best car for road trips india

Best Cars for Long Distance Driving in India

It’s true that flights and train are still popular options for long distance travel in India. But with the pandemic highlighting the importance of personal transportation, a lot of people now prefer to go road-tripping in their cars instead. This not only allows them to reduce their exposure to the outside world, but it also allows for meaningful time with friends and family.

Now road-tripping can be fun, but you do need the right car to make it work. This means you need a vehicle that is safe, comfortable, convenient, durable, and lastly, one that doesn’t cost much to run and maintain. With these factors in mind, we have picked the 15 best cars for long distance driving in India, all south of Rs 20 lakh (ex-showroom prices). To make things easier, we have split the list of best car for long distance driving into hatchbacks, sedans and SUVS, so you can pick according to the body style of your preference.

Also Read – Sedan Cars In India

Table of Contents

List of cars for long distance driving, maruti baleno (2022), hyundai i20 (2020), tata altroz (2020), maruti ciaz (2018), honda city e:hev (2022), hyundai verna (2020), maruti ertiga (2022), kia carens (2022), toyota innova crysta (2020), tata nexon (2020), skoda kushaq (2021), volkswagen taigun (2021), hyundai creta, tata harrier (2020), mahindra xuv700 (2021), faqs about long distance driving, best cars for long distance driving: hatchbacks.

The Maruti Baleno is a petrol-only model, so that might deter some people from going after it. However, it is quite fuel efficient and going by its ARAI claimed efficiency of 22.35 km/l for the manual and 22.94 km/l for the automatic, and you can easily eke out 20km/l with a steady foot in the real world, irrespective of the transmission you choose. It’s also got comfortable seats for four people and a large-enough boot to take in all their luggage for a three-to-four-day trip – making it one of the best cars for long distance driving in India. The Baleno, being a Maruti, is also durable and affordable to run and maintain, but as far as safety rating goes, the new Baleno is yet to be tested by the Global NCAP. Nevertheless, it packs in ABS with EBD, dual front airbags, front seat belts with pre-tensioner and ISOFIX mounting points in all its variants. The higher variants add side and curtain airbags, and ESP with hill hold on the automatic variants as well. Overall, refinement, convenience, and low running-costs are the biggest advantages of picking the Baleno.

Also Read – Manual vs Automatic Transmission

When it comes to powertrain options, the Hyundai i20 is like a buffet. You have two petrol engines to choose from (one is naturally aspirated while the other is turbocharged), and you get the option of either a manual, or an automatic with both of them. Among the i20’s petrol and diesel engines, the diesel is the winner as far as fuel efficiency goes: it is a true mile-muncher, making it on of the best cars for long distance driving in India. Now, the diesel is only available with a manual transmission, but the silver lining here is that it’s a very easy manual to drive. The clutch action is light and the gear shifts slot in smoothly. The i20 is also a feature-rich offering, and vows to keep the most enthusiastic technophiles hooked with its list of premium features. In the Global NCAP crash test, it secured a 3-star safety rating. In terms of safety kit, you get the protection of six airbags on the top variants, along with ESC and hill-hold, and ISOFIX mounting points. The i20 is overall a good option if you are looking for performance, refinement and an extensive feature list.

Also Read – Petrol vs Diesel Mileage

Homegrown carmaker Tata Motors also makes a case for itself in the hatchback segment, with its premium hatchback Altroz. It’s offered with regular petrol and diesel engines, and a turbo-petrol engine as well. All three can be had with a manual transmission, but if you want an automatic, then you will be limited to the regular petrol motor. In all fairness, the Baleno is ahead of the Altroz in terms of refinement, and the i20 does deliver more outright power. It, however, claws back a lot of ground with its stellar 5-star safety rating conferred upon it by Global NCAP. The Altroz packs in dual airbags and ISOFIX mounting points as well. The cabin experience of the Altroz is also superb as you get loads of overall space and the seats are supportive and angled quite well. Overall, you should consider the Altroz if safety is number one on your list of priorities along with a roomy cabin.

Also Read – Premium Hatchback Cars In India

Best Cars for Long Distance Driving: Sedans

Next in our list of best cars for long distance driving in India in the Maruti Ciaz. Keeping its competition in mind, the Ciaz has been around for a while. The design may seem familiar, you get one engine option, and in terms of features, its rivals do offer more. But, that’s where the downsides end. It’s a comfortable car to drive, there is loads and loads of cabin space (the rear cabin space is humongous), a 510-litre boot allows you to take in quite a bit of luggage, and the 1.5-litre petrol engine might be the solitary offering, but it’s super-refined and likes to rev its guts out. The manual too is very easy to drive and it is the better pick for those who like to have a little bit of fun. The Ciaz automatic could go to those who like a calmer driving experience. The best bit? Both powertrains have an ARAI rated efficiency of over 20km/l, which means the fuel bills won’t start stacking up either!

The Honda City e:HEV is the new kid on the block, but still makes it to the list of best cars for long distance driving in India for a different reason. We have put it on the list because it is a hybrid, and an excellent one at that. It has a 40-litre petrol tank and if you pair that with its 26.5km/l efficiency (claimed by ARAI), you have a whopping range of 1060kms. Safety too has been covered rather generously, as you get six airbags, ISOFIX mounting points, hill-hold, an electronic parking brake, TPMS, and even ADAS features. The City’s refinement levels are also top notch, although your choice is limited to a single variant, and a single powertrain (automatic only as it’s a hybrid). Where the City e:HEV loses out is on boot space. It is limited to 306 litres due to the Li-ion battery pack for the hybrid system protruding into the boot, so keep in mind that you won’t be able to pack too generously, if you pick the City e:HEV. 

The Verna, like the Ciaz, has enjoyed a long run on Indian roads. Its design has stayed unaltered, and its cabin space isn’t too generous, especially in the back seat. But being a Hyundai, the Verna is stuffed with features, there are a multitude of powertrain options all of which are decent to drive, if not extraordinary. Out of the three engine options (one naturally-aspirated petrol, one diesel and one turbo-petrol), you get both automatic and manual options with the first two, but only an automatic with the turbo-petrol. The fuel efficiency of the diesel is also highly rated (25km/l for the manual and 21.3km/l for the manual). You also get six airbags on the top two variants of the sedan. At 480 litres, the Verna’s boot space may seem low on paper, but the gap is marginal in the real world. The car’s NCAP scores aren’t as good as the newer cars’ but overall Verna is a loaded and refined package, no matter which variant and powertrain you pick. A worthy entrant in the list of best cars for long distance driving in India, we think.

Best Cars for Long Distance Driving: MPVs

When it comes to taking everyone in, there are few cars in our price range that do it better than the Ertiga. An obvious choice among the best cars for long distance driving in India, Ertiga has all three rows offering adequate space, and you even get a separate A/C unit for the rear passengers, meaning that the rear half of the cabins stays as cool as the front. The last row also gets its own cupholders. When it comes to features, the Ertiga is moderately loaded, as it gets everything you would require on your drive. However, being pampered lavishly is another thing. For engines you get a petrol motor, with the option of a manual or an automatic. The Ertiga however also gets a CNG variant, and while the tank does eat into your boot space, it makes up with its 26.11km/kg fuel efficiency figure (ARAI). That means that day road trips where you don’t really need to haul in a lot of luggage will prove to be the Ertiga’s forte. As far as safety goes, the Ertiga scored a 3-star safety rating in a crash test conducted by Global NCAP back in 2019. The Ertiga has received a facelift since then, but structurally, it’s the same vehicle. You get dual airbags standard on all variants, and front side airbags on the top variant. There is ESP with hill hold as well, and ISOFIX mounting points too. Overall, the Ertiga is a value-for-money offering.

Also Read : Best 7 Seater MUV Cars in India 2022

An impromptu road trip often means impromptu additions to the passenger list, and it is moments like these that the Carens really helps out. It’s a six- or seven-seater depending on the configuration you pick, and a genuine one at that. The last-row experience is not business-class like, but compared to everything also on the market, you have a lot of space and don’t feel claustrophobic because of the huge glass area. The features list is also impressive, and you get multiple engine and transmission options as well. It’s well-tuned for all kinds of terrain and the engine is quite efficient as well. Now obviously, with all rows of seating up, you won’t have a lot of luggage space left, but with the third-row down, the Carens has the ability to swallow a lot of luggage. Kia also offers six airbags (among other safety features) as standard on all variants of the Carens, but the 3-star safety is not the best in its price bracket.

The Innova Crysta is the quintessential people-carrier of India, and rightly so. Seeing Innovas with over 5 lakh kilometres on the odometer is a common sight. It offers a proper “captain-seat” experience in its 7-seater avatar, but an 8-seat version is available as well. This is keeping in mind that the third row can take in three passengers, but honestly, unless these are all small kids, you are better off packing a maximum of two adults in there. You have the option of a diesel engine, and a petrol as well, and both can be had with manual or automatic transmissions. Feature-wise, the Innova Crysta has started facing stiff competition all these years, with cars with way more features available for a lot less these days. But, the Innova Crysta more than makes up for it with its comfortable seating, relatively large boot (with the third row seats down), and bulletproof reliability. On top of it, Toyota’s service costs are bare minimum and it doesn’t take a lot to keep the Innova Crysta running beautifully for years. On the safety front, the Innova packs in three airbags on the lower variants and seven on the higher variants. It also gets Vehicle Stability Management and hill-start assist.

PS: The Innova Crysta hits our upper-limit when it comes to the price tag, but its lower variants are priced under Rs 20 lakh.

Best Cars for Long Distance Driving: SUVs

There are times the Tata Nexon has been the most sold car in India for a particular month, and that should tell you all you need to know about the popularity of this sub-4 metre SUV. You have petrol and diesel engine options (both powerful ones) and they get manual and automatic transmission options. So the Nexon does offer a lot of versatility in this department. And while its powertrains don’t offer the most refined experience, the Nexon more than makes it up with a roomy cabin, a wide cushy backseat that can easily take in three, loads of features, a plush ride quality, and most importantly, an unbeatable five-star safety rating from Global NCAP. On the safety front, Tata offers most of the safety features right from the base variant. They include dual front airbags, ESP with hill-hold, ISOFIX mounting points and even roll-over mitigation.

Think you’re a spirited driver? Then this one’s for you. Skoda is known to make cars that appeal to enthusiasts, and the Kushaq is no exception. Like previous Skodas, the Kushaq boasts of solid build quality and safety features such as ESP and hill-hold to compliment. Then there are the six airbags. The highlight of the entire package are the engines – you get two. Both are turbocharged, both are petrol, and both can be had with manual and automatic transmissions. But if power is what you seek, then the larger 1.5-litre motor with the fabled DSG transmission may appeal to you better. Space-wise, the Kushaq may feel like a four-seater. That’s not to say you can’t seat five. In the Kushaq, the seats for the four outer passengers are sculpted, which makes them comfortable on long journeys, but that means packing in five may just be a slight squeeze. The boot space is a step back, but the Kushaq is also down in size compared to its rivals, so it makes up for it with its compact footprint in tight spaces.

The Volkswagen Taigun is a different version of the Kushaq. Underneath, it has all the same (good) bits such as the chassis, engines and gearboxes, and in terms of space and safety, it is similar as well. Where the Taigun differs is in its interior and exterior design, and on that front, it has a more understated personality than its sibling, the Kushaq. It’s bound to appeal to you if you prefer a more classic design, instead of the more sharp-edged funky ones that seem to be trending in the car world.

The Creta is widely loved by Indians. It, basically, popularised the midsize SUV space, and in its latest iteration, it’s evolved into one of the most all-rounded cars in the market. The design of it can be a bit polarising, but take into account that you have three engine and five transmission options, a feature-list that runs for pages (we love that huge panoramic sunroof), a 433-litre boot (the boot space of SUVs is generally less than similarly priced sedans) and a super-comfortable cabin, and you can now understand why we had to put the Creta on the list. In terms of safety, it packs in a lot of features but in its crash-test rating, the Creta could only muster a 3-star rating. Its fuel efficiency numbers are also not the best, but that has to be expected given that it is a bigger car, meaning that the engine has to lug around more weight. The Creta, then, is a very well-rounded package and will definitely impress all members of the family in one aspect or the other.

If a 5-star safety rating is the first filter you apply when picking a car, then the Tata Harrier should be on your short list. Tata has built an inherent knack of making 5-star rated cars, and that has also pushed other carmakers to strive for better safety ratings. The Harrier also has cabin space, boot space (425 litres of space to be precise but as it is a square boot, you can make the most of it), and a punchy diesel engine on offer. You do not have a petrol option, but with the Harrier being a big SUV, most people won’t miss it. Some may not like the sound of the engine at higher rpms, but you have the option to choose between a manual and an automatic. A special mention for the automatic here – it’s a well-tuned unit and is quite instinctive in shifting gears. The Harrier also packs in a lot of features, and might we say, that panoramic sunroof can turn the night sky into a majestic view. Tata also offers quite few special edition models, so you have the option for a more customized look.

PS: The top variants of the Harrier are priced beyond the Rs 20 lakh mark, but you can get one that has a decent number of features for less than that. 

The XUV700 won the ICOTY (Indian Car of the Year) award last year, so it’s safe to say it deserves to be on the list. It’s got a lot going for it. Its looks are the hottest thing on the market, it’s available in both five- and seven-seater configurations, there are powerful petrol and diesel engines on offer, there’s manual as well as automatic transmission to choose from, the cabin feels luxurious, and it’s packed with features. Safety kit is pretty robust, and you get an ADAS system as well. Additionally, it has a five-star safety rating from Global NCAP. The boot space in the five-seater version will fulfill all your road trip needs, and with the seven-seater version, you can just pull the third-row seats down. That’s quite a lot, but that’s not to say that the XUV700 doesn’t have its downsides. The petrol engine can be thirsty, impacting its fuel efficiency numbers. The diesel is relatively better, but as the XUV700 is a big car, you will have to make more room for fuel in your budget. And lastly, the XUV700 commands a long waiting period, so if you book one now, chances are you won’t be road-tripping anytime soon. But if a used XUV700 is what you’re looking for, then you can go ahead and check out our listings in your city right here .

PS: The XUV700 also goes beyond the Rs 20 lakh mark. The most notable feature you get post Rs 20 lakh is the ADAS system in the top trim, and AWD.

What factors should you consider while buying a car for long distance driving?

The most important factors when looking to buy a car for long distance driving are space, fuel efficiency, reliability and safety.

Why is safety important for long distance travelling?

Long distance driving generally means you will be travelling at higher than city speeds, and therefore safety should be an important aspect for long distance travelling.

Why is durability important for long distance travelling?

Long distance travelling could take you places where service centres are few and far in between, and therefore, reliability is important in such situations.

2 thoughts on “Best Cars for Long Distance Driving in India”

What about Honda Amaze

The Honda Amaze is very similar to the Honda Jazz, so you can expect similar mileage from the car.

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14 Best Cars For Long Drives

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Best Indian cars for long drives: check top options

Long drives offer a perfect escape from a busy lifestyle. But you need a suitable car to ensure an excellent driving experience and comfort during long-distance journeys.

There are multiple characteristics you should evaluate to figure out which car is best for long drives. A car for long drives should be spacious enough, offer reasonable power, comfortable seats and provide good boot space. Fuel efficiency is also important to keep your long journeys easy on the wallet. 

Keeping all that in mind, we have created a list of the best Indian cars for long drives for you.

Best Cars for Long Drive in India

Read on to find about the best car for long-distance driving in detail.

Here is a list of the best cars for long drives you can buy in India.

Volkswagen Polo

Price: Rs. 6.27 lakhs - Rs. 9.99 lakhs

Volkswagen Polo is a 5-seater hatchback that gets a connectivity suite to track your trip, fuel cost, driver behaviour monitoring, etc. The cabin and boot are spacious enough for five passengers and their luggage. The vehicle is available with 1-litre Multi-point Injection (MPI) petrol engine and 1-litre Turbo Stratified Injection (TSI) engine that come mated to a 6-speed manual transmission or torque converter automatic gearbox options.

Specifications

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Price: Rs. 7.65 lakhs - Rs. 9.89 lakhs

Honda Jazz is an easy-to-drive hatchback, especially when you drive the automatic variant. The vehicle gets a user-friendly, spacious cabin, making it one of the best cars for long road trips. The power comes from a 1.2-litre petrol engine, which you can have with a 5-speed manual or a 7-speed Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) option.

Skoda Rapid

Price: Rs. 7.79 lakhs - Rs. 13.29 lakhs

Skoda Rapid is a classy-looking sedan that impresses with its easy handling and peppy engine performance. For passengers, it offers a well-finished interior with spacious rear seats. You can have it with the 1-litre petrol engine mated to a 6-speed manual or torque converter automatic transmission. 

Maruti Ciaz

Price: Rs. 8.72 lakhs - Rs. 11.71 lakhs

Maruti Ciaz is a spacious 5-seater sedan perfect for family road trips. The mild-hybrid technology keeps the petrol consumption under control, which helps to maintain a good fuel economy. The Ciaz gets a 1-5-litre petrol engine mated to a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. 

Price: Rs. 11.16 lakhs - Rs. 15.11 lakhs

Honda City is a fun-to-drive sedan due to the 7-speed CVT transmission option you get with a 1.5-litre petrol engine. The cabin has been designed to offer a good knee room for passengers in this 5-seater car. Apart from a petrol engine, you can have this vehicle with a 1.5-litre diesel engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. 

Best mileage cars for long drives 

Mileage is one of the significant factors when selecting the best car for travelling long distances. Thus, below is a list of mileage car options you can choose from for long drives. 

Renault Kwid 

Price: Rs. 4.06 lakhs - Rs. 5.59 lakhs

Renault Kwid is one of the most fuel-efficient budget cars you can buy. Even though the price is lower than many other hatchbacks, the Kwid offers impressive ride quality and comfort with features like voice recognition, a reverse parking camera, and an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen. The engine options include 0.8-litre petrol and 1-litre petrol units with a 5-speed manual and Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) options. 

Price: Rs. 4.99 lakhs - Rs. 7.04 lakhs

Tata Tiago is another hatchback you can choose for its fuel economy, build quality, and safety. The 4-star safety rating from Global NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme) speaks about its build quality. The car is powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine, which comes mated to a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AMT transmission. 

Hyundai Grand i10 Nios

Price: Rs. 5.28 lakhs - Rs. 8.50 lakhs

Hyundai Grand i10 Nios can deliver fuel efficiency between 21 kmpl to 26.2 kmpl depending on the variant and fuel type. It offers generous headroom and knee room for passengers in the rear seat. You can have this hatchback with a 1-litre petrol engine mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. However, there are 1.2-litre petrol and diesel engine options available as well with a 5-speed manual or AMT gearbox. 

Maruti Dzire

Price: Rs. 5.99 lakhs - Rs. 9.08 lakhs

The claimed fuel efficiency for Maruti Dzire is one of the highest in its segment. This sedan gets a 1.2-litre DualJet petrol engine mated to a 5-speed manual or AMT gearbox. Features such as cruise control, voice control, and automatic climate control make this car comfortable on long journeys.

Honda Amaze

Price: Rs. 6.32 lakhs - Rs. 11.14 lakhs

Honda Amaze is a compact sedan popular for its peppy engine performance and impressive fuel efficiency. The passengers experience a comfortable ride in the back seats due to ample headroom and knee room. You can have this car with a 1.2-litre petrol or a 1.5-litre diesel engine mated to a 5-speed manual or 5-speed CVT transmission .

Best SUVs for long-distance driving

Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) are admired for their spacious cabins, ride stability, and features that make road trips easier. Hence, SUVs are the best choice if you are looking for a comfortable driving experience on long journeys. 

To find the best comfortable car for long-distance driving, you can consider one of the following SUVs.

Hyundai Venue

Price: Rs. 6.99 lakhs - Rs. 11.85 lakhs

Hyundai Venue is considered one of the safest and feature-rich SUVs in India. It comes with one diesel and two petrol variants. Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) option is available with the 1-litre petrol engine. 

Maruti Vitara Brezza

Price: Rs. 7.61 lakhs - Rs. 11.19 lakhs

Driving Maruti Vitara Brezza is a fun and relaxing experience. The SUV is spacious enough for five passengers and offers enough boot space for luggage storage. The suspension is capable of isolating the cabin from the impact of potholes and bumps on the road. 

The car gets its power from a 1.5-litre petrol engine mated to a 5-speed manual transmission or a torque converter automatic gearbox. 

Mahindra XUV300

Price: Rs. 7.95 lakhs - Rs. 13.33 lakhs

Mahindra XUV300 is known for its stable driving experience in different road conditions. The SUV comes with 1.2-litre petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engine options mated to a 6-speed manual or AMT transmission.

Hyundai Creta

Price: Rs. 10.16 lakhs - Rs. 17.87 lakhs

Hyundai Creta is a compact SUV that offers a quiet and comfortable cabin for passengers. You get multiple variants based on engine and gearbox options. There are two petrol and one diesel engine options available. The petrol engines get 6-speed CVT and 7-speed DCT automatic transmission options. The diesel engine is available with a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox.

Best 7-seater cars for long journeys

Sometimes a 5-seater SUV doesn’t offer enough space for a family or group of friends on long journeys. That’s when you should look for 7-seater cars for long drives. Here are the 7-seater cars best-suited for long journeys.

Renault Triber

Price: Rs. 5.50 lakhs - Rs. 7.95 lakhs

Renault Triber is a Multi-utility Vehicle (MUV) with a 7-seater capacity, which you can convert into six, five, four, and even two-seater. The vehicle gets its power from a 1-litre petrol engine mated to a 5-speed manual or AMT transmission. 

Maruti Ertiga

Price: Rs. 7.96 lakhs - Rs. 10.69 lakhs

Maruti Ertiga is a comfortable Multi-purpose Vehicle (MPV) from Maruti Suzuki that lets you ride confidently over uneven roads or potholes. The cabin offers spacious seating and storage options. You can have the Ertiga with a 1.5-litre petrol engine mated to a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. 

Mahindra XUV500

Price: Rs. 14.22 lakhs - Rs. 20.07 lakhs

Mahindra XUV500 is a 7-seater SUV you can drive on highways and busy city roads as well. Though the car has limited boot space, it is considered suitable for long drives due to the spacious seating and ample knee room and headroom for passengers. The vehicle is powered by a 2.2-litre diesel engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission or torque converter automatic gearbox. 

Kia Carnival

Price: Rs. 24.95 lakhs - Rs. 33.99 lakhs

Kia Carnival is one of the most comfortable 7-seater MUVs. The car is quite spacious from the inside and offers various features such as VIP seats, dual sunroof, etc. The boot space is massive to carry a lot of luggage on your road trips. The vehicle runs on a 2.2-litre diesel engine mated to an 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission. 

Best luxury cars for long-distance driving

If you don’t mind the high cost, the luxury vehicle segment also has some exciting options of cars for long drives. 

Price: Rs. 76.50 lakhs - Rs. 80 lakhs

BMW X5 is a burly luxury SUV with on-road and off-road driving capabilities. The interior of this SUV gets dynamic lighting, climate control, and multifunction seats. The iDrive technology supports voice/gesture commands, a touchscreen panel and a customisable display. There are two petrol and two diesel engine options available with automatic transmission.

Land Rover Discovery

Price: Rs. 88.06 lakhs - Rs. 1.19 crores

The Land Rover Discovery gives you a perfect balance of luxury and practical elements suitable for long-distance cruising. The interior is comfortable, spacious and allows reconfiguration of seats to increase the storage area. This SUV is available in three petrol and one diesel engine option. All engine options come mated to torque converter automatic transmission.

Price: Rs. 1.91 crores - Rs. 2.22 crores

Lexus LS is a sedan as luxurious from the inside as it is from the outside. The cabin of the LS gets premium-quality leather upholstery and comfortable seating for four passengers. The vehicle gets a hybrid powertrain setup with a 3.5-litre petrol engine that runs in conjunction with 2 electric motors. The engine comes mated to a 10-speed CVT gearbox. 

Long drive precautions during a car journey

The following precautions will help you enjoy safe long car journeys.

Fill the fuel tank in advance and plan your fuel station stops

Manage your speed as per the road conditions, weather, and visibility

Stick to a stable speed on highways

Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles

Drive in your lane and give appropriate signals while overtaking

Make sure that your car is in the right gear before overtaking another vehicle

Use appropriate signals to inform other vehicles about your movements

Note: All the prices mentioned in this article are ex-showroom, Delhi and the fuel economy/mileage is as per the ARAI (Automotive Research Association of India).

Frequently asked questions

Below are some of the common questions answered to help you buy a car for long drives.

When looking for a car for long-distance driving, you may want to evaluate vehicles with respect to their cabin space, seating comfort, and luggage storage. At the same time, it would be helpful to ensure that the car offers decent ride quality and fuel efficiency to make long journeys convenient and budget-friendly. 

You can choose between the following budget-friendly cars for long drives:

Renault Kwid (Price: Rs. 4.06 lakhs - Rs. 5.59 lakhs)

Tata Tiago (Price: Rs. 4.99 lakhs - Rs. 7.04 lakhs)

Hyundai Grand i10 Nios (Price: Rs. 5.28 lakhs - Rs. 8.50 lakhs)

Renault Triber (Price: Rs. 5.50 lakhs - Rs. 7.95 lakhs)

Volkswagen Polo (Price: Rs. 6.27 lakhs - Rs. 9.99 lakhs)

If you are looking for a small car for long drives, the following choices may help:

Despite being small cars, these vehicles have impressive fuel efficiency, driveability and comfortable seating.

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The 9 most spectacular road trips in India

Dec 12, 2023 • 12 min read

From self-drive motorbike adventures to tips on hiring a car and driver, here are the best road trips in India © Solovyova / Getty Images

In India, every journey is an experience, whether you rumble across the subcontinent on a classic Enfield motorcycle or rattle through the hills in a chartered 4WD.

The simple act of traveling from A to B will immerse you in the sights , sounds and sensations of the world’s most colorful country. Plenty of people get around  by bus and train, but taking a road trip will give you extra control over your itinerary, letting you choose where to stop and which route to follow.

The good news is that you don’t need to drive yourself – it’s easy to hire a car or 4WD with a driver almost everywhere in India , meaning you can concentrate on the scenery while your driver deals with the sometimes challenging road conditions. 

If you prefer to take the driving seat, renting a motorcycle is a wonderful way to explore the subcontinent, particularly if you stick to the backroads. Self-drive car rental is harder to arrange, but some adventurous souls travel around India with their own vehicles – a few hardy travelers have even navigated India in a modified autorickshaw!

Grab your sense of adventure and get ready to hit the road with this guide to the best road trips in India. 

1. India’s Golden Triangle 

Best road trip for Mughal monuments Delhi–Delhi; 1120km (696 miles); allow five days

Short and sweet, the loop from  Delhi to  Agra and  Jaipur packs a lot of wonders into a few days of driving. Your adventure begins in Delhi, where the ruins of eight cities tell the story of India’s great Islamic empires. Hit  the city's highlights , including Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, the Jama Masjid and the bazaars of Chandni Chowk, which have changed only superficially since Mughal emperor Shah Jahan’s time.

With a chartered vehicle or rented motorcycle, it’s easy to swing by the sacred cities of Mathura and Vrindavan, where Krishna frolicked with milkmaids in the Hindu epics. After these peaceful stops, steel yourself for a mix of the stressful and sublime in Agra, where the glorious  Taj Mahal more than lives up to its reputation.

Find more Mughal magnificence at nearby  Fatehpur Sikri , the red sandstone city founded and later abandoned by emperor Akbar the Great. Once you follow the NH21 to Jaipur, you’ll share every fort, palace and mystical observatory with a crowd, so consider making the odd detour before you hit the Pink City’s palaces and bazaars. 

Detour: Before zooming west from Fatehpur Sikri to Jaipur, consider a detour south to  Gwalior , whose beautiful fort is less mobbed than other stops on this circuit. Before you complete the third side of the triangle, tack on one more detour to spot tigers stalking ruined battlements in  Ranthambhore National Park before diving back into urban life.

2. Manali to Ladakh across the Himalaya

Best road trip for silence and serenity Manali–Srinagar; 800km (497 miles); allow ten days

Many people follow the mountain circuit from  Manali to  Ladakh and on to  Kashmir in a chartered 4WD, but we strongly recommend traveling by rented Enfield Bullet motorcycle. This allows you the life-affirming thrill of pulling over by the roadside to find yourself alone in the silence of these high-altitude deserts in the rain shadow of the Himalayas.

From the hippie hill resort of Manali, it’s a two-day slog over the 3978m (13,051ft)  Rohtang La to  Leh , through a landscape plucked straight from the heyday of the Silk Road. There’s little vegetation and even less shade, and the cold and altitude will hit you like a sledgehammer. Recuperate with trips to Buddhist monasteries and yoga classes in Leh, then hit the road again for a different take on the Himalayas in Kashmir.

The highway west to  Srinagar weaves between ancient villages, but as the hills turn from dust-yellow to lush green, the culture shifts from Buddhism to Islam before the minarets of Srinagar loom into view. The Kashmir valley is sometimes troubled, but when it’s calm, the experience of watching  Dal Lake appearing slowly through the morning mist from the deck of a houseboat is simply sublime. 

Planning tip: Whether you drive yourself or let someone else take the wheel, it's imperative to respect the mountain climate. Snow closes the high passes into Ladakh in winter, and road travel is usually only possible from June to late September or early October.

3. Rajasthan’s colored cities 

Best road trip for desert colors Jaipur–Jaipur; 1630km (1012 miles); allow ten days

Desert driving in  Rajasthan is an incredible experience. Mighty fortresses loom dramatically out of the landscape, and you’ll share the dusty highways with camel carts and old-timers, some with vividly colored turbans and handsome mustaches. Kick-off in  Jaipur – the pink city – touring pink-sandstone palaces, bustling bazaars and the awe-inspiring fortress at  Amber .

Follow NH48 to the Jain and Muslim pilgrimage center of  Ajmer , and duck west to reach the famous  Pushkar , with its temple-circled lake and  legendary camel fair in October or November. Return to NH48 for the rumbling ride to  Udaipur , the white city – draped like a silk scarf on the shores of tranquil Lake Pichola. Dose up on ice-white palaces, then deviate west to the temple-strewn hill station of  Mt Abu . 

Veering north to  Jodhpur , you’ll immediately spot the lapis-colored buildings that earned the Blue City its name. Get another blast of military might at  Mehrangarh Fort , then drive west through serious desert country to the sand-yellow city of  Jaisalmer , whose fortified walls look almost carved from the desert itself. Close off the loop via  Bikaner , where you’ll leave the tourist crowds behind before diving back into the thick of things in Jaipur.

Detour: Having your own transport opens up the opportunity to get off the tourist track in this heavily visited state. Consider tacking on a side-trip north from Jaipur to Shekhawati, famed for its mural-filled haveli mansions. 

4. Hampi and the Hoysalas

Best road trip for temples Mysuru–Gokarna; 1060km (659 miles); allow ten days

For many travelers, visiting the time-tumbled ruins of the Vijayanagar kingdom at  Hampi is the  most memorable experience  during a trip to India. Start off in  Mysuru (formerly Mysore), with its mesmerizing markets, fiery vegetarian cuisine and famously extravagant  palace . Rumble north on the backroads to fascinating Sravanabelagola with its naked 17m (56ft) statue of  Gomateshvara , the first tirthankara  (spiritual teacher) of the Jain religion.

The temples just keep on coming in Karnataka. Slingshot through Hassan to Belur and Halebid, where the  temples of the Hoysala Empire represent perhaps the zenith of the Hindu temple-building art. A three-hour drive east will drop you in Karnataka’s capital,  Bengaluru , known for its cosmopolitan dining, shopping and nightlife. Enjoy its comforts; it’s a long drive to reach Hosapete, the leaping-off point for the ruins at Hampi.

Once you roll into Hampi’s centuries-old bazaar, allow at least two days to explore toppled temples and time travel across centuries in a landscape of stacked granite boulders. For more timeless temple architecture, duck onto the backroads to reach Badami, where blood-colored cliffs are pock-marked with  cave temples .

Detour: To mix things up, consider taking a side trip to Aihole, dotted with dusty ruins from the ancient Chalukya kingdom, then finish on the beach with some well-earned R&R in  Gokarna  – part pilgrim-town, part beach retreat. 

5. Kolkata to Darjeeling

Best road trip for Himalayan views and side treks Kolkata–Yuksom; 808km (502 miles); allow eight days

The east of India is often overlooked by the crowds who surge north from Delhi, but the journey through West Bengal to the foothills of 8586m (28,169ft) Mt Khangchendzonga has an epic sense of mission. Start in crowded but cultured  Kolkata , visiting ashrams, temples and striking civic buildings reclaimed from British rule. Fit in a tour of the tiger-stalked swamps of the  Sunderbans before you head for the hills. 

The journey north takes you past little-visited country towns to intriguing  Shantiniketan , a university town with a long history of dance, theater and poetry. From here, you’ll break north to reach the emerald-green tea plantations and delightfully dated grand hotels of  Darjeeling , where you’ll likely catch your first up-close views of the Himalayas.

To get intimate with the snow peaks, walk the Singalila Ridge trekking route or edge even closer to Mt Khangchendzonga by picking up a permit to enter lofty  Sikkim . A route through  Kalimpong ,  Gangtok and Pelling will reveal views that would make mountaineers itch for their ice axes. To cap it all off, you can get within touching distance of the snow on the trek to the Goecha La from Yuksom.

Planning tip: You’ll need a Restricted Areas Permit to enter Sikkim, but this is easily obtained in Kolkata, Siliguri or Darjeeling, or when crossing into Sikkim at Melli or Rangpo.

6. Mumbai to Goa 

Best road trip for beaches Mumbai–Palolem; 650km (404 miles); allow one week

Short journeys don’t mean scrimping on excitement in India. From brash and brilliant  Mumbai , pick up NH66 and head south, detouring down to the coast to explore fascinating forts such as  Murud-Janjira , a legacy of centuries of coastal conquest. Pull into the low-key seaside resorts at Ganpatipule and Malvan before you hit the busy beaches of  Goa . 

As you roll into northern Goa, swing by the famous market in  Anjuna and the fun-filled beach hubs at  Baga and Calangute . Head onward to  Panaji , Goa’s charming Portuguese-colonial capital, and the timeworn basilicas of  Old Goa .

The mood changes as you roll south to laid-back  Agonda , the center of Goa’s nascent surfing scene. It changes again as you head inland through green hills dotted with spice farms for a peek at thundering  Dudhsagar Falls , India’s second-highest cascade. Finish up on the sand-sprinkled shore at lovely  Palolem (making time for a bird-spotting  hike at the nearby  Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary ).  

7. A drive through the northeast

Best road trip for tribal encounters Guwahati–Guwahati; 1700km (1056 miles); allow two weeks

With a hired 4WD and a driver who can speak local languages, a fascinating journey through the varied cultures of the northeast states awaits. Start in  Guwahati , the under-explored capital of Assam, and follow the mighty Brahmaputra River northeast to  Kaziranga National Park for close encounters with one-horned Indian rhinos.

Next, aim your sights north towards  Arunachal Pradesh and the awesome  Buddhist monasteries of the Tawang Valley (local travel agencies can arrange a permit).

Add on a wander through the tribal communities of Ziro and Daporijo, and loop back through Upper Assam, continuing east to the fascinating Konyak Naga villages around Mon in northern  Nagaland . Slip back to the plains via Kohima (ideally in December to catch the  Hornbill Festival ), then climb up onto the high plateau of  Meghalaya , where trees are woven into living bridges and markets sell bows and arrows as day-to-day essentials, before barrelling downhill from  Shillong to Guwahati.

Planning tip: A Protected Area Permit is required to enter Arunachal Pradesh, and you may need to be in a group of two or more to visit some areas; contact travel agencies in Guwahati in advance to get the paperwork in place.

8. Around the tip of India

Best road trip in the south Kochi–Kochi; 807km (501 miles); allow 7 days

The bottom end of India feels like a different country. Start the journey through India’s steamy south in historic  Kochi , whose ancient streets tell a timeless tale of seafaring, trade and Keralan spices. As you roam south to  Alappuzha , park up for a day or two to explore the fascinating, waterlogged backwaters by boat.

As you pass through Amrithapuri, you can pause for a hug from a living guru before soaking up some rays on  Kerala ’s loveliest beaches at  Varkala . Next, whoosh through  Thiruvananthapuram (pause just long enough for some incendiary Keralan curries) to the southern tip of India. From here, you’ll head inland, through drier, rockier Tamil Nadu, to reach  Madurai , whose temple towers are encrusted with brightly colored deities and demons.

The trip back to Kochi will take you through the Palani Hills, a side spur of the Western Ghats, where the landscape surges upwards to  Kodaikanal , perhaps the most charming of India’s southern hill stations. Grab a cuppa amidst swirling tea plantations in  Munnar , South India’s top tea-growing center, before you return to the coast. 

Planning tip: The monsoon obscures the views from the Western Ghats from June to September, but waterfalls run at full force, so this is still a rewarding time to come.

9. Chennai to Puducherry (Pondicherry)

Best road trip for cultural variety Chennai–Puducherry; 232km (144 miles); allow 3 to 4 days

For a short, sweet and spicy trip along India’s southeast coast, consider the three-day trip from  Chennai south to  Puducherry (Pondicherry) . Start in Chennai, with its vast beach, famous-name ashrams and  delicious vegetarian cuisine , then track south along the coast, wedged between the sea and the salt lake.

Stop one is the surprising surf resort at Kovalam (Covelong), a worthy stop en route to  Mamallapuram , where you can view a riot of carvings and temples created by the Pallava dynasty. Duck inland to see the ancient Pallava capital at  Kanchipuram , then return to the coast to close out the trip at charming Puducherry, formerly Pondicherry.

A Gallic air pervades this seaside town – best experienced in heritage hotels in the old French Quarter. Just be warned: some spiritually-minded travelers pull into the famous ashram at  Auroville just north of "Pondy" and never leave! 

Top tips for hiring a car and driver in India

You’ll find drivers-for-hire offering their services at taxi and 4WD stands all over India, or you can make arrangements through hotels and travel agencies. Check that the driver speaks enough English to understand where you want to go and where you want to stop, and confirm that the driver is able to cross state lines – some vehicles are only licensed to operate in certain areas. 

You’ll need to agree on a price for the trip before you start, and the cost should include fuel, accommodation and food for the driver for multi-day trips. Prices start at around US$40 per day, rising for 4WD vehicles. Be clear with your driver about what you want from your journey; if you want to avoid stops at tourist shops and commission-paying venues, make this clear from the outset.

Exploring India by motorcycle or bike is for experienced riders

India’s roads are not for fair-weather motorcyclists, but if you have a few miles under your belt and fancy a challenge, it’s a fabulous way to explore this enormous country. Veteran hire companies such as  Lalli Singh Tours in  Delhi have sent hundreds of travelers off on journeys across India, from the steamy southern jungles to the high passes of the Himalayas.  

The best advice we can give is to ride slowly and defensively, always give way to larger vehicles, and carry a full repair kit and spares – and know how to use them! The nostalgic British-designed Enfield Bullet is the vehicle of choice for many travelers, but it’s a heavy brute; newer machines from the likes of Bajaj are lighter and easier to handle.

If you plan to pedal your way around India by bicycle, carry plenty of puncture repair kits and bring lights and high visibility gear. If you don’t want to transport your own bike into the country, consider flying into Delhi and buying a bike at the Jhandewalan Cycle Market.

This article was first published Apr 7, 2022 and updated Dec 12, 2023.

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• Latest Reviews
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• Best Cars For A Road Trip

By car&bike Team

1 mins read

Published on June 18, 2022

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You don't want to embark on a road journey with a car that will give you hassles every time you encounter an obstacle. Imagine stopping the car in the middle of the journey only to realize your car needs some fixing or upgrade to continue. Besides, having a reliable and good vehicle is as essential as having good company on a road trip.

Your passion for driving, excellent buddies, dreamy destination, and a sturdy car are all you need to make unforgettable memories on road trips. The perfect car is the key to a fabulous journey!

So let's check out which cars can be your trusted travel companion!

Mahindra XUV700

Mahindra XUV700 is one of the sturdiest vehicles in the Indian auto market and users have testified to the driving pleasure they derive from this vehicle. This 5 and 7 seater model offers ample cabin space with premium finish and decent boot size that is perfect for lugging your suitcases and more family members.

This diesel-based vehicle also comes with a 5-star safety rating. The higher variants also offer adaptive cruise control. It also accrues a good mileage of 17.3 kmpl. Most XUV700 owners claim that it is perfect for long-distance journeys and highway driving, especially the automatic versions!

Honda Amaze

Next on our list is the Honda Amaze. The long-distance performance of this car is unforgivable. Ample leg room and sleek body make it perfect for long journeys. Honda Amaze can comfortably accommodate five passengers, more than most sedans on the market. Moreover, its 24.7 kmpl mileage is perfect for savings on fuel. All in all, it is the ultimate pick for a road trip enthusiast.

Ford EcoSport

The Ford EcoSport exudes sportiness and sturdiness in its very name and aesthetics. The car runs as smooth as butter. The EcoSport has the perfect dimensions and poses no problem while manoeuvring. This 5-seater SUV comes in both diesel and petrol engine options. To top it all, EcoSport also boasts a 200mm clearance space. Sure, Ford is no longer selling cars in India, but you can pick up a good Ecosport from the pre-owned market and still have a good, fuss-free ownership.

Maruti Ertiga

You can't possibly go wrong with the Ertiga. This multi-purpose vehicle offers reliable performance on city streets and highway roads. Its mini-van like build is ideal for families who are fond of a road trips. The spacious interiors will seat five members and their luggage comfortably.

Hyundai Creta

This sport utility vehicle is one of our favourites. Wondering why? Firstly, its rugged and well-built structure can handle all the challenges you throw. Secondly, it offers a convenient drive even on the most challenging terrains and roads. In a nutshell, it ticks all the boxes of being the perfect road expedition companion!

If these cars don't scream road trips, we are not sure any other model will. Without further thoughts, get your hands on one of these cars and set out for an unforgettable journey!

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Indian Road Trips: Top 10 Cars That You Would Like to Drive on a Road Trip in India

The pits, dusts, and paves seem to be friendly rather than bumpy on an Indian road trip when you are driving one of the best cars, your soul mate, which is suitable for Indian roads. Purring the minds of every perfervid traveller who is fond of road trips in India… whether it is an adventure journey from Manali to Leh or a leisure trip from Chennai to Puducherry , these cars are surely going to drift you miles, miles and miles from spick-and-span freeways to countryside corduroy and drop you in a fantasy world where the drive seems to be a pleasant affair. It’s one of those accelerated kinky instances where each time you pull the brake against a pit, your seat becomes a spongy bed that rock you spasmodically to and fro with the damper underneath. The moment you give the gear a blow to four; the road then becomes a ballroom… where steering the wheels makes you feel like you are passionately swinging in rhythm with your soul mate. As you cut through that last tempting curve, the sensational rush increases all the more… yes the destination is reached… alas, the intimate drive will come to an end. The rear view mirror reflects the drops of candid moments that you had with your soul mate. So don’t MINGLE… be in a steady affair and pick your soul mate from the list of top 10 cars/vehicles that you would like to drive on a road trip in India.

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Mahindra Thar

When you decide to head towards the offbeat destinations in the Indian Himalayan region, Mahindra Thar gives you the opportunity to get intimate with the unsmooth landscape. This stalwart of a vehicle is a reprise of the early days of open jeeping that can combat sheer descent and ascent of rock in Lahaul-Spiti district in Himachal Pradesh , Zanskar region in Jammu & Kashmir, parts of Garhwal region, and parts of Arunachal Pradesh. Hold your accelerator… this vehicle can also traverse the shallow streams that meander through valleys And can even zip through the wildlife zone and Thar Desert. A swore stud for an adventure freak traveller… with a virile body, advanced diesel engine, and 4×4 wheel drive… the Mahindra Thar is available in three variants – DI 2WD, DI 4WD and CRDe.

Suggested road trips:

• Delhi to Leh via Manali
• Chandigarh to Dalhousie
• Guwahati to Tawang
• Bangalore to Ooty
• Ahmedabad to Kutch
• Bangalore to Coorg
• Bangalore to Munnar

Price starts from: 4.82 Lakhs (Appx.)

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Mahindra Scorpio

Drive it wheresoever you go… whether into the wild Or rugged terrains… the Mahindra Scorpio is a darling for every traveller as it can adjust its mood to any altitude, climate, and topography. It is rightly called a playboy as well as a thunder down the road who will give you the best memories on a road trip in India. A traveller driving the Mahindra Scorpio is surely a pleasure seeker who would like to exploit the road from Mumbai to Pune via Khandala and Lonavla AND strip the verdure of Kashmir valley. The Mahindra Scorpio comes with three variants – 2.1L Petrol I4 116 hp, 2.6L Turbodiesel I4 115 hp, and 2.2L M-Hawk Turbodiesel I4 120 hp, and is available in 7 different models.

• Kolkata to Darjeeling
• Kolkata to Lake Tsomgo and Nathu-La Pass via Gangtok
• Guwahati to Shillong

Price starts from: 8.40 Lakhs (Appx.)

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Mahindra Bolero

A concrete on wheels… it is specifically built for some exclusive travellers who prefers to hit the off-roads anytime or at any season. The Mahindra Bolero isn’t just any SUV that you know but it’s a beast on road that bestows a privilege upon a countryside drive. Its masculine exteriors and comfortable interiors including an advanced digital display simply woo the mind of the travellers. This beast comes with one engine and 16 different versions.

• Delhi to Hunder via Manali, Leh and Diskit
• Vizag to Araku Valley

Price starts from: 5.90 Lakhs

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Tata Safari Storme

A sought after monster that to be esteemed, feared, and tamed… the Tata Safari Storme is considered as a true explorer that can snake through the mountains as well as cut across jungles. This monster is available in 4 versions with 1 engine and 1 transmission and 1 fuel options.

Price starts from: 9.94 Lakhs

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Mitsubishi Outlander

And when you think of a lascivious and suave journey on road… this gentleman brings forth a candid experience even through the most undesirable roads. As swift as a hawk on road, the Mitsubishi Outlander is a mid-size crossover that has been upgraded into a plug-in hybrid model called Outlander P-HEV that comes with 7 engines and 3 transmissions. He is a picky traveller who would like to zoom around in this hawk through different terrain ranging from the Great Rann of Kutch in Gujarat to the rocky Ladakh region .

Price starts from: 21 Lakhs (Appx.)

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BMW Mini Paceman

This cute little baby is as swift on road as it is easy to steer, gear and brake. The BMW Mini Paceman is a subcompact crossover or SUV that can reach the greatest distance in space or time… cutting through off-ramps, paves, shallow streams, and mountains. The model is based on the Mini Countryman and is found in different variants with 4 engines, 2 transmissions, and upgraded dimensions.

• Delhi to Corbett National Park
• Delhi to Ranthambore National Park
• Delhi to Kanha National Park
• Delhi to Dharamshala
• Kolkata to Jaldapara National Park
• Kolkata to Gorumara National Park
• Siliguri to Kaziranaga National Park
• Siliguri to Shillong
• Mumbai to Goa via Khandala, Lonavla and Pune
• Mumbai to Ajanta and Ellora via Aurangabad
• Bangalore to Bandipur National Park via Mysore
• Bangalore to Coorg via Mysore
• Chennai to Alleppey
• Hyderabad to Maredumalli and Rampachodavaram
• Hyderabad to Horsley Hills and Talakona

Price starts from: 30 Lakhs (Appx.)

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Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Roadster

She is smooth, sonant, and steamy and that’s why Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Roadster is a dearie amongst all travellers on road. Whether you head uphill or downhill, sway her on freeways, and whirl her on a beach… she will give you the utmost comfort if you are modest. The Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Roadster… although a rare babe on rowdy Indian roads BUT once she hits the road, she is likely to TURN ON every passerby. On the other hand she is a beguiler who comes in different colours ranging from bright yellow tang to marron black… having unprecedented performance levels powered by world-class engineering.

• Delhi to Udaipur via Jaipur
• Delhi to Chandigarh via Karnal
• Delhi to Kolkata via Allahabad and Varanasi
• Kolkata to Guwahati via Siliguri
• Mumbai to Goa via Pune
• Bangalore to Pondicherry
• Jaipur to Jaisalmer
• Delhi to Ahmedabad via Jaipur and Udaipur
• Ahmedabad to Mumbai via Surat
• Hyderabad to Vizag

Price Starts from: 1 Crore (Appx.)

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Mercedes 280SL

Right away she will throw you back to the classic era between the ‘60s and the ‘70s. The Mercedes 280 SL is a czarina on roads… that was regenerated with an advanced engine that was the next stage of evolution for the M130 and a larger bore increased displacement to 2,779cc, thus giving the car 180-horsepower and increased torque. She makes for a perfect drive into a heritage diorama that creates any traveller to feel like a monarch.

• Jaipur to Udaipur
• Jaipur to Jaisalmer via Jodhpur
• Delhi to Agra via Mathura
• Delhi to Lucknow
• Delhi to Khajuraho via Orchha
• Delhi to Bhopal and Sanchi via Jhansi
• Delhi to Amritsar
• Kolkata to Puri and Konark
• Chennai to Pondicherry
• Bangalore to Mysore
• Bangalore to Hampi
• Bangalore to Badami

Price starts from: 45 Lakhs (Appx.)

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Jaguar XK150

Now she is a lady of pleasure for any traveller who loves to seek the regal incense in the midst of concrete jungle. Driving her once is surely ditching your long and happy relationship. The Jaguar XK150 is another classy dame that will pull you back to the ‘50s and the ‘60s. She comes in 5 different models – XK 150 3.4, XK 150 3.4 SE, XK 150 3.4 S, XK 150 3.8 SE, and XK 150 3.8 S – with 5 different engines and advanced dimensions.

Price Starts from: 48 Lakhs (Appx.)

You need to be a hunk to drive this monster. It is the perfect and ultimate pick for a challenging road trip in regions like Ladakh, Zanskar , Nubra , Arunachal Pradesh , and Thar Desert. This midsize truck was introduced as a SUV in 2006 underpinning the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon. It has a masculine exterior and interior that comes in one single model with 3 engines (separately) and 1 transmission.

• Delhi to Gulmarg via Chandigarh and Srinagar
• Chandigarh to Hunder via Srinagar, Kargil and Diskit
• Siliguri to Lake Tsomgo and Nathu-La Pass via Gangtok Guwahati to Tawang

Price starts from: 60 Lakhs (Appx.)

About Swairik Das

Brought up from the cultural capital of India, Kolkata, Swairik Das is a passionate traveller who seeks to travel and explore the length and breadth of the country. He is also a dedicated travel writer, blogger and photographer who by heart is also an adventure freak. His focus is mostly into exploring and writing on trekking, jungle safaris and several adventure activities; religion, festival, heritage, people and cuisine.

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10 Topmost Cars to Opt for Your Solo Road Trips

Road trips aren’t measured by miles but with memories! Maybe that is why you will see lots of explorers and wanderlust souls opting for this medium of transportation to explore new places. And why not, if you have the passion for driving, your car is excellent, and the roads are wonderful, then nothing can stop you to explore the destinations to the hilt. And we think road trips let you understand and explore places up close and personal, but as per your convenience. Of course, no other medium of conveyance provides you with this benefit. So today, why not concentrate upon your medium of transport, your trusted travel companion, rather than narrating about locations to travel to?

We believe — if the journey is awesome, the charm of reaching the destination intensifies. And do you know what makes your journey fabulous? Yes, you guessed it right — a wonderful car. Especially if you are a solo traveller, your car is your only travel companion. If it is uncomfortable and not too exciting to drive, you can well imagine how your journey is going to be . So, always pay double attention to the cars you are opting for the solo road trips in India. 

The best cars extremely suitable for your solo road trips in India!

• Maruti Swift
• Mahindra Scorpio
• Honda Amaze
• Ford Ecosport
• Hyundai Santro
• Maruti Ertiga
• Hyundai Creta
• Maruti Swift Dzire
• Volkswagen Vento
• Mahindra Marazzo

If you are planning on exploring the Earth better anytime soon and intend to get a car rental for road trips, we suggest you try one of the below listed exclusive cars. These are all going to make the most sensational partners in crime for you and would definitely not harass you in the middle of the journey.

1. Maruti Swift

The Swift version of Maruti is till now one of the best cars for road trips in the small segment. Though it’s a five-seater vehicle, still you can comfortably take it around for a solo trip. From vast roads to steep alleys, this car has the power steering that lets you explore each part of India smoothly.

2. Mahindra Scorpio

Yes, we know for you alone, Mahindra Scorpio can be too huge! But remember it’s the toughest vehicle that lets you drive on the toughest and roughest terrains of the country like a breeze. That’s why we call it one of the best cars for long-distance solo road trips.  So, when you are going for camping or adventurous trips to the Himalayas or such hilly locations, then obviously Mahindra Scorpio should be the companion for you.

3. Honda Amaze

Honda Amaze doesn’t fail to amaze us. Its sleek body and comfortable leg space make it one of the most comfortable cars to drive a long drive. So, if you are heading for a religious trip to certain parts of India or want to explore the royal cities of the country in a regal way, go for Honda Amaze.

4. Ford Ecosport

Feeling sporty? Then do take Ford’s Ecosport along for a nice, exciting road trip. Eat up the long miles of the National Highways of India smoothly but with the speed that you desire. Extremely comfortable to steer around, Ecosport also lets you enjoy a comfortable rear seat in case you want to relax amidst your journey when you pine to put your feet up. So, isn’t it the partner in crime you require for your journey?

5. Hyundai Santro

Hatchback cars aren’t much comfortable if you are having someone occupying the rear seats and the roads are rough. But if you are heading for the popular solo trip destinations in India like Leh, Dharamshala, Nag Tibba, etc., then you can opt for a hatchback car like the Hyundai Santro. There is also an MT and AT version of it and both can be really great for your long solo trips.

6. Maruti Ertiga

We would highly suggest you go for Maruti Ertiga — the ‘multi-purpose vehicle’ (MUV) that should be your real time companion on your long routes of road trips.  The longer size of the vehicle makes it almost like a mini-van wherein you can stuff all your necessities for the road trip. Even if you are looking for managing the sleeping arrangements inside the car, this is possible in this MUV. What’s more, the tough body of Maruti Ertiga makes it all the more friendly for the topsy turvy of roads of India. 

7. Hyundai Creta

Hyundai Creta is another SUV or sport utility vehicle that’s most recommended for your long and sporty road trips. The tough structure and body of the SUV and the comfortable seating are great for your road trips. But don’t hesitate to hop in it just because it’s your solo trip. It can be really convenient to drive on the most difficult roads and tough terrains of the country. 

8. Maruti Swift Dzire

If a sedan is in your wish-list for your solo trip to the incredible destinations of India, then just download the Revv app and get a Maruti Swift Dzire for your journey. It’s very comfortable for driving and even provides the smoothest performance on the toughest of roads. Also, since it’s smaller in size, you can easily drive and manipulate it across the narrowest of alleys and valleys. 

9. Volkswagen Vento

Volkswagen is one of the best companies manufacturing excellent cars till date. And when we talk about its latest sedan called Vento, we are all praises about it. Being a five-seater vehicle with a sleek and classy body and super comfortable leg space, it’s perfect for your solo trips. Even the bonnet space of this car makes it spacious enough to carry your stuff neatly.

10. Mahindra Marazzo

Another one of the toughest vehicles for your long trips is Mahindra Marazzo. A diesel-based car that lets you enjoy a vast space inside and also a tough performance on the road. No matter how the roads are, you will be extremely comfortable during your drive in this vehicle.

Well, these cars are some of the best ones to consider when you are on roads to eat up the miles rapidly and discover unknown places of the country. The company of this sanitized and safe car rental from Revv is surely going to make your journey worth cherishing for years.

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The official blog of Revv Self Drive Car Rental, was started in November of 2019 with the aim to make leisure travel easy & accessible. The blog covers places to visit in India, new trends in the car rental industry & most importantly how to make your travel/roadtrip easy & memorable.

India’s fastest growing self-drive car rental company with different options to meet all your self-drive needs – Hourly Rental, Annual car subscriptions, Monthly car subscriptions, Hyundai Subscription (annual and monthly subscriptions for Hyundai cars) and Mahindra Subscription (annual and monthly subscriptions for Mahindra cars). Enjoy unique features – Prices with or without fuel, Flexibility to choose different delivery & return locations within same city and Unlimited KMs option. Book online and drive it like your own car!

Spread across 22 cities – Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Mangalore, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Vizag, Kochi, Coimbatore, Mysore, Tirupati, Vijayawada, Trivandrum, Surat, Vadodara, Bhubaneswar & Nagpur.

Best Road Trips in India That You Must Take

Best road trips in india, here is the list of 25 best road trips in india that you must take, 1. mumbai to pune expressway.

Distance: 94 Kms An easy weekend getaway from Pune/Mumbai, a road trip to Lonavala is something that almost all local residents will swear by. Dont forget to savor 'chikki' in Lonavala. The picturesque surroundings and lush green foliage are great at calming those jittery nerves. So if you are in the region and planning to take a road trip look no further. Put the medal on the pedal, and get cracking! Duration: 2 to 3 hours Road Trip Guide: The expressway is 94 Kms long and considered one of the best road trips in India. Two-wheelers are allowed on old Mumbai-Pune Highway (which is in really good shape) while cabs and buses ply on the Mumbai-Pune expressway. Sunny Da Dhaba and The Kinara Village Dhaba are good eating options on the Pune-Lonavala stretch.

2. Manali to Leh Highway

Distance: 479 Kms The beauty of the road trip in India from Manali to Leh cannot be captured in words. Remember Kareena Kapoor dancing to 'Yeh Ishq Hai' from Jab We Met? Wouldn't it be fun to cruise along that road in all its snowy glory on an open jeep or a Bullet? Ah! So Pretty! Duration: 2 days Road Trip Guide: It spans a length of 479 km with a mean altitude in between 3 to 4 km above sea level. The road is open for about 5 months a year mostly during summers and mid-October. The journey takes about 2 days with one stopover for rest and acclimatisation.

3. Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley

Distance: 116 Kms The graceful marriage of the Bay of Bengal and the Eastern Ghats in Visakhapatnam are a sight to behold. Any first time visitor to the city is taken away by the pristine beauty of this union in the city. When the same traveller takes a trip to Araku, he's completely mystified by the beauty of the road. The curly roads, the gentle elevation and the sweet serenity of the hills make it an amazing road trip in India and will etch a permanent place in your heart for an eternity. Duration: 3 hours Road Trip Guide: The road spans about 116 kms. There are interesting places like Borra caves and Tatipudi Reservoir on the way. The best time to visit the region is between October and March.

4. Shimla to Manali via Mandi

Distance: 250 Kms Clichés, when it comes to choosing a travel destination, should never be steered clear of! The Shimla-Manali road trip, with the River Beas trudging alongside, is a beautiful road trip to relax and unwind in India. Take a break from and play in the ice-cold water of the river. Nothing says Himachal vacation like playing in the water during the ride between Shimla and Manali! Duration: 5 to 6 hours Road Trip Guide: This 250 Kms stretch requires a little longer than usual due to hilly terrain. All the more reason to be one of the best road trips in India.

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Manali volvo tour package - excursion to solang valley, ladakh 7 days itinerary - summer holiday package with nubra & pangong stay, darjeeling tour package for family: gangtok & kalimpong, sikkim tour package for 7 days - excursion to tsomgo lake, andaman island trip package - snorkeling at elephant beach, 5. chennai to pondicherry.

Distance: 151 Kms This is one of the most beautiful roads for travelling on a cruiser motorbike. Chetan Bhagat wrote about it, and rightfully so. The Sea on one side of the road is a sight to behold as the day grows. The changing reflections of the Sun on the water as the day advances makes it most beautiful road around Chennai and probably India will leave you feeling thoroughly satisfied. Be prepared for a lot of Photography sessions while on the road! Duration: 3 hours Road Trip Guide: This stretch of road is known as the East Coast road. This route passes through Mahabalipuram (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Kalpakkam (nuclear facility), Idaikkazhinadu (Alamparai Fort aka Alambara Fort), Mudaliarkuppam (with a cool boathouse and water sports facility), Marakkanam (famous for large salt pans) etc.

6. Guwahati to Tawang

Distance: 520 Kms Two absolute essentials from Northeast and a trip just like its two ends- challenging, yet spread across an extremely beautiful terrain. A few stops in between, and you should be able to pull it off more conveniently. Duration: 2 days Road Trip Guide: The distance requires a stopover or two.

7. Puri to Konark via NH 203

Distance: 36 Kms While scenic roads in Orissa would very well put most of the Eastern states of India to shame, the Puri-Konark highway is one of those beautiful roads to do Photography that when undertaken, will force you to drain the battery on your camera. The canopy formed by the trees on either side of the road, the soft misty breeze and the obvious idyllic beauty will leave you mesmerised, now and forever! Duration: Under 1 hour. Road Trip Guide: This short stretch can be covered in about an hour and makes for a memorable road trip.

8. Gangtok to Lake Tsomgo and Nathu La Pass

Distance: 56 Kms The North-East, largely unexplored is home to some of the best destinations for road trips in India. This is one of those road trips of North-East that you should undertake at once without thinking much. The hilly terrain might make it a challenging ride, but the beauty of the road lies in the uncertainty of the terrain. The awesome sight along the roads on mountain ranges will totally make up for everything else! Take a road trip in winters to Lake Tsomgo (also known as Changu Lake) from Gangtok and know happiness like never before! Duration: 2 hours Road Trip Guide:  With Lake Tsomgo falling on the route at around 39 Kms from Gangtok, you are bound to have an unmatched road trip experience.

9. Bangalore to Bandipur Forest

Distance: 220 Kms One cannot put forward a list of awesome road trips in India without accounting for one that is taken along a forest. The Bandipur Forest route to Bangalore is one of the most beautiful trips through forests in India, that you'll ever take. One can take the same road to Ooty from Mysore passing though Bandipur National Park. Have a road trip with friends in a car with a sunroof, singing all the way. You might spot deer nonchalantly crossing the road. There's no better manner of paying your respects to this charming highway! Duration: 4 hours to 5 hours Road Trip Guide: Running along the scenic Mysore Road, there are various places for stopovers and eating along the route including McDonalds and Cafe Coffee Day.

10. Shimla to Manali via Kinnaur and Spiti

Distance: 645 Kms A more recommended route to Shimla than the Mandi one, this is the road trip in India you should take instead if you are looking forward to the road trip being the highlight of your trip. Cover Kalpa, Sangla valley and even higher bits of the valley like Nako, Chango, Ropa if you wish. Duration : 4 to 5 days (stopovers included) Road trip Guide: The stretch is longish and you can cover it in 3-4 days time (unlike shown in Google Maps). You can stopover at Rampur as the first stop. Shimla to Rampur is around 130 km and the roads are decent till this point. Rampur to Nako is around 180km and it almost takes an entire day to cover this part. The road is very bad but equally scenic. Nako to Kaza is another 110 km and it is really beautiful as it is completely in Spiti region, but the roads are still bad. The stretch from Nako to Kaza could take more than half a day and you can stopover at Kaza. The last part of the trip is from Kaza to Manali via Kunzum La and Rohtang La and this stretch is better than the previous two parts, but still quite bad. This will also take an entire day easily.

11. Chennai to Munnar

Distance: 585 Kms If you've got a weekend and Chennai's weather just doesn't cut it, Munnar is your escape. Even better, is that it can come with a though longish but refreshing road trip that might just be what you need to kick start your stay at Munnar. Duration: 10 to 12 hours (not including stopovers) Road Trip Guide: There are three different routes which you can take from Chennai to Munnar. All three routes comprise of amazing attractions to make your road trip more memorable.

12. Delhi to Agra via Mathura on Yamuna Expressway

Distance: 233 Kms The Yamuna expressway is probably the best road in the country at present and an absolute must-do for all road trip enthusiasts in Delhi. If you have enough driving stamina, you can visit the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort and come back to Delhi by the end of the night. Duration: 4 hours Road Trip Guide: You can cover this stretch on the Yamuna Expressway in less than 2 hours as the road is just amazing. However, getting to Yamuna Expressway from Delhi itself is around 70km, so add another hour or two to the total journey. Take care of the air pressure in your tires. Too much heat while driving at a fast speed have caused tires of some vehicles to burst, so remember to maintain a lower than normal air pressure.

13. Jaipur to Jaisalmer

Distance: 558 Kms Known as the 'golden city' due to its bounteous golden dunes and castles clad in golden honey sandstone, Jaisalmer is adorned with lakes, ornate Jain temples and havelis. Climb on to the camel saddle and make your way through this desert or camp under the night sky in this golden land for an unforgettable experience. Duration : 9 to 10 hours Road Trip Guide: The roads are in top-notch condition and a pleasure to drive on! Go along the RJ SH 19 which is the best option as far as routes are concerned. Make a refueling stop at Jodhpur, both for your car and your tummy. Authentic Rajasthani cuisine can be found anywhere along this route in India.

14. Shillong to Cherrapunjee

Distance: 59 Kms For a 53 km stretch, this one has a lot to offer from drizzles, waterfalls, caves, villages and a beautiful view from your window. You will find stops for food along the way. Duration: 2 hours Road Trip Guide: The trip will take you about 1-2 hours without any traffic or stops. This is a popular stretch, often covered by car only.

15. Mumbai to Goa

Distance: 556 Kms This can probably be called the Father of Indian road trips. Drive towards the sun, the sea and the sand on a gorgeous road that will inspire and gear you up for the upcoming fun. Duration: 12 hours (without stopovers) Road Trip Guide: The road from Mumbai to Goa along the NH 17 is as smooth as creamed butter and utilizes about 10 hours of travel time. Leave Mumbai early in the morning and reach Goa before the parties begin! There are several food joints along the drive to keep your heart and stomach full.

16. Delhi to Jaipur

Distance: 281 Kms Watch the Aravallis bounce off as you drive along one of the most well-maintained highways for a road trip in India into one of the most colourful cultures of our land. Duration: 5 to 6 hours Road Trip Guide: The roads were in excellent condition until the last few years, but it has deteriorated in the recent past and the course is marked by many restaurants along the way. Take a pit stop at any one of them, refuel and move!

17. Mumbai to Mount Abu

Distance: 758 Kms Is the metropolitan life sucking the life force out of you? Do you want some peace and quiet, if even for a day? Perhaps, my dear Mumbaikars, its time to seek that solace in Mount Abu. Unwind! Duration: 12 hours Road Trip Guide: Take the NH 8 from Mumbai to Mount Abu via Vadodara and Ahmedabad. It stretches on for over 750 Kms. If you're in for a longer holiday, explore the two towns for their authentic culture and Gandhian history respectively. The road is kissed all over with plenty of dhabas, so eat away!

18. Kolkata to Digha

Distance: 183 Kms Any Kolkatan will swear by this road journey, claiming that they have taken it at least 4 times in their lifetime. Why? The road is basic and pleasing, great for revving up your vehicles, lined with green patches all throughout. Digha is a favourite weekend trip option for many East Indians for its short and sweet appeal. Walk along the beach or ride a pony in the shallow waters, two days here will take your mind off things and let you relax. Duration: 4 hours Road Trip Guide: This route in India is dotted with plenty of Dhabas, so eating along the route isn't a problem. The road stretches for over 180 kilometres and travel time is almost 3 hours. Enjoy the delightful drive, clicking snaps all the way!

19. Jaipur to Ranthambore

Distance: 155 Kms Take State Highway 24 to check off 3 essentials of your list Jaipur, Ranthambore and the beautiful stretch in between. There is also a certain Bassi Wildlife sanctuary in between you can make a stop at. Duration : 3 hours Road Trip Guide: The route taken is via NH52 and should take you about 3 hours of an afternoon well spent.

20. Bangalore to Ooty via Mysore

Distance: 273 Kms The road from Bangalore to Ooty, nestled in the lap of the Nilgiri hills, is one of those journeys every road fanatic should undertake once in his lifetime. The roads are the perfect combination of green leafy and asphalt, and the drive is a great idea to soothe your jittery nerves! Duration: 6 to 7 hours Road Trip Guide: The SH 17 is in great condition and dotted with plenty of eateries. For a sumptuous dining experience, try Kamath's near Channapatna. However, if you're one who doesn't like too many surprises for your belly, you can find a McDonald's and Cafe Coffee Day along the way. Stopover at Mysore and enjoy the history of the ancient city before gearing to sit in the lap of nature.

21. Delhi to Shimla

Distance: 342 Kms Somewhere in my heart, behind vertigo and nausea, there is a train of thought that feels that nothing beats the beauty of a road trip on the hills. The great expanse of the Himalayas and the soft cottony clouds blend in the most endearing route and the chilly winds in your hair make for the most sublime of experiences.  Duration: 7 hours Road Trip Guide: Take the Grand Trunk Road from Delhi and trudge along for a long weekend away from the cacophony of the city. The journey takes about 6 hours and 40 minutes. Eating on the drive is not a problem on this route. Give your stomach a treat at Sukhdev ka Dhaba at Murthal for their sumptuous paranthas!

22. Bangalore to Goa

Distance: 556 Kms Ask students and IT professionals in this part of India about their mantra of chilling in the weekend, and they will swear by the bike road trip between Bangalore and Goa. The road is alluring, calm and serene, with several Punjabi dhabas lining the course serving delicious food. Food for your stomach and for your soul, isn't it? Duration: 10 to 11 hours Road Trip Guide: The road stretches for 556 kilometres, and is in good condition. Many would say that a car is the better option to hit the road between Bangalore and Goa, but you can trust your preferences while deciding. Rent-a-cab facilities are available from Bangalore ranging from Rs. 9 to Rs. 48, in addition to toll taxes. Pack a pair of flip flops, dribble sunscreen all over and have fun!

23. Kolkata to Puri

Distance: 498 Kms The drive between Kolkata and Puri is full of surprises. The green drive and the pretty roads will leave you awed, while the idyllic beauty of both the journey and the destination will calm your soul. Duration: 10 hours Road Trip Guide: The best way is to go to Kharagpur and march along to Balasore from there, followed by Pipli, Cuttack and Bhadrak. The distance can be covered in about 10 hours of travel time. Hit the road before dawn from Kolkata and you'll reach in time for Puri's lovely beach-side sunset and succulent crab fries from local vendors!

24. Ahmedabad to Kutch

Distance: 400 Kms Go away for a short weekend holiday to Kutch and enjoy it thoroughly. Soak up the culture and the white beauty of the Rann, enjoying yourself completely. Duration: 10 to 11 hours Road Trip Guide: The stretch takes 11 hours to cover. Some parts of the road are a little untamed, so make sure you start very early in the day from Ahmedabad.

25. Pamban Bridge to Rameshwaram

Distance: 13 Kms Ever pictured driving on a road with vast expanses of water everywhere you look? Precisely why Pamban made it to our list! Sometimes, the infinite ocean under your feet and the moist breeze in your hair is all the therapy you need. It makes for a memorable road trip in India.  Duration: 15 to 20 minutes Road Trip Guide: This stretch can be easily covered in about 20 minutes.

India is a country of many facets, attitudes and varying definitions of beauty. The best idea is always to explore as much as you can, yourself. After all, nothing can beat the thrill of being on the road, right? Got more ideas for us to share? Let us know in comments and we'd be glad to hear :)

This post was published by Pallavi Siddhanta

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The 12 best road trips in India

From the rugged north to the lush, green hills of the south, India has an epic road trip for everyone

For me, off-roading in the Himalayas has to be my favourite road trip in India . I remember tucking in a shawl in the back seat of the car at 4am, heading from Chandrataal towards Delhi in -7C temperatures. The shivering cold, missing out on sleep, and every other compromise was all worth it for the experience of road-tripping through the narrow serpentine roads that make their way through the world’s highest mountains.

But that’s not the only unforgettable road trip that India has in store. From the rugged northern terrain of Ladakh to the lush hills of Kerala in the south, this vast country has something for every kind of traveller. Trust me: there is no better way to explore this land of vibrant culture, delicious food, rich culture and welcoming people than by hitting the road. Fasten your seat belts and start planning for these unmissable Indian road trips.

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The best road trips in India

1.  Golden Triangle Circuit

Starting from Delhi – the national capital and home to some of India’s most mouthwatering food – the first leg of the trip takes you to a bona fide icon: the Taj Mahal at Agra. Then turn and drive west towards  Jaipur to witness the golden deserts and unique culture of Rajasthan. The final side of the triangle is the road back to Delhi: leave time for a luxurious stop-off amid the royal surroundings of Neemrana Fort Palace .

Distance:   447 miles

2.  Rajasthan Circuit

From a desert safari under the moonlight to a puppet show performed to Rajasthani folk music, there’s a tonne to experience on this road trip circuit touching the four major cities of the state: Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, and Udaipur. You can also call it a gastronomical road trip for the variety of food you can consume across the state: ghewar, kachori, dal baati choorma and more.

Distance : 1,087 miles

3.  Shimla to Spiti Valley

If you are a mountain child or a fan of off-roading, you cannot miss out on the drive from   Shimla   to Spiti. The trip takes you along the bumpy-yet-beautiful dirt roads of Himachal Pradesh, surrounded with apple-laden trees. Keep your camera app open to capture the snow-capped peaks, blue skies and crystal-clear rivers.

Distance:  263 miles

4.  Guwahati to Tawang

Surrounded by the mighty Himalayas, the north-eastern part of India is still an underrated gem. From lush green valleys to the serenity of Buddhist monasteries, this road trip is the perfect choice to unwind and escape the crowd. It’s also a chance to witness the Indigenous cultures of tribes such as the Monpa, Takpa, Karbi and Miri, including traditional local festivals and dance forms like bihu.

Distance :  318 miles

5.  Mumbai to Goa

Famous for being featured in one of the best Bollywood movies , ’Dil Chahta Hai’, this road trip takes you along India’s beautiful west coast. The roads from Mumbai to Goa are super- smooth and surrounded by tall, lush palm trees. There are frequent beaches to stop for sunbathing, and plenty of incredible local food in the small villages and towns along the Konkan coast.

Distance : 365 miles

6.  Chennai to Pondicherry

India has its very own French town: Pondicherry . If you are in the southern part of the country, do not miss out on the road trip there from Chennai . You’ll travel through not just French-inspired architecture but also many quaint fishing villages and pristine beaches, feasting on delicious seafood and fresh coconut water along the way.

Distance: 93 miles

7.  Ahmedabad to Kutch

This road trip is all about meeting people: the friendly locals of Ahmedabad, the skilled artisans in the villages of Kutch and the nomadic tribes roaming the desert. Time your journey between October and February to experience the lively Rann Utsav festival in the white-sand Kutch desert – the kite-flying event in February is particularly spectacular.

Distance : 248m

8.  Mysore to Hampi

Drive through the heart of   Karnataka  state  and soak up the rich culture and history along your way. The road runs by a plethora of ancient heritage and architectural marvels: Chitradurga Fort,  Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangapatna, Dariya Daulat Palace… Give in to the cliché of posing for selfies: your future self will thank you for the memories.

Distance :  265 miles

9.  Bengaluru to Ooty

If you fancy a cup of tea and a blast of fresh air, then hop in the driver’s seat and get set on a Bengaluru to Ooty road trip. The route will take you through the lush green Western Ghats, where you can slurp some tea fresh out of the plantation. Leave time to admire the enormous and beautiful waterfalls of Chunchi and Shivanasamudra.

Distance:  168 miles

10.  Chennai to Munnar

Sprawling across a wide area, the tea plantations on the route out of Chennai will leave you awestruck. The route takes you through wildlife sanctuaries and serene backwaters: you might be caught off-guard by the diverse range of flora and fauna in this region. From scenic surroundings to cultural diversity, this drive has something in store no matter what you’re looking for in a road trip.

Distance:   395 miles

11.  Chilpi to Kanha

Bypassing through lush and dense Sal forest of Madhya Pradesh, this road trip is one of the best to explore the centre of India. The starting point, Chilpi, is located right at the border of Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, while Kanha is home to one of India’s biggest national parks. Along the road there are high chances of coming across a herd of deer or bison, a troop of monkeys or other wild animals strolling around.

Distance: 59 miles

12.  Bagdogra to Darjeeling

This exhilarating journey takes you along winding roads that ascend towards lush green hills. Along the way you can stop by small villages or pop inside the tea plantations. The occasional hairpin turns might leave you gasping, so don’t let the stunning views of the mighty Himalayas and Victorian architecture distract you from fastening your seat belt.

Distance:  43 miles

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Top 10 Best Car For Long Drive Tavelling in India Under 20 Lakhs

Best car for tavelling in india.

Are you a travel lover? Do you love travelling by road? Well, travelling by car has its own feel. You can explore and experience a lot when you travel by car as you can stop at food stalls or at a picturesque place to enjoy and click photos and then you can move ahead with your journey. There are many cars that are good for long drives with family and friends. Let’s discuss the best car for travelling in India :

List of 10 Best Comfortable Cars For Travelling in India – 

Honda civic – t op 10 travel cars india.

Price: 17.95 Lakh to 22.36 Lakh

The Honda Civic offers excellent comfort and ride quality, making it a great car for long drives. The engine is very refined to maintain a steady pace on the highways and twisty roads encountered during long road trips. The Honda Civic combines excellent ride quality with a comfortable cabin and flawless road manners. It can handle all types of driving, making it a versatile vehicle for long-distance runs. 

In this car category, the Skoda Octavia comes in a close second, but the Honda Civic is the winner in ride quality and cabin comfort. This makes Honda Civic the best car for long road trips in India .

Skoda Rapid

Price: 6.99 Lakh to 14.25 Lakh

This car is popular for long drives. Many drivers love the Skoda Rapid’s exceptional ride quality. The DSG transmission system makes it a fun car to drive on open roads. Skoda Rapid’s low running costs are well-known. The Skoda Rapid is able to share technology and parts with its siblings within the VW group, which makes them reliable and long-lasting. The Skoda Rapid is a great car for highway driving, thanks to its smooth ride and easy-to-use gearbox. It is among the best car for travel business in India .

Volkswagen Polo – Best Car For Travelling in India

Price: 5.87 Lakh to 10.25 Lakh

Because of its smooth engine and refined gearbox, the VW Polo is an excellent car for long drives. The back seat is very comfortable, so passengers will feel safe even on bumpy roads. The VW Polo now comes with a TSI 1.0 liter three-cylinder, MPI engine. It is economical and performs well. It produces 110 PS and 175 Nm torque, making it ideal for highway driving. Volkswagen Polo is among the best touring cars in India .

Maruti Suzuki Ciaz

Price: 8.99 Lakh to 11.98 Lakh

The Ciaz can seat 5 people in comfort, and it is an excellent vehicle for family road trips. So, it is the best car for travelling in India . The mild-hybrid system, which aids the petrol engine, ensures that it gets excellent fuel economy and lowers fuel consumption. It is a 1.4-liter engine with manual and automated transmission options. It also features dual airbags, ABS and EBD, a hill assist system, and rear parking cameras.

The Ciaz’s boot space is 510 liters, which allows for ample storage space for all your luggage during long-distance trips. All these make the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz among the best cars for long journey in India .

Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza

Price: 7.99 Lakh to 13.96 Lakh

Maruti’s best-selling SUV is a great car for long-distance driving. It is the best comfortable car for long distance driving in India . The cabin is spacious enough to accommodate five people comfortably. You can also store your luggage in the large boot. The SUV’s suspension is well-suited for Indian roads and can absorb bumps and potholes. 

Maruti Suzuki Dzire

Price: 6.24 Lakh to 9.18 Lakh

The Maruti Suzuki Dzire is the best car for tours and travels and it is well-suited for long distance driving. It is powered by a 1.2-liter petrol engine that is very smooth to drive. You can choose between a manual 5-speed transmission or an AMT transmission. The seats are comfortable and offer ample headroom and legroom.

The suspension system of the Dzire is very good and can absorb any impacts from poor roads well. The ride handling is excellent, making it a comfortable and safe drive. These are the reasons that make Maruti Suzuki Dzire the best car for travelling in India .

Hyundai Grand i10 Nios

Price: 5.43 Lakh to 8.45 Lakh

This small Hyundai hatchback is extremely fuel-efficient, has generous headroom and legroom, and has a very smooth engine. It is the best car for solo travel in India . The Grand i10 Nios has a fuel economy of around 25 km. It comes with two engine options: a 1-liter engine mated with a 5-speed manual gearbox, and a 1.2-liter petrol engine that is mated with a 5-speed manual transmission or AMT.

Honda Amaze – Best Travelling Car in India

Price: 6.63 Lakh to 11.50 Lakh

While looking for the best car for travelling in India , try Honda Amaze. Because its suspension can handle bumps well along the road, the Amaze makes long drives comfortable. This keeps the passengers safe and sound. The cabin is large and spacious, with good legroom as well as headroom. The Amaze actually has one of its best cabin spaces. 

The Honda Amaze’s boot space is amazing at 420 liters, which gives you plenty of space for all your luggage. This car is ideal for long drives due to its engine and gearbox options. Honda Amaze is the best SUV for long distance driving in India .

Price: 5.45 Lakh to 7.90 Lakh

Hatchbacks are great value for money and have excellent fuel economy, making them ideal for long-distance driving. The Tata Tiago is no exception. It is fuel-efficient, has sturdy construction quality, and has four-star safety features. You get dual airbags, ABS, and EBD as well as ample boot space of 242 liters. Furthermore, it is the best car for long drive in India under 10 lakhs .

The Tata Tiago is an excellent all-rounder with a large, comfortable cabin. The engine’s performance on the highway is excellent and it is well-suited for long drives and highway speeds. Sounds amazing, right? This car makes its passengers feel safe and comfortable.

Toyota Innova – Best Travel Car India

Price: 18.9 Lakh to 23.83 Lakh

Toyota cars are known for being reliable, durable, and economical to operate. The Toyota Innova is a great choice for our roads. There are three options for engine choices: a 2.4-liter diesel, 2.8-liter diesel, and a petrol engine of 2.8-liters. Toyota is the best travel car in India for long road trips .

You can choose between a 5-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed auto transmission. The Toyota Innova can achieve 11-15 km depending upon the type of engine and transmission. These figures are very affordable for a car that can easily seat 8 people and transport their luggage. Taxi drivers who travel hundreds of kilometers each day will choose the Toyota Innova as their car of choice. It offers plenty of space and can be driven to their destination in comfort.

Now, you know about the top travel cars in India . So, you can decide which is the best car for travelling in India according to you.

Read More –

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20 Best Road Trips in India

India is a massive country and through its annals lays several great venues that seduce the wanderlust souls with the promise of adventure and fun. Are you a biker who finds music in the hurl of the engine and the love the scene of long winding roads on serene countryside’s that are alluring?

Then you will definitely find your next destination for the best road trips in India in this post. So, start your engines…

1. Manali to Leh Highway

Distance : 479 KM

Time : 2 Days

National Highways : Leh Manali Higway

A stretch of road that has been immortalized on the silver screen by various Bollywood movies with famous actors and actresses dancing to their heart’s content on this beautiful road. Words fail to describe the beauty of the Manali to Leh highway drive and one must be there to witness its beauty in all its snowy glory. The image of the dark grey moist road against the snowy hill slopes and the azure blue backdrop is what road trip dream are made of. Hop on your trusty motorbike or an open roofed Jeep, so that the no glimpses of the sights are missed.

The road spans over a total of 479 km and has a mean altitude of 3 to 4 km above sea level. The road conditions are safe and remain open for 5 months during the summer up until mid of October . The total journey on road should take 2 days and has one stopover for acclimatization and rest.

Also Read : Complete Guidelines for Your Ladakh Road Trip

Suggested Tour : 9 Days - Road Trip to Leh Ladakh from Manali

2. Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley

Distance : 116 KM

Time : 3 hrs

What could be more picturesque than the meeting of the massive of seas of the Bay of Bengal with the majestic Eastern Ghats? This favorable meet of the ocean with the mountains creates for a wonderful experience of those wanting to take a weekend road trip. The union city of Visakhapatnam never fails to charm its guests with its unique beauty and then there is Araku Valley that is led up to by curving roads carved in between majestic green hills, under the grey sky with the smell of fresh flora in the air there to accompany you on your drive up.

The road is of 116 km and is dotted with interesting sights such as the Borra Caves and Tatipudi Reservoir on the way. The best time to take the trip would be from October to March .

3. Mumbai To Pune Expressway

Distance : 93 KM

Time : 2 Hrs

National Highways : Mumbai Pune Expressway

Many who live in the busy city of Mumbai think of Lonavala whenever they think of a road trip. And rightfully so, as it is a beautiful weekend spot for almost anyone who loves picturesque surrounding of mountains, soft breezes of the high altitude, a laid back vibe, lush green foliage all around and to bite the juicy chikki fruit which is a local favorite. The Mumbai to Pune expressway leads up to Lonavala which in 93 km long and allows for cabs and buses and private cars to ply, to and fro.

While two wheeler are only allowed on the old Mumbai Highway which is also a road in good shape with similar picturesque views leading up to the hills. But the relatively new expressway offers for a better driving experience. You also get stops at popular eateries to stuff your mouth with tasty north Indian food at places like Sunny Da Dhaba and The Kinara Village Dhaba, which have old school dhaba ambience to match with the food.

Also Read : Best Weekend Getaways from Mumbai

4. Manali to Shimla via Mandi

Distance : 250 KM

Time : 4 Hrs

Before, you claim this is too cliché, know that clichés are overly popularized for a reason. The Shimla to Manali road trip is one of the most relaxing long drives you will ever take amidst the hills along the curving roads leading up to the beautiful hill station. The River Beas accompanies throughout the stretch of the road as you drive through verdant greenery of the smooth road that bisects the mountains. If you are tired from all the driving then just get off any time and soak your feet in the ice-cold water of the river to wake from your drowsy drive and splash around to bring the inner child out. You haven’t taken a Himachal vacation unless you have at least a couple of selfies of you playing in the water during your ride between Shimla to Manali.

Recommended tour : 15 Days - Delhi Agra Jaipur with Himachal Tour

5. Tawang from Guwahati by Road

Distance : 520 KM

Time : 10 Hrs

These two are must visit spots when you are in the Northeast. While the drive is long and challenging, it is equally worth it for those who have a love for the roads and the hum of a bike or a car. The road trip is a long one needing 10 hours of drive, but there are several good places to stop and stretch and straighten your feet that makes it comfortably doable . Spread across a beautiful terrain of mountain roads, the 520 km journey makes it worth the time and effort.

6. Pondicherry from Chennai

Distance : 160 KM

Time : 3Hrs

National Highways : NH32

Take the route along the east coast road, which is ideal for those riding a bike. Even Chetan Bhagat the author speaks highly of the road as he has written about it in his book. This is one unique stretch that is accompanied by the sea alongside the long winding road to the beautiful city of Pondicherry. Make sure to keep your camera handy as the changing height of the sun and its reflections on the sea will make it a must to click photos to immortalize the beautiful memories that will be this trip.

This is surely one of the most beautiful roads in India perfect for a road trip around the year. The road stretches up to 160 km and passes through the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mahabalipuram. It takes a total of 3 wonderful hours to map the road, with other interesting sites lining it like Idaikkazhinadu (Alamparai Fort aka Alambara Fort), Kalpakkam (nuclear plant), Mudaliarkuppam (boat house with sporting facility), Marakkanam (large salt pans) and more.

Also Read : About Pondicherry – A Little France in India

Suggested Tour

• Full Day - Pondicherry Trip from Chennai
• 12 Days - South India Temple Tour

7. Konark from Puri

Distance : 36 KM

Time : 1 Hr

National Highways : NH 203

A road trip perfect for those artistic tree lined photographs, the beautiful canopy formed over the slim road that leads up to the historic town is truly a sight to behold. The soft misty breeze from the nearby ocean mixed with the woody smell of the handsome forest that lines the road will make for a great road trip experience with the perfect romantic ambience. This stretch is quite short of only 36 km and can be covered in only an hour, but you would want to savor the journey and wish for it to stretch a little longer.

8. Bandipur Forest to Bangalore

Distance : 235 KM

Time : 5 Hrs

National Highways : NH766

No list of road trips would ever be complete without a mention of a road trip that goes along a forest path. The route to Bangalore via the Bandipur Forest is the most beautiful road trip you can have in India, when it comes to drives through the forest. You may also take up this road when travelling to Ooty from Mysore, passing through Bandipur National Park . You can have road trips in a car with an open sun roof, playing Antakshari or other fun road trip games while enjoying the enchanting views outside. This is perhaps the most charming highway in the whole country and it would be a mistake to miss out on this road trip.

The road is 235 km long in total and takes about 5 hours of drive . However, you can get off and stretch your legs and fill up on snacks along the way, like at McDonalds or other cafes.

Also : Top Places to Visit Near Bangalore within 200 Kms

Suggested Tour : 11 Days - Karnataka and Kerala Tour

9. Gangtok to Nathula Pass through Lake Tsomgo

Distance : 55 KM

While the north east still remains largely unexplored, if you are keen on visiting a land pristine and untouched by the humdrum of tourism, then this is it. The north east offers some of the most picturesque sites for road trips, where the main beauty of the road is the uncertainty of the terrain. The trip to Lake Tsomgo from Gangtok also called as Changu Lake is a trip of a lifetime. From Gangtok Nathu-La Pass is about 55 km long and Tsomgo Lake is on the way and falls at 39 km from Gangtok .

• 4 Days - Gangtok Tour Packages
• 7 Days - Darjeeling Gangtok Tour Packages

10. Shimla to Manali Via Spiti and Kinnaur

Distance : 640 KM

Time : 17 Hrs

While the drive through Mandi is great, this is the more recommended route to Manali from Shimla. You should totally take this trip if the road travel itself is the highlight of your journey. Go through the picturesque valleys and passes with green mountains surrounding you through Kalpa, Sangla valley and the higher altitude areas that have a unique beauty like Nako Valley, Chango, and Ropa.

Suggested Tour :

• 6 Days - Shimla Manali Tour Packages
• 15 Days - Golden Triangle with Himachal Tour

11. Chennai to Munnar

Distance : 600 KM

National Highways : NH79

Chennai is never cold, but if you want to spend a weekend chilling under a cozy blanket then your best bet would be to drive up to Munnar . The long road trip will definitely refresh you for your pleasant stay at the peaceful hill station . The trip can take 10 hours of driving to map the distance of 600 km from the city to Munnar , but there are several great stops to rest and the drive is equally exciting as scenes change from the car window from the busyness of the streets of the city to the verdant greenery that line the canopy on your uphill drive.

Munnar Travel Guide :

• How to Reach Munnar
• Best Time To Visit Munnar
• Tourist Attractions in Munnar

Suggested Tour : 10 Days - Best of Kerala Tour

12. Jaipur to Jaisalmer

Distance : 559 KM

Time : 9 Hrs

National Highways : NH11

Yet another classic that might seem cliché but is unmatchable is the road trip from Jaipur to Jaisalmer, the desert city of Rajasthan. The road trip is the best opportunity to witness the changing colors of Rajasthan as you go through the various villages. The drive would also be a wonderful experience as the roads are in great conditions offering a smooth driving experience. We recommend taking the RJ SH 19, which is the best route to travel to Jaiselmer from the pink city of Jaipur. You can stop at Jodhpur for some refreshments as your car would need to fill up too. Authentic Rajasthani cuisine is available throughout the route in charming stalls with rustic ambience so, this is one stretch of a drive where would not be hungry.

Jaisalmer Travel Guide:

• Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer
• Shopping in Jaisalmer
• How To Reach Jaisalmer
• What to Eat in Jaisalmer

Suggested Tour : 8 Days - Rajasthan Tour from Delhi

13. Delhi to Agra through Yamuna Expressway

Distance : 233 KM

National Highways : Taj Express Highway

A seldom mentioned long drive from the heart of the capital city to the city of the Taj, Agra is definitely one of the best road trip stretches! The Yamuna Expressway is probably the best road in the entire country, its long and wide and in perfect conditions for that hassle free driving experience, a must visit for all lovers of the road. This is an easy day trip from the capital city, where you can visit the Taj Mahal and the Agra Fort and other areas and still be back to your cozy bed by the night.

The good road conditions make it easy to cover the 165 km of the route in a couple of hours. However, getting to the expressway from the city itself takes a drive of 60 km which should easily add another hour to your trip or even more. A good tip to keep in mind is to check your tire air pressure, fast driving on the road can cause too much heat that often causes tires to burst and can be dangerous. So, it is ideal to keep the tire air pressure filled at less than normal levels.

Another point to note is to pack in as much food and snacks and beverages as necessary because there are no delicious dhabas lining the expressway. There are a few small eateries that sell snacks after the toll gate, but they are not comparable to the cozy atmosphere and the filling food available in the dhabas.

Best tours packages for Road trips:-

• 2 Days Agra Taj Mahal tour By Car From Delhi
• Same Day Taj Mahal Tour By Car From Delhi
• Overnight Agra Tour

Read More : Top 20 Places to Visit Near Delhi: Weekend Getaway

Suggested Tour : 4 Days - Delhi Agra Jaipur Tour

Golden Triangle Tour - Cover Delhi, Agra & Jaipur

Must read : What is Golden Triangle Tour India and Why its famous?

14. Pamban Bridge to Rameshwaram

Distance : 13 KM

Time : 20 Min

National Highways : NH87

Perhaps the most picturesque drive through in the country, the feeling of whooshing through the long bridge that travels over the vast expanse of the ocean, with the wind in your hair. Such a drive would definitely be one of the best on-road experiences to indulge in and refresh your spirit. A simple 20 minutes ride on the 13.5 km long stretch of the bridge is worth a million but comes for absolutely free. This is a must do if you are a roadster in search of fun.

Also Read : Travel from Rameshwaram to Kanyakumari

15. Shilong to Cherrapunjee

Distance : 54 KM

National Highways : SH5

A small yet exciting daytrip destination to drive from Shilong, with all the dazzles of drizzling rain on the mountain road, rainbows over massive waterfalls, some of the most exciting caves , a beautiful panoramic view of lush hill top greenery all around you, and even stops for food along the way. This usually takes 1-2 hours to just drive and come back, without any stops or traffic. Most people cover it by car only.

16. Mumbai to Goa

Distance : 609 KM

National Highways : NH66

Much revered as the Father of the Indian road trip, from the busy city streets of Mumbai, drive towards, sun, sand and fun on a smooth road with green scenic views outside the window lining the width of the stretch. It takes 10 hours of great driving experience to go to Goa from Mumbai; on the infamous NH66 highway which is as silky as creamed butter spread on the earth that just lures your car towards worry-free travels. Also there are several great eateries lining the stretch of the route so, you will never be hungry or bored.

Also Read : Best Weekend Getaways from Goa

• 5 Days - Mumbai With Goa Tour
• 9 day Golden Triangle Tour with Goa

17. Jaipur from Delhi

Distance : 281 KM

National Highways : NH48

Yet another classic when it comes to road trips in India , you can watch the majestic Aravallis approach as you drive through the lanes of the most colorful towns and villages of Rajasthan and land at its capital – the pink city of Jaipur . The drive will be a great experience undoubtedly as this route is one of the most well-maintained one in the country. There are also several restaurants lining the way that will make the journey great.

Also Read : Top 10 Weekend Gateways Near Delhi

Suggested Tour : 3 Days - Private Jaipur Tour From Delhi

18. Kolkata to Digha

Distance : 180 KM

Time : 3 Hrs

National Highways : NH16 and NH116B

Ask any Kolkatan and the first response from them about road trips would be to cover this iconic stretch. The roads are in good condition, lined by greenery of paddy fields and mustard fields all around. And what’s better is that a little farther from Digha lies several other beach villages where the only way to drive and reach is to drive along the beach watching the waves crash on the shores a few kilometers away.

The road stretches for 180 km and will usually take up to 3 hours to reach the destination. There are plenty of dhabas and Bengali sweet shops along the way, so, you won’t go hungry while driving.

Read More : 20 Exciting Places to Visit in Kolkata

19. Mumbai to Mount Abu

Distance : 758 KM

Time : 13 Hrs

For those looking for some peace and quiet away from the never ending hustle of the city life, and the deafening early morning alarms and bursts of short-lived caffeinated energy; this is the road trip to take. The best place for Mumbaikers to unwind and relax, is Mount Abu , which is a short drive away. Drive through the NH 48 to Mount Abu via Vadodara and Ahmedabad, along the long 758 km . It will take a tiring 13 hour long drive, but there are plenty of options to stretch your legs, eat and rest or take short breaks along the way.

Also Read : Weekend Destinations Near Mumbai

Suggested Tour : 11 Days - Rajasthan Tour from Mumbai

20. Bangalore to Ooty via Mysore

Distance : 278 KM

Time : 6 Hrs

National Highways : NH275

Ooty is the queen of hill stations in India , nestled amidst the green Nilgiri Hills. Any lover of the road must take this journey whether on car or a motor bike to witness the sun-kissed beauty and the verdant greenery that changes with every mile you cross. The combination of dark asphalt surrounded by the leafy green is one of the best, and it is best experienced along this stretch. Explore the forests of Bandipur along with the historic places of Mysore enroute.

Also Read :

• Best Weekend Getaways from Bangalore
• Complete Info about Ooty

Suggested Tour : 6 Days - Bangalore Mysore Ooty Karnataka Tour

India is blessed with diversity in its culture, terrain and definitions of beauty. So, the best way to experience this truly unique country is to explore as much as you can in the simplest ways to understand the honest charm of the land.

Craving to listen to the hum of your car or bike on the road, then put it to gear and off you go! Adventure waits…

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4 Days - Madurai Rameshwaram Kanyakumari Temple Tour

10 Days - Nepal Tour Packages

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32 road trip essentials for adults and kids.

Travel more comfortably with these road trip must-haves.

Road Trip Essentials

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While you don't necessarily need a lot of things for a successful road trip, certain items can't be overlooked. Read on to discover which items you should consider adding to your road trip packing list, or jump to the section on what to pack for kids .

Road trip essentials for adults

From roadside emergency must-haves to multipurpose gadgets you can use throughout your journey, these are some of the most helpful items to have on a road trip.

"Hanger" can make a road trip go south pretty quick. Pack your favorite snacks and put them in an easily accessible spot.

Courtesy of ICEMULE

You might want to bring a small cooler for any snacks and drinks that need to stay cold. If you don't already own one, the best cooler bags include the ICEMULE Classic (available in a variety of sizes) and the CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag .

A seat organizer like this one by YOOFAN can help you keep snacks, tissues and any other essentials close at hand. Plus, it can double as a reusable bag for any small purchases you make during your road trip.

USB charging cables

If you have USB ports in your car, buy a set of charging cables so you can keep your devices charged and also play music and podcasts from your phone. Compatible with Apple devices, this two-pack of Amazon Basics cables is well rated; for Samsung devices, try these Anker cables . Both sets have 3-foot cords, which are the perfect size for car travel.

Portable charger

Courtesy of INIU

Even if you have charging ports and cables in your car, a portable charger is good to have on hand, too. Travelers rave about the INIU Portable Charger for its slim, lightweight design and overall efficiency.

Jumper cables

A set of jumper cables is essential to have in your car at all times, whether you're driving 2 miles down the road or 200 miles away from home. The Energizer Jumper Cables are especially well rated. Available for less than $20 on Amazon, the 12-foot-long cables are perfect for any car type and come with a travel bag for easy storage. Longer cables are also available.

Portable tire inflator

A portable tire inflator can be a lifesaver if you find your tires have a slow leak during your trip. The AstroAl Air Compressor Tire Inflator is compact, so it won't take up much space among the other gear in your trunk, and it includes an LED flashlight with independent switch control. It is programmed to stop automatically once it hits the preset tire pressure and it comes with a 36-month warranty.

Other travelers prefer the ViAir 88P - 00088 Portable Compressor Kit , noting it works well with a wide variety of vehicles. In addition to a 12-foot air hose and a 9-foot power cord, the kit comes with alligator clamps that power your air compressor by attaching to your car's battery.

Courtesy of Snow Joe

If you're traveling during the winter months and/or to a destination where you might encounter snow and ice, make sure you have a snow broom in your car. The Snow Joe 4-in-1 Telescoping Broom is especially convenient for travel because of its lightweight, foldable design, and recent buyers confirm the foam head prevents any scratching. This snow broom also features an ice scraper and LED lights with a blinking functionality for emergencies.

Dashboard phone mount

Avoid distractions by installing a dashboard phone mount before your journey starts. The iOttie Easy One Touch 5 comes with a telescopic arm, a magnetic cord organizer and a strong-hold suction cup. Plus, its easy one-touch lock-and-release mechanism (a feature that is much appreciated among recent customers) makes taking your phone on and off the holder a breeze. If you don't like the rigidity of traditional dashboard phone mounts, consider choosing a phone mount with a flexible arm instead.

Car document holder

In the event that you get into a car accident or are pulled over by the police, having easy access to your car's registration, insurance information and owner's manual is crucial – whether you're traveling or not. This two-sided holder , which comes in a pack of two for less than $5 on Amazon, does the job.

Roadside emergency kit

For peace of mind, many travelers recommend an all-purpose roadside emergency kit . These kits are typically equipped with a tire pressure gauge, a utility knife, safety gloves, cable ties, a tow rope, tire repair tools, first-aid supplies, rain ponchos and other useful items.

Courtesy of Busy Co

Freshen up with the extra-large body wipes from Busy Co , which are suitable for dry, oily and combination skin types. They address a variety of skincare needs, including clarifying, toning, soothing and nourishing. Recent customers appreciated the large size of the wipes and said using them made them feel refreshed while traveling.

Lysol wipes

Disinfecting Lysol wipes are a must-have on your travel packing list. These cleaning wipes kill 99.9% of viruses and bacteria, so you can feel protected while on the road.

Disposable toilet seat covers

Using disposable toilet seat covers can help you avoid germs and stay clean when you stop for restroom breaks at gas stations, port-a-potties and campgrounds.

Nausea relief

Courtesy of Sea-Band

Long hours in the car might sound daunting to anyone prone to motion sickness. In those cases, having preventative nausea medicine like Dramamine can be a lifesaver. If you prefer a drug-free alternative, Sea-Bands are anti-nausea wristbands that use acupuncture as a natural remedy to reduce motion sickness. Travelers say these bands are highly effective at reducing nausea.

Hand sanitizer

From gas pumps to ATMs, you never know what germs you may encounter on a road trip. Protect yourself against viruses by keeping a bottle of hand sanitizer in your car.

Book or e-reader

Sitting in the car for hours can be painfully boring at times. Bring a good book or an e-reader like the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite , which puts thousands of books at your fingertips. The device boasts up to 10 weeks of battery life, adjustable warm light and a glare-free display, which recent reviewers said made marathon reading sessions a breeze. Meanwhile, kids can enjoy the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Kids , which offers a special font for children with dyslexia and comes with a two-year warranty.

Rooftop cargo carrier

Save some space inside your vehicle by opting for a car roof cargo carrier. With an anti-slip mat and reinforced adjustable straps, the waterproof FIVKLEMNZ 15 Cubic Car Roof Bag Cargo Carrier from Amazon is suitable for any car type. Recent customers say that they had no problem getting it to stay in place even on high-speed roads.

Car trash can

Courtesy of Hotor

There's no doubt about it – road trips can generate a lot of trash. Keep your car clean on your next adventure with this Hotor car trash can from Amazon. Complete with an adjustable strap, mesh side panels for storage and a leakproof interior lining, this useful accessory comes highly recommended by travelers who find themselves frequently on the road.

Dog waste bags

Even if you don't have a dog, hear us out: Dog poop bags are useful for a variety of needs, from general waste to dirty diapers to unexpected accidents caused by motion sickness. The Earth Rated bags are 100% leakproof, and buyers agree they're effective at eliminating odors.

If you'll be sitting in the passenger's seat or backseat, bring a pair of earbuds or headphones. For kids, consider the fleece CozyPhones , which are volume-limiting for little ears and come in a variety of animal themes.

Travel pillow

Courtesy of Cabeau

Car passengers can get a bit more comfortable with the help of an ergonomic neck pillow for travel . Top-rated options include the Cabeau Evolution S3 and the MVLOC Travel Pillow .

Shield your eyes from the sun by picking up a good pair of sunglasses before your trip. Choose sunglasses that protect against the sun's UVA and UVB rays, and are polarized to block glare. Travelers love that these Ray-Ban Aviator Classic sunglasses come in a variety of tints and can even be customized to fit your needs. For a more budget-friendly option, check out these SUNGAIT Ultra Lightweight Rectangular Polarized Sunglasses from Amazon, which recent customers say are very comfortable and perfect for road tripping.

Beach blanket

Courtesy of WEKAPO

A large beach blanket or towel is one of the most versatile accessories you can bring on a road trip. You can use it to have a picnic lunch, to clean up a spill, to dry off playground equipment after a rainstorm and more.

Reusable water bottle

Skip the plastic bottles and opt for a high-quality reusable water bottle on your next trip. This  40-ounce bottle from Hydro Flask  keeps drinks hot for 12 hours and cold for a full day. It also comes with a lid with a built-in straw, which consumers say makes it convenient for driving. For kids, a durable water bottle like this  12-ounce YETI Rambler  fits the bill: Its stainless steel bottle is dishwasher-safe and shatter-resistant, a feature that parents love.

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Road trip essentials for kids

In addition to snacks, headphones, reusable water bottles, sunglasses and – depending whether your kids are in a car seat or not – travel pillows, the following items are essential to a successful road trip with kids.

Seatback organizer

A car seatback organizer lets you arrange road trip essentials on the back of the driver's or passenger's seat, where they're within reach of small hands. Many buyers said this seatback organizer from Amazon took some of the stress out of traveling with kids, thanks to its multipurpose storage compartments, including a place for a tablet and plenty of other spots to store key items for your trip.

Travel tray

Courtesy of LUSSO Gear

If your co-pilot is constantly turning around to pick up toys or pass out snacks, a backseat travel tray is in order. The LUSSO Gear Kids Travel Tray comes with a safety strap that can be secured to any car seat, and includes a dry-erase board table, a cup holder, a storage compartment for toys and a no-drop tablet viewing stand. Reviewers loved the tray's whiteboard area and said it was a great way to keep kids entertained on long car rides.

Window shade

Protect your backseat drivers from UVA and UVB rays with some window shades. Many parents like the shades by Enovoe , which come in a two- or four-pack.

Bag of small toys and activities

Load up on small toys you can surprise your kids with throughout the journey. Wikki Stix , Melissa & Doug Water Wow pads and sticker books are all good, low-cost activities, and you can find other cheap options at your local dollar and thrift stores. You might even add some candy to the mix, especially for that last leg of the trip.

Most parents want to keep screen time to a minimum, but all bets are off when it comes to travel. Consider a tablet like the Amazon Fire Kids , which comes with a protective case and one year of Amazon Kids+. Amazon Kids+ features thousands of ad-free books, games and apps; for any streaming services you have at home, you can download TV show episodes and movies so the kids don't need Wi-Fi to watch them.

Small blanket

Courtesy of Cubcoat

Bring a small blanket and/or other comfort item from home to ensure the kids are cozy and content in the backseat. You could also bring a Cubcoat , which is a two-in-one stuffed animal that transforms into a hoodie. Your child's furry friend (think bunnies, sloths and puppies) doubles as a soft, zip-up sweatshirt, and you get to save some space in your suitcase.

Kids travel journal

A kids travel journal makes it easy for your child to document their road trip and all the fun things they see and do. Plus, many kids journals feature world maps, puzzles, fun facts and more activities to keep boredom at bay.

Road trip tips

Plan your stops.

It can be helpful and fun to plan your road trip stops ahead of time. Break up the trip with stops at a pretty park, a quirky roadside attraction or a top-rated restaurant.

Debit cards and Venmo may be the way of the world nowadays, but you may still run into a few places on your journey that are cash-only. Be on the safe side by keeping some spare cash on hand.

Download a fuel savings app

You can save some money on fuel by using apps like GasBuddy , which will show you the cheapest gas prices in your area. Go the extra mile by signing up for a gas rewards credit card to get the most bang for your buck.

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• Mahindra Scorpio-N vs Hyundai Alcazar: Comparing Their Variants Priced Rs 18-20 Lakh for Long-distance Road Trip Lovers Mahindra Scorpio-N vs ...

Mahindra Scorpio-N vs Hyundai Alcazar: Comparing Their Variants Priced Rs 18-20 Lakh for Long-distance Road Trip Lovers

Written By: Kshitij Bisen Kshitij Bisen, leading copy editing at Cartoq.com, brings editorial rigor with nearly two decades of experience in journalism.

Kshitij Bisen, leading copy editing at Cartoq.com, brings editorial rigor with nearly two decades of experience in journalism. (Full bio)

Reviewed by Vikas Kaul Cartoq.com Co-founder

Published: Dec 29, 2023, 22:41 IST

Updated: Dec 29, 2023, 22:41 IST

What are the best cars for long drives, or highway driving in India? Today, we take a look at the Mahindra Scorpio-N and Hyundai Alcazar , and their variants to find out what makes them comfortable cars for road trips in India.

In this article, we will share

• What a long-distance road trip lover looks for in a car
• Mahindra Scorpio-N vs Hyundai Alcazar – an in-depth analysis of their features, fuel efficiency, space, and safety
• How to pick the right car for you

Also read: 10 DC Design cars & how they look in the REAL world: Maruti Swift to Mahindra XUV500

What a Long-Distance Road Trip Lover Looks for in a Car

What a long-distance road trip lover should look for in a car:

• Fuel Efficiency – The car should have high fuel efficiency so that long-distance trips are economical
• Space – The car should have good space for a comfortable and enjoyable trip
• Safety – The car’s safety ratings should be high, and adequate safety features
• Handling – The car’s handling must be superior, and it should have high-speed stability

Long-distance road trip enthusiasts prioritize comfort, safety, and performance in their vehicles. Key features include comfortable seating with ample legroom and adjustable positions, a reliable climate control system for consistent temperature management, and a high-quality audio system for entertainment. 

Safety features like a robust GNCAP rating, airbags, and advanced driver assistance systems are crucial. Efficient fuel economy, both in city and highway conditions, and a substantial fuel tank capacity ensure fewer stops and longer range. 

Stable high-speed performance, minimal body roll, and good visibility enhance the driving experience, while ample boot space is essential for luggage.

Why Mahindra Scorpio-N and Hyundai Alcazar are Popular

The Mahindra Scorpio-N and Hyundai Alcazar stand out in the SUV market for long-distance travelers. Both models offer spacious and comfortable interiors, crucial for extended journeys. 

The Scorpio-N is known for its robust build and off-road capabilities, making it ideal for varied terrains. It offers a high GNCAP safety rating, substantial fuel tank capacity, and efficient overall mileage, which are significant for long trips. 

The Hyundai Alcazar, with its stable high-speed performance and advanced features like ventilated seats and a high-quality Bose audio system, provides comfort and entertainment on the road. Its turbocharged engine ensures smooth power delivery, and features like adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera add to its appeal for safety-conscious drivers. 

Both models also offer a range of convenient tech features like touchscreen navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and ample charging ports, enhancing the overall travel experience.

Mahindra Scorpio-N and Hyundai Alcazar Variants Shortlist in Rs 18-20 Lakh Range

For Hyundai Alcazar, we have:

For Mahindra Scorpio-N, we have:

• Hyundai Alcazar Platinum Turbo 7 Seater

This variant offers a balance of comfort and technology, making it ideal for long trips. Its stable high-speed performance, coupled with features like ventilated seats and a touchscreen navigation system, ensures a comfortable journey. The Arkamys audio system enhances entertainment options. If you’re a tech-savvy gadget lover, you can read our comparison of the Alcazar with Kia Carens .

• Hyundai Alcazar Platinum (O) Turbo DCT 7 Seater

This variant steps up with the DCT transmission, providing smoother shifts and better fuel efficiency. Additional features like the Bose audio system and advanced safety features make it a more luxurious choice for long drives. If you’re a family-focused car buyer, you can check out our comparison of the Alcazar with MG Hector Plus .

Mahindra Scorpio-N Z4 Diesel E 4×4

For those who venture off the beaten path, this 4×4 variant is ideal. It offers robust off-roading capabilities without compromising on comfort and safety. The manual seating adjustments and OEM audio system are practical for rugged travels. If you’re an off-roading enthusiast, you can read our comparison of the Scorpio-N with Mahindra XUV700 .

Mahindra Scorpio-N Z8 Diesel

This variant balances off-road prowess with daily driving comfort. Its turbocharged diesel engine provides enough power for various terrains, while the genuine leather upholstery adds a touch of luxury.

• Mahindra Scorpio-N Z8 AT

This automatic variant of the Scorpio-N provides convenience and ease of driving, especially in traffic. It’s ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed driving experience without sacrificing power or off-road capabilities.

Our Pick for the Best Variant Among Mahindra Scorpio-N and Hyundai Alcazar for Long-Distance Road Trip Lovers

After analyzing the variants, the Hyundai Alcazar Platinum (O) Turbo DCT 7 Seater stands out as the best option for long-distance road trips. This variant strikes a perfect balance between luxury, comfort, and performance. 

The DCT transmission ensures smooth power delivery and better fuel efficiency, essential for long drives. Its advanced safety features, coupled with the high GNCAP rating, offer peace of mind. The Bose audio system and ventilated seats provide unparalleled comfort, making it ideal for extended periods on the road. 

Additionally, the Hyundai Alcazar’s turbocharged engine offers quick acceleration and stable high-speed performance, which are crucial for highway driving. The 360-degree camera and adaptive cruise control further enhance the driving experience, making it the top choice for long-distance road trip lovers.

The Top 3 Choices

How to pick the right car for you.

• For long-distance road trip enthusiasts, the Hyundai Alcazar Platinum (O) Turbo DCT 7 Seater emerges as the top choice due to its blend of luxury, comfort, and advanced features. 
• The Mahindra Scorpio-N Z8 AT follows closely, offering robust performance and convenience of an automatic transmission, suitable for varied terrains. 
• The Hyundai Alcazar Platinum Turbo 7 Seater provides a balance of technology and comfort at a more accessible price point. 

These three variants collectively offer a range of features that cater to the needs of long-distance travelers, including safety, comfort, entertainment, and driving ease, making them the best choices for extended road adventures.

If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.

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USA TODAY 10Best

10 must-see roadside attractions across the country

Best Roadside Attraction (2024) May 15, 2024

America’s highways are dotted with countless cultural and quirky landmarks that capture the attention of travelers. They're more than just stops along the way; they're destinations in their own right, each with a story to tell.

To find the best places to check out during your next road trip, an expert panel selected their top picks for the best roadside attractions across the U.S. — all just a short detour from a major highway. Then, readers voted for their favorites to decide the winners. Here are the 10 best roadside attractions across the country.

No. 10: Bonnie and Clyde Ambush Museum - Gibsland, Louisiana

Opened in 2005, the Bonnie and Clyde Ambush Museum resides in the former Ma Canfield's Cafe, the last business this couple visited before being ambushed and killed 8 miles down the road. Visitors can see photos and artifacts from the ambush as well as a replica of the car the couple died in. 

No. 9: Wall Drug Store Inc - Wall, South Dakota

A mainstay in Wall, South Dakota, since 1931, Wall Drug didn't take hold until it started offering visitors one simple thing: free ice water. Today, Wall Drug is home to more than 300 original oil paintings of Western art and illustrations, a restaurant, a mini Mount Rushmore, and much more. And, of course, you can still get free ice water. 

No. 8: Wheat Jesus - Colby, Kansas

Along Interstate 70 in Colby, Kansas, a billboard stands tall, featuring an image of Jesus standing in a wheat field with a sheaf of wheat in his hand. Paid for in large part by Tuffy and Linda Kay Taylor, the sign is meant to inspire passersby. It also remains a popular place for travelers to stop and snap a photo. 

No. 7: Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox - Bemidji, Minnesota

Well-known through folktales, Paul Bunyan and his pet, Babe the Blue Ox, are immortalized throughout Minnesota. One such paring is found at the Tourist Information Center in Bemidji, where visitors from all over take a moment to pose with the duo for a photograph. Paul stands at 18 feet tall, alongside Babe whose horns span 14 feet. 

No. 6: Paul A. Johnson Pencil Sharpener Museum - Logan, Ohio

More than 20 years ago, the Rev. Paul Johnson began collecting the seemingly mundane pencil sharpener. Today, the Paul A. Johnson Pencil Sharpener Museum showcases more than 3,400 pencil sharpeners at the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center. 

No. 5: Dalmatian Fire Hydrant - Beaumont, Texas

Donated by the Walt Disney Company in 1999 for the re-release of the animated movie "101 Dalmatians," the giant dalmatian-spotted fire hydrant stands 24 feet tall next to the Fire Museum of Texas in Beaumont. Not your ordinary fire hydrant, this one weighs 4,500 pounds, and at the time of its unveiling, it was the largest fire hydrant in the world.

No. 4: Carhenge - Alliance, Nebraska

Nebraska's version of Stonehenge, Carhenge is composed of 39 automobiles placed in the same proportions as Stonehenge. Additional car sculptures have since been added in what is known as the Car Art Reserve.

No. 3: World's Largest Ball of Twine - Cawker City, Kansas

In 1953, Frank Stoeber started gathering up a ball of twine. Four years later, that ball of twine stood 8 feet high and weighed 5,000 pounds. Each year, more twine is added to the ball, and, as of September 2023, it weighed more than 27,000 pounds. 

No. 2: Shealy's Official Skunk Ape Headquarters - Ochopee, Florida

Sometimes called the Sasquatch of the Southeast, the skunkape is rumored to live in the Everglades near Ochopee. At Shealy's Official Skunk Ape Headquarters, interested visitors can see a plaster cast of a skunkape footprint and Dave Shealy's photographic evidence of the creature.

No. 1: Lucy the Elephant - Margate City, New Jersey

Listed on the National Park Registry of Historical Landmarks, Lucy the Elephant stands six stories high in Josephine Harron Park. Visitors can stop by and have their photos taken with Lucy, and, for those who wish to go inside the elephant, guided tours are available. 

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Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

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

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

Senior Staff Writer

Bryan Hood's Most Recent Stories

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

We’re also at the point where there’s a trailer for practically every kind of camper, regardless of what vehicle they drive (including the most notorious EV out there, the Tesla Cybertruck ). If you’re the kind of person who likes the classics, there are multiple aluminum-sided Airstream and Bowlus models to choose from. Want to bring as much of your home on the road with you? How about Living Vehicle or Land Ark’s mammoth condos on wheels? There are also caravans you can take off-road with your 4×4 and ultra-light and compact models you can tow with even a crossover SUV. Some can even be turned into a mobile office if you want to mix work and play. Below are 16 travel trailers that will allow you to take to the road in just about any way you can imagine.

Our Best Travel Trailer Picks

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

• Best for Design Obessives: X-Cabin300

Best for Roughing It: Taxa Mantis

Best under 5,000 pounds: happier camper hc1.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best for Design Obsessives: X-Cabin300

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

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

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

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

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

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

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AAA Newsroom

Automotive, Travel, and Traffic Safety Information

Nearly 44 Million Travelers Leaving Town for Unofficial Start of Summer

Second highest memorial day holiday travel forecast since aaa began tracking in 2000.

WASHINGTON, DC (May 13, 2024) – AAA projects 43.8 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home over the Memorial Day holiday travel period*. This year’s total number of travelers is a 4% increase over last year and comes close to matching 2005’s record of 44 million Memorial Day travelers.  

“We haven’t seen Memorial Day weekend travel numbers like these in almost 20 years,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel. “We’re projecting an additional one million travelers this holiday weekend compared to 2019, which not only means we’re exceeding pre-pandemic levels but also signals a very busy summer travel season ahead.”   

Road trips are expected to set a record. AAA projects 38.4 million people will travel by car over Memorial Day weekend, the highest number for that holiday since AAA began tracking in 2000. The number of drivers this year is up 4% compared to last year and 1.9% higher than in 2019. Traveling by car is appealing for many people because of the convenience and flexibility it provides. AAA car rental partner Hertz says Orlando, Denver, Atlanta, Boston and Las Vegas are the cities displaying the highest rental demand , with the busiest pick-up days projected to be Thursday, May 23 and Friday, May 24.  

This Memorial Day weekend drivers can expect similar gas prices as last year when the national average was roughly $3.57.  Pump prices rose this spring but have held somewhat steady in recent weeks. Prices may creep higher as the summer driving season gets underway. The wildcard remains the cost of oil, and unlike last year, there are now two wars – in the Middle East and Ukraine – that could roil the oil market.  

Airports are bracing for a spike in travelers. AAA expects 3.51 million air travelers this holiday weekend, an increase of 4.8% over last year and 9% jump compared to 2019. This will be the most crowded Memorial Day weekend at airports since 2005, when 3.64 million flew for the holiday as the travel industry finally rebounded post 9/11. This Memorial Day weekend, air ticket prices are comparable to last year. AAA booking data shows a 1% to 2% increase in prices for domestic flights. Several factors play into how much travelers pay for airfare, including destination, number of stops, and fare class. For example, passengers who book nonstop flights with seat selection and carry-on bags included will likely pay more than those who select basic economy with a layover.  

  Nearly two million people are expected to travel by other modes of transportation, including buses, cruises, and trains. AAA projects 1.9 million people will take these other modes of transportation, an increase of 5.6% compared to last year. “This category took the biggest hit during the pandemic with fewer people taking public transportation or not cruising at all,” Twidale said. “Now – five years later – we’re back to 2019 numbers. Travel demand has been soaring, and long holiday weekends create the perfect windows for getaways.”  

Best/Worst Times to Drive and Peak Congestion by Metro 

INRIX , a provider of transportation data and insights, says drivers leaving Thursday or Friday should hit the road early to avoid mixing with commuters. Travelers going back home on Sunday or Monday should avoid the afternoon hours when return trips will peak.   

“Travel times are expected to be up to 90% longer than normal. Travelers should stay up to date on traffic apps, 511 services, and local news stations to avoid sitting in traffic longer than necessary,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX.  

Please note that the times listed below are for the time zone in which the metro is located.   

For example, Atlanta routes = ET and Los Angeles routes = PT

Source: INRIX   

Source: INRIX  

Top Destinations 

This Memorial Day weekend, travelers are seeking theme parks and entertainment venues in Orlando, New York, Las Vegas, and Southern California. Seattle, Anchorage, and Vancouver rank high because of the popularity of Alaska cruises this time of year. Florida beaches and cruise ports will also be packed. European cities dominate the international list. The top 10 domestic and international destinations below are based on AAA booking data.  

Travel Trends   

As travelers make plans for summer and beyond, AAA Travel has identified the following trends:  

• Bucket Lists : Travelers taking once-in-a-lifetime trips  
• Milestones : Families booking anniversary, retirement, and family reunion trips  
• Asia : More travelers interested in visiting Asia, especially Japan   
• Solo Trips : More people, especially women, interested in traveling by themselves  
• Luxury Vacations : More travelers seeking high-end cruises and tours  
• Trains : Many travelers interested in rail vacations across New England, Canada, and Europe  
• Adventure in Nature : Travelers booking trips to Antarctica, Africa, and South Pacific  

  Travel Agent Survey  

A recent survey of AAA travel agents highlights topics travelers are frequently discussing when booking trips:  

• Travel Insurance : 51 % of agents say more travelers are interested in protecting their trips  
• 77% of agents say ocean cruises  
• 70% of agents say all-inclusive vacations  
• 67% of agents say river cruises  

Holiday Travel Forecast Methodology   

In cooperation with AAA, S&P Global Market Intelligence (SPGMI) developed a unique methodology to forecast actual domestic travel volumes. The economic variables used to forecast travel for the current holiday are leveraged from SPGMI’s proprietary databases. These data include macroeconomic drivers such as employment, output, household net worth, asset prices, including stock indices, interest rates, housing market indicators, and variables related to travel and tourism, including gasoline prices, airline travel, and hotel stays. AAA and SPGMI have quantified holiday travel volumes going back to 2000.   

Historical travel volume estimates come from DK SHIFFLET’s TRAVEL PERFORMANCE/Monitor SM . The PERFORMANCE/Monitor SM is a comprehensive study measuring the travel behavior of U.S. residents. DK SHIFFLET contacts over 50,000 U.S. households each month to obtain detailed travel data, resulting in the unique ability to estimate visitor volume and spending, identify trends, and forecast U.S. travel behavior, all after the trips have been taken.  

The travel forecast is reported in person-trips. In particular, AAA and SPGMI forecast the total U.S. holiday travel volume and expected mode of transportation. The travel forecast presented in this report was prepared the week of April 15, 2024.   

*Memorial Day Holiday Travel Period   

For this forecast, the Memorial Day holiday travel period is defined as the five-day period from Thursday, May 23 to Monday, May 27, 2024.   

AAA Travel Agent Survey Methodology 

AAA clubs distributed surveys to a random sample of their travel agents between March 18 and March 29, 2024 to understand recent traveler trends over the past 60 days. 186 AAA agent responses were collected from 13 AAA clubs (representing 97% of AAA membership overall as of February 2024).  

About AAA    

Started in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts who wanted to chart a path for better roads in America and advocate for safe mobility, AAA has transformed into one of North America’s largest membership organizations. Today, AAA provides roadside assistance, travel, discounts, financial and insurance services to enhance the life journey of 64 million members across North America, including 57 million in the United States. To learn more about all AAA has to offer or to become a member, visit AAA.com.   

About S&P Global   S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI) provides essential intelligence. We enable governments, businesses, and individuals with the right data, expertise, and connected technology so that they can make decisions with conviction. From helping our customers assess new investments to guiding them through ESG and energy transition across supply chains, we unlock new opportunities, solve challenges, and accelerate progress for the world. We are widely sought after by many of the world’s leading organizations to provide credit ratings, benchmarks, analytics, and workflow solutions in the global capital, commodity, and automotive markets. With every one of our offerings, we help the world’s leading organizations plan for tomorrow today. For more information, visit  www.spglobal.com .   

About DKSA    

DK SHIFFLET boasts the industry’s most complete database on U.S. resident travel both in the U.S. and worldwide. Data is collected monthly from a U.S. representative sample, adding over 60,000 traveling households annually, and is used daily by leading travel organizations and their strategic planning groups. DK SHIFFLET is an MMGY Global company.   

About INRIX     

Founded in 2004, INRIX pioneered intelligent mobility solutions by transforming big data from connected devices and vehicles into mobility insights. This revolutionary approach enabled INRIX to become one of the leading providers of data and analytics into how people move. By empowering cities, businesses, and people with valuable insights, INRIX is helping to make the world smarter, safer, and greener. With partners and solutions spanning across the entire mobility ecosystem, INRIX is uniquely positioned at the intersection of technology and transportation – whether it’s keeping road users safe, improving traffic signal timing to reduce delay and greenhouse gasses, optimizing last mile delivery, or helping uncover market insights. Learn more at INRIX.com.   

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Business Insider

Tesla owners share their best tips for taking an EV on a road trip

Posted: August 19, 2023 | Last updated: August 19, 2023

• Tesla owners and a renter described their experience taking the EV on cross-country road trips.
• Some Tesla owners highlighted the benefits of taking the EV on long trips
• Take a look at some of their tips for taking a Tesla on a road trip.

While some EV owners have shared horror stories about taking an electric car on a road trip, some Tesla owners say those drivers probably just haven't mastered the learning curve yet.

Eight Tesla veterans and a first-time Tesla renter shared some tips on how to execute a successful EV road trip in a series of conversations with Insider — from avoiding certain routes to planning ahead and getting creative on the road.

Range anxiety and a lack of charging infrastructure are key hurdles when it comes to EV adoption, but Tesla owners say it's possible to ditch concerns about charging on the road and even lean into some of the benefits of taking an electric car across the country, including saving on gas and enjoying Tesla amenities like Autopilot . Still, some drivers say road trips in a Tesla can be a major headache.

Here's what Tesla owners say about their experiences taking the car on a long road trip.

Most people's first road trip can be anxiety-ridden, but learn to trust the car, owners said.

Many Tesla owners said it's common to feel anxious on your first EV road trip.

"After the first outbound trip when I was being very careful and charging to a higher percentage than necessary at each stop, I learned to trust what my Tesla was telling me about the state of charge, my expected range, and that there were chargers along the way," Dennis Duncan, a Model Y owner who has taken his EV on cross-country trips, including on an annual trip from Washington state to Montana, told Insider.

It's best to start out with smaller trips and stay near interstates, drivers said.

"Start somewhere within 200 miles of your origin and become accustomed to the range and how your driving impacts it," said Ken Vizena, a Model Y owner who has taken his vehicle on numerous cross-country trips. "Don't start off driving cross country. Start off with medium trips in hugely populated areas."

Vizena said it's important to pay attention to not only how many charging stations are along your route, but also where they are located along the path. He said new Tesla owners should ask themselves several questions before they set off on a road trip with their EV, namely: How far off course will the chargers take you? Are they located in areas where you would feel safe waiting?

Most Tesla owners agree the Supercharger network is a major advantage.

Tesla has spent over a decade building out more than 20,000 Superchargers in North America, earning it the region's largest network of roadside fast chargers. Moreover, Superchargers are widely regarded as more reliable and easy to use than other networks' chargers. Non-Tesla EV owners rely on a shakier patchwork of public chargers , which can be difficult to find and are plagued by reliability issues .

"I couldn't even imagine being with another car company and relying on third-party chargers," Jonathan Baalke, a Model 3 owner in Kentucky who says he drives over 150 miles a day for work, previously told Insider. "It's hard to have range anxiety when you have access to Tesla's network, but if I was with any other brand's cars, I would definitely have some concerns."

More recently, the EV company has said it plans to open some of its exclusive Supercharger network to non-Tesla EV companies like Ford and General Motors .

Some Tesla owners said charging on your road trip isn't too bad if you use it as a natural break to eat lunch or stretch your legs — so long as you're at a Supercharger.

"I stop to charge about every four hours," David Craig, a Model S owner who recently took his Tesla on a 8,500-mile road trip, said. "It's just a natural stopping point. Even if you were driving a traditional car you'd want to take breaks and fuel up. I plug it in at a Supercharger and usually there's a restaurant nearby where I grab lunch."

A Supercharger can recharge a Tesla with up to 200 miles of range in 15 minutes, according to the company's website . A Model 3 standard vehicle delivers an estimated range of about 333 miles, according to Tesla. And the carmaker's longest-range vehicle, the Model S, can deliver an estimated range of up to 405 miles, the company says.

Some Tesla owners said it's best to plan where you will charge on the trip well in advance.

"It requires a lot of planning to take a road trip with an EV," Leonard Zuga, a Model Y owner who plans to take his vehicle on a trip from Ohio to Florida, told Insider. "I use multiple systems, including Tesla's onboard system. I know what hotels and Superchargers I will use before we've even started packing. Every hotel I select is within a few minutes of a Supercharger. If you do not like planning ahead you won't do well as an EV owner."

Zuga said he's using ChatGPT, and several charge-planning applications, including EV Trip Optimizer and PlugShare , to plan his trip to Florida in addition to the car's internal navigation system. It will be the longest road trip he's taken yet with the vehicle.

Vizena said he liked to plan ahead using a site called A Better Route Planner .

Other Tesla owners said they feel comfortable relying solely on the car's internal navigation system.

Brian Loughman, a Model 3 owner, said he typically relies solely on the internal navigation system, which incorporates charging sites into the journey and alerts drivers to which charging sites it predicts will be most efficient and which ones are busier. It's a favorite feature among Tesla owners.

"Hop in the car while connected to your home charger and program the full route into the car," Loughman told Insider over email. "It will tell you where to stop, how low your battery will be when you get there, and how many minutes you'll need to charge before continuing on your route."

Though, sometimes the internal navigation system can lead you astray, some Tesla owners said.

"It took me into an Indian reservation, and the path ended at a gate that said, 'Your GPS is wrong, turn around,'" Vizena told Insider of one of his road trips from Houston, Texas, to Los Angeles. "I had to backtrack to the Supercharger 40 miles away and ignore the built-in map."

Some rural routes you might want to avoid altogether, some Tesla owners said.

Vizena told Insider he's avoided taking his Tesla on trips to more rural states like Idaho or Montana. Zuga and Ken Becker, a Model 3 owner, said when they drove through Ohio Superchargers were few and far between. And Duncan said there's some road trips he's had to put off until Tesla's charging network grows more.

William Scholtz, who rented a Model 3 from Hertz for a cross-country, monthlong trip, said he and his wife weren't able to go to all the places they'd anticipated because they were constrained by a lack of charging options.

"We planned to visit a friend who farms near Sylvia, Kansas, but it was impossible," Scholtz said. "There are simply no charging stations of any kind that would bring us to his farm and back."

Scholtz said the couple attempted to trickle-charge at another point in their journey, but it took too long.

Even so, It's not the end of the world if you can't find a Supercharger.

If you have the patience, you can get by with trickle-charging, some Tesla owners said.

Zuga said he likes to charge his Tesla at RV outlets when he camps. Becker said it makes sense to trickle-charge or use a slower, Level 1 charger, if you're staying in one place for a while.

 A trickle charge can take up to 50 hours or more to bring an EV from empty to 80% of capacity, while a Level 2 charger can do so in four to 10 hours, according to the Department of Transportation.

Insider previously reported that a Model Y owner used a trickle-charge to visit a remote monument in California. "It was only a standard 120V outlet, so we would be trickle charging , not supercharging, but that was sufficient to more than replace, overnight, whatever energy we used on our daily excursions around the Monument," the Model Y owner, Kathleen Goforth said in a blog post about her road trip.

Don't be in too much of a hurry; just enjoy the journey, some Tesla owners said.

"If you're in a major hurry to get to your destination an EV might not be the best idea," Scholtz said. "It will take longer to charge than filling up your tank. It will take time to find chargers on your route, and sometimes those chargers take you off a direct route. Also, if you're driving too fast that will only decrease your range. "

There are also some perks to taking a Tesla on a road trip. Owners said they have fewer worries about maintenance issues on long trips.

"A lot more can fail on an internal combustion engine," Craig said. "Your biggest worry with a Tesla is that you'll get a flat tire.

Driving a Tesla means no more oil changes, and an EV requires less upkeep overall, according to data from Consumer Reports . 

"With an ICE vehicle there is anxiety about a variety of mechanical things like overheating, engine problems of many kinds, or brake burnout going down major grades or in mountain driving," Duncan said. "A Tesla won't overheat and actually recharges your battery going downhill instead of overheating and wearing out your brakes."

Though, Teslas aren't fully immune to breaks. Vizena said he had to spend an entire road trip with a broken air conditioner in his Tesla and showed a picture where the internal temperature in his car reached 99 degrees.

Tesla owners also enjoy not having to spend money on gas during long road trips.

As of July, the average electric car owner could save between $1,000 to $1,200 per year in fuel costs as compared to using an EV charger, according to Consumer Reports. The publication found that EV owners will continue to save money in overall operating and maintenance costs as long as the price for gasoline remains above 50 cents per gallon.

"It's hard to explain the glee of driving by a gas station knowing you don't have to worry about the prices anymore," Nelson Jackson, a Model S owner, previously told Insider.

The car can also be ideal for camping, one owner said.

Craig said he used Tesla's Camp Mode  to sleep in his Model S during his 19-day road trip.

The feature lets the car keep a steady temperature in the cabin, as well as proper airflow. You can also listen to music, stream television, turn on lights, or charge devices while the vehicle is in the mode. The  feature , which was introduced in 2021, uses significantly less energy and even has a video of a crackling fire.

It is one of many specialized Tesla features , including Dog Mode and Sentry Mode.

"With a traditional car you'd have to turn it off, it would get cold and you have to turn it back on," Craig said. "In my Tesla, the temperature stays perfect and I'm comfortable all night long."

Autopilot and Tesla's Full Self-Driving beta feature are also a major plus for relaxing on the road, some drivers said.

All Tesla models are equipped with the Autopilot feature, which enables a car to steer, accelerate, and brake automatically within its lane. The function does not replace the role of a driver, but is intended to make driving easier and cut down on accidents. Some drivers can also opt into Tesla's Full Self-Driving software, a beta feature that costs $15,000 — or $199 per month — and allows the vehicle to change lanes, as well as recognize stop lights and stop signs.

Earlier this year, Model S owner Tim Heckman told Insider the driver assist features were a "lifesaver" on his 6,392-mile road trip.

"It can be a huge cognitive relief. Long trips can take a mental toll," Heckman said at the time, noting that he'sd used Autopilot on previous road trips and discovered he could drive further without getting tired.

Zuga told Insider Autopilot is one of several features that he feels make road trips less stressful and safer in a Tesla.

"Driving that car is a lot less tiring than driving a gas vehicle because of all of the extra driver features like the cameras all around the car and Autopilot," Zuga said. "I can put the blinker on and get a good look of the whole left side and behind and when I'm slowing down and regenerative braking kicks in and you know your tailights are on. It just gives you better situational awareness."

But, not everyone is sold on the features. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating Autopilot  and its potential connection to several accidents and the California Department of Motor Vehicles has  accused the company  of falsely advertising its Autopilot and FSD features.

Despite the perks, some road trippers say they'd still rather stick to a traditional vehicle.

Scholtz said he wasn't fully sold on buying a Tesla after he rented one through Hertz for his road trip. He said his experience renting the EV went downhill fast when he had to take it to more rural areas and he faced a lot of stress with the vehicle's range, as well as finding chargers along his route.

"It was nail biting," Scholtz said, adding that while he thinks the Model 3 is a great car it doesn't fit his lifestyle.

"I still prefer my F-150 with its 40 gallon tank that gives me a 700 miles range."

Tesla did not respond to a request for comment ahead of publication.

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AAA forecasts nearly 44M travelers for Memorial Day weekend: See best times to travel

Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, which means people will be flooding highways and airports this weekend looking to get away for some rest and relaxation.

The American Automobile Association is projecting nearly 44 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home over the Memorial Day holiday travel period, which is defined by the organization as the five-day period from Thursday, May 23 to Monday, May 27.

"We haven't seen Memorial Day weekend travel numbers like these in almost 20 years," said Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel, in a news release. "We're projecting an additional one million travelers this holiday weekend compared to 2019, which not only means we're exceeding pre-pandemic levels but also signals a very busy summer travel season ahead."

The organization projects over 38 million people will travel by car over Memorial Day weekend, over 3.5 million will travel by air and nearly 2 million will travel by other modes of transportation, including buses, cruises and trains.

The 38 million drivers is the highest number for Memorial Day since AAA began tracking data in 2000 and is up 4% compared to last year. The 3.5 million air travelers is an increase of nearly 5% over last year and, according to AAA, this will be the most crowded Memorial Day weekend at airports since 2005.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

When is Memorial Day?: Here's when the holiday falls and what to know about its history.

Best, worst times to travel for Memorial Day weekend

Drivers leaving Thursday or Friday should hit the road early to avoid mixing with commuters, AAA said, citing data from transportation data and insights provider INRIX. Drivers going back home Sunday or Monday should avoid the afternoon hours when return trips will peak.

“Travel times are expected to be up to 90% longer than normal. Travelers should stay up to date on traffic apps, 511 services, and local news stations to avoid sitting in traffic longer than necessary,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX, in the news release.

Here's a breakdown of the best and worst times to travel by car depending on which day you are traveling:

Thursday, May 23

• Best travel time: Before 11 a.m. and after 7 p.m.
• Worst travel time: Between noon and 6 p.m.

Friday, May 24

• Best travel time: Before 11 a.m. and after 8 p.m.
• Worst travel time: Between noon and 7 p.m.

Saturday, May 25

• Best travel time: Before 1 p.m. and after 6 p.m.
• Worst travel time: Between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.

Sunday, May 26

• Best travel time: Before 1 p.m.
• Worst travel time: Between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Monday, May 27

• Best travel time: After 7 p.m.

Gas prices continue to decrease heading into Memorial Day weekend

According to AAA, the national average for a gallon of gasoline has fallen four cents since last week, to $3.60. The primary reasons are weak domestic demand and oil costs below $80 a barrel, according to the organization.

“Barring some unforeseen event, this pokey drop in pump prices is not likely to change anytime soon,” said Andrew Gross, AAA spokesperson, in a news release. “There are seven states with county gas averages at less than $3 a gallon. This trend will likely accelerate as more gas outlets east of the Rockies drop their prices.”

This Memorial Day weekend, drivers can expect similar gas prices as last year when the national average was about $3.57.

"Pump prices rose this spring but have held somewhat steady in recent weeks," AAA said in the news release, while also noting that prices may creep higher as the summer driving season gets underway.

The wildcard remains the cost of oil, according to the organization, and unlike last year, there are now two wars – in the Middle East and Ukraine – that could roil the oil market.

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X  @GabeHauari  or email him at [email protected].