It’s late afternoon and you’re cruising down a winding mountain road in your ’75 F-250, windows down, listening to that 360 FE rumble off the canyon walls. Sounds a little bit like freedom. Like the sound you’ve always wanted to hear. You think that sounds cliche? Try it then get back to me. These road trip routes for classic cars and trucks will make that trip you’ve always wanted to take so much easier!
You can see it, the sun’s setting behind some ridiculous mountain range, and you’re pulling into a campsite where you’ll sleep in the truck bed under more stars than you knew existed.
This isn’t Instagram fantasy—it’s what guys with old trucks do every weekend while you’re still “getting yours ready” or “waiting for the right time.”
And trust me, I know, I was one of those guys that always thought he had to have the perfect setup before I got out there.
Here’s what nobody tells you: scenic routes like Route 66 or the Pacific Coast Highway offer landscapes and history that interstates just can’t match and you don’t have to wait to go see them!
The real magic happens when you stop overthinking it and just go.
Your Ford Highboy, beat-up Bronco, or half-finished project truck isn’t just for getting around (or sitting around)—it’s your excuse to finally take that trip you’ve been talking about for three years.
Most people keep making excuses: “It’s not reliable enough,” “I need to fix this first,” “Maybe next summer.”
What if those are just excuses?
Everything you need for epic classic truck road trips made simple.
Get Essential Road Trip Gear✅ Best routes for old trucks – Route 66, Blue Ridge Parkway, PCH
✅ Pre-trip prep checklist – 30-day maintenance timeline
✅ Emergency gear list – Tools, fluids, and backup plans
✅ Camping setup ideas – Truck bed adventures and stargazing
✅ Anxiety-busting tips – Stop making excuses and just go
Why Your Classic Vehicle Is Actually Perfect for Road Trips
People Give You Space (And Want to Talk About Your Ride)
Here’s something you’ll notice immediately: other drivers actually give classic vehicles plenty of room. They’re not trying to get around you—they want to check out your truck. Every gas stop turns into a car show. Old guys will walk over and tell you about the ’72 Highboy they used to have. Kids will ask if they can sit in it.
Your truck or Bronco isn’t just transportation—it’s a conversation starter everywhere you go.
They’re More Reliable Than You Think
Look, let’s be honest about something: properly maintained old trucks are actually pretty reliable. Yeah, they’re not going to be as reliable as a new Toyota, but they’re also not going to leave you stranded if you do your homework.
The real issue isn’t reliability—it’s that you’re scared something will go wrong. That’s normal. But here’s the thing: proper preparation beats perfection every time.
Your truck doesn’t need to be show-quality to hit the road. It just needs to be road-worthy. Big difference.
Don’t Have a Classic Yet? Start Planning Anyway
Maybe you’re still shopping—scrolling through Craigslist at 2 AM looking at project trucks, or saving up for something that’s already done. Don’t wait until you buy something to start planning your trip.
Start now. Pick a route. Research campgrounds. Figure out what gear you’ll need. The planning process is actually pretty motivating, and you’ll be ready to roll as soon as you find the right truck.
The Best Road Trip Routes (That Won’t Kill Your Old Truck)
What’s the best road trip for classic trucks?
- Route 66 (Arizona) – Easy pace, tons of history, truck-friendly stops
- Blue Ridge Parkway – Scenic mountain views, 45 mph max speed
- Pacific Coast Highway – Epic ocean views, some challenging curves
- Tail of the Dragon – 318 curves in 11 miles, not for beginners
Route 66: Yeah, It’s Touristy, But It’s Worth It
Distance: 2,448 miles
Best Section for First-Timers: Arizona portion (Holbrook to Oatman)
Why It Works: The whole route is set up for old cars. Plenty of gas stations, lots of places to stop, and the speed limits are reasonable. Plus, your truck fits right in with all the vintage motels and diners.
Don’t Miss:
- Holbrook, AZ: Sleep in a concrete tepee at the Wigwam Motel (seriously)
- Seligman, AZ: Grab a burger at the Snow Cap Drive-In—it’s been there since 1953
- Oatman, AZ: Wild burros walk right up to your truck. Bring carrots.
Truck Tip: The slower pace and frequent stops are perfect if your truck prefers steady cruising over high-speed runs.
Blue Ridge Parkway: The Easy Button for Old Truck Road Trips
Distance: 469 miles
Best Time: October (if you like crowds) or late September (if you don’t)
Why Old Trucks Love It: The speed limit tops out at 45 mph, there’s a pull-off every few miles, and the grades are gentle enough that you won’t have to worry about overheating.
Perfect for:
- First-time road trippers who want to build confidence
- Owners of classic cars with bench seats who want comfortable cruising
- Anyone who wants to take about 500 photos of their truck with mountain backgrounds
Real Talk: This is probably the most forgiving road trip you can take in an old truck. If something goes wrong, you’re never more than 20 minutes from a town with a parts store.
Pacific Coast Highway: California’s Most Beautiful Drive
Distance: 655 miles (complete California coastline)
Best Section: Big Sur to Monterey (90 miles)
Challenge Level: Intermediate (some challenging curves)
Why It’s Worth It: The ocean views are unreal, and your truck or Bronco is going to look amazing in photos with the Pacific in the background. Fair warning though—the curves through Big Sur will test your driving skills, but that’s half the fun.
Angeles Crest Highway: LA’s Best Kept Secret
Distance: 66 miles
Location: San Gabriel Mountains above Los Angeles
What You’ll Get: High altitude driving with tight corners and some really fun straightaways. Local guys have been running this road for decades—there’s a reason why.
Tail of the Dragon: Only for the Brave (Or Crazy)
Distance: 11 miles
Curves: 318
Real Talk: This isn’t a scenic drive. There’s nothing to see except the road ahead and the next curve coming at you. No gas stations, no bathrooms, no bail-out options. It’s just you and 318 curves that’ll either make you feel like a driving god or scare you back to the interstate.
Only Attempt If: Your classic vehicle has been recently serviced, you’re comfortable with challenging driving, and you want the ultimate driving experience.
Planning Your Classic Truck Road Trip Routes: Stop Overthinking It
How do I plan a road trip in an old truck?
- Pick a route that matches your car or truck’s capabilities
- Plan maintenance 30 days before leaving
- Pack emergency gear (tools, fluids, spare parts)
- Book first night’s stay to commit to the trip
- Join online groups for your specific truck model
Stage 1: Getting Over Your Excuses
“What if my truck breaks down?” Listen, this is the number one excuse people use to never leave their driveway. Yeah, old trucks can break down. So can new cars. The difference is you can probably fix your truck with a screwdriver and some bailing wire.
Your Real Battle Plan:
- Find a decent mechanic along your route (call ahead, ask about parts availability)
- Join a Facebook group for your truck (someone’s always driving through and can help)
- Throw a decent tool kit in the back
- Get AAA Plus (they’ll tow you 100 miles, which is usually enough)
“My truck isn’t nice enough for a road trip.” Dude, stop. Some of the best road trip trucks I’ve seen are held together with primer and good intentions. It’s not about having a show truck—it’s about having a truck that runs and stops when you want it to.
Stage 2: Pre-Trip Preparation That Actually Matters
The 30-Day Countdown:
30 Days Before:
- Book accommodations (classic car-friendly hotels love these guests)
- Research camping spots if you’re truck camping
- Order any needed parts for maintenance
14 Days Before:
- Complete your maintenance checklist
- Test all systems with a 50-mile drive
- Pack your emergency kit
3 Days Before:
- Check weather forecasts
- Confirm all reservations
- Load your vehicle with gear
Best Road Trip Gear for Old Truck Reliability
What gear do I need for a classic truck road trip?
- Socket set and basic wrenches – Not a 200-piece kit
- Spare belt and radiator hoses – The stuff that actually breaks
- Coolant and oil – One gallon and one quart minimum
- Tire plug kit and 12V compressor – For the inevitable flat
- Jump box – Because your alternator is older than most people
Comfort Stuff That’s Worth It:
- Good cooler with actual ice
- Paper maps (your phone will die, guaranteed)
- Portable phone charger
- First aid kit
- Cash for small-town gas stations
Camera Gear:
- Any camera that takes decent photos
- Extra batteries/memory cards
- Instant camera for gas station conversations
The Best Camping Spots for Classic Vehicle Owners
Why Camping Makes Road Trips Actually Fun
Camping turns your truck into more than transportation—it becomes your basecamp. Plus, truck bed camping setups are way cooler than any hotel room.
Top Classic Truck-Friendly Campgrounds:
- Moab, Utah: Perfect for lifted trucks and Broncos
- Glacier National Park: Mountain scenery that makes your truck look tiny
- Joshua Tree National Park: Desert camping with zero light pollution
- Great Smoky Mountains: Easy access from most East Coast routes
Pro Tip: State parks built in the ’60s and ’70s have camping spots sized for the vehicles of that era—perfect for your truck.
Make It a Real Adventure
Turn your camping trip into something special with a truck bed date night setup. String lights, good bedding, and stargazing gear beat any fancy hotel.
Want to eat like kings around the campfire? Try these campfire cone recipes—they’re way better than s’mores and easier to make.
What to Do When You Don’t Own a Classic Yet (Or Your Project Isn’t Done)
Can I take a road trip without owning a classic truck?
- Rent a classic from specialty rental companies
- Join a truck club and ride along on group trips
- Buy a driver-quality truck instead of waiting for perfection
- Start planning now while shopping for the right vehicle
Keep Shopping, But Start Planning
Step 1: Pick a route that gets you excited and research the hell out of it
Step 2: Set up alerts on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and Bring a Trailer
Step 3: Start buying tools and camping gear (you’ll need it eventually)
Step 4: Hit up local cruise-ins and make friends with other truck guys
Consider These Options
Rent One: Some companies rent classics for road trips (expensive but worth it for a once-in-a-lifetime trip)
Tag Along: Join a classic truck club and ride shotgun on someone else’s adventure
Buy a Driver: You don’t need a perfect truck. You need one that runs and drives safely
As one Bronco owner told me: “I spent three years ‘getting ready’ to take my truck on a road trip. Finally realized I was just making excuses. Took it to Moab with a little too worn tires and a sketchy transmission. Best weekend of my life.”
Overcoming Road Trip Anxiety and Actually Taking the Trip
How do I overcome anxiety about road trips in old trucks?
- Start with short trips within 200 miles of home
- Travel with experienced friends on your first major trip
- Plan for common problems (breakdowns, getting lost, running out of money)
- Join online communities for support and advice
- Remember: mechanical issues are adventures, not failures
The Psychology of Taking Action
The fear of living with regrets forces many people to take chances they might otherwise avoid. In five years, will you regret not taking that road trip, or will you regret not having a garage full of untouched classic vehicles?
Practical Anxiety Management
Before You Leave:
- Plan ahead for common scenarios like running out of money (bring a credit card), getting lost (carry paper maps), or getting sick (purchase travel insurance)
- Start with shorter trips to build confidence
- Travel with experienced classic car friends on your first major trip
On the Road:
- Take breaks every 2 hours
- Use meditation apps if anxiety hits
- Remember: mechanical issues are part of the adventure, not failures
Building Your Confidence
Start Small: Plan a weekend trip within 200 miles of home Document Everything: Share your experiences on social media or blogs Connect with Communities: Join classic vehicle forums and Facebook groups Learn from Others: Read about other people’s adventures for inspiration and practical tips
Stop Making Excuses and Just Go Already
Here’s the Truth Nobody Tells You
The hardest part isn’t fixing your truck, planning the perfect route, or even finding time off work. The hardest part is admitting you’ve been making excuses.
Your Highboy, Bronco, or half-finished F-100 sitting in the garage isn’t getting any younger. Neither are you.
Take Action This Week (Not “Someday”)
- Pick one route from this list that doesn’t scare you
- Set a date within the next 3 months (not 6, not next year)
- Book a campground or hotel for the first night
- Tell someone who’ll give you crap if you back out
- Do the basic maintenance your truck actually needs (not everything you think it needs)
The Real Question
Five years from now, do you want to be bragging about how your ’72 Bronco tackled the Tail of the Dragon—or still talking about that trip you almost took?
Ready to stop making excuses? Check out our Ford Highboy identification guide to make sure you know what you’ve got, or read about basic truck camping setups to get started.
The road’s not getting any shorter. Stop overthinking it and go.
Got a road trip story or photos of your classic truck on the road? Send them to us at Get Vintage Vehicles—we love featuring real trucks doing real adventures.
