Are you planning to go on a road trip across America? It’s an adventure of a lifetime that many people dream of.
You’ll get to experience the diverse cultures, scenic landscapes, and iconic landmarks of this vast country. However, before you hit the road, it’s crucial to have a budget in mind. In this article, we’ll break down the costs involved in going on a road trip across America.
Transportation
The first cost to consider is transportation. If you’re taking your own car, you’ll need to factor in gas expenses, maintenance costs, and insurance premiums.
The cost of gas varies depending on the state and location, but on average, you can expect to pay around $2.50 per gallon. Assuming your car has a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon and you’re driving 5,000 miles round trip, you’ll need 200 gallons of gas. That’s $500 in gas expenses alone.
If you don’t have your own car or prefer to rent one for the trip, rental prices vary depending on the type of vehicle and rental company. On average, you can expect to pay around $40-50 per day for a standard car rental. For a 30-day road trip across America, that’s roughly $1,200-1,500 in total.
Lodging
The next cost to consider is lodging. Accommodation prices will vary depending on where you stay and what type of accommodation you choose. If you plan on staying in hotels or motels throughout your trip, expect to pay around $100-150 per night on average.
Another option is camping. There are numerous campsites across America that offer affordable rates for tents or RVs. Prices vary depending on location and amenities available but generally range from $15-50 per night.
Food
Food is another expense to factor in. If you plan on eating out at restaurants for every meal, expect to pay around $10-20 per meal per person.
However, there are ways to save money on food expenses. For example, you can pack your own food and snacks or cook meals in your accommodation if it has a kitchenette.
Activities
Lastly, activities are another expense to consider. America has numerous national parks, museums, and attractions that are worth visiting but often come with admission fees. On average, expect to pay around $10-30 per attraction per person.
Conclusion
So how much does it cost to go on a road trip across America? Assuming you’re driving your own car and staying in hotels while eating out for every meal and visiting attractions along the way, expect to pay around $4,000-5,000 for a 30-day trip. However, keep in mind that costs can vary depending on your travel style and preferences.
By planning ahead and budgeting accordingly, you can make your road trip across America a memorable and affordable adventure!