Traveling can be a fun and memorable experience that brings you to new locations and forms memories that can last a lifetime. Taking a road trip with your family car is the perfect way to skip the hassle of airfare and save a lot of money in the process. To make the most out of a trip, forming budget ahead of time can be a great way to save large amounts of money and make the most out of your stay away from home. Down below we have tapered down our experience to 8 road trip tips to help you save money while traveling!
Prepare snacks for the road
Food is going to be an expensive part of the trip and occupy a large portion of your budget. Packing a stock of snacks before heading out onto the highway can save a lot of money and offer healthier more enjoyable options. While on long journeys, pit stops are inevitable, and avoiding buying vending machine beverages and/or treats can free up a significant amount of money in your budget.
Give your car a pre-trip checkup
Having your car’s oil and fluids up to date can reduce the chance of a breakdown and increase the overall efficiency of your engine runs at while on the drive. The service staff at Robert Loehr Chrysler Jeep Ram (Cartersville, GA) suggest to check the tire pressure on the day of departure as well and level them out accordingly which can make a big difference in fuel consumption over a long drive.
Drive the speed-limit
Maintaining a driving speed between 50-60 mph is the most efficient and safe driving speed while on the highway. Driving above 60 mph drastically increases fuel consumption due to the engine working at higher rpm and requiring more fuel to maintain that rate. Try to avoid huge bouts of traffic or back roads where decelerating significantly or stopping completely is a common occurrence in order to save some additional fuel. Driving the speed limit and following traffic laws of the area also ensures that you will avoid the chance of receiving a ticket, which will take a chunk out of your trip’s budget and can increase the cost of insurance.
Obtain an EZ Pass
If you plan on driving on the highway where tunnels, bridges or toll plazas occur, you can end up saving a significant amount of money in toll costs while on a trip. Navigating through tolls without having to stop saves some fuel and convenience while on a long drive. These transponders also conveniently link up directly to your bank account, avoiding unnecessary fees and hassle with paying them later.
Plan out parking ahead of time
Just as you need a place to sleep and rest once you arrive at your destination, so does your car. If you are staying at a hotel or other accommodation, knowing where your car can park and how much it will cost ahead of time can help you budget and plan accordingly. Knowing backup plans in case of construction or big events will save you time, effort as well as gas while sorting out where your car can take a break.
Investigate lodging options
Hotels can be very expensive and offer limited room and accommodations for their guests. Often times there are many surrounding alternatives that both provide a lower overall cost and better experience such as Airbnb. Staying in a home or apartment can make the stay more comfortable and significantly cheaper. Hosts are often more than welcome to share any local tips or hotspots with you to make your visit that much better. Often times alternative locations will also offer convenient and free parking for your vehicle with information on public transportation which can save money and gas.
Save money on meals
Frequenting tourist-traps or fast-food locations can add up money very rapidly and drain your wallet more than you expect. Check out surrounding local restaurants and investigate the menus to see pricings to plan both healthier and less expensive meals. Call your lodging ahead of time to ask about local dining options that they would advise and places to avoid to ensure you have the best and most cost effective experience while on the trip. If you are staying in an apartment or home while on your trip, see if you can cook a few meals for family and involve the hosts to split costs and experience the local cuisine.