The New, Old-Fashioned Road Trip

Our parents and grandparents knew a thing or two about how to take a budget-friendly road trip. They knew where to find the best rest stops, roadside diners, and the world’s biggest ball of twine. Road trips have come a long way, and are still an economical way to see the country. With some new tools and old-fashioned wisdom, along with our top ten list, you can plan a safe, low-cost, and fun road trip.

1. Plan Ahead to Save

To find the best rates on lodging, food, gas, and activities, try to avoid peak travel windows and big cities. There are great online and mobile tools to help you plan a multi-stop driving trip, from free apps like Roadtripper to familiar online sites like Google Maps and MapQuest.

2. Be Tech-Savvy

When looking at recommendations on an app or website, be aware of how the organization chooses its properties, products, or activities to include in their ratings and how those ratings are displayed. Look for “affiliate link” disclosures, required by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), letting you know that the website or app owner gets paid if you click a link. Also, look for banners, icons, or labels on search results listed as “recommended” or “featured.” These are hints that the search result order could be based on some criteria that benefits the site.

3. Roll Responsibly for Safety and Savings

Make sure your vehicle is road-ready, both for your safety and to avoid costly breakdowns. Don’t forget to pack your car manual and a car safety kit, and know what roadside assistance options you have. Know what seasonal weather can affect your travel route—there are websites and apps with real-time information on storms, snowfalls, and forest fires—and check with the department of transportation for updates on road conditions. Also, carry paper maps or atlases as a backup to your GPS just in case.

4. Don’t Guzzle Gas

Make sure your vehicle is road-ready, both for your safety and to avoid costly breakdowns. Don’t forget to pack your car manual and a car safety kit, and know what roadside assistance options you have. Know what seasonal weather can affect your travel route—there are websites and apps with real-time information on storms, snowfalls, and forest fires—and check with the department of transportation for updates on road conditions. Also, carry paper maps or atlases as a backup to your GPS just in case.

5. Hunt for Cheaper Lodging

Look away from tourist areas and big cities to find better hotel rates, and see if you have hotel points to use. When comparing options and before booking, check that you know the full cost (including all fees), and know what features and fees help or hinder your budget.

6. Consider the Whole Family

Consider the likes and dislikes of everyone to keep discontentment low. That includes meals, snacks, entertainment, and pit stops. When to take breaks and where can ease tensions that might arise from long hours in close quarters. Your pets are part of the family too! Don’t forget to plan for them. Look into hotels and attractions that accommodate your furry friends and ask about pet fees, restrictions, and even parking costs.

7. Pack Food for Cheaper Chow

To make the most of your budget, make dining out an occasional treat. Bring refillable water bottles. Pack a coffee thermos and your favorite brew. Bring a cooler, pack extra-large zip-top bags to replenish ice and keep food cool, and bring re-usable bags for snacks for the road. Bring non-perishable snacks and meals that work for the cooking options you’ll have. Restock at grocery stores instead of a convenience stores for better prices.

8. Find Free Fun

Check out websites with free event listings for your stops and destination. For museums or parks with admission fees, see if they have a free day or if there are passes that allow you to see more for less. Free apps, travel blogs, and websites can take the place of expensive tours. And for staying entertained on the road, use your library card and get Libby, the app most libraries use to give you easy access to downloadable content.

9. Plan for Emergencies

Not every store takes credit cards, especially outside of major cities, so consider carrying enough cash to cover a tank of gas, an extra meal, or other necessities. Pack a first aid kit and stock up on first aid knowledge from a trusted source. Check with your health insurance provider about covered health care providers in your travel area, and, if available, download the telehealth app used by your doctor or health insurance company.

10. Know Where You’re Headed

Research your destination place(s) to get a feeling for what those areas have experienced in recent months and what they can offer you and your traveling companions. Have they been in the news? Where are the tourist spots? Are residents known for keeping to themselves or welcoming visitors? How will you explore the city? You might consider walking or trying out public transportation. However you decide to take in your destination, a little research beforehand can make for a better experience.