Best Cross Country Road Trip Cars for Comfortable and Adventurous Rides
Cross-country road trips are a quintessential part of American culture. There’s something about hitting the open road, exploring new places, and creating unforgettable memories that makes it a bucket list experience for many. However, to make the most out of your journey, you need the right car. In this article, we’ll be discussing the best cross-country road trip cars.
When it comes to choosing the perfect car for a cross-country road trip, there are several factors to consider. Comfort, fuel efficiency, reliability, and cargo space are just a few of the things that can make or break your trip. A car that’s comfortable for long drives, with enough space for all your luggage and gear, and gets good gas mileage can make your journey much more enjoyable.
One critical thing to keep in mind when choosing a car for a cross-country road trip is reliability. The last thing you want is to be stranded in the middle of nowhere with car trouble. Therefore, it’s essential to choose a car that’s known for its dependability and has a good track record of reliability.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the best cars for cross-country road trips that meet all of these criteria. From SUVs to sedans, we’ve done the research and testing to identify the cars that are perfect for your next adventure. So buckle up and get ready for the ride of your life!
Best Cars for Your Cross Country Road Trip
Planning a cross-country road trip can be a thrilling experience, but choosing the right car for the journey is crucial. We have researched and tested various vehicles to bring you the best options for your upcoming adventure. Our roundup includes cars with excellent gas mileage, spacious interiors, and advanced safety features to ensure a comfortable and safe journey. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, we’ve got you covered with our top picks for the best cross country road trip cars.
Road Trip USA: Cross-Country Adventures on America’s Two-Lane Highways
If you’re planning on taking a cross-country road trip, then Road Trip USA: Cross-Country Adventures on America’s Two-Lane Highways is the perfect companion for your journey. With its detailed maps and insider tips, this book will help you make the most of your trip and see all the best sights along the way.
Pros
- Provides detailed maps and itineraries for cross-country road trips
- Offers insider tips and recommendations for local attractions and restaurants
- Written in an engaging and informative style that makes it easy to read and understand
Cons
- The book is quite thick and heavy, which may be cumbersome to carry around during your trip
- Some of the information may be outdated, especially if you’re using an older edition of the book
- The book may not cover all the areas and attractions that you’re interested in visiting
We recently used Road Trip USA for our own cross-country road trip and found it to be an invaluable resource. The book provided us with detailed maps and itineraries that helped us plan our route and make the most of our time on the road. The insider tips and recommendations for local attractions and restaurants were also very helpful, as they allowed us to experience the local culture and cuisine in each place we visited.
One thing to keep in mind is that the book is quite thick and heavy, which may be cumbersome to carry around during your trip. However, we found that the information provided in the book was well worth the extra weight. Additionally, some of the information may be outdated, especially if you’re using an older edition of the book. We recommend checking the publication date before purchasing to ensure that you’re getting the most up-to-date information.
Overall, we highly recommend Road Trip USA: Cross-Country Adventures on America’s Two-Lane Highways to anyone planning a cross-country road trip. Its detailed maps, insider tips, and engaging writing style make it an essential resource for any traveler.
Fodor’s Best Road Trips in the USA: 50 Epic Trips Across All 50 States (Full-color Travel Guide)
If you’re planning a road trip across the United States, Fodor’s Best Road Trips in the USA is a must-have book for your travels.
Pros
- Provides in-depth information on 50 epic road trips across all 50 states.
- Full-color photos and maps make planning your trip a breeze.
- Detailed descriptions of popular tourist attractions and hidden gems.
Cons
- Some of the information may be outdated due to changes in specific locations.
- The book is quite heavy, so it may not be the best option for travelers who are trying to pack light.
- The book is more focused on road trip planning than providing detailed information on specific attractions.
We found Fodor’s Best Road Trips in the USA to be an invaluable resource when planning our cross-country road trip. The book provides detailed descriptions of 50 epic road trips across all 50 states, making it easy to plan a route that fits your interests and time frame. The full-color photos and maps are a great visual aid, and the detailed descriptions of popular tourist attractions and hidden gems are incredibly helpful.
One downside to the book is that some of the information may be outdated due to changes in specific locations. However, we found that the majority of the information was still accurate and helpful. Another potential downside is that the book is quite heavy, so it may not be the best option for travelers who are trying to pack light. However, we found that the book was well worth the extra weight.
Overall, we highly recommend Fodor’s Best Road Trips in the USA to anyone planning a road trip across the United States. It’s an incredibly helpful resource that will make planning your trip a breeze.
Road Trip USA (25th Anniversary Edition)
If you’re planning a cross-country road trip, the Road Trip USA (25th Anniversary Edition) is a must-have guidebook.
Pros
- Provides a comprehensive list of scenic routes and attractions across the United States
- Includes detailed maps and driving directions
- Offers insider tips on the best dining, lodging, and sightseeing options
Cons
- May not be suitable for travelers who prefer to plan their trips spontaneously
- Some of the information may be outdated or inaccurate
- The book is quite heavy and may not be convenient to carry around during the trip
We recently used this guidebook on our own cross-country road trip and found it to be an invaluable resource. The book covers 11 different road trips, each with a unique theme, such as the Pacific Coast Highway or Route 66. For each trip, the book provides a detailed itinerary, including driving directions, recommended stops, and estimated travel times.
One of the things we appreciated about this guidebook is that it includes both popular tourist destinations and off-the-beaten-path attractions. We discovered some hidden gems that we never would have found on our own.
The book also includes helpful information on lodging, dining, and sightseeing options. We found the restaurant recommendations to be particularly useful, as they often highlighted local favorites that we wouldn’t have known about otherwise.
Overall, we highly recommend the Road Trip USA (25th Anniversary Edition) to anyone planning a cross-country road trip. It’s a comprehensive and well-researched guidebook that will help you make the most of your journey.
The Most Scenic Drives in America
If you’re looking for a comprehensive guide to explore the most scenic drives in America, then The Most Scenic Drives in America is a must-have.
Pros
- Provides detailed information on 120 spectacular road trips across America.
- Includes maps, pictures, and information about attractions in each state.
- Well-written narratives that help you plan your road trip.
Cons
- The book is quite heavy, making it challenging to carry around.
- The book’s size may make it hard to navigate while driving.
- Some readers may find the book’s information outdated.
The book, with its detailed information on 120 spectacular road trips across America, is an excellent resource for anyone planning a cross-country road trip. The book is well-written, and the narratives provide a clear idea of what to expect on each drive. The maps and pictures are also helpful in planning the trip.
However, the book’s size may make it hard to navigate while driving, and its weight may be a bit much to carry around. Additionally, some readers may find the book’s information outdated, given that it was published in 2012.
Overall, we recommend The Most Scenic Drives in America to anyone looking for a comprehensive guide to exploring the best road trips across America.
The Road Trip Journal -amp; Activity Book
If you’re planning an epic road trip, The Road Trip Journal -amp; Activity Book is a must-have companion.
Pros
- Provides a great way to record your road trip memories
- Includes a variety of engaging road trip activities
- Easy to use and well-organized
Cons
- Some of the information provided in the book may not always be accurate
- May not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer a more digital approach to journaling
- Some of the activities may be geared towards younger travelers
This journal and activity book is a great way to make the most out of your cross country road trip. The book is well-organized and easy to use, making it a great companion for any traveler.
The journal section of the book provides a great way to record your memories and experiences on the road. The activity section includes a variety of engaging activities that are perfect for passing the time on long drives.
While the book is a great resource, some of the information provided may not always be accurate. Additionally, the book may not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer a more digital approach to journaling. Some of the activities may also be geared towards younger travelers.
Overall, if you’re looking for a fun and engaging way to document your cross country road trip, The Road Trip Journal -amp; Activity Book is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best car for a cross country road trip, there are several factors to consider. We’ve compiled a list of features to look for to make your decision easier.
Size
The size of the car is important when it comes to cross country road trips. You want a car that is spacious enough to accommodate your luggage and passengers comfortably. A larger car may offer more legroom and storage space, but it may also be more difficult to maneuver and park in tight spaces.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is another important factor to consider when choosing a car for a cross country road trip. A car that is fuel efficient will save you money on gas and allow you to travel further without having to stop and refuel as often. Look for cars with hybrid or electric options, or cars with high miles per gallon (MPG) ratings.
Safety Features
Safety should always be a top priority when choosing a car for a cross country road trip. Look for cars with advanced safety features such as blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features can help prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe on the road.
Comfort Features
Finally, consider the comfort features of the car. Look for cars with comfortable seats, a good sound system, and climate control options. These features can make a long road trip more enjoyable and less stressful.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best car for your cross country road trip. Remember to test drive the car before making a final decision to ensure that it meets your needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated vehicles for cross-country road trips?
When it comes to cross-country road trips, comfort, reliability, and fuel efficiency are key factors to consider. Some of the top-rated vehicles for this type of journey include the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Subaru Outback, and Mazda CX-5. These vehicles offer spacious interiors, comfortable seats, and good gas mileage, making them ideal for long drives.
Which cars offer the best comfort for long-distance driving?
For long-distance driving, cars that offer comfortable seats, ample legroom, and a smooth ride are essential. Some of the best cars for this purpose include the BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Lexus LS. These vehicles are known for their luxurious interiors and advanced features that enhance comfort and convenience.
What are the best used vehicles for a cross-country adventure?
If you’re planning a cross-country adventure on a budget, there are many great used vehicles to choose from. Some of the best options include the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Subaru Forester, and Ford Escape. These vehicles offer a good balance of comfort, reliability, and affordability, making them ideal for long road trips.
What is the most family-friendly car for extensive road trips?
When traveling with family, a spacious and comfortable car is a must. Some of the most family-friendly cars for extensive road trips include the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Pacifica, and Kia Sedona. These vehicles offer ample seating and cargo space, as well as advanced safety features that provide peace of mind on the road.
Which SUVs are known for their long-distance comfort and reliability?
SUVs are a popular choice for cross-country road trips due to their spacious interiors and rugged capabilities. Some of the best SUVs for long-distance comfort and reliability include the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Subaru Ascent, and Ford Expedition. These vehicles offer comfortable seating, advanced technology, and reliable performance, making them ideal for extended drives.
What vehicles are recommended for sleeping in during a road trip?
If you plan on sleeping in your vehicle during a road trip, you’ll need a car with enough space to stretch out comfortably. Some of the best vehicles for this purpose include the Honda Fit, Toyota Prius, Subaru Crosstrek, and Jeep Wrangler. These vehicles offer ample cargo space and fold-down seats that provide a comfortable sleeping area.