Road trips are an exciting way to explore new places and create unforgettable memories. However, when it comes to carrying cash, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
How much cash should you carry on a road trip? Let’s find out.
Why Carry Cash on a Road Trip?
Before we dive into the amount of cash you should carry on a road trip, let’s understand why carrying cash is important.
- Emergency situations: You never know when an emergency situation might arise. Carrying cash can help you deal with unexpected expenses such as car repairs or medical emergencies.
- No credit card acceptance: There may be places where credit cards are not accepted. In such cases, having cash can help you make payments.
- Tipping: It’s always good to carry some cash for tipping drivers, waiters, and other service providers.
How Much Cash Should You Carry?
The amount of cash you should carry on a road trip depends on various factors such as:
The Length of Your Trip
If you’re going on a short trip, carrying $100-$200 in cash should suffice. However, if you’re going on a long road trip that lasts for more than a week, consider carrying at least $500 in cash.
Your Travel Destination
The amount of cash you need also depends on your travel destination. If you’re travelling to rural areas or small towns where credit cards are not accepted, consider carrying more cash.
Your Budget
Your budget is another factor that determines the amount of cash you should carry. If you plan to stay in budget hotels and eat at inexpensive restaurants, carrying less than $300 in cash should be enough. However, if you plan to stay in luxury hotels and eat at expensive restaurants, carry at least $500-$1000 in cash.
How to Carry Cash Safely?
Now that you know how much cash to carry on a road trip, it’s essential to carry it safely. Here are some tips:
- Don’t keep all your cash in one place: Divide your cash into smaller amounts and keep them in different places such as your wallet, backpack, or luggage.
- Use a money belt: A money belt is a safe and secure way to carry cash. It’s worn around the waist and kept hidden under clothing.
- Be cautious when using ATMs: When withdrawing cash from an ATM, make sure no one is standing too close to you. Also, cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
The Bottom Line
Carrying cash on a road trip is essential for dealing with unexpected expenses and making payments where credit cards are not accepted. The amount of cash you should carry depends on various factors such as the length of your trip, your travel destination, and your budget. Always remember to carry your cash safely by dividing it into smaller amounts and keeping it in different places or using a money belt.