For many travellers, the journey is just as memorable as the destination. In 2026, road trips are expected to remain one of the most popular ways to explore, offering freedom, flexibility, and the chance to discover places that are often missed when flying or travelling by train.

From legendary highways in the United States to dramatic coastal routes in Scotland and Iceland, these are our top road trip predictions for 2026. Whether you're planning a bucket-list adventure or simply looking for inspiration, these unforgettable drives promise spectacular scenery and incredible experiences along the way.

1. Route 66, USA: The Ultimate American Road Trip

No list of iconic drives would be complete without Route 66. Stretching over 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, this legendary highway remains one of the world's most famous road trips.

Travellers can experience eight states, countless roadside attractions, and a fascinating glimpse into America's history and culture. From the skyscrapers of Chicago to the deserts of Arizona and the beaches of California, every section offers something unique.

Highlights include:

• The Gateway Arch in St. Louis.
• Cadillac Ranch in Texas.
• The Grand Canyon in Arizona.
• Santa Monica Pier in California.

Route 66 perfectly captures the spirit of adventure and remains a must-do journey for anyone seeking the classic American road trip experience. Renting a comfortable vehicle allows travellers to explore at their own pace and stop whenever something catches their eye.

2. Canada's Transcontinental Route: Crossing a Country of Endless Beauty

Canada's Trans-Canada Highway is one of the longest road networks in the world, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific coasts across more than 4,800 miles of diverse landscapes.

This epic journey showcases everything Canada has to offer, from vibrant cities and rugged coastlines to towering mountains and crystal-clear lakes. While completing the entire route can take several weeks, many travellers choose to explore sections of the highway depending on their schedule.

Must-see stops include:

• Banff National Park and Lake Louise.
• Vancouver and the Pacific Coast.
• Toronto and Niagara Falls.
• Quebec City's historic old town.
• The coastal scenery of Nova Scotia.

Driving across Canada provides endless opportunities for outdoor adventures and wildlife encounters. The flexibility of car rental makes it easy to create a personalised itinerary and enjoy one of the greatest road trips on Earth.

3. Iceland's Ring Road: A Journey Around the Land of Fire and Ice

Few countries offer landscapes as dramatic and diverse as Iceland. The Ring Road, officially Route 1, circles the island and connects many of its most spectacular natural wonders.

Covering around 820 miles, the route can comfortably be completed in seven to ten days, although many travellers choose to spend longer exploring Iceland's hidden gems.

Highlights along the Ring Road include:

• Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls.
• The black sand beaches of Vik.
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.
• Lake Mývatn and North Iceland.
• Whale watching in Húsavík.
• The geothermal wonders surrounding Reykjavík.

Summer 2026 is expected to bring another surge in visitors to Iceland, and self-driving remains one of the best ways to experience the country's remote beauty. A rental car allows travellers to stop whenever they encounter breathtaking landscapes—which in Iceland, happens frequently.

4. Australia's Pacific Highway: Coastlines, Beaches and Wildlife

Australia's Pacific Highway, stretching from Sydney to Brisbane, is one of the most scenic coastal drives in the Southern Hemisphere. Combining golden beaches, national parks, and charming seaside towns, this route is perfect for travellers looking for relaxation and adventure.

The journey can be completed in around ten days, although many visitors extend their trip to fully enjoy Australia's laid-back lifestyle.

Top stops include:

• Port Stephens and its famous sand dunes.
• Byron Bay's stunning beaches.
• Coffs Harbour and the Big Banana.
• The Gold Coast's world-famous coastline.
• Brisbane and Queensland's vibrant capital.

Along the way, travellers can enjoy surfing, whale watching, rainforest walks, and incredible wildlife encounters. With endless ocean views and sunny weather, the Pacific Highway is expected to remain one of the most desirable road trips of 2026.

5. The North Coast 500, Scotland: Britain's Answer to Route 66

The North Coast 500, commonly known as the NC500, has become one of Europe's most celebrated driving routes. Starting and finishing in Inverness, this 516-mile circular journey showcases some of Scotland's most dramatic scenery.

The route takes travellers through the Scottish Highlands, along rugged coastlines, and past ancient castles, charming villages, and white sandy beaches that rival destinations in the Caribbean.

Must-visit highlights include:

• Bealach na Bà, one of Britain's most spectacular roads.
• The beaches of Durness and Achmelvich.
• Dunrobin Castle.
• Applecross Peninsula.
• John O'Groats and the northern coastline.

The NC500 offers an unforgettable combination of adventure, history, and breathtaking landscapes. For those looking to experience Scotland beyond the cities, few journeys compare to this remarkable route.

From the legendary Route 66 and Canada's epic transcontinental highway to Iceland's otherworldly landscapes, Australia's stunning Pacific coast, and Scotland's famous NC500, 2026 promises to be another incredible year for road trips.

No matter where the road leads, travelling by car allows you to experience more, uncover hidden treasures, and enjoy the journey as much as the destination. If you're planning your next adventure, these five iconic drives deserve a place at the top of your bucket list.