Are you planning to embark on an exciting road trip across all 50 states of the United States? The thought of traversing the country, exploring new places, and experiencing different cultures can be exhilarating. However, before you hit the road, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of how much such an adventure would cost.
The cost of a 50-state road trip can vary widely depending on several factors. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of these factors and help you estimate the total expenses involved.
Transportation:
Driving across all 50 states is undoubtedly an adventure, but it can also be expensive. The cost of transportation is one of the most significant expenses you’ll incur on this type of journey. You’ll need to consider fuel costs, maintenance costs for your vehicle, and other transportation-related expenses like tolls and parking fees.
The average price of gas in the US is around $3 per gallon. If your car has a fuel efficiency rating of 25 miles per gallon (mpg), you’ll spend approximately $7,500 on gas alone for a 15,000-mile road trip. However, this figure can increase if your vehicle has low fuel efficiency or if gas prices rise.
Additionally, you’ll need to factor in maintenance costs like oil changes and tire replacements. These costs can add up over time and may require additional budgeting.
Accommodation:
Another significant expense on your 50 state road trip will be accommodation costs. You’ll need to find suitable accommodation for yourself and any traveling companions along the way.
You can choose from various options like hotels/motels, campgrounds or RV parks. The average cost for hotel accommodation ranges from $100-$150 per night while camping fees vary between $10-$40 per night depending on location and facilities available.
- If you plan to stay in hotels/motels, budget around $5,000-$7,500 for 50 nights
- If you are camping or using RV parks, budget around $1,500-$2,500 for 50 nights
Food and Drink:
On a road trip of this magnitude, food and drink expenses can add up quickly. Your average daily food budget will depend on your eating habits and preferences. If you’re a foodie or love trying out new restaurants, you may need to budget more than someone who prefers to cook their meals.
If you plan to eat out every day of the trip, expect to spend around $30-$50 per day per person. However, if you plan to cook your meals or pack your own snacks and drinks along the way, you can save some money.
Activities and Entertainment:
One of the best things about a road trip is the opportunity to explore new places and experiences. You’ll want to set aside some money for activities like visiting national parks or museums.
The cost of activities and entertainment varies widely depending on location and type of activity. However, it’s good to have a rough estimate of how much you’ll need to spend on attractions.
- Budget around $500-$1,000 for attractions like national parks and museums
- Other activities like concerts or sports events can cost anywhere from $25-$300 depending on the event.
Total Cost:
Adding up all these expenses will give you an idea of how much your 50 state road trip will cost. While the total cost can vary based on individual preferences and circumstances here’s an estimated breakdown:
- Transportation: $7,500
- Accommodation: $5,000 – $7,500
- Food and Drink: $1,500 – $2,500
- Activities and Entertainment: $500 – $1,000
This means that the total cost of a 50 state road trip can range anywhere from $14,000 to $18,500. However, this is just an estimate and your actual expenses may vary based on numerous factors.
In conclusion, a 50 state road trip can be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. While the total cost may seem intimidating, proper budgeting and planning can make it an achievable goal. So go ahead and hit the open road on an epic journey across America!