Summer is here, you’ve got your playlists ready, and that wanderlust is hitting hard. You might be FOMO-ing on international travel by seeing reels all over your Instagram feed, but you know it can be expensive and crowded during peak season. That’s why road trips are making a comeback. With the right prep, they’re not only easier on your bank account but can be way more fulfilling, too.
If you’re dreaming of winding highways with the wind in your hair, roadside diners, and gorgeous golden hour moments, here’s how to make your summer road trip awesome and affordable.
Why Road Trips Are Awesome
Sure, seeing Japan in its neon light glory or seeing how real Parmesan is made in Italy is cool, but road trips have a vibe that global destinations can’t always offer.
- Flexibility: If you want to stay an extra night by the lake, you can. There are no rigid itineraries!
- Savings: No expensive flights, no currency exchange, and no “tourist tax” surprises.
- Hidden Gems: The freedom to explore will most likely lead you to quirky roadside attractions, indie coffee shops, and hidden stunning views.
- Connection: Whether you’re going solo, with friends, or with a loved one, it’s quality time to have deep convos, fun karaoke, and silly times galore.
Road Trip Savings Tips
Alright, so let’s talk about money! Road tripping can be affordable, but only if you’re smart about it. Here are some tips to stretch your money without missing out on the fun.
1. Play Your Route, But Keep It Loose
You can use an app like Roadtrippers (free 7-day trial) or Google Maps (free!) to plan your route. Consider rest stops, scenic areas, and cities that offer more affordable lodgings. You want to avoid zigzagging on the route to save gas, but build in the flexibility in case you end up liking a spot and want to stay longer.
2. Budget for Gas
A free app like GasBuddy can help you find the cheapest gas on your route. Also, consider driving during off-peak hours to avoid wasting gas sitting in traffic, like starting your day much earlier than rush hour. Cruise control and driving at a consistent speed can also help with fuel efficiency.
3. Sleeping Smart
To save money on accommodations, look into potential camping (Hipcamp or national parks), affordable Airbnb or motels, or even better, staying with friends and family along your road trip route.
You can also go full camper van life, where you can both drive and sleep inside your vehicle for ultimate flexibility. Just make sure that wherever you park overnight is legal and safe, as you might need a permit to stay on the grounds!
4. Pack Your Own Meals and Snacks
Part of the road trip fun is experiencing some unique diners, but you can also supplement meals and snacks with grocery trips to save money here and there. Pack a cooler with snacks, drinks, and a few pre-made meals to save cash and give yourself some healthier options while on the road.
When my husband and I were road tripping in Northern California and had access to a kitchen, we loved visiting the neighborhood grocery market to find locally grown produce, meat, and rich ice cream, as we knew we wouldn’t be able to get it back home! It felt more satisfying to cook a meal, and it was healthier and cheaper, too!
5. Find Free Activities
Nature is free and gorgeous. Find national parks, hiking trails, beaches, and local festivals that are affordable or free along the way. Make those photo memories! Bring some books, and take time to enjoy the areas you’re visiting instead of being in go-go-go mode.
Road Trip Safety Tips
Don’t skip out on making your drive as safe as possible! Here are a few tips:
- Get your car checked: Have a proper oil change, inspect tire pressure, and check brakes, etc., to ensure your car is road trip ready. Depending on the distance you’ll go, consider renting a car as well, since it can save your personal vehicle from the wear and tear of the trip.
- Include an emergency kit: Pack jumper cables, a first aid kit, water, a flashlight, and a power bank so your phones can be charged. Look into solar-powered power banks, too, if you won’t have too many outlets to charge.
- Download offline maps: I do this for every trip, regardless of whether it’s a road trip. Downloading the offline map version is so helpful when the service is spotty.
- Tell someone where you’re going: Just in case, let a loved one know your general route.
- Don’t drive when tired: If road-tripping with a partner, take turns driving whenever possible. Or rest when you’re solo and tired. Too many accidents can happen when you’re sleepy behind the wheel.
- Look into crime rates: When you’re driving through so many cities, be aware of the crime rate, especially in the towns you’re staying overnight in. You can utilize sites like SpotCrime or CrimeMapping to access data, real-time information, and alerts to make more decisions about your route.
- Keep valuables out of sight: The same rules apply on the road and at home; keep your belongings out of sight so you don’t tempt any thieves’ eyes. We also avoid opening the trunk too much, as you never know if you’re being watched or followed!
Extra Ways to Save
Here are some other things to think about that can add to the savings.
- Spotify Premium & Podcasts: I have a basic family plan ($16.99 for 6 people vs $11.99 for 1 person), and it’s completely worth it for ad-free music as well as interesting podcasts. Depending on your plan, it can even include audiobooks. Music is an essential part of a road trip!
- National Park Pass: If you’re stopping at more than 2 national parks, then the pass will be worth it!
- Split costs: More people = more shared costs on gas, lodging, and food, so consider traveling with a partner or more to save.
- Travel midweek: Gas prices and accommodations tend to be cheaper between Sunday and Thursday, so you can factor that into your route and budget.
The Money Move
You don’t need a passport or a fancy trip lined up to have an unforgettable summer. With some planning, awesome music, and the curiosity to have an adventure, road trips can offer a lot more freedom and less financial stress than other types of travel.
Hit the coast, climb mountains, or cruise through small towns; a fantastic road trip adventure is out there waiting for you this summer!