Thinking about going on a road trip? Here are 9 reasons why you should

Thinking about going on a road trip? Here are 9 reasons why you should

As we continue to save for and plan our next campervan conversion, we cannot wait to get back to life on the road! 

I mean, we really really can’t wait to get back to life on the road. 

And as I look back through old photos and videos from road trips gone by, I’m so excited to start planning the next chapter (so far Portugal, Morocco, Ireland and Croatia are at the top of the list). 

But with so much road trip talk going on at home, I thought it would be nice to share some of the reasons why going on a road trip is absolutely one of my favourite things to do. And why I think it’s one of the best ways to travel and see the world. 

Hilarious really given that I don’t actually drive myself… 

But putting that aside, if you’re thinking about going on a road trip this year, here are nine reasons why you absolutely should. 

1. For the adventure 

Road trips give you the opportunity to explore new destinations. Travelling by car or van means you can enjoy beautiful landscapes along the way, discover charming small towns or get lost in bustling cities. 

I guess what I’m trying to say is, you can have a truly memorable adventure no matter where you go. And you aren’t limited by public transport, flights or transfers. You can just hop in the front seat and go to most places. 

It’s also very nostalgic, reminiscent of simpler times and it can even feel romantic, like a chance to escape your everyday life and create memories on the road. 

2. To go off-the-beaten-track

Road trips often lead to serendipitous discoveries of hidden gems and they allow you to go off-the-beaten-track to find places like quiet, unspoilt beaches and tiny towns. You can also go to places that may not be accessible by other means of transportation like train or plane. 

3. For the freedom and flexibility 

Unlike many other forms of travel, road trips provide the freedom to set your own schedule. You can stop whenever and wherever you want and you can easily change your itinerary on a whim. 

I think this spontaneity always adds to the adventure, allowing you to embrace unexpected places and go where the road takes you. This can lead to much more memorable experiences.

4. Because it’s better for your bank balance 

Road trips can be one of the most cost-effective forms of travel, especially when compared to other modes of transport like flying. For one thing, you’ll have more control over your expenses along the way, including accommodation and dining options. 

And if you’ve got a campervan for your road trip, then you really can stick to a tight budget as you’ll be sleeping and even cooking in your vehicle. 

In most cases, just as long as you have petrol money, that’s all you need. 

5. To spend more time in nature 

Road trips present you with the perfect opportunity to spend more time in nature. This also gives you the chance to take part in different outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, surfing and camping. 

Or, you can just get lost in the outdoors, sit on the beach reading your book and spend as much time as possible outside. This is great for escapism and stress relief and it can give your mental health a real boost.  

6. You can get away from the stresses of everyday life 

Disconnecting from technology during a road trip can be incredibly rejuvenating. It means you can relax and recharge. You could even do a bit of wild camping if you really wanted to go off-grid for a while. 

Either way, you’ll be spending time outdoors, on the move and having adventures, which can help the stress of everyday life melt away. 

7. To form stronger bonds and meet like-minded roadtrippers 

Road trips give you the chance to meet fellow travellers and those embarking on similar journeys to your own. It also gives you the opportunity to bond with whoever you’re travelling with, if you’ve got a travel companion with you, that is. 

This can lead to lasting memories and stronger relationships, as well as new friendships, sharing experiences and stories along the way.

8. It’s easier to immerse yourself in different cultures 

It’s easier to immerse yourself in different cultures as you can visit multiple local attractions, try regional cuisines and interact with locals in lots of different places. 

Plus, being able to drive further afield than the typical tourist traps means you can get to grips with the real place and people that live there. Not just the typical touristy destinations. 

And, as you can be more flexible and spontaneous, you can also spend longer in the places you love to get a deeper understanding of those places and people. 

9. To grow as a person

Finally, spending time on the open road allows for introspection and personal growth. It gives you plenty of opportunities for self-discovery and reflection away from the routines of daily life.

You might even find that you never want to stop moving and that life on the road suits you best. 

So, if you’re thinking about heading off on a road trip this year, what are you waiting for?