best car rental for road trip usa

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Best Car Rental Companies of 2024

Are you planning a vacation and looking for a rental car? With so many car rental company options, it can be difficult to choose. When selecting one, keep in mind pricing, vehicle availability, as well as rental, insurance, and location options. To help make this choice easier, we’ve researched the Best Car Rental Companies, narrowing our picks to six that offer different options across the country.

If you have a larger family, you’ll probably want a rental company that offers larger vehicles like SUVs. You might also need a company that has flexible rental options, allowing you to return your vehicle early or extend your rental period. Life is unpredictable, so having that flexibility can give you peace of mind.

If you have a smaller family or are traveling alone, you might want to opt for a smaller or faster rental car. It also might be more convenient for you to choose a company that has locations across the country.

Read on for all of our picks for the Best Car Rental Companies so you can choose the one that best fits your needs.

Table of Contents

• Best Car Rental Companies
• Things To Consider When Choosing
• Ways To Save

Has a large variety of vehicles to choose from

Provides several add-on options, including insurance coverage

Offers savings for customers who pay in full upon booking

Has most expensive average cost out of all companies on our list

Charges per-day fee for additional drivers

Despite Hertz being the most expensive company on our list, it offers many different vehicles and add-on options, which help earn it the top spot. If you’re looking for a company that offers a loyalty program, insurance and other add-ons, and a large fleet of vehicles, this is the company for you.

Let’s start with the booking process: The company’s website is extremely understandable and easy to navigate, making finding a vehicle that much easier. Once you put in the dates you need, you’ll see several vehicle options and will have the opportunity to save money by paying in full upon booking. You’ll then have the option to add on the following:

• Loss damage waiver coverage
• Accident liability coverage
• Personal accident coverage with medical expenses
• Infant seat, child seat, or booster seat

You can also join the company’s free loyalty program: Hertz Gold Plus Rewards. This program, among other perks, will allow you to skip going to the counter during pickup and instead go straight to your rental. You can also use the loyalty program to earn points for free rental days and vehicle upgrades. If you own a small- to mid-sized business, you can earn rewards with the free Hertz Business Rewards program. The program can help you save money on rental rates, get discounted vehicle protection, earn free rental day credits, and add an additional driver for free.

The only downside to going with Hertz is that you may end up paying more than you would with other companies, especially those on this list. However, with the add-ons and vehicles that Hertz offers, along with the individual and business loyalty programs, the extra cost might be worth it. Whether you’re a family going on a vacation or an individual going on a business trip, Hertz would be a solid choice.

Cheapest average rates

Has a large variety of vehicle classes

Offers many insurance coverage options

Offers very few locations outside of airports

Has poor customer reviews

Alamo offers the best average rates out of the companies in this list, so as a budget pick, Alamo is the way to go. Compared to the top, and most expensive, company Hertz, Alamo’s rates for both sedans and SUVs are at or under half the cost.

Alamo also almost exclusively covers airports across the nation, making it the convenient option when traveling. It has more than 200 locations spanning all 50 states plus Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. The company also offers ski rack and winter tire add-ons, which may be a great option for those traveling to snowy areas.

Another benefit to going with Alamo is the insurance products you can add on. For U.S. customers, these include:

• Collision Damage Waiver
• Supplemental Liability Protection
• Personal Effects Insurance
• Roadside Plus
• Deductible Protection
• International Third Party Insurance
• Master Cover

However, Alamo doesn’t have the best customer reviews. Many people have complained about the company’s requirement of having a credit card to pick up a rental vehicle. Others have complained about the quality of customer service. These are all things you should keep in mind when choosing a rental car company.

National Car Rental  »

Offers a comprehensive business rental program

Has locations worldwide

Offers delivery of luxury vehicles to private airports

Provides exotic luxury and sports cars

Can’t save money by paying for the rental upon booking

Offers fewer coverage options

If you’re looking for a consistent rental car company for your business, National Car Rental is a solid choice. It offers a business car rental program that you can access immediately. Some of the benefits include:

• Access to more than 1 million vehicles
• Locations in more than 90 countries that will honor business rates
• Dedicated account manager
• Five percent discount on base rates

A business’s employees can also sign up for an Emerald Club Membership for free, which will provide them with other benefits like being able to skip the counter and earn points for free rental days. The company also offers FBO Delivery Service, which delivers luxury vehicles to private airports. However, National Car Rental doesn’t offer as many vehicle types as other companies. It also only offers four insurance coverage options, with no unique features standing out. It does offer one unique add-on: CO2 offset, which is great for environmentally conscious drivers. Other add-ons are more typical, including SiriusXM, GPS devices, and booster seats.

The lack of add-ons and comprehensive coverage options might not be a big deal for many businesses, though. Businesses will typically have insurance policies in place and won’t need additional insurance add-ons when only using rental cars for business trips.

Can earn airline miles and hotel points with loyalty program

Offers many different deals to customers

Has locations across the country

Less luxury and electric model availability

Doesn’t offer as many insurance options as other companies

With the second lowest average rates out of our listed companies, Budget is a low cost option with great features for customers, including its Fastbreak Program. Budget might not be as budget friendly compared to other companies out there, but it does offer great features for customers, including its Fastbreak Program. The free program will give you the ability to pick up and drop off your vehicle without stopping at the front desk. Even though this is typically offered with other loyalty programs, Budget also partners with many companies to offer airline and hotel points.

For hotel points, Budget is partnered with Best Western Rewards, Choice Privileges, and Wyndham Rewards. With Best Western Rewards and Choice Privileges, you can earn 1,000 points for each qualifying rental. You can also receive discounts when using your Best Western Rewards/Budget Customer Discount or Choice Privileges Budget Customer Discount number. With Wyndham Rewards, you’ll earn 100 points per day of your qualifying rental, along with other discounts when using your rewards number.

You can also earn airline points with some companies’ programs, including British Airways Executive Club, Emirates Skywards, FRONTIER Miles, Southwest Rapid Rewards, and United MileagePlus. With British Airways, you’ll earn one Avios point for each $1 you spend on a rental car. With other companies, like United, you can earn a specific number of points per rental based on your membership tier with the airline.

However, while Budget’s prices are low and its loyalty program and travel partnerships comprehensive, it may not boast the same comprehensive rental insurance or luxury vehicle selection as other rental companies.

Enterprise  »

Offers more than a dozen luxury car classes

Has a “car finder” option to help narrow your choices

Is one of the cheapest options on our list

Offers only four insurance coverage options

Allows only prepayment for fuel at airport locations

Not only is Enterprise on the cheaper side, but it also offers a wide range of luxury vehicle options. With more than one dozen classes to choose from, some of the options include the Audi A5 Sportback, Porsche 911, and Mercedes Benz E-Class vehicles. But so many choices can be overwhelming, which is why Enterprise has a “car finder” option to help you narrow them down.

If you own a business, you can use Enterprise’s delivery service at private airports. This service offers a large variety of luxury vehicles, which can be delivered to you when you land, making traveling for business more convenient.

However, the company doesn’t offer many insurance coverage options, and you can only prepay for your fuel at airport locations. Enterprise also doesn’t offer any discounts for paying when you book. One less typical feature it does offer is a Greenhouse Gas Emissions Offset, which is the same feature that National Car Rental offers.

Locations in 175 countries and territories worldwide

Rewards program for repeat customers

Offers unique protection and insurance options

Doesn’t offer as many luxury or sport vehicles as other companies

If you want to remain loyal to a single car rental company and build points while traveling the world, Avis is the top choice. With locations in all 50 states plus Washington, D.C., and 175 countries and territories worldwide, Avis vehicles and services will likely be available wherever in the world you travel.

Avis offers a strong rewards system offering points on rentals and accessories and expedited service at the base level to vehicle class upgrades and dedicated service lines. The company’s website also hosts an entire page dedicated to coupons and sales, for additional savings.

Avis also offers some unique add-on features and coverage options, including:

• Mobile Wi-Fi: Offers customers the ability to connect up to five devices while on-the-go
• Avis e-Toll: Allows customers to go through tolls without cash or waiting in line
• Emergency Sickness Plan: Provides international visitors with coverage for potential medical expenses while in the U.S. 

Despite all of this, if you’re looking for a large fleet of luxury or sport vehicles, Avis might not be the best option. When comparing it to a company like Hertz, Avis’ few available options pale in comparison. Avis also has a substantial number of negative reviews, earning a 1.2 out of 5 rating on the customer review website Trustpilot.

Bottom Line

Just because a company is the cheapest option doesn’t mean it’s the best option for you, which is illustrated in our list here. With so many companies to choose from, it’s important to narrow down the features and add-ons that are important to you.

If you would like a convenient option while traveling by plane, then Alamo might be a good choice, as it almost exclusively covers airports. If you’re solely looking for the cheapest option, then Avis might be the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a company that offers many insurance and add-on options, a business program, and a free loyalty program, then Hertz is a good option.

Things To Consider When Choosing a Car Rental Company

Reputation and customer reviews.

You’ll want to make sure you look at a company’s reviews, whether on Google, Yelp, or Facebook. You can also check the Better Business Bureau’s website to see if the company has accreditation, along with any complaints filed with the BBB and how they were resolved.

If a company has many complaints or bad reviews, this might be a red flag. “Real experiences from other customers can be very insightful,” said Mike Davison, founder of Superbike Newbie, a motorcycle blog.

Vehicle Selection and Availability

If you’re traveling alone, it may not be important for a company to offer an SUV. However, if you have a larger family, you’ll need a company that has large-sized vehicles. Some companies also cater more to businesses rather than individuals.

And if you’re looking for more of a luxury vacation, there are rental car companies that specialize in renting out luxury vehicles. One of the first decisions you should make, either way, is what type of rental car you need.

Pricing and Rental Rates

*For these calculations, large sedans, such as Chevrolet Malibus and Toyota Camrys, were used, as well as the pay later option with no add-ons. **For these calculations, full-size SUVs, such as Chevrolet Tahoes and GMC Yukons, were used, as well as the pay later option with no add-ons.

When looking for a car rental company, pricing is a major factor. Of the companies on this list, Alamo and Budget are the most budget friendly picks, on average. With average weekly rates around $531, these two companies offer base rates at almost half Hertz’s average cost of $1,078.91.

To calculate costs, we chose to compare the rates of a specific sedan and SUV model that each of our top companies carried. The same dates and type of rental were plugged in for each company to view the most accurate cost per day. Large vehicle models like SUVs will almost always cost more than standard vehicles, such as a standard to full-size sedan, but sometimes the larger vehicle is necessary when traveling with extra luggage, belongings, or people. The average daily and weekly costs per company reflect the cost variance among vehicle models, rental time, and demand.

Keep in mind these prices don’t include any add-ons, insurance options, taxes, or fees. When booking a rental car, you’ll see a base cost for the car, as well as taxes, fees, and other costs that will all factor into the final cost.

Some companies also offer pay-now options, which can significantly decrease the amount you’ll have to spend on your rental car – sometimes saving you hundreds of dollars.

Even though Alamo and Budget add up as the cheapest options, it doesn’t mean those are outright the best rental companies for you. Keep other factors in mind when choosing a rental car company.

Coverage and Insurance Options

Your car insurance policy might cover rental cars, but if it doesn’t, you’ll want to see what each rental car company offers.

“Checking if the company has comprehensive insurance coverage is also essential for protection against the unexpected, and if you already have car insurance, you should learn what your policy covers before renting a car,” said Erin Kemp, a consumer advocate for Bumper, an all-in-one site where you can search a vehicle’s history and reports.

Some rental car companies offer rental car insurance, which can cover the following:

• Damages or injuries sustained while driving (liability)
• Damages to the rental car, including from vandalism and/or theft (loss/collision damage waiver)
• Injuries sustained by yourself or passengers (personal accident insurance)
• Personal items that are stolen (personal effects coverage)

Rental Locations and Convenience

If you’re flying in from out of town, you’ll most likely want to choose a company that has an airport location, like Hertz or Alamo. This will be especially convenient if you’re returning to the same airport for your flight home.

However, if you want to take a road trip across the country, it might be helpful to use a rental car company that has many locations. For example, Enterprise has more than 4,100 locations across the U.S., so this might be a better option than National Car Rental, which has 307 locations.

Flexibility in Rental Terms and Conditions

If you have a big family or have to take an unexpected trip, you might want to go with a company that offers flexible terms and conditions. Avis, for example, offers monthly and long-term rates. With this option, called Avis Flex, you can benefit from some of the following:

• Rent for longer periods and save money
• Rent up to 11 months at one time
• Book a one-month, one-way rental
• Get discounted loss damage waiver

Budget is another company that offers monthly or long-term rentals, which can save you money.

Ways To Save On a Rental Car

Based on our research, renting a car can cost anywhere from around $50 per day to over $100. Besides shopping around for the best rate amongst rental car companies, which is arguably the best and first step you should take in your booking decision, there are a number of other ways you can save on rental car costs.

Rental car prices fluctuate based on demand. This can include the season as well as the inventory of cars available. It’s usually wise to book in advance of your trip by about one month. The situation changes, however, if you’re searching for a specific luxury car or one that can accommodate a larger group as with more specifications comes less flexibility and less inventory availability. For more complex booking needs, you may want to begin your search three to six months in advance.

You may be eligible for rental car savings with current memberships you hold. In addition to some credit card perks, AAA members may qualify for percent discounts, free additional driver, and free child car seat with Hertz, plus skip the line with Hertz Gold Plus Rewards. Depending on vehicle choice and location, AARP membership holders may be eligible for percent discounts across several car rental companies, including Budget and Avis. USAA members have the best options, with up to 35% off a rental, fee waivers for young drivers and additional drivers, and included damage liability.

While it may be tempting to alternate driving on a road trip, sticking to one driver (the primary renter) is often the most cost effective. For example, Hertz reports a $13.50 per day fee for each additional driver. Enterprise reports a standard $15 per day fee per extra driver.

You may want to consider skipping the insurance offered by the rental company if your personal auto insurance already covers rentals. If you have a U.S. auto insurance policy that includes collision, comprehensive, and liability coverage, it will likely also cover you if your rental car is damaged in an accident . It’s important to check with your insurance provider first before making a decision.

How We Chose the Best Car Rental Companies

At U.S. News 360 Reviews, our contributor Sierra Campbell researched car rental companies, including speaking to experts on the topic. We then narrowed down selections with more thorough research, considering price, client reviews, selection and availability of vehicles, car rental locations, and other factors.

Overall, we found that a car rental company offers much more than just a vehicle, and your decision should not only depend on the type of vehicle you want to drive, but also the convenience of pickup and drop-off, overall cost, available add-ons, and any perks and programs associated with the company.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

Our contributors and editors have years of experience researching, testing, and reviewing products. Sierra Campbell, the author of this piece and a contributor to 360 Reviews, has years of experience in writing and editing pages on many topics, including car rental companies. She also has experience with booking rental cars for family members and herself. She has contributed to several online publications, including U.S. News, ConsumerAffairs, and others.

Car Rental Companies FAQ

There aren’t many hidden fees, but there are add-on options that can raise the price of your rental, which can include:

• Insurance package
• Upgrade charge
• Damage charges
• Charges for extra rental days or changing times and dates
• Administrative and processing fees
• Young driver, senior driver, or one-way trip charges
• Fuel charges
• Toll charges
• Tax charges

When it comes to damages, you’ll want to make sure the car doesn’t have any damage before leaving with it. “Spotting any existing damage before hitting the road can save you from unwelcome charges at drop-off,” said Erin Kemp, a consumer advocate for Bumper, a site that provides vehicle information like specifications, safety ratings, and vehicle history reports.

If you need a rental car, you can make a reservation online or at a physical location if available. But typically you can save money on your rental if you book online in advance.

You have to be at least 21 years old to rent a car from most rental car companies. However, in New York and Michigan, you can rent a car beginning at age 18. Keep in mind that if you’re under 25 years old, there will be a surcharge fee added to your bill for each day you have the rental car.

Typically, you’ll be required to bring these documents when picking up a rental vehicle:

• Valid driver’s license
• Receipt or email confirmation that you received from the rental car company
• Valid major credit card that can cover the security deposit amount
• Proof of car insurance (if you don’t add coverage)

Each company will require different documents, which is why you’ll want to check with the company before picking up your vehicle.

If you want to extend your vehicle rental before your trip has started, you should contact the rental car company. This will likely change your full cost, and the trip will probably need to be rebooked at a higher rate instead of an extra charge just being added on.

If you wait until you pick up the vehicle, staff at the rental car company can let you know if you can extend your rental period or if you’ll need to drop off your vehicle at the end of your current reservation and then pick up a different vehicle. If you can extend your reservation, you’ll get what’s called a “last-minute rate,” which is typically a higher cost than when you book ahead of time.

The same is true if you try to extend your rental once you have the car. You’ll need to contact the car rental company to make sure you can extend the rental period with the current car you have. If so, you’ll be charged the last-minute rate.

If you have an accident in your rental car, there are a few things you should do immediately:

• Check to make sure no one is injured.
• Dial 911 if necessary. 
• Move to a safe location, such as if you’re in the middle of a roadway.
• Get the contact information of the other driver, including insurance information.

You’ll then want to document the accident by taking photos and talking to any potential witnesses, if there are any. Be sure you also get contact information from any witnesses. You’ll need to contact your insurance company along with the rental car company. Sometimes your insurance will help cover some of the cost, depending on your policy. Many rental car companies also offer a loss damage waiver for an extra cost that would prevent you from being responsible for any damage done to the vehicle. This is something you may want to consider for peace of mind.

If your rental car breaks down, some rental car companies, such as Enterprise, have Roadside Assistance available. If your rental car company doesn’t offer that, your insurance company might.

If you return your rental car early, most of the time you won’t receive any money back and will still be charged for the full rental period. However, you shouldn’t be charged any extra fees for returning a car early. Check the company’s early return policy if you expect your trip to be cut short.

This can depend on the car rental company you choose. Car rental companies will usually charge a fee for returning a vehicle to a different location than what’s in the reservation. You should always check the company’s policy.

About Our Team

Sierra Campbell

Contributor

Rachel Hisle

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

The best cars to rent for every kind of road trip

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

One of the not-necessarily unpredictable but perhaps unintended consequences of the coronavirus pandemic is the rediscovery of the great American road trip.

After borders around the world closed for foreign visitors, Americans who typically crossed oceans for their big vacations were forced to look for travel opportunities closer to home.

Fortunately, we live in one of the most spectacular countries on earth, with wide-open spaces, awe-inspiring scenery, a national park system that is the envy of the world and a truly impressive variety of regional culture and cuisine -- made accessible thanks in no small part to the vast system of interstate highways constructed in the 20th century.

With the pandemic forcing hundreds of thousands of workers out of their cubicles and back into their home offices, people hit the road in droves, eager to explore this beautiful land of ours. RV rentals became a hot commodity, with some even ditching their homes to live on the road full-time.

International travel may be making its comeback this summer, but for plenty of Americans, the good old-fashioned road trip -- with its promise of the open road and the discovery of someplace new -- is calling.

But what's a road trip without a suitable car ? With so many automobiles to choose from for your next adventure, we wanted to highlight some of the very best options for any type of road trip.

For a coastal or island drive: Ford Mustang

Picture yourself driving down the Pacific Coast Highway in California or along the ocean in Hawaii , top-down, music turned up. It's hard not to see yourself driving a Mustang. Ford's pony car is one of the most emblematic symbols of Americana ever to exist. Conceived in the 1960s, it instantly became a hit for anyone looking for an affordable car went fast and turned a lot of heads in the process. The Mustangs of the past have become classics, but today's version is a thoroughly modern vehicle that's hard to beat for good-weather cruising.

The standard Mustang is no slouch: It comes equipped with a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 310 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque. But if you really want to have fun carving the curves of a long and winding coastal highway, splurge for the GT convertible, which comes with a 5.0-liter V8 producing 460 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque, which is sure to put a smile on your sun-kissed face.

For a cross-country adventure: Volvo XC90

If you're setting out on a cross-country road trip, comfort is key. You'll want a vehicle that's quiet, efficient, spacious, equipped with enough creature comforts to keep you and your companions entertained, isn't bothered by the wide range of pavement quality we have in this country and, perhaps most importantly of all, has comfortable seats.

Volvo's flagship SUV, the XC90, has all of that and more. It's roomy enough for you and your friends or family -- and all your things. Plus, it comes packed to the gills with the latest in automotive technology including a touchscreen-based entertainment system and top-notch stereo systems. Its solid build quality guarantees you'll have a comfortable ride, even over the pothole-ridden roads found in parts of the country (looking at you, upper Midwest ). And, last but certainly not least, the Swedish automaker is known for producing arguably the best seats in the automotive industry -- on some trim levels, you can even opt for seats that massage you as you drive.

For snowy roads: Audi A4 Allroad

If you're road-tripping in the winter -- or somewhere that sees snow almost year-round -- you're going to want a vehicle that's as sure-footed in the snow and slush as it is on dry pavement. The Audi A4 Allroad is a lifted version of its A4 Avant station wagon that offers extra inches of ground clearance, perfect for snowy roadways. But the main feature that make this elevated wagon a force to be reckoned with in the snow is its standard Quattro all-wheel-drive system, which allows the car to plod through rain, snow and slush with ease. (Of course, if you're driving on mountain roads with deep, heavy snow we'd recommend fitting the tires -- of any vehicle -- with chains for extra confidence.)

And, since this is more or less a station wagon, you'll have extra room for everyone and their things married with the driving dynamics of a car. The Allroad's four-cylinder turbocharged engine means you won't be stopping too often for gas, either.

For tackling all types of terrain: Jeep Wrangler

You can't do much better than a Jeep Wrangler if you're looking for a vehicle that will go anywhere and do (just about) anything. This iconic American truck comes in two- and four-door configurations and offers such options as a removable roof and doors for serious off-roading. The Wrangler comes with a true 4x4 four-wheel-drive system and is equipped with large tires and a high suspension which allows it to tackle rocks and other terrains with aplomb. Its generous ground clearance allows the car to ford through 30 inches of water -- in case your adventure brings you across rivers or streams.

If you're getting off the interstate and want to explore some of the landscape that can't be accessed by any old car, you can't go wrong with the Wrangler.

For national-park hopping: Jeep Grand Cherokee

There's another Jeep on this list -- and for good reason. Its venerable Grand Cherokee has been the brand's standard-bearer for years, combining the best of Jeep's inherent offroad abilities with creature comforts you'd expect from a luxury SUV. If you think your road trip will combine long stints on the highway with some offroading (perhaps at one or several national parks , for example), the Grand Cherokee is the perfect vehicle to choose.

It delivers a smooth ride on the road along with plenty of technology and other comforts that make it easy to spend a lot of time in it, but also can handle anything that comes its way once you veer off the pavement.

Use the right credit card for your rental

When renting a vehicle , it's important to make sure you are covered in case you get into an accident. Damage waivers are typically available to purchase from your rental company at a cost of about $10 to $20 per day, but some credit cards , including the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card and Chase Sapphire Reserve® offer a primary damage waiver in case of damage or theft. Since the insurance is primary, you won't have to file a claim with your personal car insurance if there's damage to your car. You won't have to pay a hefty deductible or be subject to rate changes, but be aware that coverage is only valid on rentals of 31 days or less.

Bottom line

Road trips will continue to be a big part of the way Americans travel for the foreseeable future. Once you decide where you're going and what type of road trip you'll be embarking on, finding the right vehicle for the trip is the next step.

Just promise us you'll take our advice on how to skip the line at the rental car agency .

What are you looking for?

10 best car rentals in the usa in 2024 [for all budgets].

Whether you're embarking on a full cross-country road trip or just exploring one of the many large cities, having your own vehicle is essential for making the most out of your time in the United States of America! 

Trust us ... we know!

We spent more than 3 months driving the Western states of the USA (+ Alaska) and had an epic time.

The freedom of your own car or camper is unparalleled.

If you aren't opting to rent a motorhome in the US , hiring a car is your next best option to ensure you have the freedom to get out onto the open road and plan your own itinerary. 

With endless options available to you, finding the best car rental company can seem like a daunting task.

That's why we have compiled this guide to help you navigate the world of car rentals in the US. 

Whether you're after affordability, style or convenience , our guide should help you narrow down your searches and guarantee you a positive experience from what we believe to be the best car rental companies in the United States.

Let's get into it!

Travellerspoint

How to book your chosen rental

With over 4000 car rental agencies operating in the US, you might be wondering where on earth you start to try and narrow down the options. 

We always start our search for a car rental on Discover Cars ! 

Discover Cars is an awesome website that allows you to enter your chosen dates and pick-up location, and see heaps of cars that are available to you from tons of trusted rental companies. 

You can then use their handy filters to narrow down your searches even further! Allowing you to filter by:

• Make and model
• And many more! 

By booking with Discover Cars you can put your mind at ease knowing you're fully protected and have their incredible 24/7 customer service team on hand for any query you might have. 

They also have flexible cancellation policies, no hidden fees and a price match guarantee so you know you're getting the best price possible. 

We've used them a bunch of times to get the best car rental prices around the world, so can vouch for their ease of use and truly unbeatable prices!

1. Budget - Our top pick for car rentals in the USA!

Pick up/drop off locations: All across the US! 

Price range: $-$$

Best suited for: Everyone! 

Availability: Check here

When it comes to car rental companies in the US, Budget is our top pick! 

They offer affordable prices, easy booking options, and exceptional customer service that can't be beaten. 

With locations in every state, including near international airports, Budget is the perfect choice for those looking for affordable car rentals. 

They always have promotions and offers available, ensuring that you get the best value for your money. 

Plus, booking with them online is a breeze. 

Don't just take our word for it, check out their website and read their endless satisfied customer reviews!

Vehicles Available

Looking for a rental car? Budget's got you covered! 

Their diverse fleet is perfect for any kind of renter, whether you're on a business trip in New York or taking a road trip through the Utah National Parks.  

With 16 different categories to choose from on their website, finding your perfect fit has never been easier. 

You'll have plenty of options, including a three-door Hyundai i10s, a larger Peugeot 5008s with automatic transmission, and even a luxurious Mercedes E-Class. 

The best part about this rental car company? All of their vehicles are high-quality, comfortable, and reasonably priced.

2. Payless - For affordable car rentals in the US!

Pick up/drop off locations: All over the US! 

Price range: $

Best suited for: budget-conscious renters

Looking for an affordable and reputable car rental option in the US? With over 80 locations across the country, Payless is a great choice. 

They have a strong reputation for excellent customer service and transparent pricing, which means you can trust them to deliver a quality experience at a reasonable price. 

Plus, they offer plenty of awesome car rental deals and discounts, especially if you sign up for their Payless Perks membership program. 

With a focus on affordability and quality, it's no wonder Payless has received thousands of glowing reviews.

And if you're planning a long road trip, they have one-way offers and a wide selection of pick-up and drop-off locations to make your journey even easier.

So if you're on a budget, Payless is undoubtedly one of the best rental car companies in the USA!

Even though Payless are known for their lower prices, it doesn't mean their fleet is lacking. 

They have heaps of vehicles to choose from, for all travel needs and budgets. 

Whether you're looking for a VW Beetle convertible, a Ford Expedition EL or a Ford Transit Van , they’ve got you covered. 

The Payless website is really user-friendly, just enter your dates and pick-up location and use their handy filters to narrow down your searches.

3. Hertz - The best company for loyalty/rewards program!

Pick up/drop off locations: All over the US including neighborhood and airport pick-ups

Price range: $$

Best suited for: Frequent car renters

For every type of traveler in the US, you really can't go wrong with Hertz car rental! 

They are huge players in the car hire game with locations and raving reviews from all over the world.

Hertz has an extensive fleet and endless pick-up and drop-off locations throughout the US, making them the ideal choice for one-way trips so you can drive from Los Angeles all the way to Seattle , in comfort and style! 

What really sets Hertz apart from the rest of the car rental companies in the US has to be their incredible loyalty program, Hertz Gold Plus Rewards, offering perks and discounts to all of their frequent customers. Other benefits include free rental days and upgrades (depending on your points).

With unbeatable customer service and a long-standing reputation, you can't go wrong with Hertz.

Hertz really has a vehicle for every type of traveler! 

Whether you're looking for a sturdy family car with space for all your luggage or a sporty number to get you across the states in style, Hertz will have something for you. 

Make use of their price match guarantee - if you find a cheaper Hertz vehicle on any other site, they will refund you the difference!

4. Sixt - For a wide variety of vehicles

Pick up/drop off locations: All over the US including Atlanta, Boston, Fort Lauderdale, Denver , Chicago and San Francisco  

Price range: $$-$$$

Best suited for: Business and leisure travelers! 

In 1912, a small German company started with just three vehicles. Today, that company has grown into one of the largest car rental companies in the world with over 2000 locations worldwide. 

Sixt stands out as an excellent choice due to their commitment to exceptional customer service and high-quality vehicles. 

Customers from all over the world have given glowing reviews, and Sixt's expert multilingual team is available around the clock to help ensure a seamless rental experience. 

Although their car rental rates may be slightly higher than other rental companies, Sixt offers transparent pricing, comprehensive coverage, and top-notch vehicles.

SUVs, electric cars, convertibles, sports cars, vans, pick-up trucks, four-wheeled drives, and premium cars, the list is endless when it comes to the vehicles available to hire from Sixt! 

With a high-quality fleet, great discount options and a seamless rental process, you can't go wrong with Sixt.

5. Enterprise - Best for airport car hire in the US

Pick up/drop off locations: Every state in the United States! 

Best suited for: Business car hire

You may be familiar with Enterprise car rental, which is among the world's largest rental car companies, boasting 9000 locations globally and 1.5 million vehicles. 

Enterprise has a presence in every state of the US , making it highly accessible, particularly with locations near major airports throughout the country. 

As a well-established company, Enterprise excels in providing top-notch customer service and a seamless rental process.

They're especially a great option if you're wanting to explore California, offering car rentals in Los Angeles as well as Santa Barbara and San Diego, among other locations.

You might be sensing a theme here as Enterprise, like all of the companies on this list, have a great choice of cars available to hire in the US. 

From compact three-doors to spacious SUVs and people carriers, all of their vehicles are updated, comfortable and reliable.

6. National - For a premium car rental experience!

Pick up/drop off locations: All across the US

Best suited for: Luxury travelers 

With 1500 locations around the world , National has quickly become a household name when it comes to car rentals in the US. 

National Car Rental offers a premium rental experience, with high-quality vehicles, exceptional customer service, convenient pick-up and drop-off locations and flexible booking options. 

What really sets this company apart from the rest is its loyalty program, the Emerald Club where frequent renters can take advantage of even more deals, discounts and upgrades.

National definitely leans towards the higher end when it comes to its fleet as they have an extensive range of premium and luxury vehicles available for hire. 

You can expect to see models like the Porshe Taycan, Audi R8, Chevrolet Corvette and Rolls Royce Ghost available to rent in your chosen destination.

7. Thrifty - For car hire in the US for all budgets!

Pick up/drop off locations: 300 locations across the country 

Best suited for: Everyone

Thrifty , along with its parent company Hertz and sister company Dollar, operates in more than 4,000 locations worldwide, with 300 of them located in the USA . 

This extensive network of locations makes Thrifty a convenient option for people seeking short-term or long-term car rentals in the US. 

Thrifty offers competitive rates, value to customers, and a loyalty program with significant discounts, making it a standout car rental company. 

Thrifty has a fantastic selection of vehicles available for rental in the US, ranging from economy cars, mid-size SUVs, convertibles, pick-up trucks, full-sized vans and some luxury vehicles for those wanting to travel through the states in style. 

Do check out the additional fees that might be added to your booking with Thrifty as there are some extras depending on your rental location.

8. Dollar - For budget car rentals in America! 

Pick up/drop off locations: Las Vegas , New York, Chicago, San Diego, New Orleans, Portland and more! 

Price range: $-$$ 

If you're looking for a reliable car rental service in the US, Dollar is an excellent option. 

They offer competitive rates, clear fees, excellent customer service, and numerous convenient locations throughout the country. 

With over 55 years of experience in the industry, Dollar knows how to provide a top-notch car rental experience at a great value. 

Plus, their membership program offers even better deals and discounts, and it's free to join .

If you're looking for car rentals in Las Vegas , San Francisco , or other locations in the United States, don't hesitate to check this company out!

Dollar has 19 different types of vehicles available in the US so you will be spoilt for choice if you opt for them. 

Ranging from smaller three-door city explorers to twelve seater Ford transit vans, no matter your reason for renting a car in the US, they will have something that meets your needs and budget.

9. Alamo - For family-friendly car rentals in the US!

Pick up/drop off locations: 240+ locations across the US

Best suited for: Families 

Looking for a family-friendly car rental? Look no further than Alamo ! 

With a vast network of locations, you can start your adventure at any location, and Alamo will have a car waiting for you. 

Alamo Car Rental offers competitive all-inclusive rates, 24/7 customer support, no hidden fees, and a free additional driver for all renters in the United States. This is perfect for couples and families who want to divide their journeys.

With a fleet jam-packed full of vehicles that are reliable, comfortable and spacious, this company is the ideal option for a full US road trip! 

Alamo has over 60 different vehicles to choose from so you will be spoiled for choice, everything from family-sized SUVs to small fuel-efficient economy cars, there is something for everyone.

10. Avis - For great deals on US car rentals

Pick up/drop off locations: Every major airport and city in the US!  

When it comes to the best car rental companies in America, Avis is a must-mention. 

Their dedication to excellent customer service and straightforward booking system makes them a fantastic option for all kinds of travelers. 

Avis Car Rental also offers an easily navigable website that features heaps of discounts and promotions , making their already affordable rates even better value!

As I'm sure you can guess, Avis has a huge fleet for you to choose from so you won't struggle to find one that meets your taste, needs and budget! 

If there are too many options for you to pick from, make use of their handy online car guide to see each vehicle's specifications. 

Whether you opt for an electric city explorer, a large pick-up truck or a family-sized car, you will find that all their vehicles are clean, comfortable and reliable.

Common FAQs for Car Rentals in The US

How much does it cost to rent a car in the us.

It's almost impossible to say how much renting a car in the US can cost as it depends on so many factors! 

The time of year, state, pick-up location, length of rental, and type of car you hire will all have a big impact on your overall price. 

On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from around $30 to $100 dollars per day or more for larger or more premium vehicles.  

How old do you need to be to rent a car in the USA? 

Renting a car in the US typically requires you to be at least 21 years old , though some companies may permit those over 19. 

If you are under 25, most companies will charge an extra fee for young drivers. 

However, it's best to confirm the age requirements and policies with the rental company you plan to use.

What are some of the best road trips in the US? 

There are heaps of incredible road trips you can take in the US but some of the most popular include the Pacific Coast Highway, Route 66, and the Blue Ridge Parkway, each offering iconic landmarks and unbeatable landscapes! 

If you're planning a US road trip soon, here are some guides you might find useful! 

• Ultimate USA West Coast Road Trip
• 2 Week California Road Trip Itinerary
• 2 Week Colorado Road Trip Itinerary
• 2 Week Alaska Road Trip Itinerary

Is hiring a car in the US worth it? 

Absolutely! 

Whether you rent a motorhome or a car, having a vehicle is vital for exploring everything the US has to offer. 

While public transport in the US is good, it's nowhere near the level of Europe and you will find getting from state to state without your own vehicle pretty pricey and restricting. 

Hiring your own vehicle will give you the freedom to get around the country on your own schedule and allow you to get off the beaten track and into some of the country’s incredible national parks.

Now you've got an idea of the best hire car companies in the USA, it's time to plan your trip! 

Here are some other North America rental guides that you may find helpful:

• Best Car Rentals in Vancouver
• Best Car Rentals in Canada

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Can I rent a car if I’m under 25?

The minimum driver age is 21-25 (depending on the supplier). Suppliers that rent to drivers under 25 usually have a young-driver surcharge.

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Yes, we list all major suppliers and that means they have depots all around the country and often cater for one way rentals. Simply uncheck the “Return to the same location" checkbox in our search tool to change the return location. Tip: select airport locations for the largest choice of vehicles.

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One-Way Car Rental

Looking to rent a car for a one-way trip? No problem! Enterprise Rent-A-Car offers easy and convenient one-way car rentals between many of its locations worldwide. Choose from a great selection of vehicles, including economy, full-size sedans, SUVs, minivans, and pickup trucks.

One-way car rentals are ideal for:

• Trips across the city or country
• Saving time by not returning to your original location
• Airline delays and/or cancellations
• Unplanned trip changes
• And many others!

Start your reservation and find great rates on one-way car rentals at branches across the country.

One Way Road Trip Ideas

Plan a road trip along California's scenic Pacific Coast Highway or make the journey to the Southernmost point in the US. Grab a car and hit the road!

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• LA to Vegas
• Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon
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• Los Angeles Airport (LAX)
• Orlando Airport (MCO)
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• Tampa International Airport (TPA)
• Denver International Airport (DEN)

Best Road Trip Cars

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Road trips USA: Route inspiration and ideas

There's no vacation more American than a road trip through the USA. To help you plan your adventure, we're sharing some of the best road trip routes in the USA, from Route 66 to the Pacific Coast Highway. Plus, find out what factors to consider when choosing when and where to go.

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Suitable cars for your road trip in the U.S.

Best time to do a road trip in the u.s., estimate your road trip budget, one-week road trip usa: from seattle to los angeles, the ultimate 2-week road trip in the u.s., 5-day road trip in texas.

The U.S. is a massive country with diverse road conditions, so the best rental car for your USA road trip depends on your route. If you're taking a city-centric East Coast road trip, consider booking a smaller rental car to more easily navigate city streets. If you're crossing vast distances out in the wilderness, a larger vehicle like an SUV might be more suitable. Avoid electric vehicles when driving remote routes, as charging stations may be sparse.

Because the U.S. is so vast, there's no singular best time to take a road trip. The weather varies dramatically across the country. For instance, the wettest month in New York City is July, yet July is the driest month in Los Angeles (data sourced on weatherbase.com ). And while the average temperature is below freezing in Salt Lake City in January, the average temperature in Los Angeles is a mild 57.3°F. Overall, it's best to avoid extreme weather no matter what USA road trip route you're taking, so avoid winter up north and summer down south or in the desert.

You should also consider the popularity of the destinations along your route. Peak travel months may mean accommodations and rental cars are more expensive and harder to book. Most tourism peaks in the summer or during the holidays (based on KAYAK’s flight searches data), so consider traveling during spring or fall for the fewest crowds and more reasonable prices.

Before you select your road trip destination and length, you might want to know how much a USA road trip can cost you. Here is some data, based on the comparisons of hundreds of travel providers, to help you estimate the cost of your trip and adapt accordingly.

• Average daily rate for a car rental in NYC: $109
• Average daily rate for a car rental in Los Angeles: $69
• Average price for one night in a mid-range hotel in NYC: $318
• Average price for one night in a mid-range hotel in Los Angeles: $233
• Cost of 1 gallon of gas in NYC in March 2024: $3.86
• Cost of 1 gallon of gas in Los Angeles in March 2024: $5.35 (source: numbeo.com )

For an East Coast USA road trip, the cost of a one-week journey that spans 700 miles might be about $3100 for 2 travelers ($1550 per person).

For a West Coast USA road trip, the cost of a one-week journey that spans 700 miles might be about $2280 for 2 travelers ($1140 per person).

To reduce expenses, consider camping if the weather is mild . Plus, if you travel with more than one other person, you can split expenses even more. But do keep in mind that these estimated costs are just for the rental car, gas, and accommodations. You'll still have to pay for food and entrance fees to attractions, whether museums or national parks.

Rent a convertible to drive down the Pacific Coast Highway on this iconic USA road trip.

Day 1: Seattle

Start your trip in Seattle, home to iconic attractions like the Space Needle, Pike Place Market and the Museum of Flight. Fuel up your body and mind with some coffee, as Seattle is known for its coffee culture.

Where to stay in the Seattle area: Hyatt Regency Seattle is the best rated hotel in town, according to KAYAK data.

Day 2: Portland

Distance from Seattle: 174 miles – 2 hours 40 minutes

On your drive from Seattle to Portland, consider making a side journey to Mount St. Helens for scenic views, a history lesson and some epic hiking. Once in Portland, don't miss a visit to the Portland Japanese Garden, and wrap up your day with a beer from a local brewery (there are many to choose from!).

Where to stay in the Portland area: One of the most elegant hotels in town is The Benson Portland, Curio Collection by Hilton .

Day 3: Crater Lake National Park

Distance from Portland: 232 miles – 4 hours

In the warm months, take the opportunity to go boating on the deepest lake in the United States, Crater Lake, which is 1,943 feet deep. If you'd rather stay on solid ground, consider hiking the many trails along its edge.

Where to stay in the Crater Lake National Park area: Crater Lake Resort is located in the nearest town to the national park, Fort Klamath.

Day 4: Redwood National and State Parks

Distance from Crater Lake National Park: 154 miles – 3 hours

Redwood trees are some of the largest in the world, topping out over 300 feet tall. They're also some of the world's oldest, living up to 2,000 years.

Where to stay in the Redwood National and State Parks area: The Historic Requa Inn has beautiful views of the Klamath River.

Day 5: San Francisco

Distance from Redwood National and State Parks: 311 miles – 5 hours 30 minutes

There's far too much to do in San Francisco than can be accomplished in a single day, but we'd recommend visiting Alcatraz Island, seeing the Golden Gate Bridge and listening to the sea lions bark at Fisherman's Wharf.

Where to stay in the San Francisco area: If you're willing to splurge, the Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero offers bird's-eye views of the city.

Day 6: Morro Bay

Distance from San Francisco: 232 miles – 4 hours

Morro Bay is the halfway point between San Francisco and Los Angeles along Highway 1, or the Pacific Coast Highway. It's a good overnight stop, but spend most of your day exploring the California coast, from Monterey (home to the famous Monterey Aquarium) to Big Sur.

Where to stay in the Morro Bay area: The Estero Inn overlooks Morro Bay Rock and the harbor, and it's one of the most highly rated hotels in town.

Day 7: Los Angeles

Distance from Morro Bay: 202 miles – 3 hours 20 minutes

As you make your way down the coast, visit San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara. Then once in LA, the world is your oyster. Visit the iconic Santa Monica Pier, take a Hollywood studio tour or visit one of the city's world-class museums.

Where to stay in the Los Angeles area: The Fairmont Century Plaza is a historic hotel that's fairly centrally located, making it easy to get around town.

There's no USA road trip more iconic than Route 66, also known as the Mother Road. Here's how to travel its full length, with stops at a few must-see off-route destinations.

Day 1: Chicago, IL

You'll find the beginning of Route 66 in Chicago at the intersection of Jackson Boulevard and Michigan Avenue. Before you start driving, take a moment to enjoy some of Chicago's top attractions, from its numerous museums to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (you might know it as "the bean").

Where to stay in Chicago area: Chicago Athletic Association has stunning architecture, as well as a rooftop bar with views of Millennium Park.

Day 2: Springfield, IL

Distance from Chicago: 202 miles – 3 hours

It's all about Route 66 in this Illinois town. Visit the Route 66 Twin Drive-In or the Route 66 Motorheads Bar, Grill & Museum for a taste of Route 66 history. And don't miss the chance to snap a photo of the Lauterbach Giant.

Where to stay in the Springfield area: The Inn at 835 Boutique Hotel is one of the most highly rated hotels in town.

Day 3: St. Louis, MO

Distance from Springfield: 101 miles – 1 hour 30 minutes

Just down the road from Springfield is St. Louis, home of the grand Gateway Arch. After you make your way to the top, visit the City Museum, an architectural playground for children and adults alike in a 600,000-square-foot industrial building.

Where to stay in the St. Louis area: The St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton is housed in the former train station, and its lobby is breathtaking.

Day 4: Branson, MO

Distance from St. Louis: 253 miles – 4 hours

Branson might be just off Route 66, but it's a resort destination worth a stop. Choose between relaxing on Table Rock Lake or visiting any one of the numerous attractions here, from the Titanic Museum Attraction to Dolly Parton's Stampede.

Where to stay in the Branson area: The Lodge of the Ozarks is one of the top-rated hotels in the region.

Day 5: Tulsa, OK

Distance from Branson: 220 miles – 3 hours 17 minutes

Architecture lovers will enjoy Tulsa's Art Deco buildings, while music lovers won't want to miss the Woody Guthrie Center. And aviation lovers should visit the Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium.

Where to stay in the Tulsa area: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tulsa Downtown is one of the highest-rated hotels here.

Day 6: Oklahoma City, OK

Distance from Tulsa: 106 miles – 1 hour 35 minutes

Oklahoma City has no shortage of attractions, from the Myriad Botanical Gardens to the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Plus, you can visit the poignant Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, honoring the victims, survivors, and rescuers of the Oklahoma City Bombing.

Where to stay in the Oklahoma City area: The National, Autograph Collection is located inside a former bank, and its

Day 7: Amarillo, TX

Distance from Oklahoma City: 260 miles – 4 hours

For a photo op, make for Cadillac Ranch, an unusual roadside art installation comprising a series of 10 Cadillacs. For dinner, dig into the 72-ounce steak at the Big Texan Steak Ranch. If you finish it (and its trimmings) within an hour, it's on the house.

Where to stay in the Amarillo area: The highest-rated hotel in Amarillo is TownePlace Suites by Marriott Amarillo West/Medical Center .

Day 8: Santa Fe, NM

Distance from Amarillo: 279 miles – 4 hours 14 minutes

Take the Santa Fe loop of Route 66 to visit artsy Santa Fe. The city is a haven for creative types, who will be drawn to institutions like the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum or interactive attractions like Meow Wolf.

Where to stay in the Santa Fe area: Pueblo Bonito Santa Fe has charming rooms in adobe buildings, plus free parking.

Day 9: Albuquerque, NM

Distance from Santa Fe: 64 miles – 1 hour 3 minutes

It's a short drive today, which means you can spend your morning in Santa Fe before heading to Albuquerque attractions like Petroglyph National Monument, Sandia Peak Tramway and the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History.

Where to stay in the Albuquerque area: Hotel Chaco is one of the highest-rated hotels in town.

Day 10: Flagstaff, AZ

Distance from Albuquerque: 323 miles – 4 hours 50 minutes

Use Flagstaff as your home base for visiting Grand Canyon National Park, which is just 90 minutes away. At night, visit the nearby Lowell Observatory for stargazing.

Where to stay in the Flagstaff area: The High Country Motor Lodge has a retro road-trip vibe.

Day 11: Page, AZ

Distance from Flagstaff: 129 miles – 2 hours 17 minutes

Page is another detour from Route 66, but we think it's a worthwhile one for the landscapes. This is the nearest town to Antelope Canyon, one of the most picturesque slot canyons in the Southwest, and the scenic Horseshoe Bend.

Where to stay in the Page area: The highest-rated hotel in town is Hampton Inn & Suites Page - Lake Powell .

Day 12: St. George, UT

Distance from Page: 154 miles – 2 hours 35 minutes

Add another national park to this road trip: Zion National Park. This Utah stunner, known for its red rock cliffs and dramatic landscapes, is best accessed from St. George.

Where to stay in the St. George area: Staybridge Suites St. George is a top mid-tier hotel in the area.

Day 13: Las Vegas

Distance from St. George: 120 miles – 1 hour 45 minutes

No, Las Vegas isn't on Route 66, but if you're all the way over here, Sin City is worth a visit. If gambling isn't your thing, visit the Neon Museum for a taste of Vegas history, then catch a show in the evening.

Where to stay in the Las Vegas area: Encore at the Wynn Las Vegas is the highest-rated hotel on the Strip.

Day 14: Los Angeles

Distance from Las Vegas: 274 miles – 4 hours 5 minutes

Congratulations, you made it! Route 66 ends in Santa Monica. Celebrate with a dip in the Pacific Ocean, a sunset view off Santa Monica Pier or an ice-cold drink at Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe.

Where to stay in the Los Angeles area: Treat yourself to an ocean view at Shutters on the Beach .

As the second largest state in the US, Texas is an ideal candidate for a road trip. Visit several of its major cities (plus one fun pit stop) on this five-day journey.

Day 1: Dallas

Dallas is a sprawling metropolis, so pick one or two things to do during your brief stay. We recommend a taste of presidential history at the George W. Bush Presidential Center and the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza for a look into the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.

Where to stay in the Dallas area: Hotel ZaZa is one of the highest-rated boutique hotels in town.

Day 2: Fort Worth

Distance from Dallas: 32 miles – 33 minutes

Fort Worth (is the oft-overlooked counterpart to Dallas, but it's renowned for its works by architectural icons like Philip Johnson Fort Worth Water Gardens), Louis I. Kahn (Kimbell Art Museum), and Tadao Ando (Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth). Plus, don't miss the Old West heritage in the Fort Worth Stockyards. Watch the twice-daily cattle drive to see Texas longhorns on the move, then head to Billy Bob's, the world's largest honky tonk, for a concert and a round of pool.

Where to stay in the Fort Worth area: For a highly rated hotel in the historic Fort Worth Stockyards district, pick the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Fort Worth Historic Stockyards

Day 3: Waco

Distance from Fort Worth: 89 miles – 1 hour 21 minutes

En route from Fort Worth to Austin, the city of Waco is worthy of an overnight. Fans of home renovation TV stars Chip and Joanna Gaines will no doubt want to spend time at the Silos, the home base of the couple's Magnolia empire. But there's also the Dr. Pepper Museum and Waco Mammoth National Monument in town.

Where to stay in the Waco area: For some warm hospitality, stay at the Bed and Breakfast on White Rock Creek

Day 4: Austin

Distance from Waco: 102 miles – 1 hour 40 minutes

Live music is everywhere in Austin, so head into your nearest bar to catch some tunes. Animal lovers will want to witness the nightly flight of the Congress Avenue Bridge bats, while nature lovers might enjoy paddling on Lady Bird Lake.

Where to stay in the Austin area: The boutique Colton House Hotel is the highest-rated accommodation in Austin.

Day 5: San Antonio

Distance from Austin: 80 miles – 1 hour 20 minutes

San Antonio's biggest claim to fame might be the Alamo, but the mission is just one of five in the city. After visiting them, head to the trendy Pearl District for dinner and drinks.

Where to stay in the San Antonio area: Canopy by Hilton San Antonio Riverwalk has a lovely outdoor bar overlooking the Riverwalk.

Though flying from city to city might save you a bit of time, there's no better way to travel the US than via a road trip. If you need information about rental cars , road trip tips or the best places to visit in the US during the summer , we've got you covered.

The hotel recommendations included in this article are based on customer ratings and the author's personal choices, so please feel free to use our hotel search tool to find the accommodation best suited to your needs.

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25 Best Road Trips in the USA (Itinerary Ideas + Tips!)

If there’s one travel bucket list experience that our home country of the United States is best for, it’s road trips.

From small towns to big cities, from mountain ranges to deserts, from forests to plains, and from sea to shining sea, there is no shortage of epic destinations for road trips in the USA.

We’ve taken USA road trips in about 30 of the 50 states ourselves (and hope to finish them all off one day!).

To help fill in the gaps, we asked fellow travel bloggers to share some of their favorites for this Great American road trips blog post.

They delivered an enormous variety of USA road trip itinerary ideas, from weekend trip options to weeks-long excursions!

Dreaming of taking a road trip in the United States and not sure where you want to go?

This list of exciting USA road trip itinerary ideas will help you decide where to hit the open road next! 

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Quick Tips for Your USA Road Trip

Cross-country usa road trip ideas, southern road trips in the usa, united states road trip ideas in the west, east coast road trips in the usa, central usa road trip routes, non-continental usa road trips.

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Before we dive into exploring the best USA road trips, there are a few tips to be aware of–especially if you’re visiting as an international tourist and haven’t explored the United States before!

If you’re renting a car, shop around.

The best company to rent a car from for your United States road trip will likely vary dramatically depending on where and when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits.

Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your USA road trip.

Browse rental cars for your American road trip today!

Read the rental requirements carefully.

Especially make sure you know how many miles you’ve been allotted (or ideally, if they’re unlimited), if you need to return the car empty or full of fuel, what to do if the car breaks down, and what damages you’re liable for in the event of an accident.

On the off chance that you’re planning on continuing your road trip into Canada or Mexico , be sure to check any requirements for crossing the border as well.

Book travel insurance.

We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen on the road, and an epic road trip is definitely a case of better safe than sorry.

Check prices and inclusions with Safety Wing for road trips in the USA!

Don’t underestimate how sparsely populated parts of the USA are.

If this is your first time visiting the USA, you may be surprised to see just how long you can drive in the United States without coming across a town or even a gas station–especially out west.

Be sure to keep an eye on your directions, and fill up your gas tank before heading into any particularly unpopulated areas!

Make sure you pack the right gear.

From safety gear to snacks, a big USA road trip requires bringing the right tools along, whether you’re taking a short vacation, diving into van life , or somewhere in between.

We recommend taking a look at the suggestions in our road trip packing list before you go!

Consider bringing your sleeping arrangements along with you.

It’s not right for everyone, but there’s a reason that using an RV or campervan is such a classic American road trip experience!

And, you don’t need to dive into the RV lifestyle and buy one for your next trip in order to try it out: you can try out the experience by renting RVs and camper vans from Outdoorsy .

Browse RVs available to rent with Outdoorsy today!

If possible, stop in at least one national park!

Our home country is filled with an enormous number of interesting and beautiful places, but perhaps none shine quite as brightly as our national park system.

Want to climb sand dunes? We have that.

Marvel at glaciers? Check.

Hike across mountains? Take your pick.

Go scuba diving? Definitely.

Admire the power of incredible geysers? Got that, too.

Whatever kind of outdoor wonder you have in mind, you can find it at one of the most beautiful national parks in America !

From Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders

Route 66 is the quintessential American road trip, inspiring songs, movies, and novels.

Starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, Route 66 passes through nine states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, and California.

Some of the best things to do on the route are enjoying the kitschy 1950s motels, gas stations, and restaurants that harken back to the days of the Great American Road Trip.

You’ll also find tons of quirky roadside attractions like the Catoosa Whale, Cadillac Ranch , and the Twin Arrows that are must-sees.

If you want to enjoy some nature along the way, you can visit the Grand Canyon or Petrified Forrest National Park.

The most typical way to explore Route 66 is to start in Chicago and drive all the way to Santa Monica, but there are many who drive smaller portions of it or go from west-to-east instead of east-to-west.

There’s no single “right” way to make the drive. Just make sure you enjoy yourself as you go!

Recommended Road Trip Length

Because the route is so long and there’s so much to see, it’s recommended you spend two weeks exploring it one way.

New York to Los Angeles

Driving across the United States from New York to Los Angeles is one of those classic American road trip routes that, quite honestly, is not suited to most USA vacations–you’ll be looking at a lot  of cornfields and open plains along the way and spend many days on the road.

… But that being said, the legend and myth of this USA road trip route endure because it does make for quite the adventure!

With nearly 3,000 miles of driving to do between NYC and LA, you have extreme flexibility to create your own USA road trip itinerary!

However, the most direct route (a mere 44 hours of drive time, not including stops and traffic!) will take you to Chicago, across the open fields of Iowa and Nebraska, through some stunning nature in Colorado and Utah, and right through Las Vegas before delivering you to the beauty of the Pacific Ocean.

If you’re open to detours, plenty of national parks will be within your reach on this USA road trip, including Rocky Mountain National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, Zion National Park, and even the Grand Canyon!

If you’d like to enjoy a coast-to-coast road trip in the USA, we recommend setting aside at least two weeks to ensure you have enough time to experience the route along the way (and avoid spending too many days at a time looking at nothing but highways)!

Blue Ridge Parkway

From Carl of NC Tripping

If you’re exploring the western parts of North Carolina or Virginia , the Blue Ridge Parkway is always lingering somewhere nearby.

It’s the most popular road trip between the two states and connects two of the United States’ most-visited national parks, Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Shenandoah National Park.

At 469 miles in length, this road will take some time to explore !

Narrowing things down to a few places you must visit is tough, but here are some “musts.” 

Moving north to south, highlights on the Virginia side include Humpback Rocks (Milepost 5), Mabry Mill (MP 176), Peaks of Otter (MP 85), and the Blue Ridge Music Center (MP 213).

Across the border in North Carolina, you at least need to see Linville Falls (316), Craggy Gardens (MP 364), Graveyard Fields (418), and Oconoluftee (MP 469) at the end of the line.

Of course, there are more spots scattered throughout that are within a short drive of the Parkway , such as the ever-popular Asheville, NC , the Biltmore Estate , and more charming mountain towns than you can count.

That, along with its length, is why this is one USA road trip that will take some time, if ever, for you to complete. 

Please note that some areas of the Blue Ridge Parkway close during winter through parts of spring. The NPS is pretty good about keeping information up to date on their website .

While you can drive the Blue Ridge Parkway in less time, ideally, if you want to hike and explore along the route, a week is a great starting point for this USA road trip route.

Kentucky Bourbon Trail

From Katie-Beth of Her Life in Ruins

Who doesn’t love a nice glass of bourbon?

On the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, you tour 18 different distilleries, try multiple bourbons (and other treats) at each, and take in tons of bottled-up history throughout the gorgeous Bluegrass State. 

While there is no official route for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, stay in either Lexington or Louisville as a “home base” for the experience, as all of the distilleries are within a few hours’ drive of these cities (some are mere minutes!).

Each day, pick 4-5 distilleries to visit, starting when they open in the morning and touring until they close.

Try to do the distilleries that are closest together on the same days (less driving and easier to get from one place to another).

If you’re a serious drinker, there are some bus tours that will chauffeur you throughout the Trail!

You’re never given more than about 2 ounces of alcohol at each distillery, but you may want a designated driver just in case.

On the drive between distilleries, you’ll see the rolling hills of Kentucky, some of our famous horse farms, and, of course, rick houses holding millions of gallons of the delicious spirit. 

In order to visit all of the distilleries, I recommend spending 4-6 days on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

Southeast Coastal Road Trip

The stretch of coastline running from St. Augustine, Florida to the Outer Banks of North Carolina is packed with beautiful sights, historic cities, and laid-back beach towns.

We consider this area one of our personal favorites for road trips in the USA, and we’ve taken dozens of road trips in the region!

Start in St. Augustine, founded in 1565 by Spanish settlers and one of the most historic cities in the USA.

Explore its beautiful Castillo de San Marcos, check out the Fountain of Youth, relax on the beach, and explore the Colonial Quarter.

From there, head north to Savannah , where you can enjoy its incredible architecture and town squares, and then move on to Charleston , where you’ll find compelling American history and the lovely Folley Beach.

As you move up the coast, consider detouring for brief stops in Beaufort, South Carolina and/or Hilton Head Island, before heading into North Carolina.

Historic Wilmington and New Bern are always worth a look as you pass by, and while you’ll need to head all the way up to Kitty Hawk and Nag’s Head to experience the classic Outer Banks destinations, the Crystal Coast ( Emerald Isle , Morehead City, Beaufort , Atlantic Beach , etc.) has been my family’s haunt for generations and is also well worth experiencing.

And, the Crystal Coast also happens to be closer geographically to the rest of the stops on this United States road trip itinerary!

Want to continue north to the Outer Banks?

Ocracoke Island, Nags Head, Duck, Kitty Hawk (famously home to the Wright Brothers’ first-ever flight!) and more are all ready to welcome you.

We recommend spending about 10 days enjoying this USA road trip route.

Orlando to New Orleans Road Trip

From Christine of Live Love Run Travel

Driving from Orlando to New Orleans  gives you plenty of options for stops along the way as well as enough to fill up an entire vacation at the starting point and ending point of the road trip.

From natural springs to beaches to caverns, there is plenty to see along this route to break up the trip.

Orlando is of course known for its iconic theme parks including Disney and Universal Studios.

However, Orlando and Florida also offer plenty of natural highlights including the natural springs.

On the way from Orlando to New Orleans , stop at Rainbow Springs, Silver Springs, or Ginnie Springs along I-75.

Once you get onto I-10, make sure to stop at Florida Caverns State Park for a unique Florida experience.

Plus, if you are taking this trip in the summer, you’ll appreciate the cooler air in the caverns!

Along I-10, there are also plenty of opportunities to stop for some time at the beach.

Consider Pensacola, Florida, or the Gulf Shores, Alabama, or any of Mississippi’s beaches to avoid a long drive off the main road.

From there you are in New Orleans where you can enjoy the bayou, lots of amazing food and live music, and plenty of history and beautiful architecture in the various districts within the city.

The length of this road trip depends on a few factors including how long you want to spend in Orlando and New Orleans.

The drive itself only takes about 9 hours, but if you want to spend time at the springs, beaches, and caverns, stretch it out to a 2 or 3 day drive, with a few days on either end to explore Orlando and New Orleans.

Washington State

From Katie of Two Wandering Soles

With rugged driftwood-strewn beaches, snowcapped peaks, small towns, and major cities, Washington State is a true gem.

Home to incredibly diverse landscapes and endless adventures to be had, this Pacific Northwest destination is one of the best places to take a road trip in the United States. 

Start by  exploring Seattle (if you have the time) because there is plenty to do in this PNW hub. But when you’re ready to get out of the city, head straight to the Olympic Peninsula .

With temperate rainforests, waterfalls, remote beaches, and a towering mountain range, Olympic National Park is arguably the most diverse swath of land in the state, if not one of the most unique places in the country, and is the perfect place to try out some hikes in Washington .

Another drive well worth your while is to head northeast toward the iconic Mount Baker.

If you have the time, continue north to Highway 20 which brings you into the breathtaking North Cascades National Park.

Make photo stops along the way (like at the spectacularly beautiful turquoise waters of Lake Diablo), set off on epic hikes, and refuel at the small towns along the way.

Eventually, you’ll reach Lake Chelan , which is a perfect spot to cool off on a hot summer day.

From Lake Chelan, you have a stunning drive on Highway 2 back to Seattle with many more opportunities for exploring small towns and hiking along the way, if time allows. 

If you want to cover this whole route, you should allow 1.5 – 2 weeks. If you have less time, shorten your USA road trip itinerary accordingly.

Southwest Colorado Road Trip

From Tanya of Rad Family Travel

Exploring Southwest Colorado on a memorable summer road trip through the mountains offers adventure in every direction.

Sand-sled through Great Sand Dunes National Park, drive breath-taking mountain passes, soak and swim in hot springs, and climb ladders to ancient Puebloan dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park.

From there, imagine taking a jeep ride to old mining towns, biking along scenic trails, and hiking among wildflowers.

Arrive in Telluride in style via a free gondola, go whitewater rafting or alpine sliding, sleep under the stars, and top it all off with local burgers and cold brews.

In other words: whatever kind of outdoor adventure you’re looking for, southwest Colorado has you covered.

A Southwest Colorado road trip highlights diverse outdoor fun in Great Sand Dunes National Park, Pagosa Springs, Durango, Mesa Verde National Park, Telluride, Ridgway, Ouray, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Crested Butte, and Buena Vista.

Choose from tent camping, cabins, or hotels, or a mixture thereof, for lodging along the way.

Allow at least nine to ten days for this epic southwest Colorado Road Trip , starting from Colorado Springs.

If you prefer slower travel and lots of outdoor adventure, consider making it a fourteen-day loop by staying longer in Ouray, Crested Butte, and Buena Vista — and really delve into these sweet mountain towns . 

Utah’s Mighty Five

From Ali of Travel Made Simple

Utah is home to five amazing national parks, all close enough to each other to visit on one iconic national parks road trip .

These national parks are Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion. Since they’re all in the southern half of the state, you can drive in a loop to get to them all.

This also works well as part of a bigger  southwestern US road trip .

If you’re short on time or not in great shape, you can see a lot by driving or taking park shuttles, where available.

Hop out at designated parking lots, lookout points, or shuttle stops, take pictures, and go for a short walk.

For more activity, each park has hiking trails for beginners to expert-level hikers.

You can see the highlights of each park in about a day, but allow more time at any park where you want to experience more hiking.

Start and end in Las Vegas and drive counterclockwise.

Since driving from Las Vegas to Moab , where Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park are located, is quite long, consider stopping in Page, AZ (home of the famous Horseshoe Bend ), or Monument Valley on the AZ/UT border. Or both!

From Moab, drive to Capitol Reef National Park, then Bryce Canyon National Park , and lastly Zion National Park before heading back to Vegas.

If you prefer, you can also do this route in reverse!

Give yourself at least a week to do this road trip, or longer if you’re stopping in Page and/or Monument Valley.

South Dakota

If you’re craving wide open spaces, plenty of buffalo and prairie dog sightings, gorgeous caves, and a quirky roadside stop or two, then South Dakota is the American road trip for you!

Driving from east to west (though you can easily reverse it), pay a quick visit to Sioux Falls and then The World’s Only Corn Palace (their words, not mine) before diving into Badlands National Park.

Drive the Badlands National Park scenic loop, do some hiking (the Notch Trail is not to be missed), and when you’re ready for a break, detour to Wall Drug for a heavy dose of kitsch.

Head north to visit the Wild West town of Deadwood, and if you’re up for it, detour into Wyoming for a quick visit to Devil’s Tower, the first US national monument!

Back in South Dakota, base yourself in or around Keystone to explore Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Wind Cave National Park, and–if you have time–Spearfish Canyon.

Going inside Wind Cave National Park requires a guided tour, so be sure to book in advance!

Determined road-trippers can do justice to this South Dakota road trip route in about 5 days, though 7 allows for a bit more hiking and a chance to add on places like Rapid City.

South Dakota is also perfectly located for combining with road trips in Wyoming and beyond, so you can easily use this route as a building block for a bigger US road trip itinerary!

Scenic I-90 from Portland to Yellowstone

From Catherine of Passports and Adventures

Visiting Yellowstone National Park from Portland, Oregon is easy and there is no better route to take than the scenic I-90.

This 812-mile trip starts from Portland and takes the I-84 along the very beautiful Columbia River Gorge.

As you get started, stop at Multnomah Falls to photograph the famous waterfall!

Continue to Richland where you could rest overnight before jumping onto the I-90, the longest interstate in the United States.

This interstate highway passes Spokane before trailing alongside the lake of Coeur d’Alene, a beautiful part of the country, and then snakes through the Nez Pearce-Clearwater National Forests.

Imagine a highway surrounded by forests on either side, and you have an idea of what this part of I-90 is like.

A great town to stop along the I-90 is Missoula, which sits along the Clark Fork River and has plenty on offer including a great park, Caras Park where families and visitors can unwind.

After Missoula, continue along the I-90 and join Highway 287 which will take you to West Yellowstone to start your visit to the first national park.

This route from Portland to Yellowstone is 812 miles via these interstates and highways and could be done in two days but is best enjoyed over a few days before your  Yellowstone vacation .

As you get close to the national park, you can also find some great camping near Yellowstone along this route.

Northern New Mexico

From Stella Jane of Around the World in 24 Hours

Northern New Mexico is one of the most beautiful places in the United States to have a road trip.

The weather is gorgeous and sunny at almost any time of year, and many of the state’s most interesting places are just an hour’s drive away from each other!

Start the road trip in the state’s largest city, Albuquerque. Almost all people arriving in New Mexico start here because this is where the major airport is located.

Tourism in Albuquerque has really taken off since the show  Breaking Bad  was filmed here, but those who are not  Breaking Bad  fans will still love seeing Albuquerque’s charming Old Town.

If you’re lucky enough to be able to plan your trip around the famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta , you won’t be sorry you did!

After a couple of days in Albuquerque, drive an hour up to Santa Fe and spend a couple of days here. This is New Mexico’s capital and its most beautiful city.

You can stop for a bath in the hot springs at Ten Thousand Waves and see the historic Spanish Colonial Palace of the Governors. 

Finally, check out some smaller towns like Los Alamos, where the atomic bomb was developed, Chimayo, which is a popular pilgrimage site, and Taos, where you can visit a Native American pueblo that’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You’ll be amazed at how much Northern New Mexico has to offer!

I recommend spending about a week on this USA road trip route.

Denver to Yellowstone Loop

Starting from Denver, you can easily craft a fantastic road trip plan.

USA national parks are in abundance in the west, but from Denver, you can hit three of the most legendary in short order: Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and the ever-popular Yellowstone National Park.

For your first stop, base yourself in the beautiful mountain town of Estes Park , where you can access some of the best hikes in RMNP while also enjoying this idyllic mountain town.

From there, head up to Yellowstone to enjoy a few days of geysers, geothermal pools, wildlife spotting, and utterly unique views.

On your way back to Denver, head to Grand Teton National Park to visit highlights like Jenny Lake, enjoy some hiking, and soak in iconic views like those along Mormon Row.

Don’t miss the chance to spend a bit of time in Jackson Hole, one of the USA’s most iconic mountain towns, while you’re there!

We recommend setting aside at least a week for this all-American road trip–if you’d like to spend some time in Denver, a full two weeks is best.

San Francisco to Yosemite Loop

From Julie of More Than Main Street

Typically, you think of the Pacific Coast Highway when you think of the best California road trips, right? Well…consider something a little different!

This 10 day California road trip , forming a loop from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park and back, is one of the best road trips in the USA.

You’ll get the best of big-city excitement, some time by the ocean, beautiful scenic vistas, and outdoor fun galore!

After spending a few days in San Francisco , hit up Monterey, Carmel, and part of the Pacific Coast Highway.

Can’t-miss destinations include the Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, Alcatraz, Big Sur, and the world-class Monterey Aquarium.

Next head east over to Yosemite National Park for some incredible hiking, followed by a little wine tasting in Sonoma or Napa Valley, a stop in Muir Woods to see the giant redwoods, then finally back to San Francisco.

This road trip is perfect for families, couples, or even solo travelers and is guaranteed to be one you won’t forget!

You’ll need at least 10 days to do justice to this epic California road trip.

The American Southwest from Las Vegas

Thanks to inexpensive flights, a convenient location in southern Nevada, and its widespread appeal, Las Vegas is a fantastic place to kick off a road trip through the southwest!

With Las Vegas as a starting point, head off to Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada before making your way to the ultimate USA road trip destination: the Grand Canyon.

From there, loop up to Moab to explore Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, head west to visit Bryce Canyon National Park , and then move onto Zion before circling back to Vegas.

With extra time, you can add on more exciting stops in Arizona and Utah like Monument Valley, Page (home of Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend ), Capitol Reef National Park, Goblin Valley State Park, and more.

Ten days is a good starting place for this American road trip, but you can do an abridged version in one week, and the sky is the limit as far as how long you can take to explore every nook, cranny, and slot canyon in the region!

New York State Road Trip

From Melissa of Navigation Junkie

The route from Buffalo, NY to New York City is full of great attractions and small towns to explore, and the variety of stops along the way will be sure to entertain every member of the family!

To begin the journey, start at Niagara Falls in Buffalo, NY.

See the roaring power of the American and Canadian falls, and if you are up for it, take a ride on the Maid of the Mist to get up close and personal with the falls.

After visiting the falls continue on to Letchworth State Park, the Grand Canyon of the East, for a day of hiking and enjoying nature.

Continue on to   Rochester, NY , where you will find a variety of fun attractions, history, and nature experiences.

The next stop along the route is the Finger Lakes region, where you can enjoy the lakes, waterfalls, and some wine tasting.

From there, head to Saratoga Springs, known for horse racing and mineral baths.

After visiting Saratoga Springs, continue on to the Catskills Region, where you will find plenty of scenic views and hiking trails for hikers of all abilities.

Finish up your road trip in New York City, where you can visit the Statue of Liberty, The World Trade Center Memorial, Central Park, and Times Square, among many other iconic attractions!

We recommend taking a minimum of one week to fully experience all stops along this USA road trip route.

Miami to Key West Road Trip

From Hannah & Adam Lukaszewicz of Getting Stamped

If you’re looking for a tropical road trip, consider making the drive from Miami to Key West .

On this US road trip, you’ll travel through the islands that make up the Florida Keys on the “Overseas Highway.”

It’s said to be one of the best road trips in the country!

While the drive to Key West isn’t too far (165 miles), the stops and the scenic beauty along the way are what make it worthwhile. The road trip is full of fun and quirky things to do and see!

The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the Spiegel Grove Shipwreck are two great spots for exploring under the surface, where you’ll find coral reefs, sea life, and a sunken Navy ship.

For above the water, consider taking a cruise on The Africa Queen through the canals of Key Largo. 

There are great restaurants and bars along the way too.

Some popular stops include Plantation Key’s Mile Marker 88 Beach & Bar for all the tiki vibes, Islamorada Beer Company, and Robbie’s Restaurant, where you can feed tarpons from the dock. 

This road trip is best for a weekend (2-3 days).

New England

Made up of some of the USA’s smallest states, the northeast region of New England is one of the best places for a road trip in the USA.

Featuring historic cities (hello Boston !), adorable small towns, a rugged coastline, gorgeous harbors, and plenty of lighthouses, New England spots a charm and culture all its own.

Consider starting and ending your New England road trip in Boston, the region’s largest city and airport hub, where you can walk the Freedom Trail, stroll cobblestone lanes, and visit some of the most impressive universities and museums in the country.

From there, make your way to beautiful Acadia National Park in Maine, stopping at charming coastal villages like Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and Kennebunkport, Maine along the way–plus of course, a stop in the charming city of Portland.

On your way back south, drop by the White Mountain National Forest, and beautiful towns like Stowe, Vermont (legendary for its fall foliage) and Woodstock.

If you have time, head south of Massachusetts before heading back to Boston, visiting the Gilded Age mansions in Newport, Rhode Island, and the idyllic small town of Mystic, Connecticut.

To take a USA road trip through all six New England states, two weeks or more is best. 

However, with less time you can easily pick and choose a couple of states to visit and still have an amazing road trip experience!

Texas Hill Country

Tucked into the central part of the Lone Star State, west of both Austin and San Antonio, lies an oasis of beauty.

Visit the Texas Hill Country for sparkling rivers, charming small towns, incredible hiking, beautiful waterfalls, excellent Texas barbecue , magnificent wildflowers, and more wineries and distilleries than you can count.

Some of the best things to do in the Texas Hill Country include visiting the town of Fredericksburg, which is known for its German heritage, enjoying a wine tasting, exploring beautiful Wimberley, climbing Enchanted Rock, exploring dramatic limestone caves, sampling barbecue, and visiting some of the best swimming holes near Austin , including the legendary Hamilton Pool and Jacob’s Well.

Be sure to save time for a couple of state parks, as well!

In addition to Enchanted Rock, popular state parks in the Hill Country include Garner State Park, Guadalupe River State Park, and Colorado Bend State Park (home to 70-foot Gorman Falls).

The lakes are also unforgettable: don’t miss a chance to admire the beauty of Canyon Lake or Lake Travis during this incredible US road trip!

Even if you only have one day, it’s worth taking a quick Texas Hill Country road trip–but ideally, we recommend setting aside a week to explore.

While you can visit year-round, bluebonnet season (roughly late March-April) is undoubtedly the most scenic time to visit!

Northwest Arkansas

Packed with beautiful forests, idyllic hot springs, historic towns, and a lesser-known but beautiful national park, Northwest Arkansas is the perfect option for travelers looking for an interesting but off-the-beaten path US road trip destination.

Start your road trip at Hot Springs National Park, one of the only US national parks to be set in an urban (really, more like small-town) setting.

Nine historic bathhouses in the national park line Bathhouse Row, where visitors flocked to enjoy the local hot springs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

You can still soak in two of them today!

From there, head north all the way to Eureka Springs, which is known for its historic architecture, beautiful setting in the Ozark Mountains, and even more hot springs.

Along the way, consider detouring slightly to visit Hawksbill Crag (pictured below), one of the best viewpoints in Arkansas.

Whether you want to hike, soak, shop, or simply relax and enjoy the views, Northwest Arkansas is a delightful getaway.

This trip can be completed over a long weekend, but 5 days would be ideal.

From Carole of Travels With Carole

For one of the best road trips in Texas , begin in El Paso and head southeast. 

West Texas is filled with art, much of it BIG Texas art.

Before reaching the iconic West Texas art hub of Marfa , you’ll encounter some roadside art stops that include the “Giant” movie set installation featuring huge cutouts of stars Elizabeth Taylor, James Dean, and Rock Hudson.

This is followed by stops at the Prada Marfa store that never opens, and at the railroad-side World’s Smallest Target Store that is complete with a shopping cart. 

The tiny town of Marfa itself is home to the Chinati Foundation’s series of huge indoor and outdoor installations located on a former military base, as well as a plethora of art galleries–one of which displays Andy Warhol’s “The Last Supper.” 

In addition to art, Marfa has a viewing center where locals and visitors alike congregate at night hoping to see the area’s legendary and unexplained bouncing light orbs.

And if that’s not enough, you can also dine at the Stripes convenience store where Anthony Bourdain ate a fried burrito while filming what turned out to be his last episode of “Parts Unknown.” 

This is just the tip of the iceberg of a fascinating visit to this area. 

Allow 3 nights to visit this area and another night or two for an excursion to Big Bend National Park.

Northern Michigan

When considering the best road trips in America, the Great Lakes are often overlooked in favor of the Atlantic and Pacific coasts–but for a magnificent summer road trip through one of the USA’s hidden gems, head to northern Michigan.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on Lake Michigan and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on Lake Superior are located a mere five hours or so apart if you drive directly.

And, if you’ve never set eyes on the Great Lakes, this road trip will defy your expectations of what lakeshores look like!

Between them, be sure to take a step back in time at Mackinac Island, one of the best places to visit in Michigan.

Here’s the twist, though: no cars are allowed on the island, so you’ll need to leave yours on the mainland during your island escape!

Plan for about a week to make the most of this USA itinerary.

From Zach & Julie of Ruhls of the Road

Kauai is one of the most unique and beautiful destinations on earth.

However, when most people visit, they experience the inside of their resort and maybe a few beautiful places on day trips.

In truth, the best way to experience this incredible island is on a road trip to all of the best places on the island!

To start your Kauai road trip, go to the number one destination on the island: the Na Pali Coast.

The Na Pali Coast defies description, it is a place you have to see to believe.

The best way to see the area is on the Awa’awapuhi Trail, but make sure you hike the trail on a clear day for the best views!

From here, check out the Alakai Swamp, a boardwalk that also boasts incredible views.

As you leave the Na Pali Coast area, head down towards Waimea and see the Waimea Black Sand Beach.

Moving along the coast, stop at the Poipu area and see one of Kauai’s famous Hula shows.

Continue this coastal route and head into Wailua State Park. In this beautiful area, you’ll want to see Wailua Falls, Opaeka’a Falls, and hike the Kuilau Ridge.

The Kuilau Ridge Hike offers a 360-degree view of the Kauai landscape that will leave your jaw on the floor.

Finish your road trip by heading up to the Princeville area and checking out Queen’s Bath.

This is a beautiful tide pool that will make for the perfect ending to your Kauai road trip.

Make sure to check tides and go at low tide, as this area isn’t safe at high tide.

We recommend completing this Kauai road trip in 3 days.

Road to Hana, Maui

From Jess of I’m Jess Traveling

When you think of Hawaii you may not think of a road trip but prepare to have your mind altered.

When traveling on the island of Maui driving the Road to Hana is a must!

The scenic drive takes you from Kahului to the east side of the island to the town of Hana. 

The Road to Hana is 52 miles of one-lane bridges, hairpin turns, and curves.

This drive will take up an entire day so make sure you pack lots of snacks and fill up for gas beforehand.

The winding road takes you past jaw-dropping seascape views, roaring waterfalls, and exotic flora.

Some highlights of this drive include Ho’okipa, Twin Falls, the Painted Forest, Honomanu Bay, Wailua Falls, and the awe-inspiring Wai’anapanapa State Park.

Don’t forget to wear your bathing suit and pack a towel because pulling off the side of the road to take a dip in the ocean or swim under a waterfall is the name of the game.

Buckle up, enjoy the ride, and prepare for a trip of a lifetime.

You can drive the Road to Hana in a day, but if you’d like to savor the experience, consider camping or staying in Hana town for a few days to make sure you see all the best sights along this road trip in the USA.

Alaska Road Trip (Anchorage to Valdez)

From Wendy of Adventurous Retirement

Alaska is filled with excellent American road trip opportunities, especially in the summer.  

Start in Anchorage, when the museums are open.

Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center to learn about the indigenous people of the ‘last frontier’, and the Alaska Public Lands Information Center to learn about the history and culture of Alaska for free.

Take the Trolley tour for a fun overview of Anchorage, its history, and the earthquake of ‘64.

Ride the free shuttle to the Ulu factory, and check out the salmon runs at Ship Creek.

On day 2, head to Palmer and visit the Iditarod Museum before driving to Hatcher Pass.

Go to the high point for incredible views, hike the trails, and admire blue mountain lakes. 

Continue on this road to loop back to town.

From there, head to Matanuska Glacier, located one hour from Palmer. Spend day 4 hiking to and on the glacier. 

After that, drive toward Valdez Alaska on the Scenic Richardson Highway. It’s about 3 hours to Valdez.

Stop at Worthington Glacier Recreation Area to see the glacier or hike it. Stop at the various pullouts to view the waterfalls along Thompson Pass and the Highway.

If the salmon are spawning, visit Crooked Creek and see if you can spot a bear fishing for dinner.

While in and around Valdez, also consider taking an all-day wildlife glacier cruise, visiting the Valdez Museum and Annex, and visiting the Maxine & Jesse Whitney Museum.

This is a 5-day, 6-night road trip that keeps visitors busy every day. 

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

6 thoughts on “25 Best Road Trips in the USA (Itinerary Ideas + Tips!)”

Love all these ideas and inspiration for my next trip!

Thanks Jess! So hard to choose.

So many fantastic ideas – I can vouch for the awesomeness of WA, my home state! I am itching to get driving!

We are too! Hopefully we’ll all be able to soon. :-) We’d love to get back out west this year!

Everybody skips over Arkansas and Missouri when they suggest road trips, big mistake. Some of the best driving roads and scenery are located in the Ozarks and Quachita National Forests. Start in Springfield, Mo to the north. Stops could include Branson, Mo, Buffalo National River, Little Rock, Ar, Hot Springs, Ar, Talimena Scenic Drive from Mena, Ar then back north through the river valley of Fort Smith, Ar,, up Hwy 23 (Pig Trail) to Historic Victorian Eureka Springs, Ar. Then back to Springfield, Mo. You could easily spend 10-14 days on this road trip and see very diverse entertainment, scenery, hiking and waterfalls, mineral and hot springs, mountain and valley vistas. Best time to travel would be spring and/or fall. Scenery rivals anywhere in the country.

It is a beautiful part of the country! We actually visited Eureka Springs the weekend we got engaged, stayed at the Crescent. :-) We had someone signed up to contribute the Ozarks to this post but we haven’t heard back from them yet–maybe we’ll add it ourselves during a post update!

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Yes, you can cancel your car rental reservation for free up to 48 working hours before pick up . 

This cancellation protection is included with all car rental reservations made through Authentik USA's car rental platform.

Naturally, you can also make changes to your reservation (pick-up and return dates, type of car, etc.) at no extra charge, up to 48 working hours before pick up.

Bookings cannot be modified or cancelled less than 48 hours before pick up.

Why rent with Authentik?

Get behind the wheel of your rental car to discover the most beautiful destinations in the United States in complete freedom with a USA road trip .

Authentik’s car rental price comparison tool includes applicable taxes, unlimited mileage and basic insurance. Note that your booking can be cancelled free of charge up to 72 hours prior to your departure.

The website compares rentals from Avis, Budget, Thrifty, Alamo, Dollar and Enterprise. From San Francisco to Los Angeles, from Las Vegas to Phoenix, we always find the best price available.

You can rent a car at the airport or downtown at many destinations such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, Las Vegas and others.

Authentik USA also suggests exploring America's vast natural beauty at the wheel of a rental RV . This option is perfect for families who love the great outdoors.

Did you know that Authentik also offers car rentals in Canada ?

What type of driver's license do I need to rent a car in the U.S.?

Many travellers ask whether they need to have an international driver's license for their road trip in California or elsewhere in the U.S.

The answer is simple: it is best to have an international license when driving in the U.S. if you want to avoid any hassles and rent a car without difficulties. However, it is not mandatory.

According to U.S. law, your ESTA travel authorization and a valid license from your country of residence should be enough to rent a car.

But in practice, more and more car rental companies require an international license to rent a car. For this reason, it is advisable to find out before your USA road trip which companies require an international license.

Note that your license must use the Latin alphabet.

Principal and additional drivers must have had their driver's license for at least 12 months.

These conditions are different for car rental in Canada .

What is the minimum age for renting a car in the U.S.?

To rent a car in Las Vegas  or elsewhere in the U.S., you must be at least 21 years of age and have a credit card in your name for the deposit.

In addition, please note that drivers from 21 to 24 years of age are required to pay an additional fee to cover the higher insurance cost. This fee is about $30 a day.

Note that the driver's license of the principal driver and the credit card used for the deposit MUST be in the same name.

Do I need a child car seat?

For a Western USA road trip  or elsewhere in the U.S., child car seats must meet NHTSA Federal Safety Standards.

If your seat meets these standards, bring it! It’s free on the plane and your child will be as comfortable as at home.

Child car seats with an ISOFIX or LATCH system are authorized by car rental companies and the government.

If your seat does not have a LATCH/ISOFIX system or it is not certified FMVSS, you will not be covered by the rental company's basic insurance or additional insurance options .

In that case, you will need to rent a car seat with your vehicle. This option will be payable in advance or at the rental office, depending on the rental company.

Note that not all rental companies offer this option.

What is the price of gas in the USA?

When planning a Western USA road trip  or elsewhere in the U.S., you need to have a gas budget. 

Be aware of fluctuating gas prices. Finding a balance between comfort and consumption when choosing your rental vehicle can help you save on gas.

Gas generally costs about half as much in the U.S. as in Europe. Many websites provide up-to-the-minute gas prices in the U.S. Find out more by clicking below...

U.S. highway code

It's a good idea to learn about the American highway code before hitting the American roads.

And our blog article " Driving in the U.S ." points out things you'll need to watch out for when driving in the U.S.

Ideas for USA road trips to do by car

Check out our 100% customizable self-drive holidays  for inspiration when planning your trip to the land of Uncle Sam.

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Consult our Frequently Asked Questions to learn all about car rental in the United States.

Authentik also offers car rentals in  Canada , the  United Kingdom , Spain ,  Italy , Portugal ,  Iceland , and  Norway .

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Road Trips in the USA

Why are road trips popular in the usa.

Whether you want to relish the picturesque coasts of the Pacific Ocean or go for some adventure sites, a road trip easily covers anything and everything you wish to travel for, in the USA. Due to the size of the country, there is so much one can explore from the north to the south. The USA consists of some of the most popular destinations in the world like the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, and Miami — a city of beautiful turquoise beaches, and has the most famous road routes such as the Overseas Freeway, Big Sur, and Route 66.

For the people who love to travel, hitting the road for long drives is an adventure they never would want to miss, reason being road trips are immortalized part of the USA. As much as road trips are adventurous it requires a lot of guidance while on road. If you are looking forward to your next big road trip in the USA make sure to consider tips that would help you to enjoy the trip without any stress. Plan your trip according to the tips mentioned below to make the most out of what the USA has to offer.

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• One-way or Round Trip Car Rental
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Most Popular Road Trips in the USA

Los Angeles to San Francisco

• Distance: 381.8 mi via I-5 N
• Time: 5 hr 43 min

Los Angeles to Las Vegas

• Distance: 270.0 mi via I-15 N
• Time: 3 hr 53 min

Fort Lauderdale to Orlando

• Distance: 213.0 mi via I-95 N
• Time: 3 hr 7 min

Los Angeles to San Diego

• Distance: 120.3 mi via I-5 S
• Time: 1 hr 47 min

San Diego to Las Vegas

• Distance: 331.6 mi via I-15 N
• Time: 4 hr 54 min

San Diego to San Francisco

• Distance: 508.3 mi via I-5 N
• Time: 7 hr 46 min

Phoenix to Las Vegas

• Distance: 297 mi via US-93 N
• Time: 4 hr 45 min

Orlando to Miami

• Distance: 234.8 mi via Florida's Turnpike
• Time: 3 hr 27 min

Seattle to Portland

• Distance: 174 mi via I-5 S
• Time: 2 hr 50 min

5 Reasons why a car rental is the best choice:

• Plan your trip way ahead of the traveling day. If you are supposed to spend a longer time on the road it is important to priorly plan your itinerary like where you are to stay, which routes are to be followed, and what are you going to do along the way. In a vast country like the USA, it is easy to misjudge the time you would take to reach from point A to point B, planning ahead would help you to have a rough estimation of the days of your trip.
• Maps (both GPS and physical fold-outs) are one of the most important accessories for your road trip in the USA.
• Try not to get into the main city areas during rush hours, it is hectic and time-consuming.
• Know priorly about the driving rules for the US state you are in, the speed limits will change, and the driving rules might as well change in some locations, keep in mind to drive wisely.
• Make sure you have a road safety kit with you, this will be helpful in case of an emergency.

Types of Car Rentals Available for a Road Trip

Economy car rentals.

If you are looking for affordable rentals you can book an economy rental car. The cars are the cheaper among other rental options. The cars are fuel efficient, low maintenance, and offered on a cheap rates as well.

Compact Car Rentals

These cars are smaller in size, so when traveling light or in a small group, compact rental cars are the ideal choice. Most hatchbacks come under this category.

Full-Size Car Rentals

These cars have more boot space, so if you are looking for a spacious car, go for a standard size. Sedans and small SUVs come under this category.

Luxury Car Rentals

Mostly preferred by business personnel, luxury rental cars in the USA are the most comfortable cars. Choose from brands like Chevrolet, BMW, Audi, and Mercedes.

SUV Rentals

The most popular car rental type for USA road trips is an SUV or a standard car rental. SUVs are meant for heavy driving and have a powerful built, making them perfect for long drives.

Van/ Minivan Rentals

Renters looking for a vehicle for a bigger group, rent a van/minivan. The rentals come with 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, and 15 seater capacity.

One-Way or Round Trip for a Road Trip?

• A one-way car rental in the USA is an option where you can drop your car rental at a different location than you had picked it from. You can save a lot of your time with a one-way car rental.
• In a round trip car rental, you will have to return the car rental to the exact location you had made the pick-up from.
• Your car rental trip type will totally depend upon the itinerary you have planned. If you are to return to the city/location you had picked the car from, a round trip would be a suitable choice, but if you are a tourist and want to go a long way from the pick-up location, a one-way car rental is an ideal choice.
• Booking a car rental with USACarsRental allows you to drop your rental at the location you wish to. The website consists of locations including but not limited to the airports, railway stations, and most of the downtowns.

Car Rental Tips for a Trip in the USA

Rent a suitable car type, choose one-way car rental.

A one-way trip will allow you to drop off the rental at any other available location in the USA or Canada. One-way trips will incur extra charges. The charges are the cost of dropping the car to its original location.

Book a Car Rental in Advance

Book your car rental well in advance for discounted prices and a wider fleet to choose from. Car rental companies in the USA tend to provide lower prices for early bookings. .

Choose Full-to-Full Fuel Policy

In a car rental, you will get benefitting options such as a full-to-full fuel policy and unlimited mileage. You can save money by taking such small yet impactful decisions.

Keep all Required Documents Along

You will need a driver’s license (DL), an international driving permit (IDP) if your DL is not in Roman Alphabet, a credit card in the name of the main driver to pay the security deposit, and ID proof (preferably a passport if you supposed to travel outside the country or you are a tourist) to rent a car in the USA.

Opt for Useful Extras Only

You can also rent chargeable yet optional extras such as an extra driver, child booster seats, snow chains, GPS system.

Cross Country Road Trip from the USA to Canada

• People very often travel from the USA to Canada in a car rental and as you are crossing the border of the USA, it is known as a cross border or a cross country car rental. Car rental trips to Canada from the USA are as much as popular as road trips inside of the USA.
• Enjoy the Niagara Falls in Canada, discover the old Old Quebec, visit the naturally beautiful National Parks, or enjoy the city vibe around the CN Tower, a car rental is a perfect partner you would cherish your memories with.

FAQs Related to Road Trips in the USA

What are the documents required to rent a car for a road trip in the usa.

You would require a driver’s license, a credit card in the name of the main driver to pay the security deposit at the rental desk, and international ID proof (passport preferably) to rent a car in the USA.

What type of car rental is good for long-distance driving in the USA?

SUV rentals are the best when it comes to long-distance traveling in the USA. The cars are efficient, have good legroom, and have space for extra equipment and luggage you might be carrying on your trip.

How can I find a car rental near me, in the USA?

Search for your current location on the USACarsRental portal. As the website serves all the local and major car rental pick-up points you can easily find a car rental of your choice at your preferred location.

Can I rent a car in one location and return it to another, in the USA?

Yes, you can with a one-way car rental in the USA. You can choose a different car rental drop-off location than your pick-up location, be it inside the USA or outside of the USA such as Canada.

More options, More freedom

Holiday car rental usa.

Looking to rent a car for a holiday in the USA? Now book with flexibility of drop off locations and duration of your choice.

One way car rental

Your monthly car rental can also be a one way trip. Pick a different drop off location, and enjoy the freedom and save loads of time.

Long term car rental USA

A car rental type that allows you to rent a car for as long as you want. This flexibility and freedom only comes with long term car hire.

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Best Road Trip Cars in 2024 and 2025

We compiled a list of vehicles that are great for road trips. These vehicles are fuel-efficient, reliable, and comfortable, which will help you out on all of your highway adventures.

Kia Motors America |

The Best Cars, Minivans and SUVs for Road Trips

Summer is prime road trip season, whether that means hitting up a national park or getting together with family at a lakeside cabin. Choosing the right new car for an epic road trip can make your vacation more comfortable, more fuel efficient, and even safer, thanks to the new technologies found in many new vehicles. It can also mean less arguing, thanks to USB ports that keep devices charged, Wi-Fi hotspots that keep everyone entertained, and roomy back seats that keep siblings from touching.

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We've rounded up the best road trip vehicles available this summer, with everything from sports cars to pickups, with plenty of family-friendly SUVs on the list. As new information becomes available, we update our reviews, so the data found in these slides might not match those reviews exactly.

American Honda Motor Co., Inc. |

2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid

$34,050 | usn overall score: 8.0/10.

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid is a more fuel-efficient version of the popular compact SUV, with up to 43 mpg in the city. A 7-inch touch screen, smartphone connectivity, a Wi-Fi hotspot and four USB ports come standard to keep everyone powered up and entertained.

The interior is one of the nicest in the class, and the standard upholstery is stain-resistant. The seats are comfy in both rows, with room for adults to stretch out even on road trips. The rear seats recline, so whoever is off driving duty can take a nap. Standard adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist help reduce the fatigue that can come with hours of driving.

More on the 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid

• See 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid Photos  »
• Find the best price on the 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid »
• Read the 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid Full Review  »
• See Hybrid SUV Rankings  »

Volkswagen of America, Inc. |

2024 Volkswagen Atlas

$36,985 | usn overall score: 8.1/10.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas has enough room to bring along everybody and all their gear. It's available with either three rows of seating or two rows in the Cross Sport configuration. The third row is comfy for kids and adults on shorter trips. The Atlas has more cargo space behind the third row than most in its class.

Refreshed for 2024, in either configuration, a 12-inch touch screen with smartphone connectivity and a Wi-Fi hot spot are standard, along with wireless device charging and four USB ports. The Atlas can also tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly configured if you plan to bring a small camper or want to tow some toys for your vacation.

More on the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas

• See 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Photos  »
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• Read the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Full Review  »
• See Midsize SUV Rankings  »

Ford Motor Company |

2024 Ford Mustang

$30,920 | usn overall score: 8.1/10.

Sometimes you want to live the American road trip dream in an impractical sports car. But guess what – the redesigned 2024 Ford Mustang is a rather practical sports car. It's as exciting to drive as you could hope, and it still manages to turn in great fuel economy numbers that won't put a damper on your budget.

The Mustang's interior has been updated with a more modern, tech-forward look. Its standard infotainment system has a large 13.2-inch touch screen and a Wi-Fi hot spot. Standard safety tech includes automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. But maybe most importantly, for purposes of the dream, the Mustang is available as a convertible.

More on the 2024 Ford Mustang

• See 2024 Ford Mustang Photos  »
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• Read the 2024 Ford Mustang Full Review  »
• See Sports Car Rankings  »

General Motors |

2024 Chevrolet Suburban

$59,200 | overall score: 8.2/10.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban is the classic family road trip SUV, and it's the winner of our 2024 Best Large SUV for Families award. It's huge, with more cargo space than almost any SUV out there. It can be configured to seat up to nine people, though that means someone has to sit in the middle of the front bench seat. In any case, the third row provides enough legroom for adults.

The interior is sturdy enough for epic journeys, and it comes with an 8-inch touch screen, wireless smartphone connectivity and six USB ports. Depending on how you configure it, the Suburban can tow up to 8,300 pounds, enough for the average camper. It also comes with driver-assistance features like lane-departure warning and lane-keep assist.

More on the 2024 Chevrolet Suburban

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• Read the 2024 Chevrolet Suburban Full Review  »
• See Large SUV Rankings  »

2024 Kia Carnival

$33,600 | overall score: 8.2/10.

The 2024 Kia Carnival makes a strong case for the classic family minivan as the ultimate road-trip vehicle, especially with pricing that's among the most affordable on this list. It comes with a good list of standard safety features for long drives, including lane-keep assist and blind-spot monitoring.

The interior is upholstered with easy-to-clean materials, and all three rows have enough room for adults, though the third row has a bit less legroom than the first two. It also has lots of cargo space, even with all three rows in use. If you don't need the last row for passengers, it folds flat into the floor for even more cargo space. An 8-inch touch screen, smartphone compatibility and a whopping seven USB ports come standard.

More on the 2024 Kia Carnival

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• See Minivan Rankings  »

Stellantis |

2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

$53,425 | usn overall score: 8.3/10.

The plug-in hybrid 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid achieves up to 30 mpg in combined driving when operating in hybrid mode, which is great for any minivan. Once you reach your destination, plug this family hauler in overnight to be able to drive about 32 miles on electric power.

There's also a ton of tech included, like a 10.1-inch touch screen, wireless smartphone connectivity and Amazon Alexa compatibility. All three rows of seating have lots of head- and legroom, and there's plenty of storage space. Standard safety features include stop-and-go adaptive cruise control and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

More on the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

• See 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Photos  »
• Find the best price on the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid »
• Read the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Full Review  »

John M. Vincent | U.S. News & World Report

2024 Lincoln Navigator

$82,765 | usn overall score: 8.6/10.

Wherever your road trip takes you, the 2024 Lincoln Navigator will make sure you arrive in comfort and style. It's one of the best luxury large SUVs, with a well-built and high-quality interior. Standard features include a 13.2-inch touch screen, wireless smartphone connectivity, a Wi-Fi hotspot and five USB ports.

Every seat in all three rows is comfortable, and the available L model adds extra space to an already roomy cargo area. Though the Navigator is large, its powerful engine easily gets it up to speed on the highway. Standard safety features like lane-keep assist and stop-and-go adaptive cruise control can help reduce driver fatigue too.

More on the 2024 Lincoln Navigator

• See 2024 Lincoln Navigator Photos  »
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• Read the 2024 Lincoln Navigator Full Review  »
• See Luxury Large SUV Rankings  »

Hyundai Motor America |

2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

$32,575 | usn overall score: 8.6/10.

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is among the best in its class and was a finalist for our Best Hybrid SUV for the Money and Best Hybrid SUV for Families awards this year. The regular hybrid is the best for road tripping, with up to 38 mpg on the highway. But it doesn't sacrifice power for efficiency, with enough get-up-and-go for passing on the highway. All-wheel drive is standard for a sure-footed feel.

Inside, there's tons of room for adults in both rows of seating and a huge cargo area. A 10.25-inch touch screen is standard, along with Apple CarPlay , Android Auto , four USB ports and wireless device charging.

GENESIS MOTOR AMERICA |

2024 Genesis G90

$89,200 | usn overall score: 8.7/10.

If your road-trip budget allows for a little luxury. the 2024 Genesis G90 delivers. It has a capable V6 and an optional mild-hybrid powertrain that improves acceleration when passing on the highway. The available air suspension makes long drives a dream, and the extensive list of standard safety features–including adaptive cruise control and a head-up display–eases the tedium of driving.

The Nappa leather interior wraps the road tripper in luxury, and both rows of seating are comfortable for adults. The trunk is large enough for several suitcases, and it opens automatically as you approach. The G90 also has one of the longest powertrain warranties in the business.

More on the 2024 Genesis G90

• See 2024 Genesis G90 Photos  »
• Find the best price on the 2024 Genesis G90 »
• Read the 2024 Genesis G90 Full Review  »
• See Luxury Large Car Rankings  »

2025 Ram 1500

$40,275 | usn overall score: 8.7/10.

If your road trip plan involves a camper or boat, you'll want to look into the 2025 Ram 1500 . When properly equipped, it can tow up to 11,580 pounds. As with most pickups, you can configure the 1500 in whatever way works for you, with bed, cab and powertrain options in addition to trim levels and packages to add on.

All of the available body styles have a spacious, high-quality interior. Quite a few safety features are standard, including stop-and-go adaptive cruise control and rear cross-traffic alert. The infotainment system got an upgrade for the 2025 model year, which means even more available features, including three screen sizes, three sound systems, and a long list of available tech features.

More on the 2025 Ram 1500

• See 2025 Ram 1500 Photos  »
• Find the best price on the 2025 Ram 1500 »
• Read the 2025 Ram 1500 Full Review  »
• See Full Size Pickup Truck Rankings  »

2024 Honda Civic

$23,950 | usn overall score: 8.7/10.

You probably need one car to handle both the daily commute and the road trip vacation, and you need it to be affordable. Enter the 2024 Honda Civic . It's one of the best compact cars in its class, and we named it the 2024 Best Compact Car for the Money . All of its scores are high, especially when it comes to safety. It has the lowest MSRP on our list yet comes standard with desirable amenities like adaptive cruise control and traffic-sign recognition. It's also thrifty, with up to 42 mpg on the highway.

A 7-inch touch screen and smartphone connectivity come standard. The front seats in particular are supportive over the long haul, and the Civic has more overall interior space than most rivals.

More on the 2024 Honda Civic

• See 2024 Honda Civic Photos  »
• Find the best price on the 2024 Honda Civic »
• Read the 2024 Honda Civic Full Review  »
• See Compact Car Rankings  »

Road Trip Car Characteristics

Passenger space: People turn cranky when they aren't comfortable after hours on the road. There needs to be space for everyone to stretch out.

Cargo space: At the very minimum, you'll be bringing luggage along and maybe also camping gear or tubes for floating the river. Make sure there's space for your gear.

Fuel economy: Stopping for gas on a road trip can get expensive. Fuel efficiency, particularly from hybrid powertrains, can ease the pain of stopping at the pump.

Infotainment: An AM/FM radio is no longer sufficient for most people. An infotainment system that's easy to use while driving and can connect to smartphones is key.

Safety tech: Driving long distances causes fatigue, and fatigue causes accidents. Modern driver-assistance features can help you stay alert and in your lane.

Reliability: No one wants to be the car in the breakdown lane while on their road trip. A good predicted reliability score shows that a particular model has on average been a solid performer over time.

Genesis Motor America |

Road Trip Car FAQs

What is the best car for road trips.

The best car for road trips is the one that fits your budget and your needs, so there's no one vehicle that will work for everybody. That said, the 2024 Honda Civic is a strong pick. It provides comfort, features, safety and reliability, and all for one of the lowest price tags on this list.

What is the best SUV for road trips?

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid combines a long list of standard features with great fuel economy, and it has one of the most spacious interiors in its class.

What is the best luxury car for road trips?

The 2024 Genesis G90 will take you anywhere in comfort and style. Most of its best features are standard, including leather upholstery.

What is the most comfortable car for long trips?

On a list of very comfortable vehicles, the 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid is probably the most comfortable, especially for back-seat passengers who can take advantage of the reclining seats. If comfort is your priority, take a look at our list of most comfortable cars for more options.

U.S. News and World Report |

More Shopping Tools From U.S. News & World Report

Plenty of families take road trips, so you might want to check out the winners of our 2023 Best Cars for Families awards too. Maybe you've been left stranded on an unfamiliar road by your former car and are looking for the most reliable cars available. If you know you need to bring along a lot of gear, see our roundup of compact SUVs with the most cargo space .

When you're ready to buy a new car, use our Best Price Program to pre-negotiate a great price with a local dealership. You can arrange for online buying and even vehicle delivery through the program.

U.S. News & World Report |

Best Cars for Road Trips in 2024 and 2025

• 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid: $34,050 | USN Overall Score: 8.0/10
• 2024 Volkswagen Atlas: $36,985 | USN Overall Score: 8.1/10
• 2024 Ford Mustang: $30,920 | USN Overall Score: 8.1/10
• 2024 Chevrolet Suburban: $59,200 | Overall Score: 8.2/10
• 2024 Kia Carnival: $33,600 | Overall Score: 8.2/10
• 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid: $53,425 | USN Overall Score: 8.3/10
• 2024 Lincoln Navigator: $82,765 | USN Overall Score: 8.6/10
• 2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid: $32,575 | USN Overall Score: 8.6/10
• 2024 Genesis G90: $89,200 | USN Overall Score: 8.7/10
• 2025 Ram 1500: $40,275 | USN Overall Score: 8.7/10
• 2024 Honda Civic: $23,950 | USN Overall Score: 8.7/10

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DISCOVER THE ULTIMATE AMERICAN ROAD TRIP

Consider us your very own expert USA road trip planner - we've created 52 bespoke and unique routes that take in everything from the tried and tested to the wild and weird. Simply choose the area you want to start in, select the kind of things that interest you and let us whisk you away. 1.0.0.20 1.0.0.20

Want some instant inspiration? Dive into our top West Coast, East Coast and Southern USA road trips. Download these road trip ideas and plot your way across and around this amazing country, whether it's just the two of you, or a family road trip with kids. 1.0.0.20 1.0.0.20

Appalachian Trail

Georgia - Maine

Take the Appalachian Trail challenge for some of the US’ best scenery.

Cross-Country Sporting Successes

Kentucky - Massachusetts

Sporting history is made and celebrated at this selection of landmarks and stadiums.

Eat the East Coast

New Orleans - New York

Good food, great locations – enjoy an East Coast culinary adventure in style.

Filming locations

New York - Minnesota

See a feast of famous film locations on this star-studded jaunt across the East.

ROADTRIP_FILTER_ROUTES

How long is your trip?

What type of car would you like to drive, getting your kicks.

Illinois - California

Get your kicks on Route 66 – America’s legendary cross-country route – for a taste of old-fashioned Americana.

Totally Texas

Texas - Texas

Big, bold and beautiful – uncover the wonders of the Lone Star State.

Roaring Twenties Chicago

Illinois - Illinois

Take a Lindy Hop back in time on our Roaring Twenties road trip of Chicago’s most iconic sights. Experience the razzle dazzle of the historic theater, trace the footsteps of bootleggers and try plenty of deep-dish pizza along the way.

Ghost towns of the West

California - Arizona

• 1,346 miles

Discover the deserted delights of America’s wilderness in this trip through its ghost towns.

The Road to Civil Rights

Atlanta - Louisiana

Explore the towns and landmarks that played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights struggle of the 1950s and 60s.

Haunted America

New York - Philadelphia

Visit eerie lighthouses, sinister state buildings and a town synonymous with witches on this ghost-packed US road trip. Welcome to Haunted America.

Magical Lighthouses of Maine

York - Lubec

Discover lighthouses, oysters and beautiful cities with this Maine road trip, exploring some of the most peaceful spots in New England.

Into the Valleys

Arizona - Oregon

• 1,764 miles

Visit the West Coast’s most beautiful old scenery with some massive landmarks along the way.

Colorado Ski Adventure

Colorado - Colorado

From the Wild West and haunted hotels to sublime slopes and plenty in between, enjoy an awe-inspiring adventure in Colorado.

Full-On Florida

Orlando - Key Largo

Whether you want theme parks or nature parks, fun, sun and culture await in the Sunshine State.

Pacific Coast Paradise

Washington - California

See the stunning West Coast of the USA with quirky stops and breathtaking natural scenery.

The Stargazing States

Wyoming - Nebraska

• see notes miles

Be inspired to look to the heavens with our guide to the very best US stargazing spots.

Pop Culture Cruisin’

If you like US pop culture, this tour of famous TV, music and film locations is for you.

Best of the Midwest

Missouri - Kansas

Whether you want the Windy City or the lush rolling hills, the Midwest has it all.

A Carolina Christmas

North Carolina - South Carolina

• 7 to 9 days

When the holiday season arrives, the Carolinas transforms into a festive wonderland, ready to discover on our magical Christmas road trip.

Roads Paved With Gold

Utah - California

Follow the spread of the gold rush across the country to some scenic destinations.

Deep in the heart of Texas

They say everything’s bigger in Texas – that includes the fun you’ll have at these legendary Texan landmarks.

The Oregon Trail

Missouri - Oregon

Follow the pioneers of American life on the frontier with this fact-filled jaunt across the States.

The Grand Circle

Nevada - Nevada

Get your camera ready for some of the USA’s most majestic national landmarks – and a few surprises too.

The Weird, Weird West

Washington - Nevada

See the weird and wonderful sights of the West with this quirky road trip through the States.

Great River Road

Minnesota - Louisiana

Follow the world’s fourth-longest river through some amazing US destinations and see some cultural icons.

Grit, Gangsters and Gasoline

New York - Illinois

Discover the murky past of the United States with these notorious historical landmarks.

Surfing California

San Diego - San Francisco

Hit the waves at California’s coolest destinations for a stellar surfing adventure.

Interstate 90

Montana - Cleveland

Drive this legendary stretch of highway for awe-inspiring historical landmarks and quirky art projects.

Roller Coaster Tour

Wisconsin - New Jersey

Not for the faint-hearted - enjoy the thrills and spills of the USA’s best roller coasters.

Sounds of the South

Tennessee - Louisiana

From Presley to Parton, this trip is for fans of good ol’ grassroots American music.

Hotshot Hawaii

Honolulu - Honolulu

Experience the magic behind the movies by checking out beaches and forests on O’ahu that feature in Hollywood epics, on our Hawaiian Hotshots road trip.

Shopping, Sights & Sidewalks

Boston - Virginia

In need of some retail therapy? Visit the States’ best known shopping destinations.

The Dakotas

South Dakota - South Dakota

For a fascinating mix of nature and historical landmarks, look no further than the Dakota circuit.

Natural California

Joshua Tree National Park - Mosaic Canyon

• 1,516 miles

Explore famous national parks, camp beneath the stars and visit iconic film locations on this epic California road trip.

To Florida and Beyond

Texas - Florida

Head across the southeast for some family fun in the theme park capital of the USA.

The Rocky Mountains Road

Montana - New Mexico

Drive the Rocky Mountains Road for the best scenery and wildlife the States has to offer.

Great Heights Tour

• 1,491 miles

Leave the casinos and high rollers of Las Vegas behind and discover the Silver State’s rugged landscapes, on this thrilling Nevada road trip.

One Small Step

Washington - Texas

Take a space-themed tour through America on this Apollo 11, lunar landing-inspired road trip, taking in Cape Canaveral, Florida, and Houston, Texas.

Canyons of Arizona & Nevada

Phoenix - Nevada

Drive through the vast valleys and dramatic canyons of America’s west on this route through Arizona and Nevada.

Utah's Mighty Five

Salt Lake City - Zion National Park

Discover a world of geological wonders in the Beehive State with our Mighty Five road trip across Utah.

Nascar Homelands

Daytona - Charlotte

Follow in the footsteps of NASCAR heroes, visit iconic racetracks and trace the history of an all-American motorsport on this US road trip. Rev your engines.

Awesome Arizona

Tucson - Grand Canyon

Experience the Copper State’s dizzying peaks and dramatic depths on our Awesome Arizona road trip.

Mighty Michigan

Bay City - Grand Haven

Start planning a journey through the Great Lake State on our Mighty Michigan road trip. Check out our route map to explore the rural beauty that awaits.

Mother’s Day Weekend Road Trip Getaway

Balboa Park, San Diego - Downtown Alameda, San Francisco

Treat Mom to a memorable adventure this Mother’s Day weekend on our West Coast getaway road trip.

Spring Golf Season

Davenport - The Prairie Club

The Midwest contains some of the country’s finest golf courses and our spring golf season road trip takes you through Iowa and Nebraska’s fantastic fairways.

New Hampshire Road Trip – Scaling the White Mountain State

Manchester, NH - Concord

• 5 to 6 days

Scale the White Mountain State on our New Hampshire road trip. Discover authentic New England on scenic drives, explore quaint cities and reach epic peaks.

Eat the West Coast

Hollywood - Seattle

From Hollywood’s finest celeb eateries and quaint bistros hidden under Californian palms, to riverside restaurants and markets in the soul of Seattle, the west coast has it all.

Captivating Colors

Guilford - Portland

• 4 to 5 days

Experience fall foliage in New England with our Captivating Colors road trip. Peep the best leaves and see spectacular sights along the way on our route.

Summer on the Oregon Coast

Portland - Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest

• 5 to 7 days

Spend your summer exploring the Oregon coast on our road trip. Wander through the wilderness, traverse mountains and enjoy incredible viewpoints today.

Robert Trent Jones Trail

Alabama - Alabama

• 831.5 miles
• 11 to 14 days days

After collecting your rental car in Mobile, the first course is a short drive northwest. Golf Digest recently named Magnolia Grove as one of the world’s top 50 golf courses. Featuring three newly renovated courses, the 54 holes are set in acres of open parkland. The lakes and pines of the Crossings course have hosted several LPGA Tour events too, including the Airbus LPGA Classic. Need accommodation? Check out Mobile’s historic Malaga Inn. It features an array of Southern Living-style rooms and suites.

Veterans Day Trail

Arlington - New York

Discover fascinating military history and commemorate those who have served in our armed forces on our Veterans Day Trail road trip.

Go Green for St Patrick’s

New York City - Boston

Experience St Patrick’s Day like never before with our Irish-American road trip, from Boston to NYC. Plan your St Paddy’s celebrations with Hertz today.

Your trip to the USA

Find more information on USA car hire, destinations and our car collections.

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Best things to do in san francisco, best things to do in denver, best things to do in los angeles, top usa car rental locations, orlando airport, boston airport.

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Cheap flights from London to the USA

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Book now for great rates on USA road trip car hire!

There is no better way to witness the diversity of America than on an adventure by road. With Netflights.com you can book your USA road trip car hire with confidence - all Alamo car hire has fully inclusive insurance with ZERO EXCESS and 24-hour breakdown assistance.

We also offer FREE CANCELLATIONS and NO AMENDMENT FEES on car rental bookings.

Route 66 car hire from £14.22 per day

Take a trip along Route 66 and journey to the heart of America. Travel from the shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago to the golden beaches of California, taking in the quirky attractions and diners and magnificent landscape.

Route 66 one way car hire!

California road trips

Discover the breathtaking beauty of California on the Pacific Coast Highway. Whether exploring the cities San Francisco, LA and Sna Diego, wine tasting in Napa Valley or just taking in the miles of stunning beaches, California has it all. 

PLUS all California rentals include one free additional driver.

One way car hire

Florida road trips.

Explore Florida in the comfort of your own vehicle taking in the beautiful coastline, the National Parks or the cities of Miami, Orlando and Tampa. Plus..NO ONE WAY RENTAL FEE within the state of Florida. 

Top Reasons to Book Car Hire with Alamo 

• - Fully inclusive car hire with no hidden costs - including insurance and 24 hour breakdown assistance
• - Fully Incluive car hire with ZERO EXCESS
• - FREE one-way rentals with Florida and all airport locations within and between Nevada, California and Arizona
• - The official Walt Disney World partner in Florida with exclusive locations
• - 'Alamo Save Time' option to speed up your rental process 
• - Select you own vehicle, in the category you have confirmed, from a number of 'Choice Locations' - including Orlando, Miami, and Las Vegas
• - Newest and largest fleet around, giving a fantastic choice of reliable vehicles 
• - Additional package upgrades available to include fuel, additional drivers and sat nav
• - Unlimited mileage

USA travel guide

Take a look at our handy USA travel guide before you plan your USA road trip to make sure that you don't miss out on any of the iconic sights, unique cities or historic landmarks along your route.

•   San Francisco guide
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• View all USA guides

With Netflights, you can sit back and relax as you witness the epic changing landscapes of the USA - from urban metropolis of the east coast change into the pristine beaches of California.

The car hire prices above are for just a small selection of the USA’s most popular road trip routes; picking up your car at your arrival destination and then returning it when your break finishes. All car hire with Alamo is fully inclusive - meaning that you will have 24 hour roadside assistance and a choice of vehicle at the depot.  Netflight.com offers car hire in most cities across America – if you are looking for car hire in a different USA destination please use the search box on the left or call 01772 386386  

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The flight-inclusive holidays on this website which depart from the UK are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. This website is intended primarily to residents of the UK and all bookings are subject to our terms and conditions found here . But ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services listed (e.g car hire or accommodation only bookings). Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking. If you do not receive an ATOL certificate then the booking will not be ATOL protected. If you do receive an ATOL Certificate but all the parts of your trip are not listed on it, those parts will not be protected. Please see our booking conditions for information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL certificate go to: www.caa.co.uk/ATOLCertificate.

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