13 Epic Family Road Trip Ideas: Tried And Tested
Explore Family Road Trip Itineraries That Kids Will Remember!
A family road trip should be about discovering new places and sharing unique experiences with your kids. However, coming up with family road trip ideas and deciding on a route or destination can sometimes seem overwhelming.
We’ve taken road trips in Europe, the Americas, Oceania, Asia, and Egypt, ranging from a few days to a few months. We love navigating scenic coastlines, winding through mountain ranges, and discovering hidden gems off the beaten path; being able to do it as a family makes it all the more special.
So, let us help and inspire you by sharing our favourite, tried and tested, family road trip itineraries.
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Top Road Trips With Kids
πEurope Road Trip: Iceland – Reykivik to South Coast
πAmericas Road Trip: Hawai’i – Big Island Ring Road
πAustralia – East Coast of Australia
Family Road Trips
Road trips don’t have to be elaborately planned or super expensive to be a success. The fun is often in the excitement of having the freedom to explore and choosing whether to stay or move on. This spontaneity can help make a road trip an adventure instead of just a journey, and it is a big part of why many families love them!
The reasons to embark on a family road trip are as numerous as the miles you’ll cover; one of ours is that they are an opportunity to disconnect from everyday life and connect with each other, strengthen family bonds and make lifelong memories.
13 Family Road Trip Ideas
There is an almost infinite choice of destinations and routes when it comes to planning a family road trip; from exploring stunning national parks and scenic coastal roads to immersing yourself in cultural experiences and discovering hidden gems, there is a road trip to suit everyone!
We have many happy memories of our family road trips (including having to share small spaces for extended periods!) and would love to help make yours a success too.
1. California and Nevada loop, USA Road Trip
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
California and Nevada road trip highlights:
- See famous sights like Hollywood, Golden Gate Bridge and Las Vegas
- View spectacular views along the Big Sur on the Pacific Coast Highway
- Stroll along beaches and learn to surf
- Stop in 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 and vast deserts.
For adrenaline junkies, there are world-famous theme parks, such as Disney and Universal Studios, suitable 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 Yosamite.
The giant Sequoias in Yosemite National Park must be seen 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 beach.
A combination of multiple sunsets, pleasant weather and a wide variety of activities made this road trip an all-round success and one we recommend!
Ideal Duration: 14+ days
Best time to road trip California: 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 Road Trip
This scenic road trip offers stunning landscapes, wildlife, castles and plenty of family-friendly hikes. The entire loop is 516 miles (830 km), with options to alter the route to suit you.
Route: Inverness-Thurso-Durness-Ullapool-Gairloch-Apple Cross-Muir of Ord-Inverness
North Coast 500 highlights:
- See spectacular Scottish scenery along a rugged coastline
- Hike peaks in the Scottish Highlands
- Take in castles, monuments and historical points of interest
- Explore the wildest tip of Scotland at Duncansby Head
- Play on pristine and deserted beaches
- Spot wildlife, including red deer, puffins and whales
The iconic North Coast 500 has breathtaking landscapes making it a popular road trip in Scotland. Families can enjoy exploring the rugged coastlines with unspoilt beaches, serene lochs, and dramatic mountain ranges.
Scotland’s rich history can be found in remote picturesque villages and ancient castles.
We self-drove and camped along the way with our teenagers and dog, taking two weeks to complete this budget friendly route in early June.
Ideal Duration: 5 to 14+ days
Best time to road trip Scotland: 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 Road Trip
A diverse road trip with a mix of beaches, outdoor activities and cultural experiences for families of any age.
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
East Coast Australia 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 East Coast Australia: 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 Road Trip
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
Italy road trip 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 Italy: Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer mild temperatures and fewer tourists than the busy summer months.
5. Big Island, Hawaii Road Trip
Take a captivating journey through diverse landscapes, from rainforest to desert to volcanic craters. Mix and match your Hawai’i itinerary for an epic family adventure
Route: Kailua Kona-Waikoloa-Hawi-Mauna Kea-Hilo-Volcano NP-Kailua Kona
Hawai’i road trip 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 Hawai’i: 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 Road Trip
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
New Zealand road trip 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 MΔori 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 New Zealand: 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 Road Trip
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
Vietnam road trip 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 Vietnam: During spring (March-April) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild and there is less chance of rain.
8. Sri Lanka Road Trip
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
Sri Laka road trip 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 Sri Lanka: 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 Road Trip
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
Egypt road trip 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: 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
Norwegian Fjords road trip 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 Norway: The summer months (June to August) offer the best weather for exploring, but be prepared for larger crowds during this time.
11. Costa Rica Road Trip
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
Costa Rica road trip 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!). Consider drive times to avoid driving at night as street lights and roadsigns are limited across the country.
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 that are plentiful across the country and are often free to visit.
Ideal Duration: 7+ days
Best time to road trip Costa Rica: 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.
12. Iceland Road Trip
An Iceland road trip through the Land of Fire and Ice is as magical as you could dream it to be. If time allows, consider a ring road itinerary in Iceland, but for a shorter duration, see the highlights of Iceland with a family road trip from Reykjavik to the South Coast.
Route: Reykavik – Golden Circle – Vik – Vatnajokull National Park – Reykjavik
Iceland road trip highlights:
- Witness stunning landscapes, including waterfalls, volcanos, black sand beaches and valleys
- Cover yourself in clay or relax in an iconic Icelandic Hot Spring
- Take part in unique family activities like glacier & ice cave hikes, snorkelling between tectonic plates, whale watching or snowmobiling
- Watch the geyser erupt at the Geothermal Park on the Golden Circle
- See the Northern Lights dance at night
A road trip through Iceland is an excellent action-packed family adventure. As you head along the South Coast, your kids will be in awe of the ever-changing dramatic scenery, from volcanoes to glaciers and magical valleys that are otherworldly.
Family holidays in Iceland are a perfect adventure in summer, when the sun never sets, or during winter when the country dramatically changes into a wonderland with the chance to see the mesmerising Northern Lights.
There is so much to see and do in Iceland the whole family will make memories to last a lifetime.
Ideal Duration: 5+ days
Best time to road trip Iceland: May to September is the optimum time to visit Iceland in summer, when the sun doesn’t set, maximising your adventure. However, between November and March is ideal for seeing the Northern Lights and winter landscapes.
13. Switzerland Road Trip
If you love mountains, hiking or nature, Switzerland is a must for a family road trip. The bonus is families can opt for a cable car to the top of most scenic viewpoints, making it suitable for families of any age.
Route: Geneva – Zermatt – Interlakken – Lucern
Switzerland road trip highlights:
- Alpine hikes or gondola rides to scenic spots and iconic mountains
- Swim in glacial lakes
- Go to the highest point of Europe
- Take an alpine coaster
- Paraglide over stunning Swiss landscape
Take one of the most scenic family road trips from the west to the east of Switzerland. There are many options to immerse your kids in nature, including adventurous activities and stunning scenery.
Our top hikes were the five lakes in Zermatt with views of the Matterhorn and Oeschinensee, where our kids swam in the glacial lake. They also enjoyed paragliding and downhill cycling.
While there are many beautiful towns in Switzerland, the history comes to life in Lucerne. You can also head to the Lindtt factory for some indulgent chocolate tasting.
Ideal Duration: 7+ days
Best time to road trip Switzerland: The weather is at its best during Summer, May to October, making this the ultimate time for a family road trip through the stunning alpine landscape.
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 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 that may impact on your road trip plans; some attractions and services may have altered schedules during these times. While we were in Vietnam, the country practically shut down to celebrate TET (Lunar New Year), making travel difficult.
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 a successful family road trip includes choosing a suitable destination and what kit you pack. Items to consider bringing on a family road trip include:
π Passports and identification for all family members
π Driving licence
π Map/GPS, itinerary and a route
π Car and travel insurance
π Infant safety seats (if required)
π Chargers for electronic devices
πFirst-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and medication
πCamping Gear, cooking equipment and dinnerware (if applicable)
πRubbish bags & wet wipes
πTravel games and activities (art supplies, books, tablets)
πSnacks and drinks (reusable bottle)
π Clothing for different weather conditions (layering)
π Swimwear
π Footwear
π Sunglasses/hats, sunscreen, and/or rain gear
π Personal items (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, sunscream, insect repellant etc.)
Tips For A Successful Road Trip With Kids
Road trips with kids can be fun and memorable with some planning to ensure a smooth journey.
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 to take 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.
Road Trips With Kids | FAQs
The best place to go on a road trip will depend on your family’s interests. Choose from exploring national parks, coastal drives, or discovering landmarks; there is a road trip for everyone. Popular routes include Icelands Ring Road or the rugged landscapes of Australia’s East Coast.
Kids can enjoy road trips with a mix of activities like games, audiobooks, colouring and family storytelling. Short daily travel distances and regular breaks to explore new sights will keep the journey fun.
Kids will all tolerate different lengths of road trips depending on their age, exposure and personality. Young children should spend limited time in car seats, whereas older children may go longer with activities and regular breaks. The road trip adventure will be more enjoyable for everyone if you plan not to spend more than 6-8 hours a day in the car.
Final Thoughts | Family Road Trip Ideas
Family road trips open the door to an almost endless choice of destinations and routes. Our tried and tested itineraries are a great place to start your adventure but we can guarantee that no two road trips will ever be the same! While an element of planning is essential to ensure your trip goes without a hitch, try to keep a flexible itinerary that allows for spontaneous detours and discoveries.
Road trips are much more than just a journey between points on a map; they are adventures that allow families quality time together and opportunities to make great memories along the way.
