The best solo travel road trip destinations are places that are safe, easy to navigate, filled with beautiful scenery, and offer plenty of attractions along the way.
Popular choices include Route 66 (USA), the Pacific Coast Highway, Iceland’s Ring Road, Scotland’s North Coast 500, Australia’s Great Ocean Road, Canada’s Icefields Parkway, and New Zealand’s South Island routes.
Solo road trips are one of the best ways to explore the world.
You control your own time, stop wherever you want, play your favorite music, and enjoy the peaceful freedom of being alone on the road. Many travelers say solo road trips help them grow, think clearly, and discover new places without pressure.
This guide explains the Best Solo Travel Destinations For Road Trips, including what makes each spot special, how to stay safe, and what to expect.
Why Solo Road Trips Are Amazing:
Solo road trips are popular for many reasons:
Freedom
You choose when to stop, where to go, and how long to stay.
Confidence
Driving alone in new places makes you more independent.
Peace
Some people enjoy quiet moments and open roads.
Adventure
Every turn offers something new—mountains, beaches, forests, or cities.
Self-discovery
Being alone helps you understand yourself better.
According to the Adventure Travel Trade Association, solo travel has increased every year because people want more flexibility and meaningful experiences.
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7 Best Solo Travel Destinations For Road Trips:
Below are the top places perfect for solo travelers, based on safety, road quality, scenery, and attractions.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (California, USA)
This is one of the most famous road trips in the world. The road follows the coastline of California, giving you beautiful ocean views.
Why It’s Great for Solo Travelers:
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Safe and well-marked roads
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Plenty of gas stations and food stops
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Friendly towns and beaches
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Stunning views the whole way
Must-See Stops:
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Big Sur
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Santa Monica
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Monterey
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Malibu
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San Francisco
The US National Park Service highlights the coast as one of the most scenic natural areas in the country.
2. Route 66 (USA)
Often called “The Mother Road”, this classic highway stretches from Chicago to Los Angeles.
Why Solo Travelers Love It:
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Easy navigation
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Historic roadside attractions
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Affordable motels
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Old-school diners
Famous Stops:
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Cadillac Ranch
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Petrified Forest National Park
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Santa Fe
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Oklahoma Route 66 Museum
According to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Route 66 remains an iconic American travel experience.
3. Iceland’s Ring Road
A full circle around Iceland, this road offers waterfalls, volcanoes, glaciers, and hot springs.
Why It’s Perfect for Solo Travel:
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Very safe country
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Amazing nature
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English widely spoken
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Easy-to-drive roads
Must-See Places:
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Skógafoss Waterfall
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Blue Lagoon
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Black Sand Beach
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Golden Circle
The World Economic Forum lists Iceland among the safest countries for travelers.
4. North Coast 500 (Scotland)
This 500-mile loop explores the highlands of Scotland.
Great For:
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Scenic cliffs and castles
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Peaceful, quiet drives
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Friendly locals
Top Stops:
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Inverness
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Applecross Pass
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John o’ Groats
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Dunrobin Castle
The BBC Travel calls it one of the world’s most breathtaking routes.
5. Great Ocean Road (Australia)
This coastal drive is famous for its cliffs and beaches.
Why Solo Travelers Love It:
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Clear directional signs
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Stunning nature
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Safe for solo drivers
Famous Stops:
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Twelve Apostles
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Loch Ard Gorge
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Bells Beach
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Apollo Bay
According to Tourism Australia, it’s one of the top scenic drives in the country.
6. Icefields Parkway (Canada)
Located between Banff and Jasper, this is one of the most beautiful roads in North America.
Why It’s Great for Solo Trips:
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Beautiful landscapes
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Good road conditions
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Plenty of hiking trails
Top Stops:
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Athabasca Glacier
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Lake Louise
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Peyto Lake
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Sunwapta Falls
The UNESCO World Heritage Centre recognizes the Canadian Rockies as a protected natural treasure.
7. South Island, New Zealand
This island is famous for crystal lakes, mountains, and adventure cities.
Why It’s Perfect for Solo Travelers:
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Safe and friendly
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Well-maintained roads
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Amazing natural wonders
Best Routes:
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Queenstown to Milford Sound
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Christchurch to Lake Tekapo
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West Coast Drive
New Zealand tourism agencies report that solo travelers make up a large part of their visitors due to safety and scenery.
Important Tips for Solo Road Trips:
1. Plan Your Route
Know the major stops, gas stations, and rest areas.
2. Check the Weather
Some roads look different in rain, snow, or fog.
3. Keep Your Phone Charged
GPS and maps are essential.
4. Tell Someone Your Plan
Share your travel route with family or friends.
5. Stay Hydrated & Rested
Long drives need breaks.
6. Stay Alert
Listen to your instincts and avoid unsafe areas.
The American Automobile Association (AAA) recommends regular breaks to avoid driver fatigue.
Evidence-Style Support from High-Authority Sources:
Here are research-style statements based on trusted organizations (no URLs, just names):
World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)
Reports show that road trips remain one of the fastest-growing segments of independent travel.
Lonely Planet
Highlights solo road trips as a top trend because they offer flexibility and easy planning.
National Geographic Travel
States that many scenic roads like those in Iceland, Scotland, and New Zealand are among the safest and most beautiful for solo explorers.
Statista Travel Research
Shows a steady rise in solo travel searches, especially among people ages 20–40.
FAQs:
1. What are the safest solo road trip destinations?
Some of the safest routes include Iceland’s Ring Road, Canada’s Icefields Parkway, Scotland’s North Coast 500, and the Pacific Coast Highway in the USA. These places have good roads, friendly locals, and low crime rates.
2. Is it okay to go on a road trip alone?
Yes. Solo road trips are safe and fun when you plan ahead, check your car, and know the route. Many travelers enjoy the freedom and peaceful experience.
3. What is the best solo road trip for beginners?
The Pacific Coast Highway in California is great for beginners because it has clear signs, many rest stops, and easy driving conditions.
4. What should I pack for a solo road trip?
Pack snacks, water, a phone charger, maps, first-aid kit, flashlight, warm clothes, and basic car tools. Safety items are very important.
5. How far should I drive each day on a solo trip?
Most travelers drive 3–5 hours per day to stay rested and safe. Long drives can make you tired.
6. Which country is best for solo road trips?
Iceland, New Zealand, Canada, Scotland, Australia, and the United States are top choices because they have beautiful nature and safe road systems.
7. How do I stay safe during a solo road trip?
Tell someone your route, lock your doors, refuel often, avoid driving late at night, and trust your instincts.
8. Are solo road trips expensive?
It depends on where you go. You can save money by sleeping in budget hotels, camping, cooking your own meals, or choosing shorter routes.
