Taking a cross-country road trip across the United States is an adventure of a lifetime. From the stunning natural landscapes to the bustling cities, there is so much to explore and experience.
However, before embarking on such a journey, it’s important to consider the cost. In this article, we will break down the expenses involved in a US cross country road trip.
Transportation
The first and most obvious expense of a road trip is transportation. Depending on where you are starting from and your final destination, you could be looking at driving thousands of miles.
The cost of gas will vary depending on the current prices and your vehicle’s gas mileage. On average, you can expect to spend around $300-$500 on gas alone for a one-way trip across the country.
Rental Car
If you don’t own a car or your vehicle isn’t suitable for a long-distance road trip, renting a car may be an option. The cost of renting a car varies depending on factors like make and model, rental company, location, and duration. On average, renting a car for two weeks can cost around $500-$1000.
Accommodation
When it comes to accommodation during your cross-country road trip, you have several options to choose from:
- Camping: If you’re up for some outdoor adventure and have camping gear with you, camping is an affordable option that can cost as low as $10-$20 per night.
- Hotels/Motels: If you prefer more comfortable accommodations with amenities like air conditioning and showers, hotels/motels are widely available throughout the country with prices ranging from $50-$150 per night.
- Airbnb: Airbnb offers unique and affordable accommodations ranging from private rooms to entire apartments/houses. Prices vary depending on location and the type of accommodation, but on average, you can expect to spend $70-$150 per night.
Food and Drinks
Eating out every meal can add up quickly, so it’s important to budget for food and drinks during your road trip. Packing snacks and drinks can help cut down on costs. On average, you can expect to spend around $30-$50 per day on food if you’re eating out for most meals.
Activities and Sightseeing
One of the best parts of a road trip is exploring new places and trying new things. From national parks to museums, there are countless activities and sights to see across the country. Depending on your interests, you could be spending anywhere from $0 (for free activities) to hundreds of dollars per day.
Conclusion
So how much does a cross-country road trip cost? The answer varies depending on several factors like transportation, accommodation, food, and activities.
On average, you can expect to spend around $2000-$5000 for a two-week road trip across the country. However, with proper planning and budgeting, it’s possible to make a cross-country road trip both affordable and memorable.