Little Miss Sunshine campervan

Top 10 iconic movie & TV road trips that still inspire us

Photo courtesy of Searchlight Pictures

Inspiration

Before GPS, apps, and perfectly planned routes, some of the most memorable journeys on screen were defined by chaos, companionship and the vehicle itself.

From classic British comedies to cult road movies, these road trips remind us why travelling with your home behind or beneath has always captured our imagination.

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Rachel Scholes, Content Editor: Motorhomes

Rachel Scholes Content Editor: Motorhomes

Rachel Scholes Content Editor: Motorhomes

With nearly 40 years of experience in the motorhome world, Rachel Scholes has a deep-rooted passion for life on the road, a journey that started when her parents bought her first campervan at the age of five.

Campervan road trip
Photo courtesy of Unsplash

Share your favourite road trip memories

We’d love to hear about your favorite road trip moments – the detours, the playlists, the late-night snacks and the stories that still make you smile.

Whether it was a cross-country adventure or a quick weekend getaway, your memories matter. Share them with us in our forum and relive the journey together with fellow travellers.

 

Carry On Camping – the ultimate British tent holiday

This 1969 comedy turned the British camping holiday into a national talking point. Tent mishaps, larger-than-life characters and chaotic campsite antics made camping a symbol of fun, freedom and hilarity.

Carry On Camping
Photo courtesy of The Rank Organisation
Max and Paddy's Road to Nowhere
Photo courtesy of Channel 4

Max & Paddy’s Road to Nowhere – motorhomes on a mission

The Phoenix Nights duo leave clubland behind and traverse Britain in their motorhome, Easy Rider. It’s a hilarious reflection of freedom on four wheels and the unpredictability of road travel.

Little Miss Sunshine – the family campervan journey

This bright yellow Volkswagen campervan carries a dysfunctional family across the US. Along the way, the campervan becomes both transport and emotional centre, showing that real journeys happen in-between stops.

Little Miss Sunshine
Photo courtesy of Searchlight Pictures
Nuts In May
Photo courtesy of BBC

Nuts in May – camping chaos and comedy

Mike Leigh’s classic BBC play follows a couple’s meticulously planned Dorset camping trip, which unravels thanks to fellow campers who refuse to follow the rules. Awkward, funny and painfully familiar, it captures the essence of campsite life.

The Trip – culinary road trips across Britain

Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon tour the UK in a convertible, exploring restaurants while engaging in witty banter. This road trip blends comedy, scenic landscapes and gastronomic delight.

The Trip tv series
Photo courtesy of BBC / Revolution Films
The Inbetweeners movie
Photo courtesy of Film4 / Bwark Productions / Young Films

The Inbetweeners Movie – teen escapades abroad

Caravanning and campervans take a back seat in this cult teen comedy, but the road trip chaos abroad perfectly captures friendship, mishaps and the thrill of first-time independence.

Long Way Round – motorbiking through continents

Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman embark on a 19,000-mile motorcycle adventure across Europe, Asia and North America. This epic journey combines adventure, cultural exploration and real-life challenges.

Long Way Round
Photo courtesy of Elixir Films / Image Wizard Television Ltd.
Thelma & Louise
Photo courtesy of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer / Pathé Entertainment / Percy Main Productions / Star Partners III Ltd.

Thelma & Louise – female road trip freedom

The classic American film showcases a transformative road journey in a convertible, balancing thrilling adventure with powerful character growth and iconic landscapes.

On the Road – literary adventure across the USA

Based on Jack Kerouac’s novel, this road trip through mid-century America epitomises freedom, self-discovery and the unpredictability of life on the road.

On The Road
Photo courtesy of American Zoetrope / mk2 / Film4 / France Télévisions / Canal+ / Ciné+ / France 2 Cinéma / Vanguard Films
On The Road
Photo courtesy of Paramount Vantage / River Road Entertainment / Square One C.I.H / Linson Film

Into the Wild – solitary journey and connection with nature

Christopher McCandless’s journey across America in search of adventure and meaning is a contemplative, breathtaking road trip that resonates with both travellers and introspective viewers alike.

Explore our magazines

Enjoy expert tech help, travel and campsite inspiration, buying advice, reviews, and more with our best-selling magazines and guides.

 

 

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Buying Your Perfect Motorhome

Buying Your Perfect Motorhome

Buying Your Perfect Motorhome is the ultimate guide to turn your motorhome adventure into reality. From models starting at £20k to luxury options, layouts, finance, insurance, and a dealer directory, it has everything you need to find your dream motorhome.

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MMM magazine

MMM magazine

MMM is the UK’s best-selling motorhome magazine and your key to unforgettable trips, both in the UK and overseas. Packed with expert reviews, advice and maintenance tips to help you make the best choices and keep your motorhome roadworthy.

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