Foreign travel is exciting, exhilarating, and for many of us, a rare occasion. That may mean you want to see it all. Which involves squeezing in as much of your destination’s sites, people, and quirks as possible. What better way to do so than a road trip? But let’s first see what some road trip-friendly countries you should check out before jumping in.
Camper van hire is perhaps one of the best ways to indulge in all a city or country offers. It gives you the freedom of movement and the luxury of deciding when, where, and what you want to see, all at your own pace.
Sign up for the newsletter for travel inspiration.
1. New Zealand
With no part of New Zealand more than 80 miles from the sea and a population that is more animal than human (95 percent to 5 percent), you’re in for a true dose of nature careening around the island in a caravan. For tips on where to start and where to go, check out these itineraries, which highlight North Island trips, South Island trips, and other gems.
Jucy is a popular car and camper hire company with pick-up locations at just about every airport on the island. The company offers a full and diverse range of cars and campers, but their flashy green color may turn off some sensible travelers, and for that, other options exist. KEA provides a more traditional camper aesthetic experience, with branches in Auckland and Christchurch.
Tune into Tourism Radio, which is free for all KEA hires, to keep you updated throughout your route. Maui offers the option of camper pick-up in Auckland, Christchurch, and Queenstown, allowing two to six people to sleep. A week-long trip for four will run for about $300 to $900.
2. Thailand
With 3,219 kilometers of coastline to explore, Thailand is one of the best road trip-friendly countries. Voted the world’s fifth friendliest country, Thailand is an undisputed sight for sore eyes and a much-needed escape for the soul. This is one of the best road trip-friendly countries, and you can take full control of your itinerary by renting a camper van.
Share a cost of $180 to $360 per night among four to eight friends, as you explore the beautiful nature of Thailand. Campervan Thailand’s fleet features air conditioners, bathrooms and showers, sound systems, microwaves and refrigerators, and comfy beds.
Discounts are available for weekly and monthly rentals. There are only a few campgrounds in Thailand, so Campervan Thailand works with a network of small hotels and guesthouses with space available for campers to park. You can explore the mountains or the coast, with a 500-kilometer-per-day limit on how far you can drive.
3. Portugal
Take a dip in the waters of one of the oldest countries in Europe. Portugal has had the same defined borders since 1139, and Lisbon is even older than Rome. The country’s 934-kilometer Atlantic coastline is one of the world’s top surfing spots. The food is phenomenal, and a lot of the country feels untouched and unadulterated by the tourism industry.
Campertales is a unique camper van hire service, providing travelers with a unique driving experience in classic Volkswagen Westfalia camper vans. These vans drive at a lower speed to help you relax and soak up the trip. Prices range from 80,00€ to 135,00€ per day.
4. South Africa
Known for its long sunny days, South Africa boasts 3,000 kilometers of coastline, 11 official languages, and an incredibly diverse culinary culture.
Bobo Campers is South Africa’s first camper van hire company that has vehicles able to hold between two and six people. Camper vans run from $60 to $130 per night. Wicked Campers is perhaps the cheapest camper van hire company in South Africa. Five days and four nights will cost only $272.
5. Norway
Glimpse the Northern Lights, hike in the Jotunheimen National Park, and take an Instagram-worthy picture of yourself perched on the Pulpit Rock cliff (with caution). Eco-friendly Norway is home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world and is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Exploring the country in a camper van is ideal for those looking to hit as many spots as possible at a self-directed pace. Nordic Campers is the self-proclaimed best of them all, with prices ranging from 120€ to 180€ per day. Motorhome Norway offers a wider range of vehicles, able to fit up to 6 people at a time, but is on the more expensive side – a one-week trip for a family of four can cost more than $2,000.
7 Best Spiritual Destination Vacation Spots
7 Best Vacation Spots for Bike Tours: Explore the World on Two Wheels
5 Active as Heck Vacations for Adventure Addicts
