.” Even if it’s to save money on your gas during the trip this step is well worth it in the long run.

Now let’s get to the fun part! Here are eleven road trips all around the world we feel are well worth your time.

1 – The Alcan Highway -Canada to Alaska

This stretch of road that will take any traveler from Canada to Alaska, or the other way around. When taking a tour of the Alcan you will find mountains, lakes, and tons of beautiful and natural scenes. Some highlights include the Liard River Hot Springs and Muncho Lake in the Northern Rockies. Keep your eyes out for caribou and black bears.

2 – Guoliang Tunnel – China

Here we have a road trip for the adrenaline junky. This tunnel was hand-carved into the side of this mountain to replace the previously used trail known as the “heaven ladder.” This road is not for the faint of heart. It is 19 feet wide and 13 feet high. It is recommended to drive it with your headlights on and to continuously honk your horn.

3 – Hawke’s Bay – New Zealand

If you are looking for a trip that includes scenery and some first world fun then this is the one for you. It includes beaches, tons of nature, plus ample wine tours and places to eat. It will keep you close to major cities like Napier and Hastings while taking you through the Wairoa River floodplains and Ruahine Ranges.

4 – The Land of the Lakes – UK

Stretching 42 miles this drive will take you through some of the least viewed sections of Britain’s Lake District. When driving through you can expect to see the Stanley Force waterfall, the Hardknott Roman Fort, and the Dalegarth station, which is part of the miniature Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway.

5 – The Center Loop – Eastern Europe

Here we have a road trip for travelers who want a little city life with their natural scenery. This road will take you from Vienna to Ljubljana, Slovenia in a short time. From there you can head to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. Once you hit the other cities on this route, Budapest, Krákow, Wroclaw, and Prague you will find yourself back in Vienna.

Remember that the Baltic is also a part of Eastern Europe. So, a Baltic road trip would be a great idea, especially for those who come from hundreds or thousands of miles away. But, because prices of gas and food increase as you head north, ensure your tank is full before you enter Estoria.

In addition, you shouldn’t miss out on savoring the beautiful natural and man-made landmarks and taking selfies once you reach Bucharest.

6 – The Champagne Region – France

Classic rolling hills and stone villages will be what you see when driving through this celebrated European region. The best time to do it is in the Autumn but that will also be when it’s the most crowded. You can book tours once you get there and even take the train if you don’t want to drive. Many tourists take this side excursion when visiting Paris.

7 – Hokkaido – Japan

This main island of Japan is full of amazingly beautiful sites. When traveling its scenic byways you will discover volcanoes, caldera lakes that were created by eruptions, mountains peaked with snow, beaches, and geothermal springs. You could complete this trip in a short time since this island of Japan is a mere 32,221 square miles.

Wild camping or boondocking isn’t permitted, but overnight camping is allowed in France in designated areas. Just check and follow specific motorhome parking areas. Allowable car camping areas usually have clear signs nearby. If you’re unsure, check Google or ask any local (prepare by learning basic French terms). It’s best to ask permission from local authorities as well to avoid problems.

8 – Death Road – Bolivia

No road trip list is valid without one trek that’s more than a little risky. If that’s what you are into, then this is the road for you. It has long hairpin turns that don’t have guard rails but it will take you from a 10,000 feet height down into the rainforest before leading you to Coroico, a Bolivian town. It was once the most dangerous road in the world. 

9 – Great Ocean Road – Australia

For readers who are more into less risk and more luxury, this excursion will give it to you. There are mountains and the ocean, hence the name, and plenty of our favorite Australian wildlife like kangaroos and koalas. Make sure to check out Bells Beach if you enjoy surfing and the Otway Lighthouse, where you can see Australia’s Shipwreck Coast.

10 – Pacific Coast Highway – United States

Stretching out 1,650 miles, this byway is one of the most popular to take in the U.S. It will take you from California, up through Oregon until you reach Washington. The best part is it takes you along the coast for spectacular ocean views. There are redwood trees at Big Sur and even Hollywood. This trip has something for everyone.

11 – Hana Highway – Hawaii

Our final destination takes us to one of the most beautiful places on Earth. When you arrive in Hawaii you can’t escape the floral scent. This road trip, which starts in Paia, will take you through 59 bridges and more curves than you could count. You’ll find roadside waterfalls and incredible mountain ocean views that meet the sea.

Conclusion

What are you waiting for? Get that car checked out and start making your plans. These places make a fantastic bucket list for anyone that enjoys the open road and the wind in their hair. So get that pre-travel checklist ready and get out there!