Anyone who’s ever had the desire to travel has had the urge to plan a road trip, right? Picture yourself hitting the open road for the adventure of a lifetime, be it the Nevada desert in the United States, the winding clifftops of Italy’s stunning Amalfi Coast or bouncing along the dirt roads of Southeast Asia like something out of a Top Gear special.
Whatever your idea of a dream road trip, the car hire that you opt for in each case can be staggeringly different. It’s never a case of one size fits all. There are so many elements to take into consideration when planning your drive, and for it to be a success, choosing the right car is of paramount importance. Here are some of the best cars to choose from for your upcoming road trip.
Best for Exploring Cities
If you’re planning on travelling busy and congested roads and doing a lot of stopping and starting, then you need a car that’s going to be as economical as possible. A city road trip means that you’re likely to be doing a lot of maneuvering into tight parking spaces and only driving relatively short bursts of driving. In which case, a smaller car is perhaps going to suit you best.
Opt for: Kia Picanto
Best for Off-The-Beaten-Track
If the big trip is going to involve a lot of off-roading, travelling on bumpy surfaces or terrain that’s about as far from a road as you can get, then you’re going to need a sturdy car that’s cut out for the job. It’s got to be a four-wheel drive with a good suspension, a big enough engine and tires that are designed to withstand the rough and tumble.
Opt for: Land Rover Discovery
Best for Going the Distance
If the route you’re taking is going to see you covering some miles, then you need a car that’s reliable and comfortable. The last thing you want to be dealing with is your vehicle breaking down part-way through your journey, impacting the itinerary and putting a dampener on your whole holiday. Choose something that you know is up for the challenge and won’t let you down.
Opt for: Mercedes Benz S-Class
Best Convertible
For some of us, the car that we take on a road trip is less about practicality and more about how we look. When you conjure up the image of the ultimate road trip in your head, chances are it’s in a classic convertible with your sunglasses on and the wind blowing in your hair. It’s all about the Instagram photos after all, right?
Opt for: Ford Mustang Convertible
Best for all the Family
Plan for an adventure that the whole family can enjoy and give the kids memories to last a lifetime. A family road trip needs a car that’s spacious, comfortable, smooth, and durable. There’ll be naps being had, games being played, snacks being eaten, and plenty of luggage to fit in. Big cargo space and lots of leg room is a must.
Opt for: Volvo XC90
Know what you need? Now you should be all set to pack your bags, hop in your ideal car, and hit the road for a truly unforgettable journey.
Ben Campbell is an accomplished and experienced freelance writer who has featured in a number of high profile publications and websites. If he’s not reading the financial times you’ll find him listening to live music or at the coast surfing.
