Cars and road trips in Canada
Canada is made for road trips, with long roads that wind through vast countryside, impressive mountain passes and landscapes that evolve at every turn. Below, we cover everything you need to know about driving in Canada, from why we recommend cars over motorhomes to insurance, practical tips, and expertly designed routes.
Car or motorhome?
Many travellers imagine exploring Canada by motorhome, pulling up beside lakes or mountains whenever they wish. In reality, travelling by car or SUV often offers far greater flexibility.
Many of Canada’s most charming places to stay, scenic roads, and hidden gems are best accessed by car. Travelling this way also allows you to experience welcoming lodges, cosy inns, and boutique accommodations that motorhomes simply can’t reach.
There’s a common misconception that travelling by motorhome is cheaper. But once you factor in additional costs such as insurance, campground fees, fuel, and one-way charges, it often proves more expensive than expected.
Hiring a car or SUV combined with stays at small-scale accommodations usually offers better value and a much richer travel experience.
With a car, you enjoy far greater freedom than when travelling by motorhome. You can easily explore smaller roads, stop at scenic viewpoints, and visit charming towns without worrying about parking restrictions or campground availability.
You’re free to stay longer in places you love, take spontaneous detours, or enjoy a relaxed day surrounded by nature. Travelling by car allows you to experience Canada’s landscapes entirely at your own pace.
Many travellers picture life on the road in a motorhome, but the real magic of travelling through Canada often lies in the places you stay.
Travelling by car allows you to enjoy cosy mountain lodges, lakeside cabins, welcoming farm stays, and boutique B&Bs surrounded by spectacular scenery. These are places motorhomes rarely reach, run by hosts who love sharing their local knowledge and stories.
And after a day of exploring the Rockies or the coastline, returning to a comfortable room with a warm welcome beats packing up a motorhome each morning.
Driving in Canada
Driving in Canada is relaxed and straightforward. Outside the major cities, the roads are spacious, well maintained, and surrounded by incredible scenery. From mountain passes and forested valleys to coastal highways, every drive offers something memorable.
Once outside the cities, traffic is generally light and easy to navigate. Long stretches of open highway allow you to drive comfortably while enjoying Canada’s vast natural landscapes.
It’s not uncommon to travel for miles with little traffic around you, creating a peaceful and enjoyable driving experience.
Canada’s main travel routes are well equipped with petrol stations, cafés, and rest areas, making it easy to take a break whenever you like.
Along the way you’ll also discover scenic viewpoints, hiking trails, lakeside picnic spots, and charming towns that invite you to stop and explore.
Road trip inspiration
What type of car should you choose?
The best vehicle for your road trip depends on how many people are travelling, how much luggage you have, and the level of comfort you prefer. Here’s a simple guide:
Perfect for solo travellers or couples, a compact SUV is fuel efficient and easy to drive. Its smaller size makes it ideal for navigating towns and parking in busy areas.
A medium SUV offers a great balance of comfort and practicality. With extra luggage space, it’s a popular choice for couples or small families.
For families or groups travelling together, a large SUV provides maximum comfort and plenty of room for luggage. It’s ideal for longer journeys across Canada’s vast landscapes.
Why plan your road trip with Little America?
Booking your holiday with Little America means benefiting from years of first-hand experience creating memorable self-drive journeys across Canada. Here’s what makes our road trips stand out:
New vehicles
Choice of compact, medium, or large SUVs
Comprehensive insurance with zero excess
Favourable rates outside of high season
Freedom to explore places motorhomes can't reach
CO₂ offsetting for a more responsible journey
Plan your Canada road trip
Ready to explore Canada at your own pace? Our travel specialists will design a personalised itinerary for your dream road trip, taking care of every detail, from flights to car hire and accommodation.
All you have to do is enjoy the journey ahead.
