How I Traveled Across Ukraine by Car: A Road Trip Guide

How I Traveled Across Ukraine by Car: A Road Trip Guide

It was a decision that weighed heavily on my heart. As a Dutch blogger and avid traveler, I’ve explored many countries, from the snowy peaks of Norway to the sandy beaches of Greece, but never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that my next big adventure would be to Ukraine—a country torn apart by war.

The initial idea of visiting Ukraine came during a conversation with a Ukrainian friend, who told me heartbreaking stories about their homeland. I had been following the news closely, and the images of devastation and resilience in the face of such adversity stayed with me long after I saw them. I knew I had to do something. I wasn’t just going to sit behind a screen and watch. I had to see it for myself, experience it first-hand, and help in whatever way I could.

I gathered some supplies—food, clothes, medical kits, and some essential items—and set up a fundraiser on my blog, asking my followers to contribute to Ukraine’s needs. But that wasn’t enough. I realized that the only way I could truly understand what was happening in Ukraine was to go there. I decided to travel across the country by car, visiting various cities and towns, speaking to people, and sharing their stories with my audience. My goal was simple: to give a voice to the people who are fighting for their survival, to bring the world’s attention to their struggles, and to raise more funds to support the Ukrainian army.

Preparing for the Journey

Planning for a trip like this wasn’t easy. The situation in Ukraine was unstable, and I had to be extremely careful. I reached out to local contacts and volunteers who had been in the country since the conflict began to make sure I had a safe route and the necessary information to navigate through the war zones. I made sure to pack light but well-prepared—no heavy luggage, just the essentials, and of course, the humanitarian aid I’d be distributing along the way.

When it came time to figure out how I would travel around the country, I knew I would need a reliable vehicle. That’s when I found Car-Rent.ua, a local car rental service. I am incredibly grateful for their help throughout the entire journey. From the very beginning, they provided exceptional service, answering all of my questions and giving me valuable advice on how to safely enter Ukraine, the best routes to take, where to stop along the way, and how to move around in the most secure way possible. Their team even arranged for the car to be delivered directly to my location, which made everything much easier. The car itself was in perfect condition, and I was able to focus on my mission without worrying about transportation.

The Road Trip Across Ukraine

My first stop was Kyiv, the capital. It was here that I saw the juxtaposition of resilience and devastation. Despite the war, the city was alive, bustling with people who refused to leave their homes. I visited hospitals, talked to soldiers, and helped distribute aid. What struck me the most were the civilians—families who had lost loved ones, but still found the strength to fight for their country. I spent a couple of days in Kyiv, documenting everything and speaking with locals, trying to understand their pain, their strength, and their hopes for the future.

From there, I drove to the eastern part of the country, closer to the front lines. The roads became more desolate as I ventured further. In towns like Kharkiv, where the conflict had taken a heavier toll, the atmosphere was somber. I met with volunteers who were working tirelessly to provide medical care and distribute food. I shared their stories on my blog, hoping that it would spark more donations for the Ukrainian army and those in need.

One of the most touching moments of my journey was in Dnipro, where I met a group of Ukrainian women who had formed a collective to support the soldiers on the front lines. They were sending supplies, cooking meals, and offering emotional support to the families of soldiers. They invited me to spend the evening with them, and we talked about everything—life before the war, life during the war, and their dreams for a peaceful future. I couldn’t help but feel humbled by their strength.

As I continued my journey south toward Odessa, the stories I heard became even more heart-wrenching. In the smaller villages, I found people who had lost their homes, their livelihoods, and in some cases, their families. Yet, despite everything, they were determined to rebuild. I spent time with a group of volunteers who were focused on getting the youngest citizens back to school, even in the midst of the chaos.

The Impact of the Journey

By the time I made it back to the Netherlands, I was exhausted—physically, mentally, and emotionally. But I also felt a profound sense of purpose. This wasn’t just about telling stories. This was about being part of something larger, something that was bigger than any of us.

I shared my experiences with my audience, and the response was incredible. People from all over the world donated money, supplies, and even their time to help Ukraine. It wasn’t just the funds I raised for the Ukrainian army—it was the sense of solidarity, the knowledge that people were no longer indifferent to the suffering of others.

Traveling across Ukraine by car, through both peaceful cities and devastated villages, I saw what true resilience looks like. I saw people who refused to give up, even when everything seemed lost. And I knew that I would continue to raise awareness for Ukraine for as long as I could.

Practical Road Trip Tips for Traveling in Ukraine

Based on my experience traveling across Ukraine during the war, I’ve gathered some important tips that might help anyone planning a similar journey. While the situation in the country remains unpredictable, careful planning and local knowledge can make a big difference.

1. Choose a Reliable Car Rental Service

I cannot stress enough how important it is to have a reliable vehicle, especially in a country where some roads may be damaged or blocked. I highly recommend renting a car from a trusted local company like Car-Rent.ua. Not only did they provide me with a great vehicle, but they also helped me plan my routes, advised me on the safest roads, and even delivered the car to my location. Their support was invaluable throughout my trip.

2. Plan Your Route Carefully

Not all roads in Ukraine are accessible, and some areas are unsafe due to ongoing military operations. Before setting out, check local sources for updates on road conditions, military checkpoints, and potential danger zones. Apps like Google Maps, Waze, and DeepState Map (a local war zone tracking tool) are useful, but always cross-check information with locals.

3. Be Prepared for Checkpoints

Security checkpoints are common, especially near major cities and conflict zones. Be ready to show your passport or other identification, and keep a calm and respectful attitude when speaking with security personnel. If you’re a foreigner, having a local contact who can vouch for you or help with translations can be beneficial.

4. Use Accommodations Wisely

Many hotels and hostels in Ukraine are still operating, but it’s best to book in advance. Some places offer discounts or even free stays for volunteers and journalists. Apps like Booking.com, Airbnb, and local Telegram groups can help you find accommodations. In safer areas, locals are often willing to host travelers, especially those coming to help.

5. Have Emergency Contacts

Make sure to save emergency numbers, including:

• 112 – General emergency services
• 101 – Fire department
• 102 – Police
• 103 – Ambulance

It’s also helpful to join Telegram channels where locals share real-time updates on safety, roadblocks, and air raid alerts.

6. Always Carry Essentials

Given the unpredictable nature of travel in Ukraine, I recommend always having a backpack with:

• Power bank and extra phone charger
• Bottled water and non-perishable snacks
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Basic first-aid kit
• Cash (as not all places accept cards)

7. Respect Local Customs and Situations

Ukrainians are incredibly hospitable, but remember that this is a country at war. Many people have lost loved ones, and their daily lives are full of hardships. Always be respectful when taking photos or asking questions. If you want to help, donate to verified organizations or directly support volunteers.

By following these tips, you can make your trip across Ukraine safer and more impactful. Whether you’re traveling to help, report, or simply to understand the situation firsthand, responsible and well-planned movement is key.

Essential Apps and Websites for Traveling in Ukraine

During my road trip across Ukraine, I found several resources incredibly helpful for navigation, safety updates, and local communication. If you're planning a trip, make sure to have these apps and websites at hand.

Navigation & Road Conditions

1. Google Maps (maps.google.com) – Best for general navigation, but not always updated on roadblocks.
2. Waze (waze.com) – Good for real-time traffic updates and alerts about road conditions.
3. DeepState Map (deepstatemap.live) – A Ukrainian website providing real-time updates on front lines, road accessibility, and danger zones.
4. Ukravtodor (ukravtodor.gov.ua) – Official government site with road conditions and construction updates.

Safety & Alerts

1. Air Alert (Повітряна тривога) – A must-have app for receiving real-time air raid alerts based on your location. Available on Android and iOS.
2. Ukraine Now (t.me/UkraineNow) – Official Telegram channel with updates on the war and safety recommendations.
3. SaveUA (Спаси Україну) – App for emergency assistance, evacuation support, and humanitarian aid coordination.

Car Rental & Transportation

1. Car-Rent.ua (car-rent.ua) – The best local car rental service I used. They offer flexible options, safety consultations, and even deliver the car to your location.
2. Ukrzaliznytsia (uz.gov.ua) – The official website of Ukrainian Railways for train schedules and tickets.
3. BlaBlaCar (blablacar.com) – Useful for finding shared rides between cities at an affordable price.

Accommodation & Local Services

1. Booking.com (booking.com) – Still the best platform for finding hotels in Ukraine.
2. Airbnb (airbnb.com) – Many hosts offer discounts or even free stays for volunteers.
3. Dobrobat (dobrobat.org) – A volunteer organization connecting travelers with humanitarian aid opportunities and places to stay.

Communication & Local Networks

1. Kyivstar / Vodafone / Lifecell – The three main mobile operators. Get a local SIM card for fast mobile internet.
2. Telegram (telegram.org) – The main messaging app in Ukraine. Many volunteer networks, safety updates, and local communities communicate through Telegram channels.

Humanitarian Aid & Donations

1. United24 (u24.gov.ua) – The official fundraising platform of Ukraine, supporting military, medical, and reconstruction needs.
2. Prytula Foundation (prytulafoundation.org) – A well-known Ukrainian charity supporting military and humanitarian efforts.
3. Come Back Alive (savelife.in.ua) – One of the most trusted organizations supporting the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

These resources will help you navigate Ukraine, stay safe, and make the most of your trip. Whether you're traveling for humanitarian reasons, journalism, or just to experience the resilience of Ukraine, preparation is key.

Conclusion

If you ever find yourself thinking of visiting Ukraine, do it—if it’s safe, and if you feel you can contribute. But know that it’s not just a road trip. It’s an experience that will stay with you forever. You will witness the horrors of war, but you will also witness the extraordinary strength of the Ukrainian people, their willingness to fight for their future, and the incredible spirit that keeps them going, even in the darkest times.

A huge thank you to Car-Rent.ua for making this journey possible and for their unwavering support throughout. I couldn’t have done it without them.