The annual Portrait of American Travelers survey has documented a 64% increase in road trips since 2015, underscoring that the legendary Great American Road Trip is still going strong. If the soul of a road trip is the combination of the route you choose, the destination you end up at, and the people you take share the journey with, the heart is the vehicle that gets you there. This is precisely why bimmer owners have the upper hand when it comes to road trips.
Road Trip Favorites
Whichever model you own, you’re well kitted out for a smooth and comfortable ride, but there are a few bimmers that lend themselves particularly well to a road trip. Space and connectivity are key for a successful adventure, making the 5 Series a good choice. With a huge trunk and a spacious cabin, everyone will be comfortable, and since you get 34 miles per gallon on the highway, it’s a fuel-efficient option. The X5 xDrive35d and the 3 Series Grand Turismo offer similar benefits.
Of course, no two road trips are the same, so the best car for a road trip depends on where you’re going and how many people you’re traveling with. A model commonly hailed as the ultimate road trip bimmer is the Z8 — it’s fast, fun to drive and comfortable, and it has a sleek look for a stylish road trip image. Ultimately, the best ride for your trip depends on whether you’re prioritizing space, speed or fuel efficiency, but it’s hard to make a bad choice.
The Advantage Of Connected Drive
BMW ConnectedDrive also gives you a distinct road trip advantage. As you’re likely to be traveling on unfamiliar roads and getting distracted by stunning scenery, its visual display is a godsend in keeping you aware of collision warnings, lane changes and driving speed. The night vision technology ensures peace of mind on quiet roads after dark, allowing you to detect an animal on the road at up to 900 feet. It allows the freedom to choose whichever destination and route you feel like without worrying about safety and familiarity. Plus, having the ability to sync your calendars, contacts, and emails means you can stay connected for your whole trip.
Back To Basics
With your bimmer being high on the list of best road trip cars, it would be easy to get complacent, but it’s important to pay attention to the little things that will make your road trip a sure success. Make sure you don’t set off without your license and registration, your insurance policy and contacts, your bimmer’s manual and a roadside emergency kit. Be sure to check your spare tire too. It’s a good idea to take a paper map, just in case you lose connectivity, and while you’re going retro, remember to carry cash for road tolls and parking meters too.
Travel safety in the viral age is more important than ever, so make sure you have a fully stocked first aid kit with you. Boost your immunity by carrying plenty of water, and avoid sugary drinks to help you stay hydrated. Add Vitamins C, D and B to your first aid kit to boost your immunity and energy, and make sure you carry hand sanitizer and toilet roll. Keep a blanket in the car too: sleep is vital, and nap stops should be warm and comfortable. Bug spray and flashlights are also a good idea, as well as an ice scraper and snow shovel if you’re traveling somewhere cold.
Your bimmer is a great road trip car, whichever model it is. Make sure you research your destination, pick the most scenic route, and pack basic road trip essentials to make sure your drive is one to remember.