Traveling on the open road is incredibly freeing, empowering and it can offer you a unique experience that very few get to have. When you travel and have the freedom of your own wheels, you can go so much further, and venture beyond what tourists typically see. You can do this in your very own van and sleep under the stars on both a part-time and full-time basis. You can also travel from place to place and find short stays, hotels, motels, or sleep out in National Parks when you have a reliable, sturdy set of wheels underneath you. 

Regardless of what kind of road trip life is best suited for you, this guide will help you choose the right vehicle that will help you live out your road trip dreams. 

Know Your Purpose

You might think that’s already been established, right? You’re looking for a car to take on road trips. But what you might not consider is there’s more to a road trip than just driving, GPS, and rest stops.

For starters, you what to think about the kind you want to experience. Do you like driving through urban areas like big cities and progressive towns? Or are you someone who wants to take the road less travelled and explore local gems away from the tourist track?

Your choice will inform the type of vehicle you will be purchasing. (e.g., a pickup truck with an all-wheel-drive option to drive with ease when getting off interstate roads). Note that your car choice will need a few add-ons, regardless of whether it’s a 4WD or a plain old sedan. All-terrain tires, quality covers for your car seats, and a car emergency kit are just some things you’ll need to ensure a fun and safe journey.

Understand Your Budget and Financing Options 

You will need to have a good amount saved up for the deposit. A high deposit, for example, 20% of the worth of the vehicle, can help fetch you better financing deals and lower interest rates. How far your savings go, of course, depends on your financing options and whether you opt for new or used. 

When it comes to getting the best possible deal on your vehicle, you will never want to buy a new vehicle. New vehicles depreciate fast, and there are plenty of barely used models available for you instead. When it comes to financing, you typically have Hire Purchase or Personal Contract Purchase (PCP). These are two of the most popular used car finance Bootle options that drivers look for to finance their next vehicle. In the first, you pay the deposit and then pay monthly installments. The same applies to PCP, but at the end of the agreement, you can choose to either keep or return the car (and trade up for a newer model). 

Understanding which financing option is right for you and how much deposit have or should save up for will make a huge impact on the make and model of the vehicle you choose for yourself. 

Understanding Ongoing Costs 


The cost of the vehicle upfront is only part of the consideration you should make, especially when you want to use it regularly or for long-haul road trips. At the end of the day, more efficient vehicles will cost you less. In some cases, they will cost so much less that you end up saving even if you pay more upfront. In other instances, the savings through ongoing costs will be negligible. Understanding ongoing and operating costs can help you choose the right model and the right deal for your dreams. 

Understanding Your Needs 

Vehicles fulfill both form and function. They can look great, be items of luxury and of status, but also fulfill the very important task of getting you from A to B. When it comes to choosing a vehicle that will accompany you on your travels, it is important to make a note of how you want to travel and what the vehicle needs in order to support you. For example, if you want to buy a rooftop tent, you will need to make sure the vehicle is large enough and includes the top bar rack. If you want to tow sports equipment or a trailer, then the towing weight will matter.  

 

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