The Great American Road Trip Revival: Top Travel Trends for Summer 2025

After years of travel uncertainty, one thing is clear: the American road trip is back, and it’s booming. In 2025, families, couples, and solo adventurers alike are rediscovering the joys of hitting the open road. With a renewed interest in local exploration, flexibility, and connection to nature, the road trip has become more than just a way to get from A to B—it’s a travel experience in its own right.

While the reasons for this revival are varied—ranging from rising airfare prices to a post-pandemic shift in how people define “vacation”—what unites road trippers across the country is a desire for freedom, spontaneity, and adventure. Whether you’re travelling coast to coast or just a few hours from home, today’s road trips are smarter, more sustainable, and more personalized than ever before.

For outdoor enthusiasts in particular, having the right gear is a big part of what makes a road trip successful. More travelers are equipping their vehicles with rooftop tents, solar panels, and hitch bike racks to bring along multiple bikes without sacrificing interior space. These racks allow adventurers to easily access trails, parks, and bike-friendly cities without compromising on packing room or comfort.

Here’s a closer look at the travel trends shaping the American road trip scene this summer—and how you can take full advantage of them.

1. Domestic Travel is Still King

Even with international borders fully open, many Americans are sticking closer to home. Domestic destinations offer convenience, familiarity, and a level of spontaneity that flying simply can’t match. With the country’s vast network of national parks, scenic byways, and culturally rich small towns, there’s no shortage of inspiring routes to explore.

From California’s Pacific Coast Highway to Utah’s Mighty Five national parks, iconic American road trip routes are busier than ever—and for good reason. They offer the chance to disconnect from daily stress, reconnect with loved ones, and experience the beauty and diversity of the U.S. landscape.

2. Customization Over Itineraries

Gone are the days of rigid schedules and over-planned routes. Today’s road trippers are embracing flexibility, letting the journey dictate the destination. Apps like Roadtrippers, overlander, and The Dirt are helping people build dynamic routes with options to detour, linger, or reroute on the fly.

People are also building road trips around themes—whether it’s food (hello, BBQ trail!), outdoor adventure (bike trails, hikes, paddling spots), or wellness (hot springs, retreats, and nature escapes). This approach allows travelers to craft a trip that feels more personal and less touristy.

3. Car Camping and Van Life Continue to Rise

With hotels often booked or priced out during peak season, many road trippers are turning to car camping and camper vans as flexible, budget-friendly alternatives. The van life trend shows no signs of slowing down, and manufacturers are responding with compact, functional builds that cater to both long-term nomads and weekend warriors.

Car camping has also evolved. Many travelers are outfitting their SUVs or trucks with mattress platforms, slide-out storage drawers, and cooking setups to make life on the road more comfortable. National forests and BLM land continue to be popular free camping options, particularly for those seeking quiet, off-the-grid experiences.

4. State Parks Are the New National Parks

While national parks remain major attractions, their popularity has led to crowds, reservation systems, and higher fees. As a result, many travelers are turning their attention to lesser-known state parks that offer similar beauty and recreation opportunities without the hassle.

From Washington’s Deception Pass to Tennessee’s Fall Creek Falls, state parks across the country are drawing visitors with their waterfalls, hiking trails, and waterfront campsites. They’re also easier to book and often more pet-friendly, making them an appealing option for families and casual campers alike.

5. Tech-Savvy Travel Is the Norm

Technology now plays a central role in how people plan and execute road trips. Beyond navigation, apps are helping with everything from campsite availability to EV charging stations, local events, and even stargazing forecasts.

Travelers are also investing in gadgets that enhance convenience and sustainability—think portable Wi-Fi routers, solar-powered battery banks, mini fridges, and Bluetooth-enabled cooktops. These upgrades make it easier to stay on the road longer without sacrificing comfort or connectivity.

6. Active Travel Is in Demand

One of the most notable shifts in road trip culture is the emphasis on staying active. Travelers aren’t just driving—they’re biking, hiking, paddleboarding, and running. The ability to integrate physical activity into a vacation has become a major draw, especially for wellness-focused millennials and Gen Z travelers.

This is where having a well-equipped vehicle becomes critical. Gear like hitch bike racks, paddleboard carriers, and rooftop cargo boxes allow travelers to bring everything they need for multiple types of activities without cramming their car full.

7. Pet-Friendly Travel Is a Priority

More Americans are travelling with their pets than ever before, and the road trip is the ideal way to do it. With greater control over stops, accommodations, and activities, it’s easier to include furry family members in the adventure.

Pet-friendly trails, beaches, restaurants, and lodging options are expanding, and many travel apps now include pet-specific filters. Road trippers are also modifying their setups with portable crates, pet beds, and collapsible food stations to keep animals comfortable on long drives.

8. Sustainability Is Part of the Conversation

Eco-conscious travelers are finding ways to make their road trips more sustainable. This includes reducing plastic waste, choosing fuel-efficient vehicles or hybrids, buying local, and leaving no trace when camping.

Some are using carbon offset programs to balance the environmental impact of their drives, while others are seeking out businesses and campgrounds that priorities green practices. The increased use of solar panels for charging devices or powering lights at campgrounds is also on the rise.

9. Experiences Over Things

More people are investing in travel experiences rather than material goods. Instead of flashy souvenirs or luxury resorts, today’s road trippers are collecting memories—sunrise hikes, scenic overlooks, local diner meals, and conversations with strangers.

The road trip is perfectly suited to this trend. It’s accessible, immersive, and full of unpredictable moments that make for better stories and deeper connections. Whether it’s your first time driving cross-country or your tenth weekend in the Catskills, the journey always offers something new.

The Open Road Awaits

The road trip isn’t just back—it’s better than ever. In 2025, it represents a conscious shift in how Americans view travel: less about ticking boxes, more about tuning in. It’s about building trips around curiosity, flexibility, and connection—both to the country and the people who share the ride.

Whether you’re chasing sunsets on the coast, winding through the mountains, or exploring forgotten byways, the road is wide open. And with the right planning, the right gear, and a sense of adventure, this summer’s road trip might just be your best yet.

So, fill up the tank, load the playlist, and pack the essentials. Summer’s calling—and it’s waiting just down the road.