Planning a road trip to Colorado can be an exciting adventure, but it’s important to have a solid budget in place before embarking on the journey. With so many amazing sights and activities to experience in this beautiful state, it can be challenging to determine how much money you’ll need to save for your trip. In this article, we’ll break down the average costs of a road trip to Colorado and provide tips on how to save money along the way.
Transportation Costs
One of the biggest expenses for any road trip is transportation costs. Depending on where you’re traveling from, you may need to factor in gas, rental car fees, or airfare.
If driving, estimating gas costs can be tricky as it depends on your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and the distance you’ll be traveling. However, a good rule of thumb is to budget at least $50 per day for gas.
If renting a car or flying into Colorado, make sure to research prices ahead of time and compare different options to find the best deal. Rental car fees can vary widely depending on the type of vehicle and rental length. Airfare prices also fluctuate based on when you book your tickets and travel dates.
Accommodation Costs
Another significant expense for any road trip is accommodation costs. Depending on your preferences and budget, there are several options available such as hotels, motels, vacation rentals or even camping sites.
If you’re looking for affordable accommodations during your stay in Colorado, consider staying at hostels or campgrounds which offer low-cost amenities without compromising comfort levels.
On average, expect to pay around $100 per night for mid-range hotels/motels while luxury hotels will cost over $200 per night.
Food Costs
Food expenses can add up quickly during a road trip if not planned properly; eating out every meal can add up quickly! A great way to save money on food is by packing snacks and meals for the road. You can also consider cooking meals at your accommodation if it has a kitchen.
If you do eat out, look for restaurants that offer affordable options or have specials. On average, expect to spend around $15-$20 per meal per person.
Activity Costs
Colorado is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and sightseeing. Activities fees vary widely depending on what you decide to do; for instance, a day lift ticket for skiing can cost over $100 while hiking trails are free. Research different activities ahead of time and factor in costs so you know what to expect.
Conclusion
Overall, the cost of a road trip to Colorado varies greatly depending on your preferences and budget. However, as a rough estimate, you should budget around $150-$200 per day per person for transportation, accommodation, food and activities costs combined.
By doing your research ahead of time and planning carefully, you can save money along the way without sacrificing your experience in this beautiful state!