Road tripping across America is a dream for many of us. The vast and diverse landscapes, the freedom of the open road, and the excitement of discovering new places make it an adventure of a lifetime. However, one question that always comes up is – how much money does it cost to road trip across America?
The Cost of Accommodation
Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses when it comes to road tripping. There are various options to choose from, including hotels, motels, campgrounds or RV parks.
The average cost of a hotel room in the US is around $130 per night. Motels are slightly cheaper with an average cost of around $100 per night. Campgrounds and RV parks are the most budget-friendly options with an average cost of around $30 per night.
The Cost of Food
Food is another significant expense when it comes to road tripping. Eating out can be expensive in some parts of the country, so it’s a good idea to pack some snacks and drinks for the road.
Fast food restaurants can be found all over America and offer cheap meals for under $10 per person. Local diners and cafes are also great options for budget-friendly meals.
- Fast food: $5-10 per meal
- Cafes/Diners: $10-15 per meal
- Groceries: $50-70 per week (depending on how many people you’re feeding)
The Cost of Gasoline
Gasoline is a significant expense when it comes to road tripping across America. Gas prices vary depending on where you are in the country, but on average, gas costs around $2.50-$3 per gallon. A full tank can last for about 300-400 miles.
The Cost of Attractions
America is filled with amazing attractions, from National Parks to theme parks. The cost of attractions can vary greatly depending on where you are and what you want to see. National Parks cost around $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass, while theme parks like Disney World can cost upwards of $100 per person per day.
The Cost of Miscellaneous Expenses
Miscellaneous expenses can add up quickly, so it’s important to keep track of them. These expenses include tolls, parking fees, and souvenirs. Tolls can range from a few dollars to over $20 depending on the location and type of toll road.
Conclusion
Overall, the cost of road tripping across America varies greatly depending on your travel style and preferences. However, a rough estimate would be around $100-$150 per day for accommodation, food, gas and miscellaneous expenses.
Of course, this doesn’t include the cost of attractions, which can significantly increase the total cost. But with proper planning and budgeting, road tripping across America can be an affordable adventure that you’ll never forget!