How Much Money Do I Need for a Road Trip to California?

By Anna Duncan

Are you planning a road trip to California? One of the most important aspects of planning any trip is budgeting.

So, how much money do you need for a road trip to California? Let’s break it down.

Transportation

The cost of transportation will depend on where you’re starting from and how far you plan on driving. If you’re starting from within California, then you won’t have to worry about airfare or renting a car. However, if you’re coming from out of state, then you’ll need to factor in the cost of airfare or rental car fees.

Once you arrive in California, the cost of gas will be your biggest transportation expense. Gas prices vary across the state, but as of 2021, the average price per gallon is around $4.00. You can use online tools like GasBuddy to estimate how much you’ll spend on gas based on your route and vehicle’s fuel efficiency.

Lodging

Lodging costs will vary depending on your preferences and budget. If you’re on a tight budget, camping could be an affordable alternative to hotels or vacation rentals. California has plenty of beautiful campgrounds that offer stunning views and amenities like showers and restrooms.

If camping isn’t your thing, then there are plenty of other lodging options available such as hotels, motels, and vacation rentals. The cost will depend on location and amenities but expect to pay anywhere from $50-$200 per night.

Food

Food costs can add up quickly if you’re not careful. Eating out at restaurants every meal can get expensive fast so consider packing snacks and meals for the road trip. Plan stops at grocery stores along the way so that you can stock up on food supplies.

If you do decide to eat out, look for local eateries instead of big chain restaurants as they tend to be more affordable. You can also save money by ordering water instead of pricey drinks and opting for lunch specials or meal deals.

Activities

Finally, you’ll want to budget for any activities you plan on doing during your road trip. California has plenty of free activities like hiking, visiting beaches, and exploring parks. However, if you plan on doing paid activities like visiting theme parks or museums, then factor those costs into your budget.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the total cost of a road trip to California will depend on your transportation, lodging, food, and activity choices. On average, a 7-day road trip could cost anywhere from $500 to $1500 per person excluding airfare or rental car fees. By budgeting wisely and making smart choices along the way, you can make sure that you stay within your budget while still having an amazing time exploring the Golden State!