There’s something timeless about driving the open road with your favorite soundtrack blasting, windows open, and nothing but the road and opportunity stretching out before you. For touring acts who drive from town to town, sleeping in a car for days (and nights) isn’t some occasional indulgence, more like a way of life. So when they have tips on what cars are the best road trip cars, we’re all ears.
These are people who know what matters on long drives: comfort, reliability, good fuel economy, and of course, enough space for gear and friends. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or dreaming of a cross-country ride, these musician-approved road trip cars might just inspire your next ride or your next playlist.
And hey, if you’re the kind of person who dreams of sleek lines and high performance more than legroom and cup holders, there are some seriously tempting sport cars for sale over at dyler.com/cars/sports-cars-for-sale. Just saying, there’s a ride out there for every kind of road tripper.
1. Subaru Outback
For a balance of comfort, cargo room, and off-road capability, the Subaru Outback can’t be beat. A particular favorite of indie musicians who toss guitars, amps, and drum kits in the back and travel from gig to gig, the Outback’s four-wheel drive and durable construction make it ready for any road trip, on any road.
Many artists comment on how they enjoy the smooth ride and decent gas mileage (around 26 mpg combined). The roomy back seats and cargo area are so spacious that you can transport everything from gear to grub and still have space to get comfortable.
2. Honda Odyssey
Minivans may not scream “cool,” but they win when it comes to utility and artists know that more than anyone else. The Honda Odyssey is a top pick with many road-tripping bands because of its space, adaptability, and comfort. Seats in the back fold up for gear, and space is still available for the whole band to lie out.
And, there are new models featuring all manner of added goodies like vacuum cleaners built into them and rear seat entertainment systems. For road warriors who live in their car for weeks on end, the Odyssey is a home away from home.
3. Toyota Prius
Not every tour has a massive budget, especially at first. That’s why so many up-and-coming musicians choose the Toyota Prius. It’s economical, easy to drive, and surprisingly spacious for a subcompact. Phoebe Bridgers spoke about touring in a Prius early on—its low gas cost left more funds for food, motels, and maybe even some decent stage lighting.
The Prius might not have all the bells and whistles, but for solo artists or duos, it checks all the important boxes.
4. Ford Transit
If you’re traveling with a band, a sound tech, and a small mountain of gear, the Ford Transit is your best bet. It’s like a blank canvas for road trippers, you can customize the seating, build a bunk setup, or leave the back open for equipment.
Most touring bands that tour full-time choose the Transit because it’s the compromise between a tour bus and a regular van. It has enough brawn to do cross-country driving and enough space to stay in, if need be.
5. Volvo XC90
For creatives who enjoy high-end luxury but aren’t so over-the-top as a rock tour bus, Volvo XC90 brings class to the road. Leather interior, smooth-as-baby-oil ride, and state-of-the-art safety technologies, it feels like having your living room mobile.
Some musicians say the sound system alone makes it worth it—it’s perfect for checking mixes or just enjoying music the way it was meant to be heard. Add to that a roomy interior and strong fuel economy for an SUV, and you’ve got a ride that delivers comfort and class.
6. Jeep Grand Cherokee
Certain road tours set you far off the main road. That is where the Jeep Grand Cherokee really shines. Touring musicians that play in outlying cities or at festival locations off the road tend to enjoy SUVs capable of withstanding any terrain.
The Grand Cherokee gives off-road capability without losing comfort, and it’s suitable for those searching for adventure with their performances. Its tough towing capacity enables you to tow a trailer as well for added equipment or an overnight stay.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the most suitable road trip automobile is up to your requirements. For some, it’s all about the fuel economy. For others, it’s being able to pack enough room to take your world along. Touring musicians have a special existence that they live where they test their cars to the max, so when touring musicians say a car is road trip-worthy, it generally is.
Regardless of whether you’re going after music festivals, having the weekend getaway with friends, or just escaping the city for a few days, one of these tested-and-proven rides might well be your perfect companion on the journey. All you’ll need to do now is fill ‘er up and press play.
