Are you thinking of embarking on a cross-country road trip? It’s an adventure that many people dream of, but before you hit the open road, it’s important to consider the cost.
From gas to lodging, food to activities, expenses can add up quickly. In this article, we’ll break down the costs associated with a cross-country road trip so you can budget accordingly.
Transportation
The biggest expense for any road trip is transportation. Depending on where you’re starting from and where you’re headed, gas prices can vary greatly.
As of 2021, the average price of gas in the United States is around $3 per gallon. According to AAA, the average car gets about 24 miles per gallon on the highway. So if your trip is 3,000 miles long and gas costs $3 per gallon, you’ll spend around $375 on gas alone.
If you don’t own a car or your car isn’t reliable enough for a long road trip, you may want to consider renting a car instead. The cost of renting a car varies depending on factors such as location, time of year, and type of vehicle. On average, though, expect to pay around $50-$75 per day for a rental car.
Lodging
Another major expense for any road trip is lodging. Depending on your travel style and preferences, there are several options to choose from:
- Hotels: Depending on where you stay and what amenities are included (such as breakfast), hotel costs can vary greatly. On average though, expect to pay around $100-$150 per night.
- Airbnb: If you prefer more privacy or want access to a kitchen so you can cook some meals yourself and save money on eating out all the time then Airbnb might be a better option.
The cost of an Airbnb varies depending on location and the type of property you choose. On average, though, expect to pay around $100-$200 per night.
- Camping: If you’re willing to rough it a bit and sleep in a tent or RV, camping can be a great way to save money. Campground fees vary but on average expect to pay around $30-$50 per night.
Food
Eating out for every meal can quickly add up on a cross-country road trip. To save money, consider packing some snacks and meals in a cooler so you don’t have to stop at restaurants as often. When you do eat out, try to stick to budget-friendly options like fast food or local diners instead of fancy restaurants.
Activities
There are plenty of free activities to enjoy on a road trip such as hiking or visiting national parks. But if you want to do some paid activities like visiting museums or amusement parks, make sure to budget accordingly. It’s also important to factor in any souvenirs or gifts you may want to purchase.
Unexpected Expenses
No matter how well you plan your road trip, unexpected expenses are bound to pop up. Car trouble, medical emergencies, or weather-related delays can all add unexpected costs. It’s important to have some extra money set aside for these situations.
In Conclusion
The cost of a cross-country road trip can vary greatly depending on your travel style and preferences. On average though, expect to spend around $1,500-$3,000 for a two-week trip (excluding airfare if necessary). By budgeting ahead of time and being mindful of your spending while on the road, you can ensure that your adventure is both fun and affordable.