If you're looking for the cheapest road road-trip for you and your pals, you've come to the right place.
Everyone loves a good road trip, but no one likes paying for it. I’ve driven to Seattle, Washington from Huntsville, Texas and back for fun! I love to drive and I love to see new places.
Plane rides are for when you have money, but don’t have time. Road trips are for when you have time and little bit of change in your pocket.
My best friend's sister lives in Seattle, so our housing was taken care of. We made our own meals on the way and while we were there, and we honestly had the most fun driving. We rotated driving, split the gas bill and had so much fun exploring the mountains.
My next road trip will be a week long event, as Seattle only took about two days. Two others and myself will be driving to California! I have not been yet and I am so excited to.
So how do you start planning a budget-friendly road-trip? I'll tell you.
1. Don't just plan for yourself
By plan, I mean don't automatically assume you're the only one paying. In the end, the bill is split. So invite everyone you can, and even if it's you and two people, it can still be super fun and cheap.
If you’re worried about space in the vehicle, pack light, and rotate who drives so people aren’t too cramped in the back the whole way. The more peeps you take, the less the gas bill will be per person.
2. Take advantage of great gas mileage.
I drive a Hyundai Elantra, her name is Ethel, and she gets an average 41 miles to the gallon on the highway and an average of 36 when I'm in town. The newer cars of course will save you so much money! Road trips are way easier when you only have to pay $25 for gas each time you fill up.
If you’re saying, “That depends on how many times you full up.” False. You can go close to 500 miles on one tank in Ethel and that will get you farther than you think.
3. Housing.
If you have family in other states/countries take full advantage. If they don't want you to stay, then you have fam problems that need to get worked out elsewhere. But, in the event they're super welcoming, that's an Airbnb or hotel/motel you don't have to use.
4. Airbnb.
People, this is a God-send. It is available pretty much everywhere and they're cheap, nice, and you can choose a private room or entire home. The hosts are so kind and willing to work with you. It's just an amazing way to see the world.
5. Paying for fun stuff too??
Additional money is for you to decide. Whether it be for fancy food, random mall trips, or just being out an about and getting something, extra money is all on you (your choice).
In the case you're broke from attempting to see the world (aka me) I suggest going to Sams Club and buying in bulk those microwavable mac-n-cheese bowls or ramen (just bring a bowl), because there are microwaves in a lot of gas stations and all of the Airbnb homes, obviously, have one.
If you have accses to a full kitchen in your hosts home, go to HEB and get the $1 pasta boxes, they are so good. You’ll thank me later.
P.S. If you are interested in how to travel for cheap in other countries (mainly Europe) stay tuned for next weeks article.
