Have you always wanted to go on a road trip, but didn’t think you could afford it? Here are some tips on how to help save on an adventure.
1. Drive in a hybrid.
Hybrids have extremely low gas mileage which will end up saving you a considerable amount of money. Even though they are cramped, they are still the best option if you are strapped for cash. If you don’t have a hybrid, make sure to take a car which has the least amount of gallons per mile since you’ll probably be putting a lot of miles on your car.
2. Invite the most people that can fit in the car of your choice.
While it may be cramped, it will definitely save a lot of money for everyone. The people on the trip can split the money for gas, groceries, rooms, firewood, etc. While it may seem like a bad decision at the beginning of the trip, eventually you’ll get used to all the company and realize tht you made the best decision.
3. Camp and stay at relatives/friends’ houses as much as you can.
Sleeping in a hotel room every night can become extremely expensive, even when split amongst many girls. Plan your trip around relatives’ houses and camp sites. Although sleeping in a tent can be troublesome, sometimes you have to sacrifice for the team and the money. It’s definitely a bonding experience and adds to the road trip experience.
4. Buy groceries and make the food yourself.
Eating out constantly will add up, not only on the calories you consume, but also on costs. A camping stove would be an easy way to solve the problems. Although it might mean you’d have to make some of your food outside of a hotel room, it certainly saves a lot of money, with weekly grocery totals for five girls totally around two hundred dollars.
5. Plan out activities that are free or inexpensive.
Going to national and state parks can save a lot of money because of all the free hiking trails, ranger talks, and other programs. Also, fun activities like doing something in each state that the state is known for can be cheap. For example, eat a peach in Georgia or volunteer in Tennessee.
6. Take advantage of group rates.
Usually group rates are offered for four or more people. Abusing the discounts can make doing fun, expensive things more affordable. When deciding on an activity make sure to ask the businesses if they have group rates and research which business presents the best deal.
So if you haven’t already, go out, gather some friends, and get packing for a road trip because the memories will last you a lifetime.
