RV Travel Bucket List: 10 Dreamy Road Trips to Add to Your Itinerary

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure? If you own an RV, you have the perfect vehicle to explore the open road and discover breathtaking destinations. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to the RV lifestyle, creating a travel bucket list is an exciting way to plan your future road trips. In this article, we’ll take you through 10 dreamy road trips that should be on your RV travel bucket list.

What you will learn:

• 10 dreamy road trips to add to your RV travel bucket list
• Key highlights and attractions of each road trip
• Tips and recommendations for planning your RV road trips
• 10 dreamy road trips to add to your RV travel bucket list include:
• Pacific Coast Highway: From California to Washington, enjoy stunning coastal views and charming towns along the way.
• Route 66: Experience the iconic American road trip, passing through several states and visiting famous landmarks.
• The Great Smoky Mountains: Explore the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains and immerse yourself in nature.
• Alaska’s Dalton Highway: Embark on an adventurous journey through rugged terrains and witness breathtaking landscapes.
• The Florida Keys: Enjoy a tropical paradise as you drive across a series of islands with crystal-clear waters.
• The Blue Ridge Parkway: Travel through the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains and discover picturesque vistas.
• The Grand Circle: Visit some of the most iconic national parks in the United States, including Grand Canyon and Zion.
• The Canadian Rockies: Experience the majestic beauty of Canada’s Rocky Mountains and encounter diverse wildlife.
• The Great Ocean Road: Drive along the scenic coast of Australia and witness stunning ocean views and unique rock formations.
• The Scottish Highlands: Explore the rugged landscapes and ancient castles of Scotland.
• Each road trip offers unique highlights and attractions, such as coastal views, national parks, mountains, and cultural landmarks.
• Planning your RV road trips requires careful preparation, including route mapping, campground reservations, and packing essentials.

1. Pacific Coast Highway, California

No RV travel bucket list would be complete without the iconic Pacific Coast Highway. Stretching over 600 miles along the California coastline, this scenic route offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, towering cliffs, and charming coastal towns. Start your journey in San Francisco and make your way down to San Diego, stopping at must-see attractions like Big Sur, Santa Barbara, and Malibu. Don’t forget to park your RV at one of the many RV-friendly campsites along the way for a night under the stars.

Personal Story: Exploring the Pacific Coast Highway

One of my most memorable road trips was along the Pacific Coast Highway, a scenic stretch of highway that winds along the coast of California. My husband and I had always dreamed of driving this iconic route, so we rented an RV and set off on our adventure.

We started our journey in San Francisco, where we picked up the RV and began our drive south. As we made our way along the Pacific Coast Highway, we were treated to breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, towering cliffs, and crashing waves. We stopped at picturesque viewpoints and took leisurely strolls along the sandy beaches.

One of the highlights of our trip was visiting Big Sur, a majestic stretch of coastline known for its dramatic scenery. We parked our RV at a campground nestled among the redwood trees and spent our days hiking through the lush forests and exploring hidden coves. In the evenings, we sat by the campfire, gazing up at the star-filled sky and listening to the sounds of nature.

Continuing our journey, we passed through charming coastal towns like Santa Barbara and Malibu, where we indulged in fresh seafood and enjoyed the laid-back California lifestyle. We also made a stop at Hearst Castle, a grand mansion perched atop a hill overlooking the ocean. The opulence and history of the castle were truly awe-inspiring.

After several days of driving, we reached our final destination: San Diego. We spent our last few days soaking up the sun on the beautiful beaches, exploring the vibrant neighborhoods, and sampling delicious Mexican cuisine.

Our road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allowed us to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of California’s coastline. It was a journey filled with unforgettable moments and breathtaking sights. If you’re looking for a dreamy road trip to add to your RV travel bucket list, I highly recommend exploring the Pacific Coast Highway.

2. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina to Virginia

For a leisurely and picturesque road trip, add the Blue Ridge Parkway to your RV travel bucket list. This scenic drive takes you through the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, offering breathtaking views of rolling hills, vibrant forests, and cascading waterfalls. Starting in North Carolina and ending in Virginia, this 469-mile route is a nature lover’s paradise. Be sure to explore popular stops like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Linville Falls, and the Shenandoah Valley.

2.1 Great Smoky Mountains National Park

One of the highlights along the Blue Ridge Parkway is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant fall foliage, this national park is a must-visit for RV travelers. Take a scenic drive through Cades Cove, hike to Clingmans Dome for panoramic views, and experience the rich Appalachian culture at the Mountain Farm Museum. With numerous RV-friendly campgrounds, you can immerse yourself in nature and wake up to the sounds of the forest.

3. Route 66, United States

If you’re looking for a nostalgic road trip, Route 66 is the ultimate choice. Stretching from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California, this historic highway takes you on a journey through America’s heartland. Along the way, you’ll encounter quirky roadside attractions, charming small towns, and iconic landmarks. Visit the Cadillac Ranch in Texas, explore the Grand Canyon in Arizona, and indulge in classic diner food in Missouri. Don’t forget to capture the essence of this iconic route by taking memorable photos with your RV.

4. The Great Ocean Road, Australia

For our international RV travelers, the Great Ocean Road in Australia is a must-see destination. This 151-mile road trip offers breathtaking views of the rugged Australian coastline, pristine beaches, and the world-famous Twelve Apostles rock formations. Start your journey in Torquay and make your way to Port Fairy, passing through picturesque towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay. Take your time to explore the stunning national parks, go surfing at Bells Beach, and witness the sunset at the Twelve Apostles.

4.1 Twelve Apostles

One of the highlights of the Great Ocean Road is the Twelve Apostles, a collection of limestone stacks rising majestically from the Southern Ocean. These towering formations are a marvel of nature and provide a stunning backdrop for photography enthusiasts. Take a helicopter ride for a bird’s-eye view or stroll along the designated walking trails to witness the beauty up close. Camping spots are available nearby, allowing you to extend your stay and fully immerse yourself in this natural wonder.

5. Ring Road, Iceland

Iceland’s Ring Road is a dream destination for adventurous RV travelers. This 828-mile loop takes you around the entire country, offering a diverse range of landscapes, including glaciers, waterfalls, volcanoes, and geothermal hot springs. Start your journey in Reykjavik and make your way to popular attractions like the Golden Circle, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, and the stunning black sand beaches of Vik. With numerous RV campsites and the freedom to explore at your own pace, this road trip is a must-do for nature enthusiasts.

5.1 Golden Circle

One of the highlights along Iceland’s Ring Road is the Golden Circle. This popular tourist route includes three must-visit attractions: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. Explore the rift valley at Thingvellir, where you can witness the tectonic plates drifting apart, visit the geysers at Geysir, and marvel at the power and beauty of Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. Camping sites are available near the attractions, allowing you to enjoy the natural wonders at your own pace.

6. Garden Route, South Africa

For a road trip that combines stunning coastal scenery with vibrant wildlife, the Garden Route in South Africa is the perfect choice. This 186-mile stretch takes you through lush forests, sparkling lagoons, and picturesque coastal towns. Start your journey in Mossel Bay and make your way to Storms River, passing through popular destinations like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to spot wildlife in national parks, go whale watching, and explore the stunning beaches.

6.1 Addo Elephant National Park

One of the highlights along the Garden Route is Addo Elephant National Park. As the third-largest national park in South Africa, it’s home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and zebras. Embark on a self-drive safari in your RV and get up close to these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. With camping facilities available within the park, you can spend the night surrounded by the sounds of the African bush.

7. The Ring of Kerry, Ireland

If you’re seeking breathtaking landscapes and charming Irish villages, the Ring of Kerry in Ireland is a road trip you won’t want to miss. This 111-mile route takes you through the spectacular scenery of County Kerry, offering stunning views of mountains, lakes, and rugged coastline. Start your journey in Killarney and make your way around the Iveragh Peninsula, passing through picturesque towns like Kenmare, Sneem, and Cahersiveen. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to visit ancient ruins, explore national parks, and experience traditional Irish music and culture.

7.1 Killarney National Park

One of the highlights along the Ring of Kerry is Killarney National Park. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is a paradise for nature lovers, with its pristine lakes, lush forests, and majestic mountains. Take a boat trip on the famous Lakes of Killarney, hike to the summit of Torc Mountain for panoramic views, and visit the historic Muckross House and Gardens. With camping facilities available nearby, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the park and enjoy the tranquility of the Irish countryside.

8. Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia, Canada

For a road trip that combines stunning coastal scenery with rich cultural heritage, the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia, Canada is a top choice. This 185-mile loop takes you through Cape Breton Island, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, rugged cliffs, and charming fishing villages. Start your journey in Baddeck and make your way around the trail, passing through Cape Breton Highlands National Park and the Acadian region. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to indulge in fresh seafood, explore historic sites, and experience vibrant Celtic music and traditions.

8.1 Cape Breton Highlands National Park

One of the highlights along the Cabot Trail is Cape Breton Highlands National Park. This pristine wilderness is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with its hiking trails, scenic lookouts, and diverse wildlife. Take a hike along the Skyline Trail for panoramic views of the coastline, drive the picturesque Cabot Trail, and explore the charming fishing village of Chéticamp. With RV-friendly campsites available within the park, you can fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Cape Breton.

9. North Coast 500, Scotland

For a road trip that combines rugged landscapes with historic castles and charming villages, the North Coast 500 in Scotland is a must-do for RV travelers. This 516-mile route takes you along the scenic coastline of the Scottish Highlands, offering breathtaking views of mountains, lochs, and ancient ruins. Start your journey in Inverness and make your way around the loop, passing through iconic locations like the Isle of Skye, John o’ Groats, and the North West Highlands Geopark. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to spot wildlife, visit historic sites, and