How Much Money Should I Bring for Food on a Road Trip?

By Anna Duncan

Are you planning a road trip? One of the most important things to consider is how much money you should bring for food.

Food is not just a necessity but also a significant part of the road trip experience. You don’t want to be caught hungry or overspending on food, so it’s essential to plan and budget accordingly. Here are some tips on how much money you should bring for food on a road trip.

Plan your route and stops

Before leaving, plan your route and stops. This will help you estimate how many meals you’ll need to purchase along the way. Research the restaurants and grocery stores in the areas you’ll be passing through to get an idea of their prices.

Consider your eating habits

Everyone has different eating habits, so take that into account when planning your budget. Do you prefer fast food or sit-down restaurants?

Do you have any dietary restrictions? Are you willing to cook some meals yourself?

Calculate an average meal cost

Once you have an idea of where and how often you’ll be eating, calculate an average meal cost for each person in your group. This can vary greatly depending on your location and eating preferences, but a good rule of thumb is to budget around $10-15 per meal per person.

Pack snacks and drinks

Bringing snacks and drinks can save you money on impulse purchases at gas stations or convenience stores. Stock up on non-perishable items like granola bars, trail mix, nuts, and dried fruit.

Consider cooking some meals

If your road trip includes camping or staying in accommodations with kitchen facilities, consider cooking some meals yourself. This can save you a lot of money compared to eating out all the time. Plan ahead by packing ingredients like pasta, rice, canned goods, and spices.

Don’t forget about tipping

When eating out, don’t forget to factor in the cost of tipping. A good rule of thumb is to tip around 15-20% of the total bill.

Final thoughts

In summary, how much money you should bring for food on a road trip depends on several factors like your eating habits, route, and whether you plan to cook some meals yourself. Budgeting around $10-15 per meal per person is a good starting point.

Bringing snacks and drinks, cooking some meals, and factoring in the cost of tipping can also help you save money. With proper planning and budgeting, you can enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank on your road trip.