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One of my favorite ways to relax at the campground is kicking back in a hammock with a great book. Books enhance our RV life in many ways. They provide history about destinations visited, inspire new trips and provide an escape from the realities of RV living. Here are my top recommendations for road trip books that will enhance or inspire your travels.
Contents
American Wolf: A True Story of Survival and Obsession in the West
American Wolf is a riveting story about the reintroduction and plight of wolves in Yellowstone National Park. The book details the lives of individual wolves and the people who love them. Reading this book inspired us to stop at Yellowstone in hopes of seeing a wolf firsthand. We successfully spotted multiple wolves during our visit to the Lamar Valley.
Grounded: A Down to Earth Journey Around the World
Grounded is the ultimate road trip story recounting the author’s circumnavigation of the globe without ever leaving the ground. Seth Stevenson and his girlfriend took a trip around the world using boats, trains, cars and bikes. This humorous account of their trip, reminded me to slow down and enjoy the ride not just the destination. Grounded is also a great read for anyone traveling for an extended period with their spouse.
The Emerald Mile
The Emerald Mile tells the true story of a 1983 attempt to record the fastest ever trip down the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. The book is full of heart pounding adventure as the characters race down the river in wooden “dory” boat. But, the detailed histories of the river and the Glen Canyon Dam are what makes this the best road trip book to read before visiting the Grand Canyon.
A Walk in the Woods
In A Walk in the Woods, Bill Bryson recounts his attempt to hike the Appalachian Trail. He brings his out of shape friend, Stephen, along for the journey. The book includes hilarious antidotes from their hike, as well as, informative history about the Appalachian Trail. It is one of best road trip books because it will inspire you to hit the trails, while making you laugh at the same time.
In a Sunburned Country
Another Bill Bryson book, In a Sunburned Country, details The author’s travels through Australia. Despite all the dangers presented (snakes, sharks, deserts, etc.), Bryson finds much to love about this foreign land. Readers get to ride along on every step of his journey and will be inspired to explore new places themselves. As with any of Bryson’s books, the journey will include a good dose of humor.
Travels with Charley in Search of America
In Travels with Charley, John Steinbeck takes to the road with a small camper and his French poodle. During his journey to discover America, Steinbeck encounters a variety of people and landscapes across the country. Current road trippers will be inspired to pay more attention to the people they meet along the way. This is one of my favorite travelogues, because I love any road trip that includes a dog.
Oh, the Places You’ll Go!
Finally, Oh, the Places You’ll Go! is a great reminder of the reasons we should explore the world. While this is definitely the best road trip book for young kids, it is also a worthwhile read for adults. This Dr. Seuss classic always inspires me to explore more and drive further. “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.”
Have other recommendations for great travel reads? Leave your list of best road trip books in the comments.
If you are not much of reader, check out my article on how to get TV from the road.