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Coolcation: sustainable and cool travel

Renting a car for a coolcation

Summers in Europe are getting hotter and busier. That's why more and more travelers are opting for a new way of vacationing: the coolcation. Read on to find out exactly what that means and why more and more people are choosing it.

What is a coolcation?

A coolcation means consciously avoiding the heat and crowds. Instead of going to crowded and hot destinations in the summer, you choose cooler countries or plan your trip in the spring or fall. This way, you travel in more pleasant temperatures and experience more peace and quiet along the way. Activities such as hiking, cycling, or city walks become not only more comfortable but also more relaxing.

Because you avoid mass tourism, there is also more space to really experience the surroundings. And there is an additional advantage: traveling outside the busiest periods is often more sustainable, because the burden on destinations is better spread and you travel more efficiently yourself.

6 perfect places for a coolcation

Ireland

Green hills, rugged coastlines, and lively villages make Ireland the ultimate coolcation destination. By car, you can discover routes such as the Wild Atlantic Way or drive past icons such as the Cliffs of Moher, always with space and tranquility along the way.

Sicily (Italy) in autumn

Sicily combines culture, nature, and coastal roads with a relaxed pace. In autumn, cities such as Palermo and Taormina are easy to explore, and Mount Etna is an impressive highlight without the summer crowds.

Black Forest (Germany)

Close to home, yet a world apart. Vast forests, winding mountain roads, and quiet villages provide a cool and atmospheric backdrop where you can drive around endlessly and enjoy nature.

Czech Republic

In addition to the famous capital Prague, the Czech Republic offers a wealth of castles, medieval towns, and nature reserves such as Bohemian Switzerland. By car, you can reach places that are rarely visited by tourists.

Hungary

From Lake Balaton to vast vineyards and ancient thermal baths, Hungary surprises with its diversity. Especially in spring and fall, the climate is pleasant, the roads are quiet, and the atmosphere is relaxed. Ideal for a coolcation at your own pace.

Zweden

Vast forests, glistening lakes, and quiet roads make Sweden ideal for a coolcation. You can travel in complete freedom, with plenty of space for both nature and cities such as Gothenburg and Malmö.

Why rent a car for a coolcation

A coolcation often goes hand in hand with a road trip, and that's where a rental car comes in handy. You set your own pace and route, make spontaneous stops at viewpoints or small villages along the way, and reach places that are difficult or impossible to reach by public transport. This not only gives you ultimate flexibility and comfort, especially over longer distances or in mountainous areas, but also the opportunity to make a conscious choice for sustainability by driving an electric or hybrid car and thus reducing your footprint.

Practical tips for a coolcation with a rental car

Practical tips for a coolcation with a rental car

  • Choose the right car: For a coolcation, the choice of car can make or break your travel experience. If you are going into the mountains or have a lot of luggage for outdoor activities, an SUV or station wagon is ideal. If you are mainly traveling in cities, a compact car is more convenient. Also consider an electric car: in countries such as Norway and Switzerland, the charging network is excellent and you can also travel sustainably.

  • Prepare for changeable weather: In cooler destinations, the weather can change quickly. Bring layers of clothing and a good raincoat, especially in regions such as Scotland or Scandinavia. Check the availability of gas stations or charging points in advance, especially if you are exploring remote nature reserves.

  • Enjoy the journey itself: Make the drive part of the vacation. Plan your route roughly, but stay flexible so you can stop at viewpoints or local attractions. Download offline maps for areas without mobile coverage and bring snacks and water for longer journeys. This way, every drive becomes a relaxing adventure.

  • Make it authentic: With a rental car, you can reach places that are difficult to find by public transport: charming villages, small festivals, or special nature reserves. By stopping more often and connecting with the environment, you will experience your coolcation more intensely and support the local community.

  • Arrange practical matters in advance: Make sure your rental car has the right extras, such as navigation or a roof rack, and consider insurance for glass and tire damage. This will prevent surprises along the way. Also, check current offers, such as the 2025 fall savings, to start your coolcation carefree and affordably.