Life on the road can be one big crazy adventure, and something that millions travellers hope to do at least once in their life. Whether it be for the luscious scenery, the people you meet or the freedom away from the grind, one things for certain, the road is unpredictable and I mean that in the best way possible.

Considering the world is lined with over 18 million kilometres of paved roads, how many of them are actually worth the drive? Call me biased, but our road trips and that of our neighbours New Zealand have to be some of the best on the planet. And of course, we have to mention USA when talking about road trips.

Kennedy Ranges, Gascoyne, Western Australia

Australia

Road trips are synonymous with the Australian holidays. It’s one of this countries biggest pastimes and nothing beats loading up the car rolling the windows down and taking in fresh air amid the wide open space. The Land Down Under is known for its rugged terrains and beautiful coastlines. But there are also mount ranges, lush rain forests, tall timber national parks, unforgettable sandy beaches, reefs teeming with colourful marine life, wide open spaces and the biggest sky you’re likely to see anywhere and unique wildlife you won’t see anywhere else in the world. While it’s amazing to journey along Victoria’s Great Ocean Road, there’s nothing quite like a 4WD escapade off the beaten track. Just be sure you are prepared with plenty of water, extra fuel, spare tyres, medical kit, food, and blankets. It’s also a good idea to let local authorities know where you are heading and when are you due back. A breakdown in the outback could cost you more than car repairs.

New Zealand

Stunning NZ scenery. Photo from www.thespark.org.nz

The Land of the Long White Cloud is every a dream for every Lord of the Rings fan. Escape the big polluted cities and relish the opportunity to fill your lungs with the crisp, clean, fresh New Zealand air. This is a destination where everyday stresses are quickly forgotten as the stunning scenery captures your full attention; nothing can quite prepare you for the sheer beauty of a land time has forgot. A drive through the mountainous planes towards the centre of Middle Earth, Milford Sounds, will have your mind’s camera in complete overdrive as you pass mighty cliffs, pristine snow-capped summits, cascading waterfalls and lush greenery.

America

The ol’ USA has a rich history waiting to be unearthed if you take the time to seek it out. Roar through the winding coastlines with the top down on your convertible or jump into a van and head deep down into the south for an unforgettable journey. Sure, Route 66 is one of more romanticised, but there’s a myriad of paths that offer a remarkable view of America. Take on the legendary Highway 61 (otherwise known as the Blues Highway); a route that runs out of Memphis and along the Mississippi River. What’s so special about this drive? This area is deeply rooted with a genre of music known as the Delta Blues. Follow this road if you want to immerse yourself in music culture and history at every turn – from soul and gospel to R&B.

This is by no means an exhaustive list of all the awe-inspiring countries worthy of a road-trip. From the mirrored Salt Lakes in Bolivia, the sand dunes of the Gobi Desert, and The Golden Road to Samarkand, Uzbekistan – the world is your oyster. Don’t forget, you are going to need a sweet ride to complete your trip so check out Jaguar.com.au for a sneaky peek on the latest dream cars.

Photo from the rough guides.com