road trip with camper trailer

23 Incredible RV Vacations: Scenic RV Road Trips You Need to Take

Posted on Published: July 7, 2023  - Last updated: February 26, 2024

If you’re seeking the perfect blend of adventure and comfort, an RV road trip may be the perfect getaway! From awe-inspiring national parks to quaint coastal towns and everything in between, the USA offers an incredible array of destinations to explore from the comfort of your home on wheels. Here are the best RV vacations in the USA!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Start packing up the RV (and the family) now! You’re going to love these RV trips all across the country. Whether you’re looking for a route that’s in your home state, or you’re traveling and then renting an RV, this list has something for everyone!

This list goes beyond somewhere to sit your RV – each destination in this guide is an RV road trip with beautiful landscapes, fun national parks to explore, vibrant cities or wide open spaces.

👉Don’t have time to read the whole article? Get the complete Organize Your RV Like a Pro Guide for brilliant organization RV hacks before you go!

Many of these RV routes are best one in the summer months when the weather is (typically) most predictable and reasonable in the USA. But each of these RV vacations below share the best time of year for that particular adventure.

Whether this is your first RV road trip or you’ve been packing up your motorhome or travel trailer for years, these epic destinations are going to blow you away!

Must-see video: RV vacations

RV road trips map

This list covers the best RV trips in the west, east and a bunch of amazing routes in between.  Each pin on this map marks a stop on one of the very best RV routes in the US .

Because I haven’t’ been everywhere in the US in my RV (yet), I’ve asked some of my fellow travel writers to help compile this list of the best RV travel USA ideas! Enjoy!

Epic RV vacations

Get ready to hit the open road and discover some truly unbelievable RV road trips that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Let’s dive in!

1. Great Smoky Mountains: Asheville to Gatlinburg

• Distance: 85 miles
• Recommended time: 2-3 days
• Best time of year: Spring or Fall

If you’re looking for a fun getaway in your RV, then look no further than the mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee! One of the best RV vacations in the US, the drive from Asheville North Carolina to Gatlinburg, Tennessee is simply gorgeous.

The Smoky Mountains are stunning year-round, though it’s best to avoid this road trip in winter. The National Park Service often closes the road through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee.

This route can technically be done in an afternoon, but you’ll want to spend a day or two on either side of the road trip, at minimum!

While in Asheville, be sure to visit the botanical gardens and the River Arts District. And of course, one of the best attractions in town is the Biltmore Estate . Visit the estate to see the massive 175,000+ square feet of space on 8,000 acres. It’s spectacular!

The drive west towards Tennessee is beautiful, and the Smoky Mountains make their presence known with the hazy-looking views. Stay on Highway 19 until you get to Cherokee, North Carolina. It’s a great spot to grab lunch, a souvenir and check out the cornmeal and grits mill – Saunooke’s Mill .

Next, get ready for an incredibly scenic drive through US Highway 441 (AKA Newfound Gap Road) in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This scenic road is RV-friendly, although it does have some steep grades so be prepared as you drive through the mountains.

You’ll want to stop at Clingmans Dome for 360-degree views of the Smokies. It requires a 0.5 mile (paved) hike with a steep incline, but is well worth it.

Pro tip: don’t miss the turn to Clingman’s Dome! There’s RV-friendly parking at the parking lot, but turning around on 441 will be difficult in an RV if you miss the turn.

Gap Overlook and Ben Morton Overlook are other stops worth the view, if the parking situation isn’t too full when you’re driving through. Of course, there’s various hiking trails along the scenic route as well.

Gatlinburg is the official end of this RV road trip. It’s quite the touristy town, and parking is not RV-friendly at all. Instead, you can stay at Elkmont Campground inside the national park or Greenbrier Campground just outside of Gatlinburg. As with most national park campgrounds, be sure to book it well in advance to reserve your spot.

If you have a day or two to explore the park, you’ll want to check out the fabulous waterfalls, which are most impressive in the springtime. Laurel Falls Trail , Grotto Falls and Abrams Falls Trail are really popular hikes, although if you have a vehicle you’re towing it’s easier to access Grotto Falls and Abrams Falls as they’re located on narrow roads.

This is one of the best RV vacations that’s great for beginner RVers or those based in the Eastern USA and looking for a quicker weekend adventure.

Recommended by me – Nikki of Inspired Routes

2. Alaska RV road trip

• Distance: 1,200 miles
• Recommended time: 10 days
• Best time of year : June, July and August

Alaska is a fantastic state for a scenic and remote RV vacation. An RV road trip through the rugged 49th state allows you to see mountains, glaciers, forests, panoramic coastline, wildflowers, and plentiful wildlife.

Although driving your RV to Alaska is possible, another popular option is to fly into Anchorage and rent an RV. Either way, you should book your campsites as early as possible . Summer is the busy season in Alaska and the good campsites are often booked out months in advance.

The best  10-day Alaska road trip itinerary  will take you to see the diverse beauty of the inland mountains as well as the coastline. But, make sure to plan for at least 10 days to complete this 1,200-mile RV road trip. Alaska is a huge state and you will need to do a lot of driving to see the highlights.

Starting in the city of Anchorage, head north to Denali National Park for a few nights. After Denali, return south to Anchorage for a night and then keep going south to Seward. 

After spending several nights in Seward, drive to the Kenai River Region for a night or two, and then to Homer for your last few nights.  You’ll end your trip by returning north back to Anchorage.

Highlights of the route include Denali National Park and Kenai Fjords National Park, as well as some epic scenic overlooks and state parks along the way.

Two of the best campsites in Alaska for RV camping are Denali Grizzly Bear Resort near Denali National Park and Miller’s Landing in Seward. 

An RV road trip through Alaska will be an incredible and memorable experience!

Recommended by Diane of Travels with Eli

3. Milwaukee to Ludington (an underrated RV vacation idea in the USA)

• Distance: 148 miles by car ferry or 341 miles driving
• Recommended time: 3-4 days
• Best time of year: Mid-May to October, and this small beach town offers amazing outdoor activities. Hence, you want to visit during sunny spring and summer weather to truly enjoy this natural landscape.

Traveling from Wisconsin to Michigan is a unique road trip with an RV, as you can take the S.S. Badger Car Ferry (even for RVs) and enjoy the ride! 

While onboard, you can shop, watch a movie in the movie theater or simply lounge inside. They also have an outside deck with live music, where you can stroll along the deck, play a board game, or even test your luck at the famous Badger Bingo. Kids will enjoy the toddler play area or the kid’s port play area.

If you do not want to take the ferry, you can also easily drive to Ludington. The drive time varies based on traffic, but it is about 4 hours from Chicago, 4 hours from Detroit, and 5.5 hours from Milwaukee.

There are plenty of  things to do in Ludington , including exploring the natural beauty of the region at Ludington State Park. It’s an outdoor enthusiasts paradise with natural beauty from lakes and rivers, forests, and unique sand dunes.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, camping, and even bird-watching in Ludington State Park. Located on Hamlin Lake, RVers will enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking and paddle boarding.

Lastly, don’t forget to climb and explore the unique Hamlin Lake Sand dunes that give you a scenic view of Lake Michigan, Hamlin Lake, and Big Sable Point Lighthouse.

This is one of the best and most unique RV road trips in the US, and one worth adding to your must-do list!

Recommended by Hannah of Getting Stamped

4. Phoenix, Sedona, Grand Canyon and Page Arizona (one of the most scenic RV road trips)

• Distance: 478 miles (one way)
• Recommended time: 5-6 Days

There are so many amazing places to visit within driving distance from Phoenix. On this RV road trip, you will visit 3 of the most iconic destinations in Arizona , Sedona, the Grand Canyon and Page, Arizona.

Start in Phoenix and make your way to Sedona, one of the prettiest places in the world. There are a ton of places in Sedona to see incredible views or go on a  Sedona sunrise hike  to see the gorgeous red rocks illuminated in bright orange and red colors.

One of the best campgrounds to stay at in Sedona is Pine Flat Campground located on the scenic byway 89a. You’ll combine scenic accommodations with tone of the most gorgeous RV vacations in the USA!

After spending 1-2 days exploring Sedona, it’s time to head to the Grand Canyon, which is only 110 miles north. The Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic national parks in the United States, and it’s easy to see why.

Rent some electric bikes and bike along the rim to Hermits Rest and enjoy stopping off and seeing all the incredible views of the canyon.

The best place to stay near the Grand Canyon is at Mather Campground located inside the park. Advanced reservations are required to get a spot at this campground as it’s super popular.

After spending a day exploring the Grand Canyon, head 132 miles north to Page, Arizona. Once in Page, make a reservation to visit the incredible Antelope Canyon which is one of the prettiest slot canyons in the world.

You can also do the 1.5 mile round trip hike to Horseshoe Bend.

The best campground to stay at in Page is The Canyons , which is located only 10 minutes to Antelope Canyon and 10 minutes to Horseshoe Bend.

As one of the best RV vacation ideas, consider taking this road trip in either the spring or fall as the summer in Arizona can get really hot and be super crowded. 

Recommended by Jessica of Unearth the Voyage

5. San Francisco to Lake Tahoe

• Distance: 200 miles
• Recommended time: 3+ days
• Best time of year: summer or early fall

Hands down, one of the best RV vacations is a road trip from San Francisco to Lake Tahoe. With so much to do at the starting point, stopping point and in between, you could easily spend a week or more exploring this route. You’ll want a minimum of 3 days to see the highlights!

Starting in San Francisco, this is a great road trip for those based in northern California or southern Oregon. While driving an RV in San Francisco isn’t the most fun thing in the world, I can say it’s pretty spectacular driving across the Golden Gate Bridge in a motorhome (or travel trailer) !

You can spend a day (or more) exploring the sights in San Francisco; visit Lombard Street, Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz Island, Exploratorium and more. If you’re towing a vehicle, I’d recommend to leave your RV at your campsite and get a ride share around San Francisco.

From there, make your way northeast to Sacramento . Make a quick gas or food stop, or spend a day or more in the fun city. Highlights include the Capitol Building, Old Sacramento Waterfront, the Old Sugar Mill or do a wine tour.

Next, Lake Tahoe is big! So deciding whether to see (and camp) on the north or south side is important, as you’ll take 2 different routes out of Sacramento. Both areas are wonderful for RV travel, and each has unique experiences.

In north Lake Tahoe, see the incredible views of the lake at Sand Harbor State Park, go swimming, mountain biking or hiking. Furthermore, this dog-friendly destination is great for summertime swimming for your furry friends, too.

In South Lake Tahoe, a must-do is a sightseeing cruise of Emerald Bay. Of course there’s more hiking, paddleboarding and kayaking opportunities, not to mention Van Sickle Bi-State Park.

For camping in North Tahoe, try the Tahoe State Recreation Area or the Alpine Meadow Campground. In South Tahoe, consider the Campground by the Lake or Fallen Leaf Campground . As with most other RV vacations on this list, be sure to book your campground far in advance to ensure a spot.

While Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination, the winter driving in an RV (not to mention freezing temperatures) can create challenges. Summer is the best time for this road trip!

6. Santa Fe to White Sands National Park (one of the most underrated RV trips on this list)

• Distance: 397 miles
• Recommended time: 1 week
• Best time of year: late spring

Travel through the heart of New Mexico on an unforgettable Santa Fe to White Sands RV road trip. It’s a perfect route for RVs as the roads are largely flat with incredible views . Even in the areas where the roads turn hilly, it’s nothing that the average rig can’t handle!

Start your adventures in historic Santa Fe, the nation’s oldest capital city. Explore the Plaza and the oldest church in America before settling into your RV spot at the welcoming Santa Fe KOA.

Next, head over to Albuquerque, where you can tour the Old Town, hike in nearby Petroglyph National Monument, or experience the awe-inspiring Albuquerque Balloon Festival. 

Head south to the quirky Roswell, New Mexico, to uncover what happened in this town in 1947. Even if you don’t believe in alien encounters, the town’s extraterrestrial theming is out of this world.

Finally, complete the last leg of your New Mexico RV road trip by heading over the Sacramento Mountains into Alamogordo.

Camp at the Alamogordo/White Sands KOA, which offers free coffee in the morning, pedal bike rentals, a pool, a big game room, and a playground. You can also rent saucers for your White Sands National Park sledding from the front desk.

In Alamogordo, you can take a photo with the world’s largest pistachio at McGinn’s Pistachioland –don’t miss out on their homemade pistachio ice cream!

The New Mexico Museum of Space History is also an excellent way to spend several hours in Alamogordo. You can even visit the grave of the Ham, the famed monkey who flew to space and back in 1961.

The real gem in Alamogordo is White Sands National Park, which is about 15 minutes west of Alamogordo. Plan to spend at least  one day in White Sands  in order to get the most of the sledding, Dunes Drive, Junior Ranger program and more.

Recommended by Natalie of Camping Kiddos

7. Las Vegas to Zion plus the Grand Canyon

• Distance: 425 miles
• Recommended time: 5-10 days

Ready to go on one of the most scenic RV road trips in the USA?  Start your adventure by flying (or driving) into Las Vegas and picking up your RV.

After your RV is ready to go, set out from Las Vegas making your way to Springdale, Utah – the gateway to Zion National Park.

Springdale is the closest town to Zion with plenty of restaurants and RV parks. Watchman Campground, with both campsites and RV hookups, is one of the best places to stay in the area.

Along the way to Zion, there are several different stops along I15 for more sightseeing and breaks from the road, including Valley of Fire State Park and Red Rock Canyon.

Zion is one of the most scenic national parks, home to the red cliffs of Zion Canyon, forested trails, waterfalls, and the Emerald Pools. There are lots of hiking trails, including the famous Angel’s Landing.

Next, hit the road towards Grand Canyon National Park. You can stop at Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, or the town of Page along the way.

After exploring the Grand Canyon, start making your way back to Vegas. Along the way, visit the Route 66 Museum in Kingman, visit the “living ghost town” of Chloride, or make a pitstop at the Hoover Dam before arriving back in Las Vegas.

Once your road trip is over, spend a few days in Las Vegas unwinding at the pool and exploring one of the USA’s most fun cities.

Recommended by Sydney of A World in Reach

Best RV trips in the west

The west coast of the USA is full of dramatic landscapes, curvy roads and scenic views that honestly just seem impossible. Some of my favorite RV trips have been along the west coast.

Let’s keep this list going…

8. Sequoia National Park to Monterey via Big Sur (a personal favorite on this RV vacations list!)

• Distance: 300+ miles
• Recommended time: 3-5 days
• Best time of year: Spring, summer or fall

If you’re looking for the best RV vacations, then this incredibly scenic drive is it! You’ll see the giant Sequoia trees, California’s stunning coastline through Big Sur and the charming town of Monterey.

You’ll want to spend 1-2 days visiting Sequoia National Park , where you can see the General Sherman Tree – the world’s largest tree by volume! Fun hikes like Congress Trail and Moro Rock will help you fall in love with this fun park.

Note: some roads in the park are quite narrow and depending on the size of your RV, you’ll need – or maybe want – to take the park shuttle .

At Sequoia, there’s the Dorst Creek Campground, perfect for RVs inside the park. Alternatively, the Sequoia Resort and RV Park is near the park entrance.

From Sequoia National Park, you’ll actually head southwest, even though Monterey is slightly north.

Drive through Visalia (a great spot to grab gas) and continue southwest to the s mall town of Cambria, California. Stretch your legs on the boardwalk trail along the beach or shop and dine in the charming downtown.

North of Cambria, you’ll take the incredibly scenic California Highway 1, or the Pacific Coast Highway. While there are too many things to do in Big Sur to mention here, a few RV-friendly highlights include the Sand Dollar Beach, McWay Falls and the Bixby Creek Bridge.

If you’re looking to stay in Big Sur and enjoy a few days exploring the area, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is a great spot for RV camping in the heart of Big Sur.

Ending your trip in Monterey, you’ll want to check out the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, Old Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row . It’s such a fun city, I’d recommend spending 1-2 days exploring the sights.

9. Glacier to Yellowstone National Park

• Distance: 420 miles
• Recommended time: 7.5-hour drive
• Best time of year: Summer and Fall

There’s just something about the American West that is freeing and magical. It feels like home when you’re out on the open road without a care in the world. 

This is what you get as you road trip between Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park. But, thankfully, there’s much more to do in this road trip than just gazing out at the vast landscapes. It’s one of the best RV road trips in the west!

You can start your trip in either direction, but for this one, we’ll begin in Glacier and head south to Yellowstone .

At Glacier, you’ll be home to arguably the best views of any National Park in America. With towering peaks cut by glaciers, turquoise waters with glacier silt, and wildlife galore, it’s a mesmerizing experience. 

Do note that you need reservations to enter most of Glacier’s top spots, such as Many Glacier or Going to the Sun Road, or be willing to wake up before 6 am to beat the crowds. 

I suggest spending at least five days in Glacier to see both sides. Your best places to visit are Grinnell Glacier, Iceberg, Hidden and Two Medicine Lakes. 

If you’re curious how long you should allocate for each destination, I’d recommend spending 67% of your time in Glacier – it’s that good!

As for the specific driving portion of it, there’s little to see between the two famous national parks. I suggest cruising through the heartland and getting to Yellowstone quickly. 

Once in Yellowstone, make sure to hit the classics: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, Morning Glory, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. You can see a lot of the park in just two days, allowing you to keep this  epic road trip  to a reasonable length. 

Recommended by Alec of Explore with Alec

10. Joshua Tree and Death Valley National Park (one of the most interesting RV routes in the US)

Distance: 577 miles (if starting and ending in Los Angeles) Recommended time: 5 Days Best time of year: Fall to Spring

A  Joshua Tree and Death Valley road trip  is the ultimate Southern California experience! Los Angeles makes for an easy starting point, but you can also choose to start in Las Vegas . This whole RV road trip is around 600 miles and you will want to plan a minimum of 5 days.

Spend at least one full day in Joshua Tree, visiting all of the best hikes including the Cholla Cactus Garden, Arch Rock, Barker Dam and Hidden Valley. Joshua Tree is also an amazing spot to stargaze if the weather is clear.

Staying in the park will allow you to make the most of your trip, so reserve your campground in advance!

After having your fill of Joshua Tree, drive up to Death Valley National Park to continue on with one of the best RV vacations.

There are a few reservable campsites in Death Valley, but if you do not get one, there is also a large first-come, first-served campground near Furnace Creek .

In Death Valley, you do not want to miss spots like the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Zabriskie Point, and Gold Canyon.

Make sure to stop at the lowest point in North America- Badwater Basin Salt Flats!

Keep in mind some side roads are restricted to vehicles under 25 feet long like Artist Palette Drive, but the majority of the popular spots are accessible.

Plan this trip when it is not too hot out, as Death Valley has the hottest recorded temperature on Earth! Fall and Spring are the best time to visit.

The desert temperatures can drop at night and it can get very windy, so this makes a perfect RV road trip, as you can shelter from the elements.

Recommended by Val of Voyages with Val

11. Ashland to Crater Lake National Park

• Distance: 92 miles
• Recommended time: 1-2 days
• Best time of year : July – September (These are often the only months the roads are not closed due to snow!)

Oregon is a state full of beautiful scenery, and makes for one of the best RV trips west coast. Perhaps one of the most beautiful spots is Crater Lake.

This natural lake is the deepest in the United States and one of the most pure. From the blue water to the fresh, clean air, an RV vacation from Ashland to Crater Lake National Park will not disappoint.

Visitors can explore the rim of the lake on a variety of hiking trails. Boats even take visitors to Wizard Island to get a unique view of the stunning scenery. 

The RV road trip from Ashland to Crater Lake is beautiful in its own right. Highway 62 often travels along the Rogue River. You’ll pass through little towns with charming names like Shady Cove and Prospect. 

As you get closer to the lake, watch for bald eagles flying overhead or nesting on top of trees. But the highlight of the day will be cresting the final ridge and getting your first glimpse of the lake . It’s truly breathtaking.

There is one campground nearby that allows RVs. Mazuma Campground is seven miles from the Rim Village Visitor Center .

It’s a beautifully maintained campground and very popular. Be sure to make reservations in advance to secure your spot.

The road trip from Ashland to Crater Lake is short enough for a day trip, but one day may not be long enough to get your fill of the astounding beauty.

Recommended by Sherry of  Digital Nomad and a Dog

12. Highway 395, California (another stunning route on the RV vacations list)

• Distance : 201 miles
• Recommended time: 7 days
• Best time of year: Spring or fall

The entire length of Highway 395 is gorgeous, but its southern portion, from Bridgeport, California to Death Valley National Park is next-level epic . It’ll surely be one of your most memorable RV trips on the West Coast (maybe even the whole USA!)

You can even drive along this route as part of a longer trip, such as from Yosemite National Park, whose Tioga Pass entrance is right by Bridgeport (note that this is only accessible from mid-summer through mid-fall).

You’ll drive along the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains the entire time —not only is the scenery breathtaking, but the drive is an RVer’s paradise, with tons of campgrounds and dispersed camping along the way.

Start in the charming town of Bridgeport, where you’ll find the under-the-radar  Buckeye Hot Springs  and Travertine Hot Springs. As an added bonus, there’s lots of dispersed camping spots right by Buckeye in Stanislaus National Forest!

Continue on to Mono Lake , one of the oldest in the United States at over one million years old. The lake is famous for its tufas, unique spires that are a byproduct of calcium carbonate. 

The ski town of Mammoth Lakes is your next stop on one of the best RV road trips in the US. If you visit in the spring, there’s a good chance you’ll still be able to enjoy the fresh powder on Mammoth Mountain , one of the best ski resorts in the country. This area is actually one of the best snowy winter vacations in USA !

During the spring, there’s plenty of natural hot springs to enjoy in Mammoth Lakes as well. 

Next up is Alabama Hills , which looks like something from another planet, with enormous monzogranite boulders scattered across the desert floor and the towering peaks of the Sierras in the background.

Score a spot at the Tuttle Creek Campground to have this scenery as your backyard for a night.

Finally, Death Valley National Park will be the endpoint of your visit. This park is one of the most dynamic in the national park system, offering colorful badlands, sand dunes, salt flats and towering mountains.

If you’re interested in doing more than quickly driving through the park, plan your road trip in either early spring or late fall—it’s famously sweltering in the summer months!

This is easily one of the best RV vacations for those based in or near California.

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

13. Los Angeles to San Diego

• Distance: 120 miles
• Recommended time: 3 days
• Best time of year : Late spring or early fall

A RV road trip from Los Angeles to San Diego is magical. The 110 mile-drive is filled with scenic sights, beaches, and parks.

If driving straight through, expect it to take right around 2 hours, but I highly recommend at least 3 days to ensure you have time to see everything.

The most popular route (and the most scenic of them all) is the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). It is also known as Highway 1. It offers the stunning views of the California coastline.

While driving, make sure to take the exit 62 to Las Pulgas Road because it offers an oceanic panoramic view that can take your breath away.

After continuing down Highway 1 on one of the best RV trips west coast, you will pass by Huntington Beach and Laguna Beach . They are some of the most popular beach towns in California. If you have time, they would be a good place to stop for brunch, swimming, or just to soak up the sun.

It’s no secret that California is home to some busy roads! The best time of the day to start this road trip is before morning rush hour to avoid the congestion. If you do not make stops along the way, you could even make it all the way to San Diego without any traffic issues!

Finally, after arriving in San Diego you can check out the exciting theme parks such as Seaworld, Disneyland, or Legoland. There’s so many things to do in San Diego with kids , it makes for a great family RV vacation for the whole family!

No matter how you choose to spend your time in California , it will surely be one of your most beloved RV vacations!

Recommended by Ossama of Awesome Traveler

RV road trips in the east

Traditionally the western part of the USA is known for its outdoor adventure, and a great spot for RVers. However, the eastern part of the US has some pretty spectacular RV vacation ideas too. Check these out!

14. Florida’s A1A

• Distance: 338.7 miles
• Recommended time: 6-8 days
• Best time of year: Winter

Hop in the RV and fire up the AC for a scenic trip along Florida’s A1A. This State Road runs from Fernandina Beach, just south of Georgia on Amelia Island, to the lively Key West , south of the Sunshine State. It’s one of the very best RV vacation ideas in the USA.

While the drive is pretty, there’s plenty of opportunity to get off the route to see Florida’s coastal cities.

Visit some of the “oldest” streets and buildings in the country at  St. Augustine , spend the day at the beach in Flagler, or watch the fast cars of Daytona.

Continue along the road and be sure to climb the stairs at Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse in New Smyrna, go shopping at West Palm Beach and admire the Art Deco in Miami Beach.

Finally, you’ll get to drive over the famous Seven Miles Bridge to the Florida Keys.

According to Google Maps , doing the route with no stops would take just over nine hours. However, many locations featured in the trip are notorious for traffic, so factor this time in. 

Obviously, you’ll want to make stops at attractions, how many will be dictated by your set vacation time! 

There are plenty of options for RVs to camp along the route, such as the Beverly Beach Camptown RV Resort, which has Atlantic Ocean views. Bliss. 

The best time to visit the East Coast of Florida depends on hurricane patterns, with the season running from June until November.

Also, the summer months might be too humid for out-of-staters. While winter is too cold for locals, visitors enjoy the warm temperatures, relatively crowd-free beaches, and the chance to see manatees!  

Recommended by Amanda of Hey! East Coast USA

15. Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park (a great RV vacation for fall colors!)

• Distance: Skyline Drive is 105 miles from Waynesboro to Front Royal, Virginia. 
• Recommended time: 3 hours to drive this 35-mph road, but you’ll want to stop and stay in one or two of the campgrounds. 
• Best time of year: October is the perfect time to take in the fall colors and enjoy cooler weather. 

If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful RV routes in the United States, then Skyline Drive is a must-do! Spanning 105 miles of gorgeous mountain scenery in Shenandoah National Park, this picturesque roadway is perfect for RV travelers.

It traverses the entire length of the park and offers easy access to all the amenities and activities the park has to offer.

Although you can drive the entire length of Skyline Drive in just a few hours, you won’t want to leave that soon. And with four  campgrounds in Shenandoah National Park , you don’t have to either!

All of the campgrounds have plenty of pull-thru and back-in sites for all sizes of RVs. There aren’t any hookups (water, power, or sewer), but they do have bathrooms, showers, and dump stations. They are seasonal with a range of operation between March and November each year. 

The drive is home to 61 overlooks allowing your ample opportunity to stop and take in the views of the Shenandoah Valley and the Massunutten mountains.

If you want to experience more of the park on foot, be sure to enjoy some of its 500 miles of trails, including some of the most beautiful waterfalls you’ll experience on the east coast. 

One caution for RVers is the low clearance Mary’s Rock Tunnel near Thorton Gap at mile 32. The clearance is only 12’8”, but there are four entrances to Skyline Drive so if your RV is higher than that, you can access it via one of the other points. 

This fun drive is by far one of the best RV trips in the US, and one worthy of putting on your bucket list!

Recommended by Julie of Chickery’s Travels 

16. Boston to Portland

• Distance: 110 miles
• Recommended time: 2-5 days
• Best time of year: Summer or Fall

Making a trip from Boston, MA to Portland, ME can be a fun and easy road trip for those who are looking for a short but beautiful RV route.

Normally the drive is just two hours long (110 miles) on I-95, but if you can spare some extra time there are plenty of scenic stops and charming seaside towns to extend your drive. 

Start your journey in Boston, Massachusetts which is a fun city to explore in itself. If you have a day or two, be sure to check out these date ideas in Boston if you’re on this road trip as a duo!

Don’t forget to stop at world-famous Fenway Park (Go Sox!). Check out the Freedom Trail and join a guided walking tour of some of the city’s most iconic historic sites.

Continue your journey in Salem, Massachusetts and explore the history of the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. If you’re visiting in October, there are specialized tours like Hocus Pocus and ghost tours that will help you get in spooky mood!

Head north to the charming seaside town of Ogunquit, Maine for a quintessential  New England beach town . This picturesque town is only four miles long and boasts stunning ocean views as well as a quaint town center. Dont forget to grab a lobster roll!

Cape Elizabeth Maine is a perfect stop to see some quintessential New England lighthouses. There are three main lighthouses – Portland Head Light, Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, and Bug Light. 

Finally, end your trip in the city of Portland. It is a hub for art and culture, with plenty of food and drink spots to explore. It’s a fun town to explore, and a perfect stopping point for one of the best RV vacations routes in America.

Visit local breweries like Allagash or Moon Dog Craft Brewery, or take a ferry out to Peaks Island to explore the seashore. 

Optional: you could even take the road trip a step farther and go north to Acadia National Park or Bar Harbor. Maine has so many destinations to offer visitors but a Portland RV road trip is a must!

Recommended by Sierra of Your Guide to Wandering

17. Miami to Islamorada (top routes for RV travel USA)

Distance: 90 miles Recommended time: 2 – 3 days Best time of year: Winter and Spring

Traveling to the Florida Keys with your family or friends is an exciting RV road trip. While Key West is the most well-known island to visit, traveling to Islamorada is even better.

Islamorada’s waters are famous for their clarity and rich marine life , earning the title of “Sport Fishing Capital of the World.” Legends like Zane Grey and Ernest Hemingway used to frequent the area to catch big game fish.

It’s situated about 80 miles southwest of Miami, and the driving distance between the two destinations typically covers around 90 miles, depending on the route. Depending on traffic and route selection, it usually takes between 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours to reach Islamorada. However, you’ll want to spend time in Miami and Islamorada to enjoy the destination.

The best time of year to visit Islamorada is during the winter and spring months, specifically from December to April. This period is characterized by warm and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and water sports. 

The average temperatures range from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-29 degrees Celsius), providing comfortable conditions for exploring the area.

Additionally, visiting during this time allows you to avoid the peak tourist season, which occurs during the summer months when temperatures are hotter and the area can be more crowded.

You’ll definitely want to stay at least 2 days in Islamorada if not 3. This is a great, relaxing drive allows you to get in touch with marine life and nature, and is by far one of the best RV road trips.

While in Islamorada, be sure to visit Olive Morada , which is a local shop that has delicious olive oil and balsamic vinegar, which you can do a free tasting. Plus, it’s a great shop if you are in need of souvenirs that are not cheesy.

A stay at Tavernier Elks Lodge makes this one of the best RV vacations in the USA. Just be sure to reserve your campsite early as space is limited!

Islamorada is a great RV road trip because it is gorgeous, relaxing, and allows you to reconnect with nature and loved ones.

Recommended by Fuse of Fuse Travels

More RV vacations in the US

Rounding out this list are a few of my personal favorites. From the incredible dramatic landscapes of Utah, the underrated Midwest and the beachy coasts, let’s finish out this guide to the best RV routes in the US!

18. Utah’s Mighty 5 (another favorite on this list of RV road trips)

• Distance: 362 miles
• Recommended time: 6-10 days
• Best time of year: spring or fall

This is it! One of the very best RV vacations in the United States, and it’s sooo good! This Utah national parks road trip covers a lot of ground, and some truly spectacular sights.

Starting in Moab, Utah, you’ll discover two nearby national parks. There are many things to do in Moab and you’ll want to spend at least two days there. A great RV campground between Arches and Canyonlands is Sun Outdoors Canyonlands Gateway.

Spend a day exploring Arches National Park. Hike to the famous Delicate Arch and see The Windows area , where there’s several arches within a few minutes walk from the parking lot.

In Canyonlands National Park, be sure to visit the Grand View Point Overlook, Green River Overlook and Mesa Arch. The canyon is beyond impressive! And with fewer visitors than Arches, you may even get a break from the crowds!

Between Moab and Capitol Reef National Park, enjoy the incredible Utah Scenic Byway 24 in your RV . In Capitol Reef, visit the Fruita Historic District and the orchards, and hike the Hickman Bridge Trail . On your way to the next park, stay in Wonderland RV Park .

A personal favorite along this incredible RV road trip is the Scenic Byway 12 between Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon. The views are out of this world – and just continue as you see the famous hoodoos in Bryce Canyon National Park.

Bryce Point and Inspriration Point offer amazing views of the park. And if you’re up for a hike, check out the popular Queens Garden Trail and Navajo Loop to hike down into the canyon through the funky rock formations. So fun!

Your last stop on this RV vacation is Zion National Park. Home to an amazing canyon, this park is often a bucket list check for travelers. The Zion Canyon Campground just outside the park or Watchman Campground inside the park are both great for RVs.

Hike the Canyon Overlook Trail or The Narrows for incredible views of Zion. And regardless of whether you’re traveling to Zion with kids in the RV or not, this will be a highlight of your trip!

Pro tip: When you’re driving through Zion, the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel is tricky to navigate. You’ll pay a separate fee to drive an RV through the tunnel, and you’ll want to time it right to arrive during business hours because the NPS will actually block off traffic to allow your RV to drive down the center of the road. It’s quite the experience!

When you’re thinking about RV travel USA, the Mighty 5 in Utah is the perfect adventure!

19. Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Scenic Byway Trail

• Distance: 293 miles
• Recommended time: 2+ days
• Best time of year: summer

This is truly a hidden gem in the US, and one of the best RV vacation ideas if you live in the Midwest . It connects Toledo with Conneaut, hitting major towns like Sandusky and Cleveland. It’s RV-friendly and offers a ton of outdoor recreation along the way.

The Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Scenic Byway Trail is located along Lake Erie, one of the Great Lakes in the northern US. Although you could technically drive this in one day in an RV, it’s much more exciting to stop at the many adventures along the way.

Starting at the west end of the trail in Toledo, check out the botanical gardens, museums, zoo and restaurants. Just near Toledo is a fun Ohio pumpkin farm , Fleitz Pumpkin Farm. In Port Clinton, be sure to enjoy a meal in the adorable downtown. Afterwards, head to the beach at Waterworks Park and the Port Clinton Lighthouse.

One of my favorite stops along this route is the Marblehead Lighthouse. This free attraction is also the most photographed spot on Lake Erie. It just screams summer on the lake vibes!

There’s also so many things to do in Sandusky Ohio , nearby. Get your thrills at Cedar Point, the 2nd oldest amusement park in America. And bonus: it has RV-friendly parking.

Further along the Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Scenic Byway Trail is Cleveland, the home of rock and roll. Enjoy the North Coast Harbor, the Great Lakes Science Center and of course, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

The next stop in your RV should be Headlands Beach State Park in Mentor. This gem includes a natural, mile-long beach perfect for relaxing. A perfect addition to one of the best RV trips in the Midwest!

Lastly, Conneaut Township Park is a fun spot to see on the far eastern end of the scenic trail. If you’re a history buff, you won’t want to miss the D-Day reenactment at the park each year.

Other outdoor adventures along the route include hiking, biking and a plethora of water sports. There’s also so much wildlife to be seen, especially in the active summer months. This underrated and scenic RV vacation is one of the best in the Midwest!

20. Denver to Santa Fe (another underrated spot on this list of RV vacation ideas)

• Distance: The easiest and quickest route from Denver, CO to Santa Fe, NM is 392 miles.
• Recommended time: This drive could easily be done in one day or could be drawn out over 3-4 days.
• Best time of year: Fall is one of the best times to take this road trip because of the moderate temperatures and fall foliage that you get to experience along the way.

A road trip from Denver to Santa Fe must be on your bucket list as one of the best RV vacations to embark on throughout the United States. This trip takes about 6 hours in length, making it the perfect road trip to take in one day or to spread out over 3-4 days! 

As you make your way from Denver towards Santa Fe, you will pass through an abundance of beautiful terrain and popular towns. 

About an hour and a half into the drive, you will pass through the marvelous town of Colorado Springs!

For those looking to catch some tremendous views of the surrounding mountains and red rock formations, be sure to stop by the Garden of the Gods . This is the perfect stop for those looking to stretch their legs for a bit and take in the beautiful Colorado landscape. The Siamese Twins Garden of the Gods hike is perfect for a quick adventure!

For those looking to extend their stay in the area, the Garden of the Gods RV Resort is the perfect destination to stop for a night or two along the way. 

After visiting Colorado Springs, we recommend continuing your drive one of the best RV road trips, south through several smaller towns and along I-25 until you arrive at the charming city of Santa Fe so that you can spend as much time exploring this marvelous town as possible. 

We recommend staying for a minimum of 72 hours in Santa Fe so that you can take in the immense history, culture, and cuisine that this delightful city has to offer!

Recommended by Abby of Trekking Price’s

Related read: Denver to Albuquerque Drive: 10 Scenic Stops You Can’t Miss

21. Austin to Corpus Christi

• Distance: 217 miles
• Best time of year: December – May

This fun and unique RV vacation idea for those located in or near Texas! Because of the extreme heat in Texas, this road trip would be best done in the winter or spring. Just make sure your RV is set up for freezing temperatures as that can sometimes in the deep of winter too.

Start this adventure in the lively town of Austin . With a plethora of street art, live music, good food and entertainment, spend a day (or 2) in Austin.

For outdoor adventures, go hiking in McKinney Falls State Park or check out the views from the top of Mount Bonnell. There are plenty of Austin campgrounds for RVs, too.

From Austin, drive southwest to San Antonio. Visit the famous San Antonio River Walk for entertainment and restaurants. For some thrilling entertainment, visit Six Flags Fiesta Texas, which is open year-round.

Check out The Alamo and the Historic Market Square to round out your time in San Antonio. The KOA in San Antonio puts you in a good position for hopping on and off the main roads while putting you close to the action.

After leaving San Antonio, head south to Corpus Christi. This Texas town has some fun things to do including museums, shopping and restaurants. But the star of the area is the beach-camping in your RV!

Just southeast of Corpus Christi are a few RV parks where you can camp on the beach. Wake up to the sound of the ocean from your RV – so fun! The Port Aransas area is lots of fun, and is home to On the Beach RV Park, which offers a great stay. Book in advance to get a good spot!

For an off-the-grid adventure, you can camp, hike and enjoy water activities at Padre Island National Seashore. There’s no RV hook-ups, but there is water and a dump station in the park.

If you’re looking for the best RV travel USA, this road trip is certainly a fun one, and unique because of beach camping.

22. New Orleans to Panama City (another gorgeous route on this list of best RV vacations)

• Distance: New Orleans to Panama City: 327 miles (via I-10 E), 386 miles (via I-10 E and US-98 E)
• Recommended time : 1-2 days  
• Best time of year: May – October 

An RV road trip is one of the best ways to explore a new part of the country. With the freedom to pull off or take a detour on a whim, road trips always make for memorable adventures. The stretch of road between New Orleans to Panama City offers a great RV vacation experience. 

Travelers should begin their road trip in New Orleans, home of jazz, voodoo history, riverboat adventures, and so much more. Make sure to take a  New Orleans food tour or cemetery tour before continuing on toward Panama City. 

Travelers who want to travel efficiently and stick to the shortest route won’t run into any exceptionally fun cities or attractions, except for Mobile, Alabama. But, those who have a bit more time to work with might enjoy slight detours to Biloxi, Mississippi, and Pensacola, Florida. 

There are some amazing beaches to explore along this route if schedules allow for a detour to the coast. Fort Walton Beach, Pensacola Beach, and Santa Rosa Beach are just some of the picturesque places travelers can visit along their way to Panama City.   

Travelers who avoid the coastal detour will also be able to enjoy the beach upon arrival in Panama City. Panama City Beach is a wonderful place to spend some time in the sun as well as St. Andrews State Park. 

Spring through early Fall is the best time of year to take this road trip. Here’s to wonderful RV adventures! 

Recommended by Candice of Exploring the Gulf

23. Badlands to Theodore Roosevelt National Park (get ready for beautiful landscapes on this RV road trip)

• Distance: 338 miles
• Recommended time: 3 – 4 days
• Best time of year: spring, summer or fall

An all-American road trip, this scenic route has surprisingly dramatic landscapes! This is one of the most underrated RV vacations on this list, but is sure to be a fun one.

Starting in Rapid City or Wall, South Dakota, head to Badlands National Park. You’ll want to spend a full day here to see the highlights. Drive the scenic loop, with 16 overlooks in just 39 miles, it’s RV-friendly. The Notch Trail is a must-do if you love hiking, and Pinnacles Overlook is one of the best with ample parking.

From there, take a slight detour before heading to North Dakota to see Mount Rushmore , one of the most famous South Dakota landmarks .

An American classic, this presidential tribute is a fun attraction for all ages to visit. Completed in 1941, Mount Rushmore welcomes over 3 million visitors – almost 3x the amount of the nearby national park!

Rapid City is a great spot to set up camp for the night. Or, there’s plenty of campgrounds near Sturgis, South Dakota as well. And if you’re in the off-season, stop in town and pick up a souvenir on your road trip!

Pro tip: summer is a great time for this RV road trip, but I’d suggest avoiding late July and early August. This region in South Dakota is extremely congested with the annual Sturgis event, making it extremely difficult to find a campground and a dramatic increase in traffic to the area.

From Sturgis, it’s about 3.5 hours north to Theodore Roosevelt National Park. To see the highlights of this park, you’ll want 2 full days. There are 3 distinct areas of the park: South Unit, North Unit, and Elkhorn Ranch. The Elkhorn Ranch Unit is partially unpaved, and not very RV-friendly so we’ll skip that in this guide.

The South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park is by far the most visited area . Drive the Wildlife Loop Road, where visitors can often see bison, elk, bighorn sheep and pronghorn. Hike the 1-mile Painted Canyon Nature Trail or Buck Hill, which is barely more than a walk to an overlook rather than a hike.

The North Unit feels much more deserted versus the southern area of the park, yet offers expansive views. Take the scenic drive in hopes of seeing mule deer, coyote, pronghorn and even beavers! The Little Mo Trail is a crowd favorite, coming in at less than a mile and paved.

If you want to get campground reservations for your RV, plan your trip in advance as they sell out quickly, especially in the summer months.

So the next time you think about RV travel USA, consider the Dakotas a great spot for a vacation!

RV vacations recap

What an epic list of RV vacations to take in the United States! From fan-favorites, to underrate gems, the options are truly endless! Where will your home on wheels take you next?

Here’s a quick recap of the best RV trips from the above list!

Best RV routes

• Great Smoky Mountains: Asheville to Gatlinburg
• Alaska RV road trip
• Milwaukee to Ludington
• Phoenix to Page, Arizona
• San Francisco to Lake Tahoe
• Santa Fe to White Sands National Park
• Las Vegas to Zion plus the Grand Canyon
• Sequoia National Park to Monterey via Big Sur
• Glacier to Yellowstone National Park
• Joshua Tree and Death Valley National Park
• Ashland to Crater Lake National Park
• Highway 395, California
• Los Angeles to San Diego
• Florida’s A1A
• Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park
• Boston to Portland
• Miami to Islamorada
• Utah’s Mighty 5
• Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Scenic Byway Trail
• Denver to Santa Fe
• Austin to Corpus Christi
• New Orleans to Panama City
• Badlands to Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Related content to read next: 30 Gorgeous West Coast Road Trip Routes You Gotta See to Believe 29 Amazing Road Trips USA: Scenic (& Underrated) Routes You’ll Love 26 Absolute Best (and Underrated) Fall Drives in the US You’ve Gotta See to Believe

Find this post helpful? Save it for later or share it on social media!

Sunday 9th of July 2023

Yeeees Nikki!

You choose the best trips as you are so good at including gorgeous natural sights and hikes along the way! The Alaska trip looks like a dream! I am also looking forward to your post after your next Canadian Rockies trip. :)

Monday 10th of July 2023

Thanks so much Josy! Your comment was so nice! Yes, I can't wait for new adventures taking the RV into Canada, too!💙

Anna Schaeffer

Saturday 8th of July 2023

I'm hoping to get a five wheeler in the next year or two! Pinning this for later. Great post!

Oh yay Anna! This would be great inspiration for a new RV!!

I don’t own a RV but this article makes me want to rent one and try these trips! Great roundup.

Oh Terri that's a fabulous idea! You could literally go anywhere on this list too - just fly into the nearest airport, rent an RV and hit the road!

Best RV Road Trips: 9 Top Routes Around the USA

I’ve been to all 50 states, 49 of them in an RV. There are beautiful places to explore all around the United States, but there are some great places that surpass the rest.

The type of routes that make you feel like you’ve won the life lottery. The ones that make you ask, “Is this even real life?!” 

Whether you’re a full-time RVer or planning a family vacation for the summer, you may be feeling overwhelmed at the options of where to go next and wondering which roads are the best and most scenic to enjoy through RV travel.  

After over 50,000 miles behind the wheel and exploring every corner of this country, I’ve compiled the best RV road trips for you to explore!

Length of Route: Approximately 1,650 miles from Seattle, Washington to Los Angeles, California Best Time of Year to Go: Spring/Summer/Fall

Imagine cruising down the coasts of Washington, Oregon, and California, with practically perfect moderate temperatures year-round. There’s no need for AC, just roll the windows down and inhale that salty ocean breeze.

Welcome to the Pacific Coast Highway, one of the best road trips in North America.

To be fair, this route can be as beautiful as it is challenging to drive, depending on the size of your RV. There are many sections along the PCH that are not big rig friendly. 

While the weather is moderate compared to other parts of the country, you can expect some freezing temperatures in the winter or even early spring in some parts of the Pacific Northwest along the route. 

Most folks are surprised to learn that the summer months are actually one of the least desirable times to visit California due to what the locals call ‘May Gray’ or ‘June Gloom’.

The marine layer tends to be thick and chilly, making the roads more dangerous to drive and less scenic.

PCH Must-See Sites

• Olympic National Park, WA
• Cape Disappointment State Park, WA
• Cannon Beach, OR
• Natural Bridges, OR
• Trees of Mystery, CA
• Redwood National Park & State Park, CA
• Fort Bragg, CA
• Point Reyes National Seashore, CA
• Big Sur, CA 
• Pismo Beach, CA
• Santa Monica Pier, CA

PRO TIP: Drive the route from North to South for the most spectacular views.

Length of Route: Approximately 125 miles from Fernandina Beach to Daytona Beach (continue on Highway 1 to Key West, 540 miles) Best Time of Year to Go: Winter

There’s really nothing like RVing in Florida during the winter. While folks shovel snow up north, you’re walking barefoot on the beach or soaking in the historical sites along Florida’s east coast. 

This route includes the A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway (72 miles), as well as surrounding must-see cities and sites.

A1A and Coastal Florida Must-See Sites

• Fernandina Beach
• Little Talbot Island State Park
• Guana Tolomato Matanzas 
• Saint Augustine
• Fort Matanzas National Monument
• Daytona Beach

BONUS: Continue south on Highway 1 across the famous Seven Mile Bridge to the Florida Keys and end your journey in Key West (#8). Be sure to sightsee in Miami (#7), and kayak in Crystal River to see the manatees!

3. blue ridge parkway.

Length of Route:  Approximately 450 miles from Gatlinburg, Tennessee to Shenandoah National Park Best Time of Year to Go: Summer/Fall

Known as America’s favorite drive, this road trip belongs on the bucket list of every RVer. But like many scenic parkways, there are windy curves, mountains to traverse, and tunnels to go through.

It’s crucial to know your rig’s height and not to push your tow vehicle’s limits over the passes of Tennessee, North Carolina, and Virginia.  

Blue Ridge Parkway Must-See Sites

• Gatlinburg, TN
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Asheville, NC
• The Blowing Rock, NC
• Roanoke, VA
• Skyline Drive/Shenandoah National Park

4. The Grand Circle of National Parks

Length of Route: Approximately 1,370 miles roundtrip Best Time of Year to Go: Spring

You may have heard of the Utah 5, but did you know you can easily expand that itinerary to include parks in Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona? 

This is one of the best RV road trip routes for the National Park geeks.

Must-See Sites

• Zion National Park
• Bryce Canyon National Park
• Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument
• Capitol Reef National Park
• Canyonlands National Park
• Arches National Park
• Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
• Telluride, CO
• Mesa Verde National Park
• Shiprock, NM
• Petrified Forest National Park
• Grand Canyon National Park
• Lake Powell

5. National Parks of the Northwest

Length of Route: 476 miles from Jackson, Wyoming to West Glacier, Montana Best Time of Year to Go: Summer/Fall

Pack up the kids and get them away from the screens. I guarantee the views out the windows of this route will be better than any new TikTok trend. 

This route involves a bit more planning to time it out just perfectly. You want to avoid the peak season summer crowds at Yellowstone but not arrive too late to Glacier National Park to drive the Going to the Sun Road . I would say late summer or early fall will be your best bet for this trip. 

Northwest Parks Must-See Sites

• Jackson, WY
• Grand Teton National Park
• Yellowstone National Park including: Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone Canyon, Grand Prismatic Spring
• Bozeman, MT
• Glacier National Park

6. Tour of New England

Length of Route: 761 miles from Newport, Rhode Island to Burlington, Vermont Best Time of Year to Go: Fall

The only downfall of traveling this route is you’ll have a hard time keeping it on the road when you want to be sightseeing around every corner.

While the West gets a lot of credit for epic road trips, the beauty of the Northeast is often underrated for its road trip potential.

• The Cliff Walk Newport, RI
• Cape Cod National Seashore
• Boston, MA 
• Portland, ME
• Acadia National Park
• White Mountains, NH
• Green Mountains, VT
• Burlington, VT

7. The California Loop

Length of Route: Approximately 2,200 miles from Sacramento, California roundtrip Best Time of Year to Go: Spring/Summer

Being born and raised in California, I can honestly say you could spend an entire lifetime exploring the Golden State and not be able to see and do it all, but the California Loop hits the highlights.

This scenic route could take you a couple of weeks or a few months to complete!

• Yosemite National Park
• Sequoia National Park/Kings Canyon National Park
• Eastern Sierras
• Death Valley National Park
• Joshua Tree National Park
• Palm Springs
• Los Angeles
• Santa Barbara – side trip to Channel Islands National Park
• San Francisco
• Napa Valley

8. Arizona Road Trip

Length of Route: Approximately 1,300 miles roundtrip from Tucson Best Time of Year to Go: Spring/Winter

Join the snowbirds and take a tour of Arizona. Like the California Loop, this Arizona road trip hits a lot of the popular destinations while taking you from South to North, East to West, and back. 

• Saguaro National Park
• Kartchner Caverns
• Casa Grande National Monument
• Montezuma Castle National Monument
• Meteor Crater Natural Landmark
• Winslow – don’t forget to stand on the corner! 
• Monument Valley
• Antelope Canyon
• Organ Pipe National Monument

I may have saved my personal favorite of the best RV trips for last because nothing says ‘road trip’ more than this next one.

9. Route 66

Length of Route: 2,448 miles from Chicago, Illinois to Los Angeles, California Best Time of Year to Go: Summer/Fall

The Mother Road. The ultimate All-American road trip, Route 66. When you think of a nostalgic road trip driving off into the Western sunset, you probably imagine a scenic drive along Route 66. 

While most of the original road has been surpassed by I-40, you can still step back in time along a surprisingly 85% preserved original route that starts in downtown Chicago and ends at the famous Santa Monica Pier in Southern California.

FUN FACT: Oklahoma has the most drivable miles of Route 66 than any other state. 

The original Route 66 road is RV friendly, although it can sometimes be a bit bumpy and riddled with potholes. But I think that adds to the nostalgia of it, and forces you to slow down and soak it all in.

Route 66 Must-See Sites

• Chicago, IL
• Springfield, IL – Abraham Lincoln Historical Sights
• The Route 66 Museum and Welcome Center in Litchfield, IL
• Henry’s Rabbit Ranch, IL
• Saint Louis Arch, MO
• Meramec Caverns, MO
• Galena, KS – Inspiration for the Disney Pixar film Cars
• The Blue Whale – Catoosa, OK
• Oklahoma Route 66 Museum
• The Midpoint Cafe & Sign – Adrian, TX 
• Cadillac Ranch – Amarillo, TX
• The neon lights of Tucumcari, NM
• Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
• Delgadillo’s Snowcap – Seligman, AZ
• The ghost town of Oatman, AZ (*note – the original route is a windy and narrow mountain road, so proceed with caution).
• The End of Route 66 at the Santa Monica Pier, CA

You could spend a week or a month soaking in all of the sites of Route 66. There’s no wonder it’s one of the best RV road trips. My best piece of advice is to take your time to see it all.

Go slow, read the signs, take touristy pictures, talk to the locals, and support the businesses that are still serving the small towns along the route. Go back to a simpler time along the Mother Road.

Best RV Road Trips for Beginners

There are countless popular destinations and beautiful scenery to be seen all around the United States, but the above road trips are a great way to get you on the open road!

If you’re a beginner RVer, remember to slow down and take your time planning. Also, try to avoid a strict schedule. This is the best way to have a pleasant trip and ensure you aren’t overwhelmed with the logistics and unpredictability of RV life.

Instead, you’ll be sure to fully enjoy the places you see and make tons of priceless memories on some of the best roads in the US.

Your Guide to Launching RV Life

Road Map & Checklist – Start Now!

Unsubscribe at any time. View our  privacy policy .

RELATED ARTICLES

• RVing the USA: 48 States in 9 Months
• What Stores Allow Overnight RV Parking?
• An Honest Harvest Hosts Review: Is It Worth It?

Want beginner tips on RV living and travel?

Check out our guide to preparing for full-time RV living, including info on choosing an RV, budgeting for RV life, gear guides, and more.

Like this post? Save it on Pinterest for later.

Or view our web stories.

Kerisa has been traveling the U.S. with her husband and fur kids in their 89 sq. ft. home on wheels since 2020 and has been to all 50 states. She is the copywriter/owner of Outside Voice Collective and blogger at the Traveling Tiongsons. You'll most likely find her behind the wheel on a scenic byway or relaxing around a campfire with a good glass of wine at the end of the day.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Sign Me Up!

Learn how to live in an rv.

Get weekly tips on how to start traveling full-time in an RV.

View our privacy policy .

Privacy Overview

• Types Of RVs
• Tow Vehicles
• Maintenance & Repairs
• RV Power & Electrical Supplies
• RV Appliances
• Living In An RV
• Travel & Destinations
• RV Gear Buyer’s Guides

20 Best RV Trip Planners in 2024: Perfect RV Trip Planning Tools for Road Trip Adventures

• Last Updated: September 2, 2024
• 13 minutes read

Going on an RV adventure is both thrilling and demanding, requiring meticulous preparation to ensure a seamless journey.

Central to this preparation is choosing the best RV trip planners .

Having tested over 30 different RV trip planning tools firsthand, I’ve navigated my way through countless routes, campsites, and destinations to find the most reliable and user-friendly options that cater to the unique needs of RV travelers.

In my search for efficient planning tools, I found that RV Trip Wizard stands out as the best overall for its comprehensive features that cater to all aspects of RV travel planning, including route planning, campsite reviews, and essential stopovers, making planning an RV trip in 2024 a breeze.

This level of in-depth exploration and testing has equipped me with the knowledge to confidently guide others in their RV travel preparations.

Based on my experience, the top RV trip planning tools are:

• RV Trip Wizard : Best overall for comprehensive RV trip planning
• CoPilot RV : Optimal for detailed route planning
• Google Maps : Great for familiar interface and real-time updates
• RoadTrippers : Excellent for discovering unique roadside attractions
• RV Parky : Top choice for free campground and parking lot finds
• The Dyrt : Ideal for comprehensive campground reviews and tips
• Free Campsites : Best free RV route planner for boondocking
• HipCamp : Superior for finding private and unique camping spots
• Campendium : Great for detailed campground info and RV park reviews
• iOverlander : Top for international RV travel planning
• Harvest Hosts : Best for unique overnight stays at wineries and farms
• Oh, Ranger! : Ideal for U.S. national and state park information
• AllTrails : Excellent for hiking trail explorations
• Spotify : Must-have for road trip entertainment
• Libby : Top for free access to books and audiobooks
• Drive.fm : Great for hands-free guided tours
• GasBuddy : Essential for finding the best gas prices nearby
• MyRadar : Ideal for weather predictions on the go
• American Red Cross : Must-have for emergency preparedness resources
• Outdoorsy : Best for RV and gear rentals

IN THIS ARTICLE

Best RV Trip Planner Apps

A good plan can help you save money, relax, and stay organized, so you can see and do more.

Below are the two best RV Road Trip Planner apps on the market for Planning the Perfect RV Trip Route:

1. RV Trip Wizard (iOS, Android, Web Browser) (PAID)

If you’re looking for the best RV trip planner app on the market look no further.

RV Trip Wizard is a versatile and user-friendly that offers a more expansive and diverse list of campgrounds and points of interests than it’s closest competitor CoPilot RV. 

If you don’t believe me, just check out these useful features, including:

It’s a web-based program. No installation required so you can use it on any device with access to the web. 

No internet, no problem! Download your trip onto a device and use it offline.

A stream-lined, interactive map helps users plot the safest route for their RV’s exact class and size.

No stop limit. Users can select as many stops as they want along their route, from a database of over 20,000 campsites and 57,000 points of interest.

Save money. The programs money tracking tool will help you keep track of expenditures and better budget your trip.

But that’s not all! RV Trip Wizard recently teamed up with the RV LIFE GPS & Campgrounds app to provide it’s users with safe, RV-relevant navigation. All you need is a mobile phone, or other GPS enabled device.

Then you just download the RV LIFE GPS & Campgrounds app from the app store (Android or iOS), sign in using the same credentials as RV Trip Wizard, and voila!

Now you can enjoy the app’s full premium features while also being able to navigate any of the trips you saved in RV Trip Wizard.

You can try RV Trip Wizard out with a 7-day free trial, or buy it for $49.99/year . 

2. CoPilot RV (iOS, Android) (PAID)

CoPilot RV is a cheaper and slightly lower quality RV Trip Planner than it’s competitor, RV Trip Wizard.

It lacks RV Trip Wizard’s versatility and range of options, but it’s still miles ahead of the free options.

For those of you looking for a cheaper, but still more than adequate RV Trip Planner app this is the app for you.

It provides all the useful features you’ll need, including:

Reliable offline navigation. Now you won’t lose your route when you lose your connection.

Finds safe routes for any RV. It does so by calculating your route according to your vehicle’s height, class, and weight

Save gas money. It allows you to choose up to 50 stops and gives you the best route so you can avoid road closure, traffic, and backtracking. 

Safe navigator with RVs in mind. It alerts you about complex intersections and helps you to avoid low bridges and tunnels with propane restrictions. 

An in-app search bar will help you find campgrounds, gas stations, hotels, restaurants and more near you

One strength that CoPilot RV has that RV Trip Wizard does not, is it’s one-stop shop app.

Unlike RV Trip Wizard you do not need to download two separate apps to plan and navigate your trip. It all comes together in one app. 

Try it out for a 14-day free trial . If you like it you can subscribe to CoPilot RV for an affordable $29.99/year .

Best Free RV Trip Route Planning Tools

These apps aren’t RV specific, but unlike RV Trip Wizard and CoPilot RV they’re free.

Those of you that don’t mind putting in a little extra work to save some cash will find these trip planning apps helpful. Check them out:

3. Google Maps (iOS, Android, Web Browser)

They may never let me into an Apple store again for saying this, but, Google Maps is superior to Apple Maps. 

It allows for offline use, let’s you plan longer trips by selecting multiple stops along your route, and gives you the option to save trips to your home-screen.

Furthermore, it’ll show you live traffic updates, speed traps, and even gas prices. 

4. RoadTrippers(iOS, Android, Web Browser)

This app makes planning your next road trip easy. I mean, come on, it’s in the name people! Don’t believe me? Well, RoadTrippers’s interactive map let’s you plot your trip with ease.

It even calculates your trip’s overall driving time and estimates your gas cost based on your vehicle’s MPG.

As if all of that wasn’t enough, it also helps you locate nearby accommodations, attractions, and restaurants along your route.

Plan Your Accommodations

States differ greatly in their laws and restriction regarding RVs. Some are relaxed, while others, will not even let you park your rig on the side of the road.

Needless to say, you’re going to need to find places to stay along your way.

I’ve divided this section into, “Just RV Parks”, “Just Boondocking and Camping”, and “All the Above—RV Parks, Camping, and Boondocking” to help you find the tool that best fits your needs.

5. RV Parky (iOS, Android, Web Browser) (FREE)

I use this app ALL the time. RV Parky interactive map provides you with over 25,000 options for places to park overnight.

Each RV Park listing provides all the necessary information for amenities and cell service as well as user reviews.

Even better, it will also assist you in locating those elusive overnight parking lots, like the ones you find at places like Cracker Barrel and Walmart as well as overnight rest stops.

6. The Dyrt (iOS, Android, Web Browser) (FREE)

The Dyrt app allows you to find outdoor accommodations across the United States, whether you’re in a tent, trailer, RV, or cabin.

It provides millions of listings, reviews, prices, and tips from other campers who have already visited. If boondocking is your game, The Dyrt is the name.

7. Free Campsites (Web Browser) (FREE)

Gotta love simplicity. And that’s exactly what Free Campsites provides. The site allows you to plan a travel route through their ‘trip planner’ option.

Not only will it provide text directions, but it’ll also show you any and all campsites along the way (free, or otherwise).

Unfortunately, there’s no app for this tool yet, but it’s easily accessible through most web browsers. 

8. HipCamp (iOS, Android, Web Browser)

If there was one accommodation app to rule them all, HipCamp would be it. It allows you to search for campsites and RV parks all over the United States.

Tired of your RV? They have you covered on that as well. The app provides options for cabins, and even treehouses!   

RVs and Campgrounds (Android / iOS) (FREE)

RVs and Campgrounds (Android / iOS) is as straight forward as it’s name. You can search for RV Parks and Campground across North America.

Like many of the other options in this article, each listing includes user reviews of these accommodations so you know what you’re getting into before you get there.

Unfortunately, there’s no web browser version, so you’ll need your phone for this app. 

9. Campendium (iOS, Android, Web Browser) (FREE)

Campendium is the prettier, more user-friendly version of Free Campsites. It also provides you with more options than just campsites.

You can use filters to locate any, and every, type of outdoor accommodation.

It provides a plethora of useful information for RV-ers as well, including: last paid price, longest RV reported at site, and clearance access information.

And while it doesn’t have an app yet, you can add the Campendium’s icon to your phone’s home screen by following these helpful instructions (iOS / Android).

10. iOverlander (iOS, Android, Web Browser) (FREE)

“There can only be one!”

Oh wait, that’s Highlander. But seriously if you’re going to plan an RV trip with only one app, iOverlander is the one.

It’ll help you find water and propane refill stations, dump stations, mechanics, boondock sites, RV parks, showers, and more.

Best part? The app covers a 100+ countries so you can use it almost anywhere in the world. 

11. Harvest Hosts (iOS, Android, Web Browser) (PAID)

With Harvest Hosts you can kill two birds, with one stone. Sorry, proverbial birds.

This app requires that you pay $79.99/year, but connects you to over 1500 host, ranging from museums, breweries, wineries, gift shops, and farms.

Most of these hosts only require you to buy one of their products as payment for staying on their property overnight. 

So, you can buy a souvenir for your dear grandma AND pay for a place to stay while doing it. 

Love golfing? Well, Harvest Hosts does too. You can pay $119/year and expand that normal subscription to include their hosts’ golf courses. Waking up to a round of golf, means money well spent. 

Be sure to ask about their amenities before deciding on which host you want to use. Some hosts provide full hook-ups, while others provide no amenities at all

Plan Things to Do in the Great Outdoors

RV’s and the Outdoors go together like roads and maps. Once you get to your campsite, you’ll probably want to explore nature, do some fishing, or find a good hiking trail. These are the best apps for doing just that.

12. Oh, Ranger! (iOS, Android, Web Browser) (FREE)

Oh, Ranger! app is like having a little park ranger in your pocket (without the kidnapping charges!).

Not only will it help you find National Parks, State Parks, and BLM land near you, but it also provides maps, activities, and other information specific to that park.

Not only can you use it to plan where you want to camp, but also what you want to do and what you want to see. 

13. AllTrails (iOS, Android, Web Browser)

There’s no better way to experience the Outdoors like a good hiking trail. But how do you know which trails are the best for you? Download AllTrails.

You can use the app to browse over 50,000 trails across North America. Find the ones that best suit your interests by using the interactive map and helpful filters. 

Entertainment Apps for Road Trips

Hitting the road in your RV sounds like a blast, until you’re on the road. Then it’s mostly monotonous scenery and blurring cars. You’re liable to drive yourself, and your passengers, crazy unless you plan ahead with these apps:

14. Spotify (iOS, Android, Web Browser)

Spotify a road trip tenet that predates the road: “Go forth, but do it with music”. Humans have been rolling around with tunes since the first Homo Sapiens drummed a beat on their knee.

Fortunately, we’ve come a long way since turning our patella into a rhythm section. For example: Spotify.

This free app gives you access to millions of songs, lets you create that all-important road trip playlist, and even offers podcasts. Best yet, you can download audio for offline use!

The only drawback? Advertisements. Erase them by subscribing to Spotify Premium.

For $9.99 a month you can erase those pesky ads, access exclusive podcasts, use unlimited skips, and more.

15. Libby (iOS, Android, Web Browser)

Got a library card? It’s that decaying piece of plastic in your wallet/purse/keychain. Dig it out. Download Libby.

Now, you have access to millions of e-books and audiobooks. The app even works like a library.

You check-out the book, borrow it for a designated amount of time, and then digitally return it.

Libby allows you to check-out up to 25 titles, and renew them when needed. Not impressed? Libby even lets you download the book for use offline. That way, when your cell-service disappears, your audiobook won’t.

16. Drive.fm (iOS, Android)

Your passenger won’t stop talking about their Aunt’s foot fugus. Instead, of turning your wheel towards the nearest cliff, download this app! Drive.fm only has a few free features, but they’ll keep you busy for at least one road trip.

If you’re a road addict you may want to consider the $4.99/month subscription.

It will give you access to a number of hands-free games, including: quizzes, Jeopardy, movie trivia, interactive stories and more!

On the Road

Helmuth von Moltke famously said, “No plan survives first contact with the enemy”. Incidentally, no plan survives first contact with the road either. Be prepared, download these apps:

17. GasBuddy (iOS, Android, Web Browser)

Haven’t bought the new, electric Dusseldorf RV yet, huh? Me neither. Don’t worry though, you don’t have to cry every time you visit the pump. GasBuddy finds you the cheapest gas and diesel prices in your area.

It comes outfitted with a trip cost calculator, gas price map, and even offers a free credit card that will save you up to 25¢ per gallon. Keep your money for what really matters on the road — snacks.

18. MyRadar (iOS, Android, Windows)

Sure, you could just type ‘weather’ into Google, and get the temperature. The only problem? A road trip requires foresight. MyRadar is free app like a weather prophet! Allow the app to track your current location, or type in a destination.

It’ll produce a real-time map of the region. MyRadar will then show you the weather stats for the area, and the forecast for the next couple of days.

But that’s not all! The app populates the map with real-time weather systems. Useful when you’re trying to avoid blizzards, or track a storm

19. American Red Cross (iOS, Android, Web Browser)

I might be the most accident-prone person I know. If you’re not one yourself, you most likely know someone that is.

Do them, and yourself, a possibly lifesaving favor. Download the American Red Cross App. This tool provides solutions to common emergencies you’ll run into on the road.

It also includes videos and interactive quizzes that will, not only help keep boredom at bay, but also teach you important, life-saving 

Need an RV?

Want to plan an RV trip, but don’t have an RV? Normally that would be an issue, if it weren’t for an app like this:

20. Outdoorsy (iOS, Android, Web Browser)

Outdoorsy is basically an AirBnB for campervans, trailers, Class A rigs, and Class C rigs.

It connects you with owners in your area who are willing to rent out their recreational vehicles. It’s usually cheaper than other rental companies, and with less hassle. 

There you have it! The best apps and tools for planning your next RV road trip at your fingertips. But that’s enough talking from me. What’s your favorite RV trip planning app or tool?

About Author / Aaron Richardson

Aaron Richardson is an expert RVer and the co-founder of RVing Know How. Aaron, along with his wife Evelyn, has been living and traveling in their Keystone Fuzion RV since 2017. Their adventures span across the country and beyond, including memorable RVing experiences in Mexico. Aaron's passion for the outdoors and RVing shines through in his writings, where he shares a blend of travel stories, practical tips, and insights to enhance the RV lifestyle.

8 Best SUVs for Towing Travel Trailer in 2024: Top Rated SUV for Towing

4 excellent class b rv’s with slide outs.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

You Might Also Like

Top 5 Best Campgrounds Near Lake Tahoe

Ultimate Guide To Beach Camping In California: Top Spots, Tips & Must-Haves

Discover The Majestic Sleeping Bear Dunes: A Natural Wonder 

Start typing and press Enter to search

• Destinations
• Hotels & All-Inclusives
• Theme Parks

10 Unforgettable RV Road Trips in the U.S. for Families

Level up your next road trip with an rv or mobile home..

Road trips are a classic vacation idea for families , and hitting the road in an RV or mobile home is a great way to take the quintessential road trip experience to the next level. With an RV road trip, you’re literally bringing your hotel room along for the ride, so there’s no worrying about clean accommodations, packing and unpacking at each stop, or even finding a restaurant along the way. RVs also make it easier to bring the family pet or road trip with a baby , too. 

The Best RV Destinations and RV Vacation Ideas for Families

The best RV vacation ideas range from short weekend trips to weeklong (or longer) RV trips, and once you arrive at your destination you can park your RV, unhook your tow vehicle, and drive to local attractions. (If you opt for a drivable motorhome, you may want to tow a vehicle behind as a runaround vehicle.) Wondering where to go on your RV road trip? Here are the best RV destinations in the U.S. for all different kinds of families and interests. 

WHERE TO STAY: 10 Best Campgrounds and RV Parks for Families

1. Best RV Road Trip Route for Families with Little Kids

Orlando to west palm beach – 3 stops, 170 miles.

“Keeping everyone entertained is the key to a successful vacation,” says RV aficionado Amanda Adler of  SabbaticalfromSuburbia.com . And with world-renowned Orlando theme parks like the Harry Potter areas at Universal Studios and the Star Wars land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios , not to mention white sand beaches , animal explorations, and family campgrounds overflowing with action-packed amenities, a Florida RV road trip truly offers something for every member of your traveling party. 

NO HIDDEN FEES: 7 Best Florida All-Inclusive Resorts for Families

Kick off your road trip route with a stay at one of the best Disney World hotels in Orlando ,  Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground , where your family will have access to a robust lineup of activities, including daily campfire sing-a-longs with Chip ‘n’ Dale, Disney movie nights, and convenient boat service to Magic Kingdom. 

Next, head south to the small town of River Ranch , where you can park your RV at a family glamping resort and dude ranch,  Westgate River Ranch Resort and Rodeo . The property offers everything a young cowpoke could possibly desire: a petting farm, airboat and swamp buggy rides, horseback riding, mini golf, rock climbing, and a thrilling  Saturday night rodeo .

Of course, no RV road trip to the Sunshine State would be complete without a visit to the beach. Head for South Florida, where you’ll have your pick of tropical beaches as you cruise along the Atlantic Ocean. Opt for a stop at the kid-friendly waters of  Carlin Park  in Jupiter or  Loggerhead Park  in Juno Beach , then check out real loggerheads at nearby Loggerhead Marinelife Center , a sea turtle conservation center.

LEAVE THE KIDS AT HOME: 10 Best Hotels for Romantic Getaways in Florida

Make your home base for the last leg of your adventure the  West Palm Beach / Lion Country Safari KOA Journey , which offers the unique experience of camping next to hundreds of animals at the drive-thru  Lion Country Safari . Kids will delight in seeing water buffalo, alpaca, lions, and kudu roaming freely, making it the perfect finale to an unforgettable Florida family vacation in your RV.

2. Best RV Road Trip Route for Families with Big Kids and Tweens

Knoxville to asheville via pigeon forge – 3 stops, 270-mile loop.

This Appalachian RV vacation winds through the hollows of eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina, taking in Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain home and the quirky arts community of Asheville Start in Knoxville and head east to Pigeon Forge , where you will find the  Dollywood theme park . Thrill seekers in the family will love Dollywood’s roller coasters such as Lightning Rod , Thunderhead , and Wild Eagle , and adults will love watching craftsmen create hand-blown glass, candles, and artwork. Camp at  Pigeon Forge’s Jellystone Park  just two miles from Dollywood. 

SUNNY DAYS: 11 Best Summer Vacation Ideas for Families in the U.S.

Monica Baer of  American Coach  recommends venturing deeper into the Smokies across the North Carolina state line to Asheville . The mountains surrounding Asheville are home to incredible hiking trails, many of which reward hikers with waterfall views . Those who’d like a scenic RV road trip through the mountains can hop on the Blue Ridge Parkway and stop at any of the designated outlooks for sweeping vistas and gorgeous photo opportunities. For beer lovers, Asheville is a true treasure. With 100 local beers on tap, it’s known as one of the best beer towns in the country. RVers can spend the night at  Bear Creek  RV park and campground.

After exploring Asheville, head back to Tennessee for a stay at the  Lazy Llama Campground  in Chuckey . Owners Jerry and Carolyn Ayers allow campers to interact with the animals, whether it’s hiking with them on “Storytelling Llama Treks” or learning how to spin yarn and weave wool sourced from the llama.

FALL FUN: How to Spend a Fall Weekend in Asheville, NC (with or without the Kids)

Chuckey is only 15 miles from historic Jonesborough , Tennessee’s oldest town, which promotes itself as “The Storytelling Capital of the World.” Every October the town hosts the  National Storytelling Festival  as well as other special events throughout the year. After swapping stories, head 80 miles west to complete the RV road trip loop at your starting point in Knoxville.

3. Best RV Destinations for Families with Teenagers

Central and southwest colorado – 4 stops, 750-mile loop.

Jeff Crider of  GoRVing.com  suggests taking teens two and a half hours southwest of Denver to  Royal Gorge Bridge and Park , which features America’s highest suspension bridge and zipline. The suspension bridge is 956 feet above the Arkansas River; zipline riders soar even higher at 1,200 feet above the water.   “If you get a little woozy reading this, you could also ride a gondola across the canyon,” Crider notes. 

BUDGET-FRIENDLY TRIPS:   13 Cheap Family Vacations That Are Super Fun

At the base of the canyon are more opportunities for family travel adventures , including whitewater rafting tours with  Echo Canyon River Expeditions  and historic train rides through the canyon on the  Royal Gorge Route Railroad . Set up basecamp at the  Royal Gorge/Cañon City KOA Holiday . 

After spending a couple of days in the Royal Gorge area, head further south to  Great Sand Dunes National Park  before venturing west on your RV vacation through the San Juan Mountains to Durango , where activities include  kayaking or rafting on the Animas River  and taking the  historic Durango Silverton train  to the 9,300-foot mining town of Silverton . Crider recommends the  United Campground in Durango  located on the banks of the Animas River. 

Durango is also a jumping off point to see ancestral Pueblo cliff dwellings at  Mesa Verde National Park  and  Canyons of the Ancients National Monument , which contains the highest concentration of Native American archaeological sites in the U.S., including cliff dwellings, kivas, petroglyphs, and sacred springs.

NATIONAL PARK VACATIONS:   19 Best National Parks to Visit in the Spring

Head north from Durango on U.S. 550 (also known as the Million Dollar Highway ), one of the most scenic high-elevation RV road trip routes in the country. You’ll drive through forests filled with aspen and pine trees, visit Silverton, and go through the little town of Ouray —which has several of the best Colorado hot springs —before arriving at Montrose , which is a jumping off point for visits to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park . Stay at the  Ouray Riverside Resort , an 8,000-foot elevation campground with an onsite cafe, steakhouse, and Jeep rentals. 

4. Best RV Trips for Adults and Grown-Up Kids

Northern michigan lower peninsula – 4 stops, 150 miles .

Paige Bouma of  RV Trader  recommends an RV vacation in Michigan for adults and grown-up kids. “Michigan has so many state parks you can go to,” says Bouma, “and it offers a Recreation Passport you can use to see them all.”

SPLASH ZONE:   14 Best Indoor Water Park Resorts in the U.S.

The northern portion of Michigan’s lower peninsula is not only heavily forested, but also features beautiful white sand beaches and sand dunes at  Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore , a favorite Midwest road trip destination for families. The  Platte River Campground  offers RV sites and is close to the Riverside Canoe company , which offers canoe, kayak, tubing, and raft trips down the Platte. The resort town of Traverse City is nearby and known for its wineries and golf courses. 

From Sleeping Bear Dunes, one of the best RV destinations is two hours north along the Lake Michigan shoreline in Petoskey . Keep your eyes peeled for the state stone of Michigan, the Petoskey Stone, which are rounded pieces of fossilized coral that date back millions of years to when the area was covered by shallow seas.  Petoskey State Park  offers a long sandy beach on Lake Michigan, RV hookups, and plenty of hiking trails.

After your search for Petoskey Stones, step back in time at one of the most beloved Midwest family vacation destinations , charming  Mackinac Island . No vehicles are allowed on the island, so you’ll have to park your rig and take a ferry to visit. On the island you can enjoy horse and buggy rides, visit historical forts and museums, and even splurge with an overnight stay at  the Grand Hotel , incidentally one of the most kid-friendly family resorts in the country.

MAKE MEMORIES:   10 Best Places to Go with Kids This Year

Following your island adventure, set up basecamp at  Cheboygan State Park  on the sandy beaches of Lake Huron. Cheboygan offers RV sites as well as a teepee rental. 

5. Best RV Road Trip Route for Multigenerational Groups 

Boston to washington, d.c. – 4 stops, 460 miles.

Rae and Jason Miller, creators of  Getaway Couple , recommend Boston to Washington, D.C. , RV trips to please multiple generations. This four-stop multigenerational family vacation route is loaded with historical sites, interactive museums, and campgrounds perfect for large families to bond around the campfire. It doesn’t matter if the ages in your group range from toddler to grandparent; everyone will be pleasantly surprised by the activities on this RV vacation. 

NATION’S CAPITAL: The Best Things to Do in Washington, D.C., with Kids

Start your East Coast family vacation at  Wompatuck State Park  in Hingham, Massachusetts . Take a day trip to the city of Boston to visit the Boston National Historical Park , Paul Revere House , Boston Massacre Site , and Fort Independence . For lunch, be sure to grab some famous Boston staples like clam chowder or a lobster roll. 

Next, drive 215 miles south for a New York family vacation through the Big Apple. Stay at  Battle Row Campground  on Long Island (or  Croton Point Park Campground  on the Hudson River north of the city if you’d prefer to keep your RV out of New York City ). While you’re here, be sure to visit the Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site , the Van Cortlandt House Museum , and the Graffiti Hall of Fame . This mix of history will entertain every generation. 

Your next stop is less than 100 miles south in Philadelphia . Camp at the  Philadelphia South KOA  and take your family downtown to explore the city. Every generation will enjoy visiting the Liberty Bell , the Underground Railroad Museum , and recreating your own “Rocky” moment on the stairs of the Philadelphia Museum of Art .

GOOD SHOES: 10 Best Travel Shoes for Walking All Day Long

Continue another 140 miles south to Washington, D.C., one of the best family vacation spots in the U.S. and a perfect place to cap off your RV vacation.  Cherry Hill Park  is the closest campground to downtown D.C. and is well maintained. There are countless things to see and do in the nation’s capital , including snapping a family picture in front of the White House, visiting the Lincoln Memorial , and taking in a few Smithsonian museums , all of which are free to the public. 

6. Best RV Road Trip Route for Foodies

New orleans to key west – 4 stops, 1,800 miles.

For foodies, Maddi Bourgerie of  RVShare  says one of the best RV vacation ideas is an old-fashioned Southern comfort food tour that starts in New Orleans . Park your RV at  New Orleans RV Resort and Marina  (formerly Pontchartrain Landing) for a resort that’s right on the water and offers a free shuttle into the French Quarter. Once in the Big Easy, you ca experience authentic jambalaya at Jacques Imo’s Cafe and treat the whole family to classic sugar-dusted beignets at Cafe du Monde . (Pro-tip: Dip your beignet in a cup of chicory coffee or hot chocolate for the kids). 

CAMPING WITH KIDS: How to Plan Your First Family Camping Trip

Next up is Memphis for slow-smoked barbecue at Central BBQ . The Elvis Presley Boulevard RV Park  is two blocks from Graceland and only a couple of minutes’ drive from all of Memphis’ major attractions.

Then it’s on to Charleston for famous fried chicken at Martha Lou’s Kitchen . The milk-battered fried chicken paired with lima beans and okra stew is a fan-favorite stop on this Southern food RV trip.  Lake Aire Campground  has full-service RV sites and family-friendly activities such as fishing from a private lake.

The fourth stop on your RV vacation is Savannah , a must-see city for foodies . Located in Savannah’s historic district, The Olde Pink House Restaurant answers all your Southern food cravings with pan-seared jumbo lump crab cakes, fried green tomatoes, and mac and cheese jalapeno poppers. The  Savannah South KOA  is in Richmond Hill , a small town on the southwestern edge of the city.

FLORIDA FUN:   10 Best Florida Beach Resorts for Families

Complete your culinary journey in Key West for fresh mahi-mahi at Ocean Grill and Bar and delicious key lime pie at Kermit’s Key West Lime Shoppe . Stay at  Boyd’s Key West Campground right on the water near Mile Marker 5. If you’re an American literature buff, don’t miss Key West’s Hemingway Home & Museum .

7. Best RV Road Trip Route for History Buffs

Alabama civil rights tour – 3 stops, 140 miles.

The cities of Birmingham , Montgomery , and Selma were all major epicenters of the Civil Rights Movement. Each city has numerous historical sites, museums, and other attractions that should be part of every American family’s education .

CIVIL RIGHTS LEGACY: Why Your Family Should Visit The Legacy Museum (and Where Else to Go)

Start in Birmingham and head to the  Birmingham Civil Rights Institute  for an overview of the Civil Rights Movement, where families can experience a rendition of a 1950s segregated city, a Freedom Riders bus, and the jail cell door from behind which Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. penned his famous “Letter from Birmingham Jail.” Other important Birmingham sites include the Bethel Baptist Church , 16th Street Baptist Church , and Miles College . Support a Black-owned business at the Time Away RV Resort,  often used as a base camp for Civil Rights tours.

From Birmingham, head to Montgomery, the former home of Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King Jr., and other Civil Rights icons. Much of their history can be explored at the  Rosa Parks Library and Museum  as well as the  Dexter Parsonage Museum , former home of Dr. King. The  National Memorial for Peace and Justice  is the first national memorial to honor more than 4,400 African Americans killed by racial terrorist groups between 1877 and 1950. This solemn space is meant to allow people to gather and reflect on our nation’s long history of racial inequality. The  Montgomery KOA Campground  offers RV sites close to the historical locations.

SPRING FORWARD: 8 Cheap Spring Break Ideas for Families on a Budget

This educational RV road trip ends in Selma, best known for the Selma to Montgomery marches, beginning with “Bloody Sunday” on the Edmund Pettus Bridge on March 7, 1965. These marches were crucial to the eventual passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson. The act prohibited racial discrimination in voting, protecting the right to vote for racial minorities in the U.S. and especially in the American South.  Montgomery South RV Park  in Hope Hull, Alabama , has both RV sites and rental cabins.

8. Best RV Vacations for Mountain Scenery

Going-to-the-sun road in glacier national park, montana – 2 stops, 110 miles.

Completed in 1933,  Going-to-the-Sun Road  in Montana’s Glacier National Park offers some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in North America. Magnificent lakes line both ends of the road, including Lake McDonald on the west and the Saint Mary Lake on the east. “Right after the road opens in May or June, the drive is particularly scenic as melting snow creates numerous little waterfalls that splash onto the roadway,” notes GoRVing’s Jeff Crider.

OVERSEAS ADVENTURE: Why an Iceland Camper Rental Should Be Your Next Open-Road Adventure

Glacier National Park also has many trails leading to glacier-fed lakes and waterfalls. The highest point on Going-to-the-Sun Road is 6,646-foot Logan Pass . The road over the pass typically opens in late spring or early summer and closes with the first major snow in October or November. The  East Glacier KOA  in St. Mary offers RV and tent sites and is located one mile from the Glacier National Park entrance and the start of the Going-to-the-Sun Road. While Going-to-the-Sun Road can be driven in a single day, it’s best to allow at least two or three days to enjoy the scenery on your RV road trip. 

For an extended RV trip with additional lakes and glacier-covered mountain scenery, consider visiting Waterton Lakes National Park , which abuts Glacier National Park on the Canadian side of the border. Townsite Campground  is located on the water within the park and has drive-through RV sites with full hookups.

9. Best RV Destinations for Outdoorsy Families

National parks of the desert southwest – 6 stops, 800 miles .

This RV road trip includes stops at some of the most iconic sites of the American West, including the  South Rim of the Grand Canyon ,  Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park ,  Mesa Verde National Park ,  Arches National Park ,  Canyonlands National Park ,  Bryce Canyon National Park , and  Zion National Park . Activities include hiking, rock climbing, and horseback riding. Evening astromony talks are typically also offered at many of the parks during the summer months as well. 

SADDLE UP: 11 Best Dude Ranch Vacations in the U.S. for Families

First up on this RV vacation is the Grand Canyon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of those iconic U.S. tourist attractions every kid should visit before they grow up . The South Rim is open year-round and offers the most famous panoramic views.  Trailer Village RV Park  is the only RV campground with full hookups located within the national park.

From the Grand Canyon, head northeast to Monument Valley on the Arizona/Utah border. This sacred land is part of the Navajo Nation and known for its red sandstone buttes.  The View Hotel and Campground  has RV sites and premium furnished cabins with excellent views of the famous rock formations.

Next on your RV road trip route are the Pueblo cliff dwellings found in Colorado’s Mesa Verde National Park, which preserves indigenous archeological sites dating back at least 700 years.  Morefield Campground  offers RV sites within the park, some with full hookups, and kids will love the all-you-can-eat pancake breakfasts. 

Head back into Utah and set up camp in Moab as a home base for both Arches and Canyonlands national parks, where your family can enjoy outdoor adventures like rock climbing, canyoneering, rafting, mountain biking, and more.  Sun Outdoors Arches Gateway (formerly Moab Valley RV Resort) features both RV sites and rental accommodations.

HORSIN’ AROUND: 7 Kid-Friendly Arizona Dude Ranches with Something for Everyone in the Family

Explorations of southern Utah continue at Bryce Canyon National Park, known for the alien-shaped hoodoos in its red rock amphitheater.  Sunset Campground  is a national park campground located inside the park within hiking distance of both Sunset Point and Inspiration Point . This is a fantastic location for sleeping in the park and taking advantage of the nighttime star talks and constellation tours .

The final stop is Utah’s Zion National Park. This park features a spectacular canyon with hiking along (and in) the Virgin River.  Zion River Resort  has riverside RV sites and offers a number of family-friendly activities as well as educational and archeology programs. 

10. Best RV Vacation Ideas for Sports Fans

Division i college football road trip.

There’s something special about the U.S. college football environment. Each weekend in the fall, thousands flock to their respective sport palaces, set up camp for the weekend, cook out or tailgate, play games, and cheer on their favorite team. It’s this atmosphere that makes college football’s stadiums among the best RV destinations for sports fans. 

IT’S ALL INCLUDED: 12 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the World for Families

Traditionally college football games take place each Saturday, and at the largest stadiums RVs start arriving Friday night and stay until Sunday—giving you plenty of time to get to next week’s destination. The other benefit of traveling to college football games is it’s one of the most creative vacation ideas for teenagers because it allows you to sneak in a college tour on your RV trip. 

Instead of a single road trip route, here are four RV destinations known for their college football atmosphere.

University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, Michigan

Ann Arbor is a great college town to visit filled with restaurants, parks, and culture. More than 100,000 fans pack Michigan Stadium on football Saturdays. Ann Arbor Pioneer High School offers RV parking  and is located across the street from the stadium. Spots include a small area for tailgating (enough for 10 to 20 people). 

Clemson University – Clemson, South Carolina

College football is almost a religion in the Southeastern U.S., and the cozy college town of Clemson in the corner of South Carolina is home to three national championships. The  Clemson RV Park at The Grove  is a campground with full hookups just four miles from campus and features tailgate bands every Friday night, catered meals included with your spot, and shuttles to and from games. Clemson is also close to Lake Hartwell and plenty of outdoor activities. 

University of Nebraska – Lincoln, Nebraska

Memorial Stadium is conveniently located near downtown Lincoln , making it easy for families to explore the area before and after the game. On game day there are a number of kid-friendly events including the Unity Walk , where players and coaches walk through the sea of fans, and the Nebraska Marching Band rehearsal one hour before the game. RVs can camp overnight in a designated lot  beginning Friday evenings until Sunday morning. 

University of Oregon – Eugene, Oregon

The Oregon Ducks play in Autzen Stadium along the Willamette River. Camping in the university’s RV lot is organized by the Boy Scouts and offers spectacular mountain and water scenery. Scouts are on hand starting Friday evening to help you park, and RVs can stay until Sunday morning. A portion of the parking revenue goes to the scouts to support camps, camping equipment purchases, and leader training.

More from FamilyVacationist:

• 12 Best Hotel Booking Sites for Cheap Prices
• 17 Best Flight Booking Sites for Cheap Airfares
• 17 Best Vacation Rental Booking Sites for Families
• 10 Best Car Rental Booking Sites for Cheap Prices

10 best fall foliage train rides in the U.S. for 2024

13 ways to save money on the family vacation of your dreams

I’m in my international cruise-planning mom era—here are 5 itineraries I’m eyeing up

I stayed at a beachfront hotel in Miami away from the main tourist district—and loved it

familyvacationist

Royal Caribbean cruise guide: How to have the perfect family vacation at sea

Make the most of your Royal Caribbean experience with this guide for families.

7 family resorts that welcome babies in their kids clubs

These family resorts go above and beyond to make sure new parents can get some "me time" on vacation, too.

See you in the… light? I tried a lights-on tour of three Halloween Horror Nights houses at Universal Orlando

Before the fog rolls in, take a peek behind the scenes on this Halloween Horror Nights tour.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

13 Best Travel Trailers for Road Trips and Camping

Hit the open road and camp in comfort with the best travel trailers.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

With so many brands, sizes, and amenities to choose from, it can be difficult to know which travel trailer is right for your next adventure in the great outdoors . Paige Bouma, executive vice president of sales and operations of Trader Interactive, knows a thing or two about RV travel. She has been taking RV vacations with her family for years, often traveling for 30 weekends a year. According to Bouma, towable RVs (like travel trailers) are great for camping , and there are a number of choices to consider. "Families looking to experience the great outdoors have several choices when it comes to trailers they can tow behind their car, SUV, or pickup," she said. "The traditional travel trailer comes in a variety of lengths and weights, and provides a multitude of amenities and a sleeping capacity for any size family to go camping."

With this in mind, we've rounded up 13 of the best travel trailers so you can plan your next road trip . Whether you're a first-timer looking for tips to get started or a frequent traveler trying to decide on your next RV rental , this list includes fan favorites like Airstream, Winnebago, and Jayco travel trailers, ranging from luxury vehicles to small and lightweight campers.

1. Airstream Classic Smart Trailer

Airstream travel trailers are among the most luxurious, spacious, and advanced towable RVs. They say not to mess with a good thing, but Airstream's new and improved Classic Travel Trailer is an exception. This elegant and roomy travel trailer is best for long trips, with lots of space and innovative amenities, like a heated bathroom and handcrafted cabinetry. Now, this iconic trailer has smart-control technology, allowing you to adjust the lights, awning, and air-conditioning as well as monitor propane, battery, and tank levels from your phone. This trailer can be between 30 and 33 feet long and can sleep up to five people with four different floor plans. Airstream is currently working on more improvements for future RVs, including off-road capabilities and advanced electric vehicle compatibility.

2. Winnebago Micro Minnie

Winnebago travel trailers are beloved in the RV world, and the Winnebago Micro Minnie is one of their most popular options, even winning the RV News Top Lightweight Towable Trailers Award in 2021. This compact, seven-foot-wide trailer offers a number of floor plans to choose from, with features like a spacious kitchen with a sink, a double-door refrigerator, a microwave, and a cooktop. Each floor plan also has windows designed for cross ventilation. With a starting weight of 3,360 pounds , the Micro Minnie is the perfect tow for electric vehicle owners. It also comes solar-ready, with a spacious, walkable roof. With certain packages, the trailer even includes off-road tires, perfect for the boondock explorer. Once you've settled into your campground, take the fun outside with its patio speakers and a power awning featuring LED lighting.

3. Jayco Jay Flight

The Jayco Jay Flight has been a family favorite for years. This travel trailer has a large range of floor plans, offering options with luxurious kitchens featuring stainless steel appliances, comfortable seating, spacious lounge areas, and more. Jayco's elite package offers solar prep, which, depending on your rig, comes with corresponding batteries, inverters, and Go Power! kits for sidewall and roof-mount prep. It's important to keep in mind that certain floor plans may exceed an electric vehicle's towable weight limit. Jayco prides itself on its craftsmanship and construction so you know this trailer can handle any adventure you embark upon.

4. TAB Teardrop Camper

If you're looking for a small travel trailer, the TAB Teardrop Trailer might be the best choice for you. This nuCamp RV is perfect if you're traveling alone or with a partner. It is compact, but still has amenities such as a wet bath, a kitchen, and a dining area that converts to beds. Available with the TAB Teardrop Trailer is the Boondock Package, which includes everything for your off-roading needs, including the Boondock Aluminum Platform, aggressive off-road tires, heady duty entry door step, and much more. The Convenience Package comes with a solar roof package, perfect for electric vehicles.

5. Happier Camper Traveler

The new, lightweight Traveler trailer from Happier Camper has vintage vibes and flexible, modular seating to accommodate the needs of anyone hitting the road. This travel trailer has a floor grid and Adaptiv components so you can customize your space with areas for sleeping, dining, lounging, and more. Plus, it's towable by standard cars so you don't need a large SUV. The Happier Camper Traveler is 17 feet long with 85 square feet of walkable floor space — the layout is up to you, thanks to the modular design.

6. KZ Durango Half-Ton

The KZ Durango Half-Ton RV is a fifth wheel trailer that offers eight unique floor plans, complete with a washer and dryer, maple-glazed farmhouse-style carpentry, an electric fireplace, a double-door refrigerator, and so much more. KZ offers an "Off The Grid" package, which includes solar panels for their already solar-ready roof. The Durango Half-Ton is perfect for full-time traveling or a weekend getaway with the whole family.

7. Casita Spirit

As far as lightweight travel trailers go, the Casita Spirit is a great option for families on the go. This trailer can sleep three to five people, with dinettes that convert into double and single beds. The Spirit comes in two 17-foot models, while add-on options include roller shades, a furnace, and more. Casita offers a plethora of internal and external add-ons, including — but not limited to — solar panels, a surge protector, and an Anderson "No Sway" Distribution Hitch, as well as a maintenance tool kit to be used inside or outside the trailer.

8. Keystone Hideout

Keystone touts the Hideout as a perfect travel trailer for first-timers. The Hideout has several sizes and floor plans, and it comes with a three-year limited structural warranty, LTE and Wi-Fi antenna, tinted windows, high-quality kitchen appliances, and more. Most floorplans are towable by standard cars, however, the model's heft makes it durable to sustain off-road bumps and swerves. The Hideout features a walkable roof and multiple options for SolarFlex™ solar panels, providing high-quality energy great for electric vehicles.

9. Forest River Alpha Wolf

The lightweight Alpha Wolf trailer from Forest River's Cherokee line was named "Best in Show" by RV News in 2018. According to the Forest River site, the Cherokee Alpha Wolf "offers the best mix of floor plan diversity and top-shelf amenities while at the same time creating a tougher, lighter, better insulated shell." The interiors of this travel trailer look beautiful and modern while providing areas to cook, relax, and dine. Alpha offers multiple packages to personalize your trailer experience, including the Juice Package for all your solar needs.

10. Grand Design Reflection

If you're looking for a towable luxury RV with great value, the Reflection by Grand Design might be right for you. This trailer offers a beautifully designed kitchen, a spacious shower with a glass door, and more. The RV comes with a mandatory Solar Package, 4-Season Protection Package, Peace of Mind Package, and the Ultimate Power Package, with additional add-on packages available to make your Reflections RV experiences as comfortable as possible. This RV is great for owners of electric SUVs and for those who wish to go off-road.

11. Opus OP 15 Hybrid

Looking for a spacious, lightweight, off-road trailer? Then look no further than the Opus OP 15. This hybrid, family-friendly trailer comes fully loaded with a king-size bed, twin bunk beds, an indoor bathroom, a four-burner stove, off-road and alloy tires, and solar panels. The interior is decorated with bamboo cabinetry and features 6'6'' of headroom. The Opus OP 15 was designed specifically to be an off-road, off-grid getaway while remaining easy to use for families and first-timers.

12. Alto Series F2414

Alto's Series F2414 travel trailer is designed to make hitch traveling with an electric vehicle easier than ever before. The trailer comes packed with four beds that can be converted to dining/lounge areas, a full kitchen, a small bathroom, and furniture that can be moved for outdoor fun. It sleeps five comfortably, six with the purchase of an additional electric bed. The interior design takes some inspiration from European trailers while maintaining an all-American flair. Solar panels can be purchased for an additional cost. The F2414 is towable by most SUVs.

13. Polydrops P17A

If you're looking to travel in something high-tech that will undoubtedly turn heads, look no further than Polydrop's P17A1 trailer. This California-made vehicle is specifically engineered to be the most aerodynamic travel trailer on the market. Its unique design and lightweight frame lend it to unlimited possibilities. The P17A's minimalist design comes fully insulated with built-in solar panels, storage, built-in speakers, a kitchenette, an awning, a control panel (for LEDs, air conditioning, chargers, and more), and a full-size mattress. This trailer was made to work hand-in-hand with electric vehicles, with its design specifically created to use less electricity, allowing for more travel and less charging time. Though one of the smaller trailers on this list, the P17A1 is sure to impress even the most traditional trailer travelers.

Related Articles

• Credit cards
• View all credit cards
• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
• Personal finance
• View all personal finance
• Small business
• Small business guide
• View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

5 Great RV Road Trip Routes in the United States

Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who compensate us when you take certain actions on our website or click to take an action on their website. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

RV camping is one of the most exciting and rewarding ways to explore the United States. Few modes of transport allow travelers to cover so much distance for little money while coming face-to-face with the nation's natural treasures.

We've come up with five route suggestions for folks looking to hit the road and tour America's most beautiful natural preserves.

» Learn more: The beginner’s guide to renting an RV

California loop

Distance: 2,226 miles

California offers a cornucopia of natural beauty, from towering redwood forests to dusty deserts to breathtaking seascapes and shorelines. This 14-destination loop will take RV travelers across the entire state. While we start our journey just northeast of San Diego and go in a clockwise loop, you can use any location as your starting point. We've highlighted some of the top nature and camping destinations across California, but feel free to improvise as there is no shortage of parks and preserves in the Golden State.

A. Anza-Borrego State Park

B. Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park.

C. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.

D. Big Basin Redwoods State Park

E. Point Reyes.

F. Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.

G. Klamath National Forest.

H. Shasta National Forest.

I. Lake Tahoe.

J. Grover Hot Springs.

K. Yosemite National Park.

L. John Muir Wilderness.

M. Death Valley.

N. Joshua Tree National Park.

Rocky Mountains

Distance: 2,826 miles

The Rocky Mountains stretch over 3,000 miles from New Mexico to British Columbia and offer a life's worth of exploration opportunities. You could spend weeks at Yellowstone and Grand Teton alone. We've chosen just a few of the more popular destinations and suggest you set aside a hefty chunk of time for this trip. Again, the locations are ordered clockwise, but you can jump in at the most convenient destination. We begin in southern Idaho.

A. Sawtooth National Forest, Idaho.

B. Craters of the Moon Monument, Idaho.

C. National Elk Refuge, Wyo.

D. Grand Teton National Park, Wyo.

E. Yellowstone National Park, Mont.

F. Glacier National Park, Mont.

G. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, Mont.

H. Devil's Tower National Monument, Wyo.

I. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colo.

J. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colo.

K. Mesa Verde National Park, Colo.

L. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colo.

Distance: 2,332 miles

The classic American road trip, Route 66 spans from Chicago to Los Angeles. Unlike the other trips we list here, Route 66 is less a nature excursion and more a nostalgic cruise along a collection of museums, diners and roadside attractions. Route 66 has hundreds of potential stops; we've chosen just a few. If you plan on taking Route 66 both away from home and back toward it, remember to leave plenty of attractions for the return trip.

A. Chicago, Ill.

B. Route 66 Association Hall of Fame and Museum, Ill.

C. Lincoln's Tomb, Ill.

D. St. Louis, Mo.

E. Mark Twain National Forest, Mo.

F. Galena Mining and Historical Museum, Kan.

G. Route 66 Vintage Iron Motorcycle Museum, Okla.

H. Oklahoma Route 66 Museum, Okla.

I. Palo Duro State Park, Texas

J. Cadillac Ranch, Texas

K. Route 66 Auto Museum, N.M.

L. Red Rock State Park, N.M.

M. Petrified Forest National Park, Ariz.

N. Meteor Crater, Ariz.

O. The Grand Canyon, Ariz.

P. Los Angeles, Calif.

New England loop

Distance: 1,515 miles

A road trip around New England offers a balanced blend of verdant forests, rocky seascapes, colonial history and gorgeous seaside towns. We start our loop in upstate New York, heading east and north into the parks of upper New England. After Acadia, head south along the coast for breathtaking ocean views. A collection of historic New England towns (Salem, Cape Cod and more) will provide a break from the greenery and a lesson in American history. Pick up the route at the location closest to you.

A. Adirondack State Park, N.Y.

B. Green Mountain National Forest, Vt.

C. White Mountain National Forest, N.H.

D. Allagash Wilderness Waterway State Park, Maine

E. Acadia National Park, Maine

F. Minute Man National Historic Park, Mass.

G. Salem, Mass.

H. Boston, Mass.

I. Cape Cod, Mass.

J. Jamestown, R.I.

K. Fort Adams State Park, R.I.

L. Mystic Seaport, Conn.

M. Hammonasset State Park, Conn.

N. Fort Hale Park, Conn.

O. Ferris Lake, N.Y.

Distance: 5,776 miles

The Southern states have plenty to offer in terms of nature, culture and relaxation. A satisfying southern RV expedition will sample forests, beaches and everything in between. This loop starts in historic Savannah, drops down into Florida and meanders along the Southern coast before launching back east into Tennessee and Virginia. The last leg of the journey comprises a series of beaches for a proper cool down at the end of a long journey. Of course, you can begin anywhere along the route and eventually end up back where you started.

A. Savannah, Ga.

B. Ocala National Forest, Fla.

C. Big Cypress National Preserve, Fla.

D. Everglades National Park, Fla.

E. Apalachicola National Forest, Fla.

F. Blackwater River State Park, Fla.

G. De Soto National Forest, Fla.

H. New Orleans, La.

I. Kisatchie National Forest, La.

J. Houston, Texas

K. Sam Houston National Forest, Texas

L. Ouachita National Forest, Ark.

M. Ozark National Forest, Ark.

N. Memphis, Tenn.

O. Nashville, Tenn.

P. Cherokee National Forest, Tenn.

Q. Chattahoochee National Forest, Ga.

R. George Washington National Forest, Va.

S. Virginia Beach, Va.

T. Myrtle Beach, S.C.

U. Hilton Head, S.C.

on Wells Fargo's website

on American Express' website

on Citibank's application

Unlimited 3 points per dollar spent at gas stations.

3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations. Terms apply.

4% cash back on gas and EV charging purchases (both at Costco and other gas stations) on up to $7,000 of spending a year, then 1% back.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

How to plan a camper trip around Australia

Sep 11, 2024 • 8 min read

Plan your motor home travels around Australia with this guide to routes, seasons and vehicles. Benjamin Probert/Getty Images

There’s no better way to experience the best of Australia than on a road trip  in a camper through its stunning and wild natural landscapes.

Australia’s National Highway 1 may not be as storied as America’s Route 66, but a “lap of the map”  – via endless surf beaches, koala-dotted forests, flaming red deserts and awe-inspiring starry skies – will be life-defining. If you haven’t got time for the whole shebang, you’ll have just as much fun exploring one coast (the east coast or west?) or even a smaller region.

While there’s buckets of information out there from travelers who’ve gone before, here are the key things to consider before you hit the road for your motor home adventure in Australia.

On a short break, focus on one region

If you have only a few weeks then you’ll need to stick to one region. If you want to spend more time communing with nature and less time driving then you might want to target a small region. 

For a mix of beaches , mountains and waterfalls head to northern NSW ( Byron Bay and around) and southern Queensland (with an incredible coast and the lush Scenic Rim region). For something similar but with emptier roads, check out the coast southwest of Perth around Margaret River and inland to the old forests of Pemberton. Tasmania is also very driveable in two weeks with mountains, beaches and delicious produce everywhere.

Flying into Darwin would take you to some of the most incredible scenery in Australia around Litchfield , Kakadu and down to Uluru and back. From Adelaide , there are options to explore the coast, wineries and wetlands south, or head into the ancient interior of Ikara-Flinders Ranges via the wineries of the Clare Valley.

The coastal roads from Melbourne to Sydney through southern NSW are long and windy, and the geography doesn’t vary quite as much, but the weather is temperate and there are many family-friendly hamlets with good camping sites. Picking up a camper in Cairns means exploring the lush Atherton Tablelands, and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Daintree National Park , managed by its traditional owners the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people (learn more on a Dreamtime Walk at Mossman Gorge ) and the Great Barrier Reef . 

But this is just a snapshot of options . With more time you can join a couple of these itineraries together and cruise on – say from Adelaide to Darwin, or from Sydney up to Cairns via Byron Bay in one trip.

Allow at least three months for a "lap of the map"

Some travelers make it their mission to circumnavigate the whole of Australia, and you’ll find plenty of blogs online with people sharing their tips for tackling the project over anything from six weeks to a year. 

Three months is a good minimum to dedicate to the trip. It gives you enough time for detours and longer stops at places you fall in love with, but you can also manage costs (the longer you’re away the more you spend, and there's greater chance that mechanical wear and tear will blow out your budget). 

May to October is the best time for a camper trip in Australia

Assuming you have only 12 weeks, the best time to go will be during Australia’s cooler months (May to October). In the north, you’ll be traveling in the dry season (any other time of year and a lot of the roads are impassable). Down south, it’ll be cool (cold even, with potential for snow on the Great Dividing Range) in southern NSW and Victoria – but this means campsites and caravan parks won’t be as busy.

December and January are best avoided. These months are school holidays, which means contending with domestic travelers on big summer camping trips. It's also a time with sweltering days where your legs stick to the car seat and the steering wheel is too hot to touch (although this could happen anytime from November to March).

If you’re traveling on a working holiday visa you’ll be able to stop and take up job opportunities wherever they find you – or if you’re on a self-funded gap year and can spend even longer traveling around Australia in your campervan – then you will be traveling in all seasons. Just make sure that you're not attempting to visit the north outside the dry season. 

Buying a camper can be cost-effective

Some travelers choose to pull some savings together to buy a vehicle for their once-in-a-lifetime campervan trip in Australia. This can prove cost-effective if you get the right vehicle and look after it, making it possible to sell it at the end of your adventure (with some anticipated depreciation for the extra mileage). As well as the cost of the actual van, you’ll need to factor in other expenses like registration (“rego”); insurance; a roadworthiness certificate (RWC); repairs needed to get one to resell later; and equipping the vehicle with any extras you might want such as a campfire oven, outdoors shower, bikes or canoes.

Rental firms offer a large range of motor homes and vans

Another option is to rent a vehicle from a reputable hire company. In addition to international chains like Avis, there are Australia/NZ-specific ones to check out like Apollo, Maui and Britz.

You’ll have a large range of vehicles to choose from whether you’re looking for a top-of-the-line motor home/RV or very minimal van set-up or roof-top tent. Age and mileage are things to take into account when choosing between companies. The less expensive brands – usually marketed to backpackers – have older vehicles. Vans with Cheapa Campa , for example, are four years on fleet and older. 

You’ll need everyone who’s planning to drive to be at the vehicle collection with their driver’s license, plus a credit card (not a debit card) and an upfront security deposit to cover any potential damage. The best advantage of using a rental company is being able to choose a one-way trip: you could drive from Melbourne to Cairns or Perth to Broome (should you decide to tackle one coast or the other) without having to backtrack. 

Peer-to-peer campervan rentals are usually well equipped

Just as there is AirBnB for homestays, the Australian company Camplify (now also in the UK and Spain) enables campervan owners to rent to travelers directly. The costs are more affordable, and are usually well set up for an off-grid camping adventure. Some come with solar panels and decent batteries to run devices like fridges and even satellite broadband, so you won’t find yourself without any internet signal in the middle of nowhere.

When booking you get the option of adding extra insurance to reduce the “excess” you pay out of pocket should you have an accident. The only downsides: you have to return the camper from where you borrowed it, and owners can refuse your request based on your age or planned itinerary leaving the door open for discriminatory decisions. Fortunately there are loads of campers available, so you can take your pick.

Be realistic about how much space and comfort you need

Discuss what style of camper you want (and can afford) with your travel crew. Don’t forget to consider things like how you’ll manage if you don’t have showers, a camp kitchen, or toilets on board: you’ll need to budget to stay in places with facilities and (if you’re in for the long-haul time) to stop to do laundry occasionally. You also need to plan for disposing of your waste and storing things carefully overnight to ensure your campsite is not raided by local wildlife. 

Living in a small space can be challenging, (especially if one of your party is not very good at putting things away), while long drives, heat, and discomfort, can all take their toll. Consider honestly whether an RV vacation is the right trip for you before you invest in buying or hiring a motor home for a long trip. You are not going to be napping with a view of the ocean every day and some days you’ll be on the road for long stretches – Australia is big.

Get breakdown cover and download useful apps before departure

As well as adequate travel insurance to cover your vehicle and any extras, it’s a good idea to join a road users' association like the RACV or NMRA for roadside assistance in case of a breakdown.

There are also some excellent apps to help you on the road. Download them and make the most of them when you’ve got data (there are plenty of places in Australia without mobile signal).

• Wikicamps is good for free or low-cost campsites
• CamperMate includes free and paid campsites as well as facilities you will need
• Hipcamp directs you to secluded spots on private property where you can pay to camp for the night.
• Fuel Map Australia directs you to the nearest petrol stop (although current fuel prices are not reliable)
• The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) app is a must-have for local forecasts – and potential weather warnings.

Whether you’re going solo, with friends, or taking your family on a special bucket-list trip, it’s time to get planning .

Explore related stories

Aug 23, 2024 • 7 min read

There’s nothing like hitting the road in an RV or camper van – these are the best destinations around the world for an RV road trip.

Sep 16, 2024 • 5 min read

Sep 14, 2024 • 9 min read

Sep 15, 2024 • 9 min read

Sep 15, 2024 • 11 min read

Sep 15, 2024 • 5 min read

Sep 15, 2024 • 7 min read

Sep 14, 2024 • 8 min read

Sep 14, 2024 • 4 min read

672 Wine Club

• Motorcycles
• Car of the Month
• Destinations
• Men’s Fashion
• Watch Collector
• Art & Collectibles
• Vacation Homes
• Celebrity Homes
• New Construction
• Home Design
• Electronics
• Fine Dining
• Benchmark Wines
• Brian Fox Art
• Disneyland Resort
• Ka La’I Wakiki Beach
• Kalamazoo Grill
• Raffles Hotels & Resorts
• Sports & Leisure
• Health & Wellness
• Best of the Best
• The Ultimate Gift Guide

The 16 Best Travel Trailers for Camping and Road-Tripping Adventures

Vehicles that will allow you to feel right at home, no matter where you are..

Senior Staff Writer

Bryan Hood's Most Recent Stories

Fore lexus and malbon’s new suv is here for serious golfers, this barely driven aston martin valkyrie could fetch $3 million at auction.

• Ram’s First All-Electric Pickup Truck Will Go Into Production Later This Year
• Share This Article

Traveling no longer means having to step foot in a frenzied airport. In fact, there’s never been a better time to go camping. With the right travel trailer, you can easily leave the city behind without having to deal with anyone other than your nearest and dearest. Today’s featured-packed luxury caravans are nothing like those you were ferried around in as a kid, either. Not only do they look good, but they’re packed with enough premium features that you’ll feel right at home, no matter where you are.

We’re also at the point where there’s a trailer for practically every kind of camper, regardless of what vehicle they drive (including the most notorious EV out there, the  Tesla Cybertruck ). Before picking yours, you’ll need to identify what kind of travel trailer will best meet your camping needs, though. If you’re in the market for luxury caravan, there are three options to consider:

Types of Travel Trailers

Classic travel trailer.

The classic travel trailer has been the go-to pick for adventurers and families for decades for a reason. Stretching anywhere from 20 to 30 feet in length, these vehicles cram in everything you need while you’re away from home, including a bedroom, kitchenette, dining area that can be converted into another sleeping area, and a bathroom. You will need a full-size SUV or heavy-duty truck for towing and a power source once you get to your destination—although solar-assisted power systems may allow for temporary off-the-grid operation—but if you can find both you’re ready to camp in comfort.

Pros: Comes equipped with everything you need and can sleep a large group of people Cons: You’ll need something to tow it and keep it running.

Fifth Wheel

The Fifth Wheel is like a standard trailer, only bigger and better. These mammoth vehicles can stretch up to 45 feet in length and have a hitch that mounts onto the center of the bed of the towing vehicle (which makes for a smoother and more comfortable ride). All that space is put to good use too. Your average fifth wheel is likely to include full-size kitchen, a full-size dining and entertainment area, a full-size bedroom or two, and a full-size bathroom. What more could you need on a camping trip, aside from a power source to keep everything running?

Pros: So well-stocked that they are basically smooth-riding homes on wheels. Cons: You’ll need something really big to tow it and off-the-grid functionality with be limited at best.

Micro Trailer

As the name implies, micro trailers are just like standard travel trailers only smaller. Much smaller, in fact, with few measuring more than 14 feet end to end. The pint-size footprint (and low curb weight) of these caravans means that they’re usually only large enough to sleep two adults, and some key features, like a kitchenette or bathroom, are either done away completely with or moved to the outside of the vehicle. What they lack in features, they more than make up for in convenience. Not only are micro campers easier to maneuver and park, but they can even towed by smaller vehicles like a crossover or even an EV.

Pros: Easier to maneuver than larger caravans and can be towed by a greater range of vehicles. Cons: Can rarely sleep more than two adults and may lack features that some consider vital.

With all this in mind, here are 16 travel trailers from the ultra-luxurious (Living Vehicle HD24) to the off-road-ready (Mammoth Overland Extinction Level Event) that you’ll want to take on your next road trip.

Our Best Travel Trailer Picks

Best overall: living vehicle hd24, best for luxury lovers: bowlus endless highways performance edition, best for off-road enthusiasts: mammoth overland extinction level event, best to live in: airstream globetrotter, best for entertaining: w2 romotow t8, best for going off-the-grid: escapod topo2, best for tech obsessives: retreat cabin and ozxcorp’s erv, best for stylish trips: eriba touring 820, best for families: land ark drake, best for ev owners: pebble flow, best for cybertruck owners: living vehicle cybertrailer, best for beginners: colorado teardrops boulder, best for couples: hunter nature raptor xc.

• Best for Design Obessives: X-Cabin300

Best for Roughing It: Taxa Mantis

Best under 5,000 pounds: happier camper hc1.

If you want a better understanding of how far travel trailers have come over the decades, just look at the Living Vehicle lineup. The Santa Barbara-based company’s boxy trailers are basically mini apartments you can take with you on the road. Our favorite might be the new HD24, which is far from the company’s biggest offering, but comes with all the amenities you could need at the campground—and then some.

The all-electric model, which starts at $299,995, may measure only 24 feet, but its minimalist interior still has more than enough for a bedroom, kitchen, entertainment area, and a bathroom with a dedicated shower. One particularly clutch feature is a five-by-eight-foot multi-purpose space that can be used as an office, guest room, or laundry room. If that wasn’t enough, the top-of-the-line Pro variant has a solar-assisted power system that can keep the trailer running for up to a month off the grid.

Special Features:   —Trailer can be configured to include a laundry room, office, or guest room. —Interior has a clean minimalist look and comes packed with premium amenities. —Range-topping Pro version’s power system produces enough energy for 30 days of off-the-grid living,

It may not be the most famous shiny caravan maker—that would be Airstream—but Bowlus is the company that gave us the first riveted travel trailer. The company, which was revived in 2014, knows not to mess with a good thing, so its well-regarded trailers—like our favorite, the  Endless Highways Performance Edition —look just like those it produced in the 1930s, only bigger and with better materials (think: alclad aluminum for the exterior and birchwood for the interior).

Despite its classic look, the $225,000 trailer has all the conveniences you expect in 2022, including heat and air-conditioning systems, a WiFi modem and plenty of outlets for charging all your smart devices. Best of all, though, might be a lithium iron phosphate that gives you the ability to live off the grid for two peaceful weeks. If you’re an animal lover, there’s also the  Terra Firma , which features a bunch of Fido-friendly features like a built-in food bowl, pet bed and remote temperature control system.

Special Features:  —Thee’s a double-sided indoor galley and an outdoor cooking area with electric and propane outlets. —The hotel-style shower has teak flooring and seating. —Lithium iron phosphate power system can keep the entire trailer running for up to two weeks.

Mammoth Overland’s latest model is a burly off-road trailer designed to withstand anything it encounters in nature. The appropriately named Extinction Level Event (ELE) rides on a set of chunky all-terrain tires and has an angular aluminum body reinforced with steel armor and skid plates. If that doesn’t sound like enough, you can upgrade to Level 3 bullet-proof armor. There’s also a built-in bear spray system too, for added security. The ELE, which starts at $67,000, is pretty compact since it’s a tear-drop trailer, but it can comfortably sleep two and has an integrated workstation inside its cabin. There’s also a swing-out kitchenette in the back for cooking.

Special Features:   —Comes with a built-in bear spray system and is available with bullet-proof armor. —Despite its compact size, the interior cabin still has room for a built-in workstation. —The swing-out kitchenette isn’t big, but has everything you need to cook a delicious meal.

One brand leaps to mind when most of us think about travel trailers—Airstream. Its iconic aluminum-sided caravans have been instrumental in popularizing road trips and  camping  in the US for decades. One need only look at the company’s  Globetrotter  model to see why: In addition to looking beautiful, the silver-covered caravan is packed with creature comforts to keep you traveling comfortably. It’s not the brand’s largest model—that would be the flagship  Classic —but it’s available with one of six different floor plans, each of which has room for a spacious entertainment area (that can sleep up to four adults).

Inside you’ll find a full-featured kitchen, half-bathroom, shower and sizable bedroom with either a queen-sized bed or two twins. As you would expect from Airstream, the amenities are top-rate, too, like Franke faucets in the kitchen and bathroom, stainless steel appliances, Quietstream climate control system and multiple LG LED TVs. The Globetrotter starts at $120,000. If it doesn’t fit the bill, the brand has plenty of other models to choose from, including collaboration editions like the  extra-homey Pottery Barn Edition  or their  ultra-rare Supreme edition .

Special Features: —There are different floor plans to choose from, each of which features a full kitchen, half bathroom and dedicated shower. —The Quietstream climate control system barely makes a peep, even when the heater or A/C is running. —A built-in canopy provides shade when you want to spend time outside.

Good things come to those who wait. More than a decade after it was first announced, the Romotow T8 is finally available to order. The 30.5-foot caravan, which was designed by New Zealand-based architecture and design firm W2, has two main components—a fixed chassis and a smaller living space that fits just inside of it. When the $268,500 trailer is parked, the cabin slides out at the touch of a button and can be rotated 90 degrees like a swiveling USB stick. When rotated like this, the hydraulic-powered chassis can then be used as a patio. While this unique design may be the vehicle’s main selling point, its interior cabin comes with all the features you need and has enough room for six adults.

Special Features:   —Unique rotating design is unlike anything else currently on the trailer market. —The living area is large enough to sleep up to six adults. — Hydraulic patio comes with an integrated deck set.

The  Escapod Topo2  is a trailer for anyone looking to take their camping trip off road with minimal fuss. The brand’s update of the classic teardrop trailer is an off-road-friendly model without any of the bulk. Unlike most of the trailers on this list, Escapod’s bedroom and kitchen area are separated from one another. The dedicated sleeping area has room for a queen-size mattress and is equipped with a stargazer window so you can really take in the peace and quiet of the great outdoors. The galley, meanwhile, is only accessible from outside the $39,500 trailer, but has ample counter space for meal prep and cooking. Both sections get their power from a VPR 4EVER lithium ion battery with some solar panels to help keep things running smoothly and efficiently.

Special Features: —Exterior is made from a single-piece of composite fiberglass that is rugged and weather-resistant. —Laser-cut tube steel frame should last for years. —Bedroom’s stargazer window offers up a beautiful view of your surroundings.

It was only a matter of time until the  electric revolution  made its way to the world of trailers and campers.  Retreat Caravan and OzXcorp’s ERV  is a rugged trailer that also happens to run entirely on battery power. Roof-mounted solar panels provide juice for a 14.3-kWh lithium battery that keeps the trailer’s many appliances running. And while the trailer is perfectly equipped for some off-road fun, thanks to a specially tuned suspension and all-terrain tires, it also packs all of the comforts of a luxe hotel room inside, including a bathroom, spacious seating area and master bedroom suite with a king-sized bed and closets. But the true highlight may be the $75,000 caravan’s full-size kitchen, which features an induction cooktop, fridge and washing machine. There’s also a Weber electric barbecue and slow cooker for making your meals outdoors.

Special Features: —Solar panels and 14.3-kWh battery power the trailer and let you go off grid. —A specially tuned suspension and large all-terrain tires let you go off-road. —The primary bedroom has enough room for a king-size bed and its own closets.

Are you looking for an aluminum-sided trailer that looks like more than just another Airstream or Bowlus’s rip-off? If so, the  Eriba Touring 820  might fit the bill. The company’s top-of-the-line caravan updates the classic silver bullet look with a retro-futuristic shape and details. Even more impressive, though, is the 27-foot-trailer’s interior. The company has packed it full of luxury amenities like a sizable, leather-covered lounge area (that can be converted into a bed), customizable mood lighting and a surprisingly fashionable bathroom. The true highlight, though, is a bedroom with a large panoramic window that offers up a gorgeous views of your surroundings. That’s good, too, since you might not actually want to leave the $88,500 trailer.

Special Features: —The kitchen has a mini wine cellar for keeping your best bottles at the ready. —The leather-upholstered entertainment area can be converted into an additional sleeping area at night. —Adjustable mood lighting will help you feel at home no matter where you are.

Almost more of a portable house than a trailer, the  Land Ark Drake  basically lets you take all the comforts of home on the road. The gigantic, yet stylish, two-level, 357-square-feet trailer can comfortably sleep seven adults. Stark and modern on the outside, the trailer features an equally clean white-washed pine and black metal decorated interior. Across its two floors, it has room for a full-sized kitchen, living room and bathroom (which includes a bathtub), along with two loft bedrooms and an office which can also be converted to a sleeping area. Its $139,000 starting price may sound a lot for a trailer, but for a two-story house on wheels it’s not that bad.

Special Features: —The two-level design means you have 357-square-feet of space. —Downstairs bathroom includes a tub for when you need to take a relaxing soak. —It has a primary bedroom and two loft-style sleeping areas.

There are plenty of EV-friendly travel trailers on the market at this point, but none are nicer to an electric powertrain than the Pebble Flow, which starts at $109,000. The futuristic vehicle is available with an optional propulsion that includes two electric motors—one situated on each wheel—to help make sure its 6,200-pound weight isn’t eating up all your battery-powered vehicle’s range. That’s far from the Flow’s only forward-thinking feature though. The trailer also comes with an “Instacamp” system that can be used to park the vehicle and set up camp (which includes leveling out the vehicle, deploying its staircase, and turning on the lights). The unique feature can also be triggered remotely via Pebble’s smartphone app.

Special Features:   —An optional propulsion system means it can even be towed by EVs. —Unique “Instacamp” system allows you to park the vehicle remotely via the company’s smartphone app. — Solar-assisted battery pack produces enough power for a week of off-the-grid living.

Elon Musk has been promising camping accessories for the Tesla Cybertruck since the get-go, but any official camper shell or trailer is likely years away at this point. Fortunately, Living Vehicle, the maker of our current favorite caravan, has stepped in to fill the void. The company has just unveiled the CyberTrailer, a new model with a design inspired by the battery-powered pickup. The caravan is almost certainly the most striking entry on this list, for better or for worse, but it also has a solar-assisted power system that produces more than enough juice to keep the entire vehicle running off the grid. More importantly, for Cybertruck (and other EV) owners, it also allows the trailer to be used as a mobile charging station for any battery-powered vehicle or plug-in hybrid.

Special Features: —A bold design inspired by Tesla’s pickup that also offers excellent aerodynamic performance. —A solar-assisted system that will keep the trailer and all its features running off-the-grid. —Can be towed by pickups and SUVs other than the Cybertruck, including other EVs.

There are EV-friendly trailers and then there’s  Colorado Teardrops’s Boulder . Not only is the company’s latest designed to be towed by a battery-powered SUV or truck, it can also charge your EV’s battery. That ability comes courtesy a 75-kWh lithium-ion battery pack with a built-in DC fast charger that will give you some much needed peace of mind out on the open road. At the very least, it gives you the freedom to come up with a route centered around sights instead of charging stations. Aside from this very vital feature, the compact caravan has everything two adults and two children need to live off the grid for a for a few days, including a comfortable queen-sized mattress, two bunk beds (for the kids), an enclosed kitchenette and an optional climate control system. The $55,000 trailer also comes in a variety of two-tone color schemes that all look pretty sharp.

Special Features: —Doesn’t just ease the burden on your EV’s battery; it can charge it, too. —A unique bunk-bed design creates room for four people to sleep (two adults and two children). —The enclosed kitchenette has plenty of counter space.

A big trailer can be a godsend on the campground, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends. The problem, of course, is getting the hulking vehicle there. No matter how experienced the driver, maneuvering a large caravan can be very tricky. Luckily there are trailers like  Hunter Nature’s Raptor XC . The brand’s angular model looks compact but features a pull-out section that just about doubles the size of its interior. When it’s fully extended you’ll have more than enough room for a dedicated living area, kitchen and bedroom. This will come in handy if there’s more than two in your traveling party, too. That’s because the $44,000 trailer’s entertainment area can easily be converted into an additional sleeping area at night.

Special Features: —An expanding segment turns this trailer into a multi-room cabin. —The bedroom has a large skylight so you can see the stars at night. —A spacious lounge can be converted into an additional sleeping area if you need more room.

Best for Design Obsessives: X-Cabin300

Silver trailers don’t all need to be bullet-shaped as nice as the classic Airstream may look. Just take a gander at the X-Cabin300. The all-aluminum vehicle has a boxy shape that looks both classic and modern. The Japanese-made caravan is compact, but comes with four different interior layouts designed to meet your varied needs (it can even be used as a food truck). The $50,000 trailer is smaller than most—it measures just seven feet tall, seven feet wide, and 15 feet long—and only tips the scales at 1,650 pounds, which means a compact SUV can even tow it. 

Special Features:   —A refreshing spin on the classic all-aluminum travel trailer. —Available with four different interior layouts. —Small and light enough to be towed by a compact SUV.

It can be hard to find a trailer that fits everyone’s needs, but the  Taxa Mantis  comes close. Its no-nonsense design means it fits with nearly anyone’s style. Thanks to a pop-up roof section, ingenious use of space and plenty of storage compartments, the Mantis has all the room you and your friends and family need to camp in comfort, which can be crucial on longer trips. It’s also got all the necessary features, including a bathroom with a built-in shower, water heater, kitchenette and 8,000 BTU air conditioner. The trailer, which starts at $46,000, is ideal for off-roading, but there’s a  special Overland edition  if you want something even more rugged.

Special Features: —A pop-up roof means you don’t have to sleep in the kitchen if you don’t want to. —There’s a built-in water heater and climate control system with a 8,000 BTU air conditioner. —It comes with a built-in canopy for outdoor hangouts.

Imagine if you didn’t need a truck or SUV to tow your trailer. You don’t if the caravan in question is Happier Camper’s compact  HC1 . The Los Angeles-based outfit’s smallest model is as light as they come, with a dry weight of just 1,100 pounds, meaning it can be towed by practically any car, even a modern-day Mini Cooper. It features a semi-modular interior designed by Adaptiv that can be customized to fit your camping style—components snap in like Legos—with either a full kitchen or enough sleeping room for up to five people. You can even add solar panels if you want to go off the grid. The $34,450 trailer’s old-school design is also sure to stand out on practically any campground. Even better, no pickups needed.

Special Features: —At only 1,100 pounds, it can be towed by just about any car. —The semi-modular floor plan allows you to arrange the interior to accommodate your camping style. —The larger rear hatch opens up space when you are entertaining.

Read More On:

Review: Bentley’s Opulent Bentayga EWB Azure V8 SUV Is a Surprisingly Agile Beast

This Porsche 911 Restomod Is a ‘Retro Hypercar.’ Here’s What to Know.

Meet the Wine Club That Thinks Differently.

Receive editor-curated reds from boutique California producers four times a year.

Give the Gift of Luxury

Latest Galleries in Cars

The Bentley Bentayga EWB Azure V8 in Photos

How the Aston Martin Vanquish Redefined the Grand Tourer—With an Assist From James Bond

More from our brands, how to watch emmys 2024 red carpet looks & what to know, ufc 306 at sphere pulls in record $22m for ufc, sphere, kamala harris to attend los angeles fundraiser on sept. 29, new york supreme court throws out lawsuit accusing helen frankenthaler foundation of exploiting the late artist’s legacy, the best yoga mats for any practice, according to instructors.

• Books & Merch
• Gear We Use
• National & State Parks
• Best RV Campgrounds in New Hampshire
• Best RV Campgrounds in NC Mountains
• Best Florida Beach RV Campgrounds
• South Dakota
• The Great Lakes
• Campers Swear By This Portable Device That Keeps Dogs Safe -The Best Portable Dog Fence for Camping (2024)
• Mosquitos and bugs
• Camping Clothes
• Camping Gifts
• Camping Internet
• 5 Best RV Backup Cameras for RV & Trailer
• 7 Best Screen Tents for Camping (2024)
• Best RV Campgrounds in California
• 5 Best Key West RV Parks
• 9 Best RV Campgrounds in New Jersey
• Camping Reservations
• Campground Comparisons
• Cheap or FREE RV Camping Sites
• Best RV Campground Memberships & Clubs
• Boondocking 101
• Boondocking Adventures
• RV Internet
• What Do Flamingos and Upside Down Pineapples Mean?
• Where to Find FREE or Cheap RV Sites Camping
• RV Winter Camping
• RV Show List for 2024
• 17 Best Camper Vans 2024 (New Class B RVs Available!)

Are These the Best RV Road Trips in the U.S.?

We’re always trying to bring you great routes to travel, but we just came across a list of what just may be the best rv road trips in the u.s..

• 1 We’re always trying to bring you great routes to travel, but we just came across a list of what just may be the best RV road trips in the U.S.
• 2 National Parks & Highway 12 (Salt Lake City to Grand Canyon)
• 3 The Blues Highway (Nashville to New Orleans)
• 4 Pacific Coast Highway (California)
• 5 Pacific Coast Scenic Byway (Oregon)
• 6 The Overseas Highway: Miami to Key West of U.S. Highway 1
• 7 What About the Florida Keys?
• 8 Blue Ridge Parkway (West Virginia to Tennessee)
• 9 Adirondacks (NYC to The Finger Lakes)
• 10 Ohio’s Amish Country Byway (Ohio)
• 11 Black to Yellow Route (Wyoming)
• 12.1 CLICK HERE to read a fascinating mystery you can learn about on the Natchez Trace involving Meriwether Lewis, of Lewis and Clark fame
• 13 New ebook from Mike and Jennifer Wendland – the Natchez Trace

The list we’re talking about was compiled by the good folks at TripSavvy.com . To make it easy for you to read, we put the list below.

Of course, the proverbial $64 million question is: are these actually the best RV road trips in the U.S.? Let us know in the comments below!

National Parks & Highway 12 (Salt Lake City to Grand Canyon)

Drivers who head southbound from Salt Lake City, Utah will pass a playground of gorgeous national parks stretching to neighboring Arizona. Highway 12 Scenic Byway is a 122.9-mile route that’s regarded as one of the most beautiful drives in the world. It is a designated “All-American Road” that stretches from Capitol Reef to Bryce Canyon National Parks. That means a wide range of breathtaking views, from desert red rock and alpine forest.

Visitors might want to consider a stop at Anasazi State Park and the Anasazi ruins that date back to 1050 A.D. and are located in Boulder, Utah. Continue on to the incredible Grand Staircase-Escalante where you might want to consider parking your RV for the night at Yonder Escalante , which offers plenty of RV sites. From there, continue on with visits to Bryce and Zion National Parks, before finishing at the Grand Canyon in Arizona.

The Blues Highway (Nashville to New Orleans)

Highway 61 is also known as “The Blues Highway.” It is recognized as the famous road written about by dozens of blues artists, and road trippers will travel through a piece of history and enjoy a wide variety of scenic views.

Starting in Nashville (which we documented a trip to a while ago here ), home to country music’s most famous stage and the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum , continue on to Memphis, where Elvis Presley fans can fully immerse themselves in the King of Rock n Roll’s life. After a visit to Graceland , head on to Mississippi and finally New Orleans, where the French Quarter has long inspired musicians, writers, and artists.

Pacific Coast Highway (California)

Stretching along most of California’s coast, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is one of the best-known coastal drives in the country. RVers who start in Dana Point, California will travel through Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Big Sur, and San Francisco. Road travelers will pass stunning cliffs, the iconic Hearst Castle, and redwood forests. Many consider a hike down Fern Canyon , where part of “Jurassic Park: Lost World” was filmed, a must. Be sure to check out some of these previous RV Lifestyle posts for more.

Pacific Coast Scenic Byway (Oregon)

Looking for an alternative to the PCH that's just as jaw-dropping as the famous California drive? Try Oregon. Starting in Astoria, RVers will travel down the Oregon coast for 363 miles before ending near Brookings. Along the way, travelers will pass by endless options for sand and surf, including Cannon Beach and Whaleshead Beach. Hikers may want to spent some time in less-crowded state parks, like Cape Lookout and Samuel Boardman State Scenic Corridor, or walk under the world’s largest eucalyptus tree (at almost 70 feet tall) along Myrtle Tree Trail .

The Overseas Highway: Miami to Key West of U.S. Highway 1

U.S. Highway 1 is the ideal choice for those looking to experience picturesque views of pristine beaches, sunsets, and palm trees as they pass through charming cities and end at one of the most scenic drives in the nation. Begin with some golf in St. Petersburg at the historic Vinoy Renaissance Resort and Golf Club before heading south to Cape Coral where you can take a dip in the Gulf of Mexico. Head to Fort Lauderdale for picturesque sunsets, then on through the swaying coconut palms of Islamorada. Finally, you will drive across the Overseas Highway and the crystal clear waters of the Florida Keys, ending in Key West.

What About the Florida Keys ?

Do you want to hit Key West, the Everglades National Park, and all the other great things the Keys have to offer? Well, we have just the thing for you. Jennifer and I love traveling to the Keys, so we've created a complete 7-Day RV Adventure Guide: Florida Keys . This downloadable guide includes a suggested itinerary and a list of the best RV parks along the way.

We also have a 7 -Day RV Adventure Guide to Florida's Atlantic Coast and Florida's Gulf Coast . If you're interested in all three, you should check out our Florida RV Travel Guide Bundle .

Blue Ridge Parkway (West Virginia to Tennessee)

It's not hard to see why the Blue Ridge Parkway has the nickname of “America's Favorite Drive.” The 469-mile route offers the best of the Appalachian range, connecting Virginia's Shenandoah National Park with North Carolina's Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Suggested route: Start at the northern entrance in Rockfish Gap, Virginia, then drive south, passing through Roanoke before entering North Carolina. Of course, Asheville is a popular stop.

Adirondacks (NYC to The Finger Lakes)

We have fallen in love with the Adirondacks and New York State. There are mountains, raging rivers, deep gorges, gorgeous lakes and hiking that can’t be beat. Then there is the beautiful Finger Lakes area and, of course, America’s top-rated state park, Letchworth State Park.

Covering a whopping 6 million acres, the world is your oyster when it comes to the outdoors and there's no shortage of hiking and biking trails as well as intimate villages and historical sites.

Along the way, RVers can visit numerous vineyards with tasting rooms in the Finger Lakes wine region. After a beautiful drive through New York state’s rolling hills, RVers will enter the quaint village of Aurora and feel at ease with the calming waters of Cayuga Lake and pristinely restored historic homes that make up the lakeside luxury boutique resort at the Inns of Aurora.

Be sure to check out our Adirondack RV Adventure video below!

Ohio’s Amish Country Byway (Ohio)

Amish Country Byway in Ohio boasts views of natural landscape along winding curves and rolling hills that make it one of the most beautiful backdrops for a road trip. It’s a charming country byway that will offer a great selection of Amish country cooking, old-world artisan shops, and historic sites detailing the history of Amish and German people. Those who feel adventurous might want to get out and explore the Mohican-Memorial State Forest for a few hours.

Black to Yellow Route (Wyoming)

The Black to Yellow Route starts on I-90 traveling from Wyoming’s Black Hills in the northeastern corner to Yellowstone National Park in the northwest portion of the state. The route allows road travelers to see the nation’s first national monument and first national park while enjoying charming towns and scenic byways along the way. Consider a stop in Sheridan, a beautiful small town filled with western history (including The Mint Bar, which was built in 1907 and became a famous cowboy bar) and a growing brewery and distillery scene. You will likely also want to spend some time in Cody. Be sure to check out a video we did on Cody below!

Natchez Trace Parkway (Mississippi to Tennessee)

The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile recreational road and scenic drive through three states. It roughly follows the “Old Natchez Trace” a historic travel corridor used by American Indians, “Kaintucks,” European settlers, slave traders, soldiers, and future presidents. Today, people can enjoy not only a scenic drive but also hiking, biking, horseback riding, and camping along the parkway.

Explore the many waterfalls including Fall Hollow Waterfall and Jackson Falls, where you can stretch your legs and go for a cool swim. Quaint towns like Leiper’s Fork offer plenty, such as unique galleries and artisanal boutiques. at the Loveless Café on milepost 444 is a must—this former roadside motel serves fluffy biscuits, pies, and iconic Southern cooking. 

CLICK HERE to read a fascinating mystery you can learn about on the Natchez Trace involving Meriwether Lewis, of Lewis and Clark fame

New ebook from mike and jennifer wendland – the natchez trace.

The Natchez Trace Parkway  will capture your imagination, soothe your jangled travel nerves, open your mind and inspire you with the history that unfolded along its 444 miles.

Each of the 7 Days of the ebook has:

• Suggested Mileposts to explore
• Places to Eat in each area of the 7 sections
• Campground descriptions and links
• Links to all the special places and information
• Links to videos that show more in detail
• and a lot of highlighted information for each section

PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a printed, hard copy guide.

Whether you want to follow the footsteps of explorers, discover natural beauty, or visit historic sites, the Trace has something to grab your attention and leave you eager to see what’s at the next milepost.

You can see why this is one of our favorite US routes to explore.  We’ve traveled it a half dozen times!

Published on 2022-07-20

Mike Wendland is a multiple Emmy-award-winning Journalist, Podcaster, YouTuber, and Blogger, who has traveled with his wife, Jennifer, all over North America in an RV, sharing adventures and reviewing RV, Camping, Outdoor, Travel and Tech Gear for the past 12 years. They are leading industry experts in RV living and have written 18 travel books.

4 Responses to “Are These the Best RV Road Trips in the U.S.?”

July 21, 2022at8:56 am , Paulette Burdick said:

Please stop the political adds and the advertising that is devisive.

July 22, 2022at4:09 pm , Team RV Lifestyle said:

Hi Paulette – Mike does not permit any political ads on his site. Zero. So if you are seeing political ads, that is because you must have visited some sort of political site, and are being tracked that way. The dynamic ad placements are based on the viewers search history- so that is why you are seeing them. Hope that helps – Team RV Lifestyle

July 21, 2022at8:18 am , Joan Harman said:

RE: The Blue Ridge Parkway article-I think you mean to say westERN Virginia and not West Virginia. The Blue Ridge Parkway does not cross into WV (unfortunately).

July 22, 2022at12:26 pm , Team RV Lifestyle said:

thanks for that typo catch – will share so we can fix! Team RV Lifestyle

Comments are closed.

Related Posts

8 Best Events & Festivals in Northern Michigan (2024)

The Awesome Synchronous Fireflies of Congaree National Park (2024)

Latest Tips for Camping in the Badlands of South Dakota

A road trip planner that plans your trip for you

Roadtrippers Autopilot™ creates your itinerary based on what we’ve learned from over 38 million trips. You’re never more than a few clicks away from your next great adventure.

• Auto Travel

Let Autopilot take the wheel planning your next road trip, scenic drive, RV journey and everything in between. Then enjoy the ride while uncovering hidden gems along the way.

Get real-time traffic updates and access to wildfire smoke maps to stay informed and connected throughout your journey.

Collaborate

Share your itinerary with your copilots so they can help with the finishing touches.

Let Roadtrippers be your guide, navigating the twists and turns as you roam the open roads with confidence and ease.

Exclusive Access To Autopilot

Roadtrippers offers an automated road trip planner. Let us do the planning for you! Enter in a few key details and we’ll craft a custom tailored trip just for you.

Choose the right plan for you—and try it free for 7 days

Premium planning.

RV-Friendly Tools

Overnight RV Parking

Start free for 7 days

Then $35.99 (that's only $2.99/month), then $49.99 (that's only $4.17/month), then $59.99 (that's only $4.99/month).

† RV-Friendly routing features (including routing warnings for vehicle hazards and propane restrictions) are available in the U.S. only.

Free 7-day trial

Test drive the best features of Roadtrippers Premium for free! Eligible users will get exclusive access to all the tools needed to plan the perfect road trip.

Create a Roadtrippers account to start your 7-day free trial.

Already have a Roadtrippers account?

We need your email address

Before we can sign you up for Roadtrippers, we need your email address. Click the button below to go to your profile.

Plan your next adventure with a Roadtrippers Premium account

Due after 7-day free trial

Thank you for signing up for a Roadtrippers Subscription

Get started planning your next trip now!

Good news...you already have Roadtrippers!

Thanks for being one of our most dedicated users.

• Sign up Log in Sign out
• Log in Sign out

Plan your journey, find amazing places, and take fascinating detours with our app.

If you used to sign in with Roadpass, you should now use the same username and password to log in directly with Roadtrippers above.

We couldn't find an existing Roadtrippers account using that service. Please try signing in with another option.

We need your email address to send you trip itineraries and other updates.

How do you want to plan your trip?

With just a few questions, our newest Premium feature, Autopilot, will plan your next adventure.

• Find a Location

An Essential RV Road Trip Checklist

Start with a Roadworthy Check-up (ideally, 3-6 months before your trip). Before you even think about heading out on the road, you need to check your RV’s condition and ensure it is safe and ready for travel. The last thing you want to do is end up stranded and have to deal with mechanical or electrical issues instead of enjoying your vacation. Consider having your RV inspected by a certified technician at least annually while you perform regular preventative and condition-based maintenance . Remember, an ounce of prevention outweighs a pound of cure.

The Big 4 in RV Trip Preparation

These top four checks will go a long way in avoiding costly repairs down the road. So, allow for plenty of time, a month or more, to check these items in case you find issues.

Check the roof as a part of your road trip checklist. UV and water deteriorate the roof sealant coating over time. Regular care, preventative maintenance, and periodic inspection can maximize your RV roof lifespan. RV roof replacement can cost $300+ per linear foot (labor and materials) while resealing your RV roof can cost $250-$500 total.

• If your RV roof is walkable, be sure to walk it so you can closely check for damage. Otherwise, use a ladder to inspect the condition of your roof from a safe vantage point. If you’re not comfortable at heights, have an expert do a roof check at your nearest Camping World Service Station.
• Make sure there are no cracks or broken seals around anything.
• Rub your hand over the roof surface to check the sealant for a chalk-like feeling. White residue on your hand indicates the roof coating is deteriorating. While this is normal wear, this means it’s time to reseal your RV roof.
• If needed, thoroughly wash your RV’s exterior to help with visual inspection and water leak detection .

Check those tires —on your RV and tow vehicle if you have one. Remember to check all spare tires, too. Tire blowouts are a leading cause of RV accidents. If your rig is in long-term storage, the tires should still be raised off the ground to reduce load weight stress and distortion.

• Look for wear and tear in the tread and sidewalls.
• Check tires for age. Even if the tire tread looks “like new” as a safety precaution replace tires past the manufacturer’s published lifespan. As mandated by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), the manufactured date code is stamped into the sidewall as the last 4 digits after “DOT.” The first two digits are the week (out of 52 weeks per year) and the last 2 digits are the year it was made. Generally, RV tire lifespan is around 6 years. After that, tires are on borrowed time.
• Check for correct tire pressure as tires lose about 2-3 PSI per month in storage. Also, look for air leaks.
• Check tire lug nuts for tightness as well as wear.

Time-Saving Tip: While you’re checking this area, look under the RV for fluid leaks and holes housing unwanted little guests. Check the RV’s underbelly and look on the ground for evidence. Also pay attention to any rust or cracks on the chassis frame.

Mechanical Inspection

Mechanical inspection is a necessary part of your road trip checklist. Have your RV, from a fifth wheel to a travel trailer , completely mechanically checked, or do it yourself. It’s also wise to check your tow vehicle maintenance as well. Towing adds stress on the tow vehicle, increasing the frequency of routine maintenance.

If this is your first road trip of the RV season, you can bundle this pre-trip inspection with your RV’s annual maintenance technician check . If the technical manual recommends specific maintenance be done by a certified technician, then take it to a professional. Do not disregard warnings or suggestions in the manual and double-check the warranty requirements. Bottom-line, make sure these key components are checked:

• Brakes, Axles, and Differentials: As needed, adjust your brakes, grease your axles, and check your differential fluid level. If you don’t feel comfortable getting underneath your RV for this check, schedule a maintenance service appointment with your nearest Camping World Service Center. If you have already had an annual maintenance service check completed by a certified RV technician, then confirm that the service falls within the mileage guidelines recommended in your owner’s manual.
• Fluids: Fluids are the lifeblood of any motorized vehicle. As a part of your road trip checklist, inspect the level and condition of these essential automotive fluids by looking at the dipsticks and fluid reservoirs located under the hood—engine oil, radiator coolant/antifreeze, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid. To check your freon level, you’ll need an AC recharger with a gauge kit.
• Engine Air Filter: This filter is located inside of a housing connected to the engine block. When removing the engine air filter from its housing, remember its orientation—the orientation matters for some models.
• Cabin Air Filter: Although motorhomes are built on truck and bus chassis, when the outside air intake has been relocated to the enclosure containing the heater and AC evaporator core, the dash HVAC system may not come with a cabin air filter. Check your owner’s manual to confirm your configuration.
• Oil Filter: Remember to replace it when you change your engine oil. The oil filter is attached to the engine block.
• Fuel Filter : If your fuel filter has a clear window, visually inspect the condition of the filter paper and the color of the fluid. If the fuel filter is not see-through, then pay close attention to your engine performance. Watch for decreased fuel efficiency, rough idling, and engine stalling. The fuel filter is located along the fuel line in between the fuel tank and engine, sometimes underneath the vehicle and other times inside the engine compartment.
• Belts, Hoses, and Wiring: Since you’re already in the engine bay, perform a visual inspection of the condition of the belts, hoses, and wires—essentially, everything else visible under the hood. Check for looseness and material deterioration—such as cracking, holes, fraying, and exposed wires.
• Lights : Visibility is critical for safe driving. Test headlights, tail lights, turn signals, and hazard lights/flashers.
• Horn : The road, and even the trails, accommodate drivers of all skill levels. Your horn is a safety device to alert others of your approach, especially when the other driver seems unaware of your presence. When you’re traversing a winding grade, those you’re sharing the road with will appreciate the safe use of your horn.

RV Hitch and Tow

Make sure your hitch and towing equipment are in good order as a part of your RV road trip checklist. Your hitch and tow setup should be compatible with your load capacity . Check for corrosion, wear, and loose parts while inspecting the following items:

• Fifth wheel trailer kingpin and fifth-wheel components . Before hooking up to your tow vehicle you will need to install a lube plate or add grease to the fifth wheel hitch skid plate surface. Remember to lubricate the rest of the moving parts to protect the inner workings of your hitch as well as prevent a stuck hitch release.
• Conventional trailer hitch components and tow vehicle rear receiver opening. If your tow vehicle is equipped with an aftermarket frame mount hitch , inspect the bolts or welds.
• Weight distribution hitch components and sway control system components .
• Tow dolly components and accessories .
• Pay extra attention to the coupler mechanism and all hitch pins used in your hitch and tow setup. The hitch coupler and pins prevent your RV and tow vehicle from disconnecting during travel.
• Check all bolts because road vibrations can loosen bolts over time.
• Check all cables, electrical connections, and chains.
• RV bumper hitch . Although this hitch is not rated to tow a trailer or vehicle, if your RV uses this hitch mount attachment for hauling bicycles, cargo, or other accessories then remember to check the bumper fastener (clamp or bolt-on).

Inspect and Prep RV Systems

Next on the road trip checklist: inspect your systems. Check or have your RV’s internal functions completely checked. These inspection points can also be scheduled with your RV’s annual maintenance service. If you RV full-time, your RV systems should be regularly maintained and ideally, you’re already vigilantly monitoring these items.

Completing these checks also tests RV circuits for issues. Inspect for damage, corrosion, and loose or stuck parts. As needed, use the recommended compatible conditioners, lubricants, and fluids to protect and maintain these components:

• Open and extend steps , slideouts, slide toppers, awnings, windows, and any patio decks. These should be retracted and closed during storage. Note whether these items move freely. Pay attention to the condition of all latches, hooks, hinges, and any movable parts. This functional test also pre-checks your coach batteries.
• Check slideout seals , visible mounting points, and visible slide mechanism components.
• Check topper and awning fabric as well as arms, tubes, and visible wiring.
• Check window seals. Look for chips, cracks, and leaks in the glass.
• Check the seals around doors , storage compartments, and any patio decks.
• If you skipped washing your RV earlier, it’s a good idea to thoroughly wash your RV exterior to help with visual inspection and water leak detection around the windows and doors.
• If necessary, de-winterize your RV . You can test the campground/city water hookup as part of this step when you pressurize the water system.
• Inspect the water heater. Make sure to put that drain plug back in if you removed it. Check panel wiring for dry rot and debris.
• If you have a gas/electric refrigerator, remember to check the panel wiring for dry rot and debris as well.
• Check the condition of your HVAC system components .
• Sanitize the freshwater tank if it’s been six months or longer.
• Check for mold, mildew, and unwanted critters inside the refrigerator, bathrooms, under sinks, inside closets, and the rest of the RV interior.
• Check your batteries —coach, chassis, tow vehicle—for corrosion, fluid levels, and recharge (as needed).
• Safety checks on your propane system . Start with the propane system turned off. Pay attention to any propane odor. Look at your propane tank label to confirm whether it needs recertification. Inspect the propane hoses and seals for cracking. If no visible issues, then open your propane tank to bubble test for propane leaks. If no leaks, continue onto the next check.

Functional Test RV Systems

Before testing, inspect all exhaust and intake openings and remove any nests or debris found inside. Test run remaining RV systems.

• Inspect and run your generator. As needed, change filters and fluids according to the manufacturer’s technical manual. If you regularly use your generator while RVing, then plug it into your generator for testing the electrical appliances. This better simulates your real-world usage.
• Stove (Begin with the stove in case you need to bleed any air out of the propane lines .)
• Water heater (Start the water heater soon after so it can heat the water while you test other appliances.)
• Water pump (While testing the water heater, you’ll also test run the water pump .)
• Refrigerator
• Confirm any dual or 3-way gas/electric appliances run properly for every option.
• Lights (Check to make sure all lights work—interior lights and exterior auxiliary lights. Proper lighting helps with security and to deter theft .)
• If you did not have to de-winterize your RV, also test run the campground/city water hookup .
• Inspect your jacks for dents, bent or twisted metal, stripped threads, loose bolts, and corrosion. If your RV has electric or hydraulic jacks, also look at the motor, wiring, electrical connections, hydraulic hoses, and hydraulic fluid level depending on the jack type. As a precaution, refer to the jack manufacturer’s technical manual before performing preventative maintenance. Repair methods can vary across manufacturers of the same type of jack.
• Temporarily pull your RV out of its storage spot. This flexes the tires for oil dispersion within the rubber components. This also tests your jacks, hitch setup, and trailer brakes and lights. With the RV out of the way, recheck the storage parking space for evidence of leaks.

1 Week to Pull Chocks

About a week before your trip is where the bulk of the road trip planning needs to occur. It’s also the ideal timeframe for an RV Ready Check-In. Doing all this a week out gives you enough time to get it done without having to rush. It’s best to discover any issues and troubleshoot whether you need replacement parts before hitting the road.

Prep for Your Travel

• It’s smart to contact campgrounds at or near your destination and make a reservation. In some locations, drop-ins aren’t allowed. Many popular campgrounds fill up fast, and you need to plan well in advance.
• If you are a first-time RV owner , leverage Camping World’s expertise to fill in any knowledge gaps. In addition to online resources, there’s the Camping World YouTube channel . Plus, you can always visit the nearest store for professional advice on your specific RV model and lifestyle setup.

Preventative Measures

• Reconfirm fluid levels are satisfactory for your motorhome, tow vehicle, and generator. If something has changed since your Roadworthy Check-up, re-inspect for leaks.
• Recheck your battery holds a charge. If the battery charge indicator is not showing full/max, then re-inspect the battery for the root cause .
• Recheck the black tank level. The sensor should indicate empty . If it isn’t reading empty, then you know an issue with the sensor is at play—either something is stuck to it or the sensor needs replaced.
• Confirm the number of additional propane tanks and gas cans you think you’ll need for your destination plans if any. Make sure you have enough cargo straps to secure these flammable items. Check all propane and gas containers for leaks before filling up or stowing in your RV. Fill or exchange propane cylinders.
• Inspect your fire safety systems — smoke alarm, carbon monoxide detector, LP detector, fire extinguishers. Be sure to carry the recommended number of fire extinguishers. With towable RVs , keep one in an unlocked compartment of your tow vehicle.
• Optional:   Add deodorizer to your black and grey holding tanks. This allows plenty of time for it to address any lingering or developing odors. This tip really depends on your preference and sensitivity to smells.

Restock and Stage

• Put together a meal plan and be ready to prepare food at the campground.
• Shop for food and supplies you’ll need on your trip.
• If this is your RV’s first outing, outfit it properly .
• Stage the gear you plan to use at your destination— hiking , hunting , fishing , boating , and more .
• Pack or stage laundry (remember the towels!). If needed, wash laundry that you plan to take with you.
• Check tools and spare parts inventory. Stage any tools until load-in.
• Check to make sure that your first aid kit is complete .
• Gather all of the important paperwork , like insurance and health documents, and have them in one place.
• Gather all required medications for your family as well as any pets.
• Prearrange any obligations to be covered while your gone—for example, bills, mail delivery, packages.
• Plan your route and print copies of maps and directions (in case you don’t have internet access or phone signal). Good Sam members can use the exclusive Trip Planner to research a travel route with height clearance search filters.
• As you gather and stage these items, build a cargo packing plan .

Day Before Hitting the Road with Your RV

It’s time to load supplies and gear. Doing these items the day before departure saves stress and gives you time to reconfigure your storage plan if needed. Also, time to do a double-check of the following:

• Double-check tire pressure on the tow vehicle and RV.
• Double-check awnings are secured .
• Double-check exterior-mounted cargo —bikes, kayaks, coolers are secure.
• Double-check walkie-talkies are charged.

Safe Load Limits

Avoid overloading and remember to account for any liquid weight.

• When loading and packing your RV and tow vehicle, take note of the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) . Try your best to balance the load weight evenly across the axles from front to rear and side to side.
• For driving and braking safety, do not exceed the Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) .

Departure Day

You’re almost ready to get in your RV and hit the road, it’s essential to take some time and make sure you’re totally prepared for your trip.

Travel Safety Checks

Even if you checked these yesterday, it’s a wise practice and good habit to do a walk-around just in case anything changed. Because anything could happen, even in your own driveway. Run through the travel safety checks:

• Clean all windows, mirrors , and cameras . Everything you do to increase your visibility will help you maneuver more easily and safely.
• Verify all appliances are turned off and stored. Remember the fridge, and use safe settings for travel. Certain states prohibit RVers from operating propane refrigerators in transit. While this practice remains hotly debated, RV refrigerator manufacturers do not officially oppose these regulations.
• Verify hookup hoses/connections are closed. Remember to check your propane tanks, hoses, and valves.
• Final Walkthrough Verification. Walk through the interior of the RV to make sure stuff is secured. Check inside all cupboards and the refrigerator to secure items that might move or shift while traveling. Close all internal and external doors and cabinets and lock them if necessary. Secure any additional gas cans and propane tanks. Open any toy hauler garage exhaust vents.
• Avoid clearance issues . Check all antenna and vents to sure they aren’t up before pulling out. Close roof vents except those for ventilation. Make sure any moving parts are secured. Ensure all external RV items such as steps, decks, and handrails are properly stowed.
• Remember to remove wheel chocks as well as raise jacks and stabilizers before pulling out. Also, remember to grab your leveling blocks underneath the jacks and stabilizers.
• Final Walkaround Inspection . Do a thorough walkaround inspection of the RV, tow vehicle, and hitch pins. Touch everything to make sure it’s secure and ready to go.

Fueled and Ready to Go the Distance

Your journey is ready to begin. Here are a few things that will make your travels more comfortable with fewer inconvenient pitstops.

• Pack the fridge and the cooler . While it won’t derail your adventure, the meal plan you put together for the campground will be tastier if you packed the ingredients. Pack the cooler so you minimize opening the fridge until you reach your destination.
• Fill containers for drinking water. Keep them and the cooler within the passenger area for easy access.
• Fill the potable freshwater tank to your preferred level if you are boondocking, but remember that carrying a lot of water with you adds a considerable amount of weight to your rig. Try to do this closer to your campsite.
• Fuel up the vehicle if it isn’t already.

With every item on this RV road trip checklist marked off, you should have a safe and enjoyable trip. With this comprehensive checklist and some savvy RV hacks , you’ll be the smartest camper at the campground.

How do you prepare for your RV trips? Anything you’d add to this checklist? 

• Comment (5)

My camper , a 2004 pioneer travel trailer has been setting outside in the weather for the last 5 years due to my health with cancer.

Now I am well enough to want to try and start using our travel trailer again but the top and sides has really gotten fiflty with black streaks, etc.

What would you suggest I use to get it back clean again ??

What states prohibit using propane to power your RV refrigerator while in transit? I’ve Googled this a number of times and several ways and have not found any information or states that prohibit it. Please provide a link to any such information if it actually does exist. I have always traveled with my RV refrigerator running on propane and so did my dad when I was growing up, well over 50 years doing so and never any problems. I never pull up to a gas pump with it on and don’t turn it back on until well clear of fueling pumps. I also make sure there is nothing electrical powered on and running while fueling including my cellphone and always ground myself before grabbing a fuel nozzle. This ought to be common sense but unfortunately it isn’t. It only takes a spark to ignite any potential gas fumes present and accidents involving ignition of gas or fumes from static, cellphone, or other electrical/electronic devices is well documented.

We have become avid tailgaters for concerts & festivals so we created “the tailgate bucket”. This large box contains it all: utensils, grilling items, spices paper towels, trash bags, toilet paper, koozies, etc etc. Now that we have our first camper, we just grab the tailgate bucket, throw it in the camper & go! I am now creating other task specific buckets for the camper (bed and bath, outdoor/patio/campfire, first-aid, etc). This way, we can prep the buckets in the house well in advance of our trips. So much easier and you do not forget essentials as they are always stocked in advance. We restock at the end of each trip so it’s pretty much ready to go for the next adventure! Since we have our camper stored at a location an hour away, we cannot just go in and out to check supplies & inventory. So this system is perfect!

I like using Find Friends app to share with family so they can track where we are at? Works great if are traveling as a group also.

Good check list. However I would do a final walk around inspection (especially if you are a full timer. Before I get all crazy and weight a bunch of stuff there is a check list in the cdl study guide provided by the DMV that will work very well. 1) pull your rig out of your current parking spot and to a safe spot in the park or street. 2) walk back to your parking spot and check the following; – you didn’t forget anything, chuck blocks, leveling blocks, hoses, chairs or anything else. – be sure you cleaned up after yourself, all trash… – inspect the ground for any signs of leaks from your rig ( puddles, drips, stains….) – be courteous and check out with the park host – do a final check of all lights, brakes, CB, Walkie Talkies, and all passengers to include pets – Make all last minute calls to family and friends where you are leaving from and where you are going to. This includes your next destination to give them a heads up if you are arriving after hours. -SAFE TRAVELS

Leave Your Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Shop By RV Type

Your Adventure Awaits

Copyright © 2023 cwi, llc all rights reserved.

• RV Glossary |
• Privacy Policy |
• California Privacy Rights |
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information |
• Targeted Advertising Opt Out |
• Terms of Use

13 Best Travel Trailers for Road Trips and Camping

Travel trailers have revolutionized the way we experience road trips and camping, offering a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and adventure.

Unlike traditional camping, travel trailers provide a mobile home-away-from-home, ensuring that amenities like beds, kitchens, and sometimes even bathrooms travel with you.

This flexibility allows travelers to explore a variety of destinations without sacrificing the comforts of home. Ideal for families, couples, or solo adventurers, these trailers range in size and functionality to suit different needs.

Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a cross-country journey, travel trailers offer a unique way to connect with nature while maintaining a sense of security and comfort.

Best Travel Trailers

1. winnebago micro minnie.

The Winnebago Micro Minnie is a popular lightweight travel trailer, offering a range of floor plans to cater to different camping and road trip needs. With lengths varying from 19’4.5” to 25’8”, the Micro Minnie can accommodate 3 to 5 people depending on the model.

Key features across different models include a 13,500 BTU air conditioning unit, a 200-Watt solar panel, and 12-Volt tank pad warmers. The different models offer various sleeping arrangements, kitchen sizes, and additional features like Murphy beds or twin beds that can be converted into a king bed.

The MSRP for different models starts from around $41,125 to $48,000, making it a versatile option for families and groups.

2. TAB Teardrop Camper

The TAB Teardrop Camper by nuCamp RV is a unique blend of classic teardrop design and modern amenities, making it an ideal choice for road trips and camping. This camper stands out with its rounded European-style edges and innovative features.

It offers excellent storage solutions, including overhead storage above the dinette, lockable cabinets, and outdoor storage options. For those who love stargazing, the camper includes a large front picture window and a rear stargazer window, both insulated for comfort.

The interior is equipped with a master control panel to monitor tank levels and battery, an Alde heating system providing even, dust-free heat and instant hot water, and an air conditioner located under the dinette for better aerodynamics.

Entertainment is taken care of with a Bluetooth media center and a 24-inch TV. For off-road enthusiasts, the nuCamp offers a TAB 400 Boondock Package, featuring off-road tires, a pitched axle, and additional outdoor storage options.

3. Airstream Classic Smart Trailer

It is renowned for its high-quality finishes and smart control technology, allowing users to monitor and manage the trailer’s features remotely.

The Classic’s interior is designed for comfort and convenience, featuring high-end kitchen facilities, a magnificent bathroom, and comfortable sleeping arrangements with options for power twin beds or a rear power queen bed. Its front panoramic windows offer breathtaking views and can be covered with blackout curtains for privacy.

The Classic series is available in various lengths, with the 33-foot model being one of the most popular. This model boasts an impressive array of features, including a 54-gallon fresh water tank, 37-gallon gray water tank, and a 39-gallon black water tank, making it suitable for long stays.

Additionally, the Airstream Classic comes with hydronic heating, providing quiet and efficient temperature control, and is the only model with this feature.

4. Jayco Jay Flight

The Jayco Jay Flight series is renowned for its strong build quality and variety of floor styles, catering to different camping needs. The SLX 8 model is notable for its robust structure, spacious bathroom with modern amenities, and ample storage, both inside and outside.

It comfortably sleeps up to 4 people, with an interior height of 81 inches and a dry weight of 4,782 lbs. The model is equipped with a range of appliances, including a refrigerator, microwave oven, two-burner range, water heater, LED TV, and air conditioner.

The Jay Flight series stands out with its Magnum Truss Roof System, known for its strength, and an industry-leading warranty.

These features, combined with the use of Goodyear tires and custom frames, contribute to the safety and longevity of the trailers, making the Jay Flight a great choice for road trips and camping.

5. Happier Camper Traveler

The Happier Camper Traveler is a compact and versatile travel trailer, ideal for adventure seekers. It’s lightweight at around 1,800 pounds, towable by various vehicles, and fuel-efficient. Its unique feature is the customizable interior using “Adaptiv” technology, allowing reconfigurable layouts.

The trailer includes a kitchen, bathroom, and 85 square feet of space, blending modern and vintage styles. Prices start from approximately $49,950.

The KZ Durango Half-Ton is a luxurious yet towable fifth wheel travel trailer. It features a range of amenities like Dexter® Axles, LED lighting, and a foam-core heating system. The interior boasts high-end finishes with practical comforts like a porcelain toilet and shower skylight.

The KZ Advantage Package enhances it further. It’s suitable for those seeking luxury camping with easy towability, compatible with half-ton trucks.

6. KZ Durango Half-Ton

The KZ Durango Half-Ton is a luxurious, lightweight fifth wheel travel trailer ideal for road trips and camping.

It offers various floor plans under 12,000 lbs for easy towing. Key features include a steel powder-coated frame, laminated Azdel composite panels, and a Tufflex PVC roof with a lifetime warranty.

The interior boasts a full-sized kitchen, ample storage, a cozy entertainment center, and a comfortable bedroom with a queen-size bed. It also includes outdoor amenities like a spacious awning and extensive storage.

The RV Airflow System improves air conditioning performance, and an optional solar package allows for off-grid camping. The KZ Advantage Package adds features for all-season use, and a 2-year hitch-to-bumper limited warranty provides reliability and peace of mind.

7. Casita Spirit

The Casita Spirit is known for its classic Casita experience, featuring two distinct sleeping areas that can transform into dining tables, accommodating up to six people.

The rear dinette can be permanently converted into a double bed, providing versatility in its use. The Spirit model, with its 17′ length, 2,480 lbs dry weight, and an interior height of 6’2″, offers a cozy and convenient space for travelers.

Notably, the Casita Spirit Deluxe model comes with essential amenities like a wet bath, kitchenette, and storage spaces. 

The Spirit model is particularly suitable for those who appreciate a more relaxed and convenient camping experience, with a layout that saves time and effort in setting up and breaking down living spaces.

Its construction includes marine-grade fiberglass, making it durable and resistant to various weather conditions. The Casita Spirit is an ideal choice for those seeking a travel trailer that combines comfort, functionality, and ease of towing.

8. Keystone Hideout

The Keystone Hideout travel trailer is known for its range of family-friendly features, making it a popular choice for road trips and camping.

Models like the Hideout 290QB and 32LBH offer sleeping arrangements for up to eight or nine people, with private bunkhouses and master bedrooms.

Key features include an outdoor kitchen, laundry chute, fireplace, and panoramic windows that provide ample natural light.

The Hideout series also boasts a private bedroom, wrap-around storage, and Jackknife sofas in various models. These trailers are celebrated for their spacious layouts and comfort, providing an ideal setup for large groups or families.

9. Forest River Alpha Wolf

The Forest River Alpha Wolf is a notable option for families or small groups, offering a blend of comfort and convenience. It features a range of models suitable for different needs, such as the Alpha Wolf 23RD-L and 22SW-L, which are ideal for small families or couples.

These models typically include a queen bed, panoramic rear window, walk-through bathroom, tri-fold sofa, residential refrigerator, and a super U-shaped dinette.

An outdoor kitchen is also a common feature in these trailers, adding to their appeal for outdoor activities. The Alpha Wolf stands out for its spacious and practical layout, making it an excellent choice for road trips and camping.

10. Grand Design Reflection

The Grand Design Reflection series stands out in the travel trailer and fifth-wheel market for its luxurious interiors and functional designs. The series is known for offering spacious and comfortable bedrooms with pillowtop mattresses, oversized underbed storage, and king-size wardrobes.

In the bathroom, the Reflection models shine with features like wide view skylights over showers, spacious showers with glass doors, and large medicine cabinets with mirrors.

The interiors of these models are designed for comfort and durability, featuring solid hardwood drawer fronts, premium Congoleum flooring, and LED lighting throughout with motion sensors.

The Reflection series also includes roller shade window coverings and tri-fold hide-a-bed sofas, ensuring a cozy and homelike environment. 

11. Opus OP 15 Hybrid

The Opus OP 15 Hybrid is a robust and luxurious off-road camper that blends the features of a traditional travel trailer with those of a pop-up camper, offering an expansive interior living space.

This hybrid camper is known for its adaptability and is equipped with a king-size bed and additional bunk beds, comfortably accommodating a family of four.

Key features include a 300-watt solar system, a full kitchen with stainless-steel appliances, and an integrated speaker system, enhancing the off-grid camping experience. It also boasts twin shock-absorbers and independent suspension for each wheel, ensuring a smooth ride on uneven terrain.

With its 63-gallon freshwater capacity, 17-gallon grey water tank, and 10-gallon black water tank, the Opus OP 15 is well-suited for extended camping trips. Additionally, its interior includes a heater, AC, TV, and a bathroom with on-demand hot water, providing home-like comfort in remote locations.

The exterior of the camper features a slide-out kitchen, adding convenience to outdoor cooking. Priced at around $45,000, the Opus OP 15 Hybrid is an excellent choice for families or groups looking for a versatile and comfortable camping experience.

12. Alto Series F2414

The Alto Series F2414 by Safari Condo is a remarkable travel trailer known for its lightweight design, thoughtful floorplan, and quality construction. Weighing under 3,000 pounds, it’s surprisingly light for its 24-foot length, making it easily towable by a range of vehicles.

The trailer’s floorplan is well-designed, maximizing comfort and functionality within a compact space, ensuring no space is wasted.

One of the standout features of the Alto F2414 is its large, panoramic windows, which when combined with custom-tailored blackout curtains, provide a unique balance of immersive outdoor experience and private, comfortable indoor space.

Additionally, the Safari Condo Alto F2414 supports various camping styles, from off-grid adventures to stays in RV parks with hookups. This versatility, along with the trailer’s ability to retain significant resale value, makes it a compelling option for a wide range of campers.

The Alto Series F2414 combines the appeal of a lightweight trailer with the features and comforts typically found in larger RVs, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile and reliable travel trailer for road trips and camping.

13. Polydrops P17A

The Polydrops P17A represents a significant advancement in travel trailers, particularly for electric vehicle owners. Its aerodynamic design and lightweight aluminum frame, inherited from its predecessor, enable it to be towed by most vehicles, including EVs, without substantial range loss.

A test with a 2018 Tesla Model 3 Long Range demonstrated the P17A’s efficiency, showing only a 20% range reduction as opposed to the typical 50% with other campers.

The trailer is about 14 feet long, 6 feet wide, and 5 feet high, providing a spacious interior with a full-size mattress, LED lighting, and ample storage, including a micro closet.

The P17A also excels in energy efficiency, equipped with up to 520W solar panels and 12kWh batteries, enabling over six nights of climate-controlled camping. The base model is priced at $24,990, with options for additional upgrades like a Bluetooth sound system and a kitchen module.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the best travel trailer for road trips and camping involves considering a variety of features that enhance comfort, convenience, and safety.

It’s essential to choose a trailer that fits your specific travel and camping needs, whether you seek a compact design for easy maneuverability or a luxury model with all the comforts of home.

Ultimately, the best travel trailer is one that aligns with your camping style and provides a seamless blend of functionality, comfort, and enjoyment on the road.

Travelling Australia, learning things the hard way

Traveling Around Australia with a Camper Trailer

For most people, taking the big step away from PLANNING your trip around Australia and actually GOING on your trip is a big one. For every person, couple or family actually out there on the road traveling around Australia there is another 5 at home planning their trip.

In my opinion, it’s two main reasons.

REASON 1: The fear of the unknown . How will I earn money on the road? (Or if you don’t plan on working, have I saved enough money?) Where do I start? When do I end? How long do I go for?

REASON 2: Worried about your setup . Is it adequate enough? Surely you need a big caravan to live on the road and travel Australia full-time?

For the purposes of this article, I’m going to let you answer reason 1 yourself. Reason 2 is why we are here.

Some people only use their camper trailer for long weekends. And there is nothing wrong with that. But I’m here to tell you that YES you can travel Australia long term and still be very comfortable with just your camper trailer. No need for big or expensive caravans.

Sure the caravan has a lot of benefits of comfort and ease of setup. Perhaps even some extra storage. But I assure you, there are times when the caravan owners are envious of your smaller, lighter and more simple camper trailer setup.

For one, a camper trailer is a lot lighter, so it’s not only easier to tow, but it also means you will be chewing less fuel. How often do you overtake an old couple towing a caravan at 80km/h in a 100 zone? All the time. It’s not because they are taking in the sights and sounds. It’s because they are saving huge amounts of money by burning less fuel.

I’m not saying that you should buy a camper trailer so you can drive faster. You can just be more relaxed about your fuel bill.

While actually on the road towing, I find the best benefit of the camper trailer is that I can see over the top of it in my rear-vision mirror. No need for big side mirror extensions like caravan owners have. I can see everything happening behind me.

After a big drive you want to be able to setup as quickly and easy as possible.

A little system that Jazz and I have developed is “the flop out.” If we plan on staying at this location for one night, and plan on leaving early in the morning to get to our destination, then we do a very basic setup we call “the flop out.”

We don’t even wind the leg stabilisers down. And definitely don’t disconnect the car. That’s just wasted time in the morning reconnecting.

We will unclip the camper top, fold it out, and raise only the poles that are absolutely essential to make sure we get a good night sleep. We will unpack only the essentials. Two chairs and some basic gear to cook and eat with. That’s it.

By doing this, we are able to be setup in 5 minutes and ready to go in the morning in 10.

On the flip side, if we plan on staying somewhere for more than 3 nights or so we will do a fairly extensive setup. In these “longer stay” locations, I really enjoy taking the time to setup things properly. It can be a very enjoyable experience once you have a procedure going. Jazz has her jobs and I have mine. If we deviate from the plan it will regularly turn into world war 3.

So once you have your routine sorted, you should enjoy the setup process.

Comfort is perhaps the biggest question mark you have over weather traveling Australia in a Camper Trailer is right for you.

If we start with the bed, I have owned two camper trailers and the bed in both of them have been huge. I’m a fairly big lad and on a cold night, we can end up with the bloody dogs jumping in the bed. And I’ve never complained about having no room in the bed.

We have stayed in caravans before and ALL of them without fail my legs hang over the end. Yes I am tall at just a whisker under 6 foot 4. But still, I shouldn’t have my legs hanging over the end of the bed in a caravan that claims to be queen size.

With general living areas during the day, your individual results may vary depending on what sort of camper trailer you have (soft floor or hard floor). Lucky I have owned both, so I can comment on both.

The soft floor camper was huge when you folded it out. Enough room for a whole family to sleep. And awnings on camper trailers usually come with an annexe you can enclose, creating even more indoor space if you want it.

A hard floor camper will be typically smaller, but it has it’s benefits too. For example, our hard floor camper folds out to reveal a small lounge area with a table. It’s off the ground and very comfortable.

But it’s not even about indoor living is it?

Weather it’s a soft floor camper, a hard floor one, or a caravan, I find I spend almost all my time during the day OUTSIDE. Inside is just for sleeping.

This is where I feel the benefits of traveling around Australia in a camper trailer really shine. A caravan might have a small BBQ outside, but the rest of your cooking needs to be done inside.

With a camper trailer, if you are lucky enough to have a slide out kitchen, it will slide out in your outdoor annexe. For me, outdoor living and cooking is what traveling is all about.

Weather you are in a $200,000 caravan or a $200 swag, your travels will be as enjoyable as you want them to be. Don’t wait for the “perfect time” to go. You will spend your life planning the trip and never going on it.

Related Posts

Nt fishing adventures, finding work while traveling around australia, traveling australia and croc safety, free camping around australia, taking perfect sunrise and sunset photos, camp oven asian beef with rice.

How To Maximize Your Budget On An RV Road Trip

E mbarking on an affordable and unforgettable RV road trip requires thoughtful planning. You'll need to consider various factors to make the journey both economical and enjoyable. Whether you're planning a one-time road trip, adopting the digital nomad lifestyle, or embracing the "van life" movement, maximizing your budget is imperative. A well-structured budget sets the foundation for a financially sustainable adventure.

You may also be considering whether to rent or purchase an RV. If you own one, then DIY remodeling projects can be strategic investments that transform your RV into a budget-friendly haven. However, whether you choose to rent or buy, investing time in understanding the pros and cons of each can also help you maximize your budget. Ultimately, achieving an affordable and memorable RV road trip is a blend of strategic decision-making, resourceful planning, and a commitment to enjoying the journey within your means. For many of us,  planning a successful RV trip  means enjoying the journey without breaking the bank account.

Read more: Safety Items You Should Pack For Your Next Road Trip

Creating A Sensible And Realistic Budget

Navigating the financial landscape of an RV road trip demands a comprehensive approach, and this begins with building a well-structured budget that covers essential expenses. First, identify key costs on your journey, such as campsite fees and fuel, as these play a crucial role in allocating your resources effectively. You will also need to allocate funds for emergencies, meals, and entertainment. Additionally, factor in activity expenses, such as entrance fees to attractions or outdoor activities. Address these key factors of your trip, and organize it all in a budgeting system, whether it's a binder that categorizes your expenses or a budgeting app.

Utilizing budgeting apps such as Mint, YNAB, and PocketGuard can be instrumental in managing expenses. Choosing which app to use may come down to personal preference, as each app will provide its own unique features and functions. However, most budgeting apps offer some variation options that help you streamline your budget while ensuring that any costs saved contribute to and build an emergency fund. By integrating these apps into your financial toolkit and considering key costs, you empower yourself to navigate the road ahead with confidence and financial resilience.

Owning Versus Renting An RV

Owning an RV versus renting one is an important choice. Each option comes with its distinct advantages, challenges, and considerations. Owning an RV translates to equity, giving you an asset that may retain much of its value over time. You can also customize your RV to fit individual needs and preferences, and depending on how often you plan on using it, your RV will always be available for a spontaneous trip. However, the cons of ownership include high initial costs, ongoing maintenance expenses, depreciation of the RV's value, storing it, insurance, and registration fees. 

On the flip side, renting an RV eliminates the substantial upfront costs associated with ownership. You can experience the RV lifestyle without a long-term financial commitment. Renters also enjoy the flexibility of selecting different RV models for each trip. However, the cons of renting include a lack of customization options and a lack of availability during peak seasons. While renting reduces some financial burdens, such as maintenance and depreciation, it may be less cost-effective for those who plan to travel frequently. The decision between owning and renting will hinge on individual preferences, financial considerations, and how often you plan to travel in your RV. 

Factoring In Size And Amenities

When trying to decide which RV is right for you, start by evaluating your travel style and needs. Where you plan to go, how long you'll be traveling, and how you want to camp are all factors that come into play when choosing an RV. The number of people accompanying you is also important, dictating sleeping arrangements, packing, and overall comfort. When considering  the right size RV for your road trip , you'll first choose a class size. For instance, Class A motorhomes often boast spacious interiors with queen or king-sized beds in private bedrooms, providing comfort for couples or families, while Class C and B models are smaller but offer more flexibility. 

Class A RVs may offer full bathrooms with showers, fully equipped kitchens, comfortable sitting areas, separate bedrooms, and entertainment systems, enhancing the overall comfort of your journey. That said, large RVs are incredibly expensive to operate, and you'll have less flexibility when it comes to parking. However, if you're planning on towing a vehicle, you may need the size and towing capacity of a large RV. Along with Class A, B, and C RVs, you may also consider a smaller, towable camper trailer, which allows optimal maneuverability and better fuel efficiency, ideal for shorter trips and camping in remote locations.

Navigating Maintenance, Repair, And Emergency Costs

If you bought or plan to buy an RV, ensuring a smooth and stress-free RV journey involves taking proactive measures for maintenance, repairs, and emergency preparedness. By prioritizing preventative maintenance, you can better avoid unexpected costs that may arise from breakdowns on the road, keeping your budget in check. Preventative measures may include routine checks on your RV's engine, brakes, and fluid levels, as well as inspecting the roof for potential leaks and the tires for proper inflation and wear. 

While upkeep and maintenance will help, you'll still need to budget for potential repairs during your trip. This safety net is designed to cover unforeseen mechanical issues, such as engine trouble, transmission malfunctions, or plumbing leaks. Also, you can save lots of money by learning how to do some maintenance and repairs yourself. This may include learning how to troubleshoot electrical problems, fix plumbing issues, and perform basic engine repairs.

Before hitting the road, it's wise to schedule a final, pre-travel maintenance check with a professional mechanic. While this will cost you upfront, if a professional maintenance check prevents a breakdown during the trip, it's a cost-effective investment. Taking this precaution will help you reduce unnecessary or avoidable costs in maintenance, parts, and fees.

Cost-Saving And Smart Campsite Options

Now that your RV is ready to travel, there are strategic campsite planning strategies you can implement, especially if you plan to visit national parks and various locations while traveling, to maximize your budget. Some RV travelers save expenses by staying on unregulated public land, which is also known as boondocking. Joining RV clubs or purchasing memberships like Good Sam or Passport America can also open doors to valuable campground discounts. If you're a senior citizen, military personnel, or AAA member, you can also capitalize on special discounts when selecting campgrounds. 

You can also research and stick to free camping options, such as staying on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, national forests, and accommodating Walmarts or casinos. These are all examples of how to find  free overnight parking for your RV . You can also ask various RV parks if they offer discounts to members, which is something to consider if you plan on sticking to the same routes. Investing in an America the Beautiful Pass is also a savvy idea for maximizing your budget. After purchasing the annual pass, you'll receive free access to national parks and lands managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. This is a great option if you plan to frequently camp on these lands. 

Saving On Energy And Internet Costs

Efficiently managing both energy consumption and internet expenses is a key aspect of optimizing your RV lifestyle. Invest in energy-efficient appliances and lighting, such as LED bulbs, Energy Star-rated refrigerators, and high-efficiency air conditioners. Upgrading to modern, energy-conscious equipment, like smart thermostats and inverter-based generators, is also going to further enhance your RV's efficiency and maximize your budget. Inverter-based generators are also great options. They are quieter, more fuel-efficient, and produce cleaner power, minimizing their environmental impact.

For a more sustainable and self-sufficient approach, consider installing solar panels on your RV. This investment allows you to generate your own electricity, reducing reliance on RV park hookups and providing a cost-effective solution for long-term energy needs. While you can utilize free Wi-Fi at campsites and public places whenever possible, you can also enhance your connectivity with Wi-Fi extenders and boosters, giving you a stronger and more reliable signal, especially if you are working while traveling. 

You can also explore RV-specific Wi-Fi plans that cater to the unique needs of mobile living. Alternatively, leveraging your existing phone provider plans for hotspot capabilities can be a cost-effective solution, or consider a portable router to create a dedicated Wi-Fi network in your RV. In truth, whether you're a road trip cheapskate  trying to save as much money as possible or a traveler transitioning into a nomad lifestyle, trimming down your energy and internet expenses isn't difficult with planning.

Efficient Waste Management And Water Conservation

As an RV owner or renter, you'll have to find dump stations for both your gray water (nontoilet water sources) and black water (toilet-specific) tanks. Efficient waste management is crucial for a cost-effective RV lifestyle. To avoid incurring fees at campgrounds, locate free or low-cost dump stations for emptying your RV's waste tanks. Websites and apps like Sanidumps and RV Dump Sites  provide comprehensive directories of dump stations across the country, offering a convenient way to plan your route with waste disposal in mind. You'll also need the tools and supplies to dump your waste, such as the hose and hose attachments.

Practicing water conservation is a smart strategy to extend the time between fill-ups. You can install water-efficient faucets and showerheads, as well as opt for a composting toilet and water filters. These sustainable practices also ensure you have access to clean and safe drinking water throughout your journey, providing a budget-friendly and eco-conscious solution. While these may seem like additional measures, in the end, they conserve resources and help lower overall RVing costs. 

Fuel Efficiency And Navigation

Your choice of navigation apps can play a pivotal role in overall convenience and reducing gas costs. For those engaging in long, extended travels, RV-specific GPS apps and websites become invaluable for seamless navigation. Take advantage of destination apps such as inRoute, CoPilot RV, and RV Trip Wizard, which are designed to guide RVers on routes suitable for their vehicles. 

Along with maximizing your fuel budget by using apps or websites, you can also incorporate fuel-efficient driving techniques that improve your gas mileage while traveling. Maintaining a steady speed, using cruise control, reducing weight, and avoiding idling all contribute to your overall fuel savings. To complement these efforts, you can find the best fuel prices along your route through apps like GasBuddy and Gas Guru. 

When considering fuel-efficient RV options, classes like Class B RVs (campervans) and Class C RVs with smaller chassis are known for better fuel efficiency compared to larger Class A models. Towable trailers and hybrid RVs also offer advantages in weight and aerodynamics, contributing to your potential fuel efficiency. 

Meal Planning And Food Costs

To save money on food when RVing, you can apply the same budget-friendly tips you may practice at home. This may include buying produce in season, meal planning, and purchasing non-perishable, versatile ingredients that can be used in multiple dishes. For example, grains, legumes, and canned goods are efficient choices that save space and offer diverse meal options. To further streamline your dining budget, consider a combination of groceries and prepared foods. But, at the end of the day, your food costs will come down to your food preferences, the number of people you're traveling with, if you plan to buy food at popular attractions, eating out habits, and how remote you'll be. 

If you're not too remote, then save money on groceries by strategically shopping and planning ahead. Download the apps of common supermarkets near your route to access exclusive deals and promotions. Utilize digital coupons through these apps or traditional couponing websites to cut down on grocery costs. Exploring affordable dining options on the road is another budget-friendly strategy. Look for local farmers' markets for fresh and often more affordable produce. 

Additionally, while this is a no-brainer, preparing meals versus eating out will almost always be less expensive. Also, cooking your meals at your RV campsite, using communal grills or fire pits, can cut down on utility costs. By integrating these tips into your meal planning and grocery shopping, you can both save money and immerse yourself in the RV communities at campgrounds. 

Entertainment And Activities

Many regions offer free parks or public spaces where you can unwind and enjoy scenic views. National parks often have free admission days, providing an excellent opportunity to explore iconic landscapes without breaking the bank. Or, as previously mentioned, you can invest in an America the Beautiful Pass. To save money on activities, choose budget-friendly outdoor activities and seek out local events or festivals happening along your route. These activities can offer you a chance to immerse yourself in the culture and entertainment of different communities at little or no cost. 

Equip your RV with onboard entertainment options like a TV and movies for cozy nights in. Consider streaming services or DVDs that you already own to minimize additional expenses. You can also plan to use devices such as AppleTV or ROKU to minimize the amount of equipment in your RV. Utilizing free or low-cost campground amenities, such as communal game rooms and libraries, is also a great option, especially when traveling with kids.

When managing entertainment expenses, plan ahead by setting a budget for activities like movie nights or dining out. Take advantage of discount programs or memberships, like AAA, which may offer savings on attractions and services. You don't have to sacrifice entertainment when traveling, but by incorporating these tips, you can strike a balance between enjoying quality entertainment and keeping your budget intact during your travels.

Be Flexible But Prepared

To both potentially save money and create memorable experiences, maintain flexibility in your RV journey. Be open to last-minute changes in your itinerary, allowing you to capitalize on unexpected attractions or discounts. Be open to meeting other travelers and taking advice while on the road. This collaborative approach not only fosters camaraderie; it can also help you save money. Trust us, you're not the only one trying to maximize your road trip budget, and seasoned RVers are typically excited to share insider info.

In the spirit of flexibility, it's also important to spend money when necessary instead of "risking it." For example, if you need to choose between driving through inclement weather or pulling over at a roadside hotel or nearby campsite for the night, stay safe and embrace the change of plans. No amount of cost-saving planning is more important than the safety of you and your passengers. After all, you have emergency funds for a reason. By striking a balance between flexibility and budget-planning preparedness, you can navigate your RV journey safely and with confidence.

Read the original article on Explore .

Travels with Ted

RV and Road Trip Fuel Cost Calculator

RV travel and road trips are the ultimate ways to travel and explore all of America’s beautiful landscapes. However, the cost of fuel is a major deterrent for some potential road trippers and RVers. Use the below RV and Road Trip Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate how much an RV road trip will actually cost.

For more great RV camping and road trip tips and recommendations, check out our RV travel blog !

• 1 RV and Road Trip Fuel Cost Calculator
• 2 Using the RV and Road Trip Fuel Cost Calculator
• 3 Average Miles per Gallon by RV Type
• 4.1 Drive Slow
• 4.2 Remove Excess Weight
• 4.3 Use Apps to Find the Best Gas Price

If you need help determining your vehicle’s average miles per gallon or current fuel prices, please see the resources below the calculator.

Using the RV and Road Trip Fuel Cost Calculator

These tips will help you make the most accurate RV fuel cost calculations.

• To find current fuel prices, visit the AAA website for a current list of gas and diesel prices by state.
• The best way to calculate your RV’s average miles per gallon is to track it on your trips. Simply divide the number of miles you traveled by the number of gallons of fuel your vehicle took to refill.
• If you do not have mileage data for your RV or tow vehicle, see the chart below for average miles per gallon by vehicle type.

Average Miles per Gallon by RV Type

Below is the typical fuel efficiency of each type of RV. Miles per gallon will vary based on your individual RV’s fuel efficiency, the types of roads you are driving on, your speed and your RV’s weight.

Tips to Save Money on Gas on Road Trips

If the above calculation indicates that the cost of gas will impact for your RV road trip plans, remember there are ways to increase your average miles per gallon to save money!

According to fueleconomy.gov , fuel efficiency usually decreases rapidly at speeds above 50 miles per hour. For every 5 miles per hour you drive over 50 miles per hour, they estimate you will pay an additional $0.24 per gallon for gas.

Aggressive driving (speeding, rapid acceleration and braking) also wastes gas. Keep your RV road trip gas cost in check by driving at a steady speed. Using cruise control is a great way to keep your speed slow and constant.

Remove Excess Weight

RVs should not be over weighted for a number of reasons, and gas mileage is one of them. According to fueleconomy.gov, an extra 100 pounds in your vehicle could reduce your MPG by about 1%.

Evaluate every item brought into your RV and try to limit heavy items. Traveling with empty holding tanks is also recommended to avoid excess weight while driving.

Use Apps to Find the Best Gas Price

The easiest way to save money on RV gas (or gas for any road trip) is to find better gas prices. Always use an app, such as GasBuddy, to located the best fuel price in your surrounding area.

On long travel days, check prices all the way along your route to determine the most affordable places to fill up.

Click here to see more essential RV travel apps.

Pin It For Later

We hope our RV and Road Trip Fuel Cost Calculator was a helpful tool in planning your upcoming road trip or RV vacation!

If you are considering living in an RV or taking an extended RV road trip, check out our guide to RV budget planning . Our budget guide details all the expenses associated with RV life to help you create a personalized and accurate budget.

Happy Camping!

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

We custom design our drill-less mud flaps to any size and then shift them to fit with your aftermarket wheels

16726 146th St SE Suite 171

Monroe, WA 98272

541-245-9148

[email protected]

No products in the cart.

100% Secure Checkout

Four RV Road Trips for Peak Fall Foliage

As the summer heat fades into the crisp air of autumn, there’s no better way to embrace the change of seasons than an RV road trip to chase the changing leaves. The freedom of the open road teamed with the vibrant reds, oranges, and golds, makes for one unforgettable journey. Here’s how you can plan the ultimate fall foliage RV adventure, from four of the best routes to essential tips for a smooth and scenic trip.

Planning Your Route: The Best Destinations for Fall Foliage

To maximize your fall foliage road trip, you need to choose the right route at the right time. Here are four top destinations and peak foliage times.

1. New England

The crown jewel of fall foliage, New England is a must for leaf peepers. Starting your journey in Maine and working your way down through New Hampshire via the Kancamagus Highway and Vermont’s Route 100 will leave you with breathtaking views all the way to the Berkshires of Massachusetts.

Best Campground: Franconia Notch State Park in New Hampshire’s White Mountains offers stunning views and easy access to the Kancamagus Highway.

Peak Foliage: Late September to mid-October

2. Blue Ridge Parkway

Stretching from Virginia to North Carolina through the Appalachian Mountains, The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile scenic drive through a symphony of autumn colors. Be sure to stop at overlooks and hike to waterfalls to thoroughly take in the rolling mountains blanketed in red, orange, and gold.

Best Campground: With several campgrounds along the Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park in Virginia puts you right in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Peak Foliage: Mid to late October

3. Upper Peninsula, Michigan

A more off-the-beaten-path adventure, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula offers an unforgettable fall foliage experience. Lake Superior’s southern shore and Tahquamenon Falls State Park offer a stunning display of fall colors that contrast beautifully with the region’s pristine waters.

Best Campground: Located in the Upper Peninsula, Michigan’s Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park offers breathtaking views of Lake Superior and the surrounding forests.

Peak Foliage: Late September through October

4. The Great Smoky Mountains

Straddling the North Carolina and Tennessee border, The Great Smoky Mountains is renowned for its biodiversity year-round, but it becomes a prime destination for fall foliage in the fall. The diverse range of the park’s trees turns it into a canvas of color every fall.

Best Campground: The remote Cades Cove valley is surrounded by mountains, providing a peaceful setting in which to enjoy the fall colors.

Peak Foliage: Mid-October to early November

RV Essentials for a Fall Foliage Trip

Traveling by RV offers flexibility and comfort, but it’s essential to be prepared for fall travel:

Weather-Ready RV: Autumn weather can be unpredictable. Ensure your RV’s heating system is in good working order, and consider packing extra blankets and warm clothing. Don’t forget to check the tires and ensure they are ready for potentially slick roads due to rain or early snow. A new set of custom mud flaps from DuraFlap to protect your vehicle from dents and dings on the road is also a good idea.

Campground Reservations: Fall is a popular time for camping, so make your campground reservations early. Many campgrounds offer stunning foliage views right from your campsite, so take advantage of this by choosing sites with scenic surroundings.

Scenic Overlooks and Stops: Part of the joy of an RV trip is the ability to stop wherever the scenery is most captivating. Plan for plenty of stops at scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and small towns. These pauses enhance your experience and give you time to truly soak in the beauty of fall.

Local Festivals and Harvest Events: Autumn is also the season of harvest festivals, farmers’ markets, and craft fairs. Check for events along your route to add a local flavor to your journey. Enjoying fresh apple cider, pumpkin patches, and local crafts can be a delightful way to experience the culture of the regions you pass through.

Chase the Changing Leaves with DuraFlap

A fall foliage RV road trip lets you chase the changing leaves at your own pace. Whether you’re hiking through a forest of fiery red maples, sipping coffee by a serene lake, or simply enjoying the view from your RV window, take the time to immerse yourself in the moment.

From the winding roads of New England to the vast stretches of the Blue Ridge Parkway, make sure your tow rig or RV is road-ready with a new set of mud flaps from DuraFlap . Made in the USA, our high-quality mud flaps protect your RV from road debris. Whether you choose our ClassicLine or new BlackLine design, your vehicle will have the most protection with a style that’s all yours. Contact us for more information , pack your bags, load up the RV, and prepare for a colorful fall adventure.

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Guy's All-American Road Trip

The Fieris are hittin' the road in their RV -- along with a caravan of family and friends -- for an epic journey from Northern California through Oregon and up into Washington. They're in for big adventure, fun competitions and unbelievable feasts that go way beyond standard camping fare. more

The Fieris are hittin' the road in their RV -- along with a carav ... More

Starring: Guy Fieri

Add Max to any Hulu plan starting at an additional  $9.99/month .*

*The price of the Max (No Ads) Add-on will increase to $16.99/month on 9/17/24. Hulu free trial available for new and eligible returning Hulu subscribers only. Cancel anytime. Additional terms apply. HBO content available via Hulu. Additional content only available via Max app. Hulu with Max is only accessible in the U.S. and certain U.S. territories where a high-speed broadband connection is available. Use of Max is subject to its own terms and conditions, see max.com/terms-of-use/en-us for details. Programming and content subject to change. Max is used under license. ©2024 Warner Bros. Ent. All rights reserved. TM & © DC.

The Fieris are hittin' the road in their RV -- along with a caravan of family and friends -- for an epic journey from Northern California through Oregon and up into Washington. They're in for big adventure, fun competitions and unbelievable feasts that go way beyond standard camping fare.

2 seasons available (8 episodes)

About this Show

@media screen and (min-width: 375px){.css-fuu2mr{font-family:"Graphik Web",sans-serif;font-size:14px;font-weight:600;line-height:1;letter-spacing:0.6px;text-transform:uppercase;}}@media screen and (min-width: 1440px){.css-fuu2mr{font-family:"Graphik Web",sans-serif;font-size:18px;font-weight:600;line-height:1;letter-spacing:0.6px;text-transform:uppercase;}} You May Also Like

Sports Add-on

Español Add-on

Entertainment Add-on

Select Your Plan

Streaming library with tons of tv episodes and movies, up to 6 user profiles, no ads in streaming library, download and watch, available add-ons.