The best vehicle to rent for a road trip

Hitting the open road? Find out what's the best vehicle (compact car, SUV or minibus) to rent for a road trip. 

If you're travelling on your own, or in a small group, a compact car makes for a practical and affordable option. It's a budget-friendly choice if you're travelling with minimal luggage, although you may be surprised just how much you can fit in a small hatchback if you get creative with packing. 

Compact cars usually offer good fuel efficiency and are easy to manoeuvre. This makes them great for both long-distance and urban driving – so whether you're travelling through crowded cities or crossing wide open roads, compact cars will perform well.

And while compact cars won't give you as much room as larger vehicles, there's often a surprising amount of legroom in many modern compact cars. 

But make sure you factor in terrain. While compact cars are great for driving on paved roads and motorways, they might be unsuitable for rough or unpaved terrain. If you're going on a trip that requires off-road driving or navigating challenging conditions, you might want to think about a vehicle that has better ground clearance or offers all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) capabilities.

Hire a compact car from MVH Rental.

SUV

SUVs are versatile cars that offer loads of space for passengers and luggage. If you're taking multiple passengers, you'll have room for a comfortable and relaxed journey for all your friends or family. You should also have space for any extra equipment you might be taking. 

While they aren't as fuel-efficient as compacts, they often deliver decent fuel efficiency. And because many come with AWD or 4WD capabilities, they can handle both motorways and off-road driving well.

Most modern SUVs have a range of features that will make your journey more comfortable. Think adjustable seats, climate control, connectivity options and entertainment systems – a huge bonus if you're travelling with small children. 

SUVs are also very safe vehicles to drive. They're often equipped with adaptive cruise control, emergency braking and lane departure warning – and their higher vantage point offers better visibility on the road.

The SUV is a good all-rounder for longer journeys and a great option for a road trip. 

Explore SUV hire options from MVH Rental.

Minibus

If you are travelling with a large group or with a large amount of equipment, you might want to consider using a minibus.

Depending on the size of the vehicle, you should be able to comfortably seat at least 15 people. Plus, the room for storage will mean you can bring everything along for your trip without having to take more than one vehicle or think about adding rooftop carriers or trailers. 

Minibuses offer a comfortable trip for drivers and passengers. Many boast adjustable seats, air conditioning, ample legroom and entertainment. They offer unmatched convenience for passengers of all ages and mobility levels, with large doors and steps. They are generally very safe vehicles to drive, often offering stability control systems and cruise control options. 

It's worth keeping in mind that minibuses can be tricky to manoeuvre if you're inexperienced. Care must be taken when driving a minibus, taking into consideration their size when on the road or when parking.

They're not as suitable for off-road driving or challenging road conditions as SUVs. They're also not as fuel efficient as smaller vehicles, so this should also be taken into account when budgeting for your trip. 

Please also note that you will need to be covered on your driving licence for a Category D1 vehicle.

Hire a minibus from MVH Rental.

Travel tips 

A bit of planning is essential for longer journeys. Here are a few tips to make sure you have a smooth and enjoyable trip:

1. Plan your route: make sure you know your destination and plan your route in advance. This can be easily done using GPS navigation or travelling apps – but make sure you have a backup plan in case technology fails. 
2. Check your vehicle: always check your vehicle before you hit the road. Check the tyres, brakes, fluids, lights and windscreen wipers. If you're renting a car, make a note of the overall condition and take photos if necessary. Make sure there are basic tools and a spare tyre in case you get a flat. 
3. Take breaks: driving when tired is dangerous. Make sure to plan regular breaks in a safe location on longer drives.
4. Stay alert: make sure you don't get distracted by using your phone while driving. This can be extremely dangerous as well as being illegal. Pay attention to road signs, traffic signals and other vehicles on the road at all times. 

About MVH Rental

If you're planning your next road trip adventure, look no further than MVH Rental.

Number one for affordable car hire in Sunderland, Newcastle and Gateshead, MVH offers a wide selection of modern and impeccably maintained cars, vans and minibuses to choose from.

Renting couldn't be simpler, with quick quotes and no hidden costs. Our professional, flexible and easy-going staff will help you with any queries you might have, so get in touch today.