I’m often asked how I can afford to travel so much, so I will share my tips for saving money on every road trip! We know road trips are an exciting way to explore new places, create lasting memories, and experience the freedom of the open road. However, they can also come with a hefty price tag if you’re not careful. Gas, food, accommodations, and activities can quickly add up, leaving you with a bigger bill than you expected. But don’t worry! With a little planning and a few clever tips, you can save money and still have an unforgettable journey. Here’s how to make your next road trip budget-friendly.

Budgeting

The most important part of any trip is to set a budget and stick with it! Planning your route in advance can save you time, money, and gas. I use apps like Google Maps, Waze, GasBuddy and Upside to find the most efficient routes and to monitor gas prices along my journey. GasBuddy and Upside can help you locate the cheapest gas stations along your route, allowing you to fill up in more affordable areas and avoid paying premium prices in tourist-heavy regions. I also use Google Calendar to plan my trip and the things I want to do while on the trip. I look up the cost of each activity and schedule it in my Google notes, which allows me to know the exact amount I need for that trip. I include all cost!

Pro Tip: Consider using apps that show you gas prices at different stations along the highway. GasBuddy or even the Upside app lets you compare prices and find the best deal in real-time. I cannot stress this enough, make sure you are using the gas discounts! I use Upside which is an app that allows you to earn cash back at certain gas stations, restaurants, and convenience stores. If you want to sign up for Upside you can use my code LANA92939. I cash Upside in before big trips to help cover the cost of gas and it truly helps! Many gas stations offer their own reward programs that give you 3-10 cent off on the gallon which can add up.

Lodging

I really enjoy boondocking which allows for free camping, I use iOverlander 2 an app that helps you find places to stay. I also use campgrounds, mostly using recreation.gov and AirBNBs. After what happened in August 2024 I don’t know that I will stay at another hotel. From my experience, the Airbnbs have been nicer and cheaper than the hotels I have booked in the past. An example of this is the Hotel I booked in August was $167 for a double queen bed room with just a mini fridge and bathroom. That room canceled on me and left me with nowhere to stay. I ended up finding a private cottage on Airbnb for $138, it had a huge bedroom, a living room, a full kitchen, and a bathroom. It also included a private garden with access to fresh avocados. It was truly tranquil, unlike the more expensive hotel that had people blasting music outside. I have used Airbnb for a few years, that was just a recent experience.

Pro Tip: If you plan to camp, reserve your spot early, especially during peak travel seasons. Popular campgrounds can fill up fast, and booking in advance ensures you get a great spot at a lower price.

Food and Snacks

I always pack meals and snacks because it saves so much money! If I do end up stopping for a snack I’ll run into a Dollar Tree or Dollar General, they are so easy to find with great prices. My favorite though is packing the cooler full before I leave so it’s quick access to the road. I always pack salads in mason jars, energy bits, breakfast cookies, fruits, drinks, etc. If I do plan on getting a meal or so while on a road trip, I plan it in the budget. Being gluten-free it can be hard to find food I can eat in some areas so it’s always best for me to make the food to take. Packing your own food not only helps you stick to your budget but also gives you more control over what you’re eating (hello healthier options!).

Pro Tip: Pre-pack meals like salads, wraps, or even simple sandwiches. Granola bars, nuts, and fresh fruit are great for quick snacks that are easy to eat on the go.

Take Advantage of Free Activities

Not every activity on your road trip has to be paid for. Many parks, hiking trails, beaches, and public landmarks are free to visit. Take advantage of these low-cost (or no-cost) experiences to explore the outdoors, soak in the scenery, and enjoy what nature has to offer. Often, a simple walk, scenic drive, or visit to a free museum can be just as fulfilling as a pricey activity.

Pro Tip: Look for free or donation-based activities along your route, such as local art galleries, community events, or outdoor festivals.

Avoid Tolls When Possible

Tolls can quickly add up on long road trips, especially if you’re driving through states that have high toll rates. Use your GPS or apps like Waze to find toll-free routes, or set your GPS to “avoid tolls” when planning your trip. You might have to take a slightly longer route, but it can save you a significant amount of money.

Pro Tip: Some states offer toll passes or apps that allow you to pay discounted rates. If you know you’ll be passing through multiple tolls, it might be worth looking into these options ahead of time.

Souvenirs

If you have read any of my blog posts you know I highly recommend getting stamps, coins, or postcards from places especially if you go to a National Park however, another favorite of mine is the penny press pennies! You can get nice souvenirs without breaking the bank. Be sure to take plenty of photos too because those memories are the best souvenirs!

Pro Tip: Take a bullet journal with you to capture the memories and serve as a National Park Stamp Book.

Plan for Car Maintenance and Emergency Costs

Avoid unexpected car problems by keeping your vehicle in good shape before embarking on your trip. Check tire pressure, oil levels, and coolant. Regular maintenance can prevent costly breakdowns, which could disrupt your trip and cost more in repairs.

Pro Tip: Set aside a small emergency fund for unexpected repairs or issues that might arise on the road. A flat tire, for example, can lead to expenses if you’re far from home and need assistance.

Saving Money

My last tip is to save money, save your coins, save your dollars! Make a jar and save it, you will be surprised how quickly it adds up. I also have some gaming apps that I use to help me save like Mistplay, back in August I started using Mistplay within a couple of weeks I had enough for $45 that I ended up using for gas on my Florida trip. I also use Evation which is a health app that allows you to earn money through steps, food tracking, etc. Now you might think that doesn’t sound like much however, on my August trip I had saved through my apps and gas rewards that I ended up with $104.92 in FREE cash! So a trip from my house to Florida ended up costing me $114.10 out of pocket instead of $219.02!

Final Thought

Road trips don’t have to break the bank. With a little bit of preparation and some smart money-saving strategies, you can explore new places, enjoy the journey, and keep your budget in check. From packing your own meals to taking advantage of free activities, there are plenty of ways to cut costs while still having an incredible time. So, start planning your road trip and hit the road without the financial stress!