Shares
Share on Pinterest
Share with your friends










Submit

Note: All travel is subject to frequently changing governmental restrictions—please check federal, state and local advisories before scheduling trips.

When it comes to planning a road trip, figuring out what the best car to rent for your travels is no small task. In fact, it’s probably one of the most important and challenging decisions you’ll have to make in the run-up to your open road adventure. No worries, we’re here to help! From extravagant rides and budget-friendly cars to vintage automobiles and spacious vehicles, here’s our quick guide to finding the best car for your next road adventure.

RELATED: Rent like a real pro with this car rental dictionary

car driving on a sunset road

Best for cozy extravagance: luxury cars

If you’re looking for panache, sophistication and comfort, look no further than a luxury car. Yep, that’s right. A luxury car, which you can easily book through sites like Orbitz (availability depends on location). Think of it this way: If you’re going to be cocooned in a moving object for a good few hours, you can’t underestimate the importance of feeling superbly relaxed. After all, the journey is just as important as the destination. So indulge a little and travel with class. If your pockets run deep or you’re up for a splurge, opt for a Mercedes GLC, BMW 4 Series or Cadillac XTS, which may set you back less than you’d think. If you need a lot of space, a larger-than-life Rolls-Royce Ghost is a good bet. Beware, though; it’s so beautiful to look at and experience you may shed tears (or never want to drive your own car again). Alternatively, there’s always a spacious Range Rover Autobiography, with the kind of interior that’ll make you feel so snug you’ll forget you’re even in a car.

set of sedans

Best for frugal travelers: economy cars

If you’re keen to keep travel costs to a minimum for your road trip, then look to some of the auto industry’s little understated gems. Ford Fiesta Sedans, Chevrolet Sparks and Mitsubishi Mirages—small, easy to drive and very, very affordable. What’s not to love about them? Other advantages to economy cars include being fuel efficient, easy to park, fuss-free and the ability to seamlessly handle both busy city networks and long drives on the highway. They’re also incredibly charming and increasingly packed with all sorts of delightful tech, from GPS navigation devices to infotainment systems. Good things do indeed come in small packages.

ALSO: Earn rewards on your road trip—and all your other travels—when you join Orbitz Rewards!

A Ford Mustang from the early 1970's.

Best for stylish travel: vintage cars

From drive-thru fast food joints and drive-in cinemas to hot rods and muscle cars, the automobile has long been a key symbol of American culture. And there’s nothing more American than a good, old road trip where the open road and a sense of discovery await. The best way to do it? In a stylish vintage car, of course. Our picks include a 50s Ford Thunderbird, best enjoyed with the top down; a Chevy Corvette Stingray from the early 60s; a second-generation Pontiac Firebird; and a Dodge Challenger from the 70s, preferably one that has a couple of bold stripes extending along the hood, roof and boot. Of course, you’d have to be a pretty handy mechanic to make this choice truly practical, so we recommend renting a modern version of the Challenger or even a Camaro or Mustang.

Camper van bed with view on Cinque Terre seaside in Italy

Best for families: RVs

Winnebagos, Volkswagen Type 2s, Travcos, Airstreams—nothing says All-American family road trip more than an iconic RV, whether it’s a campervan, motorhome or trailer. They’re ideal as they not only provide everyone with ample space and comfort, but also give families that inimitable home away from home experience. Depending on what kind you opt for, expect anything from basic living and sleeping quarters to RVs with facilities for cooking and entertaining. While classic RVs tap into nostalgia, 21st century alternatives come packed with modern luxuries, from huge flatscreen TVs to underfloor heating and warm showers.

Orbitz, app, iPhone, travel, deals

Tagged: Feature

Note: Orbitz compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site.

Orbitz Travel Blog Editors

Orbitz Travel Blog Editors

We're the editors of this travel blog, brought to you by Orbitz!

One thought on “What’s the best car for your next road trip adventure?”

  1. Orbitz was not upfront with the cost of a rental car. If I would have known the hidden fees I would have booked somewhere else. Very disappointing

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *