What Ford Vehicle is Best for Summer Travel
What Ford Vehicle is Best for Summer Travel?

When the warm weather rolls in and road trip season kicks into high gear, there’s nothing like having the perfect vehicle to elevate your summer adventures. At Bowditch Ford in Newport News, VA, we understand our drivers need to find a reliable, comfortable, and capable Ford vehicle for all their travel needs. Whether you’re towing a boat to the Chesapeake Bay, heading to the Blue Ridge Mountains, or packing up the family for a Virginia Beach getaway, there’s a Ford built just for that purpose. Here’s a breakdown of the best Ford vehicles for summer travel — including SUVs, trucks, and hybrids — to help you choose the one that fits your lifestyle.
Ford Expedition: Your Ultimate Family Road Trip SUV
If you’re packing up the whole crew, the Ford Expedition is hands-down the best Ford SUV for family vacations. With seating for up to eight, generous legroom, and Ford Expedition max cargo space, there’s room for coolers, beach chairs, and plenty of snacks. Available roof rack options for kayaks and bikes make it easy to bring along all your summer toys. At the same time, the Expedition’s impressive Ford towing capacity allows you to pull a boat or camper without breaking a sweat.
Perfect for trips to Virginia Beach or Busch Gardens, the Expedition's climate-controlled seats keep everyone comfortable during humid Hampton Roads summers.

Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport: Adventure-Ready Off-Roaders

For thrill-seekers who love the outdoors, the Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport are built to take you wherever the trail leads. These SUVs are among the best off-road Ford models on the market, with off-road suspension for trails, G.O.A.T. (Go Over Any Terrain) Modes™, and available 4x4 systems. The Ford Bronco beach driving experience is unmatched — ideal for those heading to coastal spots like Sandbridge or the Outer Banks.
For overland campers heading to the George Washington National Forest, they’re also contenders for the best Ford for overlanding thanks to their rugged durability and innovative cargo solutions.
Ford Escape: Comfort Meets Efficiency
The Ford Escape is a wise choice for couples or small families looking for a smooth and efficient ride. As one of the best fuel-efficient Ford vehicles for long trips, especially with its hybrid or plug-in hybrid variants, the Escape saves you time and money at the pump. It’s also agile enough for urban driving around Newport News, with available all-wheel drive (AWD) and a range of tech and safety features to keep your journey stress-free.
Great for day trips to Colonial Williamsburg or Jamestown, where parking can be tight but comfort is key.

Also Read: Explore Ford Summer Specials
Ford Explorer: Versatility in Every Mile

Looking for a midsize SUV that blends space, power, and capability? The Ford Explorer is a fan favorite. With seating for up to seven and a solid Ford towing capacity, it’s great for hauling a jet ski or trailer, while still offering a smooth and quiet ride. Add roof rack options for kayaks and bikes, and you’ve got a well-rounded SUV ideal for camping trips to First Landing State Park, beach weekends, and cross-country journeys.
Ford Maverick: Compact, Capable, and Efficient
The Ford Maverick is a unique truck that’s redefining summer travel for active drivers. It offers pickup utility in a smaller, more fuel-efficient package — perfect for city dwellers or those with lighter hauling needs. The available hybrid engine makes it the best fuel-efficient Ford for long trips, while the versatile FlexBed™ system supports gear organization for everything from surfboards to tents.
Ideal for weekend trips to the Virginia Living Museum or loading up for a day at Huntington Park Beach.

Ford F-150 and F-150 Lightning: Summer’s Ultimate Workhorses

When it comes to heavy-duty towing, you can’t go wrong with the Ford F-150. Whether you’re hauling an RV to the mountains or a boat to Smithfield Station, the Ford towing capacity on the F-150 gives you peace of mind. Its roomy interior and modern features make long drives feel like a breeze.
Want the same capability with a modern twist? The F-150 Lightning delivers electric power without sacrificing performance. It’s efficient, innovative, and a surprising standout for summer travel, offering the power you expect from the F-Series lineup while contributing to a greener drive.
Plan Your Summer With Ford
No matter your summer destination — from Virginia Beach bonfires to Blue Ridge Mountain trails — there’s a Ford ready to go the distance with you. Stop by Bowditch Ford at 11291 Jefferson Ave, Newport News, VA 23601 to test drive any of these adventure-ready models. Let us help you find the Ford that turns your summer road trips into unforgettable memories.
FAQs
Which Ford SUV is best for beach driving?
The Ford Bronco with available 4x4 systems is perfect for beach driving along Virginia's coast, with special drive modes for sand traction.
What’s the most fuel-efficient Ford model for summer road trips?
The Ford Maverick Hybrid and Escape Hybrid provide excellent fuel efficiency for trips to the Outer Banks or Washington D.C.
Does Bowditch Ford offer summer specials?
Yes! Check out our new vehicle promotions for the latest summer deals on Ford models.
Can I custom order a Ford for summer delivery?
Absolutely! Visit our Your Ford, Your Way page to build your perfect summer vehicle.