Savvy Ways to Save Money on Your Summer Road Trip

Years ago when you wanted to save money on a summer vacation, driving was the easy decision. Not only could you take in the all sights, but you also had the flexibility to stop at as many destinations as you please. This year, however, families and solo travelers are having second thoughts. Is driving really the more economical choice? Yes and no. Consider these savvy tips to save money on your summer road trip in 2022.

Ways to save on your summer road trip

According to the New York Times, the travel trend for summer 2022 is ‘Go Big’. With COVID-19 cases ebbing across the nation, travelers feel more than ready to prioritize a little R&R this summer. For a number of travelers, that includes packing up the car and setting out on a new adventure. Though venturing is on the agenda, the costs of traveling are overwhelming several families this year. If you plan on taking a summer road trip soon, here are some helpful tips to save extra on ordinary expenses:

Set a budget (and stick with it)

This suggestion may take a little bit of the fun out of a summer road trip, however, planning a budget is key to saving money. Before you book your travels, consider analyzing transportation, accommodation, and entertainment costs of the places you’re going. Compare hotel prices, Airbnb, and other options and book in advance. Chances are you can prevent overspending by organizing ahead of time.

Budget-friendly meals on-the-go

These days, the average cost of everything has gone up, particularly food. In order to avoid overspending this summer, we recommend packing your car with all the essentials. Stock up on fulfilling snacks, easy roadside meals, and water and coffee drinks that can be accessed at all times. This will guarantee you’ll have enough treats to go the extra mile.

Use a travel credit card

Another great tip for summer travelers to consider is using a rewards credit card. Many of the travel cards now allow you to earn cash back on a list of expenses. For example, you could redeem back a percentage of accumulated fuel costs. Using this type of payment will guarantee you rack up points for your travels and save a bit more.

Invest in a national park pass

Interested in exploring more than one national park? Consider purchasing a national park pass to avoid pricey entrance fees. For $80, you can visit more than 2,000 recreational parks within in the U.S. What’s more, it’s valid for the entire year. If you plan right, you can make use of it for your summer road trip in 2023.

Download Hopper for affordable lodging

Applications like Hopper help millions of travelers find a place to stay within budget. All you have to do is download the app on your smartphone and you can book accommodations on the spot. If you’re a last-minute traveler, download HotelTonight to find amazing last minute deals. Oftentimes, you’ll find low rates at some of the top hotels in the nation.

Ready for an adventure?

We hope these recommendations prepare you for an awesome (budget-friendly) summer vacation! Before you hit the highway, make sure to perform a wellness check on your vehicle. See that all liquids are filled, headlights are in good condition, and tires are inflated. Here’s our Car Maintenance Checklist for your Summer Road Trip to help you get started.