The Best Family SUVs for Road Trips (Dog-Friendly Too!)

Planning a road trip with the family is exciting, but it can also be a bit daunting when you think about the vehicle. Will there be enough space for everyone? Is the ride comfortable for long hours on the road? And, for those with furry family members, is it dog-friendly too?

Choosing the right SUV can make all the difference whether you’re traveling with kids, dogs, or both. Modern SUVs are designed with comfort, convenience, and safety in mind, making them ideal for long journeys. Here’s a look at some of the best family SUVs for road trips, keeping in mind both human passengers and our four-legged friends.

1. Honda CR-V: The Compact Road Trip Champion

Why it’s great for families:
The Honda CR-V is consistently rated as one of the best compact SUVs for families, thanks to its spacious interior, reliable performance, and great fuel efficiency. It comfortably seats five and has a roomy cargo area, making it ideal for families with kids, luggage, and even a pet or two.

Why it’s great for dogs:
The CR-V’s low cargo floor makes it easy for dogs to hop in and out, which is especially helpful for older pets. You can fold down the rear seats to create a flat, dog-friendly space, and the rear windows are large, allowing your dog to enjoy the views.

Key features for road trips:

• 75.8 cubic feet of cargo space with seats down
• Excellent fuel economy (up to 34 mpg on the highway)
• Available all-wheel drive for light off-road adventures

Dog-friendly tip:
Add a cargo area liner to protect the upholstery from dog hair and claws, and pack a portable water bowl for hydration on the go.

2. Toyota Highlander: The Spacious All-Around Performer

Why it’s great for families:
The Toyota Highlander is a three-row SUV with ample space for larger families or those who like to travel with lots of gear. It seats up to eight, making it perfect for road trips with multiple kids or extended family. The Highlander also offers a quiet, comfortable ride, which is crucial when you’re traveling long distances.

Why it’s great for dogs:
If you have one or two dogs, you can fold down the third row to give them a dedicated space to stretch out while still keeping plenty of room for luggage. The rear air vents ensure your pets stay cool during summer road trips, and its large rear windows make it perfect for dogs that love to stick their heads out!

Key features for road trips:

• Available all-wheel drive for better traction
• 84.3 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats folded down
• Family-friendly infotainment system with multiple charging ports

Dog-friendly tip:
Bring a pet seatbelt or harness that can clip into the rear seat to keep your dog safe while driving.

3. Subaru Outback: Adventure-Ready for Families and Pets

Why it’s great for families:
The Subaru Outback is known for its rugged capabilities, making it the ideal SUV for road trips that may include off-the-beaten-path destinations. It’s also well-equipped for everyday family needs, with spacious seating for five, generous cargo space, and Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technology, which helps keep everyone safe.

Why it’s great for dogs:
The Outback’s roomy cargo area is perfect for dogs, and the flat roof rails make it easy to bring along extra gear like a rooftop tent or bike rack. If your road trip includes camping, hiking, or beach days, the Outback is a great companion for both you and your furry friends. Its water-resistant upholstery is a lifesaver for wet dogs after a swim.

Key features for road trips:

• Up to 75.7 cubic feet of cargo space
• Standard all-wheel drive for rougher terrain
• Dog-friendly cargo height with a wide opening for easier loading

Dog-friendly tip:
Consider installing a cargo divider if your dog prefers to stay in the back, allowing them space without compromising luggage storage.

4. Ford Explorer: Power and Space for Large Families

Why it’s great for families:
The Ford Explorer is a staple in the world of family SUVs, offering a roomy interior, powerful engine options, and seating for up to seven. It has lots of tech options to keep everyone entertained, and its comfortable ride ensures a smooth journey, no matter how far you’re going.

Why it’s great for dogs:
With plenty of space in the back, the Explorer can easily accommodate one or two dogs, even with kids or other passengers in the second row. The tri-zone climate control ensures the rear cabin stays cool for pets, while the wide rear door makes it easy for dogs to get in and out.

Key features for road trips:

• Up to 87.8 cubic feet of cargo space
• Terrain Management System™ for tackling snow, sand, or dirt roads
• Strong towing capacity for trailers, boats, or other adventure gear

Dog-friendly tip:
Bring a foldable pet ramp to make it easier for your dog to get into the SUV if they aren’t fans of jumping or are on the larger side.

5. Kia Telluride: Stylish, Spacious, and Safe

Why it’s great for families:
The Kia Telluride has been making waves in the SUV market for a reason. It’s stylish, offers a luxurious interior, and is packed with family-friendly features. With seating for up to eight, it’s great for bigger families or those who like to travel with friends. It also boasts an impressive list of safety features, including adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system.

Why it’s great for dogs:
The Telluride offers plenty of cargo space behind the second row if you’re traveling with one or two dogs. You can also fold down the third row to give your pups even more room to stretch out. Plus, its large windows and airy cabin ensure that your pets won’t feel cramped on long drives.

Key features for road trips:

• 87 cubic feet of cargo space
• Comfortable ride, even on rougher roads
• Top-tier safety features to protect your family and pets

Dog-friendly tip:
Keep a portable dog bed or blanket in the cargo area to give your pets a cozy spot to nap during the trip.

6. Chevrolet Traverse: Room for Everything (and Everyone)

Why it’s great for families:
The Chevy Traverse is perfect for large families or anyone who needs extra room. It’s one of the biggest midsize SUVs, with seating for up to eight and a spacious third row that even adults can sit in comfortably. This is an ideal SUV for long road trips where space is a priority.

Why it’s great for dogs:
If you’re traveling with kids and dogs, the Traverse offers more than enough space to keep everyone happy. The rear cargo area is huge, and folding down the third row creates a massive area for dogs to lounge. Plus, the tri-zone climate control ensures that your pets stay comfortable no matter where they are in the SUV.

Key features for road trips:

• Best-in-class cargo volume (up to 98.2 cubic feet)
• Quiet, smooth ride, even on long highway stretches
• Strong V6 engine for hauling gear or trailers

Dog-friendly tip:
Invest in a durable pet hammock for the rear seats to keep dogs secure and comfortable while protecting your seats from fur or dirt.

Conclusion

When it comes to road trips, having the right SUV can make the journey just as enjoyable as the destination. Whether you’re packing up kids, dogs, or both, these SUVs offer the space, comfort, and safety features you need. From the rugged Subaru Outback to the roomy Chevrolet Traverse, each of these vehicles is well-suited for family travel, and just as important, they’re ready for your four-legged companions too.

So, which one fits your road trip style best? Whether you’re hitting the mountains, exploring the desert, or cruising along the coast, these SUVs will help you make lasting memories with all your loved ones – furry or otherwise!

Are you ready to plan your next road trip? Let us know where you’re heading and what your family (or pet) road trip essentials are!