How Much Does a 1000 Mile Road Trip Cost?

By Anna Duncan

Going on a road trip can be an exciting adventure, but it’s important to plan accordingly, especially when it comes to budgeting. If you’re planning a 1000-mile road trip, you may be wondering how much it will cost. In this article, we’ll break down the costs and give you some tips on how to save money along the way.

Gas

One of the biggest expenses on any road trip is gas. The cost of gas can vary depending on where you live and where you’re traveling to.

According to AAA, as of August 2021, the national average for regular gas is $3.12 per gallon. If your car gets an average of 25 miles per gallon and you’re driving 1000 miles, you’ll need 40 gallons of gas. This means that your total cost for gas would be around $125.

Lodging

Another expense to consider is lodging. If you plan on staying in hotels or motels along the way, this can add up quickly.

The average cost of a hotel room in the United States is around $130 per night. If you plan on staying for five nights during your 1000-mile road trip, this could cost you around $650.

Food

You also need to consider food expenses during your road trip. Eating out at restaurants can get expensive quickly, so consider packing snacks and meals that you can prepare yourself ahead of time.

On average, a meal at a fast-food restaurant costs around $7-$10 per person. If you eat three meals a day for five days during your trip with two people in your party, this could cost upwards of $210.

Activities

Lastly, think about any activities or attractions that you want to do along the way. These could include visiting national parks or museums or taking part in tours or activities. The costs of these activities can vary greatly, but it’s important to budget for them ahead of time.

  • Gas: $125
  • Lodging: $650
  • Food: $210
  • Activities: $100 (estimate)

Total Estimated Cost: $1085

Tips for Saving Money on a Road Trip

While a road trip can be costly, there are ways to save money along the way. Here are some tips:

  • Consider camping instead of staying in hotels.
  • Pack food and snacks instead of eating out at restaurants.
  • Use apps like GasBuddy to find the cheapest gas prices along your route.
  • Take advantage of free activities such as hiking or visiting local parks.
  • Travel with friends or family to split costs such as gas and lodging.

In Conclusion

A 1000-mile road trip can be an exciting adventure, but it’s important to budget accordingly. Gas, lodging, food, and activities are all expenses that need to be considered. By planning ahead and using some money-saving tips, you can enjoy your road trip without breaking the bank.