rv best tours

Travels with Ted

10 Epic Bucket List RV Road Trips in the US

This post may contain affiliate links. See our affiliate disclaimer here.

I’ve lived in an RV since 2016, and traveled thousands of miles across the country (and into Mexico and Canda). In this guide to the best bucket list road trips in the USA, I share my favorite RV road trips.

Ready to start planning your own RV trip across America? Let’s get started.

• 1.1 Renting an RV
• 1.2 Finding Campgrounds
• 1.3 Buying Gear for your RV Road Trip
• 2.1 Olympic Peninsula
• 2.2 Utah National Parks
• 2.3 Route 66
• 2.4 California’s Pacific Coast
• 2.5 Blue Ridge Parkway
• 2.6 South Florida
• 2.7 Upper Peninsula of Michigan
• 2.8 Columbia River Gorge
• 2.9 Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon
• 2.10 North to Alaska

Planning your RV Road Trip

If you already an experienced or full-time RVer, go ahead and skip down to the bucket list RV road trips . Otherwise, here are some key planning tools to utilize before your first RV trip.

Renting an RV

If you do not already own an RV, it is best to rent a rig for your first RV road trip in the USA. A rental RV allows you to test drive the type, layout and travel style of an RV before you make a large investment.

RVshare allows you to rent fifth wheels, travel trailers and motorhomes directly from local owners. They have every type of rig available, and you can filter by price and features to pick the perfect RV.

Finding Campgrounds

After you’ve secured an RV, you need to find places to sleep. Fortunately, there are several great apps to help you find campgrounds and RV parks in the USA. If you are visiting an area during the peak season (i.e. Winter in Florida) you will need to make campground reservations in advance.

However, if you are traveling during less busy times, it is best to leave a few open days between reservations so you can be more spontaneous.

To find RV parks and campgrounds, download the AllStays Camp & RV app ($9.99). The AllStays app has an interactive map that allows you to find campsites directly along your route.

AllStays has the most comprehensive list of campgrounds and RV parks for people RVing in the USA. The app also shows truck stops, dump stations and RV services so you can easily find fuel and supplies.

For free RV camping , use the Campendium website to find no cost RV campsites. Free camping is a great way to save money and find more secluded locations.

However, most free campsites do not offer water, electric or sewer hook-ups, so you should be prepared to “rough it.” If you plan on dry camping or boondocking at free campsites, choose a rental RV that has a generator on board.

If you are planning an extended RV round trip, consider joining one or more RV membership clubs to enjoy discounted camping fees.

Buying Gear for your RV Road Trip

The last step in the planning process for an RV road trip is buying all the gear you need. Review our Amazon list of must have RV supplies and either buy them or verify that your rental RV comes equipped with the proper gear.

I also highly recommend buying a road trip journal to record your adventures and experiences RVing in the USA.

10 Best RV Road Trips in the USA

Olympic peninsula.

Driving highway 101 around the Olympic Peninsula is a short but sweet RV road trip. The complete Olympic Peninsula rod trip is just over 300 miles, so it can easily be completed in a few days.

On the other hand, there is so much to see in this region you could also stay for weeks. The main attraction on the Peninsula is Olympic National Park which features a lush rain forest, stunning mountain peaks, crystal clear lakes and the Pacific Coast.

There are plenty of RV campground options in the area. There are several private campgrounds just off highway 101 and there are 10 campgrounds in the National Park that can accommodate RVs.

Most National Park campsites are designed for RVs up to 21 feet long, and none of them accept rigs over 35 feet. If you plan to camp in the park, make sure to travel in a smaller RV.

While the National Park is the main feature, there are several other sights to see along this route. For incredible views, take a side trip to Cape Flattery, the most northwesterly tip of the contiguous 48 states.

To reach Cape Flattery, first head to the town of Neah Bay from highway 112. In Neah Bay, go as far west as you can, follow signs to Cape Flattery Road and head south. After 7.7 miles the road will take you to the trail head parking lot.

Don’t forget to stop in Neah Bay and purchase a Makah Recreation Pass , which is required to hike on the trail. The trail is an easy 1.5 mile round trip that winds through the forest and ends in stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Utah National Parks

Utah has five National Parks with jaw dropping scenery. Combining all five parks into a single road trip is an unforgettable adventure, and one of my personal favorite experiences RVing in the USA.

Start your adventure in Zion National Park then drive on Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches and Canyonlands. Allot at least 2 days in each park to make sure you have ample time to hike and relax. Since most of the trails in National Parks are not pet-friendly, this is not a great RV road trip with dogs.

All of the Utah National Parks, except Canyonlands, have RV-friendly campgrounds that can be reserved in advance. Reservations are accepted 6 months ahead of time and should be made exactly 6 months in advance for summer reservations.

None of the NPS campgrounds offer electric hook-ups, so RVers looking for more comfort should stay in private campgrounds near the parks. Reservations for RV parks also need to be made at least six months in advance to guarantee availability.

Don’t forget to add a few Utah State parks into your road trip itinerary. Dead Horse Point State Park, located just outside of Canyonlands, offers dramatic views of the Colorado River and the pinnacles of Canyonlands.

This state park has two campgrounds with 30 and 50 amp electric outlets. An hour from Zion, Sand Hollow State Park is a great summer stop if you are looking to get in the water.

The main feature of this state park is a refreshing reservoir with boat rentals. Their Westside campground also offers spacious campsites with full hook-ups.

Route 66, also know as the Mother Road, is the most iconic and celebrated RVing route in the USA. Historic Route 66 covers over 2,400 miles, starting in Chicago and ending at Santa Monica, California.

For the classic experience, I would recommend sticking to the westernmost portion of the route. This area features many kitschy attractions that will take you back in time. Start your journey in Amarillo, TX and take Route 66 all the way to the Pacific Ocean in California.

There are many RV campgrounds along historical Route 66. Simply use the AllStays app to find campgrounds with good reviews at your desired stopping points.

State park campgrounds are a good option if you are looking to incorporate more outdoor adventures into your road trip. Consider camping at Santa Rosa Lake, Homolovi Ruins and Malibu Creek State Parks.

Hualapai Mountain Park, 11-miles off of the road in Arizona, offers a great break from the desert. The campground sits in the Hualapai Mountain Range, so you can enjoy views of the desert below from a cooler elevation.

You want to take your time driving down Route 66, so you have plenty of time to stop for roadside attractions and detours. Starting in Amarillo, check out the Cadillac Ranch, an art installation made using old Cadillac cars.

During your RV road trip, stop at the ghost town of Oatman, Arizona that has a friendly local population of wild burros.

California’s Pacific Coast

The Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) hugs the Pacific Coast of California for 650 miles. The route is best driven from north to south, so you are on the ocean side of the road for the entire drive.

This coastal road trip is not for the faint of heart. The route features winding turns, small shoulders and big drop offs. I would recommend this RV road trip for more experienced drivers not first time RVers. Drive slow and plan short days to keep this drive fun and safe.

There are several state park campgrounds and private RV parks available along Highway 1. Spend a few days at the San Francisco RV Resort just outside of the city. This resort is pricey, but it features stunning ocean views, full hook-ups and easy access to the city.

Also stop at Doheny State Beach campground in Dana Point. This campground does not have any hook-ups, but there are campsites available right on the beach.

One of the most iconic stops along the California Coast is Big Sur. Plan to spend at least a few days of your road trip exploring this area.

The hike to McWay Falls should definitely be on your travel and adventure bucket list. The trail is less than a mile, but the views are incredible. You can access the trail head directly off of Highway 1.

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway stretches through the mountains from Afton, Virginia to Cherokee, North Carolina (my home state). This road is an iconic route for people RVing in the USA.

There are plenty of overlooks and the speed limit never exceeds 45 mile per hour, making for a leisurely RV road trip. The route has many sweeping curves, but is generally easy to drive without many tight turns. The vistas are stunning during the peak fall season when the leaves are changing, but be prepared for crowds during this time.

There are eight National Park Service Campgrounds on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Most of these campgrounds do not have hook-ups, but they offer potable water, bathrooms with flush toilets, picnic tables, fire rings and RV dump stations.

These campgrounds are open from May to October for a fee of $20 per night. If you are looking for higher-end accommodations, there a plenty of private RV parks a short drive off the parkway. Near Asheville, North Carolina, spend a night or two at the stunning mountaintop RV sites at Mama Gertie’s Hideaway Camp.

Views and hiking are the two main features of the Blue Ridge Parkway. One of our favorite hikes in the area is Crabtree Falls. The trail head is located at milepost 339.5.

There are two trail options: an easier 3 mile out and back hike on the same trail or a more strenuous 3.5 mile loop trail that climbs a ridge above the falls. The main feature of the hike is the 70 foot waterfall but there are also beautiful wildflowers in the early summer.

South Florida

If you are looking for a winter destination to RV in the USA, look no further than the Sunshine State. While many RVers park in one spot for the winter, a Florida road trip is a much better adventure.

I recommend starting your Florida road trip near Everglades National Park and driving down the Florida Keys.

Start your trip at the Miami Everglades RV Resort, a full hook-up RV park near the Everglades that offers amenities including a pool and game room. In the Keys, Sunshine Key RV Resort is another high-end RV park located right on the water.

For a more affordable camping option in the Keys, stay at Bahia Honda State Park which offers campsites with electric for $38 per night. Be sure to make your campground reservations six to twelve months in advance to avoid being stuck without a place to stay.

If you make it all the way to Key West, consider leaving your RV behind for the day to visit Dry Tortugas National Park. The park which is an island 70 miles west of Key West is only accessible by boat or seaplane.

Daily ferries shuttle visitors from Key West to the park, or you can arrive in style by flying in with Key West Seaplane Adventures. Once you arrive, you can spend the day swimming, snorkeling and exploring the 19th century fort.

Upper Peninsula of Michigan

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan (The U.P.) is a beautiful natural playground for campers RVing in the USA. Summer is the best time to visit when you can count on warm, pleasant weather.

The U.P. is accessed from I-75 on the lower peninsula of Michigan. From there, you can plan your own route around the U.P.

Straits State Park is a great place to start and end your U.P. RV road trip. Located right after the bridge onto the Upper Penninsula, the park has two campgrounds with electric hook-ups. From this location, you can easily access the ferry to car-free Mackinac Island.

Also consider staying at Indian Lake State Park which offers lake front campsites. There are also plenty of private campgrounds on the U.P. for the remainder of your road trip.

Just 10 minutes from Indian Lake State Park is The Big Spring ( Kitch-iti-kipi ) . The natural spring has crystal clear blue water that makes for a beautiful photo opportunity.

While you can’t swim in the spring, the park offers a self-operated observation raft that you can take out onto the water. Through observation windows on the raft floor, you can see trout swimming below. Also, don’t forget to eat a Pasty, a local meat pie delicacy.

Columbia River Gorge

The drive along the Columbia River Gorge is one of the most scenic drives in the Pacific Northwest. The gorge reaches heights of 4,000 feet, and the river serves as the boundary between Oregon and Washington.

I recommend starting in Troutdale, Oregon and driving on Interstate 84 to at least Hood River. This trip is a very short drive, but you can extend the trip by taking detours over the river to the Washington side.

This is a perfect first time RV road trip, allowing you to drive just 30 minutes between RV parks.

In Troutdale, stay at the Sandy Riverfront RV resort. This full hook-up campground offers direct access to the Sandy River where you can swim and float on hot summer days.

At the end of your trip, stay at the Blue Barn Grill & RV park on the Washington side of the river. In between, small RVs (20 feet max) can stay at the Eagle Creek campground within the National Scenic Area.

Even though the Columbia River Gorge is a short trip, it is not lacking in activities. There are stunning waterfalls, local breweries and hundreds of hiking trails to explore. One can’t miss hike along the gorge is Beacon Rock.

The trail is a one-mile hike up the 848 foot Beacon Rock, the core of an ancient volcano. The hike involves many switchbacks and steep drop-offs, but handrails make it safe for even casual hikers. At the top you are rewarded with vast views of the Columbia River Gorge.

Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon

If you are looking to incorporate both city life and the great outdoors into your RV road trip, consider driving from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon. The drive from Las Vegas to the south rim is just over four hours, but you can spend a significant amount of time at each destination.

If you are renting an RV , you can take a round trip route so you can fly in and out of Las Vegas. Alternatively, this trip can be combined with a Utah National Park or Route 66 road trip for a longer adventure.

There are many large RV resorts around Las Vegas that offer pools, outdoor activities and shuttles to casinos. If you want to stay right on The Strip, camp at Circus Circus RV Park. The campground offers full hook-up sites on the Circus Circus property, and campers have access to all the same amenities as hotel guests.

Once you reach the Grand Canyon , stay at the Trailer Village campground which offers full hook-up RV sites close to the south rim of the canyon.

Don’t forget to stop along the way to the canyon and explore Arizona a little more. Stop in the town of Chloride for some history and culture. The old silver mining town now features some interesting art with many residents creating junk art sculptures on their property.

Just outside of town, park the RV and walk 1.5 up a rough dirt road to see the murals of Chloride miner, Roy Purcell. Painted in 1966, these murals are a sight to see, covering 2,000 square feet of rocks and granite.

North to Alaska

Once you have completed some shorter road trips RVing in the USA, consider upping your road trip game and driving to Alaska. Leaving from Washington state, you can drive through British Columbia and The Yukon to reach Alaska.

Allow an absolute minimum of one month for this RV road trip, so you have plenty of time for driving and exploring. Ideally, this RV road trip would take two to three months so you have plenty of time to explore Western Canada as well.

On the route to Alaska, you will find plenty of RV parks off the highway. The AllStays app will help you find campsites in the US, as well as Canada.

Once you arrive in Alaska, the whole state is your campground. Alaska is one of the few places in the USA where it is legal to camp almost anywhere. Check out Call to Wander’s post for some Alaska campsite recommendations.

Once you reach Alaska, be sure to make it to Denali National Park. The park features Denali, the highest peak in North America, as well as plentiful wildlife.

The only entrance to the park is 240 miles north of Anchorage off Alaska Highway 3. There are RV-friendly campgrounds within the park, so you can enjoy the experience of camping right beside the natural wonders.

If you are new to RV travel, download our free RV setup and departure checklists to guide you when parking and packing up the RV.

Also, save our list of 250 road trip questions to help pass the time while you are driving.

Ready to hit the road and go RVing in the USA? Comment below to tell us which RV road trip is on the top of your bucket list.

Happy Camping!

Christina Pate is a seasoned full-time RVer who, along with her husband Justin, has journeyed across the US, Canada, and Mexico. Drawing from her extensive travels, RV repairs and RV renovations, she founded Travels with Ted to guide and inspire fellow RV enthusiasts. Christina is also the co-author of The Owner’s Guide to RV Maintenance and the creator of My RV Log Book .

Best RV Road Trips: 9 Top Routes Around the USA

I’ve been to all 50 states, 49 of them in an RV. There are beautiful places to explore all around the United States, but there are some great places that surpass the rest.

The type of routes that make you feel like you’ve won the life lottery. The ones that make you ask, “Is this even real life?!” 

Whether you’re a full-time RVer or planning a family vacation for the summer, you may be feeling overwhelmed at the options of where to go next and wondering which roads are the best and most scenic to enjoy through RV travel.  

After over 50,000 miles behind the wheel and exploring every corner of this country, I’ve compiled the best RV road trips for you to explore!

Length of Route: Approximately 1,650 miles from Seattle, Washington to Los Angeles, California Best Time of Year to Go: Spring/Summer/Fall

Imagine cruising down the coasts of Washington, Oregon, and California, with practically perfect moderate temperatures year-round. There’s no need for AC, just roll the windows down and inhale that salty ocean breeze.

Welcome to the Pacific Coast Highway, one of the best road trips in North America.

To be fair, this route can be as beautiful as it is challenging to drive, depending on the size of your RV. There are many sections along the PCH that are not big rig friendly. 

While the weather is moderate compared to other parts of the country, you can expect some freezing temperatures in the winter or even early spring in some parts of the Pacific Northwest along the route. 

Most folks are surprised to learn that the summer months are actually one of the least desirable times to visit California due to what the locals call ‘May Gray’ or ‘June Gloom’.

The marine layer tends to be thick and chilly, making the roads more dangerous to drive and less scenic.

PCH Must-See Sites

• Olympic National Park, WA
• Cape Disappointment State Park, WA
• Cannon Beach, OR
• Natural Bridges, OR
• Trees of Mystery, CA
• Redwood National Park & State Park, CA
• Fort Bragg, CA
• Point Reyes National Seashore, CA
• Big Sur, CA 
• Pismo Beach, CA
• Santa Monica Pier, CA

PRO TIP: Drive the route from North to South for the most spectacular views.

Length of Route: Approximately 125 miles from Fernandina Beach to Daytona Beach (continue on Highway 1 to Key West, 540 miles) Best Time of Year to Go: Winter

There’s really nothing like RVing in Florida during the winter. While folks shovel snow up north, you’re walking barefoot on the beach or soaking in the historical sites along Florida’s east coast. 

This route includes the A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway (72 miles), as well as surrounding must-see cities and sites.

A1A and Coastal Florida Must-See Sites

• Fernandina Beach
• Little Talbot Island State Park
• Guana Tolomato Matanzas 
• Saint Augustine
• Fort Matanzas National Monument
• Daytona Beach

BONUS: Continue south on Highway 1 across the famous Seven Mile Bridge to the Florida Keys and end your journey in Key West (#8). Be sure to sightsee in Miami (#7), and kayak in Crystal River to see the manatees!

3. blue ridge parkway.

Length of Route:  Approximately 450 miles from Gatlinburg, Tennessee to Shenandoah National Park Best Time of Year to Go: Summer/Fall

Known as America’s favorite drive, this road trip belongs on the bucket list of every RVer. But like many scenic parkways, there are windy curves, mountains to traverse, and tunnels to go through.

It’s crucial to know your rig’s height and not to push your tow vehicle’s limits over the passes of Tennessee, North Carolina, and Virginia.  

Blue Ridge Parkway Must-See Sites

• .Gatlinburg, TN
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Asheville, NC
• The Blowing Rock, NC
• Roanoke, VA
• Skyline Drive/Shenandoah National Park

4. The Grand Circle of National Parks

Length of Route: Approximately 1,370 miles roundtrip Best Time of Year to Go: Spring

You may have heard of the Utah 5, but did you know you can easily expand that itinerary to include parks in Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona? 

This is one of the best RV road trip routes for the National Park geeks.

Must-See Sites

• Zion National Park
• Bryce Canyon National Park
• Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument
• Capitol Reef National Park
• Canyonlands National Park
• Arches National Park
• Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
• Telluride, CO
• Mesa Verde National Park
• Shiprock, NM
• Petrified Forest National Park
• Grand Canyon National Park
• Lake Powell

5. National Parks of the Northwest

Length of Route: 476 miles from Jackson, Wyoming to West Glacier, Montana Best Time of Year to Go: Summer/Fall

Pack up the kids and get them away from the screens. I guarantee the views out the windows of this route will be better than any new TikTok trend. 

This route involves a bit more planning to time it out just perfectly. You want to avoid the peak season summer crowds at Yellowstone but not arrive too late to Glacier National Park to drive the Going to the Sun Road . I would say late summer or early fall will be your best bet for this trip. 

Northwest Parks Must-See Sites

• Jackson, WY
• Grand Teton National Park
• Yellowstone National Park including: Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone Canyon, Grand Prismatic Spring
• Bozeman, MT
• Glacier National Park

6. Tour of New England

Length of Route: 761 miles from Newport, Rhode Island to Burlington, Vermont Best Time of Year to Go: Fall

The only downfall of traveling this route is you’ll have a hard time keeping it on the road when you want to be sightseeing around every corner.

While the West gets a lot of credit for epic road trips, the beauty of the Northeast is often underrated for its road trip potential.

• The Cliff Walk Newport, RI
• Cape Cod National Seashore
• Boston, MA 
• Portland, ME
• Acadia National Park
• White Mountains, NH
• Green Mountains, VT
• Burlington, VT

7. The California Loop

Length of Route: Approximately 2,200 miles from Sacramento, California roundtrip Best Time of Year to Go: Spring/Summer

Being born and raised in California, I can honestly say you could spend an entire lifetime exploring the Golden State and not be able to see and do it all, but the California Loop hits the highlights.

This scenic route could take you a couple of weeks or a few months to complete!

• Yosemite National Park
• Sequoia National Park/Kings Canyon National Park
• Eastern Sierras
• Death Valley National Park
• Joshua Tree National Park
• Palm Springs
• Los Angeles
• Santa Barbara – side trip to Channel Islands National Park
• San Francisco
• Napa Valley

8. Arizona Road Trip

Length of Route: Approximately 1,300 miles roundtrip from Tucson Best Time of Year to Go: Spring/Winter

Join the snowbirds and take a tour of Arizona. Like the California Loop, this Arizona road trip hits a lot of the popular destinations while taking you from South to North, East to West, and back. 

• Saguaro National Park
• Kartchner Caverns
• Casa Grande National Monument
• Montezuma Castle National Monument
• Meteor Crater Natural Landmark
• Winslow – don’t forget to stand on the corner! 
• Monument Valley
• Antelope Canyon
• Organ Pipe National Monument

I may have saved my personal favorite of the best RV trips for last because nothing says ‘road trip’ more than this next one.

9. Route 66

Length of Route: 2,448 miles from Chicago, Illinois to Los Angeles, California Best Time of Year to Go: Summer/Fall

The Mother Road. The ultimate All-American road trip, Route 66. When you think of a nostalgic road trip driving off into the Western sunset, you probably imagine a scenic drive along Route 66. 

While most of the original road has been surpassed by I-40, you can still step back in time along a surprisingly 85% preserved original route that starts in downtown Chicago and ends at the famous Santa Monica Pier in Southern California.

FUN FACT: Oklahoma has the most drivable miles of Route 66 than any other state. 

The original Route 66 road is RV friendly, although it can sometimes be a bit bumpy and riddled with potholes. But I think that adds to the nostalgia of it, and forces you to slow down and soak it all in.

Route 66 Must-See Sites

• Chicago, IL
• Springfield, IL – Abraham Lincoln Historical Sights
• The Route 66 Museum and Welcome Center in Litchfield, IL
• Henry’s Rabbit Ranch, IL
• Saint Louis Arch, MO
• Meramec Caverns, MO
• Galena, KS – Inspiration for the Disney Pixar film Cars
• The Blue Whale – Catoosa, OK
• Oklahoma Route 66 Museum
• The Midpoint Cafe & Sign – Adrian, TX 
• Cadillac Ranch – Amarillo, TX
• The neon lights of Tucamacari, NM
• Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
• Delgadillo’s Snowcap – Seligman, AZ
• The ghost town of Oatman, AZ (*note – the original route is a windy and narrow mountain road, so proceed with caution).
• The End of Route 66 at the Santa Monica Pier, CA

You could spend a week or a month soaking in all of the sites of Route 66. There’s no wonder it’s one of the best RV road trips. My best piece of advice is to take your time to see it all.

Go slow, read the signs, take touristy pictures, talk to the locals, and support the businesses that are still serving the small towns along the route. Go back to a simpler time along the Mother Road.

Best RV Road Trips for Beginners

There are countless popular destinations and beautiful scenery to be seen all around the United States, but the above road trips are a great way to get you on the open road!

If you’re a beginner RVer, remember to slow down and take your time planning. Also, try to avoid a strict schedule. This is the best way to have a pleasant trip and ensure you aren’t overwhelmed with the logistics and unpredictability of RV life.

Instead, you’ll be sure to fully enjoy the places you see and make tons of priceless memories on some of the best roads in the US.

Your Guide to Launching RV Life

Road Map & Checklist – Start Now!

Unsubscribe at any time. View our  privacy policy .

RELATED ARTICLES

• RVing the USA: 48 States in 9 Months
• What Stores Allow Overnight RV Parking?
• An Honest Harvest Hosts Review: Is It Worth It?

Want beginner tips on RV living and travel?

Check out our guide to preparing for full-time RV living, including info on choosing an RV, budgeting for RV life, gear guides, and more.

Like this post? Save it on Pinterest for later.

Or view our web stories.

Kerisa has been traveling the U.S. with her husband and fur kids in their 89 sq. ft. home on wheels since 2020 and has been to all 50 states. She is the copywriter/owner of Outside Voice Collective and blogger at the Traveling Tiongsons. You'll most likely find her behind the wheel on a scenic byway or relaxing around a campfire with a good glass of wine at the end of the day.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

Sign Me Up!

Learn how to live in an rv.

Get weekly tips on how to start traveling full-time in an RV.

View our privacy policy .

Privacy Overview

23 Incredible RV Vacations: Scenic RV Road Trips You Need to Take

Posted on Published: July 7, 2023  - Last updated: February 26, 2024

If you’re seeking the perfect blend of adventure and comfort, an RV road trip may be the perfect getaway! From awe-inspiring national parks to quaint coastal towns and everything in between, the USA offers an incredible array of destinations to explore from the comfort of your home on wheels. Here are the best RV vacations in the USA!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Start packing up the RV (and the family) now! You’re going to love these RV trips all across the country. Whether you’re looking for a route that’s in your home state, or you’re traveling and then renting an RV, this list has something for everyone!

This list goes beyond somewhere to sit your RV – each destination in this guide is an RV road trip with beautiful landscapes, fun national parks to explore, vibrant cities or wide open spaces.

👉Don’t have time to read the whole article? Get the complete Organize Your RV Like a Pro Guide for brilliant organization RV hacks before you go!

Many of these RV routes are best one in the summer months when the weather is (typically) most predictable and reasonable in the USA. But each of these RV vacations below share the best time of year for that particular adventure.

Whether this is your first RV road trip or you’ve been packing up your motorhome or travel trailer for years, these epic destinations are going to blow you away!

Must-see video: RV vacations

RV road trips map

This list covers the best RV trips in the west, east and a bunch of amazing routes in between.  Each pin on this map marks a stop on one of the very best RV routes in the US .

Because I haven’t’ been everywhere in the US in my RV (yet), I’ve asked some of my fellow travel writers to help compile this list of the best RV travel USA ideas! Enjoy!

Epic RV vacations

Get ready to hit the open road and discover some truly unbelievable RV road trips that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Let’s dive in!

1. Great Smoky Mountains: Asheville to Gatlinburg

• Distance: 85 miles
• Recommended time: 2-3 days
• Best time of year: Spring or Fall

If you’re looking for a fun getaway in your RV, then look no further than the mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee! One of the best RV vacations in the US, the drive from Asheville North Carolina to Gatlinburg, Tennessee is simply gorgeous.

The Smoky Mountains are stunning year-round, though it’s best to avoid this road trip in winter. The National Park Service often closes the road through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee.

This route can technically be done in an afternoon, but you’ll want to spend a day or two on either side of the road trip, at minimum!

While in Asheville, be sure to visit the botanical gardens and the River Arts District. And of course, one of the best attractions in town is the Biltmore Estate . Visit the estate to see the massive 175,000+ square feet of space on 8,000 acres. It’s spectacular!

The drive west towards Tennessee is beautiful, and the Smoky Mountains make their presence known with the hazy-looking views. Stay on Highway 19 until you get to Cherokee, North Carolina. It’s a great spot to grab lunch, a souvenir and check out the cornmeal and grits mill – Saunooke’s Mill .

Next, get ready for an incredibly scenic drive through US Highway 441 (AKA Newfound Gap Road) in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This scenic road is RV-friendly, although it does have some steep grades so be prepared as you drive through the mountains.

You’ll want to stop at Clingmans Dome for 360-degree views of the Smokies. It requires a 0.5 mile (paved) hike with a steep incline, but is well worth it.

Pro tip: don’t miss the turn to Clingman’s Dome! There’s RV-friendly parking at the parking lot, but turning around on 441 will be difficult in an RV if you miss the turn.

Gap Overlook and Ben Morton Overlook are other stops worth the view, if the parking situation isn’t too full when you’re driving through. Of course, there’s various hiking trails along the scenic route as well.

Gatlinburg is the official end of this RV road trip. It’s quite the touristy town, and parking is not RV-friendly at all. Instead, you can stay at Elkmont Campground inside the national park or Greenbrier Campground just outside of Gatlinburg. As with most national park campgrounds, be sure to book it well in advance to reserve your spot.

If you have a day or two to explore the park, you’ll want to check out the fabulous waterfalls, which are most impressive in the springtime. Laurel Falls Trail , Grotto Falls and Abrams Falls Trail are really popular hikes, although if you have a vehicle you’re towing it’s easier to access Grotto Falls and Abrams Falls as they’re located on narrow roads.

This is one of the best RV vacations that’s great for beginner RVers or those based in the Eastern USA and looking for a quicker weekend adventure.

Recommended by me – Nikki of Inspired Routes

2. Alaska RV road trip

• Distance: 1,200 miles
• Recommended time: 10 days
• Best time of year : June, July and August

Alaska is a fantastic state for a scenic and remote RV vacation. An RV road trip through the rugged 49th state allows you to see mountains, glaciers, forests, panoramic coastline, wildflowers, and plentiful wildlife.

Although driving your RV to Alaska is possible, another popular option is to fly into Anchorage and rent an RV. Either way, you should book your campsites as early as possible . Summer is the busy season in Alaska and the good campsites are often booked out months in advance.

The best  10-day Alaska road trip itinerary  will take you to see the diverse beauty of the inland mountains as well as the coastline. But, make sure to plan for at least 10 days to complete this 1,200-mile RV road trip. Alaska is a huge state and you will need to do a lot of driving to see the highlights.

Starting in the city of Anchorage, head north to Denali National Park for a few nights. After Denali, return south to Anchorage for a night and then keep going south to Seward. 

After spending several nights in Seward, drive to the Kenai River Region for a night or two, and then to Homer for your last few nights.  You’ll end your trip by returning north back to Anchorage.

Highlights of the route include Denali National Park and Kenai Fjords National Park, as well as some epic scenic overlooks and state parks along the way.

Two of the best campsites in Alaska for RV camping are Denali Grizzly Bear Resort near Denali National Park and Miller’s Landing in Seward. 

An RV road trip through Alaska will be an incredible and memorable experience!

Recommended by Diane of Travels with Eli

3. Milwaukee to Ludington (an underrated RV vacation idea in the USA)

• Distance: 148 miles by car ferry or 341 miles driving
• Recommended time: 3-4 days
• Best time of year: Mid-May to October, and this small beach town offers amazing outdoor activities. Hence, you want to visit during sunny spring and summer weather to truly enjoy this natural landscape.

Traveling from Wisconsin to Michigan is a unique road trip with an RV, as you can take the S.S. Badger Car Ferry (even for RVs) and enjoy the ride! 

While onboard, you can shop, watch a movie in the movie theater or simply lounge inside. They also have an outside deck with live music, where you can stroll along the deck, play a board game, or even test your luck at the famous Badger Bingo. Kids will enjoy the toddler play area or the kid’s port play area.

If you do not want to take the ferry, you can also easily drive to Ludington. The drive time varies based on traffic, but it is about 4 hours from Chicago, 4 hours from Detroit, and 5.5 hours from Milwaukee.

There are plenty of  things to do in Ludington , including exploring the natural beauty of the region at Ludington State Park. It’s an outdoor enthusiasts paradise with natural beauty from lakes and rivers, forests, and unique sand dunes.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, camping, and even bird-watching in Ludington State Park. Located on Hamlin Lake, RVers will enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking and paddle boarding.

Lastly, don’t forget to climb and explore the unique Hamlin Lake Sand dunes that give you a scenic view of Lake Michigan, Hamlin Lake, and Big Sable Point Lighthouse.

This is one of the best and most unique RV road trips in the US, and one worth adding to your must-do list!

Recommended by Hannah of Getting Stamped

4. Phoenix, Sedona, Grand Canyon and Page Arizona (one of the most scenic RV road trips)

• Distance: 478 miles (one way)
• Recommended time: 5-6 Days

There are so many amazing places to visit within driving distance from Phoenix. On this RV road trip, you will visit 3 of the most iconic destinations in Arizona , Sedona, the Grand Canyon and Page, Arizona.

Start in Phoenix and make your way to Sedona, one of the prettiest places in the world. There are a ton of places in Sedona to see incredible views or go on a  Sedona sunrise hike  to see the gorgeous red rocks illuminated in bright orange and red colors.

One of the best campgrounds to stay at in Sedona is Pine Flat Campground located on the scenic byway 89a. You’ll combine scenic accommodations with tone of the most gorgeous RV vacations in the USA!

After spending 1-2 days exploring Sedona, it’s time to head to the Grand Canyon, which is only 110 miles north. The Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic national parks in the United States, and it’s easy to see why.

Rent some electric bikes and bike along the rim to Hermits Rest and enjoy stopping off and seeing all the incredible views of the canyon.

The best place to stay near the Grand Canyon is at Mather Campground located inside the park. Advanced reservations are required to get a spot at this campground as it’s super popular.

After spending a day exploring the Grand Canyon, head 132 miles north to Page, Arizona. Once in Page, make a reservation to visit the incredible Antelope Canyon which is one of the prettiest slot canyons in the world.

You can also do the 1.5 mile round trip hike to Horseshoe Bend.

The best campground to stay at in Page is The Canyons , which is located only 10 minutes to Antelope Canyon and 10 minutes to Horseshoe Bend.

As one of the best RV vacation ideas, consider taking this road trip in either the spring or fall as the summer in Arizona can get really hot and be super crowded. 

Recommended by Jessica of Unearth the Voyage

5. San Francisco to Lake Tahoe

• Distance: 200 miles
• Recommended time: 3+ days
• Best time of year: summer or early fall

Hands down, one of the best RV vacations is a road trip from San Francisco to Lake Tahoe. With so much to do at the starting point, stopping point and in between, you could easily spend a week or more exploring this route. You’ll want a minimum of 3 days to see the highlights!

Starting in San Francisco, this is a great road trip for those based in northern California or southern Oregon. While driving an RV in San Francisco isn’t the most fun thing in the world, I can say it’s pretty spectacular driving across the Golden Gate Bridge in a motorhome (or travel trailer) !

You can spend a day (or more) exploring the sights in San Francisco; visit Lombard Street, Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz Island, Exploratorium and more. If you’re towing a vehicle, I’d recommend to leave your RV at your campsite and get a ride share around San Francisco.

From there, make your way northeast to Sacramento . Make a quick gas or food stop, or spend a day or more in the fun city. Highlights include the Capitol Building, Old Sacramento Waterfront, the Old Sugar Mill or do a wine tour.

Next, Lake Tahoe is big! So deciding whether to see (and camp) on the north or south side is important, as you’ll take 2 different routes out of Sacramento. Both areas are wonderful for RV travel, and each has unique experiences.

In north Lake Tahoe, see the incredible views of the lake at Sand Harbor State Park, go swimming, mountain biking or hiking. Furthermore, this dog-friendly destination is great for summertime swimming for your furry friends, too.

In South Lake Tahoe, a must-do is a sightseeing cruise of Emerald Bay. Of course there’s more hiking, paddleboarding and kayaking opportunities, not to mention Van Sickle Bi-State Park.

For camping in North Tahoe, try the Tahoe State Recreation Area or the Alpine Meadow Campground. In South Tahoe, consider the Campground by the Lake or Fallen Leaf Campground . As with most other RV vacations on this list, be sure to book your campground far in advance to ensure a spot.

While Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination, the winter driving in an RV (not to mention freezing temperatures) can create challenges. Summer is the best time for this road trip!

6. Santa Fe to White Sands National Park (one of the most underrated RV trips on this list)

• Distance: 397 miles
• Recommended time: 1 week
• Best time of year: late spring

Travel through the heart of New Mexico on an unforgettable Santa Fe to White Sands RV road trip. It’s a perfect route for RVs as the roads are largely flat with incredible views . Even in the areas where the roads turn hilly, it’s nothing that the average rig can’t handle!

Start your adventures in historic Santa Fe, the nation’s oldest capital city. Explore the Plaza and the oldest church in America before settling into your RV spot at the welcoming Santa Fe KOA.

Next, head over to Albuquerque, where you can tour the Old Town, hike in nearby Petroglyph National Monument, or experience the awe-inspiring Albuquerque Balloon Festival. 

Head south to the quirky Roswell, New Mexico, to uncover what happened in this town in 1947. Even if you don’t believe in alien encounters, the town’s extraterrestrial theming is out of this world.

Finally, complete the last leg of your New Mexico RV road trip by heading over the Sacramento Mountains into Alamogordo.

Camp at the Alamogordo/White Sands KOA, which offers free coffee in the morning, pedal bike rentals, a pool, a big game room, and a playground. You can also rent saucers for your White Sands National Park sledding from the front desk.

In Alamogordo, you can take a photo with the world’s largest pistachio at McGinn’s Pistachioland –don’t miss out on their homemade pistachio ice cream!

The New Mexico Museum of Space History is also an excellent way to spend several hours in Alamogordo. You can even visit the grave of the Ham, the famed monkey who flew to space and back in 1961.

The real gem in Alamogordo is White Sands National Park, which is about 15 minutes west of Alamogordo. Plan to spend at least  one day in White Sands  in order to get the most of the sledding, Dunes Drive, Junior Ranger program and more.

Recommended by Natalie of Camping Kiddos

7. Las Vegas to Zion plus the Grand Canyon

• Distance: 425 miles
• Recommended time: 5-10 days

Ready to go on one of the most scenic RV road trips in the USA?  Start your adventure by flying (or driving) into Las Vegas and picking up your RV.

After your RV is ready to go, set out from Las Vegas making your way to Springdale, Utah – the gateway to Zion National Park.

Springdale is the closest town to Zion with plenty of restaurants and RV parks. Watchman Campground, with both campsites and RV hookups, is one of the best places to stay in the area.

Along the way to Zion, there are several different stops along I15 for more sightseeing and breaks from the road, including Valley of Fire State Park and Red Rock Canyon.

Zion is one of the most scenic national parks, home to the red cliffs of Zion Canyon, forested trails, waterfalls, and the Emerald Pools. There are lots of hiking trails, including the famous Angel’s Landing.

Next, hit the road towards Grand Canyon National Park. You can stop at Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, or the town of Page along the way.

After exploring the Grand Canyon, start making your way back to Vegas. Along the way, visit the Route 66 Museum in Kingman, visit the “living ghost town” of Chloride, or make a pitstop at the Hoover Dam before arriving back in Las Vegas.

Once your road trip is over, spend a few days in Las Vegas unwinding at the pool and exploring one of the USA’s most fun cities.

Recommended by Sydney of A World in Reach

Best RV trips in the west

The west coast of the USA is full of dramatic landscapes, curvy roads and scenic views that honestly just seem impossible. Some of my favorite RV trips have been along the west coast.

Let’s keep this list going…

8. Sequoia National Park to Monterey via Big Sur (a personal favorite on this RV vacations list!)

• Distance: 300+ miles
• Recommended time: 3-5 days
• Best time of year: Spring, summer or fall

If you’re looking for the best RV vacations, then this incredibly scenic drive is it! You’ll see the giant Sequoia trees, California’s stunning coastline through Big Sur and the charming town of Monterey.

You’ll want to spend 1-2 days visiting Sequoia National Park , where you can see the General Sherman Tree – the world’s largest tree by volume! Fun hikes like Congress Trail and Moro Rock will help you fall in love with this fun park.

Note: some roads in the park are quite narrow and depending on the size of your RV, you’ll need – or maybe want – to take the park shuttle .

At Sequoia, there’s the Dorst Creek Campground, perfect for RVs inside the park. Alternatively, the Sequoia Resort and RV Park is near the park entrance.

From Sequoia National Park, you’ll actually head southwest, even though Monterey is slightly north.

Drive through Visalia (a great spot to grab gas) and continue southwest to the s mall town of Cambria, California. Stretch your legs on the boardwalk trail along the beach or shop and dine in the charming downtown.

North of Cambria, you’ll take the incredibly scenic California Highway 1, or the Pacific Coast Highway. While there are too many things to do in Big Sur to mention here, a few RV-friendly highlights include the Sand Dollar Beach, McWay Falls and the Bixby Creek Bridge.

If you’re looking to stay in Big Sur and enjoy a few days exploring the area, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is a great spot for RV camping in the heart of Big Sur.

Ending your trip in Monterey, you’ll want to check out the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, Old Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row . It’s such a fun city, I’d recommend spending 1-2 days exploring the sights.

9. Glacier to Yellowstone National Park

• Distance: 420 miles
• Recommended time: 7.5-hour drive
• Best time of year: Summer and Fall

There’s just something about the American West that is freeing and magical. It feels like home when you’re out on the open road without a care in the world. 

This is what you get as you road trip between Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park. But, thankfully, there’s much more to do in this road trip than just gazing out at the vast landscapes. It’s one of the best RV road trips in the west!

You can start your trip in either direction, but for this one, we’ll begin in Glacier and head south to Yellowstone .

At Glacier, you’ll be home to arguably the best views of any National Park in America. With towering peaks cut by glaciers, turquoise waters with glacier silt, and wildlife galore, it’s a mesmerizing experience. 

Do note that you need reservations to enter most of Glacier’s top spots, such as Many Glacier or Going to the Sun Road, or be willing to wake up before 6 am to beat the crowds. 

I suggest spending at least five days in Glacier to see both sides. Your best places to visit are Grinnell Glacier, Iceberg, Hidden and Two Medicine Lakes. 

If you’re curious how long you should allocate for each destination, I’d recommend spending 67% of your time in Glacier – it’s that good!

As for the specific driving portion of it, there’s little to see between the two famous national parks. I suggest cruising through the heartland and getting to Yellowstone quickly. 

Once in Yellowstone, make sure to hit the classics: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, Morning Glory, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. You can see a lot of the park in just two days, allowing you to keep this  epic road trip  to a reasonable length. 

Recommended by Alec of Explore with Alec

10. Joshua Tree and Death Valley National Park (one of the most interesting RV routes in the US)

Distance: 577 miles (if starting and ending in Los Angeles) Recommended time: 5 Days Best time of year: Fall to Spring

A  Joshua Tree and Death Valley road trip  is the ultimate Southern California experience! Los Angeles makes for an easy starting point, but you can also choose to start in Las Vegas . This whole RV road trip is around 600 miles and you will want to plan a minimum of 5 days.

Spend at least one full day in Joshua Tree, visiting all of the best hikes including the Cholla Cactus Garden, Arch Rock, Barker Dam and Hidden Valley. Joshua Tree is also an amazing spot to stargaze if the weather is clear.

Staying in the park will allow you to make the most of your trip, so reserve your campground in advance!

After having your fill of Joshua Tree, drive up to Death Valley National Park to continue on with one of the best RV vacations.

There are a few reservable campsites in Death Valley, but if you do not get one, there is also a large first-come, first-served campground near Furnace Creek .

In Death Valley, you do not want to miss spots like the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Zabriskie Point, and Gold Canyon.

Make sure to stop at the lowest point in North America- Badwater Basin Salt Flats!

Keep in mind some side roads are restricted to vehicles under 25 feet long like Artist Palette Drive, but the majority of the popular spots are accessible.

Plan this trip when it is not too hot out, as Death Valley has the hottest recorded temperature on Earth! Fall and Spring are the best time to visit.

The desert temperatures can drop at night and it can get very windy, so this makes a perfect RV road trip, as you can shelter from the elements.

Recommended by Val of Voyages with Val

11. Ashland to Crater Lake National Park

• Distance: 92 miles
• Recommended time: 1-2 days
• Best time of year : July – September (These are often the only months the roads are not closed due to snow!)

Oregon is a state full of beautiful scenery, and makes for one of the best RV trips west coast. Perhaps one of the most beautiful spots is Crater Lake.

This natural lake is the deepest in the United States and one of the most pure. From the blue water to the fresh, clean air, an RV vacation from Ashland to Crater Lake National Park will not disappoint.

Visitors can explore the rim of the lake on a variety of hiking trails. Boats even take visitors to Wizard Island to get a unique view of the stunning scenery. 

The RV road trip from Ashland to Crater Lake is beautiful in its own right. Highway 62 often travels along the Rogue River. You’ll pass through little towns with charming names like Shady Cove and Prospect. 

As you get closer to the lake, watch for bald eagles flying overhead or nesting on top of trees. But the highlight of the day will be cresting the final ridge and getting your first glimpse of the lake . It’s truly breathtaking.

There is one campground nearby that allows RVs. Mazuma Campground is seven miles from the Rim Village Visitor Center .

It’s a beautifully maintained campground and very popular. Be sure to make reservations in advance to secure your spot.

The road trip from Ashland to Crater Lake is short enough for a day trip, but one day may not be long enough to get your fill of the astounding beauty.

Recommended by Sherry of  Digital Nomad and a Dog

12. Highway 395, California (another stunning route on the RV vacations list)

• Distance : 201 miles
• Recommended time: 7 days
• Best time of year: Spring or fall

The entire length of Highway 395 is gorgeous, but its southern portion, from Bridgeport, California to Death Valley National Park is next-level epic . It’ll surely be one of your most memorable RV trips on the West Coast (maybe even the whole USA!)

You can even drive along this route as part of a longer trip, such as from Yosemite National Park, whose Tioga Pass entrance is right by Bridgeport (note that this is only accessible from mid-summer through mid-fall).

You’ll drive along the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains the entire time —not only is the scenery breathtaking, but the drive is an RVer’s paradise, with tons of campgrounds and dispersed camping along the way.

Start in the charming town of Bridgeport, where you’ll find the under-the-radar  Buckeye Hot Springs  and Travertine Hot Springs. As an added bonus, there’s lots of dispersed camping spots right by Buckeye in Stanislaus National Forest!

Continue on to Mono Lake , one of the oldest in the United States at over one million years old. The lake is famous for its tufas, unique spires that are a byproduct of calcium carbonate. 

The ski town of Mammoth Lakes is your next stop on one of the best RV road trips in the US. If you visit in the spring, there’s a good chance you’ll still be able to enjoy the fresh powder on Mammoth Mountain , one of the best ski resorts in the country. This area is actually one of the best snowy winter vacations in USA !

During the spring, there’s plenty of natural hot springs to enjoy in Mammoth Lakes as well. 

Next up is Alabama Hills , which looks like something from another planet, with enormous monzogranite boulders scattered across the desert floor and the towering peaks of the Sierras in the background.

Score a spot at the Tuttle Creek Campground to have this scenery as your backyard for a night.

Finally, Death Valley National Park will be the endpoint of your visit. This park is one of the most dynamic in the national park system, offering colorful badlands, sand dunes, salt flats and towering mountains.

If you’re interested in doing more than quickly driving through the park, plan your road trip in either early spring or late fall—it’s famously sweltering in the summer months!

This is easily one of the best RV vacations for those based in or near California.

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

13. Los Angeles to San Diego

• Distance: 120 miles
• Recommended time: 3 days
• Best time of year : Late spring or early fall

A RV road trip from Los Angeles to San Diego is magical. The 110 mile-drive is filled with scenic sights, beaches, and parks.

If driving straight through, expect it to take right around 2 hours, but I highly recommend at least 3 days to ensure you have time to see everything.

The most popular route (and the most scenic of them all) is the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). It is also known as Highway 1. It offers the stunning views of the California coastline.

While driving, make sure to take the exit 62 to Las Pulgas Road because it offers an oceanic panoramic view that can take your breath away.

After continuing down Highway 1 on one of the best RV trips west coast, you will pass by Huntington Beach and Laguna Beach . They are some of the most popular beach towns in California. If you have time, they would be a good place to stop for brunch, swimming, or just to soak up the sun.

It’s no secret that California is home to some busy roads! The best time of the day to start this road trip is before morning rush hour to avoid the congestion. If you do not make stops along the way, you could even make it all the way to San Diego without any traffic issues!

Finally, after arriving in San Diego you can check out the exciting theme parks such as Seaworld, Disneyland, or Legoland. There’s so many things to do in San Diego with kids , it makes for a great family RV vacation for the whole family!

No matter how you choose to spend your time in California , it will surely be one of your most beloved RV vacations!

Recommended by Ossama of Awesome Traveler

RV road trips in the east

Traditionally the western part of the USA is known for its outdoor adventure, and a great spot for RVers. However, the eastern part of the US has some pretty spectacular RV vacation ideas too. Check these out!

14. Florida’s A1A

• Distance: 338.7 miles
• Recommended time: 6-8 days
• Best time of year: Winter

Hop in the RV and fire up the AC for a scenic trip along Florida’s A1A. This State Road runs from Fernandina Beach, just south of Georgia on Amelia Island, to the lively Key West , south of the Sunshine State. It’s one of the very best RV vacation ideas in the USA.

While the drive is pretty, there’s plenty of opportunity to get off the route to see Florida’s coastal cities.

Visit some of the “oldest” streets and buildings in the country at  St. Augustine , spend the day at the beach in Flagler, or watch the fast cars of Daytona.

Continue along the road and be sure to climb the stairs at Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse in New Smyrna, go shopping at West Palm Beach and admire the Art Deco in Miami Beach.

Finally, you’ll get to drive over the famous Seven Miles Bridge to the Florida Keys.

According to Google Maps , doing the route with no stops would take just over nine hours. However, many locations featured in the trip are notorious for traffic, so factor this time in. 

Obviously, you’ll want to make stops at attractions, how many will be dictated by your set vacation time! 

There are plenty of options for RVs to camp along the route, such as the Beverly Beach Camptown RV Resort, which has Atlantic Ocean views. Bliss. 

The best time to visit the East Coast of Florida depends on hurricane patterns, with the season running from June until November.

Also, the summer months might be too humid for out-of-staters. While winter is too cold for locals, visitors enjoy the warm temperatures, relatively crowd-free beaches, and the chance to see manatees!  

Recommended by Amanda of Hey! East Coast USA

15. Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park (a great RV vacation for fall colors!)

• Distance: Skyline Drive is 105 miles from Waynesboro to Front Royal, Virginia. 
• Recommended time: 3 hours to drive this 35-mph road, but you’ll want to stop and stay in one or two of the campgrounds. 
• Best time of year: October is the perfect time to take in the fall colors and enjoy cooler weather. 

If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful RV routes in the United States, then Skyline Drive is a must-do! Spanning 105 miles of gorgeous mountain scenery in Shenandoah National Park, this picturesque roadway is perfect for RV travelers.

It traverses the entire length of the park and offers easy access to all the amenities and activities the park has to offer.

Although you can drive the entire length of Skyline Drive in just a few hours, you won’t want to leave that soon. And with four  campgrounds in Shenandoah National Park , you don’t have to either!

All of the campgrounds have plenty of pull-thru and back-in sites for all sizes of RVs. There aren’t any hookups (water, power, or sewer), but they do have bathrooms, showers, and dump stations. They are seasonal with a range of operation between March and November each year. 

The drive is home to 61 overlooks allowing your ample opportunity to stop and take in the views of the Shenandoah Valley and the Massunutten mountains.

If you want to experience more of the park on foot, be sure to enjoy some of its 500 miles of trails, including some of the most beautiful waterfalls you’ll experience on the east coast. 

One caution for RVers is the low clearance Mary’s Rock Tunnel near Thorton Gap at mile 32. The clearance is only 12’8”, but there are four entrances to Skyline Drive so if your RV is higher than that, you can access it via one of the other points. 

This fun drive is by far one of the best RV trips in the US, and one worthy of putting on your bucket list!

Recommended by Julie of Chickery’s Travels 

16. Boston to Portland

• Distance: 110 miles
• Recommended time: 2-5 days
• Best time of year: Summer or Fall

Making a trip from Boston, MA to Portland, ME can be a fun and easy road trip for those who are looking for a short but beautiful RV route.

Normally the drive is just two hours long (110 miles) on I-95, but if you can spare some extra time there are plenty of scenic stops and charming seaside towns to extend your drive. 

Start your journey in Boston, Massachusetts which is a fun city to explore in itself. If you have a day or two, be sure to check out these date ideas in Boston if you’re on this road trip as a duo!

Don’t forget to stop at world-famous Fenway Park (Go Sox!). Check out the Freedom Trail and join a guided walking tour of some of the city’s most iconic historic sites.

Continue your journey in Salem, Massachusetts and explore the history of the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. If you’re visiting in October, there are specialized tours like Hocus Pocus and ghost tours that will help you get in spooky mood!

Head north to the charming seaside town of Ogunquit, Maine for a quintessential  New England beach town . This picturesque town is only four miles long and boasts stunning ocean views as well as a quaint town center. Dont forget to grab a lobster roll!

Cape Elizabeth Maine is a perfect stop to see some quintessential New England lighthouses. There are three main lighthouses – Portland Head Light, Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, and Bug Light. 

Finally, end your trip in the city of Portland. It is a hub for art and culture, with plenty of food and drink spots to explore. It’s a fun town to explore, and a perfect stopping point for one of the best RV vacations routes in America.

Visit local breweries like Allagash or Moon Dog Craft Brewery, or take a ferry out to Peaks Island to explore the seashore. 

Optional: you could even take the road trip a step farther and go north to Acadia National Park or Bar Harbor. Maine has so many destinations to offer visitors but a Portland RV road trip is a must!

Recommended by Sierra of Your Guide to Wandering

17. Miami to Islamorada (top routes for RV travel USA)

Distance: 90 miles Recommended time: 2 – 3 days Best time of year: Winter and Spring

Traveling to the Florida Keys with your family or friends is an exciting RV road trip. While Key West is the most well-known island to visit, traveling to Islamorada is even better.

Islamorada’s waters are famous for their clarity and rich marine life , earning the title of “Sport Fishing Capital of the World.” Legends like Zane Grey and Ernest Hemingway used to frequent the area to catch big game fish.

It’s situated about 80 miles southwest of Miami, and the driving distance between the two destinations typically covers around 90 miles, depending on the route. Depending on traffic and route selection, it usually takes between 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours to reach Islamorada. However, you’ll want to spend time in Miami and Islamorada to enjoy the destination.

The best time of year to visit Islamorada is during the winter and spring months, specifically from December to April. This period is characterized by warm and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and water sports. 

The average temperatures range from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-29 degrees Celsius), providing comfortable conditions for exploring the area.

Additionally, visiting during this time allows you to avoid the peak tourist season, which occurs during the summer months when temperatures are hotter and the area can be more crowded.

You’ll definitely want to stay at least 2 days in Islamorada if not 3. This is a great, relaxing drive allows you to get in touch with marine life and nature, and is by far one of the best RV road trips.

While in Islamorada, be sure to visit Olive Morada , which is a local shop that has delicious olive oil and balsamic vinegar, which you can do a free tasting. Plus, it’s a great shop if you are in need of souvenirs that are not cheesy.

A stay at Tavernier Elks Lodge makes this one of the best RV vacations in the USA. Just be sure to reserve your campsite early as space is limited!

Islamorada is a great RV road trip because it is gorgeous, relaxing, and allows you to reconnect with nature and loved ones.

Recommended by Fuse of Fuse Travels

More RV vacations in the US

Rounding out this list are a few of my personal favorites. From the incredible dramatic landscapes of Utah, the underrated Midwest and the beachy coasts, let’s finish out this guide to the best RV routes in the US!

18. Utah’s Mighty 5 (another favorite on this list of RV road trips)

• Distance: 362 miles
• Recommended time: 6-10 days
• Best time of year: spring or fall

This is it! One of the very best RV vacations in the United States, and it’s sooo good! This Utah national parks road trip covers a lot of ground, and some truly spectacular sights.

Starting in Moab, Utah, you’ll discover two nearby national parks. There are many things to do in Moab and you’ll want to spend at least two days there. A great RV campground between Arches and Canyonlands is Sun Outdoors Canyonlands Gateway.

Spend a day exploring Arches National Park. Hike to the famous Delicate Arch and see The Windows area , where there’s several arches within a few minutes walk from the parking lot.

In Canyonlands National Park, be sure to visit the Grand View Point Overlook, Green River Overlook and Mesa Arch. The canyon is beyond impressive! And with fewer visitors than Arches, you may even get a break from the crowds!

Between Moab and Capitol Reef National Park, enjoy the incredible Utah Scenic Byway 24 in your RV . In Capitol Reef, visit the Fruita Historic District and the orchards, and hike the Hickman Bridge Trail . On your way to the next park, stay in Wonderland RV Park .

A personal favorite along this incredible RV road trip is the Scenic Byway 12 between Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon. The views are out of this world – and just continue as you see the famous hoodoos in Bryce Canyon National Park.

Bryce Point and Inspriration Point offer amazing views of the park. And if you’re up for a hike, check out the popular Queens Garden Trail and Navajo Loop to hike down into the canyon through the funky rock formations. So fun!

Your last stop on this RV vacation is Zion National Park. Home to an amazing canyon, this park is often a bucket list check for travelers. The Zion Canyon Campground just outside the park or Watchman Campground inside the park are both great for RVs.

Hike the Canyon Overlook Trail or The Narrows for incredible views of Zion. And regardless of whether you’re traveling to Zion with kids in the RV or not, this will be a highlight of your trip!

Pro tip: When you’re driving through Zion, the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel is tricky to navigate. You’ll pay a separate fee to drive an RV through the tunnel, and you’ll want to time it right to arrive during business hours because the NPS will actually block off traffic to allow your RV to drive down the center of the road. It’s quite the experience!

When you’re thinking about RV travel USA, the Mighty 5 in Utah is the perfect adventure!

19. Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Scenic Byway Trail

• Distance: 293 miles
• Recommended time: 2+ days
• Best time of year: summer

This is truly a hidden gem in the US, and one of the best RV vacation ideas if you live in the Midwest . It connects Toledo with Conneaut, hitting major towns like Sandusky and Cleveland. It’s RV-friendly and offers a ton of outdoor recreation along the way.

The Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Scenic Byway Trail is located along Lake Erie, one of the Great Lakes in the northern US. Although you could technically drive this in one day in an RV, it’s much more exciting to stop at the many adventures along the way.

Starting at the west end of the trail in Toledo, check out the botanical gardens, museums, zoo and restaurants. Just near Toledo is a fun Ohio pumpkin farm , Fleitz Pumpkin Farm. In Port Clinton, be sure to enjoy a meal in the adorable downtown. Afterwards, head to the beach at Waterworks Park and the Port Clinton Lighthouse.

One of my favorite stops along this route is the Marblehead Lighthouse. This free attraction is also the most photographed spot on Lake Erie. It just screams summer on the lake vibes!

There’s also so many things to do in Sandusky Ohio , nearby. Get your thrills at Cedar Point, the 2nd oldest amusement park in America. And bonus: it has RV-friendly parking.

Further along the Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Scenic Byway Trail is Cleveland, the home of rock and roll. Enjoy the North Coast Harbor, the Great Lakes Science Center and of course, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

The next stop in your RV should be Headlands Beach State Park in Mentor. This gem includes a natural, mile-long beach perfect for relaxing. A perfect addition to one of the best RV trips in the Midwest!

Lastly, Conneaut Township Park is a fun spot to see on the far eastern end of the scenic trail. If you’re a history buff, you won’t want to miss the D-Day reenactment at the park each year.

Other outdoor adventures along the route include hiking, biking and a plethora of water sports. There’s also so much wildlife to be seen, especially in the active summer months. This underrated and scenic RV vacation is one of the best in the Midwest!

20. Denver to Santa Fe (another underrated spot on this list of RV vacation ideas)

• Distance: The easiest and quickest route from Denver, CO to Santa Fe, NM is 392 miles.
• Recommended time: This drive could easily be done in one day or could be drawn out over 3-4 days.
• Best time of year: Fall is one of the best times to take this road trip because of the moderate temperatures and fall foliage that you get to experience along the way.

A road trip from Denver to Santa Fe must be on your bucket list as one of the best RV vacations to embark on throughout the United States. This trip takes about 6 hours in length, making it the perfect road trip to take in one day or to spread out over 3-4 days! 

As you make your way from Denver towards Santa Fe, you will pass through an abundance of beautiful terrain and popular towns. 

About an hour and a half into the drive, you will pass through the marvelous town of Colorado Springs!

For those looking to catch some tremendous views of the surrounding mountains and red rock formations, be sure to stop by the Garden of the Gods . This is the perfect stop for those looking to stretch their legs for a bit and take in the beautiful Colorado landscape. The Siamese Twins Garden of the Gods hike is perfect for a quick adventure!

For those looking to extend their stay in the area, the Garden of the Gods RV Resort is the perfect destination to stop for a night or two along the way. 

After visiting Colorado Springs, we recommend continuing your drive one of the best RV road trips, south through several smaller towns and along I-25 until you arrive at the charming city of Santa Fe so that you can spend as much time exploring this marvelous town as possible. 

We recommend staying for a minimum of 72 hours in Santa Fe so that you can take in the immense history, culture, and cuisine that this delightful city has to offer!

Recommended by Abby of Trekking Price’s

Related read: Denver to Albuquerque Drive: 10 Scenic Stops You Can’t Miss

21. Austin to Corpus Christi

• Distance: 217 miles
• Best time of year: December – May

This fun and unique RV vacation idea for those located in or near Texas! Because of the extreme heat in Texas, this road trip would be best done in the winter or spring. Just make sure your RV is set up for freezing temperatures as that can sometimes in the deep of winter too.

Start this adventure in the lively town of Austin . With a plethora of street art, live music, good food and entertainment, spend a day (or 2) in Austin.

For outdoor adventures, go hiking in McKinney Falls State Park or check out the views from the top of Mount Bonnell. There are plenty of Austin campgrounds for RVs, too.

From Austin, drive southwest to San Antonio. Visit the famous San Antonio River Walk for entertainment and restaurants. For some thrilling entertainment, visit Six Flags Fiesta Texas, which is open year-round.

Check out The Alamo and the Historic Market Square to round out your time in San Antonio. The KOA in San Antonio puts you in a good position for hopping on and off the main roads while putting you close to the action.

After leaving San Antonio, head south to Corpus Christi. This Texas town has some fun things to do including museums, shopping and restaurants. But the star of the area is the beach-camping in your RV!

Just southeast of Corpus Christi are a few RV parks where you can camp on the beach. Wake up to the sound of the ocean from your RV – so fun! The Port Aransas area is lots of fun, and is home to On the Beach RV Park, which offers a great stay. Book in advance to get a good spot!

For an off-the-grid adventure, you can camp, hike and enjoy water activities at Padre Island National Seashore. There’s no RV hook-ups, but there is water and a dump station in the park.

If you’re looking for the best RV travel USA, this road trip is certainly a fun one, and unique because of beach camping.

22. New Orleans to Panama City (another gorgeous route on this list of best RV vacations)

• Distance: New Orleans to Panama City: 327 miles (via I-10 E), 386 miles (via I-10 E and US-98 E)
• Recommended time : 1-2 days  
• Best time of year: May – October 

An RV road trip is one of the best ways to explore a new part of the country. With the freedom to pull off or take a detour on a whim, road trips always make for memorable adventures. The stretch of road between New Orleans to Panama City offers a great RV vacation experience. 

Travelers should begin their road trip in New Orleans, home of jazz, voodoo history, riverboat adventures, and so much more. Make sure to take a  New Orleans food tour or cemetery tour before continuing on toward Panama City. 

Travelers who want to travel efficiently and stick to the shortest route won’t run into any exceptionally fun cities or attractions, except for Mobile, Alabama. But, those who have a bit more time to work with might enjoy slight detours to Biloxi, Mississippi, and Pensacola, Florida. 

There are some amazing beaches to explore along this route if schedules allow for a detour to the coast. Fort Walton Beach, Pensacola Beach, and Santa Rosa Beach are just some of the picturesque places travelers can visit along their way to Panama City.   

Travelers who avoid the coastal detour will also be able to enjoy the beach upon arrival in Panama City. Panama City Beach is a wonderful place to spend some time in the sun as well as St. Andrews State Park. 

Spring through early Fall is the best time of year to take this road trip. Here’s to wonderful RV adventures! 

Recommended by Candice of Exploring the Gulf

23. Badlands to Theodore Roosevelt National Park (get ready for beautiful landscapes on this RV road trip)

• Distance: 338 miles
• Recommended time: 3 – 4 days
• Best time of year: spring, summer or fall

An all-American road trip, this scenic route has surprisingly dramatic landscapes! This is one of the most underrated RV vacations on this list, but is sure to be a fun one.

Starting in Rapid City or Wall, South Dakota, head to Badlands National Park. You’ll want to spend a full day here to see the highlights. Drive the scenic loop, with 16 overlooks in just 39 miles, it’s RV-friendly. The Notch Trail is a must-do if you love hiking, and Pinnacles Overlook is one of the best with ample parking.

From there, take a slight detour before heading to North Dakota to see Mount Rushmore , one of the most famous South Dakota landmarks .

An American classic, this presidential tribute is a fun attraction for all ages to visit. Completed in 1941, Mount Rushmore welcomes over 3 million visitors – almost 3x the amount of the nearby national park!

Rapid City is a great spot to set up camp for the night. Or, there’s plenty of campgrounds near Sturgis, South Dakota as well. And if you’re in the off-season, stop in town and pick up a souvenir on your road trip!

Pro tip: summer is a great time for this RV road trip, but I’d suggest avoiding late July and early August. This region in South Dakota is extremely congested with the annual Sturgis event, making it extremely difficult to find a campground and a dramatic increase in traffic to the area.

From Sturgis, it’s about 3.5 hours north to Theodore Roosevelt National Park. To see the highlights of this park, you’ll want 2 full days. There are 3 distinct areas of the park: South Unit, North Unit, and Elkhorn Ranch. The Elkhorn Ranch Unit is partially unpaved, and not very RV-friendly so we’ll skip that in this guide.

The South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park is by far the most visited area . Drive the Wildlife Loop Road, where visitors can often see bison, elk, bighorn sheep and pronghorn. Hike the 1-mile Painted Canyon Nature Trail or Buck Hill, which is barely more than a walk to an overlook rather than a hike.

The North Unit feels much more deserted versus the southern area of the park, yet offers expansive views. Take the scenic drive in hopes of seeing mule deer, coyote, pronghorn and even beavers! The Little Mo Trail is a crowd favorite, coming in at less than a mile and paved.

If you want to get campground reservations for your RV, plan your trip in advance as they sell out quickly, especially in the summer months.

So the next time you think about RV travel USA, consider the Dakotas a great spot for a vacation!

RV vacations recap

What an epic list of RV vacations to take in the United States! From fan-favorites, to underrate gems, the options are truly endless! Where will your home on wheels take you next?

Here’s a quick recap of the best RV trips from the above list!

Best RV routes

• Great Smoky Mountains: Asheville to Gatlinburg
• Alaska RV road trip
• Milwaukee to Ludington
• Phoenix to Page, Arizona
• San Francisco to Lake Tahoe
• Santa Fe to White Sands National Park
• Las Vegas to Zion plus the Grand Canyon
• Sequoia National Park to Monterey via Big Sur
• Glacier to Yellowstone National Park
• Joshua Tree and Death Valley National Park
• Ashland to Crater Lake National Park
• Highway 395, California
• Los Angeles to San Diego
• Florida’s A1A
• Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park
• Boston to Portland
• Miami to Islamorada
• Utah’s Mighty 5
• Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Scenic Byway Trail
• Denver to Santa Fe
• Austin to Corpus Christi
• New Orleans to Panama City
• Badlands to Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Related content to read next: 30 Gorgeous West Coast Road Trip Routes You Gotta See to Believe 29 Amazing Road Trips USA: Scenic (& Underrated) Routes You’ll Love 26 Absolute Best (and Underrated) Fall Drives in the US You’ve Gotta See to Believe

Find this post helpful? Save it for later or share it on social media!

Sunday 9th of July 2023

Yeeees Nikki!

You choose the best trips as you are so good at including gorgeous natural sights and hikes along the way! The Alaska trip looks like a dream! I am also looking forward to your post after your next Canadian Rockies trip. :)

Monday 10th of July 2023

Thanks so much Josy! Your comment was so nice! Yes, I can't wait for new adventures taking the RV into Canada, too!💙

Anna Schaeffer

Saturday 8th of July 2023

I'm hoping to get a five wheeler in the next year or two! Pinning this for later. Great post!

Oh yay Anna! This would be great inspiration for a new RV!!

I don’t own a RV but this article makes me want to rent one and try these trips! Great roundup.

Oh Terri that's a fabulous idea! You could literally go anywhere on this list too - just fly into the nearest airport, rent an RV and hit the road!

Ready to plan your next RV road trip?

Use the best RV road trip planner to get the most out of your trip.

The Gemini Giant

Wilmington, IL

World's Largest Catsup Bottle

Collinsville, IL

Blue Whale of Catoosa

Catoosa, OK

Golden Driller

Albuquerque

Albuquerque, NM

You’re always a short detour from an

Extraordinary place.

Our collection of more than 300 Extraordinary Places will take your trip to the next level. Look for the illustrations on our maps and read our takes on what make these places so special. We’ve been there, and we think you should go, too.

Monument Valley

Oljato-monument valley, az.

Salvation Mountain

Kenai Fjords National Park

White Sands National Park

Alamogordo, nm, your rv co-pilot.

A Roadtrippers membership helps you get the most out of your trip. Explore adventures along your route and add up to 150 stops. Looking for campsites? The coolest roadside attractions? The best food? Find all of it, and then let the Roadtrippers iOS or Android app guide you on the open road.

RV Trip Planning Made Easier

Roadtrippers helps you plan the best RV road trips. Find the coolest “off the beaten path” stops along your route. Our maps highlight millions of the world’s most fascinating places, empowering you to discover adventure around every turn. Most guides online tell you were to go, but Roadtrippers makes it easy for you to plan your perfect RV road trip.

Build your perfect road trip

Tell us where you want to go and what you'd like to see and do. Roadtrippers will help you find all the best stops along the way.

• Places to Camp
• Sights & Attractions
• The Great Outdoors
• Bars & Restaurants
• Hotels & Unique Stays
• Activities & Experiences
• Fuel & Rest Stops

Ready to start your adventure?

• Trip guides
• Voices from the Road
• Destinations
• Trip Planner
• Sign up Log in Sign out
• Log in Sign out
• ROADTRIPPERS MEMBERSHIP

Plan your journey, find amazing places, and take fascinating detours with our app.

We couldn't find an existing Roadtrippers account using that service. Please try signing in with another option or create a new account with Roadpass.

We need your email address to send you trip itineraries and other updates.

RVing with Rex

Living his dream, Rex Vogel is a Snowbird with a passion for RVing, photography, hiking, and birding.

The Ultimate RV Travel Bucket List: 51 Best Places to Visit in North America

Your road map to hidden gems, cherished natural wonders, and iconic monuments across North America

Are you looking for travel bucket list ideas for your next RV trip? Running out of ideas or looking for fresh ones? From epic classics to exciting newcomers, we have selected the 51 most amazing places to visit or things to do in the U.S. and Canada. Of course, there are many more than 51 places worth visiting.

We have traveled by RV in 47 states and four Canadian provinces but barely made a dent (and our list continues to grow longer and longer).

It’s time to pack the RV and discover beautiful and awe-inspiring places across North America. Following are many of our favorite destinations in the US and Canada to satisfy your wanderlust.

Badlands National Park : South Dakota

With ochre-tinted buttes, graceful spires, and fossil-rich landscapes, Badlands National Park, in southwest South Dakota, entrances visitors with its ethereal vistas.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park : North Carolina and Tennessee

Great Smoky Mountains National Park attracts outdoorsy types with its sublime mountain scenery and beautiful old-growth forests.

Banff National Park: Alberta

Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff is Canada’s first (and arguably most beautiful) National Park.

Charleston : South Carolina

With its Spanish moss, historic architecture, coastal scenery and graceful antebellum mansions, Charleston oozes Southern charm.

Bryce Canyon National Park : Utah

Otherworldly rust-colored hoodoo rock formations are on full display at this popular national park.

Blue Ridge Parkway : North Carolina and Virginia

The nearly 500 miles of blacktop twisting through the Great Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah national parks was built for travelers seeking Appalachian overlooks.

Sedona : Arizona

Sedona attracts nature lovers with its desert landscapes, surreal red rocks, and enchanting vortexes, places where the earth’s energy is reportedly amplified.

Joshua Tree National Park : California

With jaw-dropping desert scenery, prickly Joshua trees, and distinct boulder rock formations, Joshua Tree mesmerizes visitors with its eye-catching landscapes.

Zion National Park : Utah

If your perfect bucket-list includes hitting scenic hiking trails, it’s hard to rival the otherworldly landscapes in Utah’s Zion National Park.

Wells Gray Country : British Columbia

Wells Gray has something to offer every outdoor interest: lush alpine meadows, birding and wildlife viewing, hiking, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and 41 breathtaking waterfalls.

Boston Freedom Trail : Massachusetts

Walk this 2.5-mile path (just follow the red-brick line) that passes 16 historical landmarks from Paul Revere’s house and the Old North Church to Bunker Hill and Old Ironside.

Scenic Byway 12 : Utah

The red rock majesty of Utah is on triumphant display on Scenic Byway 12 winding between Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon national parks.

Green Mountain Byway: Vermont’s Route 100

The billboard-free Route 100 winds through some of Vermont’s most quintessentially Vermonty villages, with all the cider donuts and country stores that go with them.

Dead Horse Point State Park : Utah

Towering 2,000 feet above the Colorado River, Dead Horse Point is an iconic peninsula of rock sitting on top of incredible vertical sandstone cliffs.

Tombstone: Arizona

Arguably America’s most infamous Old West town, Tombstone, is the perfect place to see what life was like during the days of the Wild West.

Jekyll Island Club Resort : Georgia

Follow in the footsteps of visitors like J.P. Morgan and the Pulitzer family as you golf, bike, boat, swim, or trot along on a horse-drawn carriage.

Santa Fe : New Mexico

A city that embraces its natural environment, Santa Fe is a city whose beautiful adobe architecture blends with the high desert landscape.

Remember the Alamo : San Antonio, Texas

Home of the famous 1836 battle, the beautiful 300-year-old former Spanish mission turned fortress is the heart of San Antonio and Texas’ most visited historic landmark.

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge : Georgia

Hop aboard a flat-bottomed boat and keep your eyes peeled for alligators, egrets, and hawks during a tour of the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge.

Canyon de Chelly National Monument : Arizona

Canyon de Chelly has sandstone walls rising up to 1,000 feet, scenic overlooks, well-preserved Anasazi ruins, and an insight into the present-day life of the Navajo.

Mesa Verde National Park : Colorado

A great concentration of ancestral Pueblo Indian dwellings, built from the 6th to the 12th century, can be found on the Mesa Verde plateau in southwestern Colorado.

Red Rocks State Park : Sedona, Arizona

Red Rock State Park is a 286-acre nature preserve and environmental education center with stunning scenery.

Monument Valley : Arizona and Utah

The iconic landscape of Monument Valley symbolizes the American West worldwide with its towering buttes and sweeping skies.

My Old Kentucky Home State Park : Kentucky

My Old Kentucky Home State Park honors the home that was the symbol of Stephen Foster’s endearing song, the stately mansion on the Rowan Estate known as Federal Hill.

Mitchell Corn Palace : South Dakota

The World’s Only Corn Palace is a quirky but cool multi-purpose arena in Mitchell.

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument : Washington

The eruption of Mount St. Helens caused a huge landslide to sweep through the Toutle River Valley and remove 1,306 feet from the top of the volcano.

Shiner : Texas

Shiner, Texas is home to 2,069 people, Friday’s Fried Chicken, and—most famously—the Spoetzal Brewery where every drop of Shiner beer is brewed.

Gulf State Park: Alabama

Gulf State Park’s two miles of beaches greet you with plenty of white sand, surging surf, seagulls, and sea shells, but there is more than sand and surf to sink your toes into.

Icefields Parkway: Alberta

The Icefield Parkway is a 144-mile highway winding along the Continental Divide through soaring rocky mountain peaks, icefields, and vast sweeping valleys.

Cherohala Skyway : North Carolina and Tennessee

Travel the Cherohala Skyway and enjoy panoramic vistas as you wind through the Southern Appalachian high country.

Catalina Highway : Arizona

With a nearly 7,000-foot elevation change in a mere 24 miles, the Catalina Highway is a brilliant ascent with countless curves, numerous vistas, and three major switchbacks.

Myakka River State Park : Florida

Seven miles of paved road wind through shady hammocks, along grassy marshes, and the shore of the Upper Myakka Lake. See wildlife up-close on a 45-minute boat tour.

Natural Bridges National Monument : Utah

These three majestic natural bridges were formed by the power of water in a landscape usually defined by its absence. View them from an overlook or hit the trails.

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument : Arizona

Organ Pipe Cactus is the only place in the U.S. where the organ pipe cactus grows wild.

San Antonio Missions : Texas

The San Antonio Missions are a group of five frontier mission complexes situated along a 7.7-mile stretch of the San Antonio River.

Incline Railway : Chattanooga, Tennessee

Take the incline railway up a 72.7-percent grade on Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga. It’s like driving up an insanely pretty wall.

Lassen Volcanic National Park: California

See all four types of volcanoes—cinder cone, composite, shield, and plug dome. Plenty of hydro- and geothermal activity is still found in Lassen Volcanic National Park today.

Okanagan Wine Region : British Columbia

Okanagan wine region is possibly the most scenic wine region in North America and a place where RVers and other normal people can afford to taste wine.

Cedar Breaks National Monument : Utah

At an elevation of over 10,000 feet, Cedar Breaks looks down into a majestic geologic amphitheater, a three-mile long cirque of eroding limestone, shale, and sandstone.

Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park : Alberta

A wide green valley, steep sandstone cliffs, strange rock formations called hoodoos, and rock art—all of these things make Writing-on-Stone a special place.

Lake Powell : Utah and Arizona

Spend a week on Lake Powell boating through slot canyons, anchoring on deserted beaches, and camping under the stars.

Creole Nature Trail : Louisiana

Louisiana’s prairies, marshes and shores teem with wildlife, and a drive along the Creole Nature Trail gives visitors a chance to experience nature’s bounty up close.

Grand Canyon National Park : Arizona

“Grand” doesn’t do this canyon justice. Measuring approximately 277 river miles in length, up to 18 miles in width and a mile deep, this massive chasm is a natural wonder.

Jasper National Park: Alberta

The largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper is the wildest of the mountain parks and contains the world famous Columbia Icefields.

Congaree National Park : South Carolina

Congaree National Park showcases the largest tract of old-growth floodplain forest remaining on the continent.

Black Hills : South Dakota

Driving through this corner of South Dakota takes you through some of the most rugged, distinctive, and beautiful land in America.

Blue Bell Ice Cream : Brenham, Texas

Stop by for a scoop of ice cream at the Ice Cream Parlor, view how Blue Bell is made, shop in the Country Store, and learn more Blue Bell Creameries in the Visitor Center.

Colonial Williamsburg : Virginia

A living history museum and two art museums offer something for everyone, from hands-on activities to original 18th-century buildings to a folk-art collection.

Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Awaken your senses and explore the birthplace of Bourbon as you embark on a self-guided journey to discover the story behind Kentucky’s Bourbon Culture.

Ohio Amish Country : Holmes County

Ever wish you could turn the clock back to a time when life was simpler and the wheels turned a little more slowly? Now you can.

Arches National Park : Utah More than 2,000 sandstone arches dot the 47,000-acre landscape of this national park.

Worth Pondering…

“My favorite thing is to go where I have never been,” wrote photographer Diane Arbus, and so it is with us.

http://rv-besttours.com

• (352) 267-0044
• [email protected]
• Clermont, Florida

ONE DESTINATION AT A TIME

Rv dream vacations.

Dream No More – Your RV Dream Vacations are here! Join the adventure with our RV Tour company and experience epic Rally Events all over the USA! Pack your bags and let’s hit the road for the journey of a lifetime.

• Pigeon Forge Smoky Mountain Rally
• 7/16/2024 - 7/21/2024

WE ARE RV ENTHUSIASTS JUST LIKE YOU!

EMBARK ON YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE

With destination rv tours.

Welcome to Destination RV Tours, where every journey transforms into an unforgettable adventure. Join us for your next RV Dream Vacation, as the premier RV touring company in the USA, we specialize in curating exclusive RV events and rallies that bring together scenic beauty, thrilling exploration, and a community of passionate RV travelers. Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or new to the world of RV travel, our tours offer something special for everyone.

EXCLUSIVE EVENTS

Participate in exclusive events that enhance your RV experience. Enjoy the spectacle of the Foley Hot Air Balloon Festival, immerse yourself in the music of Nashville, or unwind at our Key West Getaway.

VIBRANT COMMUNITY

Join a welcoming community of RV enthusiasts who share your passion for travel. Our tours are more than just journeys—they're opportunities to forge lasting friendships and create cherished memories.

EXPERT PLANING

Leave the planning to us. Our tours are meticulously organized to ensure a hassle-free experience. From selecting the best campsites to arranging engaging activities, we handle all the details so you can focus on enjoying the adventure.

DISCOVER OUR EXCLUSIVE RV TOURS

Upcoming rv dream vacations, $1,799 / starting at, 2024 pigeon forge smoky mountain rally.

Join us for this Smoky Mountain adventure for six days of fantastic fun. Great entertainment, beautiful views, exciting tours, not to mention some great food.

• 7/23/2024 - 7/28/2024

2024 Nashville Music City Rally

Nashville, also known as the Music City is home of the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame. If you’re a country music fan, this is the place to be.

• 07/30/24 - 08/04/24

2024 Branson Ozarks Rally

So much to do and explore at the Branson Ozarks! Come experience all the fuzz!

$1,899 / starting at

• 10/8/24 - 10/13/24

2024 Key West Getaway

From Sunrises to Sunsets, join us in this exciting gathering to experience all that is KEY WEST. 

WHY CHOOSE DESTINATION RV TOURS

What others say, explore the country in your rv, your rv dream vacations await, get started today.

Ready to hit the road? Get in on the RV Dream Vacation you so desire! Discover the perfect tour for your next adventure. Contact us today to book your spot, and let’s make unforgettable memories together.

Main Phone: 936-327-3428

• Expert Service
• Travel Methods
• Greater Value
• Understanding RV Caravaning
• Defining RV Rallies
• Overseas In An RV
• Terms & Conditions
• Military Discount Program
• Tiffin Owners Discount Program
• Earn Rewards
• e-Newsletter
• Meet the Staff
• Alaska & The Calgary Stampede
• Alaska Adventures
• Alaska & The Canadian Rockies
• The Ultimate Alaska Adventure
• Canada RV Tours
• United States RV Tours
• Mediterranean
• South Africa
• Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta – 7 Day Rally
• Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta – 6 Day Rally
• Christmas in the Ozarks – Branson
• Christmas In The Smokies – Pigeon Forge
• New York City
• Rose Parade
• Washington DC
• Travel Insurance
• Catalog Request

Black Hills to the Rockies

Blue Ridge Country

Civil war & historic usa.

Dixie Belle

Enchanted New Mexico

Fabulous Florida

Fall Foliage & Niagara Falls

Finger Lakes

Get Your Kicks on Route 66

Grand Circle – Western National Parks

Great River Road & Fall Colors

Historic East Coast America

• Terms of Service
• Privacy Policy

RV Caravan Tours

• Latest Posts

• Best State to Buy an RV In to Save Money [Fees & Deals] -
• A Guide to Cooking Lobster Tails on a BBQ (Without Ruining Them) -
• PUMPKIN BUTTERSCOTCH SKILLET COOKIE (GF) -

Wagonmaster

Most RV caravans have a Wagonmaster who heads out first ensuring all reservations for RV Parks or excursions are ready for their customers when they arrive.  The RV owners are given advice as to what direction, the best route, sights to see along the way and given a suggested arrival time at that days destination.

Following the group is a tail gunner who follows along to ensure anyone with any difficulty whether it is regarding breakdowns or accidents are given the services they need to continue with the tour.  The tail gunner is most often an experienced mechanic or Rver with tools and skills to assist as much as possible.  This ensures no one in the group is left sitting along a highway with a breakdown and not able to communicate their need to the group.

Price Includes

Of course each RV caravan tour company is different but for the most part RV Park fees and reservations are included in the tour price.  Some other features usually included are:

• Trip logs (maps)
• Services of Wagonmaster and Tailgunner
• Emergency medical assistance insurance
• Fees for border crossings and visas
• Side excursions (pre-arranged)
• Organized social hours at the end of each day
• Trip preparation packet and check list

They do NOT include the cost of the RV if you are renting one, fuel, food and personal expenses.  When booking your trip ask questions and be sure you know exactly what you are getting for your money.

Although we have not utilized the services of the following companies my research has indicated that they are reputable and reliable.  Do your own research also and see if they offer what you may be looking for.

Adventure Caravans – USA, Alaska, Canada, Mexico, Central America, Overseas

Fantasy RV Tours – Alaska, USA,  Canada, Mexico, New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, Europe

Baja and Back RV Caravan Tours – Mexican Baja –  No longer in business

Baja Amigos RV Caravan Tours – Mexican Baja

Happy travels,

19 thoughts on “RV Caravan Tours”

Very good post. I will be experiencing some of these issues as well..

how or where do I get information on renting a motorhome for a trial run for retirement and join a caravan for an initial experience

Hi Joel, Thanks for your inquiry – here’s a link to a few articles I’ve written on renting an RV. I hope you find them helpful. If not, please email me again with specifics and I’ll do my best to help you. Renting an RV Carol Ann

We are planning to travel to New Zealand to rent motorhomes with another couple in March 2016. Tracks to Adventure no longer seems to exist as a separate entity and that leaves only Fantasy, however their tour includes Australia, not a problem for us but our friends have not shown any interest in that part.

Are you aware of any NZ only caravan packages offered there that we might look into. Web search is daunting as there are so many offers that it is confusing. As an alternative we might consider just doing it the way we travel the US – on our own.

Hi Paul, Nice to hear from you. I am not aware of specific caravan companies in NZ but will see what I can come up with. Maybe one of our readers may be able to help us. Will let you know if I find anything.

Paul, my husband and I rented RV’s in New Zealand for 6 weeks and traveled both islands on our own. Even though we had never experienced a motorhome before, we found it very delightful. The people there are so very friendly and helpful, and we felt very safe. I had written an extensive blog on the journey if you care to read it http://www.TravelTalesOfNormAndAlison.com Click the Tab on New Zealand 2009, then Click on the down arrows on the right, and read the blog from the bottom up. ( The blog is posted most recent entries on top ). Don’t be afraid to do this on your own.

Are you still traveling? If you are interested in writing a post about your travels I may post it on my blog with a link within your bio to your own blog. If interested let me know. Thank you.

We are planning 2 longer (54 days & 82 day)Mexican caravans this season (2014/2015), both will include Copper Canyon & the Monarch Butterfly preserve. Itinerary is at http://www.mexicorvbuddies.com/itinerary.php

Thanks for the information Paul, I would be interested in learning more about your tours – why don’t you put together something telling us about Mexico and we can share it with those readers who are interested in learning more. To everyone, I have not participated or have any affiliation with this tour group but am willing to learn more. Anyone else?

First of all, Baja & Back is now out of business. Barry Monkman tragically died of a heart attack, & his wife, Vonda, decided not to carry on.

This spring a new company is doing a 71 day tour of Mexico’s west coast as far as Puerto Vallarta. It includes tours of Copper Canyon & much more. Starts Jan 12, 2013. See http://www.mexicorvbuddies.com . The caravan will be escorted by The Green Angels and led by an experienced Wagon Master couple. Since this is the first trip for this company (They have organized caravans in Quebec for 25 years), the price is only $3350 per rig, about 1/2 the cost of other competitors.

Thanks for the update Paul. I knew that Barry had passed away and am really sorry for his wife and family. I will remove their link from my list since Vonda has decided not to continue with the business.

Thanks for the link to your site – I have no problem sharing it with my readers. Good luck with it and please keep in touch and let us know how it is doing.

Yes it was a shock, Vonda & I grew up in the same small town in northern BC (Smithers) and I knew both of them well.

Do you have a catalogue of the travels planned for the next few years. If so I would like to have one mailed to me.

Gloria Macdonald 4842 Highway 215,R.R.# 1, Noel, Nova Scotia, B0N 2C0.

Hi Gloria, Not sure if I understand your request but I am a travel writer and not an agency. If you are interested in learning more about my travels or the RV Lifestyle please sign up on the right hand side of the home page on my site and I will definitely keep you up to date on whats happening. Sorry I can’t help you more than that. Happy travels, Carol Ann http://roamingrv.com or visit my other travel site –

Sorry I missed read your article and thought you offered catalogues.

Have you ever visited eastern Canada in the Atlantic Provinces in particular Nova Scotia.

I know the folks at Adventure Caravan-Ron and Juanita Khon-the owners.They do a beautiful job of advertising the Atlantic Provinces with their tours.

Everyone in this area of Canada are always welcoming to those folks and any others that visit.

In this area in particular there is a new campground coming to life -Parkville Campground,Noel, Nova Scotia-with very enthusiastic young owners.I am trying to spread the word and be of any assisstance that is possible.

Happy Travelling

Appreciate your response. Have been traveling the loop this summer and are gathering a lot of good information for the benefit of the RVers joining our caravans. Have signed up to follow your tweets and will continue to follow the website as you provide insightful information.

We are a new RV company. This summer we are traveling our proposed route, lining up campgrounds, activities and adventures. In other words, putting together our package. As our website says, we will be covering a specific route in the southern Colorado Rockies and are only interested in small caravans so more personal attention. We will be offering our tours starting in May 2012 and hope to run 5 tours a season.

Think you sum up RV caravan touring perfectly. These are the things we hope our customers realize are important. Can you offer any ideas for marketing or any general suggestions?

Thanks Sheryl, I visited your site and your caravans definitely sound interesting. I like the idea of smaller caravans for some because of the personal attention and there are people who are more comfortable in a smaller group. Good luck with your new company – I look forward to hearing from you again. Please feel free to sign up for new updates on my blog – I try and update it often and will be putting out a newsletter in the near future.

Pingback: Anonymous

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

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

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Import Page Template

(800) 952-8496.

• Monthly Tour Planner
• Summer RV Tours
• Spring RV Tours
• Fall RV Tours
• Winter RV Tours
• Trip Extensions
• Eastern Canada
• Western Canada
• Eastern USA
• Central USA
• Western USA
• FMCA Club Tours
• AIM Club Tours
• Good Sam Club Tours
• Leisure Travel Van
• Jeep Wrangler
• Exclusive Pricing & Discounts
• Monthly Payment Program
• Why Choose Fantasy
• What's Included - Standard Tour
• Frequent Traveler Program
• Founder's Message
• Our Ambassadors
• Reviews & Testimonials
• RV Shows & Events
• Travel Insurance
• Subscribe & Save

WHAT'S INCLUDED IN A STANDARD TOUR

Once your vacation is reserved, all you need to do is show up in your RV and enjoy these inclusive benefits on every tour. Unlike cruising, you don’t have to pick and choose one or two activities at each destination. We’ve been doing this for over 40 years, we know the “must-see” attractions and little known “best-kept-secrets” independent travelers are sure to miss. We want to make your RV Vacation as stress-free and as enjoyable as possible, so we take care of all the planning and reservations for you.

• Professionally-Planned Routes and Itineraries
• RV Camping Fees
• Events, Meals and Activities*
• Transportation to and from most Included Activities
• Expert Guides – WagonMasters and TailGunners**
• Detailed Trip Logs with Turn-by-Turn Directions and Popular Landmarks
• Regular Briefings and Travel Tips Report from WagonMasters
• Pre-Trip Information Packet and Vehicle Checklist
• Special Socials and Get-Togethers
• Gratuities for Included Meals, Bus Drivers and Special Guides
• Customer Appreciation Gift: Hat or Tote and Tour Pin
• Frequent Traveler Rewards
• Overseas & Polar Bear Tours: In-Country Flights*

Even though there’s an itinerary and planned route, we want you to enjoy your vacation to the greatest extent. We’ll give you time to independently explore and have the freedom to choose the stops along the route that interest you.

*As listed on itinerary **TailGunners only on Caravans with 14 or more guest rigs

TOUR OVERVIEW

Nearly 15,000 years ago, glaciers crawled down North America, leaving behind the legacy of the Great Lakes. These inland waterways contain one-fifth of the planet’s fresh water, creating opportunities for significant industries and energetic cities that surround beautiful and rugged coastlines.

On our 27-Day RV Caravan, we’ll focus on the importance, history and value of the lakes, beginning with the Honeymoon Capital of the World, Niagara Falls, and culminating with Chicago’s Wrigley Field – plus world-famous pizza! Everything in between involves historical landmarks, renowned museums and spectacular boat cruises. Take a carriage tour of Victoria-era Mackinac Island; savor a frosty draft from one of Milwaukee’s breweries.

From vibrant communities to breathtaking emerald forests, this tour promises unforgettable charm and fun-filled experiences!

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

We are an RV caravan company that offers RV caravans and rallies to all self-contained recreational vehicle owners! Have a casita? Travel with us! A 5th wheel? Join us on a destination rally! A Class B motorhome? Travel with us on a caravan! Any other self-contained unit? Come along with us!

Tour Presentations Videos on Facebook!

All our tour presentaions from our Annual Tour Presentations are stored on our Facebook Page, follow this link .  

Hosting fun RV tours for 30+ years!

We have a capable staff of 20 experienced RVers, that have all come from our caravan ranks. You can start your fun adventure today by contacting us. We offer several 6 to 10 day desination RV rallies and 4 driving RV Caravan Expeditions of 20 days or more! Over the last 30+ years more than 6,000 RV'ers have gone with us on our fun RV Caravans in small groups averaging 15 rigs.  Yankee RV offers a "VALUE PACKAGE" that includes narrated travel via 2-way radios, your camping site, many meals, escorted tours, entertainment, group fellowship, and a tail ender and wagon master or hosts. Rod consults to 12 major RV camping resorts and in return is permitted to conduct seminars on caravaning. Thus, he does not have to pass on the high cost of national advertising and catalog mailings to the caravaners. Who else do you know that would appreciate getting information on these adventures? Groups and Camping Clubs: Good news, we will customize most any North American destination with 15+ units.

Owners: Rod & Helen Coe and some of their staff

15 + Day Driving RV Caravan Expeditions:

20-Day Best of Michigan 

See all that Michigan has to offer, from it's industry to it's beautiful coastlines to the UP!

Detroit, MI to Brimley, MI

June 2-21, 2024

To view the timeline and complete an application, follow this link to the  Best of Michigan .

32-Day Canadian Maritimes

See the magnificant Atlantic Provinces of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, and Prince Edward Island.

June 2 - July 3, 2024

To view the timeline or to complete an applciation, follow this link to the  Canadian Maritimes .

38-Day Northwest Expedition

See the magnificant northwest from Medora North Dakota to Coos Bay Oregon.

July 21 - August 27, 2024

To view the timeline or to complete an applciation, follow this link.

15-Day American Mountain Music Tour Starts in Branson MO and follows the music to Mountain View AR, Memphis and Nashville TN.

Sep 8 – 22, 2024

For more information or to see the timeline or get an application, follow this link  American Mountain Music Tour

20-Day Northeast Fall Foliage RV Caravan Tour Maine, Quebec, New Hampshire, and Vermont. 

Sept 15 - Oct. 5, 2024

To view the timeline, get an application or more information, follow this link to the  Northeast Fall Foliage RV Caravan

15-Day Southern Charm 

Tour the south and see all the Southern Charm that Helen GA, Chattanooga TN, Pigeon Forge TN and Ashville NC has to offer.

April 28 - May 12, 2025

To view the timeline and complete an application, follow  this link to Southern Charm tour.

23-Day Historic Rails of the Southeast RV Caravan Choo, choo ... all aboard for some of the most historic train rides in the Southeast. 

Sept 6 - 28, 2024

To view the timeline, get an application or more information, follow this link to the  Historic Rails of the Southeast RV Caravan

Destination RV Rallies

8-Day Autumn Amish Rally in Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Enjoy the fall colors and the simple lifestyle of the Amish of Lancaster PA.

October 17 - 25, 2024

Fore more information or to get an application, follow  this link.

6-Day Key West Fiesta Rally

The Key West Trolly comes to the campground the take you on a private tour, before you can use the hop on-off service for two additional days. The best way to see Key West! 

November 1 - 6, 2024

For more information or to get an application, follow  this link.

6-Day Savannah Georgia Rally

Tour the historic Savannah GA area and enjoy reserved tiered seating at the 2nd largest St Patrick's Day Parade in the US!

March 14 - 19, 2025

For more information or an application, click on  this link.

Dates for our 2024 events

June 2 - 21, 2024 - The Best of Michigan Caravan

June 2 - July 3, 2024 - Canadian Maritimes Caravan

July 21 – August 27, 2024  -  Northwest Expedition Caravan

September 7 - 29, 2024 - Historical Rails of the Southeast Caravan September 8 - 22, 2024  -  American Mountain Music Caravan September 15 – October 5, 2024  -  Northeast Fall Foliage Caravan October 17 - 25, 2024  -  Amish Autumn Rally November 1 - 6, 2024  -  Key West Sunset Celebration Rally

Dates for our 2025 events

March 14 - 19, 2025 - St Patrick's Day in Savannah Rally

April 28 - May 12, 2025 - Southern Charm Caravan

June 2 - 21, 2025 - The Best of Michigan Caravan

June 1 - July 2, 2025 - Canadian Maritimes Caravan

July 18 – August 24, 2025  -  Northwest Expedition Caravan

September 6 - 28, 2025 - Historical Rails of the Southeast Caravan September 7 - 21, 2025  -  American Mountain Music Caravan September 14 – October 4, 2025  -  Northeast Fall Foliage Caravan October 16 - 24, 2025  -  Amish Autumn Rally November 1 - 6, 2025  -  Key West Sunset Celebration Rally

dates are tentative, but very close to actual.

Receive a complimentary Yankee Jacket on the completion of your 2nd trip!

Call Rod and Helen Coe today at 407-973-8288 or e-mail them at  C [email protected]  for your full tour flyer with information on your package price tour that includes campgrounds, many meals, lots of entertainment events, and escorted tours. Note: tips and gratuities for Yankee events are included. Reserve now and save! Rod & Helen Coe, owners of Yankee RV Tours, llc: PO Box 135174,  Clermont, FL  34713-5174

Been on a Yankee adventure? We'd love to hear your comments! Please share below.

Ben & Sheila Harlan ( Tuesday, September 12 23 11:49 am EDT )

There is no comparison with other tour companies. Yankee is THE BEST! If they weren't, we wouldn't be on our 10 tour with them. (We are aiming for 30+ tours & rallies like some of the more "seasoned folks.) Great value, knowledgeable guides, safety in numbers. and we're all able to communicate with each other on their radios.

Jim & Mary Pinckney ( Saturday, December 24 22 03:36 pm EST )

Mary and I have been on Yankee Tours since 2017 and on the competition. Hands down Yankee is 5Star for sure. The wagon mastors are very confident and professional. Entertainment was always top draw.

Spencer LaClair ( Tuesday, October 25 22 10:13 am EDT )

We just finished the Branson tour and what a great experience. The guides were the best. Every where we went it was well planned out and the best meals were provided. I'll comment again because I have more to say.

Dean and Jan Preston ( Monday, December 06 21 07:37 am EST )

We plan to be at the January, 2022, reunion. We will drive in daily from our home about 2 miles away.

Mary lou Witte ( Thursday, May 27 21 09:56 pm EDT )

My husband and I have been on 9 Yankee RV tours and it is by far the best!! Rod and his wife Helen the owners of the co. are so friendly and make you feel like you are part of their family. We have traveled with other RV companies, but for the price and experience we get with Yankee you just can’t beat it !!

MARIANELA SOJO ( Sunday, January 10 21 07:59 pm EST )

it is very interesting to know about you guys, my husband and i just brought a RV and we would like have information to do the tour with you on 6 days Parade St Patricks day also we would love your annual tour presentation.

Jeana Matthews ( Thursday, January 16 20 09:47 am EST )

Very interested in learning more about your tours.

Margo Page ( Sunday, December 08 19 07:20 am EST )

We just love Yankee RV Tours. The trips visit beautiful scenery, take in fantastic events. The camaraderie is the best! Have done 5 caravans and 1 rally so far since I retired in 2015. Thanks Rod and Helen.

Jodi Shinn ( Saturday, October 20 18 10:31 am EDT )

Just visiting your website and looking at your future adventures. Was on 2018 NW expedition and already signed for future tour. I enjoyed the entire experience but even more then the the great places we went to I enjoyed the comaradeie of traveling with the group. You were so much like my dad I'm trying to convince him to take a trip with me. Can't wait to do it again.

Fay and Frank ( Wednesday, August 15 18 06:37 pm EDT )

We have been traveling with Yankee TV Tours since 2010 when we toured the Canadian Maritimes. Have taken every tour they offer and been to most of the Rallies. We have traveled with other companies and there is no comparison. Great planning, great fun. The Best!

Web View Mobile View

• About Us - Contact Us
• 15 to 38-Day Driving RV Caravans
• Destination RV Rallies (8-days or less)
• Annual Tour Presentations - Caravan & Rally Opening List
• Meet Our Staff

Contact Us Today!

Owners Rod & Helen Coe

Phone: 407-973-8288

E-mail: C [email protected]

Yankee RV Tours, LLC

PO Box 135174 Clermont, FL  34713-5174

Visit our Facebook page and our associated groups!

Keep up to date with the latest news and photos from our travels. Post photos, videos, and meet others from Yankee!

• Member Login
• Sign Up/Renew

The Best RV Trip Planner

RV Trip Planning has never been easier. Save time, plan safe RV routes, find great campgrounds.

Start Free 7 Day Trial Now Begin Building Your First Trip Now Not Ready to Sign Up? Try the Demo

Best-In-Class Features

A Visual RV Trip Planner

See the Route you are taking, with Campgrounds, Gas Stops, points of interest and more.

Unbiased Information

Customized to your RV

It customizes RV safe Routes to the height & weight of your RV. Avoid low clearances, steep grades, and propane restrictions.

Over 20,000 Campgrounds

Browse from ALL Campground Affiliations (Good Sam, Passport America, etc...). No Restrictions like other tools.

Over 57,000 Points of Interest

The fun of travel and exploring is finding unique places. We have an ever-growing list of locations to choose from.

Web Based, No Installation

Have a web browser? Of course you do, so don't worry about downloading any applications, or applying updates. Its all built on the web.

Rank Your Memberships

If you have a membership like Good Sam, Escapees, or dozens of others, you can rank them so you can find the best value parks.

Understand the Cost of your Trip

The Wiz will help to estimate the cost of your trip with Gas and Campground Fees. Updated as you update your trip.

Set Driving Times and Distances

Set your Driving Distances and the map will show you if you may have stretched yourself too thin on a leg of your trip.

How RV LIFE Trip Wizard can help you

Watch a quick video to learn about some of the many features that make RV LIFE Trip Wizard the best choice for RVers looking to save time and money with their Trip Planning.

All The Information you need

See all the information you're looking for on your devices. Our Trip Planner is set up so you can do everything from one screen. Your trip on the left panel, your map centered, and your research panel to the right to find campgrounds, points of interest, and potential hazards.

An RV GPS in your pocket

Combine RV LIFE Trip Wizard with the RV LIFE App, and we'll make the days you head out the road a breeze. Get RV Safe GPS routing right on your phone or tablet with the RV LIFE App. RV LIFE Trip Wizard seamlessly integrates its trips into your app.

Simple & Affordable

Hear from some people who love using it.

My husband and I are full time RVers in a 45ft 5th wheel toy hauler. I use RV Trip Wizard to plan our route. It has made my trip planning so much easier since I can filter out campgrounds that cannot accommodate our trailer. The ability to check reviews and to go to the campgrounds' websites from the app is also extremely useful. I recommend RV Trip Wizard to other RVers all the time.

If you are worried about low bridges on your trip or where the best, low cost parks are, worry no more because this App is absolutely the best RV trip planer out there. We've tried them all and this ones smokes them all. Spot on! If you have a smart phone or a tablet, RV Trip Wizard works with either, we absolutely rely on it and would not leave our home without planning our route with this tool first. Highly recommend it…

We took a 3 month trip last year and I looked for a good trip planner. I tried winging it with google earth and researching the internet at first. Then I found RV Trip Wizard. I thought I try it. Just a few hours in to planning our trip I was hooked. It has everything I need to plan our trips. Way worth the small price. And the great part it's got better since last years trip. They keep adding and making it better all the time. I've got this years about ready to go and a few small side trips already planned.

Works on All Popular Computers and Tablets

THE 10 BEST Moscow City Tours

City tours in moscow.

• Private Tours
• Walking Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3rd Transport Ring (TTK)
• District Central (TsAO)
• Garden Ring
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Moscow Private Tours

2. Moscow through the Eyes of an Engineer

3. Moscow Free Tour

4. Spanish Guide Moscow - Day Tours

5. Bridge to Moscow

6. Go Russia Travel Company

7. Privilege Tour

8. Moscow Navigator

9. Put-in Tours

10. Walks With Folks

11. Moskovskiye Gulyaki

12. Moscow Bike Tours

13. Happy Moscow Tours

14. Tour of Moscow - Day Tours

15. Kremlin Tour

16. IdeaGuide - Your Personal Guide in Moscow

17. Tsar Visit

18. VikiTours

19. Moscow Greeter

20. MoscowMe

21. Excursions in Russia

22. Tour Gratis Moscu

23. Tour-Moscow

24. Gulyayem po Moskve

25. Gorodskoi Voyazh

26. Rusiatourmoscu

27. Moscow 360

28. Express to Russia

29. Russia With Love

30. Angel Taxi - Day Tour

What travelers are saying

• Put-in Tours
• Spanish Guide Moscow - Day Tours
• Walks With Folks
• Happy Moscow Tours
• IdeaGuide - Your Personal Guide in Moscow
• Moscow Private Tours
• Tour Gratis Moscu
• Moscow Free Tour
• YourLocalGuide Moscow
• Moscow Bike Tours
• Moscow Navigator
• Moscow through the Eyes of an Engineer
• Angel Taxi - Day Tour
• Your Moscow Guide & Driver
• Excursions in Russia
• Vadim Pavlov Guide and Driver in Moscow

• Trip Planner
• Private Tours
• Small Group Tours
• Two Capitals
• City Breaks
• Trans-Siberian
• River Cruises
• Russia & Beyond

4-star edition of the private 9-day tour of the Russian capitals

5-star edition fo the private 9-day tour of Moscow & St. Petersburg

13-day in-depth discovery of Moscow, Kazan, and St. Petersburg

7-day tour designed to harness the best of the Venice of the North

11-day private discovery of Moscow, St. Petersburg, and the Golden Ring

Your Russia Getaway

Fill out the short trip survey to receive a personalized itinerary from a destination expert.

• Travel guide
• Before you go
• What to see

Russia Trip Planner

Learn about the dos and the don'ts for your amazing trip to Russia

• Our Partners
• Reservation Policies

Rated 9/10 on the Trustpilot review platform

• My itineraries
• Chat with us
• Trip survey

Groups & Agents

• For Suppliers

+1 (888) 744-6056

• North America : +1 (888) 744-6056
• Oceania and Australia : +61261888118

You are here

Amazing tours to russia.

• Related Posts
• Reset filters

Russia Trip Packages

Getting your itinerary right is essential for any destination you decide to travel to. The same goes for trips to Russia. There is a lot to see and do, but how do you decide what goes into your itinerary and what doesn't? We always suggest planning your Russia vacation with a travel expert that has organized multiple trips before. Yes, we're talking about ourselves. We know the ins and outs of this gorgeous destination, and we're ready to help you see the best of Russia. But are you ready, though? If you are considering booking an escorted tour of Russia, chat with us right away, and we will tailor-make an itinerary that suits your travel preferences and our premium travel values.

Top Things To See in Russia

• The Moscow Kremlin & Armoury Chamber (Moscow)
• The State Hermitage Museum (Saint Petersburg)
• St. Basil's Cathedral (Moscow)
• The Grand Palace (Peterhof)
• Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood (Saint Petersburg)
• Peter and Paul Fortress (Saint Petersburg)
• Kul Sharif Mosque (Kazan) 
• Statue "The Heroes of the Battle of Stalingrad" (Volgograd)
• Lake Baikal (Listvyanka Village)
• Lena Pillars (Siberia)

Tips for Russia Travel

• You will need some cash on your trip for tips, souvenirs, and other small expenses. Make sure to exchange rubles before you arrive in Russia
• Are your shoes comfortable enough to walk hours? Bring the most comfortable pair!
• Check the weather forecast before your travels, and pack a water-resistant jacket just in case
• Tipping in Russia is optional, but we always suggest to leave around 10% of your bill total
• Learning a few Russian phrases will come in handy, when trying to communicate with the locals
• Russian Visa process takes time, so plan at least a few months in advance

More About Russia

• Call us now
• Request a call
• Chat on WhatsApp
• Start Live chat
• Contact via email

Moscow & St. Petersburg Small Group Tours Private Tour Packages Trans-Siberian Trips Russian River Cruises Moscow Tour Packages St. Petersburg Tours All Russia Tours

Why Travel to Russia Best Time to Visit Russia Russian Visa Information Tips Before Traveling Tips on Arrival Russian Currency Moscow Travel Guide Read More in Our Blog

Hermitage Museum Church of the Savior on Blood The Kremlin Sergiev Posad, Golden Ring Kizhi Island The Red Square Siberia Lake Baikal

Fla. Seller of Travel Ref. No. ST39939 All Rights Reserved © 2024 About Us | Testimonials  | Our Blog  |  Terms of Service  | Privacy Policy  

We’re on the road right now – join in on the fun and follow @thebrokebackpacker on IG!

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Best Time To Visit Moscow

Where to stay in moscow, moscow itinerary, day 1 itinerary in moscow, day 2 itinerary in moscow, day 3 and beyond, staying safe in moscow, day trips from moscow, faq on moscow itinerary.

Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

10 Best Russia Tour Operators 2024 [Unbiased & With Reviews]

10 best russia tour operators 2024.

Are you planning to visit Russia, but unsure which tour provider to select? Now, you no longer have to waste time searching the internet and filling out dozens of contact forms. Simply fill out ONE form, we’ll send it off to multiple tour providers and they’ll contact YOU! You’ll be able to compare rates and find the lowest cost tour for the most affordable trip abroad.

Have you been thinking about an exciting trip to amazing Russia? Are you interested in enjoying a memorable tour in Russia ? Does the idea of visiting Russia with the top tour company sound great to you?

Russia, the world’s largest country, boasts a diverse landscape with castles, mountains, and frozen lands, complemented by exceptional cuisine. Whether in St Petersburg, Moscow, or Siberia, Russia offers opportunities to explore the Tundra and witness the Northern Lights. Enjoy skiing, visit volcanoes, palaces, and castles, and indulge in a vodka production tour.

Choosing the right tour company is crucial for a memorable trip to Russia. With numerous options available, investing in a top-rated company can save you time and money, ensuring a fun, safe, and regret-free adventure.

We strongly believe that without comprehensive and analytical research, you may end up spending a lot of money and time on a company that does not have your best interest. With our help, you will find well-researched and analyzed information about the top 10 tour companies in Russia to help make a solid and informed decision.

Continue reading to explore the top 10 highly rated tour companies in Russia and their best travel packages.

Table update Jan 19, 2024

Volgograd Sputnik Travel Company

As one of the Russia’s oldest tour operators, Volgograd Sputnik Travel Company has been providing travel-related services since 1991. The key focus of their tour is the city of Volgograd itself. This leading tour operator offers day-tours, excursions and even virtual tours of Volgograd and its surrounding areas. The company is led by a team of dedicated and friendly tour guides that will help you make the most of your visit throughout your stay. They believe in receiving their foreign guests with a positive attitude and thus, invite you on a tour of Volgograd.

Volgograd Sputnik Travel Company Best Russia Tour Packages

This company organizes many different activities for you to be a part of in their tour packages. Honor Soviet war heroes in their historic 3 Day Stalingrad Battlefield Tour . You will visit different sights along the Volga and Don rivers and see places of historical importance in this tour.

Don’t miss out on their sightseeing tour of Hero-City Volgograd . See major sights from the WW II era like the Alley of Heroes, Peace Street, Eternal Flame and many more.

The company also offers a unique tour of Rossoshka where you can observe German and Soviet cemeteries. The central attraction of this tour is a famous sculpture named the “Mourning Mother”.

Volgograd Sputnik Travel Company Reviews

Volgograd Sputnik’s long-standing history is marked by praises and appreciation from the many tourists they have served. This Russian travel company has 326 reviews on TripAdvisor and is ranked as #1 of 17 Tours & Activities in Volgograd. A past customer of theirs wrote:

Went on the big tour of Stalingrad this morning was out for about 5 hours with my man Mikhail. A bit pricey but a good engaging overview chauffeured and one on one… Alexander

Read all reviews of Volgograd Sputnik Travel Company on TripAdvisor .

Explore the diverse landscapes of Hungary by joining one of the 10 Best Hungary Tour Operators , guaranteeing an immersive and enjoyable trip.

Flotilla Radisson Royal

If you are looking for a luxurious cruise experience in Moscow then look no further than Flotilla Radisson Royal ! This top-reviewed Russian travel operator provides excellent tours on the Moscow River where you can enjoy the best views of Moscow. They have a fleet of 10 ice-class yachts that are fully serviced for sightseeing tours as well as large private gatherings. The team at Flotilla Radisson Royal is highly specialized in bringing you the comfort you seek on your trip to Russia.

Flotilla Radisson Royal Best Russia Tour Packages

Flotilla Radisson Royal provides a large array of tour packages on their first-class luxury yachts.

The company offers one of the most unique yacht cruises through the display of theatre! Book their Dinner with a Classic boat tour where you will watch an Italian drama performance. Enjoy the bewitching sights of Moscow city while fine-dining on special Italian dishes.

Their services also extend to themed cruises on their yachts. You can call ahead and book a customizable cruise. They offer sightseeing, romantic, theatrical, literary, family and gastronomic tours in this package.

You can also go on regular yacht cruises according to their yacht schedule. They will take you on a round-trip of Russia’s popular attractions.

Flotilla Radisson Royal Reviews

This tour company in Russia provides an interesting mix of exciting and luxurious boat trips that all customers seem to like. They have 1,127 reviews on TripAdvisor, out of which most are 5-star ratings. They are ranked as #2 of 96 Boat Tours & Water Sports in Moscow. A satisfied customer wrote:

This was a surprise for me by my partner and daughter. Getting onto the boat was very orderly, and our table was gratefully in a good position so Moscow at night could be appreciated… Pete17 Read all reviews of Flotilla Radisson Royal on TripAdvisor

ExploRussia

ExploRussia is a leading Russian tour operator that specializes in creating exceptional tours for global travelers seeking an authentic and local perspective in Russia. The agency is one of the best when it comes to showcasing Russia’s historical landmarks, beautiful landscapes, and contemporary culture. The company was first established in 2012 with the aim of responsible tourism in mind. Comprising a team of passionate and young entrepreneurs, the company is dedicated to bring you a fantastic vacation in Russia with personalized attention and off-the-beaten-track exploration.

ExploRussia Best Russia Tour Packages

The team at ExploRussia goes the extra mile with their tour packages to ensure that you have an unforgettable experience in their country.

You can choose to go on their Moscow Off the Beaten Path Tour where you will experience the local culture of Moscow without being in crowded streets. Explore the Orthodox Church, taste different Russian food and discover the major sights like Kremlin, Red Square and Bolshoi Theatre.

 You can also explore traditional markets with your own local tour guide on their Moscow Food Tour . You will discover enchanting Russian cuisine and taste different kinds of food items that are remnants of the USSR.

For an adventurous journey, travel to the mountains of Altai near Moscow. In this 6 day tour of the Altai Mountains, you will be in close contact with nature while camping and horse-riding around local villages.

ExploRussia Reviews

As the pioneers of responsible tourism in Russia, ExploRussia has set a great example to other local and international tour companies. This Russian tour operator has 595 reviews on TripAdvisor and is ranked at the top as #1 of 1,116 Shopping in Central Russia. A recent customer of theirs wrote:

When I reached out to Olga from ExploRussia , she was already invested in my request , asking the right questions and pointing out the possibilities… Hassan M

Read all reviews of ExploRussia on TripAdvisor .

 Explore the cultural treasures of Turkey by choosing one of the 10 Best Turkey Tour Operators , providing expert guidance.

St. Petersburg Guided Tours

St. Petersburg Guided Tours , founded in 2005, is a locally owned travel company in Russia. The company is founded by Valeria Grigoryeva, a licensed and qualified tour guide. They operate private and customized free tours. Their services include walking adventures, cultural, and historical tours. The guides are highly qualified professionals passionate about Russia’s history with extensive experience in the local and international travel industry. With this company, you will certainly have a memorable time traveling through the Russian countryside.

St. Petersburg Guided Tours Best Russia Tour Packages

For more than 15 years, St. Petersburg Guided Tours has improved and perfected fun, authentic, and luxury Russian tours to select from .

If you are looking to spend quality time with your partner, you can choose their  Romantic Getaway Tour . On this excursion, you will visit the Empress Alexandra residence built in 1829.

You can also join the  2-Day comfort Tour  carefully planned for you to see many city sights of St. Petersburg without waiting or standing in line.

They also have a popular  1-Day Private Tour  that will give you value for your money by taking you for a day tour in St. Petersburg. After visiting famous museums, you will be introduced to traditional foods and vodka tasting.

St. Petersburg Guided Tours Reviews

This local tour operator in Russia has no shortage of great reviews and satisfied clients. They are ranked as #2 of 670 Tours & Activities in St. Petersburg and have 156 reviews on TripAdvisor. A customer that toured with them recently wrote:

Everything was very well organised by Valeria, from helping us with choosing the right accommodation, preparation of visas and including the right places to visit… Dmitri L

Read all reviews of St. Petersburg Guided Tours on TripAdvisor .

Archer Tour

Archer Tour is a local Russian travel agency that provides group and individual tours of major sights in Russia. Their aim is not to give you a lot of tours but to make each tour worthy and memorable. They also offer tailor-made and custom tours that you can plan according to your requirements. As a company, Archer Tour is continuously improving their services and trying to be one of the best tour companies in Russia. Your vacation to Russia will be worthwhile and entertaining with Archer Tour at your side!

Archer Tour Best Russia Tour Packages

From private and corporate escorts to boat trips, paragliding and flights, the range of tour packages that Archer Tour provides is absolutely immense.

Take their Sightseeing Tour of Kaliningrad and discover a unique blend of German and Soviet architecture. You can see museums, churches and military fortifications in this diverse tour package.

Also, their Baltiysk and Yantarny Tour provide historical background into Russia’s important monuments. In this trip, you can take a ferry to Vistula Spit as well as visit an amber factory and see amber production up close!

Archer Tour also provides VIP tours upon customers’ request. You will get the best luxury services, the highest level on comfort and a visit to the top locations and restaurants in their tailor-made VIP tours.

Ahtilahti Best Russia Tour Packages

Ahtilahti’s quality of service regarding their tours and tour packages are unmatched and they’ll ensure that you have the best vacation of your life in Russia.

Plan ahead and go on a Kayaking Tour of the Oredezh River . This trip is perfect for beginner rafters since there are no challenging rapids. You will get to enjoy the tranquil nature while having an exciting experience.

For a winter tour, you can opt for their phenomenal Skating Tour on Lake Baikal . As the oldest lake on Earth, Lake Baikal has a special wonder to it. Your guide will accompany you as you skate, have fun and enjoy the Siberian landscape in this amazing journey.

Explore their hometown of Kaliningrad on a road-trip . In this 7 day tour, Ahtilahti will take you a thrilling journey that covers all of Kaliningrad’s major as well as non-trivial attractions for a truly immersive experience.

Ahtilahti Reviews

Considered one of the most unique travel agencies in Russia, few companies can accomplish what Ahtilahti has accomplished through their tours. They have 171 reviews on TripAdvisor and are ranked as #2 of 157 Boat Tours & Water Sports in St. Petersburg. This is what a satisfied customer said about them:

Excellent experience with SUPsurfing starting from narrow channel in SpB center and going to Neva river. Surfing is safe, supervised by both guiedes Asja and Dmitry… Dr D

Read all reviews of Ahtilahti on TripAdvisor .

As a fully licensed tour company in Russia, Alla Tours proudly offers the best tour and travel services in Russia. Established in 2005, the company is renowned for its top-notch tour guides and detailed itineraries. Their top priority is offering fulfilling, safe, and authentic tours for travelers worldwide. Based in St. Petersburg, Alla Tours has also developed tour excursions across Europe and the Baltic region. With personalized service in mind, Alla Tours will take you on a trip across Russia that will be imprinted in your memory for a lifetime!

Alla Tours Best Russia Tour Packages

With years of service in the tourism industry, Alla Tours offers an extensive array of tour packages in Russia to choose from. You can join their  1-day St. Petersburg Intro Tour  and visit many spectacular venues, including the Peterhof Fountains and Garden and the Hermitage Museum. On this guided private walking tour of St. Petersburg, Russia, you will be able to see the city through the eyes of the locals.

If you have more time, you can take the  2-day St. Petersburg Royal Tour  and combine top-ranked sights with a shore excursion. The tour is perfect for discovering Russia’s modern art, architecture, canals, and rivers.

Comfort is an essential factor during a vacation trip so the  2-Day St. Petersburg Comfort Tour  combines top attractions, including the Church of the Spilled Blood, Hermitage Museum, and Peterhof Fountain Park.

Alla Tours Reviews

Alla Tours is a Russian tour operator that is well-respected by international as well as local tour companies. Their 4,798 reviews on TripAdvisor are a evidence to their top-notch service. They are ranked as #8 of 670 Tours & Activities in St. Petersburg. A past client of theirs wrote:

A full 2 day tour picked up from our cruise ship. Gives a great taste of all the major attractions. Not cheap but fully worth the cost. Cannot recommend highly enough… Mark_Dornoch

Read all reviews of Alla Tours on TripAdvisor .

Embark on a Scandinavian getaway in Finland. Join one of the 10 Best Finland Tour Operators , guaranteeing a memorable and relaxing vacation.

Moscow Private Tours

Moscow Private Tours , founded in 2011, is one of the highest-reviewed tour companies in Russia. They cater exclusively to private and small groups ensuring the best quality service. They are the #1 Rated Private Tours in Moscow. They have their tourists’ best interests in mind and their tours are personalized, child-friendly and have flexible timings. Their tour guides are highly trained locals that will look after you on your trip. Your trip to Russia will be made easier and hassle-free through this company’s continuous efforts.

Moscow Private Tours Best Russia Tour Packages

Catering to small and private groups, Moscow Private Tours’ various tour packages are enjoyable and all-inclusive.

Enjoy the complete Kremlin experience on their Kremlin and Armoury Tour . Visit the State Kremlin Palace, see the Tsar Cannon and Tsar Bell and immerse yourself into medieval history and architecture, Soviet heritage and imperial treasures in this popular tour package.

Moscow looks the prettiest during the night. Go on their Night Moscow Tour with a private guide and see its major attractions like the Bolshoi Theatre and St Basil’s Cathedral.

Embrace the cultural swirl of Russian cuisine through their Russian Food Tour . From borscht to pancakes, eat your way through 3 different eateries and learn about traditional Russian food and their origins.

Moscow Private Tours Reviews

As one of the best-rated tour operators in Russia, Moscow Private Tours has a spectacular track record of many satisfactory clients. They are ranked as #9 of 540 Tours & Activities in all of Moscow and have over 1300 reviews on TripAdvisor. A customer who visited them recently wrote:

Very nice boat tour around Moscow with good dinner and excellent tour guide (Maria). Thanks for your service. I recommend it… Seradi155

Read all reviews of Moscow Private Tours on TripAdvisor .

Discover the natural wonders of the Czech Republic by joining one of the 10 Best Czech Republic Tour Operators , promising an unforgettable and eco-friendly adventure.

Bridge to Moscow

With more than 10 years of experience in the tourism industry, Bridge to Moscow is a highly-rated tour operator in Russia. They offer original and professional private tours in Moscow. They apply a personal approach to their customers, viewing them as friends rather than tourists. The company values commitment, safety and reliability above all else. Bridge to Moscow stands out from the rest through their team of licensed multi-lingual tour guides that dedicate all their efforts to bring you an excellent vacation in Russia.

Bridge to Moscow Best Russia Tour Packages

With over 97 detailed travel itineraries, you will have a large selection of tour packages to choose from.

If you are planning a trip to visit Russian churches, you can start with their Sergiev Posad Tour . This early 14 th century monastery holds intricate architecture and soulful history. See their iconic cathedrals, watch the church choir and visit local bakeries in this tour.

For a sightseeing tour of Moscow, you can book their Moscow in 1 Day tour package. You will be able to visit Moscow’s historic center, the Red Square and the presidential and state palaces. Don’t forget to check out their Moscow Metro as well.

Also, you can choose Glimpses of Baikal tour for a nature-infused experience. This 3 day tour will have you travelling through local villages to reach Lake Baikal. Once there, you can admire the breathtaking views of the oldest lake on the planet and its surrounding areas.

Bridge to Moscow Reviews

Bridge to Moscow’s tours has gathered a lot of positive reviews from many tourists that deemed them to be satisfactory. This Russian travel agency has 454 reviews on TripAdvisor and stands as #10 of 540 Tours & Activities in Moscow. A client that recently toured with them wrote:

The metro tour was very very interesting. My son loved it. And our guide Ivan was so friendly and knowledgeable… chandrasekar r

Read all reviews of Bridge to Moscow on TripAdvisor .

White Nights Travel

White Nights Travel is a unique company that offers a wide range of professionally customized private tours in St. Petersburg. The company’s bespoke services make them a popular tour company in Russia that provides programs suitable for seniors, families, and groups with the chance to explore beautiful locations in St. Petersburg. The company caters to tourists from all walks of life and is happy to work within your budget. White Night Travel’s major goal is to give you a different yet authentic Russian experience of a lifetime.

White Nights Travel Best Russia Tour Packages

There are plenty of options you can choose from with White Nights Travel’s tour packages.

The  Walking Tour with Hermitage  is one of the most popular programs the company offers in St. Petersburg. During the trip, you will discover various art galleries, museums, and parks, and in the evening, you will walk to the city center for vodka tasting and street food.

Do not miss out on the world-class five-hour Russia  Golden Tour  that will provide an opportunity to walk to Catherine Palace, Amber Room, and Church of the Spilled Blood.

The  Jewish Heritage Tour  combines a boat ride tour and the Grans Choral Synagogue tour, which offers you a fantastic opportunity to learn Jewish history in Russia with an English-speaking guide.

White Nights Travel Reviews

Their personalized service and attention to detail has led White Nights Travel to become one of the best tour operators in Russia. With over 650 reviews on TripAdvisor, the company is ranked #10 of 670 Tours & Activities in St. Petersburg. A past customer wrote:

Maria was absolutely fabulous showing our group of 8 the beautiful sights of St. Petersburg. She was so good at moving us thru crowds, her English is spectacular… Debra D

Read all reviews of White Nights Travel on TripAdvisor .

Dive into the rich history and culture of Greece. Join one of the 10 Best Greece Tour Operators , ensuring an immersive and authentic experience.

The best time to visit Russia is during the months of May to September. Although Russia is the largest country and weather can vary vastly, the popular cities and locations in Russia will be experiencing a warm weather and long, sunny days during this time.

You can expect to spend around $60 – $80 for a solo traveler staying at a decently rated hotel. This price will cover food, transportation and other fees. For a more luxurious vacation, you will be spending anywhere from $150 – $250.

Russia has a lot of specialties attached to it. From ballet and theatre to vodka and Russian culture, there is a lot to expect. Famous landmarks include Lake Baikal, The Red Square, The Hermitage and Moscow Metro System.

Being the largest country on the planet, there is definitely a lot of area to cover in Russia. However, most of Russia is barren and uninhabitable. For popular tourist destinations, 2 weeks should be enough for a majestic experience of Russian culture, nature and food.

The most iconic Russian dishes include the Blini (Russian pancakes), Pelmeni, Beef Stroganoff, Syrniki, Kasha (porridge), Borscht and Okroshka. Russia is also famous for their world-renowned vodka.

Please read our updated Privacy Notice and Terms of Use , effective on December 19, 2019.

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

Everything We’ve Written About That’s Currently on Sale at Sephora

Skin-care, makeup, hair-care, and more.

We’ve done a lot of deep diving into skin care, makeup, and hair care, and many of our top picks in these categories can be found at Sephora — occasionally even on sale. To help you find the best deals at the retailer, we’ve rounded up everything we’ve written about that’s currently on sale. This includes the very best moisturizers (both tinted and sheer), the body lotion Rachel Antonoff has recommended to us on three separate occasions, and plenty of products to help you get a year-round summer glow. It’s a particularly good moment to stock up or replace your empties: Sephora’s Savings Event is happening right now, so you can find almost everything on sale.

Depending on your Beauty Insider status, you can score up to 20 percent off your entire purchase by using the code YAYSAVE at checkout until April 15. Rouge members get 20 percent off, VIB members earn 15 percent off, and Insider members get 10 percent off. But everyone — Beauty Insider or not — can take 30 percent off Sephora Collection products, which includes the concealer that we’ve called a dupe for Tarte’s Shape Tape . I’ve gone ahead and applied the 20 percent Rouge discount to all of the items here. Also, Dyson’s beloved hair tools are finally included in this insider sale, so I’ve put a few of those on the list. While you’re here, be sure to sign up for our email newsletter to find out about other worthwhile sales.

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

• the strategist
• sale sale sale
• micro sales

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

7 Best RV Insurance Companies of 2024

S ince 2016, Money’s editorial team has been evaluating companies that offer RV insurance. Our research and analysis takes into account customer satisfaction, financial stability, coverage options, availability and more. We strive to provide accurate and informative recommendations customized to our readers’ needs.

Money’s Main Takeaways

• Insuring your RV is essential, whether you plan to live in your RV full-time or use it for occasional trips.
• The type, age and condition of your RV, where you live, and your own personal driving record are all factors that will influence the price of your policy.
• We settled on six companies including Good Sam as the best RV insurance broker, National General as the best for full replacement cost coverage and Auto-Owners Insurance as the best for customer service.

Why Trust Us?

Our editors and writers evaluate RV insurance companies independently, ensuring our content is precise and guided by editorial integrity. Read the full methodology to learn more.

• Reviewed 15+ companies
• More than 1,000 hours of research
• We prioritized coverage, discounts, customer sentiment, the NAIC complaint index and financial stability

Our Top Picks for the Best RV Insurance Companies

• Good Sam – Best RV Insurance Agency
• RVInsurance.com – Runner-Up
• Nationwide – Best for Multiple Discounts
• National General – Best for Full Replacement Cost Coverage
• Progressive – Best for Disappearing Deductibles
• Roamly – Best for Renting Out Your RV
• Auto-Owners Insurance – Best for Customer Service

Best RV Insurance Reviews

• Offers full-timer coverage
• Manage your policy online without having to contact an agent
• Membership gets you discounts on campsites, gear stores, fuel and more
• Not a direct insurer

Why we chose this company: Good Sam Insurance Agency is the best option for those who need help choosing coverage. It connects you with some of the best RV insurance companies and helps you get a comprehensive policy that fits your needs.

Good Sam works with well-known insurance companies like Progressive, Foremost, Safeco and National General. Some standard insurance options you can get through Good Sam include comprehensive, collision, liability, property damage and personal injury protection.

Good Sam is also an excellent option for people who drive their RV across the border to Mexico. The company partners with MexicoInsuranceOnline.com, which can pair you with one of three Mexico-based insurers. Agents can recommend add-ons for your cross-border travels based on your specific needs, and you can purchase policies for a single-day trip or longer.

The company also offers a storage discount, which lets you pause collision and liability coverage when your motorhome or trailer is stored for more than 30 consecutive days. This can help you save on monthly insurance premiums if you only use your RV for occasional road trips.

Lastly, the agency can help you customize a full-time RV insurance policy if you use it as a permanent residence.

Learn more: Good Sam RV insurance review

See rates on Good Sam’s Secure Website >>

Why we chose this company: RVInsurance.com can help you find a suitable policy, whether you use your RV for vacationing or as your residence.

• Specialists can help you find a policy
• Policies available for all types of RVs

RVInsurance.com works with Foremost, National General and Safeco. These companies cover all RV types, from motorhomes to campers. They offer several policy add-ons, such as full replacement cost, full-timers liability coverage and roadside assistance.

You can get an insurance quote online, but an insurance specialist can help you compare policies if you call.

See rates on RVInsurance.com’s Secure Website >>

• Free yearly insurance review to evaluate your coverage options and possible discounts
• Optional towing coverage includes lodging, transportation and meals
• Multiple policies available, making it easy to bundle and save
• Many customer complaints about the claims process

Why we chose this company: Nationwide Insurance offers over 10 different discounts, including discounts for staying claim-free during the previous policy period or installing safety devices, like smoke detectors.

Most RV insurers offer discounts that can help you save on premiums. Nationwide’s discount list, however, is particularly extensive. You can save money if you bundle your RV policy with your existing home insurance, take safety courses, belong to an RV organization (such as the National RV Association), pay your annual policy upfront or purchase the company’s full-time RV insurance package.

Note that not all discounts are listed on Nationwide’s website, and some only come up during the quoting process. For example, according to a customer service representative, the company also offers discounts to customers whose vehicles have safety features such as tire-pressure monitoring systems or fiberglass bodies.

Learn more: Nationwide RV insurance review

See rates on Nationwide’s Secure Website >>

• Coverage for specialized equipment such as solar panels
• Pause your coverage when your RV is in storage
• Experts help you find a new RV in the event of total loss
• Low mileage discount
• Eligibility, benefits, coverage and discounts vary per state
• Limited information about policies on its website

Why we chose this company: Full replacement cost coverage can usually only be bought during an RV’s first model year. National General, on the other hand, lets you get the rider within an RV’s first five model years.

With full replacement cost coverage, also known as total loss replacement, your RV gets replaced with a new or similar one if it’s totaled or stolen. You may also get reimbursed for the original purchase price of the vehicle.

This type of coverage is typically only available for newly purchased motorhomes or travel trailers up to one or two model years old. For example, a 2024 model would probably be eligible until 2026. So if you buy a used RV or don’t insure your new one as soon as possible, you risk your vehicle being considered ineligible.

With National General, on the other hand, RVs are eligible during their first five model years. The company can also insure your RV whether you’re the first owner or not — some companies limit this type of coverage to original owners.

The company lets you pause your coverage when your RV is in storage, an option that’s not available with many other providers. You can save money by suspending collision and personal injury riders, for example. However, your RV would still be covered against theft, fires, harsh weather and other non-collision accidents.

Learn more: National General RV insurance review

See rates on National General’s Secure Website >>

• Accident forgiveness for claims under $500
• Horse trailer coverage up to $50k
• Pet injury coverage available
• Add-on coverage available for roof malfunction
• Standard plan doesn't cover personal property replacement or emergency expenses
• Insurance rates can vary if you buy online or through an agent
• Discounts are not available in all states

Why we chose this company: Progressive offers disappearing deductibles, accident forgiveness and an extensive array of discounts.

With Progressive, you can save on premiums if you’re the RV’s original owner or if you pay your policy in advance, among other discounts. However, what makes Progressive’s discount list stand out are disappearing deductibles and accident forgiveness.

Not many companies provide these discounts, and if they do, they only offer one or the other. With disappearing deductibles, the longer you go without filing a claim, the lower your insurance deductibles get.

Progressive deducts 25% from your total deductible amount for every claim-free policy period. After four consecutive claim-free periods, your deductible will be $0. Other insurance companies that offer disappearing deductibles cap the discount to a maximum of $500 — if your deductible exceeds $500, you’d still have to pay the remaining amount.

Disappearing deductibles, also known as vanishing deductibles, have an additional cost.

However, the feature is included if your vehicle is valued at $25,000 or more and you purchase the comprehensive and collision coverage package. Both riders are recommended since they ensure the vehicle is covered for car accidents and non-collision events, like a fire.

Accident forgiveness — which keeps your premium rates from increasing if claims are for $500 or less — is included at no additional cost.

See rates on Progressive’s Secure Website >>

• Specializes in RV insurance
• Coverage even when renting out your RV
• Policies for full-time RVers are available
• Covers Canada rentals
• Only offers RV policies

Why we chose this company: Insurers typically decline coverage if you rent your RV to someone else. With Roamly, you can rent out your RV and still be covered for liability and damage to the vehicle.

Rented RVs require comprehensive commercial insurance because they’re exposed to more risk than personal vehicles. Renting out your motorhome or camper without insuring it can result in denied claims, especially if the renter doesn’t have coverage either.

With Roamly, your RV is always covered when listed in rental platforms like Outdoorsy (which owns Roamly). When someone books your RV through Outdoorsy, they can purchase a renters protection package. These policies can include trip protection, interior damage and travel medical insurance.

Roamly covers rented RVs for actual cash value during a rental period. Also, policies include $1 million in liability insurance protection during each trip.

Learn more: Roamly RV insurance review

See rates on Roamly’s Secure Website >>

• Premium reduction if RV is equipped with certain safety features
• Towing and roadside assistance in all 50 states and Canada
• Mobile app for Apple and Android
• No online quotes

Why we chose this company: Auto-Owners is our pick for personalized customer service because of its network of independent agents, online customer center and mobile app. Customers can access claims, billing and other important policy documents on their phone, tablet or computer.

Auto-Owners has an impressive customer service record, with fewer complaints on record with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) than most competitors. It also ranked above average in the southeast region in J.D. Power’s 2022 Auto Insurance Customer Satisfaction study.

Unlike other companies, Auto-Owners only sells its insurance products through independent agents. Instead of contacting the company online, you work directly with local agencies which can better advise you regarding specific insurance requirements in your area. For example, bodily injury and property damage liability limits set by law vary by state.

Learn more: Auto-Owners RV insurance review

See rates on Auto-Owners’s Secure Website >>

Other RV Insurance companies we considered

During our research for the best recreational vehicle insurance providers, we narrowed down our initial list to 7 companies. The following didn’t make our final cut, not because they were lacking, but because other competitors had more standout features.

• Covers motorhomes, travel trailers and campers
• Membership plan includes roadside assistance, hotel discounts and more
• Extra coverage for lodging and transportation if your RV is damaged
• Coverage options are not standard across regions (southwest, northeast, etc.)
• RV policy not available nationwide
• Limited information available online

AAA offers coverage for different types of RVs and some of its policies also cover personal effects such as electronics. However, it didn’t make our list because their coverage is not available in all 50 states.

See rates on AAA’s Secure Website >>

• Discount if you transfer from another insurance company
• Discounts for drivers 55 years or older
• Gas price locator to help you find the cheapest gas
• Limited information on company website
• Online quotes not available

Allstate’s policies include emergency travel expenses if you’re over 50 miles from home when your RV breaks down and the issue is covered under the policy. Allstate is not on our main list because it only provides quotes through its sales agents and the information on its website is limited.

See rates on Allstate’s Secure Website >>

• Windshield deductible is only $50 for total replacements
• Personal effects replacement limits up to $100,000
• Free accident forgiveness for those who have been accident-free for 5+ years
• Limited information available on the company's website
• Enhanced RV coverage is not available in HI, MA, MI and NC
• Availability of total loss replacement coverage varies by state and vehicle value

While Geico offers coverage options comparable to those of other companies on our list (such as total loss replacement, emergency expenses coverage and vacation liability), its policies aren’t available nationwide. Its website also lacks crucial details, such as available discounts.

See rates on Geico’s Secure Website >>

• Loan or lease protection coverage available
• Deductibles diminish $100 per year up to $500
• Insures motorhomes valued at up to $1 million
• Coverage available for custom equipment
• Only covers vehicles used 250 days or less per year
• Limited information available on website
• No online quotes available

Safeco offers coverage for class A, B, and C motorhomes valued at up to $1 million, but it only insures these vehicles if you use them recreationally. Safeco didn’t make our list because its website doesn’t offer a lot of information and coverage is limited to vehicles used less than 250 days a year.

See rates on Safeco’s Secure Website >>

• Coverage for emergency expenses if camper is damaged or destroyed
• Pays for transportation of damaged RV to storage, repair shop or home
• Full-timer coverage for travel trailers, motor homes, luxury motorcoaches and more
• Special policies for USAA members
• Not available in DC or Hawaii
• Limited information on website

Foremost, a subsidiary of Farmers Insurance, has policies for full-timers as well as stationary travel trailers. It also covers personal-use motor homes that you occasionally rent, lease or loan. Unfortunately, this policy doesn’t cover the vehicle while it’s rented, leased or loaned.

See rates on Foremost’s Secure Website >>

• Part-time users can opt for storage-only insurance during the off-season
• Policy extends to travel anywhere in Canada
• Insures equipment permanently attached to your RV
• No information regarding discounts

Despite offering coverage in Canada, Farmers Insurance fell short of our list due to limited information on their website regarding specific coverages and discounts. This lack of transparency makes it challenging for consumers to assess the scope and value of its policies.

See rates on Farmers’ Secure Website >>

• Discounts for safe driving and original ownership
• Multi-vehicle discount
• Coverage for all RV classes, including slide-on campers
• Members get a 5% discount on policies
• Policies only available to military families
• 5% members-only discount not available in all states

USAA offers RV insurance through an alliance with Progressive, which covers almost all types of RVs. The drawback to USAA’s policies is that they’re only available to military families.

See rates on USAA’s Secure Website >>

Country Financial

• Multi-policy discount
• Mobile app for Apple and Android devices
• Only available through agents
• Operates in only 19 states

Country Financial’s RV insurance policies fall under home or auto insurance. That can be a drawback for consumers who already have a preferred auto or home insurer. Another notable snag in its coverage is that it’s available in only 19 states.

See rates on Country Financial’s Secure Website >>

National Interstate

• Options for RV full-timers
• 25% deductible discount for each consecutive claim-free year
• Windshield replacement coverage
• Coverage for commercial RVs
• Website lacks information about terms and discounts

National Interstate has policy options for RV full-timers and covers commercial RVs. This insurer is not featured on our main list because its website doesn’t provide details regarding policies or discounts.

See rates on National Interstate’s Secure Website >>

The Hartford

• Lifetime guarantee for repairs done in authorized repair shops
• 24/7 claims submission
• RV replacement if it's totaled in the first 15 months
• Only available to AARP members
• Not available in U.S. territories

The Hartford allows policyholders to customize their RV insurance coverage, and its lifetime guarantee for repairs in authorized shops is a highlight of its policies. However, coverage is only available to AARP members, which is a considerable drawback.

See rates on The Hartford’s Secure Website >>

RV Insurance Guide

Like auto insurance, an RV insurance policy provides financial protection in the event of accidents, injuries and other unfortunate scenarios. This means it can reimburse you for repairs, medical bills and liability expenses in the event you injure someone or damage their property.

Most RV insurance providers offer comprehensive policies covering everything from collisions, theft and loss of personal belongings to medical expenses and more. However, not everyone needs an all-inclusive policy, especially those who use their RVs occasionally.

Read on to find out how much RV insurance costs, learn about the different coverage options available and get tips on choosing the right coverage for your needs while saving on premiums.

Table of contents

How much is rv insurance, types of rvs, what type of insurance does an rv need, what does rv insurance not cover.

• How to buy RV insurance

Renting out your RV

According to Progressive, an RV insurance policy for a travel trailer (an RV that you tow behind your own vehicle) costs an average of $573 per year, while coverage for a motorhome costs an average of $958 per year.

The cost of an RV insurance policy is influenced by the following factors:

• The type of RV: Motorhomes are more expensive to insure than trailers (especially motorhomes with state-of-the-art components).
• Age and condition: Older trailers and motorhomes cost less to insure than their modern counterparts due to their reduced resale value.
• Type of RV insurance: A policy with just liability coverage is more affordable than a comprehensive policy that includes collision and personal property coverage.
• Where you live: As with most other types of insurance, your state and zip code affect your insurance rates. RVs in areas prone to extreme weather will be more expensive to insure.
• Driving experience and driving record: A first-time RV owner poses a higher risk than someone who’s been living the van life for years. Insurers will also look at your general driving record to determine an appropriate rate.
• Claims history: Just as with auto insurance, a lengthy claims history is a red flag to insurers. A driver who has never filed an insurance claim will get a much better rate than one who has cashed in on their policy in the past.
• Additional coverage: Purchasing add-ons that augment your standard coverage can substantially increase your premium. Additional coverage options may include roadside assistance, total loss replacement, vacation liability and full-timers coverage.

Recreational vehicles, more commonly known as RVs, can be classified into one of four categories: Class A, Class B, Class C and towable RVs. The first three are motorhomes, which means they’re drivable units equipped with living quarters and appliances. Towable RVs, also called campers or trailers, can have home amenities too. However, some are designed to transport animals or cargo.

Here’s the rundown of the different types of RVs available:

Class A motorhomes

Class A motorhomes are the most luxurious and spacious. They are similar to commercial buses, measuring anywhere between 24 to 45 feet in length and fitting as many as 12 passengers. However, their size can make them difficult to drive and limits their mileage to around 10 miles per gallon or less.

Class B motorhomes

Class B motorhomes, also known as “camper vans,” are the smallest and least expensive type, with a length of 17 to 19 feet. These are standard-sized vans usually packed with a compact kitchen, bathroom and foldable or fixed bed. Their limited living space makes them suitable for four passengers or less who enjoy minimalist traveling.

Class B+ or B Plus motorhomes

Class B+ or B Plus motorhomes are the big siblings of Class B camper vans. These vehicles measure between 17 and 30 feet, fitting bigger beds and more spacious bathroom and kitchen areas.

Class C motorhomes

Class C motorhomes are the middle ground between Class A and B RVs. They measure between 21 to 41 feet in length and are easily recognized by their over-cab sleeping or storage area.

Although smaller than Class A RVs, Class Cs are suitable for full-time occupancy, delivering better gas mileage and easier maneuverability. These vehicles can fit up to eight passengers and include a fully equipped kitchen and spacious dining, bathroom and living room areas.

Towable RVs

Towable RVs are pulled by hitches on SUVs, pickup trucks or any vehicle that can tow the RVs weight. Towable RVs that feature living quarters include fifth wheels, toy haulers, travel trailers and pop-up campers. These range from under 10 feet for pop-ups to 30 feet for fifth-wheel trailers.

Truck campers are also considered towable RVs, but you don’t pull them with a hitch. Instead, they sit on the bed of a pickup truck. Other types of towable RVs include utility, cargo and horse trailers.

Since RVs can be both a vehicle and a primary residence, there are special considerations when insuring them. Some policies only offer basic liability protection while others offer broader coverage for things like personal effects and emergency expenses.

Keep in mind that if your RV is self-propelled, your coverage should meet your state’s minimum liability insurance requirements. This applies whether you use the vehicle occasionally or as a residence.

If your RV is towable, the insurance policy on the vehicle used to tow it may extend to the RV. However, note that the towing vehicle’s policy usually only covers liability and not physical damage to the RV or attached accessories.

Best RV insurance features for part-time RVers

People who use their motorhomes for weekend getaways should at least have basic liability coverage that meets their state’s minimum requirements.

Other types of RV insurance for part-time RVers include:

• Property-damage liability coverage: Pays for damages that you cause to another person’s property or vehicle.
• Bodily injury liability coverage: Helps pay the medical expenses of those you injure in an at-fault accident.
• Collision coverage: Covers repairs to your RV after an accident with another vehicle, whether you’re at fault or not.
• Comprehensive coverage: Pays for damages caused by theft, vandalism, natural disasters, fire and other non-collision accidents.
• Uninsured/Underinsured motorist coverage: Covers the cost of repairs to your RV and your medical payments if you’re in an accident caused by a driver that doesn’t have insurance or has insufficient coverage to pay your claim.
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Covers medical expenses for both you and your passenger in the event of an accident, no matter who was at fault. It may also cover lost wages.
• Campsite/vacation liability coverage: Helps pay for legal expenses if you’re found at fault for injuries or losses suffered by a non-family member while in your campsite area or inside your RV.
• Roadside Assistance: Offers around-the-clock repairs, towing and emergency assistance should your RV experience a flat tire, battery discharge or other malfunction.

Best RV insurance features for full-time RVers

For added peace of mind, full-time RVers should consider having a more comprehensive policy that includes some of the above-mentioned add-ons as well as any of the following:

• Personal property coverage: Covers the cost of replacing any damaged or stolen personal effects. This includes clothing, furniture, jewelry and computers, for example.
• Total loss replacement: Replaces your RV with an equal or similar model if your vehicle is ever stolen or totaled in an accident. In other cases, the insurer may reimburse you for the original purchase price. Note that lenders may require this coverage if you finance your RV.
• Full-time RV liability coverage: Adds additional coverage for liability and medical expenses if you live in your RV for six months or more each year.
• Emergency expense allowance: Covers up to a specified amount of living and travel expenses like car rentals, lodging and food if your RV leaves you stranded, usually more than 100 miles away.
• Specialized coverage: Can replace appliances like awnings, satellite dishes, and solar panels and can even provide coverage for any pet injuries that happen in the vehicle.
• Loss assessment: Helps cover fees charged by RV associations for damage to common areas in a campsite, for example.

RV insurance won’t cover the following:

• Normal wear and tear: RV insurance protects your vehicle against unexpected events, not routine maintenance or deterioration.
• Mold damage, fungi or rot: Insurers consider mold a sign of neglect and won’t cover damages unless it’s directly linked to water damage caused by a covered event.
• Certain types of water damage: RV insurance doesn’t cover water damage that’s caused by regular wear and tear, freezing temperatures or manufacturer defects.

Comprehensive RV insurance covers most natural disasters, including flash floods, storm surges and fire. Earthquake coverage varies by insurer — it may be covered under a comprehensive RV policy or you may need to purchase earthquake coverage separately.

How to Buy RV Insurance

Here are some tips on how to find and purchase the right RV insurance coverage for you.

Take time to shop around for insurance quotes

The cost of RV insurance will depend on your driving history, where you live, the type of vehicle you own and whether you intend to live in the RV full-time or use it for vacations. Adding optional riders like pet and accessories coverage will hike up your premium.

Requesting multiple RV insurance quotes can work out to your advantage. Those who compare estimates and coverage options before choosing often find the best rates.

If you don’t have the time to shop around, you can consult an independent insurance agent. They can help you choose the right coverage and guide you to companies with attractive rates and policy features that meet your needs.

Consider bundling multiple policies

Most insurance providers offer a multi-policy discount when you combine your RV insurance with other qualified policies.

You can save on premiums by combining your RV policy with your current auto, home or boat insurance . Some insurers also let you bundle your policy with renters or life insurance policies . Bundling multiple policies under one provider can also help you avoid the hassle of dealing with different companies come time to file a claim.

If you don’t want to pay two premiums, you can consider adding your RV to your existing auto insurance policy . Just know that the insurance you have on your car usually only extends to towable campers or trailers, not motorhomes. Also, keep in mind that car insurance may cover you against liability and damages to the RV, but not belongings or appliances inside the vehicle.

Homeowners insurance may also offer some coverage for RVs, but only when the vehicle is parked on the insured property’s premises.

Another option is getting umbrella insurance to cover your RV. This type of policy covers liability claims that exceed the limits of your primary auto, home or RV policy. However, this coverage only kicks in if your RV is covered by an underlying policy that meets the liability requirements of the umbrella policy.

Check for available discounts

While these may vary by company, most insurers offer rate discounts for:

• Paying the total annual policy upfront
• Making monthly payments on time
• Staying claim-free during the previous policy period
• Being the vehicle’s original owner
• Installing safety features in your RV (a tire pressure monitoring system, for example)
• Having a favorable loss history (the record of insurance losses associated with the vehicle)
• Being a safe driver (staying accident-free for at least three years)
• Taking safety courses
• Being a member of an RV association

Drivers aged 50 and up can snag a lower rate, as can parents or guardians who opt not to insure drivers under 25 on their policy.

Insurance when renting an RV

If you plan on renting an RV for a vacation, you should consider getting RV rental insurance. This type of policy is similar to car rental insurance since both usually provide liability, collision damage waiver, personal accident or personal effects coverage.

Policies can be purchased through the rental company or your own insurance provider — if it offers such coverage. However, keep in mind that your current car or RV insurance policy may already extend some coverage to the rented RV. Coverage may not be available in all states or for trips longer than 30 days, so you should call your insurer to verify before heading out.

Some insurance companies also offer RV coverage for trips to Mexico. While this type of policy can be useful for someone planning a vacation, it is more commonly recommended for RV owners who frequently cross the border.

If you rent your RV to others, it’s considered a commercial-use vehicle, and your insurance policy won’t cover the renter. The person must obtain their own rental insurance for the trip. If you’re merely lending your RV to a friend or family member, your existing coverage may extend to them, depending on the details of your policy.

However, note that some states — including Arkansas and Wisconsin — require drivers to get special licenses to drive RVs. If you live in one of these states and you lend your RV to someone, that person must have the required license if you want your insurance policy to cover them.

What kind of insurance do I need to rent out my RV?

To rent out an RV, you’ll need at least liability coverage, which pays for damages or injury you may cause to other people and their property in an at-fault accident.

With the exception of New Hampshire, all states and the District of Columbia, require that vehicles, including RVs, have some form of liability coverage.

Insurance for towable RVs is another matter. When you’re towing your RV behind another vehicle instead of driving it, you only have to worry about having enough coverage to protect your belongings, not about additional liability insurance.

RV Insurance FAQs

What states require trailer insurance.

Trailer insurance requirements vary by state and by type of trailer. Most local governments require liability insurance, while others also require uninsured motorist coverage.

There are currently only two states that don't require any type of trailer insurance. You can drive an uninsured vehicle in Virginia as long as you pay an uninsured motorist fee. In New Hampshire, you can drive uninsured if you prove you have enough money to cover liability expenses in an at-fault accident.

Do you need trailer insurance?

You don't need insurance for a non-motorized trailer that's hooked up to a towing vehicle. The vehicle's insurance coverage extends to the trailer attached to it. However, this coverage is typically limited to liability.

Talk to your auto insurance provider if you want to add property damage coverage for the trailer or purchase a separate RV insurance so that the trailer itself is insured against damage.

Who has the best RV insurance?

Does rv insurance cover water damage, what is vacation liability rv insurance, how we chose the best rv insurance.

• Coverage options and discounts. We picked companies that offer a comprehensive selection of coverage options and premium discounts.
• Customer satisfaction. We favored companies that had above-average scores in J.D. Power’s U.S. Auto Insurance Study. We also considered customer feedback from review sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
• Financial strength. We considered the financial strength of each insurer as evidenced by their A.M. Best rating. A.M Best is a credit rating agency that assesses the creditworthiness of insurance companies.
• Complaint index. We looked up every insurer’s complaint trend report from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) and favored those with few complaints.

Summary of Money’s Best RV Insurance of 2024

© Copyright 2024 Money Group, LLC . All Rights Reserved.

This article originally appeared on Money.com and may contain affiliate links for which Money receives compensation. Opinions expressed in this article are the author's alone, not those of a third-party entity, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed. Offers may be subject to change without notice. For more information, read Money’s full disclaimer .

• Twitter / X
• Readers' Choice
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Travel Guides

USA TODAY 10Best

Western wonders: 10 best small towns in the West

Best Small Town in the West (2024) April 10, 2024

— Our editors and readers independently select what you see on 10Best. When you buy through a link on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The West is home to some of the most charming and scenic small towns in the country, hosting amazing art communities, tons of outdoor adventure opportunities, and top-notch dining options.

These 10 small towns — each with a population of fewer than 25,000 — have been selected by an expert panel and voted by readers as the best in the region for their diverse offerings.

No. 10: Ashland, Oregon

Located in southern Oregon, Ashland attracts thespians and theater lovers from all over with their incomparable Oregon Shakespeare Festival, ongoing since 1935. But if that’s not your thing, North Mountain Park and other nearby green spaces offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy a peaceful time outdoors. Top-notch dining, shopping, and crafts fairs and markets are also a draw.

No. 9: Durango, Colorado

Deep in southwestern Colorado is the mountain town of Durango, a place so gorgeous it's been used as the backdrop for countless films including "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid," "City Slickers," and "National Lampoon's Vacation." Speaking of its natural beauty, you can enjoy the great outdoors in all sorts of ways here, from rafting down the Animas River to skiing and snowboarding at any of the nearby ski resorts. Visitors can also explore over a dozen historic sites and even Mesa Verde National Park.

No. 8: Williams, Arizona

Williams is a place for grand adventure and grand escapes, especially given how close it is to the one and only Grand Canyon (which can be accessed via the Grand Canyon Railway, built in 1901). But there's plenty of Americana charm to be found here, too, thanks to the town's connections to the historic Route 66. You'll see plenty of neon signs beckoning visitors to stop in for diner food, milkshakes, and kitschy souvenirs.

No. 7: Bainbridge Island, Washington

A short ferry ride west of Seattle is Bainbridge Island — a harmonious respite from the nearby city life. Try a yoga class at Dayaalu Yoga and Wellness Center or spend some quiet time inside one of the local museums, like the Bainbridge Island Historical Museum, Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, or KiDiMu (if you’ve got young ones along). The Bloedel Reserve is a major attraction for visitors of all ages, where you can explore 140 acres of meadows, forests, and gardens.

No. 6: Gig Harbor, Washington

Located along the South Puget Sound, this charming little town offers plenty of activities for a relaxing time in the Pacific Northwest. Bed-and-breakfasts are aplenty, as are scenic walking areas like the Chalet in the Woods and Crescent Creek Park. A history museum, multiple breweries and distilleries, eateries (fine dining as well as more casual grab-and-go spots), plus boat tours and even gondola rides are all available to enjoy.

No. 5: Manitou Springs, Colorado

Right outside of Colorado Springs is the absolutely charming Manitou Springs, where you can find everything from art galleries and ice cream shops to an old school penny arcade. But the bigger draws? Cave of the Winds Mountain Park, where you can take a tour of the caves and enjoy thrilling adventures, as well as the Manitou Incline, where the fittest of locals and visitors alike attempt to climb up 2,000 vertical feet via 2,744 steps.

No. 4: Cody, Wyoming

Named after Colonel William Frederick Cody (aka Buffalo Bill), this small northwestern Wyoming town is perfect for a Wild West-style getaway. Visitors can go on a wild mustang tour to learn about local wildlife, check out a re-creation of an old frontier town, or enjoy the outdoors at Buffalo Bill State Park. And for the history buffs, there are multiple museums in the area, including the Draper Natural History Museum, the Buffalo Bill Museum, and the Plains Indian Museum.

No. 3: Grants, New Mexico

Just an hour west of Albuquerque, you'll find Grants — a little town that offers proximity to a variety of unique and interesting experiences. After taking an obligatory photo with the Route 66 sign, you'll find plenty of things to do, including exploring the volcanic landscape of El Malpais National Monument and enjoying a drink and a bite to eat at Junkyard on 66 Brewery, a functioning auto salvage yard.

No. 2: Solvang, California

Sometimes you come across a small U.S. town that makes you feel like you've been transported to a totally different country, and Solvang is just that. Chock-full of Danish history and heritage, you'll find Danish-inspired architecture, including some truly charming windmills, Scandinavian eateries like the Red Viking, and even the Elverhøj Museum of History & Art. 

No. 1: Seward, Alaska

Known as the gateway to the majestic Kenai Fjords National Park, this port city offers an array of excursions for folks hoping to see glaciers up close, spot orcas and other wildlife, and be immersed in the culture of the Indigenous peoples of the area. The best part is there are so many ways to do all these things, from going dog sledding to enjoying a tour via kayak, or even visiting the Alaska SeaLife Center to see puffins and sea lions up close.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Chez chesak.

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Jonathon Stalls

Jonathon Stalls (he, his) is a multi-disciplinary...   Read More

Jonathon Stalls (he, his) is a multi-disciplinary "Walking Artist". Some of his creative work involves media/organizing with the Pedestrian Dignity project, hosting walking/rolling events and leader training with Walk2Connect (a program of America Walks), pen drawing, meditative practices, and more. He is the author of  WALK - Slow Down, Wake Up & Connect at 1-3 Miles Per Hour  (North Atlantic Books, Aug 2022). In 2010, he walked for 242 days across the U.S., walked el Camino de Santiago in 2012, and has continued to move, write, and create alongside a wide variety of longer-distance routes. Learn more:  www.IntrinsicPaths.com

Kirstie and Christine of On Airplane Mode Travels

Kirstie Pike and Christine Diaz are award-winning...   Read More

Kirstie Pike and Christine Diaz are award-winning LGBTQ+ travel creators and trailblazers, using their platform, On Airplane Mode, to inspire others to follow their passions while celebrating their unique identities. With the leading LGBTQ+ travel platform in the US, they have a thriving community of over 650,000+ followers. The dynamic duo craft unique storytelling content that resonates with diverse audiences, sparking positive transformation within the travel industry, making it a more inclusive and vibrant space.

Kyle McCarthy

Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of...   Read More

Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of Family Travel Forum, the trusted resource for family vacation planners since 1996. FTF’s award-winning publications: MyFamilyTravels.com , America’s Most Popular Family Vacations and  The Family Vacationist  e-newsletter  provide destination reviews, tips and  seasonal roundups  for all aspects of travel. Ms. McCarthy, author of a dozen Frommer’s guidebooks, also contributes to US News, CNN and other publications. She can be found on most social networks @familytravelforum.

Marla Cimini

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion...   Read More

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion for travel, music, surfing and culinary adventures! An avid globetrotter and guidebook writer, she has covered topics such as the Hawaiian islands (including food trends and luxury beachfront resorts), as well as European getaways and global destinations. Her articles have appeared in many publications worldwide, including USA Today. Marla lives in New Jersey (Philadelphia area) and is a frequent visitor to Hawaii and Southern California, and often covers those destinations. Her travel website is:  www.marlacimini.com  

Meg St-Esprit

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh...   Read More

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh who covers family travel, lifestyle, education, and parenting. With their four kids in tow, she and her husband love to travel anywhere and everywhere — but have a soft spot for camping and outdoor adventures. In fact, her kids are well on their way to achieving their goal of visiting all 124 state parks in Pennsylvania. Meg believes travel doesn’t need to be luxurious or costly to be valuable, and aims to share that with her audience. Meg’s work has appeared in publications such as  The New York Times, Thrillist, The Washington Post, Fodor’s, Yahoo, Good Housekeeping, Romper , and more. Follow Meg on Instagram and Twitter at @megstesprit or check out her work on  https://megstesprit.com/

Melody Pittman

Melody Pittman is the owner and creator of Read More

Melody Pittman is the owner and creator of Wherever I May Roam Blog  and is co-owner of the Southern Travelers Explore annual conference, in its 4th year, which brings CVBS and writers/influencers together from all over the country. She is a digital influencer and writes for both online and print publications, such as Travel Awaits, Charleston Home and Living Magazine, Matador Network, She Buys Travel, and more. Melody has worked with major brands during her nine-year career, such as Viking River Cruises, Ritz Carlton, Four Seasons, Disney, hundreds of tourism boards, and GO RVing.  Melody’s first book “100 Things to Do in West Virginia Before You Die” was released in the spring of 2023. She has a podcast, 100ThingsWV, and social channels to go along with the book. Melody loves road trips, small towns, cruising, and sharing lesser-known destinations with her followers via TikTok , Youtube, IG , and FB . After a year of full-time RV travel, she now resides in Mesquite, Nevada. 

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

Best Gas Station Brand

Best Rental Car Company

Best Gas Station for Food

Best Roadside Attraction

Best Vintage Trailer Hotel

Browse the best.

Best Small College Town (2024)

Best Small Town Cultural Scene (2024)

Best Small Town in the Northeast (2024)

Best Small Town in the Midwest (2024)

Best Small Town Food Scene (2024)

Back to readers' choice.

Snow-capped peaks, scenic grandeur: What to expect at Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is no hidden gem. 

Over 4.1 million people visited the park last year, making it the fifth most visited national park in America, according to National Park Service statistics. 

It’s so busy in the summer that timed entry reservations are required for a good chunk of each day.

Here’s what draws so many people to Rocky Mountain and what travelers should know about the latest national park in USA TODAY’s yearlong series .

What is so special about Rocky Mountain National Park?

If you close your eyes and think of the southern Rockies, “Rocky Mountain National Park captures all of that,” said the park’s Public Affairs Officer Kyle Patterson.

“Snow capped peaks, amazing recreational opportunities for 12 months out of the year, watchable wildlife , and scenic grandeur,” she said that’s what visitors always extol. 

She added that the Continental Divide runs right through the park, and the park is the headwaters for numerous major rivers.

What is the best time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park?

The answer depends on your interests.

“Do you want to see snow and ice, or do you want to see wildflowers and more greenery?” Patterson asked. “Are you interested in hiking? Are you interested in snowshoeing?” The park has more than 350 miles of hiking trails .

The busy season is late May through mid-October when temperatures are milder, all roads are open, and entry reservations are required during certain times of the day. 

“My favorite part about Rocky is just how different it is depending upon what season you visit the park,” Patterson said.

What city is closest to Rocky Mountain National Park? What town should I stay in?

“We have two wonderful communities that are right at the doorstep of Rocky Mountain National Park,” Patterson said. “Estes Park on the east side and Grand Lake on the west side.”

She added that about 80% of visitors enter through Estes Park, which is also closer to Denver and its international airport. However, she said visitors enjoy both gateway communities. 

“Estes Park and Grand Lake both have wonderful amenities from lodging to restaurants to other activities that people can do when they're visiting this area,” she said. 

Can you drive through Rocky Mountain National Park without a reservation?

Yes, but it depends on when you visit.

Timed entry reservations are required to access most of the park between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. from May 24 through Oct. 14. 

However, if you want to access the park’s busy Bear Lake Road, you’ll need a different type of reservation called Timed Entry+. That reservation grants access to all the parks' roads but is specifically required for Bear Lake Road between 5 a.m. and 6 p.m. from May 24 through Oct. 20.

If you enter outside of those hours or dates, you won’t need a reservation, but it’s important to note that the park’s popular Trail Ridge Road , which connects the east and west sides of the park, is closed through the winter.

How long does it take to drive through Rocky Mountain National Park?

“If somebody's coming when Trail Ridge Road is open, we recommend people to give themselves at least three hours to drop over the top of the park,” Patterson said. 

That also allows time to stop and take in views and shorter hikes along the way. 

“You never know what you might see as you drive along the road, and you want to give yourself plenty of time,” she said. “Also, the speeds of travel on the road should be slow … It’s not like you’re driving a highway.”

How much time do I need to see Rocky Mountain National Park?

“Because we're so close to a large population in Colorado we have people that will come up here for two hours,” Patterson said. Locals can visit any time, but she said it would be “a bummer” to only spend a few hours in the park on a first visit. 

She said the average visit is around two days, though you can stay longer to experience more. 

Which Native tribes are tied to Rocky Mountain National Park?

“Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the oldest national parks in the country. Rocky was established in 1915,” Patterson said, but she and the park point out that Native Americans have stewarded the land for thousands of years.

 “What is now Rocky Mountain National Park is part of the traditional homeland and territory of many present-day Tribal nations including, the Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, Montana; Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes, Oklahoma; Comanche Nation, Oklahoma; Eastern Shoshone Tribe of the Wind River Reservation, Wyoming; Kiowa Indian Tribe of Oklahoma, Northern Arapaho Tribe of the Wind River Reservation, Wyoming; Northern Cheyenne Tribe of the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation, Montana; Southern Ute Indian Tribe of the Southern Ute Reservation, Colorado; Ute Indian Tribe of the Uintah & Ouray Reservation, Utah; and Ute Mountain Ute Tribe of the Ute Mountain Reservation, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah,” the park acknowledges on its website.

What else should travelers know about Rocky Mountain?

It can feel like winter into May at the park, and winter can also creep into fall. 

Weather can also change rapidly and differ dramatically, depending on the elevation. The high altitude can also affect travelers who aren’t used to it.

“Just giving yourself some time to acclimate and taking care of yourself, like drinking lots of water, is really crucial because you can get dehydrated here really quickly,” she said. “Being prepared for traveling to a place like Rocky will make all the difference in the world.”

• Mattress Toppers
• Sheets & Bedding
• Sleep Products
• Cleaning & Laundry
• Heating & Cooling
• Home Office
• Kitchen & Dining
• Storage & Organization
• Wine & Bar
• Accessories
• Handbags & Purses
• Lingerie & Sleepwear
• Outdoor & Fitness Apparel
• Kids Clothes & Accessories
• Pregnancy & Postpartum
• Toys & Books
• Apparel & Accessories
• Camping & Hiking
• Fishing & Hunting
• Tennis & Racket Sports
• Tools & Tech
• Training & Recovery
• Water Sports
• Winter Sports
• Personal Products
• Wellness & Self Care
• Computers, Tablets & Accessories
• Online Tools
• Smart Home Devices
• Smartphones, Smartwatches & Accessories
• Hotels & Lodging
• Travel Products
• Father's Day
• Mother's Day
• Valentine's Day
• Amazon Prime Day
• Beauty & Grooming
• Tech & Electronics
• Travel Deals
• Mattress & Sleep

The 11 Best Travel Safety Devices, Tested By A Frequent Solo Traveler

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Even amidst the thrill of adventure, travel exposes you to certain risks, from minor inconveniences like a flight delay to more serious threats, like a stranger breaking into your hotel room. Fortunately, the best travel safety devices, ranging from personal safety alarms to door stoppers and anti-theft bags , are built to keep you out of harm’s way.

The best travel safety devices are built to keep you out of harm’s way, helping you avoid both minor ... [+] inconveniences and serious threats.

Over the last decade, I’ve visited roughly 100 countries—many of them solo. My experiences traveling alone helped me learn the importance of being mindful of one’s safety while on the go. After testing many gadgets and tools all over the world, I’ve narrowed down 15 of the best travel safety devices that all travelers should know about.

Align Your Spine With The Best Pillows For Neck Pain, According To Experts

The best percale sheets for a refreshing, crisp and cool sleep, best travel safety devices, at a glance:.

• Best Personal Safety Alarm: She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm
• Best Door Stopper With Built-In Alarm : AceMining Door Stopper Alarm
• Best Portable Door Lock : AceMining Portable Door Lock
• Best Luggage Tracker : Apple AirTag
• Best RFID-Blocking Travel Wallet : Zoppen Multi-Purpose RFID Blocking Passport Holder Travel Wallet
• Best Anti-Theft Bag: Pacsafe Women's Citysafe Cx Anti Theft Convertible Backpack
• Best TSA-Approved Luggage Lock: Master Lock Combination Luggage Lock
• Best Portable Lock Box : SafeGo Portable Indoor/Outdoor Lock Box
• Best Travel First-Aid Kit: Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series Hiker Medical Kit
• Best Travel Carbon Monoxide Detector: Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector

Best Personal Safety Alarm

Alerts others that you need help.

She's Birdie

She's Birdie Personal Safety Alarm

Weight: 2.08 ounces | Dimensions: 3 x 1.5 x 1 inches | Special features: TSA-friendly, fits on your keychain or luggage

Roughly the size of a key fob, She's Birdie is a discreet yet powerful wearable panic button that offers peace of mind whether you're out for a run or strolling through a new city. Pulling the pin activates a piercing alarm and flashing strobe, instantly alerting those nearby. Reinsert the pin to deactivate the alarm when you feel safe. It's a swift and effective means of summoning help and drawing attention to any situation. 

Best Door Stopper With A Built-In Alarm

Deters criminals from breaking in, acemining door stopper alarm.

Weight: 3.68 ounces | Dimensions: 5.45 x 1.8 x 1.52 inches | Special features: Made of stainless steel but lightweight and easy to pack

This simple but effective door stopper prevents unauthorized visitors from entering your room by reinforcing the door. If someone attempts to tamper with your hotel room door (even by putting pressure on it), the stopper emits a 120-decibel alarm (for context, that's about as loud as a jet plane taking off ). Set-up is easy—just shove it in the gap between the ground and the bottom of your door, like you would any other door stopper—and it’s powered by a 9-volt battery. 

Best Portable Door Lock

No breaking and entering here, acemining portable door lock.

Weight: 4.2 ounces | Dimensions: 6 x 1.65 x 0.3 inches | Special features: Easy to install or remove, without any tools

Not all door locks in hotel or Airbnbs are break-in-proof. As a portable and lightweight solution, this handy door lock reinforces a door’s existing locking mechanisms on the handle so the door can’t be opened from the outside, whether with a key card or a traditional key. It’s easily installed in seconds and doesn't require any tools—just slide the metal piece into the slot of the door lock, close the door and clip the red portion into one of the holes (there are two, ensuring it'll fit any size door). Keep in mind that this gadget only works on inward-opening doors—so it’s not the best fit for double doors or doors that slide or swing outward.

Best Luggage Tracker

Keeping tabs on your valuables, apple airtag 4 pack.

Weight: 0.39 ounces | Dimensions: 1.26 x 1.26 x 0.31 inches | Special features: Built-in speaker plays a sound to help you locate lost items

A tiny bit larger than a quarter, Apple’s AirTag devices use Bluetooth tracking to help you quickly locate your baggage, no matter where it is, or keep tabs on anything that’s valuable or important to you, from your purse or wallet to your camera bag or even a pet (put it on the collar). The AirTag uses Apple’s Find My network to share its location securely and has a speaker function to set out a signal, making it easier to find. For Samsung loyalists, I recommend the SmartTag2 , and for even more options, check out our guide to the Best Luggage Trackers .

Best RFID-Blocking Travel Wallet

Keeping your cards secure, zoppen multi-purpose rfid blocking passport holder travel wallet.

Weight: 6 ounces | Dimensions: 7.8 x 4.7 x 1 inches | Special features:

Thieves don’t need your physical credit card to make charges on it—they can nab your personal information by scanning devices that emit Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) signals, essentially pickpocketing you electronically. Similarly, they can skim the data from your passport (because, like credit cards, they have microchips in them), which they could use to steal your identity. A RFID-blocking wallet is made from a material that blocks the signals, effectively creating a shield from digital theft around your cards and IDs. This pick from Zoppen comes in more than 30 colors and features pockets for your passport, boarding pass, eight credit cards, one SIM card, cash, coins and a pen. 

Best Anti-Theft Bag

Stylish and discreet with excellent safety features, pacsafe women's citysafe cx anti theft convertible backpack.

Weight: 0.99 pound | Dimensions: 13.4 x 10.2 x 4.7 inches | Special features: RFID-blocking, converts from a backpack to a purse

From hidden compartments and lockable zippers to slash-proof materials and RFID-blocking pockets, Pacsafe's anti-theft backpacks is one of my favorites to travel with. To thwart determined thieves, this bag is reinforced with lightweight steel mesh you can’t cut through and the shoulder straps are reinforced with wire, which means it can be secured to tables or chairs if needed. Its ability to fold down into a handbag makes it particularly versatile—you can wear it as a backpack during the day and a purse at night. Bonus: the bag is water resistant, easy to clean and has a five-year warranty. 

Best TSA-Approved Luggage Lock

Keeps suitcases locked up tightly, master lock padlock.

Weight: 0.21 ounces | Dimensions: 0.55 x 1.57 x 4.16 inches | Special features: Can be set with 1-word combination or numbers depending on the style

I reviewed multiple locks for our Best TSA-Approved Luggage Locks guide, and the best option overall is this one from Master Lock. Made with heavy-duty steel, it's simple to operate but hard to break into, and because it features a two-inch shackle, it fits everything from suitcases to equipment boxes. It comes in two styles for travelers—one with a word combination and another with a numeric combination.

Best Portable Lock Box

A mini lock-box you can take on the go, safego portable indoor/outdoor lock box safe.

Weight: 1 pound | Dimensions: 7 x 4 x 7.5 inches | Special features: Water-resistant, suitable for indoor-outdoor use

Most hostels and Airbnbs do not have a lock-box or safe in the room. Similarly, there are scenarios where you might want a bit more protection for your belongings, such as when you're at the beach by yourself and want to keep your items secure while you take a swim. SafeGo’s portable lock box is a small, secure repository for storing passports, jewelry, cash and electronics. It has a flexible steel cable that allows you to secure it around most fixed objects and a lock that opens with a three-digit code of your choosing or a key. It's rust, water and impact-resistant, making it more tamper-proof. As an added bonus, it offers earphone or charger access, so you can listen to music or charge your phone while it's locked away.

Best Travel First-Aid Kit

For aillments and injuries on the road, adventure medical kits mountain series hiker medical kit.

Weight: 7.2 ounces | Dimensions: 6.5 x 5.5 x 3 inches | Special features: Compact, easily fits into a fanny pack

Accidents can happen anywhere, and having essential medical supplies on hand can provide immediate relief or assistance until professional help is available. This compact option from Adventure Medical Kits is small enough to toss in your bag while still covering most minor injuries and ailments. It includes trauma pads, butterfly bandages, antiseptic wipes and medical tape for bleeding; elastic bandages for sprained ankles; common medications for allergic reactions, itching, pain, fever, inflammation and diarrhea; and a first-aid guide to help you administer care. It also includes moleskin, which is great for blisters. The nylon bag is organized with injury-specific pockets, so you'll be able to find what you're looking for easily and quickly. 

Best Carbon Monoxide Detector

Keeps you safe in rentals and hotels without this tool, kidde carbon monoxide detector.

Weight: 0.635 ounces | Dimensions: 2.75 x 1.5 x 4.5 inches | Special features: Battery back-up, plugs into wall outlet, emits a 85-decibel alarm

In many places around the world, it's not a requirement for hotel rooms or short-term rentals to have a carbon monoxide detector. Having one of your own could help save your life. Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless poisonous gas, which, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention , is produced any time you burn fuel in stoves, lanterns, grills, fireplaces, gas ranges or furnaces. This option from Kidde simply plugs into a standard outlet (if you're traveling internationally, don't forget an adapter) but also has a battery backup. When it senses carbon monoxide, it emits a 85-decibel alarm. 

Best Home Security System

Monitor your home when you're away, ring floodlight cam and ring video doorbell.

Weight: Varies | Dimensions: Varies | Special features:

While this isn’t a product you’ll pack in your suitcase, Ring’s video doorbell and floodlight camera help you monitor your home from anywhere in the world. With the smartphone app, you can check in on your property in real-time and if Ring's motion sensors and cameras detect any suspicious movements or unexpected visitors, you'll be immediately notified. Additionally, the visible presence of security cameras and alarms can act as a powerful deterrent to potential burglars.

Why Trust Forbes Vetted

The Forbes Vetted travel team has researched, written and published dozens of articles about the very best products for travel, from the best luggage for your next trip to the best carry-on backpacks that fit into an airplane’s overhead bin. When it came time to identify the best travel safety devices, we applied the same unyielding commitment to ensure that our readers feel safe no matter where their travels take them.

We examined each contender on this list, closely examining use cases and testing them out on multiple trips. To make the cut for our travel safety device list, products were required to be versatile and compact, allowing them to be used in a variety of situations while also being lightweight enough to toss into your backpack, carry-on or personal item.

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions