Road tripping cross country is an exciting and memorable experience that many people dream of doing. However, the cost of such a trip is often a major concern for travelers. In this article, we’ll break down the various expenses you can expect when road tripping across the United States.
Vehicle Expenses
The first expense to consider is your vehicle. If you already have a reliable car, you may be able to use it for your trip. However, if you don’t own a car or your current vehicle isn’t suitable for long distance travel, you’ll need to rent or buy one.
- Rental Car: The cost of renting a car will depend on the type of vehicle you choose and the length of your rental period. On average, expect to pay anywhere from $30-$100 per day.
- New Car: If you decide to purchase a new car for your road trip, costs can vary greatly depending on make and model.
Be prepared to spend at least $15,000-$20,000.
- Used Car: Buying a used car is often more affordable than purchasing new. You can find reliable vehicles for as little as $5,000.
Fuel Costs
Fuel costs will likely be one of your biggest expenses during a cross country road trip. The amount you’ll spend on gas will depend on several factors such as fuel efficiency, distance traveled per day and gas prices in different regions.
Tips for reducing fuel costs:
- Drive Smarter: Avoid sudden acceleration or braking and try to maintain a consistent speed.
- Maintain Your Vehicle: Regular maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations can improve fuel efficiency.
- Use a Gas App: Apps like GasBuddy can help you find the cheapest gas prices in your area.
Lodging and Food Expenses
When it comes to lodging and food, there are several options available depending on your budget and preferences.
Lodging Options:
- Camping: If you enjoy the great outdoors, camping is an affordable option. Expect to pay around $20-$50 per night for a campsite.
- Hotels/Motels: The cost of hotels and motels will vary depending on the location and amenities.
On average, expect to pay $80-$150 per night.
- Airbnb: Renting a room or entire home through Airbnb can be more affordable than staying in a hotel. Prices vary greatly depending on the location and type of accommodation.
Food Options:
- Groceries: Buying groceries and cooking your own meals can save you a lot of money. Plan to spend around $50-$100 per week on groceries.
- Dining Out: If you prefer to eat out, expect to spend around $10-$20 per meal at fast food restaurants, or $30-$50 per meal at sit-down restaurants.
Miscellaneous Expenses
In addition to the above expenses, there are several other costs that may arise during your road trip.
Miscellaneous Expenses Include:
- Tolls: Depending on your route, you may encounter toll roads that require payment.
- Parking: Parking fees can add up quickly in big cities. Plan to spend around $20-$30 per day on parking.
- Attractions: Visiting attractions like museums or theme parks will require additional expenses. Prices vary greatly depending on the attraction.
Total Cost Estimate
Overall, the cost of a cross country road trip can vary greatly depending on your choices and preferences. However, here is a rough estimate of what you can expect to pay:
- Rental Car: $900-$3000+
- New Car: $15,000-$20,000+
- Used Car: $5,000+
- Fuel Costs: $500-$1000+
- Lodging: $20-$150 per night
- Food: $50-$100 per week for groceries or $10-$50 per meal dining out
- Miscellaneous Expenses: Varies greatly depending on choices and locations visited
The Bottom Line
While a cross country road trip may seem expensive at first glance, there are ways to make it more affordable. By carefully planning your route and making smart choices when it comes to lodging, food and transportation, you can have an unforgettable adventure without breaking the bank.