Have you ever dreamt of embarking on a cross country road trip? The thought of travelling through different states, exploring new cities, and meeting people from diverse backgrounds is enough to excite anyone.
However, before you hit the road, it’s essential to plan your budget. In this article, we’ll discuss how much money you need to do a cross country road trip.
Transportation Expenses
The first expense that comes to mind when planning a road trip is transportation. There are several options available such as renting an RV, using your personal car or bike, or even buying a new vehicle altogether. You need to consider the type of vehicle you’ll use and calculate the fuel cost based on the total distance you plan to cover.
Fuel Cost
The fuel cost depends on various factors such as the type of vehicle, fuel efficiency, and distance travelled. On average, a car gets 25 miles per gallon (mpg) in city areas and 30 mpg on highways.
If your car has a 15-gallon tank and gas costs $3 per gallon, then one full tank would cost $45. Assuming a distance of 3000 miles for your entire journey (which is the average distance for cross country trips), you would require around 10 full tanks for your trip – which totals up to $450.
Rental Cost
If you’re planning on renting an RV or any other vehicle for your trip instead of using your personal car, then rental costs can vary depending on the rental company and duration of your trip. On average, RV rentals can range from $50-$300 per day depending on their size and amenities.
Lodging Expenses
The next significant expense that comes up during a cross country road trip is lodging. It’s essential to plan out where you will stay each night before setting off on your trip. There are several options available, such as hotels, motels, campgrounds, or even couch-surfing.
Hotel and Motel Costs
The cost of hotels and motels vary depending on the location and amenities. On average, a hotel room costs around $150 per night, while a motel room can cost approximately $70 per night. If you’re planning to stay in a hotel for every night of your 3000-mile trip, it will cost you approximately $4500 for lodging expenses alone.
Campground Costs
Camping is a more affordable option compared to hotels and motels. The average cost of camping in a national park is around $30 per night. If you’re planning to camp every night of your trip, it would amount to $900 for lodging expenses.
Food Expenses
Another significant expense during a road trip is food. It’s essential to plan your meals in advance and budget accordingly.
Grocery Costs
Bringing groceries with you on the road can save money compared to eating out at restaurants. The average cost of groceries per person per day is around $20. For a 14-day trip (which is the average duration), it would cost approximately $560.
Restaurant Costs
If you prefer eating out at restaurants instead of cooking your meals, then restaurant costs can vary depending on the location and type of restaurant you choose. On average, eating out three times a day can cost around $50-$70 per day per person.
Other Expenses
Other expenses that may come up during your cross country road trip include sightseeing fees, tolls, parking fees, and souvenirs.
Sightseeing Fees
Visiting national parks or any other tourist attraction may require an entry fee. The average entrance fee for a national park is around $35 per vehicle.
Tolls and Parking Fees
If you’re using a toll road or parking in a garage, then you need to factor in these costs as well. Tolls can cost around $10-$20 per day, while parking fees can range from $10-$50 per day depending on the location.
Souvenirs
Lastly, you may want to buy souvenirs along the way to remember your trip. Souvenir costs vary depending on what you purchase.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the total cost of a cross country road trip depends on several factors such as transportation, lodging, food, and other expenses. On average, a 14-day road trip covering 3000 miles can cost anywhere from $3000-$7000 or more depending on your preferences and choices. Proper budgeting and planning can help ensure that you have an enjoyable trip without breaking the bank.