How Much Would Cross Country Road Trip Cost?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you planning a cross-country road trip but wondering how much it will cost you? Well, the answer to this question is not as simple as one might think.

The cost of a cross-country road trip can vary depending on several factors such as the duration of the trip, the type of vehicle you are using, the number of people traveling with you, and your preferred route. In this article, we will discuss these factors in detail and help you estimate how much your cross-country road trip would cost.

Factors Affecting The Cost Of Cross-Country Road Trip

Duration Of The Trip

The duration of your road trip is one of the most significant factors affecting its cost. The longer your trip, the more money you will need to spend on food, accommodation, and gas. Therefore, it’s essential to plan your route and itinerary accordingly.

Type Of Vehicle

The type of vehicle you choose for your road trip also plays a crucial role in determining its cost. If you already own a car that’s suitable for long drives, it will be more cost-effective than renting one. However, if you plan on renting a car or an RV for your trip, keep in mind that it will add up to your expenses.

Number Of People Traveling

The more people traveling with you on a cross-country road trip means more expenses on food, accommodation and gas. You might need to opt for larger vehicles or book multiple hotel rooms if there are more people travelling with you.

Preferred Route

Your preferred route can also affect the cost of your cross-country road trip. Some routes have higher gas prices than others; some routes have tolls while others don’t. Therefore researching and planning ahead about these routes can help save some money.

Estimated Cost Of Cross-Country Road Trip

Now that we have discussed the factors affecting the cost of your cross-country road trip let’s estimate how much it would cost.

Assuming you’re using your car, traveling with one partner, and taking a 10-day road trip from New York to Los Angeles via Route 66. Here’s an estimated breakdown of your expenses:

  • Gas: $600
  • Food: $400
  • Accommodation: $800
  • Attractions/Entertainment: $200
  • Total Cost: $2,000

However, if you plan on renting an RV or a car, traveling with more people or prefer a longer route, then the cost will be significantly higher.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cross-country road trips are fun and exciting but can be costly. It’s important to plan ahead and consider all the factors that can affect the cost of your trip. By doing so, you can budget accordingly and enjoy your adventure without worrying about exceeding your finances.