11 Epic Family Road Trip Ideas: Tried And Tested
A family road trip can be an adventure of a lifetime. You’ll discover new places and share unique experiences together, providing unforgettable memories and plenty of opportunities for family bonding.
We have taken family road trips in Europe, the Americas, Oceania, Asia and Egypt ranging from between a few days to two months.
Let us inspire you by taking you on a journey through breathtaking coastal drives and picturesque landscapes. Our tried and tested family road trip ideas cater for families of all sizes and interests, so buckle up and prepare to be inspired!
Family Road Trip: Overview
Planning a road trip can be daunting, but done well, the journey can be as much a part of the adventure as any destination along the way.
Escape your daily routines and responsibilities and replace them with exploration, discovery, and quality bonding time; these are the magic ingredients for the perfect road trip.
The reasons to embark on a family road trip are as numerous as the miles you’ll cover. It is an opportunity to disconnect from technology and connect with each other, strengthening family bonds.
Soaking up your surroundings while travelling gives you a genuine appreciation for the natural beauty in even the most austere environments. The sheer scale of our planet is much more apparent when you are on the road rather than flying somewhere at 500mph and 40,000 feet!
Whether exploring new destinations or revisiting familiar ones, a family road trip is a chance to celebrate a journey of togetherness and create a new chapter in your family’s life story.
Family road trip ideas
From exploring stunning national parks and scenic coastal routes to immersing yourselves in cultural experiences and discovering hidden gems on and off the beaten track, there is a family road trip idea for everyone.
Road trips don’t have to be elaborate or expensive. If you have an idea, there will be a way to make it work for your family.
We at Trekking The Dream have fond memories of each family road we have been on worldwide (and the meltdowns from being cooped up together!) and invite you to share our most recent family road trip ideas.
1. California and Nevada loop, USA
This road trip offers a mix of natural wonders, cultural attractions, and plenty of family-friendly activities.
Route: Los Angeles-Las Vegas-Tonopah-Lee Vining-Yosemite NP-San Francisco-Santa Cruz-Monterey-Big Sur-Morro Bay-Santa Maria-Santa Barbara-Santa Monica-Los Angeles
Highlights:
- See famous sights like Hollywood and the Golden Gate Bridge
- Soak up the uniqueness of Las Vegas
- View the spectacular Pacific Ocean views along the Big Sur
- Stroll along beaches, build sandcastles and surf the waves
- Stop in charming coastal towns like Santa Barbara and Monterey
- Explore Yosemite National Park and see the Giant Sequoias
On this round-trip, you can enjoy breathtaking ocean views, visit coastal towns, and explore iconic landmarks such as Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and the Big Sur. Spend some time inland, exploring national parks.
For adrenaline junkies, there are several world-famous theme parks, such as Disney and Universal Studios, to entertain all ages!
In August, we travelled across California over three weeks in an RV. The sheer variety of landscapes and stunning beauty kept us all engaged, with our kids being particularly impressed with a bear sighting in Lee Vining.
We have never felt more remote than in the Nevada desert.
The giant Sequoias in Yosemite National Park must be seen in person to appreciate their size; the largest of these magnificent trees are around 3,000 years old. We all enjoyed observing the Elephant Seals near San Simeon and were surprised at how fast such large animals could move across the sand.
A combination of multiple sunsets, pleasant weather and a wide variety of activities made this road trip an all-round success and one we heartily recommend!
Ideal Duration: 14+days
Best time to road trip: Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) when the weather is pleasant, the crowds are smaller, and stargazing is at its best.
2. North Coast 500, Scotland
This scenic road trip offers a mix of stunning landscapes, wildlife, castles, cultural attractions, and plenty of family-friendly hikes. The entire loop is 516 miles (830 km).
Route: Inverness-Thurso-Durness-Ullapool-Gairloch-Apple Cross-Muir of Ord-Inverness
Highlights:
- Soak up the spectacular scenery and rugged coastline
- Hike forgotten peaks such as Ben Hope
- Take in castles, monuments and historical points of interest
- Explore the wildest tip of Scotland at Duncansby Head
- Step foot on pristine and deserted beaches
- Spot an array of wildlife, including red deer, puffins and whales
The iconic North Coast 500 has breathtaking landscapes at every stage of the journey. Rugged coastlines, towering cliffs, serene lochs, and dramatic mountain ranges like the Torridon and Assynt are some of the sights that will delight you.
You’ll experience the rich history of Scotland’s North Coast while driving through remote picturesque villages, visiting ancient castles, and soaking in the beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
We self-drove and camped along the way, taking two weeks to complete this budget friendly route in early October. We recommend you take a minimum of 5-7 days to ensure you don’t feel rushed and make the most of the trip.
Ideal Duration: 5 to 14+ days
Best time to road trip: Summer months (June – August) offer longer daylight hours and pleasant temperatures, making it a popular time to visit. May and September/October are less crowded but still with the possibility of good weather.
3. East Coast Australia
A diverse road trip with a mix of beaches, outdoor activities and cultural experiences for all the family.
Route: Sydney-Blue Mountains NP-Port Macquarie-Byron Bay-Gold Coast-Brisbane-Noosa-Hervey Bay-Eungella-Airlie-Mission Beach-Atherton Tablelands-Port Douglas-Daintree Rainforest-Cairns
Highlights:
- Take in iconic sites, including the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge
- Learn about and Snorkel over one of the Natural Wonders of the World
- Spot unique wildlife in their natural environment, such as kangaroo, cassowary and platypus
- Visit outstanding natural beauty at beaches, hinterlands and rainforests
- Delve into diverse ecosystems, indigenous cultures and Australian history
This is a classic Australian road trip from Sydney to Cairns along the stunning East Coast.
Explore vibrant cities, relax on sun-soaked beaches, and snorkel through the Great Barrier Reef. Be awestruck by lush rainforests as you discover unique trees and wildlife, including the elusive cassowary and platypus.
This journey has diverse experiences, from city life to tropical adventures, making it an ideal choice for families looking for relaxation and adventure.
We covered over 2,500 miles in five weeks, living in a motorhome in September-October.
Beach days were spent snorkelling, surfing and spotting dolphins (they were at every beach). We also saw whales migrating at Byron Bay, native platypus in two locations, a cassowary, saltwater crocodiles, possums, snakes, koalas and kangaroos – and a vast array of birds and insects (collectively known as critters!).
Ideal Duration: 4+ weeks
Best time to road trip: The Australian summer (December-February) is ideal for beach activities. However, other seasons can be great, too, depending on the region you plan to visit.
4. Italy
Enjoy a cultural road trip, taking in significant landmarks and delving into Roman history, natural beauty and fantastic food.
Route: Rome-Florance-Pisa-Dolomites-Venice
Highlights:
- Explore charming Italian villages and cities
- Enjoy delicious cuisine and gelato in Italy
- Cultural landmarks like the Vatican and the Colosseum
- Hiking adventures in the Dolomite mountains
- Navigate the labyrinth of canals in Venice
This mesmerizing road trip through Italy is filled with history, art, and mouth-watering cuisine. Drive through the charming countryside, visit iconic cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, and indulge in authentic Italian gelato. This family road trip delves into the rich cultural heritage of Italy and experiences the country’s unparalleled beauty, one of many reasons to visit.
Italy is straightforward to navigate by car, bus and train. We travelled in April (very busy with tourists!) by car and bus.
Our history-enthusiastic son shared his extensive knowledge of the Roman Empire (no tour guide needed!) while soaking up the sights. Of course, being in Italy, we ate superb pizza, pasta and gelato!
Hiking in the Dolomites was a break from the hustle of the busy cities. The views were amazing. We only scratched the surface and will return!
Ideal Duration: 10+days
Best time to road trip: Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer mild temperatures and fewer tourists than the busy summer months.
5. Big Island, Hawaii
Take a captivating journey through diverse landscapes, from rainforest to desert to volcanic craters.
Route: Kailua Kona-Waikoloa-Hawi-Mauna Kea-Hilo-Volcano NP-Kailua Kona
Highlights:
- Discover the beauty of Hawaii’s diverse landscapes
- Watch the sunset from Mauna Kea Observatory
- Visit Volcano National Park
- Snorkel with a vast array of sealife
- Explore volcanic black and unique green sand beaches
Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Hawaii’s Big Island on this family road trip. Discover stunning waterfalls, hike through volcanic landscapes, and relax on black or green sand beaches. From exploring Hawaii Volcano National Park to stargazing atop Mauna Kea, this road trip offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation in a tropical paradise.
Hawaii is a perfect family road trip destination with lots of variety.
We hired a jeep and stayed in accommodation in different areas. This allowed us to travel around the island in August, which is straightforward as there are only a few major roads.
The snorkelling was outstanding and suitable for all ages and abilities. We completed several hikes, our favourite being through a desert to one of only four green beaches worldwide.
We enjoyed walking through lava tubes, over lava fields, hiking an active volcano and learning about the history of Hawaii.
Ideal Duration: 7+ days
Best time to road trip: Any time of year is fantastic for visiting Hawaii, with temperatures remaining fairly consistent throughout the year. However, try to avoid the rainy season from November to March.
6. New Zealand
Combine the North and South Islands for an active family road trip adventure. With outstanding natural beauty at every turn, travelling by road is the best way to ensure you make the most of your time.
Route: Christchurch-Queenstown-Milford Sounds-Nelson-Wellington-Tongariro-Rotorua-Auckland
Highlights:
- Wildlife encounters with blue penguins, dolphins, fur seals and kiwi
- Experience geothermal activity on the North Island
- Gain a deep cultural understanding of Maori heritage through dance and art
- Savour culinary delights involving seafood and lamb
- Explore lakes, waterfalls, volcanoes, beaches, fjords, mountains and glaciers
- Hike, bungee, kayak, cycle and raft through charming surroundings
A road trip has to be the best way to experience the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand. This epic south-to-north road trip will have you driving through stunning fjords, soaking in hot springs, and discovering the magical landscapes showcased in Lord of the Rings movies.
This trip is a real feast for the senses, from the Southern Alps to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua and glow worms, steaming geysers and world-class hiking.
New Zealand was so much more than we were expecting. We explored at our own pace in a motorhome in October. Our kids learnt Māori dancing and watched live glass blowing, insisting we purchased the resulting pink vase as a permanent reminder of our trip.
Note: if you are time-limited or want to explore at a slower pace, there are plenty of things to see and do on the North or South Islands alone.
Ideal Duration: 21+ days
Best time to road trip: Summer (December-February) offers the best weather, but shoulder seasons like spring (September-November) and Autumn (March-May) can provide pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
7. Hanoi to Hoi An, Vietnam
Dig into this diverse country with its vibrant traditions, from cuisine to culture, dark history and stunning natural landscape.
Route: Hanoi-Ha long Bay-Tam Coc-Hue-Hoi An
Highlights:
- Dive into Vietnamese culture, history, and cuisine
- Explore the ancient capital city for a glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial past
- Cruise in Halong Bay and cycle through Tam Coc
- Float lanterns on the river in the charming town of Hoi An
- Learn about wartime history by visiting Vinh Moc Tunnels in the De-Militarised Zone
This is an immersive, cultural road trip through Vietnam from Hanoi to Hoi An. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the bustling markets, be captivated by the country’s gems, and indulge in Vietnam’s famous mouth-watering street food.
Halong Bay and Tam Coc’s stunning limestone casts are worth exploring. We navigated the unique cave systems by small boats (some powered by feet instead of hands). Our kids enjoyed going deep underground in the Vinh Moc tunnels, where a village lived for years during the war in 1966-1972.
We witnessed the celebration of TET (Lunar New Year) with a big street party and fireworks in Hue. Children and older people receive red envelopes containing lucky money, which our kids received from the hotel.
Ideal Duration: 10+ days
Best time to road trip: During spring (March-April) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild and there is less chance of rain.
8. Sri Lanka
Discover the hidden beauty of this culture-rich country that offers fantastic experiences for the whole family.
Route: Colombo-Hikkaduwa-Udawalawa-Mirissa-Ella-Kandy-Sigyaria-Colombo
Highlights:
- Dive into Sri Lankan culture, history, landscape and cuisine
- Explore ancient cities and the stunning rock fortress of Sigiriya
- Enjoy beautiful beaches perfect for surfing or whale watching
- Learn about tea plantations and spice gardens
- Spot animals on safari, including elephants and leopards
Take your family on an extraordinary road trip adventure through the teardrop-shaped island of Sri Lanka. Marvel at ancient temples, spot wildlife on safari in national parks or surf off the pristine beaches while catching stunning sunsets.
Whether exploring the cultural triangle, climbing Sigiriya Rock, taking a train ride or hiking through the lush tea plantations, Sri Lanka offers the whole family a diverse range of things to do.
This is one of our top must-visit countries with kids. We loved the laid-back pace, friendly atmosphere and Sri Lankan cuisine. Witnessing turtle hatchlings take their maiden voyage, having a close encounter with an elephant and surfing the waves in Mirissa, brought together by its outstanding natural beauty, made this a dream location for us.
Ideal Duration: 10 days – 3 weeks
Best time to road trip: Depending on the region you intend to visit, December to March (dry season) is generally considered the peak season when the weather is good before monsoon season hits.
9. Egypt
Step back in time and immerse yourself in Egypt’s rich history and culture. Explore mysterious pyramids, magnificent temples and the infamous River Nile.
Route: Cairo-Luxor-Aswan
Highlights:
- Dive into Egyptian culture, history, and cuisine
- Explore the ancient pyramids of Giza and the Valley of the Kings
- Sail along the Nile in a felucca
- Hot air balloon over the open-air museum in Luxor
- Learn about Egyptian papyrus and hieroglyphics
Take a unique and mesmerizing journey through millennia of history, culture and breathtaking desert landscapes.
From Cairo’s bustling metropolis, you’ll traverse the timeless Nile River Valley, where ancient wonders and modern life coexist. In Luxor, the open-air museum will reveal the secrets of the pharaohs. History continues south to Aswan, and perhaps even take a traditional felucca sailboat ride on the Nile.
We loved exploring the open museums while digging deeper into ancient history. Luxor was the perfect location for us to take a tranquil hot air balloon ride over the ancient temples in the Valley of the Kings at sunrise. Falafel wraps were our go-to dish and were consistently good as well as reasonably priced.
Ideal Duration: 7+ days
Best time to road trip: Egypt’s climate varies by region, but the peak season is September to April, as the summer is uncomfortably hot.
10. Norwegian Fjords, Norway
Take a mesmerizing journey through dramatic fjords, stunning scenery and warm hospitality. This road trip combines natural beauty, culture and outdoor adventure, ensuring something for everyone.
Route: Oslo-Flam-Bergen-Loen-Runde-Trobdheim-Oppdal-Lom-Lillehamer-Minnesund-Oslo
Highlights:
- Dive into the rich cultural heritage, including stave churches and Viking history
- Explore deep glacial valleys, rugged shorelines and deep connection with nature
- Witness the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) or the Midnight Sun phenomenon’s
- Discover puffins nesting on Runde Island
- Travel the impressive Atlantic Road
This scenic road trip takes you through Norway’s majestic fjords, some of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders. You’ll drive through charming villages, witness mega waterfalls, and admire panoramic views from mountain peaks.
Norway is your dream destination if you are looking for a family road trip that promises awe-inspiring landscapes and opportunities for outdoor adventures.
With a vast network of bridges, ferries and the longest road tunnels in the world, Norway is surprisingly easy to travel. Remember to account for the tolls when budgeting, as they soon mount up if you travel long distances, especially in large vehicles such as motorhomes.
Winter was late when we visited, making early May unsuitable for our hiking plans. Instead, we planned alternatives such as going on an adventure, searching for nesting puffins, and trekking to one of the melting Glaciers – Briksdalsbreen is the most accessible.
Note: Consider the weather on all road trips, especially in Norway. They have a long winter, with many routes and activities only accessible during summer (June-August).
Ideal Duration: 7+ days
Best time to road trip: The summer months (June to August) offer the best weather for exploring, but be prepared for larger crowds during this time.
11. Costa Rica
Experience an action-packed road trip through diverse ecosystems, encountering exotic wildlife, waterfalls, beaches and volcanos in any season.
Route: San Jose-La Fotuna-Tortigero-Monteverdy Cloud Forest-Manuel Antoneo-San Jose
Highlights:
- Take part in action-packed activities like white water rafting and ziplining
- Explore lush rainforests and volcanos
- Relax, snorkel or surf on beautiful Caribbean and Pacific beaches
- Witness turtles nesting in Tortuguero National Park
- Spot for animal encounters like sloths, tucans, howler monkeys and coati
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, adventure seeker, or culture lover, road-tripping through Costa Rica offers a blend of experiences that cater to a wide range of interests. The country‘s warm hospitality and diverse natural beauty, including volcanos, beaches and rainforests, make it a top destination for those seeking an unforgettable road trip adventure.
Costa Rica lived up to our expectations, and we left vowing to return for more. The roads are generally safe (although potholed!), but consider drive times as street lights and roadsigns are minimal.
We particularly enjoyed the Tortuguero and Manuel Antonio National Parks. In Tortuguero, we watched a green turtle laying eggs and saw one of the world’s most dangerous snakes in Manual Antonio. Our kids loved jumping into natural water holes and hot springs that are plentiful across the country and are often free to visit.
Ideal Duration: 7+ days
Best time to road trip: If you prefer dry, sunny weather and more predictable road conditions, the dry season is ideal (December-April). However, if you’re looking for more budget-friendly options and are okay with occasional rain, the green season (May to November) can provide a unique and lush experience with fewer tourists.
The best time for a Family road trip
The best time for a family road trip depends on many factors for the individual location, including weather, cost, seasonal attractions, and crowd levels.
Research the specific destinations you plan to visit and check for any season-specific activities or events that might influence your decision. For example, knowing it gets very hot in Australia during Summer, we road-tripped the East Coast during Spring when temperatures were lower.
Consider any cultural, religious or public holidays impacting your road trip plans. Some attractions and services may have altered schedules during these times. While we were in Vietnam, the country basically closed to celebrate TET (Lunar New Year).
Ultimately, the best time for a road trip depends on your personal preferences, the experiences you want, and the destination you have in mind. Research and planning ahead will help you make the most of your road trip, regardless of the season you choose.
Family Road Trip Checklist
Planning for a successful family road trip includes choosing the right destination and preparing the whole family for the journey.
A checklist of items to bring on a family road trip:
- Passports and identification for all family members
- Driving licence
- Car and travel insurance
- Map/GPS, itinerary and a route plan
- Infant safety seats (if required)
- First-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any necessary medications.
- Camping Gear, cooking equipment and dinnerware (if applicable)
- Chargers for electronic devices
- Travel games and activities (art supplies, books, tablets)
- Snacks and drinks (reusable bottle)
- Rubbish bags for tidying up and garbage
- Clothing for different weather conditions (layering)
- Extra shoes and comfortable walking shoes
- Personal items (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.)
- Sunglasses/hats, sunscreen, and/or rain gear
Road trip with kids: Tips
Road trips with kids can be a fun and memorable adventure, but they require some planning to ensure a smooth journey. Travelling with Kids can be challenging. The key is to make it enjoyable and memorable for everyone.
Tips for road trips with children
Planning and preparation are essential to ensure a smooth journey, however much you might want to get going!
First and foremost, involve your kids in the planning process. Engage them by discussing the destinations and activities you’ll experience, building anticipation and a sense of trip ownership.
When packing, prioritise comfort with essentials like favourite blankets and pillows. Be mindful of space constraints and travel light, you don’t need everything!
During the journey, maintain a flexible schedule to accommodate the needs of all family members.
Frequent breaks for stretching, bathroom stops, and picnics allow for energy release and ensure everyone stays content. Encourage your kids to actively participate in the adventure by keeping a travel journal, spotting interesting landmarks and wildlife, or helping with simple navigation tasks. Our kids particularly like helping prepare snacks and dinner while on the road.
Be imaginative with ways to keep kids entertained during long drives. Our most successful was animal bingo in Australia. E-books are always a winner with our kids!
Most importantly, embrace the unexpected. Sometimes, unplanned detours and spontaneous roadside discoveries become trip highlights, fostering a sense of wonder and adventure in your children that will last a lifetime.
Final Thoughts | Family road trip ideas
There are endless options for family road trip ideas, and our tried and tested itineraries offer a taste of the diverse adventures you can embark on together. Remember to plan, prioritise safety, and be open to spontaneous detours and discoveries along the way. Road trips are not just about the destination; they’re about the journey and the moments you share as a family.
Each road trip offers different opportunities, and it is impossible to pick a favourite one. So, grab your road map, pack your sense of adventure, and create unforgettable memories on your next family road trip!
