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Travels with Ted

10 Epic Bucket List RV Road Trips in the US

This post may contain affiliate links. See our affiliate disclaimer here.

I’ve lived in an RV since 2016 and traveled thousands of miles across the country (and into Mexico and Canada). In this guide to the best bucket list road trips in the USA, I share my favorite RV road trips.

Ready to start planning your own RV trip across America? Let’s get started.

• 1.1 Renting an RV
• 1.2 Finding Campgrounds
• 1.3 Buying Gear for your RV Road Trip
• 2.1 Olympic Peninsula
• 2.2 Utah National Parks
• 2.3 Route 66
• 2.4 California’s Pacific Coast
• 2.5 Blue Ridge Parkway
• 2.6 South Florida
• 2.7 Upper Peninsula of Michigan
• 2.8 Columbia River Gorge
• 2.9 Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon
• 2.10 North to Alaska

Planning your RV Road Trip

If you are already an experienced or full-time RVer, go ahead and skip down to the bucket list RV road trips . Otherwise, here are some key planning tools to utilize before your first RV trip.

Renting an RV

If you do not already own an RV, it is best to rent a rig for your first RV road trip in the USA. A rental RV allows you to test drive the type, layout, and travel style of an RV before you make a large investment.

RVshare allows you to rent fifth wheels, travel trailers and motorhomes directly from local owners. They have every type of rig available, and you can filter by price and features to pick the perfect RV.

Finding Campgrounds

After you’ve secured an RV, you need to find places to sleep. Fortunately, there are several great apps to help you find campgrounds and RV parks in the USA. If you are visiting an area during the peak season (i.e. Winter in Florida) you will need to make campground reservations in advance.

However, if you are traveling during less busy times, it is best to leave a few open days between reservations so you can be more spontaneous.

To find RV parks and campgrounds, download the AllStays Camp & RV app ($9.99). The AllStays app has an interactive map that allows you to find campsites directly along your route.

AllStays has the most comprehensive list of campgrounds and RV parks for people RVing in the USA. The app also shows truck stops, dump stations and RV services so you can easily find fuel and supplies.

For free RV camping , use the Campendium website to find no cost RV campsites. Free camping is a great way to save money and find more secluded locations.

However, most free campsites do not offer water, electric or sewer hook-ups, so you should be prepared to “rough it.” If you plan on dry camping or boondocking at free campsites, choose a rental RV that has a generator on board.

If you are planning an extended RV round trip, consider joining one or more RV membership clubs to enjoy discounted camping fees.

Buying Gear for your RV Road Trip

The last step in the planning process for an RV road trip is buying all the gear you need. Review our Amazon list of must have RV supplies and either buy them or verify that your rental RV comes equipped with the proper gear.

I also highly recommend buying a road trip journal to record your adventures and experiences RVing in the USA.

10 Best RV Road Trips in the USA

Olympic peninsula.

Driving highway 101 around the Olympic Peninsula is a short but sweet RV road trip. The complete Olympic Peninsula rod trip is just over 300 miles, so it can easily be completed in a few days.

On the other hand, there is so much to see in this region you could also stay for weeks. The main attraction on the Peninsula is Olympic National Park which features a lush rain forest, stunning mountain peaks, crystal clear lakes and the Pacific Coast.

There are plenty of RV campground options in the area. There are several private campgrounds just off highway 101 and there are 10 campgrounds in the National Park that can accommodate RVs.

Most National Park campsites are designed for RVs up to 21 feet long, and none of them accept rigs over 35 feet. If you plan to camp in the park, make sure to travel in a smaller RV.

While the National Park is the main feature, there are several other sights to see along this route. For incredible views, take a side trip to Cape Flattery, the most northwesterly tip of the contiguous 48 states.

To reach Cape Flattery, first head to the town of Neah Bay from highway 112. In Neah Bay, go as far west as you can, follow signs to Cape Flattery Road and head south. After 7.7 miles the road will take you to the trail head parking lot.

Don’t forget to stop in Neah Bay and purchase a Makah Recreation Pass , which is required to hike on the trail. The trail is an easy 1.5 mile round trip that winds through the forest and ends in stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Utah National Parks

Utah has five National Parks with jaw dropping scenery. Combining all five parks into a single road trip is an unforgettable adventure, and one of my personal favorite experiences RVing in the USA.

Start your adventure in Zion National Park then drive on Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches and Canyonlands. Allot at least 2 days in each park to make sure you have ample time to hike and relax. Since most of the trails in National Parks are not pet-friendly, this is not a great RV road trip with dogs.

All of the Utah National Parks, except Canyonlands, have RV-friendly campgrounds that can be reserved in advance. Reservations are accepted 6 months ahead of time and should be made exactly 6 months in advance for summer reservations.

None of the NPS campgrounds offer electric hook-ups, so RVers looking for more comfort should stay in private campgrounds near the parks. Reservations for RV parks also need to be made at least six months in advance to guarantee availability.

Don’t forget to add a few Utah State parks into your road trip itinerary. Dead Horse Point State Park, located just outside of Canyonlands, offers dramatic views of the Colorado River and the pinnacles of Canyonlands.

This state park has two campgrounds with 30 and 50 amp electric outlets. An hour from Zion, Sand Hollow State Park is a great summer stop if you are looking to get in the water.

The main feature of this state park is a refreshing reservoir with boat rentals. Their Westside campground also offers spacious campsites with full hook-ups.

Route 66, also know as the Mother Road, is the most iconic and celebrated RVing route in the USA. Historic Route 66 covers over 2,400 miles, starting in Chicago and ending at Santa Monica, California.

For the classic experience, I would recommend sticking to the westernmost portion of the route. This area features many kitschy attractions that will take you back in time. Start your journey in Amarillo, TX and take Route 66 all the way to the Pacific Ocean in California.

There are many RV campgrounds along historical Route 66. Simply use the AllStays app to find campgrounds with good reviews at your desired stopping points.

State park campgrounds are a good option if you are looking to incorporate more outdoor adventures into your road trip. Consider camping at Santa Rosa Lake, Homolovi Ruins and Malibu Creek State Parks.

Hualapai Mountain Park, 11-miles off of the road in Arizona, offers a great break from the desert. The campground sits in the Hualapai Mountain Range, so you can enjoy views of the desert below from a cooler elevation.

You want to take your time driving down Route 66, so you have plenty of time to stop for roadside attractions and detours. Starting in Amarillo, check out the Cadillac Ranch, an art installation made using old Cadillac cars.

During your RV road trip, stop at the ghost town of Oatman, Arizona that has a friendly local population of wild burros.

California’s Pacific Coast

The Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) hugs the Pacific Coast of California for 650 miles. The route is best driven from north to south, so you are on the ocean side of the road for the entire drive.

This coastal road trip is not for the faint of heart. The route features winding turns, small shoulders and big drop offs. I would recommend this RV road trip for more experienced drivers not first time RVers. Drive slow and plan short days to keep this drive fun and safe.

There are several state park campgrounds and private RV parks available along Highway 1. Spend a few days at the San Francisco RV Resort just outside of the city. This resort is pricey, but it features stunning ocean views, full hook-ups and easy access to the city.

Also stop at Doheny State Beach campground in Dana Point. This campground does not have any hook-ups, but there are campsites available right on the beach.

One of the most iconic stops along the California Coast is Big Sur. Plan to spend at least a few days of your road trip exploring this area.

The hike to McWay Falls should definitely be on your travel and adventure bucket list. The trail is less than a mile, but the views are incredible. You can access the trail head directly off of Highway 1.

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway stretches through the mountains from Afton, Virginia to Cherokee, North Carolina (my home state). This road is an iconic route for people RVing in the USA.

There are plenty of overlooks and the speed limit never exceeds 45 mile per hour, making for a leisurely RV road trip. The route has many sweeping curves, but is generally easy to drive without many tight turns. The vistas are stunning during the peak fall season when the leaves are changing, but be prepared for crowds during this time.

There are eight National Park Service Campgrounds on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Most of these campgrounds do not have hook-ups, but they offer potable water, bathrooms with flush toilets, picnic tables, fire rings and RV dump stations.

These campgrounds are open from May to October for a fee of $20 per night. If you are looking for higher-end accommodations, there a plenty of private RV parks a short drive off the parkway. Near Asheville, North Carolina, spend a night or two at the stunning mountaintop RV sites at Mama Gertie’s Hideaway Camp.

Views and hiking are the two main features of the Blue Ridge Parkway. One of our favorite hikes in the area is Crabtree Falls. The trail head is located at milepost 339.5.

There are two trail options: an easier 3 mile out and back hike on the same trail or a more strenuous 3.5 mile loop trail that climbs a ridge above the falls. The main feature of the hike is the 70 foot waterfall but there are also beautiful wildflowers in the early summer.

South Florida

If you are looking for a winter destination to RV in the USA, look no further than the Sunshine State. While many RVers park in one spot for the winter, a Florida road trip is a much better adventure.

I recommend starting your Florida road trip near Everglades National Park and driving down the Florida Keys.

Start your trip at the Miami Everglades RV Resort, a full hook-up RV park near the Everglades that offers amenities including a pool and game room. In the Keys, Sunshine Key RV Resort is another high-end RV park located right on the water.

For a more affordable camping option in the Keys, stay at Bahia Honda State Park which offers campsites with electric for $38 per night. Be sure to make your campground reservations six to twelve months in advance to avoid being stuck without a place to stay.

If you make it all the way to Key West, consider leaving your RV behind for the day to visit Dry Tortugas National Park. The park which is an island 70 miles west of Key West is only accessible by boat or seaplane.

Daily ferries shuttle visitors from Key West to the park, or you can arrive in style by flying in with Key West Seaplane Adventures. Once you arrive, you can spend the day swimming, snorkeling and exploring the 19th century fort.

Upper Peninsula of Michigan

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan (The U.P.) is a beautiful natural playground for campers RVing in the USA. Summer is the best time to visit when you can count on warm, pleasant weather.

The U.P. is accessed from I-75 on the lower peninsula of Michigan. From there, you can plan your own route around the U.P.

Straits State Park is a great place to start and end your U.P. RV road trip. Located right after the bridge onto the Upper Penninsula, the park has two campgrounds with electric hook-ups. From this location, you can easily access the ferry to car-free Mackinac Island.

Also consider staying at Indian Lake State Park which offers lake front campsites. There are also plenty of private campgrounds on the U.P. for the remainder of your road trip.

Just 10 minutes from Indian Lake State Park is The Big Spring ( Kitch-iti-kipi ) . The natural spring has crystal clear blue water that makes for a beautiful photo opportunity.

While you can’t swim in the spring, the park offers a self-operated observation raft that you can take out onto the water. Through observation windows on the raft floor, you can see trout swimming below. Also, don’t forget to eat a Pasty, a local meat pie delicacy.

Columbia River Gorge

The drive along the Columbia River Gorge is one of the most scenic drives in the Pacific Northwest. The gorge reaches heights of 4,000 feet, and the river serves as the boundary between Oregon and Washington.

I recommend starting in Troutdale, Oregon and driving on Interstate 84 to at least Hood River. This trip is a very short drive, but you can extend the trip by taking detours over the river to the Washington side.

This is a perfect first time RV road trip, allowing you to drive just 30 minutes between RV parks.

In Troutdale, stay at the Sandy Riverfront RV resort. This full hook-up campground offers direct access to the Sandy River where you can swim and float on hot summer days.

At the end of your trip, stay at the Blue Barn Grill & RV park on the Washington side of the river. In between, small RVs (20 feet max) can stay at the Eagle Creek campground within the National Scenic Area.

Even though the Columbia River Gorge is a short trip, it is not lacking in activities. There are stunning waterfalls, local breweries and hundreds of hiking trails to explore. One can’t miss hike along the gorge is Beacon Rock.

The trail is a one-mile hike up the 848 foot Beacon Rock, the core of an ancient volcano. The hike involves many switchbacks and steep drop-offs, but handrails make it safe for even casual hikers. At the top you are rewarded with vast views of the Columbia River Gorge.

Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon

If you are looking to incorporate both city life and the great outdoors into your RV road trip, consider driving from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon. The drive from Las Vegas to the south rim is just over four hours, but you can spend a significant amount of time at each destination.

If you are renting an RV , you can take a round trip route so you can fly in and out of Las Vegas. Alternatively, this trip can be combined with a Utah National Park or Route 66 road trip for a longer adventure.

There are many large RV resorts around Las Vegas that offer pools, outdoor activities and shuttles to casinos. If you want to stay right on The Strip, camp at Circus Circus RV Park. The campground offers full hook-up sites on the Circus Circus property, and campers have access to all the same amenities as hotel guests.

Once you reach the Grand Canyon , stay at the Trailer Village campground which offers full hook-up RV sites close to the south rim of the canyon.

Don’t forget to stop along the way to the canyon and explore Arizona a little more. Stop in the town of Chloride for some history and culture. The old silver mining town now features some interesting art with many residents creating junk art sculptures on their property.

Just outside of town, park the RV and walk 1.5 up a rough dirt road to see the murals of Chloride miner, Roy Purcell. Painted in 1966, these murals are a sight to see, covering 2,000 square feet of rocks and granite.

North to Alaska

Once you have completed some shorter road trips RVing in the USA, consider upping your road trip game and driving to Alaska. Leaving from Washington state, you can drive through British Columbia and The Yukon to reach Alaska.

Allow an absolute minimum of one month for this RV road trip, so you have plenty of time for driving and exploring. Ideally, this RV road trip would take two to three months so you have plenty of time to explore Western Canada as well.

On the route to Alaska, you will find plenty of RV parks off the highway. The AllStays app will help you find campsites in the US, as well as Canada.

Once you arrive in Alaska, the whole state is your campground. Alaska is one of the few places in the USA where it is legal to camp almost anywhere. Check out Call to Wander’s post for some Alaska campsite recommendations.

Once you reach Alaska, be sure to make it to Denali National Park. The park features Denali, the highest peak in North America, as well as plentiful wildlife.

The only entrance to the park is 240 miles north of Anchorage off Alaska Highway 3. There are RV-friendly campgrounds within the park, so you can enjoy the experience of camping right beside the natural wonders.

If you are new to RV travel, download our free RV setup and departure checklists to guide you when parking and packing up the RV.

Also, save our list of 250 road trip questions to help pass the time while you are driving.

Happy Camping!

Christina Pate is a seasoned full-time RVer who, along with her husband Justin, has journeyed across the US, Canada, and Mexico. Drawing from her extensive travels, RV repairs and RV renovations, she founded Travels with Ted to guide and inspire fellow RV enthusiasts. Christina is also the co-author of The Owner’s Guide to RV Maintenance and the creator of My RV Log Book .

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

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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!

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5 Great RV Road Trip Routes in the United States

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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.

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

• Last Updated: June 3, 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.

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The Best RV Trip Planner

RV Trip Planning has never been easier. Save time, plan safe RV routes, find great campgrounds.

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Best-In-Class Features

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See the Route you are taking, with Campgrounds, Gas Stops, points of interest and more.

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It customizes RV safe Routes to the height & weight of your RV. Avoid low clearances, steep grades, and propane restrictions.

Over 20,000 Campgrounds

Browse from ALL Campground Affiliations (Good Sam, Passport America, etc...). No Restrictions like other tools.

Over 57,000 Points of Interest

The fun of travel and exploring is finding unique places. We have an ever-growing list of locations to choose from.

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Have a web browser? Of course you do, so don't worry about downloading any applications, or applying updates. Its all built on the web.

Rank Your Memberships

If you have a membership like Good Sam, Escapees, or dozens of others, you can rank them so you can find the best value parks.

Understand the Cost of your Trip

The Wiz will help to estimate the cost of your trip with Gas and Campground Fees. Updated as you update your trip.

Set Driving Times and Distances

Set your Driving Distances and the map will show you if you may have stretched yourself too thin on a leg of your trip.

How RV LIFE Trip Wizard can help you

Watch a quick video to learn about some of the many features that make RV LIFE Trip Wizard the best choice for RVers looking to save time and money with their Trip Planning.

All The Information you need

See all the information you're looking for on your devices. Our Trip Planner is set up so you can do everything from one screen. Your trip on the left panel, your map centered, and your research panel to the right to find campgrounds, points of interest, and potential hazards.

An RV GPS in your pocket

Combine RV LIFE Trip Wizard with the RV LIFE App, and we'll make the days you head out the road a breeze. Get RV Safe GPS routing right on your phone or tablet with the RV LIFE App. RV LIFE Trip Wizard seamlessly integrates its trips into your app.

Simple & Affordable

Hear from some people who love using it.

My husband and I are full time RVers in a 45ft 5th wheel toy hauler. I use RV Trip Wizard to plan our route. It has made my trip planning so much easier since I can filter out campgrounds that cannot accommodate our trailer. The ability to check reviews and to go to the campgrounds' websites from the app is also extremely useful. I recommend RV Trip Wizard to other RVers all the time.

If you are worried about low bridges on your trip or where the best, low cost parks are, worry no more because this App is absolutely the best RV trip planer out there. We've tried them all and this ones smokes them all. Spot on! If you have a smart phone or a tablet, RV Trip Wizard works with either, we absolutely rely on it and would not leave our home without planning our route with this tool first. Highly recommend it…

We took a 3 month trip last year and I looked for a good trip planner. I tried winging it with google earth and researching the internet at first. Then I found RV Trip Wizard. I thought I try it. Just a few hours in to planning our trip I was hooked. It has everything I need to plan our trips. Way worth the small price. And the great part it's got better since last years trip. They keep adding and making it better all the time. I've got this years about ready to go and a few small side trips already planned.

Works on All Popular Computers and Tablets

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.

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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.

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Planning an RV Trip: The Complete Guide

• Pros and Cons of RV Travel
• Motorhome vs. Towing a Trailer
• Where to Park an RV
• Choosing the Right RV
• RV Park Review Sites
• Reserving a Parking Spot
• Music Festivals
• Disney World
• National Parks
• Best for Families
• Dog-Friendly RV Parks
• RVing With Alcohol
• Driving on Icy Roads
• Accident and Emergency Guide
• Best Weather Apps
• How to Find Cheap Rentals
• RV vs. Motel: Where to Stay
• Guide to RV Warranties
• Budget-Friendly Parking
• Best RVs to Buy
• Maximizing Gas Mileage

Buying an RV

• Towing a Car
• Turning an RV
• Cleaning an RV
• Sleeping Tips
• Propane Guide

Contributing $114 billion to the U.S. economy in 2019, RVing is one of the fastest-growing trends inspiring solo travelers, families, and couples to hit the road. RV travel allows you to visit areas you might not travel to otherwise. You can drive on your own time and stay at some of the most majestic places on earth.

Whether you’ve planned an RV trip before or it’s your first time, you’ll learn something from our complete planning guide.

Planning Your Trip

The great thing about planning an RV trip is the endless possibilities of destinations and the flexibility of the trip; you can rent an RV just about anywhere, meaning you can fly to a closer point, or you can leave right from your own home.

When choosing routes and destinations for a first-time trip, do your research and plan to stick to the proven routes; don’t venture off the path too much, especially if you’re not used to driving a motorhome or towing a trailer . Once you’ve tackled a few easier trips, you’ll be more comfortable going off the beaten path.

National and state parks will be expensive, and the most crowded during the summer months. Try to visit these popular spots on shoulder seasons for a more enjoyable experience. Book ahead to save the most money and make sure you can secure your entry when you plan to go.

Transportation

One of the first decisions to make: will you rent or buy an RV? Depending on how often you want to RV, buying one to call your own will be the more cost-efficient option. If you’re renting, you’ll want to rent early, off-season, and get the right size for your companions to get the best deal.

Renting an RV

Renting an RV can be done at rental agencies or dealers. If this is your first time hitting the road, we recommend renting from an agency, such as Cruise America , which will help you choose the right motorhome. Since it’s your first time, chances are you won’t have a towing vehicle or want to tow a trailer; you’re not used to towing, so going with a motorhome will be more comfortable and safer for you on the road.

Here are a few things to keep in mind about renting an RV:

• Prices will fluctuate based on availability and seasonality.
• Motorhomes will go between $175 to $275 per night on average for an older model (10 years and older), depending on the Class you rent. Newer RVs run between $150 to $450 per night on average .
• Trailers are often the cheapest option going between $50 to $125 per night on average.
• Fifth wheels go between $60 to $150 per night on average.
• For trailers and fifth wheels, you’ll need to have a vehicle capable of towing safely, or you’ll need to rent a vehicle to tow.
• RV websites like Outdoorsy , RVshare , and others allow you to rent RVs directly from owners. This could be a cheaper alternative depending on your plans.

Want to know more about renting a vehicle when planning your trip? Read our guide to renting an RV and make sure you’re getting the best possible deal for your trip.

Buying an RV is an investment, no matter the type you decide to get . If you’ve been planning an RV trip and know it’s going to be something you do in the future, purchasing an RV will save you money long-term.

If you’re ready to buy, there are lots of things to consider; read our guide to buying an RV to get started on your next adventure.

Where to Stay

There are three primary places to stay when RVing: RV parks, campgrounds, and boondocking locations. RV parks and campgrounds, including resorts, are the easiest places to book ahead of time for your motorhome or trailer. Book early to save money and ensure you have a place to park for the duration of your trip. The longer the stay, the more you’ll save, too. RV memberships are another great way to save money on parking, but if you aren’t going to RV much, or this is a one-off trip, the investment isn’t worth it.

Boondocking , the practice of camping without any kinds of hookups or other common amenities, is another option but can be a bit trickier. Essentially, this means that you want a place to park and sleep, but you can't just do that anywhere; you'll need to do some research about places that allow overnight parking. The pros of this practice are that it's free, and you are truly flexible without needing too many amenities or having to make reservations, but it can be a little nerve-wracking the first time you do it, and you want to make sure you're staying safe.

The possibilities of what to do when going on an RV trip are truly endless. If your destination is a large city, a National Park , or a specific attraction, that’s the primary thing you’ll plan your trip around, and from there, it’s about exploring what’s in the surrounding areas.

Many RV parks and campgrounds offer shuttles to help you visit nearby attractions. They’ll also host events and activities, especially on weekends, for you and your family to take part in. If you’re staying at an RV resort, you’ll often find golfing, spas, boating, and other activities included in your stay.

Don't focus all your planning on the destination—RVing truly is about the journey as well, allowing you to discover hidden attractions, restaurants, pit stops, and more that you can stumble upon spontaneously. Take the time to explore, venture off the path, and take in everything around you.

Keep in mind that your trailer, motorhome, or camper is also a place to do things—bring board games, watch movies, cook, and relax.

What to Bring

Like any other trip, bring what makes you comfortable. You’ll need the basics, like clothes and toiletries. If you plan on doing anything specific outdoors, you’ll need the appropriate gear to do so. Depending on the weather, you may want winter coats, rain jackets, waders, or hiking boots. What you bring will be dependent on what you plan to do on the road and at your final destination.

An RV gives you the freedom to bring things you wouldn’t for other kinds of trips, such as food and drinks and pillows, blankets, and sheets. While a hotel room will have most of what you need to spend a few nights, your RV is yours to stock and make comfortable for your needs on and off the road. Because most won’t come fully loaded with what you need, take inventory when you get it to make sure you have things like dishes, glasses, cutlery, pots and pans, toilet paper, and more—if those aren't included, plan to bring the things you'll need.

If your RV comes with a refrigerator, you’ll be able to fill it up with your favorite food to snack on and cook throughout the trip. But don’t over-buy food for the trip. You can always pick up more on the way.

Some emergency items you’ll want in your RV include:

• First aid kit
• Flashlights

If you forget something, you can always stop and pick it up.

Money-Saving Tips

Without proper planning, RVing can add up quickly. Here are some tips to keep your adventure on a budget:

• Rent your RV and book your parking spots well in advance, especially if traveling in summer months. The further out you book—and the longer—the more you’ll save. This goes for what you want to do when you arrive, too.
• If you can travel out of season, do it. You’ll often save up to half off the entirety of your trip by doing this.
• If you need to buy food, drinks, or things you left behind when you arrive at your destination, try and travel farther away from tourist traps to do so. Pit stops, gas stations, and tourist attractions will charge a lot more, especially for the “necessities.”
• Plan strategically for gas stops. Several apps exist to help you save on fuel along the way. Towing a trailer or driving a motorhome can be expensive; if your ride is fueled by diesel, this could break your budget. 
• Don’t buy new things for your ride. Use what you have at home, including food and snacks. Also, plan how often you'll eat out during your trip.

Things to Consider

• Be flexible. Something will likely go wrong—you'll get lost or move at a slower pace than you thought. Embrace these unexpected obstacles, and enjoy the “adventure” it adds to your RV trip. You never know what you might discover on the road or about yourself dealing with it.
• RVing is not for everyone. Plan a small trip for a few days if it’s your first time hitting the road. If you’ve never shared a small space with family or friends, you may find out it's not for you. Better to take a few days to learn this than anything longer.
• Have backup plans. You don’t know what the weather may bring . If you’re traveling somewhere where the weather can change at the bat of an eye, make sure to have something to fill the time. Movies, board games, and books are a great way to kill time when the weather keeps you trapped inside.

Planning an RV trip is like planning any other travel adventure. Take the time to understand where you’re going, what you’ll do there, and then plan the rest of the trip around supporting your comfort and enjoyment of what you’ll do when you arrive.

RV Industry Association. " Annual Report 2019. " Page 22. 2019.

RV Share. " RV Rental Prices. "

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6 steps to planning a successful RV road trip

Whether you’re an experienced RVer or just starting out, these tips will help make sure you have an amazing RV road trip

By Roadtrippers

When I bought my first RV more than a decade ago, it wasn’t because I loved camping. Rather, I was a dedicated roadtripper who spent all my vacation time driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway in the east, the Pacific Coast Highway in the west, or any scenic byway in between. As I entered my 30s—with a couple of babies in tow—I still desperately wanted to be a road warrior. However, I also wanted to bring some of the creature comforts of home along on the adventure. Enter the RV road trip.

Why road trip in an RV rather than a car?

Eleven years after that first RV purchase I can say the big bet paid off. My family has spent hundreds of days roadtripping around the country exploring national parks , historical landmarks, kitschy roadside attractions , urban destinations, and beach resorts. Here are the reasons why I choose to plan RV road trips more than any other type of travel.

You can travel more and spend less

It is easier for us to control costs when we travel in an RV than when we take other types of road trips. Spending less on a campground does not mean sacrificing natural beauty or comfort. State and national park campgrounds offer some of the most scenic places to park your rig with a price tag ranging from 20 to 40 dollars per night. Feeling more adventurous? Find Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land where you can boondock for free. Another option is purchasing a Harvest Hosts membership, which will allow you to camp for free at wineries, breweries, and farms around the country.  

You can prepare your own food in an RV

An RV kitchen allows travelers to eat healthier and spend less money while on the road. This can be particularly helpful for anyone with special dietary restrictions and food allergies, or for picky eaters. We love picking up regional specialties at farmers’ markets and then preparing dinner at the campground. 

You get your own (clean) bedroom and bathroom

No matter where we are in the country, we love ending the day by falling asleep on our own custom memory foam RV mattress. Our kids have their favorite blankets and stuffed animals. The bathroom is always well-stocked with our favorite toiletries, and the medicine cabinet has all the necessary first aid supplies we might need in a pinch. We are able to stock up on cleaning supplies and control the cleanliness of our environment more easily when traveling with an RV. 

Plan on renting an RV?

The RV rental industry has been growing rapidly over the last decade. If you plan on renting an RV for your next road trip, don’t wait to make that reservation. I highly recommend renting a motorhome that is 30 feet or less, which will enable you to fit into almost any RV campsite out there—public or private. 

Related Renting an RV for the First Time

A Class C RV rental will feel similar to driving a U-Haul truck and is fairly easy to maneuver on highways and in parking lots. Smaller Class Bs—think #vanlife—are even easier to drive but offer very little storage or sleeping space. Class As are more like buses and may be intimidating to first-time RVers. You will also be relegated to big-rig-friendly campgrounds and oversize parking spots.

Shopping for your first RV?

If you are currently in the market for your first RV, make sure you purchase a rig that will fit your traveling style. There is no shortage of massive RVs out there with residential refrigerators, massaging recliners, and king-sized master beds. However, these types of RVs are not well suited for roadtrippers who aim to easily move from place to place and stay light on their feet. 

Consider set up and break down times. Be aware that gas stops and quick roadside breaks will be more challenging. Also figure out what kind of campground experience you want. Rule of thumb is to purchase an RV under 30 feet long in order to fit into most state and national park campgrounds. 

If you would like to boondock or park overnight in free locations, make sure you look for large fresh water, gray water, and black water tanks as you shop. You may also want to look into solar panels or an onboard generator to power your off-grid adventures. 

Already own an RV?

If you recently purchased your RV and are itching to hit the road, take a breath and get comfortable with your new home on wheels first. Head to an empty parking lot and practice backing up, parking, and turning. Create personalized checklists for campground departure and arrival. Measure and record the length and height of your rig (including air conditioner). Load your RV with all your gear and head to your local CAT scales to make sure it’s not overweight. 

Despite all the compelling reasons to road trip in an RV, this mode of transportation does not come without its own unique set of challenges and concerns. No matter how experienced of a roadtripper you are, you’ll need to make some adjustments when planning an RV road trip.

1. Choose the right RV for the road trip you want to plan

Don’t expect to take the scenic route and play your campground stops by ear in a 40-foot Class A motorhome. On the other hand, you may not be able to stock up on groceries and prepare your own gourmet meals in a 16-foot Class B van. Matching up your rig with your desired adventure is the first step in planning a successful RV road trip. 

2. Make a plan that matches your budget

The three most expensive line items for an RV road trip are gas, campground fees, and food. All three of these can vary dramatically depending on the type of road trip you plan. Knowing your RV or tow vehicle MPG will help you plan a route that doesn’t break the bank. Remember, you don’t have to drive across the country to have an amazing adventure.

Having a campground budget will help you feel free to splurge on an RV resort at one stop and then balance that out with some state park camping or boondocking. Some folks save money by overnighting in Walmart, Cracker Barrel, or Cabela’s parking lots instead of pricey private campgrounds by the side of the road. Just call ahead to check on local ordinances. 

Related How to find a safe place to park your RV or van for the night

3. Book campsites far in advance of your departure date if possible

The current state of available campsites is a hard pill to swallow for new RVers. Many people dream of hitting the road and letting the wind blow them where it may. Unfortunately, the best state and national park campsites are often booked months in advance, so making reservations is typically recommended. Carefully read online reviews to ensure the campground is a good fit. Make sure the campground has the amenities that you need, whether that’s a pool and hot tub or just sparkling clean bathhouses. Also note any cancellation policies and record them in your smartphone calendar along with the reservation information. This way you are prepared if plans do change while you’re on the road. 

4. Plan an RV-friendly route

Many experienced roadtrippers love exploring the backroads and scenic byways when traveling from point A to point B. You will have to approach route planning differently when taking an RV road trip. Look for any low clearances and propane restrictions for bridges and tunnels. Think about gas stops that won’t land you in a parking lot pickle. Be aware of steep grades or switchbacks that may be tricky to navigate in an RV. 

Related What’s the Best Trip Planner?

5. Research RV parking in advance

Seasoned roadtrippers love to find unexpected treasures and make unplanned stops. This becomes a bit trickier when traveling by RV. I usually call ahead to points of interest along our route and specifically ask for details about RV parking. From the Corn Palace in South Dakota to the Bay of Fundy in Nova Scotia, we’ve been able to easily navigate busy tourist attractions armed with advanced parking intel. What about those fun, unplanned stops that pop up along the way? Check the satellite map view on your smartphone to see if you will be able to navigate in and out of the location before committing.

Take an RV-safe road trip with RV GPS, now available with a Roadtrippers Membership

6. adjust your estimated time of arrival.

One of the most common mistakes new RV roadtrippers make is expecting to move at the same pace as when traveling by car. That’s not going to happen, so it’s important to have reasonable expectations when planning your itinerary. An easy rule of thumb is to plan an average route speed of 50 miles per hour. This accounts for generally slower speeds, but also longer and perhaps more frequent gas stops. Driving an RV takes a lot more focus than a car, and first-time RVers are often surprised that they are tired after a shorter time behind the wheel. For this reason, some RVers follow the 3/300 rule: Drive no more than 300 miles in a single day and arrive at your destination no later than 3 p.m. 

After hundreds of days spent roadtripping in an RV over the last decade, I clearly enjoy hitting the open road with my home on wheels. I’m willing to trade a bit of flexibility for a whole lot of comfort. Find the right rig, plan ahead, and adjust your expectations a bit. Then get ready to have an amazing road trip adventure.

Meet the Author

Roadtrippers

Roadtrippers helps you find the most epic destinations and detours—from roadside attractions to natural wonders and beyond.

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Home » Budget Travel » How to Plan an RV Trip! • A Beginner’s RVing Guide (2024)

How to Plan an RV Trip! • A Beginner’s RVing Guide (2024)

So you need to know how to plan an RV trip? And why the hell not? RV road trips are the best!

It’s like taking all the best parts of the 21st-century nomadic lifestyle and merging it with all the trimmings of dim and drab domestic living.  The freedom of the open road enjoyed from a home-on-wheels!

However, planning an RV trip can be a  nightmare.  There are more nuts and bolts on those things than a space shuttle and not even the best RV tips in the world are gonna change that. They do help though…

Which is exactly why I’ve written this RV travel guide (of sorts) smushed full of tips and tricks for beginners! It’s not a  full  RV road trip guide. More it’s an introductory course, i.e…

How to plan an RV trip!  (The 101.)

We’ve got plenty of beginner RV travel tips right here including how to choose the right motorhome and then on how to plan a route once you’ve found your perfect rig! We’ve got tonnes of good info in a handy step-by-step fashion—a recipe for recreational vehicular success! So without further adieu…

Here’s how to plan an RV road trip to crispy, delicate, and finely basted perfection.

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Step 1: Acquiring an RV for Your Road Trip

Step 2: plan your rv road trip route, step 3: how to pack your rv, step 4: remember the golden tips and tricks for rv trips, step 5: protect yourself – get rv insurance, step 6: drive.

Right! So before you can even start planning an RV road trip, you need the most important ingredient—an RV! At the very least, you need to know what type of RV is right for your trip. 

How to Choose the Right RV: The Different Types of RVs

The awful truth, folks, is that size does matter (sorry, lads). The size of your rig is gonna dictate—in a very large part—both how you initially plan your RV trip and how your road trip ultimately plays out. We can get bogged down in the terminologies, but to keep it simple…

• Camping Trailers – Toy haulers, fold-outs, 5th-wheelers, you name it! The downside to planning an RV trip with a camping trailer is that you’re always driving around with a trailer. But the upshot? You can ditch the mothertrucker at any time! This is particularly awesome if you’re travelling in a 4×4. You can leave the trailer pitched up at camp and do all manner of mad exploration before coming home to your portable home.
• Class B Motorhomes and Campervans – Hair-splitting aside, these are vans, i.e. you’re living the vanlife ! The vanlife is sublime, and I will always wholeheartedly recommend it. Little (relatively), easy to manoeuvre, economic, and a vagabond’s best friend. A van can get you a lot of places a larger motorhome can’t, however, they tend to be built for two (or three contingent on your feelings of being farted on while asleep). Families will have to look elsewhere.
• Class C and Class A Motorhomes – Snowbirds and Grey Nomads unite, these are the RVs you’ve heard so much about. Luxurious, roomy, and stacked with all the juicy trimmings, these truly are houses-on-wheels. Class A motorhomes are ridonkulous— ’ house-bus’ is a much more appropriate word. Meanwhile, Class Cs are the smaller (but by no means small) van/truck/vehicular-apartments you see. These RVs guzzle gas, are expensive to maintain, and drive like… well… houses on wheels. But it just doesn’t get anymore pimpin’!

Which RV is Right for You

That ball is 100% in your court: only you know your budget, type of travel, and party size.

Personally, I’ll always sing the praises of van living, but I’m a dirty smelly backpacker of the budget travel lifestyle . A van is a pretty serious upgrade over a backpack, a pair of hiking boots, and a thumb. Still, never underestimate just how much freedom a van can give you.

Otherwise, a 21-footer is the go-to recommendation. That is to say, a Class C motorhome somewhere in the size range of 19 to 21 feet. Except for a sizable bathroom, ar RV of that calibre is plenty roomy for most needs on an RV road trip.

First-time RV renters are definitely not going to want to push it further than that; there’s simply too much to learn. If the house-bus is calling, then it’ll have to wait until you’ve earned your RV stripes.

Where to Rent an RV

Gone are the days of RV dealerships because, let’s be honest, RV dealerships are stinky butt-stains on the underpants of society! These days, the best RV rentals are found online.

There are two platforms (amongst many more) that cover this market demand excellently — Outdoorsy and RVShare . With these guys, there are zero dealerships and zero stinky butts involved. It’s peer-to-peer rental, or (in other words)…

You rent your RV straight from the owner. A good chunk of your RV packing will already be done for you, and you’re backed by a reputable rental organisation that isn’t going to take you for a ride.

Honestly, the differences between Outdoorsy and RVShare very minimal at most. They’re both kickass platforms with kickass reputations and kickass rentals!

Outdoorsy does have a higher number of raw selections (as well as a greater variety), but RVShare has the one-way rental system locked down. Customers on their first-time RV rental (or returnees to the RVlife) will be able to plan a monster of an RV trip with either of these guys.

Check them out and start planning your RV trip today!

And don’t forget to grab rental insurance either! You may get  some insurance coverage with your RV rental, however, not all insurance companies are created equal.

RentalCover.com has got your back. Their policies usually include all the common damages and come out cheaper than what you’ll get at the rental desk

Got your RV? Dope. Now, the next logical question for any RV vacation planning is logically…

And that means knowing how to plan an RV trip route. The list of things you’ll need to keep in mind for planning the route of your RV road trip isn’t exhaustive, however, it is comprehensive. The key aspects to focus on are:

• The timeline (how long you’ve got for your RV trip)
• The budget (how much moolah you’ve got for the road trip)

The route, though governed in large part by your timeline and budget, is also tied to a number of other factors:

• What you want to see.
• Campgrounds, RV parks, and other accommodations along the way to stop at.
• What roads you want to drive. (Not all drives are created equal.)

AND the other thing that you need to consider (now being the proud pilot of a large and cumbersome motorhome) is all the nitty-gritties that can ruin the camping trip of a first-time RVer. Things like:

• Passing through congested urban areas.
• Construction zones and road works.
• Crappy roads, low clearance, narrow bridges, and steep inclines/declines.
• And tolls (congrats—your toll fees just went up).

Sweet blimey hell—that is a motherload of things to keep track of! We’ll talk about your budget in a moment, but first, if you’re going to learn how to plan an RV road trip, you need to know how the bloody hell to keep track of all that nonsense!

Luckily, there’s a secret weapon up the sleep of all aficionados off the RVlife.

The Best RV Trip Planners – Apps and Websites

There are most certainly apps that are going to do the hard yards for you! If there’s an app for Icelanders to check that they’re not dating their cousin (yes, that’s a real thing), then there is definitely an app for planning an RV trip.

These babies are choice. One good app can cover most of your bases. Failing that, two should be more than sufficient.

They outline routes, list places to camp, track difficulties on the road (eg. low clearances), and they can even help you manage your gas budget! Here are a few of the best RV trip planning apps:

• RV Trip Wizard – One of the best RV trip planners out there! It’s cross-platform (PC, tablets, and smartphones) and tracks so damn much . RV campgrounds, points of interest, route planning, and even things like clearance and road hazards.
• iOverlander – Pretty similar to RV Trip Wizard except with more of an international focus. Whether this or another, having a few RV trip planning apps is smart to cover your bases.
• Roadtrippers – Ditto, basically. Experiment with these three platforms and see what you’re fave is.
• GasBuddy – A must-download for anyone planning an RV trip across the country. Not only does it highlight all the gas stations in the country, but it also tracks who’s cheapest and your own gas mileage. Use it to save some cash!
• AllStays Camp and RV – An extremely comprehensive app for finding campsites across North America. It’s one of the best apps for finding RV camping, BUT it’s not free and only on iOS. Cheapskates and my Android homeboys can instead try…
• RV Parks & Campgrounds – It’s free, also extremely comprehensive, and on platforms other than the platform that’s the worst platform.  

How to Plan an RV Trip Budget

Gas! Yeah, there are other things that factor in too, however, petrol prices and keeping your steed juiced up is going to be the main contention of your budget.

The trick to managing your budget when travelling the country in an RV is being keyed in what’s gonna get ya (and how to manage it):

• RV rental fees (if applicable)
• Insurance costs
• Travel costs (eg. driving or flying to the RV pickup)
• Food, drinks, groceries, and supplies
• Accommodation costs
• Tourist fees (visiting attractions, national park fees, etc.)

That’s the stuff you’ve got to consider and you’ve got to consider it BEFORE you embark on your great cross-country RV road trip. It’s either that or run out of money halfway through and resort to sub-letting your motorhome to make ends meet.

Some of this is basic budget travel 101 stuff. However, for a few RV travel tips for keeping your budget in check…

• Plan your route carefully – Going with the wind is for the vanlifers. When you’re lugging a heavy motorhome around, it pays to not have to double back.
• Camp for free! – RV parks and holiday resorts are great but so bloody expensive. By packing basic camping supplies and sticking to basic campsites and national/state park campgrounds can bring your nightly stay cost down to $10-$20 in a lot of cases. Better yet, 9 times outta 10, there are heaps of free campsites too! Amenities tend to be pretty bare-bones—sometimes it may be as little as a clearing in the woods—but the whole point of planning a motorhome trip is that you don’t even need amenities!
• Urban boondocking – ‘Boondocking’ is a term coined by the Americanos for what the rest of the world simply calls camping. It’s camping, for free, in an RV, somewhere without any serious electricity or water hookups. Thus, ‘urban boondocking’ is doing just that but in an urban setting. Sometimes the local RV parking laws allow it, at other times they do not, however, urban boondocking is both an art form and a time-honoured tradition. If you’re willing to risk it to get the biscuit, you can always save some money on an RV road trip by doing the sneaky!
• Petrol station coupons and loyalty program – Use ‘em and abuse ‘em. Sure, 5 cents off per litre may not sound like much, but by the end of your motorhome road trip, it’s gonna count for a lot.

Look, either you hate figuring how to pack your gear or you’re one of those weird nerds that love Tetris-ing things and constantly finding new ways to minimise your setup (i.e. me).

All the same, it’s important to get your packing list for your RV trip right. That means writing it down.

Use your phone if you want—personally, I’m a fan of old-school pen and paper—but put the work in. Forgetting an essential just means an unnecessary purchase (and an unnecessary headache) on the road.

Plus, nothing gets the ladies going like a good packing list! Chicks dig type-A personality traits.

RV Packing List

Much like planning your RV trip budget, there’s only so much I can do for you in this regard. I’m going to list the essentials—tools and gear that’s going to help keep your rig running smoothly—but the fineries in life? That’s on you.  

Getting your packing for a road trip on-point is always going to make the journey smoother. That just goes double for an RV. It’s such a sizable beast with so many moving parts and so many things that can go wrong that you really don’t want to stuff this up.

An RV rental is obviously going to come already fitted with a lot of the bits and boodles you need for a killer trip. But while your kitchen and pooping setup will already be ready to rock and roll, there are a few RV essentials—rental or not—that you shouldn’t be trekking out on any road trips without:

• Surge protector
• Electrical adapters
• Extension cords
• Electrical and duct tape
• Battery jumper cables
• Tire pressure gauge
• Levelling blocks
• Wheel chocks
• Extra cotter pins
• Extra motor oil and transmission fluid
• Water pressure regulator
• Drinking water hose
• Toilet chemicals
• RV-friendly toilet paper
• Fire extinguisher
• Emergency road assistance kit
• Large zip-close bag for documentation

And as an added bonus, here’s some excellent backpacking gear that our Broke Backpacker team adore suited for any trip… with or without wheels!

First Aid Kit

Even if you don’t plan on doing anything too extreme on your trip, you never know what could happen. Cuts, bruises, scrapes, third-degree sunburn: a first aid kit will be able to handle most of these minor situations.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator – so you can enjoy a cold red bull, or a hot coffee, no matter where you are.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

Every traveller should have a head torch! A decent head torch could save your life. When you’re camping, RVing, or just heading into the woods, a top-quality headlamp is a MUST.

Sea To Summit Microfibre Towel

I dunno what to tell you—microfibre towels are the tits! They’re so compact, they dry lighting fast, and they’re just a real multi-purpose tool.

Hanging Toiletry Bag

Hanging toiletry bags are an efficient bit of gear for any travels. They keep all your unmentionables organised and they can be used anywhere—just hang it up and you’re good to go!

RV Road Trip Packing Tips

RV or not, always keep it light! Particularly because the lighter your motorhome is, the less you’ll spend on fuel!

Other than that, here are some tips and tricks for your RV packing:

• Pack evenly – As well as keeping it light, make sure not to stack your load all on one side or in one section of your RV. Similarly, pack your heavy items evenly across all four axles, and store them low too. An unevenly weighted RV is simply more dangerous to drive.
• Use clear plastic boxes for storage – The more translucent your storage boxes are, the easier it’ll be to find things on the go!
• Plan your meals – It’s tempting to just stock cupboards with tins like a rabid doomsday prepper, however, actually planning your meals ahead of time is way smarter. It’s lighter on the storage, the budget, and means way fewer trips to the grocery store.
• Don’t use breakable items – Crockery, for example, is a monumentally stupid possession in a rumbling, grumbling, and tumbling motorhome. Go for non-fragile alternatives!
• Keep the toolbox light – You’ll be wanting a fine selection of emergency tools and a well-stocked first aid kit (plus several rolls of duct tape), but stick to lighter implements. Leave the heavy-duty tools at home for your return.
• Don’t fill the water tanks – Unless you’re planning on heading out into the sticks properly. The more minimal you keep your water tanks’ capacity, the (much) less weight you’ll have. And that matters because…
• Pack light! – I mentioned this once, and I’m sayin’ it again because it’s number one of any and all RVing tips: the lighter your rig, the less fuel you’ll use. It matters.

Too right—more RV tips! Those were just packing tips; these are the real RV travel tips any slow-cruiser of the highways and byways needs to know:

• Drive slow and easy – RVs aren’t built for speed at the best of times, but driving at a consistent and slow pace (<90kph/55mph) is going to boost both your gas mileage and the overall longevity of your motorhome. And keep the days of driving short—less than 4-5 hours tends to be the sweet spot to still really enjoy the day (plus driving more than 8 hours a day is actually considered dangerous ).
• And skip the major roads – One of the greatest tips for first-time RVers in learning how to plan a road trip is to ditch the highways. Back roads, scenic routes, and the middle of bumflap nowhere is where you want to be. A slower, gentler, and prettier life.
• Boondock courteously – If you are boondocking—particularly in an urban or suburban area—be respectful. That means keeping the noise down, lights low, only staying in the same spot for one night (two absolute maximum), and, most importantly, leaving no trace. Travel respectfully and responsibly.
• Book campsites in advance – Wild camping notwithstanding, paid sites—even in national parks—should be booked well in advance as they do fill up (sometimes even months ahead). Plus, you should be calling to confirm your booking and that they’ll take an RV of your size and age. Some campgrounds are picky.
• And plan your RV parking in advance – Generally, just etching out all of your RV road trip planning well in advance is the way to go. However, do pay attention to parking. There’s nothing like showing up to a tourist attraction only to find you can’t fit in the car park.
• Practice makes perfect – Setup and pack-down will take some getting used to. Systems and lists are your best friend!
• Accommodate for mishaps – There WILL be days things go wrong. There WILL be days where you want to leave the backseat gremlins at the nearest gas station. Hell, there might even be days where you (momentarily) consider suffocating the ball-and-chain with a pillow. Just take a breath and take it in stride. That’s all part of the fun of life on the road. 🙂

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

As I mentioned, driving an RV around is a whole new world of stress and exasperation. Imagine you’d been riding mules your whole life, caravanning across the desert wastes by way of ass. One day, suddenly, a mate asks you to park his woolly mammoth…

There are a couple of things you can do to make your RV road trip smoother. One is to key yourself in on how to drive an RV safely . Two is to make sure that it (and you) is insured!

Always consider travel insurance before ANY trip.

Obviously, your RV is going to need insurance, but please consider making sure your person is insured too! Travelling without insurance could be risky. Presenting The Broke Backpacker’s go-to insurer –  World Nomads Travel Insurance!

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

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

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

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

Not sold on World Nomads? Then check out our roundup of the top insurance providers for travellers and see what floats your boat!

And now you know exactly how to plan an RV trip—smashing! Armed with this RV trip planning guide, there’s no reason you can’t go and bombastically boondock your way across the country’s greatest hits and most beautiful drives .

But before we tie this up, I have one final RV road trip tip for you—write a checklist! Seriously, write a checklist for your first RV trip. And perhaps purchase an RV lover’s gift for either yourself or a friend because why not.

Take the best parts of this guide (meaning, all of it), and think about what you need and need to do. Only you know your wants and needs, so it’s up to you to figure out the tricky stuff! Your personal RV packing list, buying or renting, your route and budget: this is the stuff you’ve gotta think about (and write down) when planning your motorhome road trip.

So no dilly-dallying! The open road is waiting, and all that stands between you and it is a whole bunch of dotted i’s and crossed t’s. Then, once the RV admin is attended to, there’s nothing left except for step 6…

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Ziggy Samuels

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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 .

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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). 

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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.

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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 .

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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The Ultimate RV Travel Bucket List: 51 Best Places to Visit in North America

Your road map to hidden gems, cherished natural wonders, and iconic monuments across North America

Are you looking for travel bucket list ideas for your next RV trip? Running out of ideas or looking for fresh ones? From epic classics to exciting newcomers, we have selected the 51 most amazing places to visit or things to do in the U.S. and Canada. Of course, there are many more than 51 places worth visiting.

We have traveled by RV in 47 states and four Canadian provinces but barely made a dent (and our list continues to grow longer and longer).

It’s time to pack the RV and discover beautiful and awe-inspiring places across North America. Following are many of our favorite destinations in the US and Canada to satisfy your wanderlust.

Badlands National Park : South Dakota

With ochre-tinted buttes, graceful spires, and fossil-rich landscapes, Badlands National Park, in southwest South Dakota, entrances visitors with its ethereal vistas.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park : North Carolina and Tennessee

Great Smoky Mountains National Park attracts outdoorsy types with its sublime mountain scenery and beautiful old-growth forests.

Banff National Park: Alberta

Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff is Canada’s first (and arguably most beautiful) National Park.

Charleston : South Carolina

With its Spanish moss, historic architecture, coastal scenery and graceful antebellum mansions, Charleston oozes Southern charm.

Bryce Canyon National Park : Utah

Otherworldly rust-colored hoodoo rock formations are on full display at this popular national park.

Blue Ridge Parkway : North Carolina and Virginia

The nearly 500 miles of blacktop twisting through the Great Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah national parks was built for travelers seeking Appalachian overlooks.

Sedona : Arizona

Sedona attracts nature lovers with its desert landscapes, surreal red rocks, and enchanting vortexes, places where the earth’s energy is reportedly amplified.

Joshua Tree National Park : California

With jaw-dropping desert scenery, prickly Joshua trees, and distinct boulder rock formations, Joshua Tree mesmerizes visitors with its eye-catching landscapes.

Zion National Park : Utah

If your perfect bucket-list includes hitting scenic hiking trails, it’s hard to rival the otherworldly landscapes in Utah’s Zion National Park.

Wells Gray Country : British Columbia

Wells Gray has something to offer every outdoor interest: lush alpine meadows, birding and wildlife viewing, hiking, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and 41 breathtaking waterfalls.

Boston Freedom Trail : Massachusetts

Walk this 2.5-mile path (just follow the red-brick line) that passes 16 historical landmarks from Paul Revere’s house and the Old North Church to Bunker Hill and Old Ironside.

Scenic Byway 12 : Utah

The red rock majesty of Utah is on triumphant display on Scenic Byway 12 winding between Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon national parks.

Green Mountain Byway: Vermont’s Route 100

The billboard-free Route 100 winds through some of Vermont’s most quintessentially Vermonty villages, with all the cider donuts and country stores that go with them.

Dead Horse Point State Park : Utah

Towering 2,000 feet above the Colorado River, Dead Horse Point is an iconic peninsula of rock sitting on top of incredible vertical sandstone cliffs.

Tombstone: Arizona

Arguably America’s most infamous Old West town, Tombstone, is the perfect place to see what life was like during the days of the Wild West.

Jekyll Island Club Resort : Georgia

Follow in the footsteps of visitors like J.P. Morgan and the Pulitzer family as you golf, bike, boat, swim, or trot along on a horse-drawn carriage.

Santa Fe : New Mexico

A city that embraces its natural environment, Santa Fe is a city whose beautiful adobe architecture blends with the high desert landscape.

Remember the Alamo : San Antonio, Texas

Home of the famous 1836 battle, the beautiful 300-year-old former Spanish mission turned fortress is the heart of San Antonio and Texas’ most visited historic landmark.

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge : Georgia

Hop aboard a flat-bottomed boat and keep your eyes peeled for alligators, egrets, and hawks during a tour of the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge.

Canyon de Chelly National Monument : Arizona

Canyon de Chelly has sandstone walls rising up to 1,000 feet, scenic overlooks, well-preserved Anasazi ruins, and an insight into the present-day life of the Navajo.

Mesa Verde National Park : Colorado

A great concentration of ancestral Pueblo Indian dwellings, built from the 6th to the 12th century, can be found on the Mesa Verde plateau in southwestern Colorado.

Red Rocks State Park : Sedona, Arizona

Red Rock State Park is a 286-acre nature preserve and environmental education center with stunning scenery.

Monument Valley : Arizona and Utah

The iconic landscape of Monument Valley symbolizes the American West worldwide with its towering buttes and sweeping skies.

My Old Kentucky Home State Park : Kentucky

My Old Kentucky Home State Park honors the home that was the symbol of Stephen Foster’s endearing song, the stately mansion on the Rowan Estate known as Federal Hill.

Mitchell Corn Palace : South Dakota

The World’s Only Corn Palace is a quirky but cool multi-purpose arena in Mitchell.

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument : Washington

The eruption of Mount St. Helens caused a huge landslide to sweep through the Toutle River Valley and remove 1,306 feet from the top of the volcano.

Shiner : Texas

Shiner, Texas is home to 2,069 people, Friday’s Fried Chicken, and—most famously—the Spoetzal Brewery where every drop of Shiner beer is brewed.

Gulf State Park: Alabama

Gulf State Park’s two miles of beaches greet you with plenty of white sand, surging surf, seagulls, and sea shells, but there is more than sand and surf to sink your toes into.

Icefields Parkway: Alberta

The Icefield Parkway is a 144-mile highway winding along the Continental Divide through soaring rocky mountain peaks, icefields, and vast sweeping valleys.

Cherohala Skyway : North Carolina and Tennessee

Travel the Cherohala Skyway and enjoy panoramic vistas as you wind through the Southern Appalachian high country.

Catalina Highway : Arizona

With a nearly 7,000-foot elevation change in a mere 24 miles, the Catalina Highway is a brilliant ascent with countless curves, numerous vistas, and three major switchbacks.

Myakka River State Park : Florida

Seven miles of paved road wind through shady hammocks, along grassy marshes, and the shore of the Upper Myakka Lake. See wildlife up-close on a 45-minute boat tour.

Natural Bridges National Monument : Utah

These three majestic natural bridges were formed by the power of water in a landscape usually defined by its absence. View them from an overlook or hit the trails.

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument : Arizona

Organ Pipe Cactus is the only place in the U.S. where the organ pipe cactus grows wild.

San Antonio Missions : Texas

The San Antonio Missions are a group of five frontier mission complexes situated along a 7.7-mile stretch of the San Antonio River.

Incline Railway : Chattanooga, Tennessee

Take the incline railway up a 72.7-percent grade on Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga. It’s like driving up an insanely pretty wall.

Lassen Volcanic National Park: California

See all four types of volcanoes—cinder cone, composite, shield, and plug dome. Plenty of hydro- and geothermal activity is still found in Lassen Volcanic National Park today.

Okanagan Wine Region : British Columbia

Okanagan wine region is possibly the most scenic wine region in North America and a place where RVers and other normal people can afford to taste wine.

Cedar Breaks National Monument : Utah

At an elevation of over 10,000 feet, Cedar Breaks looks down into a majestic geologic amphitheater, a three-mile long cirque of eroding limestone, shale, and sandstone.

Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park : Alberta

A wide green valley, steep sandstone cliffs, strange rock formations called hoodoos, and rock art—all of these things make Writing-on-Stone a special place.

Lake Powell : Utah and Arizona

Spend a week on Lake Powell boating through slot canyons, anchoring on deserted beaches, and camping under the stars.

Creole Nature Trail : Louisiana

Louisiana’s prairies, marshes and shores teem with wildlife, and a drive along the Creole Nature Trail gives visitors a chance to experience nature’s bounty up close.

Grand Canyon National Park : Arizona

“Grand” doesn’t do this canyon justice. Measuring approximately 277 river miles in length, up to 18 miles in width and a mile deep, this massive chasm is a natural wonder.

Jasper National Park: Alberta

The largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper is the wildest of the mountain parks and contains the world famous Columbia Icefields.

Congaree National Park : South Carolina

Congaree National Park showcases the largest tract of old-growth floodplain forest remaining on the continent.

Black Hills : South Dakota

Driving through this corner of South Dakota takes you through some of the most rugged, distinctive, and beautiful land in America.

Blue Bell Ice Cream : Brenham, Texas

Stop by for a scoop of ice cream at the Ice Cream Parlor, view how Blue Bell is made, shop in the Country Store, and learn more Blue Bell Creameries in the Visitor Center.

Colonial Williamsburg : Virginia

A living history museum and two art museums offer something for everyone, from hands-on activities to original 18th-century buildings to a folk-art collection.

Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Awaken your senses and explore the birthplace of Bourbon as you embark on a self-guided journey to discover the story behind Kentucky’s Bourbon Culture.

Ohio Amish Country : Holmes County

Ever wish you could turn the clock back to a time when life was simpler and the wheels turned a little more slowly? Now you can.

Arches National Park : Utah More than 2,000 sandstone arches dot the 47,000-acre landscape of this national park.

Worth Pondering…

“My favorite thing is to go where I have never been,” wrote photographer Diane Arbus, and so it is with us.

Written by Niche Website • April 14, 2021 • 5:49 pm • Guides

The Ultimate RV Road Trip Guide

Introduction

Road trips are fundamental to the American spirit. The people you love all gathered together, heading from home on a journey of discovery.

In a very real sense, it harks back to the founding of the nation, to journeys made by ancestors, or journeys made by pioneers who paved the way.

The RV is our modern equivalent of a Conestoga wagon in more ways than one.

• Everybody’s onboard in one vehicle.
• We take lots of our home comforts with us along for the ride.
• We’re masters of our destiny – free to eat on board or not. Free to sit and watch the stars if we want to.
• And not to put too fine a point on it, it’s cheaper than hoteling and moteling it every step of the way. You also feel more like a citizen of a great land when you’re RVing it, rather than a tourist in your own country when hoteling and moteling.

So, what makes the ultimate RV road trip? Let’s load up and find out.

Why Road Trip In An RV Rather Than A Car?

Road trips in a car are fine as far as they go. But there are several disadvantages, which the RV neatly negates for all on board.

You Can Travel More. Road trips in a car mean whoever is doing the driving can’t ever get any real rest. 

You can take it in turns, yes, but with sleeping in the passenger seat and getting all kinds of uncomfortable the only option, the likelihood of real rest is slim.

What’s more, if the person who has been driving is now napping, trying to recharge their batteries, everybody in the car has to be quiet. That’s nigh on impossible if there are children in the car.

With an RV, a quick change of driver means the person whose shift has ended can go behind, stretch out in a real bed and get some proper rest. And any children can still be children, without disturbing the sleeper. 

The result is the potential for much longer journeys, and much bigger adventures further away from home.

Then there’s the question of bathroom breaks.

In a car, every child – and every adult too, come to that – is at the mercy of their bladder. Every time someone needs a rest stop, you’re more or less obliged to find somewhere civilized to take them. 

That means pulling in to a rest stop regularly, and having to re-acquaint yourself with the road again afterward, cutting into the time you spend traveling.

In an RV, if you need to go, there are onboard conveniences, so you go, do what you need to do, and the wheels just keep on turning, adding miles to your journey.

The same sort of thing applies to the cramped conditions in the back of a car, compared to the ability to go and sit, stretched out in comfort in an RV. 

Easing that discomfort means easing the boredom of children, which in turn leads to fewer rest stops based on sheer exasperation and boredom. And the miles keep rolling away behind you.

Any which way you look at it, the RV, rather than the car, is the right way to make a road trip if you want to get further from home and have those bigger adventures with a different sky.

You Spend Less

This should be self-evident, but fewer stops for bathroom breaks, comfortable naps, or simply a distraction from cramp and boredom means you spend less en route.

You’re not required to make a rest stop, only to fill up again on coffee and soda pop at chain store prices. The more prepared you are in advance, the less you need to spend at premium, on the road, prices.

It’s also true that when you sleep on your RV at night, you’re not paying hotel or motel prices for an experience you can have right there on the vehicle.

You Can Prepare Your Own Food in An RV

Sure, part of the adventure of a road trip is to see new places, experience new things, and maybe eat different foods from across the country.

And that’s fine when it comes to destinations – places you’re aiming to get to and see. 

But during the getting-there, why would you want to spend money for uncertain food that might for all you know be filled with additives and preservatives and anything else you care to name?

Part of the point of an RV is that it comes with at least a galley kitchen. That means you can fix your own meals and snacks while the miles run away from you.

That’s not only cheaper, it can also be reassuring for children. Children have different modes of thinking. They can be On An Adventure, and they can be Traveling. 

If you encourage them to think that the traveling part is what happens before the adventure, they won’t feel the need to be eating Adventure-Food until you actually arrive somewhere, and will be comforted by the tastes of the familiar to pass the time while they’re traveling.  

You Get Your Own (Clean) Bedroom And Bathroom

Let’s be clear here. 

There’s no disrespect intended to the owners of America’s fine network of hotel and motel chains, or its Mom & Pop establishments offering beds for the night.

But let’s remember we’ve just experienced a pandemic viral infection. One of the key strategies for limiting infection during that pandemic was for families to ‘bubble’ together – to keep to their own as much as was humanly possible.

In hotels and motels off the highways of the nation, people sometimes stay for only one night, and sometimes for longer. 

There’s often a quick turnaround to get the next guests in. Who knows if maybe the cleaning regime is overworked (especially given the Covid restrictions on working and travel).

With an RV, you know what you’re eating, you have your own bathroom for the ‘bubble’ of your family, and you bring your own sheets, pillows, and bed linen. 

As much as a precaution for anyone else as for your own family, staying in an RV means you’re doing the socially responsible thing and keeping everyone safe.

There’s The Mindset

As we mentioned, in an RV, there’s a sense of adventure baked right in – all traveling together, with the potential to sleep, eat healthy food, and play without driving anyone else into a rage. 

It’s a harmonious way for a family to travel into new territory and feel the spirit of exploration.  In a car, it feels like a Monday morning commute that goes on for miles, and miles, and miles, and…

So, hands down, an RV is the best option when it comes to having the ultimate road trip across America. Cars are great, but for the ultimate road trip, they just don’t cut it.

Planning A Successful RV Road Trip

That’s not to say everything’s free and easy in an RV. If you’re going to have the ultimate adventure, you need to plan quite a lot of the trip ahead.

Because an RV is a very particular type of vehicle. You can’t legally just park it up on the side of the road. You have to book campsites to house it overnight. 

You have to be sure there’s legal RV parking at the places you want to include on your adventure.

You have to make sure that the route you take is RV-friendly, rather than just car-friendly. 

And again, you have to make sure you have the budget to complete the trip comfortably (which means building in some contingency for frivolity. Possibly quite a lot of frivolity where children are involved).

So – to the Planmobile!

Make A Plan That Matches Your Budget

When taking a road trip by RV, there are three major sources of expense.

• Campsite fees.

You know yourself how much money you have to dedicate to your RV adventure.

The trick is working out how to hit all the spots you want to hit, see all the things you want to see, and get all the way back again, on the money you have available.

There are several factors that account for how much gas you need.

• Size and year of your RV
• Speed of travel (the slower you drive, the less gas you’ll burn in the same period. This also correlates to less distance travelled).
• Price of gas when you set out.

There are any number of handy calculators to help you get numbers on this. One of the simplest, assuming you know your average vehicle mileage per gallon of gas is the KOA calculator . 

Whatever else is true in this world, you can take it as fact that RVs will cost you more at the pump than regular cars. On average, RVs get about 6 to 18 mpg, depending on the size and model, whereas cars average about 24 mpg.

So, work out how far you want to go, your RV’s mileage per gallon, and the price of gas per gallon, and you should have a rough figure for your gas costs. 

Then add more on top for off-ramping, driving from interstates to campsites, driving to any particular attractions you (or your kids) mark as a must-see while you’re on the trip, etc.

Campsite Fees

There is of course no standard campsite fee in America. You pay more or less from season to season, and from location to location, so how much you pay per night depends on where you go and what you want to see when you wake up.

Got a national park on your itinerary? The National Parks Service runs official RV campsites at most national parks, and prices vary from $15-25 per night at the Grand Canyon park to $120-125 per night at Colter Bay in the Grand Teton park.

It’s also worth knowing that while the National Parks Service keeps its prices as low as possible, there are sometimes private park owners within the same park whose prices can be substantially higher. 

For example, at the Grand Canyon, a non-NPS site can cost you between $49-62 per night.

Across the country and outside of national parks, prices also vary considerably, so it’s worth planning out a route that’s friendly both for your RV and for your bank account.

To find RV campgrounds across the country, try:

• Kampgrounds Of America
• Recreation.gov
• The Bureau of Land Management
• United States Geological Survey for a National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass
• And Roverpass

Food and drink are primary expenses on a road trip, not least because it’s probably relatively rare that a family eats all its meals together in day-to-day life – children at school, parents at work. 

On a road trip, the likelihood is that most meals will be eaten together, and must be planned or paid for out of a holiday budget.

To some extent, the cost of this can be mitigated by careful planning before the trip. 

Simple family meals involving pasta, beans, rice, etc mean the bulk of the food can be bought at least one monthly budget ahead and stored in the RV ready for the trip. 

Some of the rest of the equation will depend on the size of your RV’s kitchen, and what size refrigerator it has, for the storage of meats, cold drinks, etc.

Expect to take a lot of non-perishable snack foods for kids made ravenous by adventure and new locations. If you’re going to be doing a lot of outdoor activities like hiking, budget for high-energy slow-release foods too. 

And include a larger budget for eating out at least some nights on your adventure, so as to add a sparkle to the eye and give a break from travel-food.

It’s been suggested by guides that $10 per person per day is a reasonable budget if the food is bought and cooked in the RV. 

So if you use that as your guide, and then add extra for site-specific snacks and any food eaten in diners, restaurants, etc, you should be about right.

Admissions, Events, Etc

Remember to budget for entry into any events, attractions, and the like. Want to visit an alligator farm in Arkansas , it’ll cost you $9 per adult and $7 per child under 12. 

Want to marvel at the weird and wonderful roadside attractions of America ? No charge but the gas to get there. Budget accordingly and get your mind a little blown so you remember the trip forever.

Book Campsites In Advance If Possible

Campsites can be competitive, and they are a naturally finite resource – once they’re full, they’re full.  Booking your spaces as far in advance as possible means your spot is secured, so you’re not forcing yourself to drive on through the night to another location.

It also means you won’t be forced by necessity out of cheaper campsites into more expensive, more run-for-profit campsites, eating into your road trip budget.

Apart from relieving any issues of not getting in somewhere, the further in advance you plan and book your campsite reservations, the less financial pressure there is on you in the immediate run-up to the road trip.

Book and pay for a night or two out of each paycheck for a few months ahead of time, and you won’t have to take a big hit in real-time when the road trip arrives. That will leave you free to enjoy more of your time without that extra burden.

And in addition to all that, having designated places to get to each night helps keep you on your route. 

Sure, the biggest ball of twine in the world may be fascinating, looked at from a simple “Who thinks to do this?” angle, but if you don’t get to your campsite by nightfall, you’ll miss the slot you paid for…

Plan An RV-Friendly Route

Now – there are lots of people who feel the freedom of the open road is tied up with taking winding little detours wherever the next dirt road takes them.

All power to them, but that’s not practical with an RV.

As we mentioned at the start, an RV is a different class of vehicle altogether to a Nissan family-wagon. It’s taller, wider, slower, and often falls under restrictions that you might not ordinarily think about.

You’re going to need to think about them.  Plan your route with regard to low clearances, propane-restricted bridges and tunnels. 

Research tough gradients and switchback corners along your proposed route, and cut them the heck out, because getting an RV caught in a tight bend is like trapping a walrus in a washtub – it’s loud, it’s messy, it causes undue panic to everyone, and it just isn’t pretty.

Also, map your route according to RV-friendly gas stations. No , not all gas stations are RV-friendly. Fortunately, you don’t need to get out your dowsing rods to mystically find RV-friendly gas. 

There are plenty of apps and map-overlays now that will take the heartache out of this element of your route-planning, including everything from Google Maps to the Gasbuddy app.

Research RV Parking In Advance

Similarly, it’s an RV rookie who rolls up to an event or location and just expects to be OK to park an RV there.  If there are definite places you want to hit on your trip, make yourself a list and do the research – online first, phone second, just to confirm that you’re OK to park your RV at the venue.

Is this taking the spirit of adventure out of RV road-tripping?  No, it’s proper planning to avoid disappointment, unnecessary difficulties, and looking unprepared in the eyes of your family.

Sure, there’s still room for the unexpected detour to see something cool – but ideally, as soon as it’s mentioned, check your Google Maps overlay or ask the digital butler that lives in your phone whether you’re OK to park an RV there.

Adjust Your Estimated Time Of Arrival

We need you to do something.

We need you to calculate how long it would normally take you to get from point A to Point B in the family car. Write it down for us on a piece of paper.

Now, very carefully, tear that piece of paper in half, lengthwise. And then do it again. And again. And then throw it in the garbage.

That right there is the experience of time planning with an RV.

You’re not in a family car anymore. You’re in a road warrior. A Conestoga wagon with a lot of modern conveniences. You don’t fit your beds in your family car. You don’t fit a refrigerator or an oven. Whole. Different. Ballgame.

Sure, the engine in your RV is larger too. 

But with the route planning to avoid frightened bridges, the avoidance of some more direct routes because of their gradients and zig-zags, the detours for RV-friendly gas, and the occasional reductions in speed so as not to, for instance, hurl all the crockery out of cupboards, you’re going to be slower than you think you will if you base your calculations on standard car speed and progress.

Why is this important?

Remember that thing where you have to get to your campsite each night? Yeah, that. 

Considerations of RV speed should never be allowed to get in the way of your adventure, but it’s worth factoring into your route-planning when it comes to how many miles you think you’re likely to realistically cover each day.

Road Trip Essentials Checklist

So you’re all ready to hit the road? Got your route planned, your budget fixed, your sights to see, and an empty RV?

Great – now all you need to do is fill that puppy up and you’ll be ready to go.

It’s not that easy remembering all the things that really should go in an RV when you’re embarking on a road trip though. 

That’s why we’ve put together a ready reckoner for you, so you can check off what you’re taking along for the ride.

Sure, you’re going away on a great adventure. Great adventures take paperwork these days.

License and Registration For Your Vehicle

We’re sure you drive like a dream, but in the event that a cop is curious about your RV and its route into the road trip of a lifetime, these are the documents they will always ask for, to make sure that a) you are you, and b) you own the vehicle. 

Take them with you, leave them in the glove compartment the whole time, remember to bring them back inside the house when you get home ­ – at least until you next use the RV.

Insurance Documents and Relevant Numbers

As with the license and registration, you probably won’t need these on your road trip, but if you do need them, you’ll really need them. Dig them out, put them alongside the license and registration documents.

The Hard Copy Manual For Your Vehicle

More and more often, the manual comes as a downloadable document. By all means, have that to hand on a phone or e-reader of your choice. Carry the hard copy version too. 

Because the world is such that the moment you need it, your battery will die, that’s why. Again, store it with the license and registration documents in the glove compartment.

Passports – Optional

Unless you’re planning to cross a border, or you feel like the urge might suddenly come upon you, you’re probably safe to leave your passports at home. 

If you are likely to be going close to a border and might decide to hop over for an afternoon, take them with you.

Ideally, don’t keep these with your car’s documents, but in somewhere secure within the RV. Just in case.

Medical Details, including Insurance Documents And Numbers – Optional

This is only really necessary if you have an ongoing chronic condition, and may need, for instance, to prove you a) need the medications you’re carrying, or b) need some more of them, and are insured to receive them.

Spare Tires

Again, there’s very little likelihood that you’ll need a spare tire, let alone two.

But if and when you do need them, you’d better believe you’re really going to need them. 

If you’re rolling down the road and a tire bursts, it’s going to put a serious crimp in your adventure, to say nothing of your schedule, to have to wait till a local garage can get to you – and that’s if they have a spare for your particular RV.

Carry at least one spare tire on a road trip. Two for preference, just to give yourself twice the odds.

Roadside Emergency Kit

You need one of these so that if something goes wrong with your RV while you’re on the road, you’re not simply lost and floundering with an outsize vehicle on your hands, going nowhere. 

A standard roadside emergency kit will include:

• Battery booster cables
• At least two light sticks
• A reflective vest, so people can see you working
• And emergency rain poncho, because immediately you break down, it will start to rain on you
• A warning triangle
• A tire pressure gauge, to confirm what you already know in your heart
• A window breaker, because yes, it will absolutely come to that

A Domestic Tool Kit

You’re essentially taking a mini-version of your home away with you. Anything that can go wrong in the full-sized version can go wrong in the mini-version too. Take:

• At least one sledgehammer or mallet
• Several screwdrivers – cross-cut and flat-head – of various sizes
• Ideally a multi-wrench
• A highly portable multi-tool
• At least one flashlight and batteries to power it
• Because you’re carrying your own plumbing, one plunger

Medications And First Aid

There are two levels of medication you might need on a road trip.

First, if you take any ongoing medication for a chronic condition, remember to pack enough of it for the whole trip PLUS two days, in case of complications en route.

Obviously, store all prescription medications out of the reach of children – even if they are prescription medications for the children. 

But if you’re diabetic, asthmatic, have ADHD or anxiety, there’s no way you want to be 200 miles from home when you realize your medication’s in the cabinet at home.

Apart from the potentially serious side effects of missed doses, you really don’t want to have to spend money on replacement meds while you have them sitting at home. 

That will make you feel like a diagnosed dumbass. Also, a lot poorer than you thought you were.

And second, there’s first aid. Anything can happen on a road trip. If you’re taking a road trip with children, anything is almost clinically guaranteed to happen. 

Headaches, coughs, poison ivy, scraped knees, you name it – it’s probably out there waiting with your child’s name on it. 

Take a reasonable first aid kit for the region you’re heading into – including sunscreen, bug spray, and calamine lotion if you’re going to enjoy some sun. Sure, they say a parent’s kiss can cure a thousand ills.

Take the lotion anyway.

Everything But The Kitchen Sink

If you’re going to be cooking, eating, and washing up after your meals on board the RV, you’re going to need to bring everything necessary with you.

Kitchen Checklist - Serving

• At least two size-appropriate plates for every family member
• Potentially, one bowl for every family member
• Two items of each type of cutlery per family member – forks, spoons, knives
• Two mugs per adult
• One juice glass per family member
• One wine glass/beer glass per adult, as required

Kitchen Checklist – Cooking

• Three deep pans, various sizes – think pasta, sauce, vegetable
• One frying pan
• At least one wooden spoon
• At least one silicone spatula
• At least one slotted spoon
• At least one drainer, suitable for pasta, vegetables, etc
• At least three sharp knives – meat prep, vegetable prep, one spare as needed
• One can opener, minimum. Two for safety
• Cheese grater – simply because you’ll realize how much you miss it when you don’t have one

Kitchen Checklist – Washing

• Dishwashing soap
• Utensil of choice for cleaning dishes
• Dish drying towel, if usual

We’ve mentioned this previously, and the exact make-up of what you take on your adventure will be up to you.

We suggest lots of long-life products, like pasta, rice, beans, etc. 

Lots of snack foods to avoid the need to cook full meals to kill a hunger-pang. Canned products as appropriate. 

Limit the fresh and refrigerated to absolute must-haves, to save space. Take enough to allow for a certain spirit of adventurous gluttony.

Good intentions and back-up plans are the order of the day when packing clothes for a road trip.

Ideally, take enough casual clothing so there is at least one outfit per family member per day.

One slightly more formal outfit per family member, in case of dining out.

Significant extra socks and underwear, because they are prone to accidents, from stepping in big puddles and soaking through the shoes to finding a muddy spot and sitting in it, accidents will happen, and when they do, the last thing anyone wants is to be sitting around in squelchy socks or muddy underwear.

Also, include appropriate weather gear – sun hats, rain ponchos, wellington boots, earmuffs – you know the terrain you’re going into. Pack accordingly for the most likely weather.

If you’re aiming to get out in nature and do some hiking, add appropriate footwear for all the family.

Aside from clothes for the family, it’s always a good idea to put fresh bed linen on the beds when you start out on a new road trip. 

It helps deliver that feeling of being both away from home, and yet connected to all the good things that home provides, while you’re off on your adventure.

Toiletries & Personal Care

From nail files to toothbrushes, toothpaste, and dental floss, you’d be amazed what you forget when you leave the day-to-day world of home life behind.  Remember to take enough toilet tissue to last you the whole trip – you never know when you might need it, even outside the vehicle (not all restrooms are necessarily adequately provided!).

Take towels, wash cloths, potentially razors or shavers, perfume, cologne, nail clippers, mouthwash, acne cream, tampons – you name it, you go through your bathroom at home and make sure to duplicate on a smaller scale. 

There’s no reason why each family member shouldn’t have their own small toiletries bag to keep separately.

Navigation Aids

We all know we live in an age of navigation on our phones – but the navigation signal receiver in your average smartphone is the size of a paperclip, trying to receive and interpret an already weak signal coming from satellites in low-earth orbit.

Just saying. Take some paper maps and route-planners, too.

Individual Bags

If you’re aiming to get out into nature and do some hiking, it would be useful for each family member to have a bag or rucksack appropriate to their size. 

When getting on board the RV, this could be filled with their own personal choice of amusements – from e-readers, a couple of good (paper) books, packs of cards, etc, to miniature game consoles, every doll ever made, or a handful of action figures.

These could then be each person’s travel diversion bags, but when needed for hiking, could be filled with more appropriate things like energy bars, water supplies, and the like.

In addition to this, games that can be played as a family are always good on a road trip. They can bring everyone back together after a day of traveling, seeing new things, and adventuring.

Every USB Charger Known To Man

Yes, the point of a great RV road trip adventure is to get out into the country, spend time together, reconnect with one another and the world around you. But on the other hand, if your phone battery dies, you’re as good as dead.

Take at least one charger per personal device, be it a laptop, a games console, an MP3 player, a phone. You need to be able to charge all these – more or less simultaneously.

In fact, you could do worse than also investing in a solar power station, which converts the sun’s energy into usable, device-charging power without it costing you any additional cash.

An Awesome Playlist

It’s not a real road trip without an awesome playlist.

In fact, and this will be controversial with most adults, everybody should make their own awesome playlist. 

So while Mom and Dad crank out their road classics from an age gone by, the kids too have a chance to educate their parents on what Real Music is.

It’s possible no adult reading this will ever tell their children about the suggestion. That’s on you – we’ve done our due diligence by the next generation.

While talking about playlists, it’s also an idea to load up your phone with a couple of kid-friendly audiobooks for the journey too, for a change of pace, a calming influence, and even an aid to sleep of an evening.

Other Technology

It’s worth investing in a Bluetooth headset for your phone, because it is of course illegal to answer a phone by hand while driving. 

You might also invest in a portable wi-fi hub, because this is the 21 st century, and even adventures are made better by the ability to stay connected with friends, family, the news, and the ever-crucial socials.

Taking a road trip in an RV is a great opportunity to get away from the day-to-day and experience new things. It can be an experience that makes memories for everyone on the RV, including some that will last for decades. 

It’s a way of connecting to the great pioneering spirit of America, while being always firmly rooted in the 21 st century.

It takes proper planning and some budgeting to pilot a modern RV, but the preparation, the planning, the pre-booking, and the parking checks will all ultimately reward you with a smooth trip, hopefully filled with shared laughter, new experiences, and an infusion of wonder that will keep the smile alive inside you for years to come.

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The Best RV Road Trip Routes: RVing Across America  

Seeking the best RV road trip routes to experience America’s awe-inspiring landscapes and cultural gems? From the iconic “mother road” Route 66 to the majestic Pacific Coast Highway and an epic tour of all 47 National Parks, there’s a road trip that will fit in any calendar ( and any budget) 

These top seven road trips will get you out on the open road. Before long, you’ll be surrounded by scenic landscapes and ready to make unforgettable memories. 

Get ready to explore cityscapes, natural wonders, and everything in between.

How to Enjoy RV Routes Worry-Free

Before we start, here are a few quick tips to help you enjoy your journey.

• Plan the right route: Before starting your trip, ensure your route is suitable for an RV your size. Next, confirm that you can complete the route in a reasonable time frame. You don’t want to drive all that way, but not have time to stop and savor the sights.
• Be prepared for unexpected stops: It’s inevitable. Something will go wrong with your RV on a road trip. So plan ahead. If you’re the handy type known for fixing up cars, then bring your tools along–or just secure roadside assistance through AAA or GoodSam . That way, you’ll have someone who can help if/when something goes awry. 
• Take your time: When you get to your destinations. Give yourself ample time to soak in the area, the beauty, and the culture of your stops. That’s where the real stories happen.

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#7: The Classic: Route 66

Photo courtesy of roadtrippers.com

It’s no longer printed on roadmaps. It can no longer take you all the way from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. But Route 66 is still the epitome of the undying free spirit that moves Americans from east to west and west to east. 

But even though parts of Route 66 are closed now , you can still drive through places like Oatman, Vegas, Springfield, and Galena to experience local attractions, museums, and markets that made the westward move possible. From national monuments like the Gateway in St. Louis, Missouri, to local attractions like the Cadillac Ranch, Route 66 speaks to the soul of every road trip with its novelty, history, and beautiful scenery. 

But before you travel the “Main Street of America,” you should know that there are sections that are in pretty bad shap e. You’ll have to use the interstate for those sections before rejoining the route at a better location. 

Trip Details:

• Distance: 2,448 miles
• Time away (including sightseeing) : 2-8 weeks 
• States crossed : IL, MO, KS, OK, TX, NM, AZ, and CA
• RV recommendation : Any
• Camping accommodations : KOA, Route 66 RV Parks and Resorts

#6: Your Pan-American Tour: US Highway

Photo courtesy of thrifty.com

The Great Northern Route of US Highway 2 is the epic road trip that takes you from sea to shining sea. The longest transcontinental road trip begins at the majestic Acadia National Park in Maine – one of the highest points in the continental US. Then, you’ll follow the trail of great trailblazers Lewis and Clark across to the Pacific Ocean at Olympic National Park. 

Along your 3,600-mile journey, you pass through several other national parks and sacred lands like the Badlands of North Dakota and Theodore Roosevelt National Park. You cross plains, lakes, and the Sawtooth Range until you’ve seen this country from sea to shining sea.

• Distance : 3,600 miles
• Time away (including sightseeing) : 2-4 weeks
• States crossed : ME, NH, VT, NY, MI, WI, MN, ND, MT, ID, and WA
• RV Recommendation : Any
• RV accommodations : Roadside Resorts, National and State Parks.

#5: The National Parks Route

Photo courtesy of drytortugas.com

If you’re an RV explorer who hates missing out on amazing views and breathtaking scenery, this next road trip route is for you. See all 47 National Parks on one epic road trip. 

• Ski down the Y-couloir at Rocky Mountain National Park. 
• Kayak the sea caves along the Acadia Atlantic coast . 
• Find glowing aquatic life as you scuba or snorkel off the Dry Tortugas in the Florida Keys. 
• Watch Old Faith erupt at Yellowstone National Park . 
• Stand in awe at the rim of the Grand Canyon. 

America’s incredible national parks are our national treasures. It’s time we experience what makes them so valuable. And do our part to pass them on to the next generation.

• Distance: 14,498 miles roundtrip 
• Time away (including sightseeing) : 3-4 months+
• States NOT crossed : AL, MS, LA, OK, KS, NE, MO, IA, IL, IN, PA, and VT
• RV Recommendation : Class B , Class C, Class A and travel trailers under 40 ft. 
• RV accommodations : National Parks

…okay, so not many people have 3-4 months to burn on vacation. Or maybe you’re taking the kids and don’t want to be on the road with them that long. 

So here’s a compromise. Take it one state at a time. Starting with Utah’s ‘Mighty Five’ National Parks. 

Save up to $1,200/year on RV storage & parking

#4: mighty five: utah’s national park circuit.

Photo courtesy of Utah.com

The ‘Mighty Five,’ Utah’s National Park Circuit, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Comprising:

• Canyonlands
• Capitol Reef
• Bryce Canyon 
• And Zion National Park

The circuit is a geological wonder, showcasing distinctive arches, canyons, rock formations, and plateaus. Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast, a rock climbing aficionado, or a nature photographer, these parks offer activities to suit every preference. 

What’s more? These parks are close together. So traveling from one to the other is easier for younger children. (That also means you’ll have more time to explore in the parks during your RV trip and spend less time on the road) . 

• Distance: 900 miles 
• Time away (including sightseeing): 10 days-2 weeks
• States crossed: UT
• RV Recommendation: Class B, Class C, Class A, and travel trailers under 40 ft. 

#3: The Civil War Historic Itinerary

Not all RV vacations are for beauty and renewal. Sometimes they’re for teaching and reflecting. That’s what the Civil War Historic Route is for. It is purposefully short, focusing on key battles and points in the Civil War. 

Yes, there is beauty where green fields now lie hallowed by the brave men whose blood consecrated it. But instead of awe and wonder, let it inspire reflection and dedication to the remembrance of history and its lessons – lest we forget. 

Begin in Fredericksburg, where the Confederacy won a lopsided battle, and end at Gettysburg, taking your time in reflection as you retrace one of the bloodiest wars in our history.

• Distance : 140 miles 
• Time away (including sightseeing) : 3-10 days
• States crossed: VA, MD, and PA

#2: The Pacific Coast Highway Getaway

Photo courtesy of valisemag.com

There’s nothing like the open road to leave it all behind, much like there’s nothing like the beach to let it all go. So whatever huge life change you’re going through – a bad breakup, a job loss, a hard death – the perfect road for you is the Pacific Coast Highway. It’s not too sunny when you start in Olympia, Washington– but not too gloomy. 

Enjoy a stroll through the Hoh Rainforest before rolling down the windows and letting the aroma from the fields of sweet mint and lavender waft through your car. Be sure to clear your mind, so you can appreciate the simple beauty of the waves crashing on the rocks by the time you get to Sea Lion Caves. 

As you travel south, through Seattle and Northern California, the sun will begin to peek out, and you can enjoy Humboldt Redwood State Park and west coast sunsets all the way down to San Diego. 

• Distance: 1,675 miles 
• Time away (including sightseeing) : 5-10 days 
• States crossed : WA, OR, and CA
• RV Accommodations : National and State Park Campgrounds, Local RV resorts

#1: Absorb New England in the Fall

Photo courtesy of practicalwanderlust.com

You’ve got time to spare. And you’ve never seen the seasons fade into fall. But now that you’ve got time for a little leaf peeping, what better place than New England and Maine?

You’ll start at Eastport, travel Highway 1 South, and travel down Maine’s rocky coast all the way to Boston. 

The drive itself isn’t long. You could do it in a day if you want. But, instead, take your time stopping at places like Bar Harbor and the Historic Cherry Field – the blueberry capital of the world. 

• RV Recommendation : Class A-C, long trailers may have trouble.
• RV Accommodations : KOA and private RV parks

Before You Set Off on Your Adventure

We’ve traveled from one side of this country to the other–from mountain to coast and from sea to shining sea. And we didn’t even get to talk about what an unforgettable experience the Blue Ridge Parkway holds or the iconic Columbia River Highway – so remember those the next time you’re RV trip planning. 

But even the best RV road trips must come to an end . And as you unpack, you’re thankful that you can make these RV trips with your loved ones. Your RV gives you bonding experiences with those closest to you.

And you want that to last for years to come. 

That’s why, after you clean it out and perform the proper maintenance, you’ll want to look for a safe place to store your RV. 

You’ve been storing it in your backyard. Yet, after talking to other seasoned RVers on this trip, you now realize the importance of covered storage to prevent the oxidation that UV rays cause and lessen the chances of a limb or other debris falling on it and damaging the roof. 

That’s where Neighbor can help. 

Neighbor is a peer-to-peer storage marketplace where you can find safe, affordable storage that’s close to your home. 

You can browse the different spaces near you here .  

So, pack your bags, fuel up your RV, and hit the road. Your next RV adventure awaits!

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A Beginner’s Guide to RV Road Tripping Along Route 66

Traveling the historic route between Chicago and Los Angeles is the quintessential American road trip—and a great cross-country trip to do in an RV. It’s not America’s longest or oldest highway. Yet, it stands out in American history as a symbol of freedom; from the time the automobile became accessible to all, and how it transformed society during the 1930s and 1940s.

Today, much of the original Route 66 is still navigable, with hundreds of historic landmarks, tourist attractions, old time diners, natural wonders, and campgrounds lining the route. The entire 2,400-mile route makes for an epic RV trip, or you can tick off one segment at a time, in any of the eight states that the route passes through. Either way, a Route 66 RV trip is a nostalgic journey through America’s early days of westward travel.

What is Route 66?

Also known as the Mother Road or the Main Street of America , Route 66 was designated a highway in 1926. Contrasted with other major interstates at the time, Route 66 headed west in a diagonal fashion offering the fastest way to California from the Midwest. The route wound through many small towns in the Midwest and Southwest. Consequently, hundreds of hotels, cafes, gas stations, and kitschy tourist attractions sprung up along the route.

Route 66 was widely celebrated in popular culture. For example, the highway provided the backdrop for John Steinbeck’s novel The Grapes of Wrath . And the road was forever immortalized in Bobby Troup’s “ (Get Your Kicks on) Route 66 ” song.

Over time, sections of Route 66 were slowly replaced by the newer, wider Highway 40. Then in the early 1980s, the route was eventually decommissioned entirely. However, nostalgia for the route persisted, and in 1990 the state of Missouri declared the route a “State Historic Route.” This spurred a movement to protect the landmark old motels and historic signage along the route, as well as a renewed interest in road tripping along the route.

Must-See Roadside Attractions on Route 66

Nick Fox / Shutterstock.com

Grant Park (Chicago)

Chicago’s Grant Park marks the eastern terminus of Route 66. Several relics of Route 66’s heyday remain near the park including historic Route 66 signage and the Clarence Buckingham Memorial Fountain.

Milk Bottle Grocery (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma)

Route 66 is known for its gimmicky sights, and the giant milk bottle atop a grocery building in Oklahoma City is certainly a favorite of route-goers. This old grocery building has been around since 1930, but the giant milk bottle wasn’t placed on top until 1948. The store was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1998, and has been home to a real estate office, cleaners, and a Vietnamese sandwich shop since its original grocery days.

National Route 66 Museum (Elk City, Oklahoma)

You’ll find several Route 66 museums along the way, and the National Route 66 Museum in Elk City, Oklahoma is one of the most comprehensive. The museum offers visitors a journey through all eight states, and features plenty of old Route 66 signs, kitschy artifacts, antique cars, and a huge collection of Popeye memorabilia.

Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo, Texas)

This quirky public art installation outside of Amarillo, Texas is one of Route 66’s most popular attractions. The sculpture is made up of ten old Cadillacs, half-buried nose down in the dusty Texas countryside, as a monument to America’s “Golden Age of the Automobile”. Graffiti is encouraged and the cars undergo ever-changing designs based on passersby leaving their mark. Also, don’t miss the galleries, antique shops, and historic saloons in the Route 66 Historic District just west of downtown Amarillo.

Delgadillo’s Snow Cap (Seligman, Arizona)

Originally built in 1953, Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In is still run by the original owner’s family. To lure visitors, Juan Delgadillo sliced the top off of his 1936 Chevrolet hardtop and adorned it with crazy trinkets and an artificial Christmas tree in the back. The eatery is a bit of a funhouse with fake door knobs, slightly used napkins, and fanciful outhouse bathrooms behind the restaurant.

Santa Monica Pier

Where Route 66 officially ends is debatable. The original western terminus was in downtown Los Angeles, but the route was extended to Santa Monica in 1935. Today, a sign on the Santa Monica Pier marks the “End of the Trail.” With a ferris wheel, arcades, street performers, and plenty of restaurants and bars, Santa Monica Pier is just as lively as it was during the glory days of Route 66 travel and the perfect spot to celebrate the end of your Route 66 road trip.

Where to Camp Along Route 66

Image from the Dyrt camper Chris S.

St. Louis West/Historic Route 66 KOA (Eureka, Missouri)

Just 30 minutes from downtown St. Louis , the St. Louis West/Historic Route 66 KOA offers RV sites with full hookups, tent sites, and cabin rentals. This amenity-packed Route 66 RV campground features a pool, off-leash dog park, bike rentals, basketball court, ping pong, and more.

Oasis RV Resort (Amarillo, Texas)

Image from the Dyrt camper Jil S.

Just down the road from Cadillac Ranch, the Oasis RV Resort in Amarillo, Texas is one of the top rated Route 66 RV parks. You’ll find full service pull-thru RV sites, as well as cabin rentals with free cable and WiFi. Other amenities include an onsite restaurant, dog park, pool, and playground.

Route 66 RV Resort (Albuquerque, New Mexico)

Located just outside Albuquerque, New Mexico , the Route 66 RV Resort offers spacious sites with all the amenities. Resort highlights include pickleball courts, swimming pool, putting green, and open-air kitchen with gas grills and plenty of picnic space. Plus, the Route 66 Casino Hotel is just steps away from the resort. The casino hotel is themed with Route 66 memorabilia and features casino games, several entertainment venues, and a nightclub.

Grand Canyon Railway RV Park (Williams, Arizona)

Image from the Dyrt camper Bounding Around

Set in the town of Williams, Arizona , the gateway to Grand Canyon National Park , the Grand Canyon Railway RV Park offers 124 pull-thru sites with full hookups. Guests also have access to amenities like laundry facilities, hot showers, a dog park, and fitness trails. The resort is located adjacent to the historic Grand Canyon Railway Station where you can catch the train into Grand Canyon National Park. It’s also within walking distance to restaurants like Goldies Route 66 Restaurant and the Grand Canyon Brewery.

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10 best us road trips to make in an rv.

Ah, road trips.

The stuff that dreams and epic movie scripts are made of.

Traveling the US in an RV opens up endless possibilities for adventure. So endless, in fact, that you might have trouble making a decision on where the heck to go!

Luckily (and with help from the great folk over at RVshare) I’ve compiled a list of the most historic, famous and best US road trips so that you can just pick one and get out there.

So whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-timer, all you’ve got to do is just read on and decide which is the next perfect trip for you.

Related Posts

• How to Save Money on Gas During a Road Trip
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This article was written in conjunction with RVshare and contains affiliate links, meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you.

Great RV Road Trips You Can Take in a Weekend

Interested in packing your weekend itinerary full of scenic roads and must-see destinations? Then these short road trips serve up the best of both worlds in a tight time frame.

They’re perfect if you’re renting an RV from a rental network like RVshare , or if you just have to be back at work on Monday.

Get a Great Deal on an RV Rental here !

#1 Hermann Wine Trail

One of the shortest drives on this list of the best US road trips, is the Hermann Wine Trail, which offers plenty of time to enjoy the sights, smells and tastes of Missouri wine country, as you meander along the Missouri River for 20 miles, from Hermann to New Haven.

Though short in distance, the Hermann Wine Trail is chock full of things to do.

There are seven wineries and tons of monthly events along the route – more than enough to keep occupied for a few days!

#2 The Florida Keys

Looking for something a little more tropical?

Then the Florida Overseas Highway is ideal! Spanning the Keys from Key Largo to Key West, this best US road trip is roughly 100 miles in total.

Along this route you can enjoy snorkeling, swimming with dolphins and exploring state parks / museums, as well as the breathtaking views from each of the 42 bridges connecting the islands.

The Overseas Highway is easily one of the most scenic roads in the country, which certainly places it as one of the best US road trips you can take.

See How Much you Could Make by Renting your RV HERE !

#3 the alabama coast.

The Alabama Gulf Coast is home to some of the most historic sites in the US.

Tour the stately mansions and their gardens, or check out the World War II battleships and submarines instead.

The Alabama Coastal Connection also takes you on a cultural journey, through a fascinating and rich landscape in which Creole, French, and Spanish heritage all mix.

Start in Mobile and travel south along Route 98.

Then loop down and around the State’s many scenic byways.

#4 Cherohala Skyway

This entry on my list of the best US road trips takes you through the plains and mountains of Tennessee and North Carolina.

The 40-mile journey begins in Tellico Plains in southeast Tennessee. From here, you can then explore the many overlooks and rivers along the Skyway.

You’ll also wind through the Great Smoky Mountains, where there’s plenty of hiking and historical landmarks to enjoy.

Your trip ends in Robbinsville, North Carolina, home to the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, which is well worth a visit.

Don’t Forget These Items for Your Road Trip

• Kleen Kanteen Water Bottle
• Thermos Mug
• Sony A6000 Mirrorless Camera to capture all those memories
• Aux Cable for the tunes!

#5 Death Valley

Who can list the best US road trips and not mention Death Valley?!

From the world’s largest tree to the hottest and lowest place this side of the globe, Death Valley is certainly a world of extremes.

There’s a lot of ground to explore here, but a short weekend trip can take you from Los Angeles to Las Vegas through Death Valley and back in 14 hours.

Make sure to plan your route and research the climate ahead of time however – temperatures of up to 134 °F have been recorded out here!

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Long RV Road Trips

If you have more time on your hands and want to go on a longer adventure, then this opens you up to exploring some of the other best US road trips out there!

Even if you don’t have an RV, don’t rule a long road trip out.

You can easily rent one long-term from sites like RVshare .

Then all you need do is pack your bag and plan your route along one of these unforgettable journeys.

#1 Route 66

Route 66 is the epitome of the best US road trips.

Running from Chicago, Illinois to Los Angeles, California, this famed 2,448-mile journey charts the evolution of modern American culture.

Along the way you’ll explore cities, small towns and expansive landscapes.

Just don’t go too wild on buying souvenirs from the roadside landmarks and attractions.

There’s a lot of them and you might have trouble fitting all of your new purchases in your vehicle!!

#2 The Pacific Coast Highway

Another classic adventure on the must-do list of the best US road trips is the Pacific Coast Highway.

Deciding to undertake this journey gives you the perfect excuse take a little more time off from work, especially if you pair it with Route 66 as well!

Whilst enjoying the ocean breeze from this coastal highway, which runs from Los Angeles to Olympia, Washington, you’ll visit many popular cities and towns, as well as take in some of the most sweeping views the country has to offer.

If you have an equal appreciation for the sea and the forest, then this road trip is definitely one you can’t skip.

#3 Cross-Country Trip: Historic US-80

What better way to see the US than to travel across the entire south?

The remnants of what was once US-80 will now take you from sunny San Diego all the way east to Savannah, GA, during which you’ll travel through landscapes as diverse as deserts, plains and bayous.

Culture and cuisine are equally diverse along this road. Whether you love Tex-Mex, BBQ or crawfish, you’ll find plenty of mouthwatering eateries in every state along the way!

#4 Cross-Country Trip: The Great Northern

If the sweltering heat of the south is too much for you, then you can always opt to cross the country via the Great Northern, along the US-2, instead.

Totaling more than 2,500 miles from Washington to Maine, this is the longest trip on my list of the 10 best US road trips, but its length will allow you to encounter great prairies, mountains and even hardwood forests.

The Great Northern is definitely a road trip for nature lovers, where unforgettable vistas outnumber bustling towns and cities.

You’ll definitely love this route if you want some time to appreciate the natural beauty of northern America.

#5 The Atlantic Coast

While the east coast is rich with American history and picturesque scenery, the Atlantic Coast is one road trip you’re definitely better to plan ahead.

The trick being to avoid I-95 and stick to any detours and scenic byways instead.

If you do, you’ll journey through historic colonial sites and quintessential New England towns.

You’ll also find famed lighthouses, boardwalks and stunning landmarks along this 2,400-mile coastal adventure.

Depending on the direction you’re travelling, your trip will either end in Maine or Florida.

Travel Insurance for the US

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

The United States has so much to offer in the way of culture and natural beauty.

You could easily spend most of your life on the road here and still not experience all there is to do and see.

But it’s worth a shot right?!

Have you made any of these best US road trips before?

Or do you have your own favourite?

I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

13 thoughts on “ 10 BEST US Road Trips to Make in an RV ”

I would add Shenandoah to the list. I’m a HUGE proponent of the great American Roadtrip (actually did a big solo one from Philly to Oklahoma via Niagara Falls that was so fun), I would put driving Shenandoah in Virginia as one of my top 5 places to drive in the US.

Great post!

That’s a really great addition Stephanie that I hadn’t even thought about! You solo trip sounds epic too! Thank you so much for wetting our US road trip whistle even further!

Hi. We are 4 swedes doing our first RV trip in the US. We will be going from Orlando to Las Vegas. Any tips on what to see along the way? Thanks

In March, by the way.

Almost too many Leo! How long do you guys have?

I forgot… both Death Valley and Valley of Fire , Nevada are very interesting places for a road trip. Valley of Fire is even better in my mind, even tough it is smaller.

Thanks for the advice Robin, that’s so great to know you enjoyed them, Valley of Fire especially 🙂

We are thinking going to the Florida Keys in July/August. We know it will be really hot… Would you still recommend this road trip at that time of the year?

I’d definitely take climate into account Marco. It’s hard for me to advise about when people should make trips exactly. I personally love the heat, but others can’t stand it or aren’t used to it, so travelling from them in these conditions can be unbearable. I think it’s about judging what you’re used to and what you think you can deal with! 🙂

While it “feels” hot in Florida it is usually attributed to the humidity. Temperatures rarely get into the 90’s and the abundance of water activities along with air conditioning make it a great time to take your trip.

Thanks for the advice Tim – great info 🙂

Hi, Steph, we are planning to come over from Australia. There is 5 of us myself, my husband and our three children 9yrs, 7yrs and 4yrs. we are wanting to hire a motorhome and spend a month seeing all we can. Do you have any advise on routes/places that are a must. I want as much history, adventure and fun as possible. we will land in LAX and fly out from there as well, sowas thinking about doing a big lap around usa as well as stopping at Lake louise in Canada. Any advise for us would be much appreciated. 🙂

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Planning an RV road trip? AAA has you covered.

RV travel is more popular than ever. As you’re planning your next trip, AAA is your one-stop shop—before, during, and after your journey—for all things RV.

Whether you’re a beginner or an RV veteran, we have multiple resources to help make your trip unforgettable.

Let’s get started. You can rent or buy RVs, map out your trip, find campgrounds, and get the right gear. Plus, as always, you can count on us to be by your side at every turn.

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How to Choose the Right RV for Your Next Road Trip, According to Experts

Get ready for your next road trip

So, you want to rent or buy an RV for your next road trip. But if you've done any research about recreational vehicles , you've probably found that there are a wide variety of options to choose from, and it can be difficult to decipher which one will best fit your needs. From massive Class A motorhomes to petite camper vans, some vehicles are great for families and large groups looking to set up camp in the great outdoors, while others are best for couples and solo travelers who are constantly on the go.

That's why we consulted the experts at Outdoorsy , an RV rental company with a wide variety of vehicles available across the country, about how to choose the right RV for your next road trip. First, consider where you'll be staying. Most vehicles available for rent will be compatible with RV parks and campgrounds, since they can be plugged into power. But if you're camping off the grid, you'll want to make sure your RV has a solar panel or standalone generator. You'll also want to consider how many people you're traveling with. Families and larger groups will likely want to opt for vehicles with more space and amenities, like Class A and C motorhomes. However, if you're traveling alone or as a couple, you'll find that camper vans and small towable trailers (like Airstream) offer just enough space.

Below, we've broken down seven types of recreational vehicles that you'll want to take on your next adventure. The best part? Each of these RV categories is available to rent on Outdoorsy .

Class A Motorhome

By far the most spacious and luxurious recreational vehicles, Class A motorhomes are great for families and larger groups, since some can accommodate up to 10 people. Those who choose one of these motorhomes should be comfortable driving bus-sized vehicles and dealing with parking limitations. And if you want the luxury of a Class A vehicle without the hassle of driving it, many are available for delivery on Outdoorsy.

To rent: outdoorsy.com

Class B Motorhome (Camper Van)

Class B motorhomes, perhaps better known as camper vans, are probably what come to mind when you think of those dreamy van life posts on Instagram. They aren't quite as spacious as other options on this list, but they're much easier to drive and park. From custom vans to vintage Volkswagens, these vehicles are a great option for solo travelers, couples, and travelers with pets.

Class C Motorhome

A popular choice among small families and first-time RV drivers , Class C motorhomes offer comfort and convenience, since most come furnished with a bathroom, shower, and full kitchen. According to the experts at Outdoorsy, driving a Class C vehicle is similar to driving a truck.

Travel Trailer

Travel trailers can be towed behind most vehicles, including SUVs and trucks. This category includes the traveler-loved Airstream trailer, which provides both sleeping and living space in a vintage atmosphere. While some trailers can sleep up to six people, they're generally the right size for a couple or small family.

Fifth Wheel Camper

Fifth wheels are another towable option, and they attach to the bed of a truck. They're larger than traditional trailers, making them perfect for families and groups on camping excursions or road trips. These types of trailers often have spacious layouts and luxurious amenities, similar to those of Class A motorhomes.

Pop-up/Folding Camper

Pop-up campers, sometimes called folding trailers, are great for towing behind passenger vehicles and SUVs. The campers are compact upon first glance, but they fold out to offer more tented space. Given how easy these trailers are to transport, they're ideal for camping as a couple or small family.

Truck Camper

According to the experts at Outdoorsy, it's as simple as this: If you can drive a truck, you can drive a truck camper. These campers feature a bed tucked over the roof and living space in the truck bed, making them a solid option for solo travelers and couples.

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Irresistible Road Trips You Need to Take With Your RV

How to Choose an RV for Your Family Road Trip

• RV Destinations  | 
• Family Friendly  | 

If you are looking for the best way to take a family road trip, look no further than Cruise America’s lineup of modern RV rentals . With a range of models to choose from, you can find the perfect RV to suit your family's needs. This blog will guide you through the different RV rental models Cruise America offers, highlighting their features and amenities.

Additionally, it will provide you with essential questions to ask when searching for the right RV for your family road trip and offer guidance on selecting an RV that fits the size and needs of your family, including considerations for sleeping arrangements and storage capacity.

Cruise America’s RV Models

The compact RV rental is perfect for couples looking to go on a  weekend getaway . With space for three people, you can even bring your child along for the adventure. Our compact unit is a fully self-contained RV designed with a unique rear kitchen layout that includes all the amenities of a larger model. Perfect for two adults of any age, it also features a dinette that folds into an extra bed for a child. With 6.5-foot (2-meter) ceilings and walk-through convenience, even tall campers can comfortably enjoy the space.

First-time renters will appreciate the narrower width, which makes driving in hilly areas safer and parking in any lot or RV parks a breeze.

Max Capacity: 3

Ford V-8 Chassis Engine

Automatic Transmission

2-Wheel Drive

ABS Power Brakes

Power Steering

In Dash Air Conditioning

Cruise Control

Single Rear Tires

Generator (USA Only)

Stereo Sound System

LP Gas/12 Volt Furnace

40 gal./151 L Fuel Tank

20.5 gal./76 L Fresh Water Tank

6 gal./22 L Water Heater Tank

17 gal./64 L Sewage Water Tank

16 gal./62 L Grey Water Tank

11 gal./45 L LP Gas Tank

6 cu ft/.17 CM Outside Storage Space

Length: 20 ft./6.1 

The cab-over bed provides plenty of space, and the rear dinette converts into a bed, comfortably accommodating up to four people. The new layout maximizes space, featuring all the improvements from our other models and increased exterior storage. The kitchen and bathroom are centrally located, allowing for a larger dinette/sleeping area at the back.

First-time renters will find the narrower 7.5 feet (2.3 meters) width beneficial, making driving in hilly areas safer and parking in any lot easier in this size RV.

As with all Cruise America RVs, excess weight has been removed without compromising structural integrity. Reducing vehicle weight and using nitrogen-filled tires to maintain pressure results in better gas mileage.

Max Capacity: 4

l./45 L LP Gas Tank

10.75 cu ft/.3 cm Outside Storage Space

Length: 20.5 ft./6.55 m

Travel Trailer

A custom-built trailer equipped with all the amenities of a motorhome, offering the flexibility to use your own vehicle for easy travel.

The following qualifications apply to renting a Cruise America Travel Trailer:

The towing vehicle must be registered in the renter's name.

The towing vehicle's owner must provide a current unexpired vehicle registration.

The towing vehicle's owner must provide proof of insurance on the towing vehicle.

The towing vehicle must be capable of towing 3,8000 pounds and have a Class III hitch, Class III ball mount, and a two-inch hitch ball.

Cruise America RVs or rental vehicles from third parties are not authorized to tow a Cruise America Travel Trailer.

Sorry, the Cruise America Travel Trailer is currently only available at these rental centers, but more are on the way:

Bakersfield, CA

Boise (Caldwell), ID

Dallas (Carrollton), TX

Denver (Frederick), CO

Las Vegas (Henderson), N

Los Angeles (Carson), CA

Missoula (Lolo), MT

Orlando (Kissimmee), FL

Phoenix (Mesa), AZ

Portland (Sherwood), OR

Sacramento (Dixon), CA

Salt Lake City (Murray) UT

San Diego (Spring Valley), CA

San Francisco (Newark) CA

Seattle (Everett) WA

Tacoma (Gig Harbor), WA

Gross weight 3,800 lbs.

Dry weight 2,910 lbs

Overall length 19'-7" (ball to rear bumper)

30 gal Fresh Water Tank

6 gal. Water Heater Tank

35 gal Sewage Water Tank

35 gal Grey Water Tank

20 lb. LP Gas Tank

A top choice for families, this economical unit offers the walk-through convenience of a motorhome. A classic motorhome with all the self-contained features you expect for RV life, including a power generator in USA units. This budget-friendly family model remains a favorite for those who appreciate the walk-through convenience of a motorhome. Visiting national parks is easy and convenient with the extra space this RV provides. 

Max Capacity: 5

Power Brakes

Dual Rear Tires

LP Gas/12-Volt Furnace

55 gal./208 L Fuel Tank

12.2 gal./46.2 L LP Gas Tank

40 gal./151.4 L Fresh Water Tank

6 gal./22.7 L Water Heater Tank

24.5 gal./92.7 L Sewage Tank

24.5 gal./92.7 L Grey Water Tank

51 cu ft/1.4 CM Outside Storage Space

Length: 25 ft./7.6 m

A classic motorhome favored by families for its convenient walk-through layout and essential features. This economical unit is a traditional favorite for those seeking the self-contained amenities and ease of a motorhome.

Max Capacity: 7

Ford V-10 Chassis Engine

25 gal./94.6 L Sewage Water Tank

22 gal./83.3 L Grey Water Tank

93 cu ft/2.3 cu m Outside Storage Space

Length: 30 ft./9.1 m

What To Ask When Selecting an RV Model

When searching for the right RV for your family road trip, it's important to ask the right questions to ensure you select the best model for your needs. Here are some key questions to consider when choosing the right RV:

How many people will the RV need to accommodate, and how much space would you like?

Ensure the RV has enough sleeping arrangements for your entire family.

What are the storage requirements?

Consider how much storage space you will need for luggage, food, and other essentials.

What amenities are essential for your trip?

Make a list of must-have features such as a kitchen, bathroom, air conditioning, and entertainment systems.

What is your budget?

Determine how much you are willing to spend on the rental and factor in additional costs like fuel and campsite fees.

How comfortable are you with driving and maneuvering the RV?

Choose a model that you feel confident driving, especially if you are a first-time renter.

How to Choose an RV Rental for Your Family

Selecting the right RV rental for your family involves careful consideration of your needs and preferences. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice:

Assess Your Family’s Size and Needs:

Choose an RV with adequate sleeping arrangements and space to ensure everyone is comfortable. Check the floor plan when rental RV shopping to find the best fit and ensure it offers enough space. 

Prioritize Essential Amenities:

Look for models that include the amenities you need for a pleasant trip, such as a fully equipped kitchen, bathroom facilities, and air conditioning.

Consider the Duration of Your Trip:

For longer trips, you might want an RV with more space and storage, while a smaller model might suffice for weekend trips.

Evaluate the RV’s Driving Ease:

If you are new to RV driving, opt for a model with features that make driving easier, like narrower widths for better maneuverability.

Check Rental Locations:

Ensure the rental location is convenient for pickup and drop-off, and confirm that the RV model you want is available at that location.

Contact Cruise America to Reserve Your RV Rental

Hopefully, this guide has assisted you in choosing the right fit for your upcoming family vacation. Reserve an RV rental from Cruise America today to prepare for your road trip. Check out our rental locations across the United States to find the most convenient location. Need some trip inspiration ?

Check out our blog posts about the best road trip destinations to help plan your route!

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Road Trips Reign Supreme This Fall

The open road beckons with 27 million Americans planning to go RVing this fall and 7.3 million hitting the road over Labor Day weekend alone. The destination of choice for these RV travelers is the journey itself with 65% saying they are planning a road trip. 

"The allure of the open road and the freedom of RV travel continues to resonate with travelers of all ages," said RV Industry Association President & CEO Craig Kirby. “The fact that RVing has surpassed traditional rental properties for Labor Day weekend underscores the unique experiences and flexibility that RVing provides.”

Millennials and Gen Z are driving this surge in RV popularity. 33% of Millennial leisure travelers express a desire to take an RV trip in the coming year, with 32% even considering purchasing one. Gen Z isn't far behind, emerging as the most active travelers with keen interests in food tourism and music festivals. 

Key motivators for fall RVing among leisure travelers include escaping the daily grind (52%), enjoying destinations at their peak in the fall (48%), seeking less crowded experiences (47%), and embracing favorable weather (43%). The love of road trips, visiting family, exploring the outdoors, and traveling in comfort also resonates across all generations.

Millennials and Boomers favor fall RVing for the unique experiences the season offers, while Gen X seeks to escape the busyness of everyday life. Gen Z is drawn to the pleasant fall weather.

Tailgating remains a beloved fall tradition, with 3.5 million people planning to partake. RVing at festivals leads the tailgating scene (59%), closely followed by college football (58%), professional football (57%), and concerts (54%). While younger generations are more likely to tailgate overall, older generations maintain their enthusiasm for tailgating at high-level football games and concerts.

View the infographic

Commissioned by the RV Industry Association and conducted by Cairn Consulting, 1,707 surveys were completed by a statistically balanced cross section of U.S. leisure travelers. The survey results have an associated margin of error of +/- 2.74 percentage points. Leisure travelers are defined as any U.S. residents who has taken some type of leisure trip in the past 12 months.

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A family who roadtrips 4,000 miles a year shares the best hidden-gem destinations in the US

• Rob Taylor, a Florida-based road trip expert, has traveled to 48 states with his family.
• Taylor focuses on educational trips, visiting lesser-known destinations for unique experiences.
• He recommends stopping at under-the-radar destinations in Alaska, Utah, and on the East Coast.

International destinations can be awe-inspiring — but road trips around the states can feel just as unique, from New England to the coast of Alaska.

That's according to Florida-based road trip expert Rob Taylor , who has traveled to 48 states. Over the last 13 years, he and his husband, Chris, have driven their two kids to 30 states.

"The US is so large, and you can get such variation in experiences, activities, landscapes, cuisine, and culture from one corner of the country to another," he told Business Insider. "We're making our way. Eventually, we will hit all of them."

Regarding family road trips , Taylor seeks out lesser-known destinations where the kids can learn something new.

"So much of our travel specifically focuses on education and making sure that we're not just going to theme parks," he said. "We're actually out there doing programs with the rangers and educators."

Typically, Taylor takes the kids out of school three to four times a year for up to two weeks at a time. He added that the educational factor makes teachers more supportive of their travels during the school year.

"That's why we feel OK pulling them out of school as much as we do," Taylor said. "We've never had a complaint that we've missed too much school."

Taylor shared with BI his favorite hidden-gem road trip stops around the US for families — and some are in popular states you wouldn't expect.

Drive through a lesser-known part of Alaska.

Alaska may be a popular tourist destination, but as a former resident of the state, Taylor knows where to go to avoid the crowds .

"There's the whole scenic side of the state that people pass over because everybody drives on the Parks Highway that goes from Anchorage up to Fairbanks," he told BI. "On the other side, you can drive through the wilderness and experience the tundra. It's not a mainstream destination."

To get to this under-the-radar stop from Anchorage, Taylor said to drive towards Palmer.

"You'll pass several state parks before crossing over the beautiful, albeit rough road, called Hatcher Pass," he said. "This will add time and connect you back to the main Parks Highway, but it's well worth the detour."

Taylor added that he's taken the family on multiple hikes in the bird watching, moose watching, and a mining tour in the area.

Avoid crowds on the eastern side of Glacier National Park.

" Glacier National Park is definitely not a lesser-known place, but so many people approach it just from one side," Taylor said of the mountainous park in Montana. "A lot of people just overlook that whole other half of this national park ."

In Taylor's experience, tourists crowd the park's west side.

"But the east side of Glacier National Park, where it meets the Blackfoot Nation, is really incredible," he said, referring to the Native American reservation also known as Blackfeet Nation . "It has far fewer people than the west side. It's one of those spots where you can still have a detached-from-the-rest-of-the-world experience."

In Utah, swap out Zion National Park for Canyon Lands...

Utah may not be the first place you think of as a hidden gem — but it can be.

"With Utah having so much public land , it's a great place to get away from people," Taylor said. "So many people think of going to Zion National Park , but there are other parks in Utah that are just as incredible."

Canyonlands National Park , for example, is less frequented than Zion, he said.

"It's very red and orange and gold, and the land is a lot of canyons and washouts," he said.

... or Capitol Reef National Park.

" Capitol Reef is not crowded at all," Taylor told BI of this national park in Utah's south-central desert region . "And it is astounding with the landscape and tons of history within the park in terms of western settlement."

Aside from having fewer tourists than Zion National Park, Taylor said Capitol Reef will "give you a totally different spin on Utah."

"There are really large monoliths of sandstone in the middle of mountain ranges that are dark gray and flaming red," he said. "There are contrasts of hot and cold colors everywhere with really dramatic landscape features, like natural bridges that form because of really intense erosion."

Taylor recommends Capitol Reef for families who want to "geek out on geology."

"If you're traveling with kids, it's one of those spots where there's literally science around every corner," he said.

On the East Coast, take the less-traveled route through South Carolina and stop in Columbia.

Taylor said the East Coast is full of historic cities, and Columbia, South Carolina , is a hidden gem off the major highway.

"Columbia is not on the 95," he said, referring to the interstate that connects Florida to Maine, "but it's not difficult to veer off that north-to-south route that everybody ends up driving here on the East Coast."

"Columbia has lots of wonderful history in terms of civil rights and civil war reconstruction history," he added.

Taylor also recommends visiting Conagree National Park, just outside the city.

"It's an incredible Cypress swamp full of snakes and alligators and birds and fireflies," he said. "It's beautiful, it's creepy, and it's squishy. It's a unique park visit with kids."

Instead of visiting the coast of Maine, go to the highlands.

" Maine is one of those places that surprises me with each visit," Taylor told Business Insider. "A lot of people think of Maine as a place to see lighthouses and maybe eat some lobster, but the Maine Highlands are really cool."

The highlands are in the middle of Maine and attract fewer tourists than coastal destinations, according to a 2023 economics report by Maine's Department of Administrative and Financial Services .

"It's really a wonderful place for wildlife, and you get to see what the northeast was like before all the cities were booming," Taylor said.

Now that you know where to go, check out Taylor's best tips for family road trips in his book, "The Road Trip Survival Guide."

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