Monday, May 24, 2021

10 Recommended Travel Tripods

 


The travel tripod conundrum is a cruel reality of physics and practicality. The larger and heavier a tripod is, the steadier it will hold a camera. The larger and heavier a tripod is, the less likely you will ever want to carry it around or take it on a trip. Why are we left with a photographic reality like that which makes the tastiest food bad for you?

Tripods come in all shapes, weights, heights, and styles. If you are new to the world of tripods, please check out The Tripod Explained article before reading further. Here we are going to recommend travel tripods for the photographer. First, we must ask, “What makes one a ‘travel’ tripod?”

Well, any tripod is a travel tripod if you are willing to travel with it, but some tripods are designed to fold up into a compact package that, in some cases, can fit into a carry-on bag. They are also designed to be lighter than their full-sized counterparts. Usually, they have four or more leg sections, legs that can fold up around the center column, or a center column that drops down between the legs for transport. In general, they do not extend to the same heights as full-sized tripods, so get ready to bend over while shooting. Other than those features, the travel tripod is basically the same as any other three-legged camera support.

I visited the B&H SuperStore and picked the brains of the store’s tripod experts, got hands-on with all of the different options, and have compiled this list of the 12 travel tripods shown here, in price order, with the highest priced (as of press time) first.


1.Gitzo GK1545T Series 1 Traveler Carbon Fiber Tripod with Center Ball Head



Gitzo GK1545T Series 1 Traveler Carbon Fiber Tripod with Center Ball Head



Well, it really doesn’t get any better than the Gitzo GK1545T Series 1 Traveler Tripod and Center Ball Head, travel tripod and Center Ball Head, and the price would certainly indicate that. The entire design of the Gitzo travel tripod is based on maximizing its thin profile. The odd-shaped head is purposely curvy to accommodate the legs when inverted for transport. Gitzo travel tripod legs are narrower than much of the competition, but generally maintain higher load capacities. O-rings seal the top of the twist locks to keep debris out, the legs can be set at one of two angles, and the chassis is made of magnesium. The center ball head is a fine complement to its gorgeous legs and features a separate pan lock knob, screw lock for the Arca-type compatible plate, and a tungsten disulfide coating for silky smooth action. Like Manfrotto, Gitzo sells individual parts for its tripods, so if you wear out a component, it can be replaced.


The slightly higher-priced alternative has slightly larger legs, and a 26-lb capacity; the GT2545T.

Gitzo GK1545T Series 1 Traveler Carbon Fiber Tripod with Center Ball Head

  • Load Capacity: 22 lb
  • Max. Height: 64.4"
  • Min. Height: 12.6"
  • Folded Length: 16.7"
  • Leg Sections: 4
  • Weight: 3.2 lb

2. Manfrotto BeFree GT XPRO Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod with 496 Center Ball Head



Manfrotto BeFree GT XPRO Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod with 496 Center Ball Head



Building on the deserved popularity of the BeFree tripod line, Manfrotto has assembled the flagship version of the BeFree travel tripod in the form of the BeFree GT XPRO Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod with 496 Center Ball Head. A sleek design and paint scheme makes the tripod attractive to the eye, and a new innovative chassis allows the center column to be inserted at 90-degree angles for lateral applications. Backed by Manfrotto’s quality reputation and the ability to replace parts, this tripod will be a companion for years and years of traveling. The tripod has a 22.1-lb load capacity, extends to almost 65" and collapses to 16.9". Low-angle shooting? The removable center column allows you to shoot at a height of 3.5". The M-lock leg twist-locks feel great in the hand.

Manfrotto BeFree GT XPRO Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod with 496 Center Ball Head

  • Load Capacity: 22.1 lb
  • Max. Height: 64.6"
  • Min. Height: 3.5"
  • Folded Length: 16.9"
  • Leg Sections: 4
  • Weight: 3.9 lb

3. Benro FTA28CV1 Travel Angel Series 2 Carbon Fiber Tripod with V1E Ball Head



Benro FTA28CV1 Travel Angel Series 2 Carbon Fiber Tripod with V1E Ball Head


Benro does a nice travel tripod with many full-sized tripod features. The Benro FTA28CV1 Travel Angel Series 2 Carbon Fiber Tripod with V1E Ball Head has a very respectable load capacity of 22 lb, and can easily handle a DSLR or mirrorless setup. The unit has a lot of center-column versatility because the column can be removed and attached to a removable leg to form a monopod. The leg angle lock design is more reminiscent of a full-sized tripod, just smaller. A unique carbon veneer looks very cool. The V1E ball head is Arca-type compatible, has a separate panning lock, coaxial friction adjustment for the main knob, bubble level, and the Benro P&T (pull-and-twist) safety release system to prevent accidental drops of your camera.


Benro FTA28CV1 Travel Angel Series 2 Carbon Fiber Tripod with V1E Ball Head

  • Load Capacity: 22 lb
  • Max. Height: 66.9"
  • Min. Height: 18.7"
  • Folded Length: 24.6"
  • Leg Sections: 4
  • Weight: 4 lb


4. Manfrotto 190Go! Aluminum Tripod Kit with Ball Head



Manfrotto 190go! Aluminum M-Series Tripod with MHXPRO-3W 3-Way Pan/Tilt Head



One look at the Manfrotto 190Go! Aluminum Tripod with MHXPRO-3W 3-Way Pan/Tilt Head and you can tell that the Manfrotto folks spend a good bit of time on design. The 190Go! tripod has been on the market for a while, but that does not keep Manfrotto from incorporating a modern look into its designs. The innovative design of the center column allows it to be rolled quickly to the 90-degreelateral shooting position—very rare for a travel tripod. The leg-angle locks are little pieces of sculpted art, and the twist locks have snazzy red top and bottom accents. This is a good-looking tripod with innovative design attributes.

Manfrotto 190Go! Aluminum Tripod Kit with Ball Head

  • Load Capacity: 13.2 lb
  • Max. Height: 61.4"
  • Min. Height: 2.75"
  • Folded Length: 21.6"
  • Leg Sections: 4
  • Weight: 4.6 lb

5. Sirui T-025SK T-0S Carbon Fiber Tripod with B-00 Ball Head



Sirui T-025SK Carbon Fiber Tripod with B-00 Ball Head





One trip to the Sirui display in the B&H SuperStore and you will see that this is a company dedicated to designing and building travel tripods. The very lightweight (1.8 lb) and compact (12.2") T-025SK T-0S Series Carbon Fiber Tripod and B-00 Ball Head is a fine tool for the traveling photographer with a small DSLR or mirrorless camera. Rare among travel tripods, this Sirui has a 2-section removable center column for low-angle shooting down to 3.1". The twist-lock leg design is straightforward and the overall feel of the unit is that of quality. The cleanly designed head is Arca-type compatible and has a separate pan lock knob.


Sirui T-025SK T-0S Carbon Fiber Tripod with B-00 Ball Head

  • Load Capacity: 13.2 lb
  • Max. Height: 42.5"
  • Min. Height: 3.1"
  • Folded Length: 12.2"
  • Leg Sections: 5
  • Weight: 1.8 lb



6. 3 Legged Thing Corey Aluminum Travel Tripod with AirHed Neo Ball Head


3 Legged Thing Corey Aluminum Travel Tripod with AirHed Neo Ball Head



One thing that many of the 3 Legged Thing tripods feature is load capacities that are much higher than other similarly priced and sized tripods. The Corey Aluminum Travel Tripod with Neo Ball Head has a load capacity of 30 lb, larger than any other tripod on this list, while still packing up to a diminutive length. The Corey is a bit more subdued than other models from 3 Legged Thing, but it still features a bit of blue and orange bling. The leg-angle locks are spring-loaded and accessible even when the legs are folded up around the center column. The shiny blue Neo ball head has an Arca-type-compatible plate, built-in bubble level, and single ball control for simplicity.

3 Legged Thing Corey Aluminum Travel Tripod with AirHed Neo Ball Head

  • Load Capacity: 30 lb
  • Max. Height: 58"
  • Min. Height: 4"
  • Folded Length: 13.7"
  • Leg Sections: 5
  • Weight: 3.4 lb


7. Oben CT-3535 Folding Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod with BE-208T Ball Head



Oben CT-3535 Folding Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod with BE-208T Ball Head


When it comes to versatility, look no further than Oben. You can tell that the company likes packing the maximum number of features into each tripod it markets. Built for mirrorless and small DSLR setups, the Oben AT-3535 Folding Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod and BE-208T Ball Head is no exception. Where do I start? Brought your Oben tripod, but need a monopod or selfie stick? Done. Just unscrew one of the legs. For low-angle shooting, the kit comes with a removable center column and optional included short center column. Also included are retractable spikes, strap, bag, tools, and quick-release plate. The BE-208T head has a separate panning lock, bubble levels, and an Arca-type compatible quick-release plate.

Oben CT-3535 Folding Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod with BE-208T Ball Head

  • Load Capacity: 9 lb
  • Max. Height: 51.6"
  • Min. Height: 8.6"
  • Folded Length: 12"
  • Leg Sections: 5
  • Weight: 2.5 lb

8. MeFOTO RoadTrip Aluminum Travel Tripod Kit


MeFOTO RoadTrip Aluminum Travel Tripod Kit



With 10 color options, the MeFoto Road Trip travel tripod is sure to accessorize your luggage or backpack successfully. The Road Trip has a respectable load capacity suitable for a DSLR rig, and the single foam-cushioned leg can be removed and attached to the center column to form a monopod or selfie stick. MeFoto is specializing in quality travel tripods, and the Road Trip is no exception. The dual-angle leg-angle locks are of the pull tab variety and have a nice feel, as do the two-tone leg twist locks. The ball head has separate panning and friction adjustments, as well as a bull’s-eye bubble level and Arca-type-compatible quick-release plate.


MeFOTO RoadTrip Aluminum Travel Tripod Kit

  • Load Capacity: 17.6 lb
  • Max. Height: 61.6"
  • Min. Height: 15.4"
  • Folded Length: 15.4"
  • Leg Sections: 5
  • Weight: 3.6 lb


9. Oben AT-3565 Folding Aluminum Travel Tripod with BZ-217T Ball Head


Oben AT-3565 Folding Aluminum Travel Tripod with BZ-217T Ball Head



Exactly like the Oben tripod mentioned above, the Oben AT-3565 Folding Aluminum Travel Tripod and BZ-217T Ball Head is supremely versatile but has a larger load capacity. The AT-3656 comes with a removable leg for monopod/selfie stick uses, retractable spikes, removable center column, short center column, strap, bag, tools, and quick-release plate. An advantageous 20-lb load capacity means that you can mount up a heavy DSLR and zoom lens. The BZ-217T head has adjustable friction semi-coaxially mounted on the main knob, a separate panning lock, bubble levels, and an Arca-type compatible quick-release plate.

Oben AT-3565 Folding Aluminum Travel Tripod with BC-217T Ball Head

  • Load Capacity: 20 lb
  • Max. Height: 61.8"
  • Min. Height: 9.1"
  • Folded Length: 6.1"
  • Leg Sections: 5
  • Weight: 3.7 lb

10. Davis & Sanford TR654C-36 Traverse Carbon Fiber Grounder Tripod with Ball Head




Davis & Sanford TR654C-36 Traverse Carbon Fiber Grounder Tripod with Ball Head





Featuring a load capacity a bit higher than other travel tripods near its price range, the Davis & Sanford TR654C-36 Traverse Grounder also packs in some options usually seen only in full-sized supports. One of the legs has a foam grip for comfort and thermal protection for your hands, the legs can be set at one of three prescribed angles, and the rubber feet have retractable spikes for extra dig in softer terrain. The extra load capacity helps this rig accommodate a DSLR camera with a short zoom lens. The center column is reversible for low shooting and the ball head is Arca-type compatible with a separate panning lock. Also, surrounding the quick release plate are bubble levels for accuracy when shooting. It also comes with a carry bag.


Davis & Sanford TR654C-36 Traverse Carbon Fiber Grounder Tripod with Ball Head

  • Load Capacity: 12 lb
  • Max. Height: 65"
  • Min. Height: 9"
  • Folded Length: 18.5"
  • Leg Sections: 4
  • Weight: 3.25 lb













8 Top-Rated Day Trips from Auckland

 



Auckland sits in the north of New Zealand's North Island, a prime position for sightseeing trips to both the gorgeous beaches and coastal scenery of the far north and excursions to the geological attractions of the island's central region. For those on a short visit to New Zealand, it's entirely viable to see a decent chunk of the country's premier sights while being based solely in Auckland.

The world-famous Waitomo caves and geothermal wonders of Rotorua and Taupo are all possible to visit on long day trips as is the country's newer Lord of The Rings and The Hobbit movie-set highlights that have brought film fans flocking to the country in recent years.

Closer to home, Waiheke Island provides a nature-filled break from city life just a stone's throw from Auckland itself, proving that even in New Zealand's most populous center, you're never too far from the country's bounty of natural beauty. Be sure to refer often to our list of the top-rated day trips and fun things to do that are an easy drive from Auckland.

Note: Some businesses may be temporarily closed due to recent global health and safety issues


1. Rotorua




Geysers and bubbling mud geothermal areas, hot pools for soaking in, and plenty of Maori culture-the town of Rotorua is one of the most interesting places to explore in New Zealand and showcases the country's unique natural beauty.

About 238 kilometers from Auckland, this is a hugely active geothermal area, and the surrounding attractions of Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, Hell's Gate, and the Whakarewarewa Valley have a medley of bizarrely colored steaming lakes, pools of bubbling mud, and exploding geysers that amaze all who visit.

Rotorua also is one of New Zealand's major centers of Maori culture and a great place to learn about the country's indigenous people.

You can visit the town and attractions on a Rotorua Day Trip from Auckland which includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, lunch, and a guide. You'll visit the geothermal attractions and stop at the Maori Arts and Craft Cultural Institute in Te Puia.

After a long day, Rotorua also has a soothing last stop before heading back on the long drive to Auckland: the town is home to plenty of hot springs, perfect for an hour of relaxation and easing aching joints with a soak. Better still, book a night at a resort close to the thermal springs.


2. Waitomo Caves




New Zealand is all about packing plenty of action and adventure into your holiday, and the country is well-known for its active pursuits. The country's most famous caving destination is within easy reach of Auckland, about 195 kilometers away, and provides experiences for both adrenaline-junkies and those seeking a more sedate experience. The Waitomo Caves are a series of deep subterranean caverns well-known for their glow worms, which provide a fairy-light backdrop to every visit.

The caves are also renowned for the black water rafting activities available to thrill-seekers here within the caverns. For an easygoing day out, you can simply take the boat ride through the glowworm caves and then walk through the caverns of Ruakuri and Aranui Caves. To add plenty of splash to the day, opt to go black water rafting through Ruakuri Cave's extensive subterranean system afterwards.


3. Bay of Islands



New Zealand is known for its gorgeous scenery, but even among the Kiwis themselves, the vistas of the Bay of Islands are considered superlative.

The Bay of Islands also plays an important role in New Zealand's history, as it was here at Waitangi that a treaty was signed between the British government and the indigenous Maori. Waitangi's Treaty Grounds are a major tourist attraction of the region, but if you're just here to experience some of the finest coastal scenery in Polynesia, then you really need to get out on a boat.

There are a wide range of cruises on offer in the Bay of Islands' centers of Paihia and Russell, any of which can take you out onto the sea to tour around the islets and islands. The coast here is part of the Bay of Islands Maritime Park, and just offshore are the islets, islands, and rock pinnacles that make this area a sailor's dream. Most boat cruises do a loop of the major sights, including stops for swimming and sunbathing at lovely Urupukapuka Island. The Bay of Islands lies about 232 kilometers from Auckland.


   4. Hobbiton Film Set



The films of The Lord of The Rings and The Hobbit have stamped New Zealand on the map for movie lovers. Tolkien fans and film geeks are in luck here, as the country has embraced its Middle Earth credentials with many tour companies offering trips exclusively centered around the Middle Earth theme.

The major site accessible from Auckland is the in situ movie set of Hobbiton in The Shire, where the hobbit holes, bridge, and Bilbo Baggins' house look just as they did on the big screen. About 161 kilometers from Auckland, the preserved site lies on part of the land of the privately owned Alexander Farm, so independent travelers will have to sign up for a tour to visit.


5. Waiheke Island




An easy break from the city, Waiheke Island is accessible by ferry from Auckland and provides a peaceful interlude to any city itinerary. The island sits in the Hauraki Gulf and is the second biggest island in the area. Many people come here simply for a day at the beach, with Oneroa Beach and Onetangi Beach being two of the most popular spots for sandy fun.

The island has plenty more to offer though if you want to do more than sunbathing. The interior has some good bushwalking options that allow a taste of New Zealand's forests, while two ziplines (known as "flying-foxes" in New Zealand) offer a unique chance to take in panoramic views across the Hauraki Gulf.


6. Coromandel Peninsula




About 173 kilometers from Auckland, the Coromandel Peninsula is a popular day trip from the city for Aucklanders and foreign visitors alike.

For most locals the major highlight is Hot Water Beach, a rather nondescript stretch of grey sand for most of the day that turns into a natural spa at low tide. Here, hot mineral water runs through the sand, meaning beach-goers can dig holes and plonk themselves down into DIY hot pools for an hour or two of serious soaking.

The peninsula is also home to beautiful Cathedral Cove, which can only be accessed by boat, kayak, or walking track. The two-hour coastal walk to the cove is well worth the exercise, allowing you to see the weathered cliffs and rock formations of this area up close.



7. Taupo



Lake Taupo and the small shore-side town of Taupo, about 278 kilometers from Auckland, are a popular family day out, combining plenty of New Zealand's geothermal sites with the lake activities of swimming, fishing, and boating.

Boat trips around the lake, taking in Mine Bay's Maori rock carvings, are one of the most popular activities, while nearby 11-meter-high Huka Falls is famed for its thundering water.

For geothermal sites (particularly if you're not heading on to Rotorua) check out the Craters of The Moon for its steaming vents; Orakei Korako for the dazzling, colorful pools that make it New Zealand's most photogenic geothermal site; and Wairakei Terraces for the hot pools.



8. Puhoi




To capture a sense of New Zealand's relaxed rural life, head to the tiny settlement of Puhoi. Surrounded by bucolic rolling hills, this town has a history that stretches back to the 1860s, when immigrants from Bohemia settled here. Much of the town has managed to hold on to its original character, allowing you to easily imagine what early settler life would have been like.

Those interested in this period in New Zealand's history should make sure to check out the Bohemia Church and Church of St. Peter and St. Paul that date from the late 19th century.

In recent years, a bundle of artisan and foodie boutiques have opened in town making for some excellent shopping diversions here as well, while the countryside on the township's doorstep has plenty of walking and hiking opportunities for the more active.






10 Best Cars for Road Trips

 



When it's time to set out on that road trip, driving the right car (or SUV) can make all the difference in the world. A good road trip car needs to be sporty and fun to drive, yet also offer good fuel economy. It needs to be roomy and filled with convenience, safety, and infotainment features as well.

Roadtrippers with families may want a big SUV like the Chevy Suburban or something more compact like the Lexus UX crossover. Those looking for something sporty may want to go with a Chevrolet Corvette Z06 or with the very fast GMC Yukon Graphite Performance Edition.

Fuel economy is a big part of choosing the best road trip vehicle, and hybrids like the Toyota Prius, Lexus ES 300h, or even the Range Rover P400e provide luxury, performance, and hybrid fuel economy.

Discover the top vehicles for your next long-distance adventure with our list of the best cars for road trips.

Note: Some businesses may be temporarily closed due to recent global health and safety issues.



1. Audi A6




Audi's mid-size sedan has evolved into a world-class luxury car. It offers the performance, features, and style of a car costing twice as much, which makes it one of the best cars for road trips.

four- or six-cylinder engine is available—go for the six for a more spirited driving experience. The A6 is one of those cars that is perfect for solo or getaways for two because it's fun to drive. You can also bring four friends (or family members) and take advantage of the car's interior room and spacious trunk.

That size and comfort comes with the full suite of Audi's legendary performance and safety technology, which starts with the sure-footed quattro all-wheel-drive system. Unlike a front- or rear-wheel drive sedan, Audi's quattro system is always on duty, sending power to all four wheels to ensure, regardless of the weather, your road trip always ends at your destination, not in a ditch.



2. Buick Regal TourX



Buick's version of a Subaru-like crossover is the ultimate modern station wagon. The road-trip-ready Regal TourX comes standard with a peppy turbocharged engine and Intelligent AWD (all-wheel-drive). The car senses which wheel needs traction and adjusts automatically via an active twin-clutch system.

A comfortable and luxurious interior is important for road trips, and the TourX gives you what Buick calls "affordable luxury." This means you get luxury features and performance at a reasonable cost. This includes Buick's QuietTuning technology, which uses things like laminated glass and special wheel-well insulation to give you a quiet cabin.


3. Chevrolet Suburban




Chevy's big SUV offers the total road trip package: room for up to eight of your friends and all kinds of cool amenities like multiple power outlets, an onboard 4G Wi-Fi hotspot, and even (optional) HD rear entertainment screens and a Blu-Ray / DVD player.

And even though it has a seating capacity for up to nine adults, this big SUV isn't as thirsty for fuel as you might think. Advanced fuel management and cylinder deactivation means the Suburban only uses four of its eight cylinders when all that power isn't needed (like when cruising down the freeway). The Suburban also gives you an 8,300 pound towing capacity, enough to haul many campers, toy trailers, or boats.


4. Lexus UX 250h



The new-for-2019 Lexus UX is their brand new compact crossover. The little UX 250h hybrid gets the highest mileage of any non-EV (electric vehicle) SUV on the market with a combined MPG of 39. You can also get the UX with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine. The hatchback design and small cargo area in the back make it practical, and that gas mileage makes it great for long distance driving.

It doesn't feel compact inside, and you get the wonderful array of Lexus' safety and driver aid technology. You also get the automaker's legendary build quality and reputation for bulletproof reliability. The UX is nimble—it has a special suspension that gives it a super tight turning radius of 17.1 feet, that's shorter than the length of a Suburban.


5. Hyundai Palisade




This new-for-2020 SUV is the first three-row offering from Hyundai. Its surprisingly luxurious interior and shift-by-wire transmission makes it probably the most comfortable SUV for long road trips. The Palisade is packed with available options and technology, giving you Lexus-like features and amenities at Hyundai prices.

Perfect for family adventures, the Palisade has some really cool features to help the driver manage their passengers. Driver Talk broadcasts the sound of the driver's voice through the sound system to all three rows of seats. Another helpful feature, unique to the Palisade, is tiny individual warning lights on the dashboard for each seat. One glance instantly tells who is buckled up and who isn't.


6. Cadillac ATS Coupe




Cadillac has really come back into prominence both as a luxury car brand and as one known for serious performance. Their ultimate road trip vehicle, especially for one or two people, is the sleek ATS Coupe. The ATS Coupe seats four adults comfortably, but as a coupe, has only two doors. Although you can kit it out with all kinds of luxury and performance features, even the base model is a very exciting car to drive.

The large, turbocharged V4 gives you almost 300 horsepower and 30 mpg on the highway for a good balance of performance and economy. There's a big trunk for all your gear and a nice array of infotainment and driver safety technologies. Most importantly for road trips, you get a thrilling driving experience with vehicle dynamics and performance technology (like Brembo brakes) proven on a race track with Cadillac's racing team.

Most importantly for road trips, you get a thrilling driving experience, with vehicle dynamics and performance technology (like Brembo brakes) proven on a race track with Cadillac's racing team.


7. Toyota Prius




With seating for five, lots of cargo space, bulletproof reliability, and 50-plus mpg, it's hard to go wrong with a Prius. For long distance driving, the full suite of available in-car infotainment options make it a fun place to spend time, whether you're a driver or a passenger.

The Prius has multiple models, including full, plug-in EV options, but even the standard hybrid Prius will get you north of 50 mpg. In 2019, Toyota introduced available AWD for the Prius, making it the highest mpg vehicle you can get with AWD.

These compact cars are surprisingly roomy inside, easily seating five adults. The rear space is also big and can fit a lot of luggage.


8. Corvette Z06



If you want to head out on a weekend getaway and get to your destination really, really quickly, the Corvette Z06 is the perfect road trip car. With Chevy's amazing supercharged, aluminum 6.2-liter V8 engine, the car has 650 horsepower and 650 pound-foot of torque.

In terms of practicality (yes, Corvettes can be practical), first, you get a huge rear cargo area, well, huge for a two-seat sports car. There is room for several full-size suitcases, even a few sets of golf clubs. Second, the Corvette, which goes from 0-60 in less than three seconds, has an Eco mode. The engine uses cylinder deactivation to only use four of its eight cylinders when only four are needed. With reasonable driving, it will give you 23 mpg.


9. Lexus ES 300h



Like the Audi A6, the Lexus ES also has the mass to give you a serious luxury car ride and driving experience. But unlike the Audi, the ES 300h is a luxury hybrid, providing that smooth ride at the fuel cost of only 44 mpg. In fact, it's considered the most fuel efficient luxury car you can buy, without going full plug-in. The luxurious ride, the bulletproof Lexus build quality, and the high fuel economy numbers make it great for long distance driving.

The ES 300h comes in three trim levels: a base version; a luxury version; and an ultra-luxury version with fancy leather seats, beautiful hand-lacquered wood trim pieces, and handcrafted aluminum accents inspired by Japanese samurai swords



10. INFINITI QX60




INFINITI's three-row mid-size SUV offers a seriously luxurious cabin just packed with all the latest driver aid and infotainment technology. The base "Pure"model delivers all this at quite a reasonable price, freeing up more money for road trips. The QX60 will transport you and six of your friends to any road trip destination in comfort. And unlike many three-row SUVs, the QX60's third row can fit adults comfortably, not just children.

Power comes from an ultra-smooth 295 hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine with a Continuously Variable Transmission, which has a manual shift mode. That technically advanced engine gets you up to 27 mpg on the freeway, an impressive figure for a luxurious three-row SUV. That comfort and fuel economy makes the QX60 one of the best SUVs for long road trips.