Have you ever embarked on a road trip and found yourself searching for a place to stay that’s not just a standard hotel room? If so, you’re in luck because I’ve got this list of really cool unique road trip accommodations and destinations that you should try out. This would mean that when planning your road trip itineraries and routes, they should be outlined in a way that you can visit these destinations with these unique accommodations that you could possibly try out.
A road trip is meant to be a long journey on the road taken for leisure or vacation, usually by car and this is one thing I love to indulge in. However, to spice up the whole adventure, I love to explore unique road trip accommodations, instead of conventional lodges. So each time I hit the open road and go on a journey, I am always on the lookout to discover the most unusual and unforgettable places to stay while on the road. From treehouses to yurts, I’ve got you covered on all the most unique road trip accommodations you need to know about and try out on your next road trip.
Read also 17 Thrilling Gift Ideas for Road Trip Lovers
Unique Accommodations
Here are the most unique road trip accommodations you can try out on your next trip. With the help of some road trip apps and tools, locating these unique shelters on your routes will not be hard at all.
Treehouses
Treehouses are structures built among trees or elevated on poles and provide a unique and rustic form of accommodation. They offer a connection with nature and a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. They can range from simple, basic structures to luxury treehouses equipped with all the amenities.
Some popular treehouse accommodations include The Treehouse at the Mohicans in Ohio, The Redwoods Treehouse in New Zealand, and The HemLoft in Canada.
Pros
- Close connection with nature and the environment
- Unique and rustic form of accommodation
- Peaceful and quiet retreat
- Often eco-friendly
Cons
- Limited access to amenities and comforts of a traditional hotel or resort
- May not be suitable for those who are afraid of heights
- Limited space and privacy
Yurts
Yurts are circular, portable, and easily assembled structures traditionally used by nomadic people in Central Asia. Today, they are a popular form of eco-friendly and sustainable accommodation that offers a unique and adventurous experience. They are equipped with comfortable furnishings and can be used for camping, glamping, or as a guest room in a bed and breakfast. Some popular yurt accommodations include The Yurts at Mount Rainier National Park in Washington, The Yurts at Smith Rock State Park in Oregon, and The Yurts at The Red River Gorge in Kentucky.
Pros
- Eco-friendly and sustainable
- Unique and adventurous form of accommodation
- Often equipped with comfortable furnishings
- Portable and easily assembled
Cons
- Limited access to amenities and comforts of a traditional hotel or resort
- May not be suitable for those who are uncomfortable with camping or basic accommodations
- Limited space and privacy
Vintage Trailers
Vintage trailers are restored or retrofitted recreational vehicles (RVs) from the mid-20th century that provide a unique form of accommodation. They offer a blend of modern comforts and retro charm that can transport guests back in time. They are equipped with all the amenities of a home and are perfect for those who love vintage style, nostalgia, and road trips. Some popular vintage trailer accommodations include The Trailer Park at El Cosmico in Texas, The Vintage Trailer Park in Joshua Tree National Park, and The Trailer Park at The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk in California.
Pros
- Unique and retro form of accommodation
- Equipped with all the amenities of a home
- Provides a blend of modern comforts and retro charm
- Perfect for those who love vintage style and nostalgia
Cons
- Limited access to amenities and comforts of a traditional hotel or resort
- May not be suitable for those who are uncomfortable with small spaces
- May require more maintenance and upkeep than a traditional hotel or resort.
Houseboats
Houseboats are floating homes that provide a unique and peaceful form of accommodation. They offer a chance to live on the water and experience a slower pace of life. They can be rented or owned and can range from basic, simple boats to luxury floating homes equipped with all the amenities. Some popular houseboat accommodations include The Houseboat Rentals in Amsterdam, The Houseboats at Lake Powell in Arizona, and The Houseboats at Alleppey in India.
Pros
- Unique and peaceful form of accommodation
- Living on the water
- Slow-paced lifestyle
- Often equipped with all the amenities of a home
Cons
- Limited access to amenities and comforts of a traditional hotel or resort
- May require more maintenance and upkeep than a traditional hotel or resort
- Limited space and privacy
Glamping Tents
Glamping tents are luxurious tents that provide a unique form of camping accommodation. They offer all the comforts of a hotel or resort with the rustic charm of camping. They are often equipped with comfortable furnishings, and private bathrooms, and are perfect for those who love the great outdoors but prefer not to rough it. Some popular glamping tent accommodations include The Glamping Tents at Under Canvas in Montana, The Glamping Tents at The Resort at Paws Up in Montana, and The Glamping Tents at AutoCamp in California.
Pros
- Unique and rustic form of accommodation
- Equipped with all the comforts of a hotel or resort
- Perfect for those who love the great outdoors but prefer not to rough it
- Often equipped with comfortable furnishings and private bathrooms
Cons
- Limited access to amenities and comforts of a traditional hotel or resort
- May not be suitable for those who are uncomfortable with camping or basic accommodations
- May require more maintenance and upkeep than a traditional hotel or resort
Earthships
Earthships are sustainable homes that are built from natural and recycled materials. They are designed to be self-sufficient and energy-efficient, using techniques such as passive solar heating and cooling, water catchment and recycling, and composting toilets. Earthships provide a unique and eco-friendly form of accommodation and a chance to live in harmony with nature. Some popular earthship accommodations include The Earthship Biotecture in Taos, New Mexico, The Earthship Rentals in New South Wales, Australia, and The Earthship Community in Portugal.
Pros
- Eco-friendly and sustainable
- A unique form of accommodation
- Self-sufficient and energy-efficient
- Living in harmony with nature
Cons
- Limited access to amenities and comforts of a traditional hotel or resort
- May not be suitable for those who are uncomfortable with basic or eco-friendly accommodations
- May require more maintenance and upkeep than a traditional hotel or resort
Benefits of Unique Accommodations
If you are wondering why you should try out unique road trip accommodations on your next trip, here are some of the many reasons you should go ahead with this adventure.
Experience Nature in a Different Way
Unique accommodations provide an opportunity to experience nature in a different way than what you may be used to. For example, staying in a treehouse offers a chance to live amongst the trees, while a houseboat provides a peaceful way to live on the water. These accommodations give you a unique perspective and connection to the natural world that is not possible in a traditional hotel.
Also read The Perfect Breakfast Ideas For Road Trips For a Healthy Diet
Explore New Forms of Eco-Friendly Living
Many unique accommodations are designed with sustainability in mind, offering the chance to explore new forms of eco-friendly living. For example, Earthships are built from recycled and natural materials and are designed to be self-sufficient and energy-efficient. Staying in these types of accommodations gives you the opportunity to learn more about sustainable living and reduce your impact on the environment.
Enjoy a More Unconventional Vacation
Unique accommodations offer a chance to break away from the typical hotel experience and enjoy a more unconventional vacation. For example, glamping tents offer the rustic charm of camping but with all the comforts of a hotel, while vintage trailers provide a unique and quirky way to travel. These accommodations provide a change of pace and a fun way to shake things up on your next vacation.
Create Lasting Memories
Unique accommodations provide the opportunity to create lasting memories. Whether it’s your first time staying in a treehouse or exploring a new form of eco-friendly living, these experiences will stay with you long after your vacation has ended. These unique and memorable experiences can be a great way to bond with friends and family and create memories that will last a lifetime.
A Chance to Break Away From the Typical Hotel Experience
Unique accommodations offer the chance to break away from the typical hotel experience and enjoy something different. They provide a change of pace and a new way of experiencing nature, the great outdoors, and sustainable living. Whether you are looking for a peaceful and calming vacation or a fun and adventurous experience, unique accommodations are a great way to break away from the usual and create a unique and unforgettable experience.
How to Choose the Right Accommodation
When choosing the right unique road trip accommodations, you must consider a few key factors and do your research to ensure you have the best experience possible. Here are the things to keep in mind.
Budget
It’s important to consider your budget when choosing a unique accommodation. While some accommodations may offer luxurious amenities and breathtaking views, they can also come with a higher price tag. Consider what is most important to you, and how much you are willing to spend, to ensure you find the right accommodation for you.
Location
Consider the location of the accommodation and what you would like to be close to. If you want to be in a more remote location, then a treehouse or a yurt might be a good option. If you would like to be closer to town, then a vintage trailer or a houseboat might be a better fit.
Amenities
Consider what amenities are important to you and whether or not the accommodation you are considering offers those amenities. Do you need a full kitchen, a bathroom, or a comfortable bed? Make sure the accommodation you choose meets your needs.
Comfort
Comfort is key, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time in your accommodation. Consider the type of bedding, heating, and air conditioning available to ensure you are comfortable during your stay.
Online Reviews
Read online reviews to see what other travelers have to say about the accommodation. Pay attention to both positive and negative reviews to get a better understanding of what you can expect.
Personal Recommendations
Ask friends and family for their recommendations. Personal recommendations can be a great way to get an honest and unbiased perspective on a particular accommodation.
Photos and Videos
Take a look at photos and videos of the accommodation to get a better sense of what it looks like and what you can expect. This can also help you determine if the accommodation is the right fit for you.
Websites and Resources to Help in Booking Unique Accommodations
Here are some websites and resources you could use to discover more unique accommodations to try out around you on your next road trip.
Airbnb
Airbnb offers a wide range of unique accommodations, from treehouses to yurts, in different parts of the world.
Glamping Hub
Glamping Hut specializes in luxury camping or “glamping” experiences, with unique accommodations such as tents, cabins, and even igloos.
Booking.com
Booking.com offers a variety of unique accommodations, including boutique hotels, castles, and even houseboats.
Hipcamp
Hipcamp is a platform that connects travelers with unique camping experiences, including stays on private farms, ranches, vineyards, and more.
Instagram is a large social media platform that offers a wealth of information on unique accommodations and road trips, with hashtags such as #vanlife and #glamping.
Facebook is a social media platform that includes a variety of travel and adventure communities, where travelers can share their experiences and recommendations for unique accommodations.
Reddit is a large online forum that includes a variety of travel-related subreddits, where travelers can share their experiences and find information on unique accommodations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, unique road trip accommodations provide a fresh and exciting way to travel. These unique accommodations offer a fun and memorable experience for travelers who are looking for something different.
From treehouses to yurts, whether you are interested in a peaceful floating home, a luxurious camping experience, or a sustainable and eco-friendly way to go on a road trip, there is something for everyone in the world of unique road trip accommodations looking to add a twist to their road trip experiences. Not only do they offer a change of pace from traditional hotel stays, but they also provide an opportunity to immerse oneself in nature and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Each one offers its own pros and cons, but they all provide a unique and adventurous experience that will stay with you long after your road trip has ended.
It is our final thoughts that trying new things and stepping outside of one’s comfort zone can lead to creating some of the most cherished memories. So, we encourage all travelers to consider a unique accommodation for their next road trip.