How to Take a Road Trip on a Budget

Have you always wondered how to take a road trip on a budget? Do you think it takes tons of money to experience an excellent road trip within the U.S.? I’m here to tell you it doesn’t. There are several travel tips that I will share with you on how you can take a road trip within your budget.

TIP #1- PLAN

If you don’t have a budget, you could be spending more money on your road trip than you necessarily have to. That brings me to my first tip, plan where you would like to travel. Once you have the destination, start researching the best time to take a road trip there, the cost of lodging, food, etc. I advise choosing a destination not too far and where you can get the best for your buck. If dates aren’t that important to you, choose flexible dates to see what’s cheapest; cheaper rates = more money in your pocket for souvenirs.

TIP #2-SIGN UP FOR EXCLUSIVE MEMBERSHIP DEALS

Another way to take a road trip on a budget is with hotel membership deals. I am a member of every hotel chain possible. Here are a few benefits of becoming a member of hotels: discounted rates, early check-ins, late check-outs, upgrades, etc. And don’t skip on employee perks through your employer. Some employers offer discounts on car rentals, hotels, package deals, and more. Even on a road trip, you can save money through travel sites like Expedia, Delta Vacations, Southwest Vacations, or Cheap Caribbean. Your travel budget doesn’t have to be huge to enjoy an excellent road trip.

TIP #3-BUDGET

Now that you know where you would like to take your road trip and get the best deals, it’s time to create a travel budget. Your travel budget shouldn’t be difficult to develop at this point. I plan all road trips and vacations months ahead of time. Not only does this save me money and time, but it also allows me to think out my travel budget and adjust where needed thoroughly.

When you think of your budget, include everything that you would like to explore on your road trip and develop a plan that works. Don’t let all this planning and excitement be wasted by not budgeting. When it comes to your travel budget, there may be things that you will have to sacrifice, but when you have a solid budget, you’ll be well aware. If money seems tight, but you are determined to take a quick road trip, calculate how much it will cost you and the average cost for food and lodging.

TIP #4-MAKE IT A GIRL’S TRIP

If you can’t find the right deals for your road trip, or if your budget doesn’t allow you to travel solo, recruit a few of your girlfriends to share in the cost. When you split the cost amongst others, you’ll be able to save money and enjoy yourself with others.

The biggest tip for traveling with your friends is to be upfront. Let them know your budget and what you can afford. Even on a road trip, it’s a good idea to know ahead of time the travel plans so that you won’t be surprised once you arrive at your destination.

Well, that’s all my friends. When was the last time you took a road trip? Did you budget and plan for it? If so, how well does it work for you? I would love to hear!

Check out this blog post: How To Make Your Travel Budget Stretch.