Are you planning a road trip across the United States? It’s an exciting adventure, but it’s important to plan your budget before hitting the road. In this article, we will discuss how much it costs to road trip the USA.
Transportation Costs
The first thing to consider is how you will travel. If you have your own vehicle, the cost of gas will be your main expense. Gas prices vary depending on the state and time of year, but on average expect to pay around $3 per gallon.
If you don’t have a car or prefer not to drive, renting an RV or car is an option. RV rentals can cost anywhere from $50 to $300 per day, while car rentals are typically around $50 per day.
Lodging Costs
Next up is where you’ll sleep. Accommodation costs can add up quickly, especially if you’re staying in hotels every night. On average, a budget hotel room costs around $100 per night, while a mid-range hotel room can cost up to $200 per night.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, camping is a great choice. National parks and forests offer campsites for as little as $10 per night. You can also find free camping spots on Bureau of Land Management land or through apps like iOverlander.
Food Costs
Eating out at restaurants can be costly, especially if you’re doing it every day. Fast food meals typically cost around $7-10 each, while sit-down restaurants are closer to $15-20 per meal.
To save money on food expenses, consider cooking your meals in an RV or camping stove. You can also stock up on groceries at Walmart or other Supermarkets for around $50-75 per week.
Activity Costs
Finally, there are activity costs to consider. This includes things like entrance fees to national parks, amusement parks, and museums. Entrance fees to national parks are typically around $30 per vehicle, while amusement park tickets can cost up to $100 per person.
To save money on activities, consider visiting free attractions or taking advantage of discounts. Many attractions offer discounts for students, seniors, and members of certain organizations.
Overall Costs
So how much does it cost to road trip the USA? On average, expect to spend around $150-200 per day for a budget road trip with an RV or car rental. This includes transportation costs, lodging costs, food costs, and activity costs.
Of course, your actual expenses will vary depending on your travel style and the duration of your trip. By planning ahead and being mindful of your spending, you can enjoy an unforgettable road trip without breaking the bank.
Summary
– Gas prices average around $3 per gallon
– RV rentals can cost anywhere from $50 to $300 per day
– Budget hotel rooms cost around $100 per night
– Camping sites start at $10 per night
– Fast food meals are around $7-$10 each
– National park entrance fees are typically around $30 per vehicle
– Expect to spend around $150-$200 per day for a budget road trip with an RV or car rental
Happy travels!