3 month road trip usa budget

• Philippines
• South Korea
• National Parks
• Travel Stories
• How Much Does It Actually Cost to Travel the World?
• What’s In My Backpack: The Ultimate Long-Term Travel Packing List
• My Favorite Non-Fiction Travel Books
• All Budget Travel Resources
• Writing Portfolio

Travel the U.S. for $30 A Day: The Ultimate Budget USA Road Trip

This post may contain affiliate links. This just means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you for helping them promote their product or service. I don’t endorse any services I don’t personally use or recommend.

Budgeting for a road trip can be difficult. Food, gas, parking, groceries, restaurants, much-needed coffee stops, all adds up. Especially if you’re planning to take on a route as large as the entire United States. But traveling in a van is the perfect way to do a budget USA road trip.

We traveled the United States for three months in our converted camper van Phoebe. She’s nothing fancy–Just a 1994 Dodge Ram Van that we laboriously dismantled and converted one summer. She has a massive bed, kitchenette, and a table with a u-shaped bench. We set out to explore America’s National Parks and also to sample all the best (& underrated) American food .

& we spent more than we had originally planned.

I recorded every single transaction. From the $0.44 water refills to the $75 gas tank fill-ups so that you can have an educated guess on your own cross-country road trip expenses.

& so that you can understand exactly what van life costs before you make the leap and begin converting your own vehicle. Because there are tons of benefits to van life but it may not be as cheap as you think.

The Ultimate Budget USA Road Trip

Let’s talk logistics.

Where are you headed? Whether your planning to live in your van full time & just want a look at the average expenses of van life or you’re planning an epic cross-country road trip & want to know how much to have in the bank before you go…this post will shed some light on the subject.

But be aware that traveling in cities tends to be more expensive than exploring the more rural areas of the USA. We did a bit of both on this trip.

Best Way to Travel America on a Budget? Van life.

Okay. I might be biased. But van life has changed the road trip game. It’s made it cheaper. More comfortable. & helped me to travel more off-the-beaten-path. But van life isn’t always as glamorous as it’s made out to be. & if you’re on the fence you should test out van/RV travel before you invest in your own rig.

My favorite RV rental company is RVShare. They have rentals all over the U.S. & are a very affordable option ( Van rentals can be so overpriced ). Another perk…they are locally owned RVs which means they are cozier than a generic rental and you’re supporting small businesses.

3-Month USA Road Trip

This specific road trip budget breakdown is from our 3-month USA road trip where we visited every single National Park in the U.S.

If you’re looking for route specifics be sure to check out my blog post on our Great American Foodie Road Trip where I talk about every single place we ate on the road or our Ultimate USA National Park Road Trip Route outlining how we hit every single national park in the United States.

If you want access to our massive master Google Map with 400+ destinations –food stops, roadside attractions, state parks, etc. you can sign up for my email list below & I’ll send you a copy. You won’t even need to plan for your next cross-country road trip.

Our USA Road Trip Budget

We’ve been full-time traveling on a budget for quite some time now. I actually wrote a blog post all about how we traveled the world on a budget of $50 a day . But the U.S. is an expensive place to travel. & we wanted to get the full American Foodie Road Trip experience which meant we would be eating many meals in restaurants.

Our goal for the cross country road was to spend around $50 a day for the both of us.

Spoiler: We missed our mark a little bit. It was a lofty goal. Considering we drove over 18,000 in a vehicle that only got 13ish miles to the gallon.

But honestly, we were pretty damn close. & considering all the amazing food we got to try along the way…100% worth it.

What We Actually Spent on Our Cross Country Road Trip

Let’s break it down item by item. This is where our money went on our 3-month USA road trip.

That comes to a grand total of around $29 per person. About $720 over our total intended budget.

Food & gas were the bulk of our spending since we spent most of our free time exploring National Parks or people-watching in cities.

How We Saved Money on Our Cross Country Road Trip

First, let’s talk about the things we did well.

We NEVER stopped for coffee on the road . Which was painfully difficult sometimes. But I did the calculations and we saved around $500 simply by using our French press every morning instead of hitting the coffee stands.

We cooked the majority of our meals ( despite what our restaurant costs say ) inside the van . A major perk of van living. Groceries are just so much cheaper than eating out.

We used GasBuddy to find the cheapest gas available. When you’re living life on the road gas is a major expense. Especially when your “home” is a gas-guzzling 13mpg (if you’re lucky) tank. We saved on average $10 a fill-up just by choosing gas strategically.

We got a great credit card. Specifically, with gas rewards. We use the Bank of America card Cash Rewards Card and it gave us 3% cashback on gas. Which ended up being about $70 in earnings!

We got the A merica the Beautiful Pass. For $80 it gives you access to every single National Park and Monument in the United States. If you plan on visiting even just 3 of the major national parks it’s worth the money.

We also refused to pay for parking unless ABSOLUTELY necessary and Stealth camped all across the United States. If you’re looking for tips on Stealth Camping you’ll find them here.

& now let’s look at the ways you can spend less money on your road trip across America.

Tips For Spending Less on your Budget-Friendly USA Road Trip

We did a fairly good job at keeping our costs low. But there are a few things we could have done differently on our cross-country road trip to save us even more money!

1. Pick Grocery Stores Strategically

We just shopped wherever was convenient. We didn’t bother learning the budget chains across America & definitely spent more money at fancy organic places like Sprouts and Publix.

2. Eat Out Less Often

Obviously, our restaurant costs were huge. If you want to save more money on the road just cook more meals inside the van. It has a kitchen after all!!

I don’t regret spending the money we did on food across America because I discovered my love for Southern Food. Seriously. If you splurge anywhere…make it the south.

3. Cut out Alcohol

You don’t see it on the budget breakdown but hidden in those grocery and restaurant bills are copious amounts of local beer and cocktails. Post-hiking beers, nightcaps, and brewery stops after a long day of driving. We spent about $775 on alcohol. Pretty much the exact amount we went over-budget.

Cut out ( or cut down ) on alcohol consumption to save a considerable chunk of change.

Planning your budget for a USA road trip is difficult without seeing a budget-breakdown from other travelers. We spent $60 a day or $30 per person per day on our cross-country road trip.

Let me know in the comments if you managed to spend more or less on your last road trip!!

Save This Post For Later!

Further Reading...

12 Outstanding US National Parks to Visit in Spring

High Rock Lookout: Washington’s Best Sunrise Hike (Free Camping tips)

12 Stunning National Parks to Visit in the Summer

No comments, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Sign up to our newsletter!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

How to Survive Living the Van Life with Your Partner

What is cultural travel & how to travel the world immersively., beyond_the_bucketlist.

• Credit cards
• View all credit cards
• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
• Personal finance
• View all personal finance
• Small business
• Small business guide
• View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

This May Be the Cheapest Road Trip in America

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Road trips are a rite of passage for many Americans. These driving adventures are full of roadside attractions, eclectic diners and incredible memories. Yet, with high gas prices, many families are understandably reconsidering their vacation plans.

One way to keep your travel plans intact without breaking the bank is to focus on destinations with the lowest gas prices. We let the data speak for itself when determining where to road trip across America for cheap.

The current state of gas prices across the U.S.

As of Dec. 20, 2022, the average gas price is $3.12, according to data from the American Automobile Association. That's down from the record set in June 2022 at $5.02, but is still uncomfortably high — especially in West Coast states, where prices are typically higher than the average. In California, average gas prices are $4.36.

As expected, the average varies widely across regions of the U.S. And one section of the country is heartily below average, ranging from just $2.61 to $2.82: the Southeast. More specifically, the Gulf Coast has the lowest average gas prices in the U.S.

That makes this region a prime target for cheap road trips, and possibly even cheap rental cars for those travelers coming from far-flung locations. Though the costs of getting there and back from wherever you live might not make this as affordable of a vacation as turning left outside of your neighborhood, the region’s low gas prices might still attract those dedicated to a road trip vacation.

Consider driving the GATOR

You may not have yet heard of the GATOR, but this budget-friendly road trip, which runs along the Gulf Coast of Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana, might just be a route to U-turn toward.

This recommended driving route, more formally referred to as the Gulf Alliance of Tourism Organization Representatives Road Trip, is the invention of Kay Maghan. As the Public Relations Manager of the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism board, she created the regional tourism partnership to "draw attention to the small- and medium-sized towns along the central Gulf Coast that are within a few hours of each other."

Driving the GATOR, road-trippers can experience the local culture unique to the region, including great food, outdoor activities and historical attractions.

And, as Maghan adds, "Alligators."

The GATOR's three-state itinerary can be a great way to road trip for cheap in the U.S. (Image courtesy of the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism Board)

Here are some highlights along a GATOR road trip:

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama: Tropical Falls at OWA theme park, water park and entertainment district.

Mobile, Alabama: USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park.

Coastal Mississippi (Ocean Springs, Biloxi and Bay St. Louis): Betsy Ann Riverboat cruise on the Gulf Coast.

St. Tammany Parish (Slidell), Louisiana: Honey Island Swamp Tours.

Jefferson Parish (Metairie), Louisiana: Wetland Trace Nature Boardwalk.

Lafourche Parish (Thibodaux), Louisiana: The Bayou Lafourche Historic Live Oak Tour.

Terrebone Parish (Houma), Louisiana: Chauvin Sculpture Garden & Art.

Calcasieu and Cameron Parishes (Lake Charles), Louisiana: Creole Nature Trail All-American Road, one of only 57 so designated scenic byways in the U.S.

How to save money on gas

If your travel guide is dog-eared for another road trip destination in the U.S., there are ways to save money on gas so your vacation plans aren’t derailed. Follow these cheap road trip tips.

Don't buy premium fuel, unless required

As of Dec. 20, AAA's data shows that the average gallon of premium fuel costs $0.77 more than regular gas. On a 20-gallon tank, that's an extra $15 every time you fill up.

A separate AAA study found that 70% of U.S. drivers currently own a vehicle that requires regular gasoline compared to just 16% who drive vehicles that require premium fuel.

You might be overspending if you buy higher-octane gas when it's not necessary.

Inspect and inflate your tires

There’s one quick way to derail a cheap road trip: car troubles.

Before heading out on your road trip, inspect your tires to ensure that there aren't any punctures, bald spots or uneven wear. Inflate your tires to the manufacturer's specifications, which are found in the driver's manual or inside the driver's door jamb.

Avoid idling your engine

Drivers are tempted to idle their engines to keep the car cool inside or to warm up the engine. If you aren't driving, shut off the engine, conserve gas and do a little good for the planet, too.

Remove excess weight from your vehicle

Every extra pound in your vehicle requires your engine to work harder to move it down the highway. Instead, pack light and leave unnecessary items at home — this is one of the easiest money-saving tricks for travel .

Don't accelerate too quickly

Quick acceleration burns extra gas. Rather, use a light touch when accelerating.

Plan efficient routes

Use your GPS to plan your route to minimize mileage and avoid traffic jams.

Take advantage of RV delivery

If road tripping in an RV rental is your jam (and hey, it's a smart money move if you want to roll transit and lodging costs into a single budget line item), at least consider RV delivery . Rather than drive from your home state to the starting point of the GATOR, it can sometimes be cheaper to fly or drive your smaller (thus more fuel-efficient) vehicle there, and then have your RV waiting at your first overnight spot.

Find the cheapest gas nearby — and stack rewards

Numerous apps offer local gas prices so you can compare and find the lowest price. Sign up for gas station loyalty programs for additional discounts.

Apps like Upside, TruNow and GasBuddy offer rewards and savings when buying gasoline. There are also loyalty programs specific to gas station companies, such as the Shell Fuel Rewards program, which is free to join.

Here’s how the Shell Fuel Rewards program works:

If you fill up your gas tank at a Shell station with at least 5 gallons six times within three months (essentially twice a month), you earn Gold Status, which earns you an automatic 5¢ off each gallon of gas, up to 20 gallons per purchase.

Even if you don’t shop frequently enough for that threshold, you still earn 3¢ off each gallon.

Unlike credit card points, this is a loyalty program, so you can still use one of our credit card recommendations to pay for the gas while simultaneously earning Shell discounts.

Plus, between now and Feb. 28, 2023, Shell is launching a bonus promotion to celebrate its 10th birthday where you can earn extra gas rewards for participating in online activities on the Shell website like spinning a virtual wheel. Purchases of certain convenience store items can also earn you bonus gas rewards, and the company is encouraging new folks to sign up by offering a 25 cents off per gallon discount after their first fill-up using their Fuel Rewards account (also limited to 20 gallons per fill-up).

These rewards are in addition to what you save from gas loyalty programs and earn from your credit card.

Use credit cards that earn rewards on gas

Certain credit cards offer bonus rewards on gas station purchases. Use these in tandem with the aforementioned gas loyalty rewards programs to double dip on your earnings.

Best credit cards for gas purchases

The best gas credit cards depend on what type of rewards you want to earn. Here's a sample of the rewards you can earn when buying gas on your road trip.

Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express . Earn 3% cash back on the first $6,000 you spend at U.S. gas stations each year. After that, get 1% cash back. Terms apply.

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card . Receive 3% cash back on the category of your choice, including gasoline.

Capital One Walmart Rewards Card . Get 2% cash back at Walmart fuel stations.

Citi Custom Cash® Card . You earn 5% on the category that you spend the most each billing cycle, including gas stations. Max of $500 spent per cycle, then 1% thereafter.

Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi . Earns 4% cash back on the first $7,000 you spend at gas stations and on EV charging.

The bottom line

Road trips can be a cost-effective way to travel and see America. You can avoid airport security and flight cancellations while traveling at your leisurely pace. But, with fuel prices much higher than last year, you need to find ways to reduce the cost of gas. Consider choosing a region with low gas prices, like the Gulf Coast, or follow the tips above to make driving more efficient and lower cost in areas closer to home.

Use a credit card that earns gasoline rewards to save money on gas at every fill-up.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2022 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee:   Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards:  Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card  

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-6.5% Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

$300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

• Mexico Travel News
• Seaweed Season

27 Budget Tips To Save Up On Your USA Road Trip

Traveling in the United States can be very expensive and you might end up changing your plan when you run out of your budget. Well, I can tell you it’s not gonna be cheap for sure but if you’re smart enough and you don’t mind putting yourself out of your comfort zone, you can do it for a very reasonable cost.

We’ve done our US road trip recently. Before/during the trip we wanted to find out the best saving tips and share all the ideas with other fellow travelers out there!

Table of contents

Cost of our 25-day long usa road trip, a. car rental – discount websites, b. usaa.com – discount (social security n. required), car insurance – if possible avoid the rental company, rental summary / other rental fees, turo – rent a car from people nearby, buying a car, travel in group/rideshare, gas – look for cheaper stations, parking – look for free parking, navigation – use your smartphone, toll roads – check the list, aaa membership, get some inexpensive car gear, build caravan by yourself, get some useful travel gadgets, go camping (cheapest option + it’s a lot of fun), stay in cheap motels, hotel tonight – last minute hotel deals, hostels – shared dorm rooms, airbnb.com – get an apartment or room, free hosting – couchsurfing, food – cook at your campsite, grocery discount cards, national parks fees – get annual pass, city tourism fees – get city pass, recommended books (plan your routes), keep track of your spendings with apps.

So you wonder, how much would it cost to travel across America? Here is our cost:

• CAR RENTAL – $950 (we did not reach the monthly discount)
• GAS – $750
• CAMPING – $350 
• FOOD – $550 (we cooked a lot)
• FEES (parking & entrances) – $200
• OTHER (camping gear, car gear, etc.) – $250
• TOTAL: $3050 (2 people)
• TOTAL per PERSON: $1525
• DAILY TOTAL: $60/person

* *NOTE: these prices apply to our costs in 2015, so the prices now can differ.

Renting a car in the United States

IMPORTANT NOTE:   Before we start, I have to point this out!!!  Make sure you bring your credit/debit card with a sufficient amount of funds! You might be able to pay cash for your rental but for security (deposit) reasons they always require valid credit/debit card!

Some of the rental companies don’t accept debit cards , so I strongly suggest checking it out before you make a reservation!

Getting a car trough rental company is usually very expensive, especially when you’re buying full insurance,  returning back in a  different location or under age of 25 . That’s why you should definitely look for some websites with discount offers.

NOTE: This is not a 100% option according to online ratings / but worth to risk!

You can easily find rental websites that compare the prices for you and when you book your car through them, you can get pretty cool discounts and save up to 200 – 500 USD . Usually, you’ll get booking only with basic insurance and the total cost can be much higher (but you can ensure the car with cheaper insurance companies).

For example   hotwire.com  or   rentalcars.com (booking.com partner)

HOT Tip –  Register on  USAA , a website for military members and their families where you can get discounts without ever being somehow involved, not even being US citizen.

Example: You can rent an intermediate car/month / approx. 600 USD

While registering you’ll need basic info, social security number  and for the question about military members be honest you answer “none”. This will allow you to avoid paying fees for additional driver, under 25 years and it gives you also a discount of the total rental price. After you’re done with registration go for “car rental discounts” and from there you can choose from 4 different rental companies (for example Hertz ). When you get there have this document https://images.hertz.com/pdfs/USAA_FAQ.pdf ready, in case they will try to charge some extra fees.

NOTE: Obtaining a social security number might be a problem for noncitizens! You need to have a work permit (work visa) in USA. Find more information here .

Rental companies charge very high prices for full insurance which you can avoid by ensuring your car by an external company, for example, insuremyrentalcar.com .

For example,  You pay only 30USD for a period of a maximum of 1 month!

Make sure you check out policies of your rental car provider! You might not be able to rent by an external company. 

So let’s see what fees you should keep in mind if you would like to estimate your price for rental:

• Car Rental Price – final price of the vehicle.
• Damage Waiver – Insurance of rented vehicle / this is obligatory!
• Liability Protection – Insurance of other vehicles and people injured in an accident caused by you. Make sure that bodily injury liability is also included.    Check out your travel insurance, it might be included (cheaper).
• Personal Accident Insurance – Insurance of you and people in the car. Should be part of your travel insurance.
• Side Road Assistance – You can choose to add this to your insurance. It covers all expenses of assistance, such as, flat tire, lookout, towing, fuel delivery, winching service, etc.
• Young Drive Fee (21-24) – If you have a chance, rent car on somebody who is at least 25 years old. Fee can vary from 10 – 25 USD per day.
• Additional Driver Fee – an additional driver can cost you 10 – 25 USD per day. Insurance doesn’t cover for the driver who’s not added on the contract.
• Airport Rental Fee – some companies charge if you rent straight from the airport. Try to avoid that!
• Different Location Return Fee – almost every company charges you returning fee. They are some exceptions between some locations, such as LA – Las Vegas.

GET 25USD discount on your first rental with our link

This popular concept of Airbnb is now available for cars as well! On websites like getaround.com and turo.com ,  you can rent car for your road trip from people (owners). It’s definitely more affordable and more attractive when it comes to the choice. Imagine, road trippin’ in Mini Cooper, BMW, or Tesla car? Yes! Option are pretty creative and unique.

Buying a car is can be a  very economical option when you’re good in the industry and you can recognize what’s a good deal or not. Buying a used car involves risks, such as repairs, scams but on the other side, you might make money out of it. If you buy cheaper than you sell, you’re the winner! One of the best websites for this purpose is craigslist.com .

Getting a car involves some necessary paperwork that can take quite some time! Read more details about this topic on tripadvisor .

This is pretty straight forward! Best way is to split most of the expenses when you travel in a group of (2-4). If you can’t find anybody, don’t worry there are websites where you can find other fellow solo travelers who you can share ride with. Check out couchsurfing.com , ridester.com or carpoolworld.com .

When road tripping in the US, you will do thousands of kilometers and you might end up spending 600 USD just on the gas! We did 8000 kms, for example. We noticed quite big differences between the prices in states. There might be a 1$ / per gallon just within the state and $2 differences between different states.

We recommend planning your trip according to  gas price map  which is very detailed and helpful. You can also get an app for your smartphone!

TIP: some of the gas stations give a better price for gas when you pay by CASH, it’s very individual and again, depends on the state! But I definitely saw it in California. Watch out for the signs on price stands in front.

Parking in national parks is usually included in the entrance fee or in some small cities is for FREE but in bigger cities, it can be more complicated and much more expensive.

Here are a few tips:

• Wallmart is in most cases free + WIFI. Note that not every single Wallmart parking lot allows you to park, so it might be illegal! Check out parking locator where you can find the exact information about this topic.
• Residential areas are for FREE (sometimes depending on hours)
• Overnight RV / camping parking (affordable)
• WATCH OUT FOR NO PARKING SIGN!

Don’t pay for GPS! Get free apps into your smartphone or buy a map for 6 bucks (like we did).

You can also get GPS in the shop with a good returning policy ! For example in Wallmart, where you can buy your navigation, use it for few weeks and then return it! See point 6. of this article for more information.

Have your “ paper map backup ” ready as well! Some of the remote places in USA won’t have any signal coverage and you might end up lost in the middle of nowhere!

Some of the toll roads can surprise in unexpected locations and prices might also very high. Make sure you always carry some cash in your car to avoid any fines! Check out this full list of toll roads in the USA .

AAA is another interesting website that can be very useful in North America! It’s American Automobile Association which has over 50 million members. It’s a non-profit organization offering road services to their members in all over the United States and Canada.

If you visit their office they can provide you with FREE maps, guidebooks or routing maps. You can also take advantage of great discounts for accommodation, food and road assistance.

If you’re from the US or you’re planning to stay longer, there are options for building your own caravan from the van! You can get cheap/good/spacious vans in the USA quite easily.

Vandogtraveller sells an amazing ebook (276 pages) on his website for only 10 bucks which guides you through the whole process of conversion. His story is really cool, check out his website vandogtraveller.com .

You would be surprised how helpful could be simple travel gadgets for backpacking when it comes to road-tripping.

Here is the full list of our best travel gadgets but let me point out some of my favorite which you will definitely appreciate on your road trip:

• Compressing packing cubes – helps you organize your clothes
• Supporting travel pillows – get comfort on a long-drive day
• Portable travel hammocks – easy to attach in parks and takes almost no space

Campsites in the United States are usually in great condition and come with BBQ grill, fire pits, showers, restrooms, wifi access, etc. Price is depending on location, season and facilities.

FREE camping sites you can find on  freecampsites.net  or you can camp basically anywhere in “National Forest”. BLM sites are also sometimes for FREE.

Paid camping sites  have usually more facilities and they are much more affordable than motels. (Costs is between 10 USD – 40 USD). Most of the campsites are in google maps and you can find reviews or the official website.

Camp in my garden  is another cool site where you can find camp spots in people’s backyard for only a couple of bucks. Check out here . These options can be actually pretty fancy and friendly experience since some of the people have really nice gardens.

Motels are almost on every corner in the US. They are not a very economical option but it’s definitely not expensive when you travel in a group of 4 people.

One of the most popular motel budget networks is “Motel 6”   or “ Super 8 ” hotels network. which offers rooms for 4 people between (40 – 70 USD). These rooms usually have desk, small TV, small fridge, AC, closet etc. nothing too special but more than for enough for travelers/backpackers.

Tip: If you travel in a group of 2.. you can go and say that room is for one person only, then you end up paying less, and of course more people can stay.

Tip: if there is options to collect hotel points, definitely go for it. It can save you money as well, just apply for a hotel credit card. You can get straight away 70,000 points when you sign-up and those can cover a couple of nights for you.

USE CODE “VVINCEJ” to get your 25USD discount (minimum spent 150USD)

The way it works is by offering vacant rooms of different hotels that didn’t manage to get their rooms fully booked in time so they offer them on the app for a steep discount just to fill them up. Because of the nature of the app, you can’t book the rooms too far in advance (The maximum is 1 week) so you cannot really rely on it but if you are flexible with your accommodation options then this might be the perfect option for you.

For example check OUR ARTICLEs about: Best Hostels in New York City Best Hostels in San Francisco Best hostels in Miami Beach

In bigger cities, you can find hostels and take advantage of shared (dorm) rooms which can some costs $15 / night. 

In case you’re a picky person and you wanna make sure your place meets your requirements/need, make sure you visit tripadvisor.com to read reviews! You can find every single hotel/hostel there with a lot of customer reviews.

USE THIS LINK TO GET $20 OFF ON YOUR FIRST STAY!

Airbnb is an amazing website where you easily find cheaper accommodation in somebody’s house, flat or kind of private hotels or hostels. There are plenty of options and you can find accommodation as low as $20-40 per night for single room or bed in a dorm room.

It’s becoming a very popular option these days, not just in USA. They have an amazing interactive search/filtering system which helps a lot to find exactly what you’re looking for. 

Yes, you can also sleep for FREE! One of the most popular websites offering hosting is couchsurfing.com where you can create your profile and send requests to random people all around the world. It’s all based on references from other so-called couch surfers!

You know what they say, travel often & eat well! The food you can find on every corner and basically everything that you wish! But sometimes it might kick-off your budget if you don’t eat smart.

Get good food from restaurants and do not try to save up on food but we recommend some of the tips:

• FAST foods are everywhere (not the most economical option)
• get some snacks and breakfast stuff from cheap stores like dollar tree .
• do your shopping in Wallmart (cheaper prices)
• get the member cards
• cook at your camping site! here are some camping recipes !
• get your cooking tools (for one-time use) from dollar tree or Wallmart.
• be creative! 😉

When you camp during your whole trip and you eat in camp you can squeeze your budget to ( $10 / day ).

Most of the big supermarket chains have free loyalty cards that give you massive discounts every time you purchase at their store. The reason they do this is that by you having a loyalty card they can collect data on your purchases which helps them run their business more efficiently. In exchange for giving them some data on consumer behavior, you are rewarded with pretty neat discounts.

When you are traveling on a budget this is the perfect opportunity to save loads of money on your basic necessities. As you know most of your basic expenses fall into 3 categories: logistics, accommodation, and food. And if you minimize the expenses in the food column then you are on a good path to make your trip budget-friendly. You should definitely make use of this hack!

If you’re planning to visit more than 4 national parks you should definitely get annual pass which cost only $80 per vehicle and it allows you to visit 90% of the parks in US.

City Pass  cards can be really handy while road tripping in USA, especially if you’re planning a lot of sightseeing. They usually contain various city attractions and public transport and helps you to save up to $100 sometimes.

You can also get plenty of information at your hotel’s reception desk and they sometimes give away various discounts (especially in Las Vegas).

Check the video from our USA road trip or our travel quotes for some inspiration!

I hope you’ve found great tips in this article and you learned how to save money on the USA road trip! Make sure you double-check tips you find here (before you make booking or payment) just because you never know when it can change.

We simply can’t say everything will work 100%. We’re continuously trying to update this article to keep it fresh and information up to date but we don’t receive any updates from companies, orgs or websites mentioned above!

Feel FREE to contact us if you have any questions or advice on what to add to the article. Simply post a comment at the end of the article.

We would be super happy if you share these amazing USA road trip tips with your friends on social media. Thank you 🙂

Disclaimer: This article about USA road trip tips contains various affiliate links. When a purchase is made via those links we might earn a commission from the sale. This little income helps us to run our website Traveling Lifestyle and keep publishing more content such as this article.

Great article! So around how much did you end up spending those 20 days?

Hi, thanks for the question. I think it was around 1500USD per person, we were 2.

Awesome tips . Thanks.

thank you Cheryl.. 😉

What is that place in your video with white sand? I would like to see that! Amazing 😊

it’s great salt lake desert in Utah, really cool thing to see! 🙂

Hi Guys, great article- I have few questiongs and wondered if you had any insight? – For the USAA you said one would need social insurance nr- is there a way to go around this? (since neither of us is a US citizen) – Do you think October is still ok for road tripping and camping in the northern states (minesotta, montana washington etc) – Do you think that a small campervan might be better than tent? (having to build it up every night etc)- And if we had a small campervan, do you think we could just part at the wallmart parking and stay there? Isnt this illegal in the US?

1. You don’t have to US citizen to get SSN but you need working permit (work visa) to get it, it’s probably not possible to go around. Maybe through some other person who can register and get it for you! 2. For example: Montana (Yellowstone) was quite cold already in September during the night… depends also on quality of sleeping bags etc… but I think it’s still doable! 3. There is locator for Wallmart parking, there are plenty of places where you can do it! Check our locators http://www.walmartlocator.com/rv-parking-at-walmart/

Enjoy your trip!

i read so many articles abt road trips in USA but this one is the most usuful to me! Really good job guys 🙂 Im doing my trip this year so when i will be back with new tips im gonna share them here too

oh and i found your page during looking up for some cool videos on youtube.

thank you Pati! Enjoy your trip… it would be amazing if you could pass some more tips for US road trip!

Way cool! Some extremely valid points! I appreciate you writing this article and also the rest of the site is extremely good.

It is good to hear Dennis… more articles are coming… Thanks

These are truly great saving tips! I almost book the car for crazy money, but then I found you tips for renting and saved 500 bucks straight away. We’re planning our trip very soon, hopefully it’s not gonna be too cold for camping these days.

Thanks for sharing… this is definitely ALL in article with the most useful budget tips..

thanks Walt! Enjoy your road trip in USA 😉

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Our three month, cross USA road trip route

Our USA road trip ended a month ago (a month already!) and it was incredible. We saw so much and we’ve pretty much been enjoying summer since mid-March. Which, if you ask me, is well deserved having converted our van in the freezing cold of a Home Depot car park in Toronto.

Below is the road trip route we took around the US (including the West Coast USA road trip section).

During the route, we covered over 20,000 km, 22 States, 11 National Parks, 1 lost passport mishap, a punctured tire, an expensive visit to the garage, one gun spotted in a restaurant, and 2 bear sightings.

AllTrails is my go-to hiking app for finding, planning, and navigating while I’m out on the trails. With offline maps on AllTrails+ you can be confident you’re still on the right track, even without mobile signal.

We covered a lot but it also looks like we really didn’t do all that much?!

I’ve still got SO much to write about our trip (even over a year after we finished). I also kept a diary full of my observations from on the road which I may share a bit of it here (if you’re lucky!).

If you’ve got any questions about our route, want advice on how to plan your own, or just want to say hi then please do 🙂

If you’re wondering how to pack for a USA road trip, I’ve shared some great trips in my road trip packing checklist.

Get a USA National Parks Pass for just $80 and save a tonne of money if you’re planning on visiting multiple National Parks in a year, or visiting the same one more than once!

US National Parks we visited

In the end, our road trip became more of a 3 month national park road trip. Sure, we visited some cities, but we preferred to be out in nature, exploring the beautiful national parks.

Arches National Park, UT

• How to visit Arches and Canyonlands National Parks in one day
• Ultimate guide to Arches National Park (permits, must-sees & more!)
• A complete packing list for Arches National Park
• Things to do in Arches National Park in one day
• The arches you need to see in Arches National Park
• The best half day hikes in Arches National Park
• The ultimate adventurer’s Guide to Moab, Utah

Canyonlands National Park, UT

• The complete guide to Canyonlands National Park, Utah
• What to pack for Canyonlands National Park
• Best things to do in Canyonlands National Park
• The best hikes to do in Canyonlands National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park, UT

• A guide to Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
• The best things to do in Bryce Canyon National Park
• What to pack for Bryce Canyon National Park
• The best hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park

Zion National Park, UT

• 16 of the best things to do in Zion National Park (Including a SECRET hike!)
• Hiking the Angel’s Landing in Zion National Park

Grand Canyon National Park, AZ

• A guide to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim
• Grand Canyon South Rim best hikes
• 10 best things to do in the Grand Canyon National Park
• Hiking into the Grand Canyon on the South Kaibab Trail

The Everglades National Park, FL

• How to do a self guided Everglades tour

Redwoods national park, CA

• A guide to visiting Redwood National Park
• 9 Best hikes in Redwood National Park

Yosemite national park, CA

• The best things to do in Yosemite National Park
• How to hike Yosemite Falls

Death Valley, CA

• A guide to visiting Death Valley National Park, California
• The best day hikes and backpacking in Death Valley National Park, California!
• 9 things to see and do in Death Valley National Park

Mount Rainier, WA

• Guide to visiting Mt Rainier National Park, WA
• The best Mt Rainier day hikes & backpacking trails

Cascades National Park, WA

• Complete guide to visiting North Cascades National Park
• Some of the best North Cascades National Park hikes!

See all posts by state

If you use the map above, you can click on each state and see the blog posts and guides I have that relate to that state during our 3-month road trip USA itinerary.

This will show you posts such as the best things to do in Seattle , what to do with 48 hours in New York, and exploring Savannah Georgia amongst other cities and towns we visited during our 3 months in USA.

3 month road trip USA budget

This road trip was done in 2017 from March to June and we budgeted $50 US a day per person. This was to include all our fuel, any accommodation costs (though actually we only paid for accommodation twice in the whole three months), food, activities — everything.

We stuck to it pretty well and if anything were slightly under by the end.

Since we’d converted a van into a campervan and used that as our accommodation, we didn’t need to book any hotels or campsites while traveling.

The West Coast was definitely easier when it comes to finding free places to sleep since there are more national parks and national forests, and BLM land. On the east coast, it was mostly Walmart and Home Depot parking lots.

Final thoughts on this 3 month road trip USA route

Our 3 month road trip around America was one of the best trips I’ve ever done. We didn’t really have any American road trip routes in mind. It was very much a case of down one coast, along the bottom, and up the other side.

3 months isn’t really enough time to do everything we did. You have to be prepared to move quite fast and there are definitely places we missed that I’d love to go back and see. I actually include some of them in my USA bucket list post.

They include seeing more of Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming, perhaps visiting places like Iowa and Cleveland in Ohio or more of California since we missed places like Joshua Tree and Los Angeles.

But, this USA trip was still a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I feel very lucky to have had. Maybe one day we’ll get to plan another 3 month road trip USA itinerary, who knows?!

If you love road trips be sure to check out this guide to the best places to visit on an East Coast road trip USA as well as trip this awesome New England fall foliage road trip itinerary .

Last Updated on July 31, 2023 by Hannah

Hannah started That Adventurer after graduating back in 2013 and has documented all of her adventures since then. From backpacking South America to city breaks in Europe , a 3 month road trip across the USA in a self-converted van and 6 years living in Canada , you’ll find posts on all of this.

Hannah specialises in active travel and on That Adventurer you’ll find hiking, walking, biking, skiing and all sorts of active travel guides to allow you to see a destination in an adventurous way.

Now back in Europe, you’ll find new guides as Hannah and her husband spend the next year ‘digital nomading’ from Norway to Portugal, Switzerland to Scotland and places in between.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

[…] 1.5 hour’s drive north to discover White Sands National Monument in New Mexico. During our three month USA road trip we were told to make sure we visited this National Monument by a man in a Home Depot parking lot […]

I’ve just come across your blog through a blogger group and your’s just stopped me in my tracks. What amazing photos and what a wonderful adventure! Thanks for posting about it.

Thank you! So glad to hear you’ve enjoyed what you’ve seen

Wow, I can’t believe you drove over 20.000 km! I recently did a 2.5 month road trip myself and covered 10.000 km which I thought was a lot! It must’ve been an amazing trip 🙂

It was incredible! Would love to do another one seeing the states we didn’t see that time!

You went to some of the best places in the States! Next year it’s time to hit up the interior US! =)

How to Plan a Budget USA Road Trip: The Complete Guide

There’s nothing quite like traveling the open road. This is especially true in the United States, where national parks (state parks, too) are plentiful and magnificent. The best part about the US is how easy and budget-friendly it is to road trip.

Of course, planning a road trip depends heavily on your route. Regardless of whether you’re hitting the big cities along the way or seeking out the peace and quiet of nature, we believe driving is the best way to experience the splendor of the United States. In this post, we share our tips on how to plan a US road trip on a budget without missing out on the fun!

But there’s more to a road trip than just planning and budgeting. Check out some road trip essentials to bring with you on your adventure!

How to Save Money on Transportation

Transportation adds up to be a pretty big chunk of any road trip budget. You can thank gas for that one, but the US is actually one of the cheapest countries when talking about gas. Although gas prices aren’t too high right now, o ne of the easiest ways to save money on your US road trip is to have a fuel-efficient car .

If you own one, great! If not, it’s a good idea to research the cost of renting one. We think 35-40 mpg (miles per gallon) is a good minimum to aim for when road-tripping on a budget.

Granted, if you don’t already own a fuel-efficient car, you’ll have to do a little math here. The cost of the rental plus an estimate of gas costs vs. no rental cost and gas.

Helpful Apps for Gas

Gas is one of the key elements of a road trip. Without it, you’re going nowhere. Luckily there are apps out there that help you find the cheapest gas prices near you so you’re always getting the best bang for your buck.

GasBuddy is a handy-dandy app for finding gas prices near you. You can use the app to search for the specific gas your car needs as well as the prices. If you really want to plan ahead, you can search along your route to see all available stations and prices.

Waze is a navigation app that gives you the option to search for gas stations along your route and it’ll show you the most recently recorded prices.

Both of these apps use crowdsourcing for their information so prices shown on the apps are uploaded by fellow users;  they could be outdated or inaccurate. Both apps tell you when the price for that station was last updated.

Renting a Car

If renting a car is the route you choose then there are some things to keep in mind. Roundtrip rentals tend to be much cheaper than having a different drop-off destination than your pick-up.

For example, the above screenshot shows a 13 day rental with Houston being the pick-up and drop-off point. The screenshot below shows only 6 days with a pick-up in Houston and a drop-off in Los Angeles. But it’s at least $250 more expensive! Plus you have to pay for transport home.

If you plan on dropping off the rental car in a different location than where you picked it up, verify that your reservation price includes the one-way fee. Depending on where you’re going, the fee can differ greatly and cause some financial headache.

Make sure your reservation includes unlimited mileage. There’s nothing worse than planning a 2000 mile trip only to find out you’re rental has a 300 mile limit and you have to pay for each additional mile over.

What about rideshares?

While an Uber or Lyft would get pricey for passengers at long distances, what about advertising your journey to people you meet in a hostel or hotel? This is definitely a great option for those who love to meet fellow travelers! Offering others a ride and splitting gas/general costs would help cut down on transportation!

Budget Accommodation

From free (yes, free!) to really cheap, let’s talk about where to lay your head at night when going on a budget road trip.

A fun, free option is to Couchsurf . This service allows you to contact hosts (all over the world) and stay with them for free. In exchange for free housing, they may want to get to know you and hang out a little bit. It’s widely used in the US so if meeting locals and free housing sounds fun to you then be sure and give it a try! It’s a good way to step outside of that introvert box!

For those on a very tight budget: if comfort isn’t important then sleeping in your car is a great budget option. We think a good night’s rest in a bed would be best but there’s nothing wrong with catching some zzz’s in the car.

Make sure you’re parked in an area where you’re allowed to be overnight (24 hour rest stops, for example), crack the windows so you have airflow and make sure you take the keys out of the ignition. In some areas, you can get a ticket for leaving keys in the ignition.

If the free options aren’t your thing then you can find cheap options for your accommodation elsewhere.

Our go-to accommodation is Airbnb, especially in cities. We’ve found that most Airbnb’s are significantly cheaper and more flexible (in some ways) than hotels. Since you’ll have a car (it’s a road trip, duh) be sure to filter the Airbnb results by choosing free parking (and a kitchen!).

Be mindful of what your Airbnb check-in process is like. If you plan on a late arrival then you need to communicate with your host beforehand. If you’re new to Airbnb or a little leery then read up on the pros and cons of using Airbnb while traveling .

Campsites are very cheap places to sleep if you have the right supplies and the weather is nice. Don’t just think about camping at national parks. The US is full of RV parks and campsites (check KOA ).

If this sounds fun but you don’t have camping gear, it’s easy to get the basic supplies you need for cheap. A decent 2 person tent can be as low as $20 and if you don’t already have sleeping bags, then blankets from home (always bring extra) will suffice. For added comfort, bring a thick yoga mat or blow up mattress to lie on.

If none of the above have solved your budget trip woes there’s always Motel 6 or Super 8! These are budget-friendly hotels and you’ll find them everywhere while road tripping across the US. Motel 6 and Super 8 are well-known hotel chains in the States, but always be on the lookout for the unknown cheap accommodation.

For example, on a road trip through New Mexico and Colorado, we found a last-minute hotel on Booking.com in Raton, New Mexico. While we didn’t do much other than sleep in Raton, the accommodation was perfect for our budget and a great place to begin driving the next day.

National Parks

One of the biggest perks of a road trip in the US?

National parks!

We are spoiled in the US, especially the western half, with a lot of natural beauty. There are more than 60 national parks in the United States! From hiking, camping, outdoor sports, stargazing, you can find a ton of things to keep you entertained in nature.

If your road trip is just a few days or a few weeks, we hope you can stop by at least one national park. In addition to being very budget-friendly, you’ll find it’s one of the most memorable stops on your trip!

For those road-tripping the southwest, you might want to look into Big Bend National Park . We feel it doesn’t get as much talk as it should, which is probably why we found it to be so peaceful compared to other parks. It’s an accredited dark sky park (great for stargazing) and offers nature lovers some hot desert, cooler mountains, and the Rio Grande.

Don’t forget about state parks too. There are many of these as well and some are just as beautiful (and less crowded) than national parks!

Limit Time in Major Cities and Use Attraction Passes

Major cities mean more money.

But let’s be real. A road trip across the Midwest isn’t complete without a stop in Chicago .

Even though bigger cities come with a bigger price tag (food, housing, things to do), some of America’s best attractions can be found there. Whether it’s Chicago or New York , a good place to start your budget and itinerary is with Go City cards . These will save you a lot of money on popular attractions and they’ll give you a good idea of how long you need to spend in town.

As we mentioned earlier when talking about accommodation, you’ll find some great deals on Airbnb when staying in large cities; the ones that come with parking are the best option!

However, in places like New York City where Airbnb is a grey area of legal/illegal (when staying under 30 days) you may want to look at other means of accommodation through booking.com or Couchsurfing. Then again, you may want to stay outside of New York City (and train in) to avoid the traffic!

How to Save on Food

Eating is one of the highlights of a road trip in the USA. From mom and pop diners on Historic Route 66 to fast food, there are so many temptations while on the road. While indulging occasionally is mandatory, eating out too often can ruin your budget.

That’s where road trip snacks come in!

Our biggest word of advice? Stock up a cooler with snacks, sandwiches and drinks before setting off. Filling up at your local grocery store will be cheaper than grabbing snacks at gas stations on the road.

If you don’t have a cooler, odds are you know someone who does (borrow it!) or you can purchase a cheap styrofoam cooler (but this is not the environmentally-friendly option).

Cook as many meals as possible. This can be difficult at times, especially if you’re staying in a hotel or don’t have access to a kitchen. But you can buy sandwich fixings, cereal and other dry goods that will serve as a good meal replacement.

If you’re craving a hot meal, then a cheap camping stove might be in order; or you can reserve campsites with grills (which you should totally do). You can find single-burner camping stoves for under $30 and double burner camping stoves for under $50.

Again, we really like Airbnbs because cooking is much easier. When searching for accommodations on Airbnb be sure to check the filter option for kitchens so you can book a place with a kitchen and basic cooking supplies. Even some shared apartments (cheap cheap!) allow guests to use the kitchen so that’s an awesome budget idea.

Summary of How to Plan a US Road Trip on a Budget

There are lots of ways to save while traveling the US on the open road. It’s a mix and match of what suits your wants and needs and how it all adds up into the road trip budget. We wish you an awesome time on the road!

Happy travels!

Like It? Share iT!

Where Food Takes Us

We’re Darah and Garrett. Our life has been an adventure ever since we eloped in a pink Cadillac in Las Vegas. Now we’re running around the world, working online, and eating everything we can.

Read more about us!

Related Posts

6 of the Best Ways to Get Around France

11 Simple but Crucial Travel Safety Tips

We were on the Nomadic Foodist podcast!

9 Tips for Losing Weight While Traveling

12 Healthy Travel Snacks: Yummy Bites for Travel

Exploring London in 24 Hours or Less: Is One Day Enough?

Traveling Around Europe With FlixBus: Our Review

12 Essential Do’s and Don’ts for Housesitting

Where Should You Travel Next? 10 Tips to Start Your Search

Things to do in NYC: 2 Day Itinerary in the Big Apple

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

United States Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 14, 2024

The United States isn’t a popular destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Most overseas tourists come here for a short vacation, visit one or two cities, and then head home. They usually stick to the big coastal cities or places like Disney.

And it wasn’t until COVID that Americans en-masse bothered to hop in their cars and explore their backyard.

The U.S. is massive country that lacks a lot of tourist infrastructure or good cross-country transportation. Hostels haven’t quite caught on, trains don’t go to many places, and we don’t offer working holiday visas to attract young working backpackers. In short, it’s hard to get around.

However, the United States has a lot to offer: stunning national parks, gorgeous landscapes, incredible and diverse culture, world-class music, and a variety of delicious cuisine that varies from region to region.

I think the U.S. is one of the best destinations in the world to road trip . I’ve done several multi-month road trips across the United States . While the coastal cities are fun, the U.S. really reveals itself in the middle and countryside (it’s much more affordable there too). It’s in the nooks and crannies of America that you get a sense of its quirks.

But even if you aren’t spending months visiting the country in a car, there’s still a lot you can do via train, bus, or plane.

This travel guide to the United States can help you navigate the country, save money, and get off the beaten path.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on the United States

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in the united states.

1. Explore New York City

The city that never sleeps is one of the greatest cities in the world. There’s nothing you can’t do or see and you’ll find every language and food from around the world here. From world-class museums and art galleries to innovative theater performances to unique restaurants to the expansive Central Park, you can fill a lifetime of activities here. You can take the ferry to Ellis Island, see the Statue of Liberty, hang with the hipsters in Brooklyn, see a Yankees game, and so, so much more. Check out my detailed guide for everything you need to do .

2. Visit the Grand Canyon

Words can’t describe how epicly beautiful the Grand Canyon is. It’s simply breathtaking. Most people just look out at the canyon from the overlook at the top, but its vast size and beauty are best appreciated with a hike down to the Colorado River so try to do that if you have time (make the time). The canyon itself is 6,000 feet deep, and you can find plenty of hikes to take you further into the canyon that will give you a chance to experience it in more detail. For a shorter hike, Grandview Trail to the first overlook at Coconino Saddle and back is only a couple of miles. If you have a whole day to spend and want to challenge yourself, try the 12.5 miles from Bright Angel Trail to Plateau Point. Just be sure to bring plenty of water!

3. Discover Austin

The warm weather, lively honky-tonks, funky house bars on Rainey Street, amazing walking and biking trails, tons of outdoor activities — Austin is great (I lived there for many years). You can always find great live music on 6th Street. On a hot day, Barton Springs pool is the perfect place to cool off, there’s always something to do, the food scene gets better and better, and everyone is very welcoming. It’s one of the best cities in the U.S., boasting a combination of nature, city, and delicious food. Be sure to binge on BBQ while you’re here!

4. Visit Glacier National Park

This is my favorite national park in the country. It’s home to gorgeous snow-topped mountains, a beautiful lake from which to admire said mountains, large glaciers, and hiking trails galore. It is one of the most mind-blowing places I’ve seen on my adventures. There are more than 700 miles of hiking trails in the park that provide everyone an opportunity to explore the landscape. Park rangers offer various programs and guided tours are also available. There are spots for fishing and additional trails for biking and horseback riding. (If you plan to visit multiple national parks while traveling throughout the United States, it’s worth it to get the America the Beautiful Park Pass, which costs just $80 USD and provides entry to all the national parks for a year.)

5. Drive the Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast is considered one of the most scenic landscapes in the world, offering sheer cliffs, forests descending to the shoreline, miles of beaches, and giant redwoods. The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) runs 1,650 miles from San Diego, California to Seattle, Washington taking you from the warm, sunny beaches to the lush temperate rainforests of the Pacific Northwest. Highway 1 thorough California is one of the longest historic state highways in the country. The California portion alone route takes 10 hours without stopping but I recommend dedicating at least several days to enjoy all the great stops along the way.

Other Things to See and Do in the United States

NOTE: There’s a lot to do in the United States and you can spend months traveling around the country . I could write an entire book on the places to visit! This is just a list to give you some ideas. Be sure to check out some of my other articles and city specific guides (scroll to the bottom of this guide for links) for more suggestions.

1. Have fun in Memphis

Gritty and industrial, Memphis appears like its best days are behind it. But don’t let the rough exterior fool you — the city is home to some killer food and a vibrant blues music scene. It is a cool city with boisterous and friendly locals. I love the vibe here. There’s Graceland (Elvis’s home) for fans of the King, a big waterfront for walking, and the phenomenal Museum of Civil Rights (it’s huge, so don’t rush it!). The city is going through a big revival right now. To use a cliché, it’s a hidden gem as most people, to their detriment, skip over it.

2. Discover Asheville

Asheville is full of tasty craft beer, great restaurants, and plenty of outdoor loving residents. The beautiful Smoky Mountains are a short drive away, Asheville Botanical Gardens are right near the university, and the gigantic Biltmore estate (the largest privately-owned home in the U.S. and once home to George Vanderbilt) is on the outskirts of the city. (If you’ve ever seen Downton Abbey, that’s what the house is like!) The town has a lot of parks and there are a lot of beautiful biking and hiking trails that you can get to from the center of town.

3. Explore Redwood National Park

Along the Pacific Coast is Redwood National Park, a huge expanse of towering redwood trees filled with picnic areas, places to camp, and miles upon miles of hiking trails. Trails range from easy to strenuous, and there are many loops that head out to nearby beaches. The trees range from 200-240 feet tall. It’s utterly beautiful, awe-inspiring, and humbling in every way. Admission is free, though the three adjoining state parks (Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, and Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park) each charge $10 USD.

4. Explore Denver

Known as the Mile High City (the city is one mile above sea level), Denver offers a mix of outdoor ruggedness and big-city living. It has a huge craft beer scene, excellent restaurants (including, Sushi Sasa, one of my favorite sushi restaurants), a large international airport with lots of connections, and is close to the mountains. There are a lot of interesting museums, including the Denver Art Museum, Meow Wolf Denver, and the Clifford Still Museum. There’s plenty of art outside of the museums as well and there are walking tours available to show you around, if you prefer that to exploring on your own. It’s clean, lively, and the locals are incredibly friendly.

5. Get off-the-beaten-path in Natchez

I was surprised by Natchez . I didn’t know anything about it when it was recommended as a place to see historic 19th-century homes. These mansions were built by white plantation owners wanting to escape the summer heat and socialize with each other. As cotton became king, the houses became ever larger and more elaborate. Today, the homes are historic monuments you can tour while enjoying a view of the Mississippi River. It’s far off the beaten path and you’ll need a car to visit but it’s worth the trek.

6. Visit Savannah

Sitting on Georgia’s coast, Savannah escaped the wrath of the Civil War, allegedly because General Sherman thought it was too pretty to be destroyed. With streets lined with Spanish moss-covered oaks, large and inviting parks, and a bustling waterfront, Savannah is a wonderful place to experience the slow pace of the South. There are a number of interesting historical sites like the Bonaventure Cemetery and Factors Row. The city is full of small squares and sprawling parks where you can enjoy a stroll or a picnic. And nearby Tybee Island is a draw for many visitors due to its sandy beaches and slow pace of life.

7. Dive into Nashville’s music scene

Nashville is one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S. It’s got a wonderful music scene (duh), a growing cocktail bar culture, and some world-class down-home Southern restaurants. There’s not a lot of “touristy stuff” to do here, but what makes this city one of my favorites are the music, the food, the wildly friendly people, and the positive energy the city seems to exude. When you’re here, plan to spend a few hours at the Tennessee State Museum. It goes into detail about the state’s history (and it’s more exciting than you might think!).

8. Catch some rays in sunny San Diego

I love San Diego. San Diego’s weather is almost always perfect, leading to a permanently happy population that’s friendly and outgoing and that loves the outdoors. From hiking, days at the beach, or running, people here love to get out and enjoy the sun. The downtown Gaslamp area — as well as the famous Pacific Beach — is full of trendy restaurants, bustling bars, and some seriously life-changing taco stalls.

9. Get tipsy in California’s Wine Country

California is home to some of the best wine in the world, and a visit to the Sonoma or Napa Valley shouldn’t be missed. While Sonoma is cheaper than Napa, both these destinations are meant for splashing out. Take a tour, book a cozy vineyard Airbnb, and enjoy a relaxing few days learning about the region’s wines. Tastings usually cost between $15-20 USD. If you go to Sonoma, check out Three Fat Guys winery. They have phenomenal reds.

10. Hike around Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is impressive and beautiful. Ringed by tiny mountain communities, this is a terrific place for hiking and boating in the summer and skiing in the winter. For fun in the sun, be sure to spend some time lounging at Kings Beach. For hikes, check out the Rubicon Trail (16 miles/25.7 kilometers) or the Cascade Falls Trail (1.4 miles/2.2 kilometers). You can’t really go wrong here.

11. Anywhere in Montana

A lot has been written about how stunning Montana is, but words cannot do this state justice. To me, it’s the most beautiful state in the Union, filled with wondrous mountains and hills as far as the eye can see. It’s a nature-lover’s paradise and there is a huge craft beer scene here too, with tons of local breweries all around the state. If you want nature, good food, friendly locals, and just quiet, Montana is it!

12. Relax in Cape Cod

I spent a lot of summers on the Cape since I grew up in Boston. You’ll find plenty of small beach towns along the coast (Provincetown and Hyannis being the most famous but I also love Chatham, Falmouth, Wellfleet, and Brewster). There’s not a lot to “do” but if you’re looking for seafood, beaches, boardwalks, and that perfect family vacation, visit the Cape! Just avoid the weekends when it gets a little too crowded.

13. Explore Deadwood

Tucked away in western South Dakota, this town was famous during the Old West days (noteworthy enough to be the focus of the eponymous HBO series). Wyatt Earp, Calamity Jane, Wild Bill Hickok, and many other infamous gunslingers all spent time here. Sort of kitschy and re-created, it’s nonetheless a very cool place where you can experience a taste of the old frontier days. It’s also conveniently located near the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore so you can use it as a base for exploring the region.

14. Be surprised by Kansas City

I really loved this city, which features some of the world’s best BBQ and a lively downtown core. There’s a detailed and enlightening jazz museum here, as well as the eye-opening Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (that’s the actual name). This is yet another super underrated and under-visited destination.

15. Stay weird in Portland

Portland , Oregon is incredible. Here you’ll find an impressive food truck scene, cool bespoke bars and cocktail lounges, a craft beer scene that’s religion to residents, relaxing parks (including a peaceful Japanese garden), a vibrant art scene, and hiking in the nearby mountains. Portland is just an awesome city, especially in the summer when the weather is perfect and there are festivals and events galore.

16. Hike our national parks

America has 63 national parks as well as countless state and local parks. These parks highlight the best of the American wilderness. Yellowstone, Yosemite, Glacier, Zion, Byrce, the Smokey Mountains, Rocky Mountain Park, the Badlands — the list goes on. Make sure you visit as many national parks as you can to get a sense of the grand and diverse landscape that is the United States. You can use this government map to find a park near you! If you plan to visit multiple parks, get the America the Beautiful Park Pass, which costs just $80 USD and gets you free entry to all the national parks for a year.

17. Admire the architecture in Chicago

One of my favorite cities in the world, Chicago is full of amazing architecture, great parks, delicious and hearty food, and a fun nightlife. One of the best ways to see the city’s unique architecture is on a river cruise. There are multiple operators and prices start around $45. Don’t miss trying deep-dish pizza (it was invented here, along with stuffed-crust pizza) and seeing the iconic “Bean” sculpture in Millennium Park. Additionally, check out the city’s famous pier, aquarium, and waterfront park. The city also hosts one of the biggest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the country.

18. Enjoy Lively New Orleans

This French-influenced city has incredible seafood and Cajun cuisine and even better live music. A visit to New Orleans is a must for any jazz or blues fan. Live music is available seven nights a week. Frenchman Street is one of the best places to go (my favorite venue is the Spotted Cat). There are also tons of amazing walking tours that highlight the city’s unique culture and history (including ghost and voodoo tours). Nature lovers will enjoy wandering through the massive oak trees in City Park where you can also visit the city’s Botanical Gardens, which are open year-round. Admission is $12. Plus, there’s incredible independent bookstores, creole food, art museums, and the simply incredible and informative World War 2 museum. Don’t skip roaming the redone and revitalized Bywater district too. It’s a bit hipster. If you plan on celebrating Mardi Gras in NOLA , book early. Accommodations fill up fast.

19. Get some sun in Hawaii

Closer to Asia than the United States, Hawaii is America’s slice of South Pacific paradise. White sands beaches, clear blue water, tropical jungle, and great surf — Hawaii has it all! Don’t miss the otherworldly landscapes of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, the somber memorial at Pearl Harbor, and the hikes at Diamond Head and the Lanikai Pillbox Trail near Honolulu. There are a ton of opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving where you get a chance to see manta rays, sea turtles, and plenty of colorful fish. Waimea Canyon and the Napali coast on the island of Kauai are places you can get up close and personal with the natural landscape. There are helicopter and boat tours or, if you’re up for a challenge, you can hike the iconic Kalalau Trail. Every island has its own vibe so, if you can, visit more than one.

20. Check out Boston

The birthplace of the revolution (and my hometown), no one leaves Boston disappointed. It’s a big city, but its lack of high-rises, as well as its cobblestone streets and brick buildings, give the city a small-town feel. The Freedom Trail, which covers all the main historic stops, is a must because it gives you a look at the city’s historic past. Be sure to lounge in the Boston Common and catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park too (the city is big on sports).

21. Visit the nation’s capital

The country’s capital is home to many of the best museums in the country. And, given the large number of international embassy workers here, it’s unsurprising one of the most international cities in the country. You can find food from anywhere in the world thanks to all the embassies in the city. Plus, there’s a vibrant music and cocktail scene. Don’t miss the National Mall and all its monuments, the Holocaust Museum, and the various Smithsonian Museums (some of the best are the Air and Space Museum, the Museum of the American Indian, the African American Museum, the National Zoo, the Smithsonian Castle, and the American Art Museum). If you visit in the spring, you’ll get to see the cherry blossoms bloom along the Mall.

22. Learn about Mt. Rushmore

Completed in 1941, this historic monument in the Black Hills of South Dakota is a lot smaller than you expect, but it makes a good stop while driving. Originally, the indigenous Lakota Sioux inhabited this area, however, when gold was found in the hills, white settlers forcibly removed them from their homeland. At the Wounded Knee massacre, U.S. forces killed over 250 indigenous women and children. Decades later, Rushmore was built, much to the dismay of the local indigenous population, who consider the land to be sacred. Take a guided tour to learn more about this iconic monument’s complex and tragic history.

23. Be a kid at Disney World

Sure, it’s cheesy . Yes, it’s built for kids. True, it’s not authentic. But despite all that, Disney World is still a fun time and they have a lot of rides for adults too. I recently went back as an adult and there’s a lot to do there: they have some good restaurants, and Disney Springs has a fun nightlife. If you are in Florida, take a stop for a few days. Indulge your inner child. Tickets cost around $110 USD per day and go up from there.

24. Hike the Appalachian Mountains

Stretching the east coast of America, these mountains are almost 500 million years old and offer great hiking, camping, and trekking. For a multi-month adventure, hike the 2,190-mile (3,524-kilometer) Appalachian Trail which covers the entire mountain range and takes 5-7 months to complete. You can also do day hikes or weekend hikes of its various sections if you want a more manageable outdoor getaway.

25. Unwind in Put-In-Bay

One of the coolest, not-so-hidden places in the U.S. is this group of islands in Lake Erie. Widely known to Midwesterners (but unknown to most everyone else), South Bass Island is home to Put-in-Bay, where Midwest hospitality meets Caribbean vibes (you ride around in golf carts and bars have sand as floors). My favorite spot is Mojito Bay, an outdoor tiki bar with sand floors and swings for bar seats that offers up more than 25 different mojitos. These places get very wild on the weekends too.

26. Explore Maine

Tucked away up in the northeast, Maine evokes images of endless shorelines, wild forests, iconic lighthouses, and lots and lots of lobster dinners. It’s often overlooked yet it’s incredibly beautiful and perfect for a short road trip. Don’t miss trying lobster rolls (a regional favorite) and hiking in Acadia National Park. Portland has some great eateries (such as Duckfat and Eventide Oyster Co.) and picturesque historic lighthouses, including Maine’s oldest operating lighthouse, the Portland Head Light, which opened in 1791 when George Washington was president. Additionally, tiny Bangor is home to tons of breweries and Moosehead State Park is an incredible place to go hiking for a few days. And you can’t go wrong stopping in any of the quintessential New England fishing villages up and down the coast. Maine is one of the best states in the union!

27. Take a road trip

The only good way to see this vast and diverse landscape and the small towns that populate it is with a road trip . I highly suggest renting a car and driving across the U.S. It’s an amazing experience. I’ve done several coast-to-coast trips as well as regional trips around New England , California , and the South . It’s the best way to see the country and you can do it for under $50 USD a day.

For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars .

28. Take a tour

You can find all sorts of amazing walking tours, bike tours, and food tours all around the country. They’re a great way to get an in-depth look at the city you’re in with the help of an expert local guide. Take Walks is my go-to walking tour company when I’m looking for something thorough and insightful (and fun). They can get you behind the scenes and are much more comprehensive than your average free walking tour.

For information on specific cities in the United States, check out these city guides:

• Austin Travel Guide
• Boston Travel Guide
• Chicago Travel Guide
• Hawaii Travel Guide
• Las Vegas Travel Guide
• Los Angeles Travel Guide
• Miami Travel Guide
• New York Travel Guide
• Philadelphia Travel Guide
• San Francisco Travel Guide
• Seattle Travel Guide
• Washington D.C. Travel Guide

United States Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostels can be found in most major cities, though options are generally slim in the country. A bed in a dorm room with 4-6 beds usually costs between $35-55 USD per night. Rooms with more beds are marginally cheaper (they start around $25-30 USD per night). Private rooms are usually $75-125 USD. Expect prices on the higher end in bigger cities and during peak season. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have self-catering facilities. Hostels with free breakfast are rare.

If you plan on camping, expect to pay at least $20-30 USD per night for a basic tent plot for two without electricity.

Cheap motels usually start around $60-75 USD per night and can be found along any highway. Expect basic amenities like TV, Wi-Fi, and AC. Some have pools.

Budget two-star hotels start at $90 USD per night. But, in major cities like NYC, LA, or Chicago, they start closer to $125 USD. The U.S. is very vast and prices fluctuate a lot depending on what region you’re in so check out the specific city guides listed above for more detailed information on accommodation. The United States is too diverse to pin down a specific number!

Airbnb is available around the country, with private rooms starting at $40 USD per night, though for good rooms, you’ll likely pay closer to $60 USD. For an entire home/apartment, expect to pay at least $100 USD per night. Prices in large cities are usually double. Again, there’s a lot of variation depending on where you’re going so check out the city guides for more specific prices!

Food – From seafood in New England to BBQ in the South to Tex-Mex and organic whole foods in the West to German influenced food in the Midwest, there is no singular food culture in the US. Every region has its own staples, which means you’ll never get bored of eating your way around the country.

Since the country is so big, prices for food vary a lot. What is $5 USD in Kansas is probably $15 USD in New York City. Below are some country averages but, if visiting a big metropolis/coastal city, add about 25% to the price.

Grab-and-go sandwiches usually cost around $10 USD while fast food costs $10-12 USD for a combo meal. Meals from food trucks will cost between $10-15 USD. Mid-range casual restaurants cost between $25-30 USD for a meal and drink. At some place a little nicer (think white table cloth), expect to spend at least $60 USD per person on dinner. Prices go up from there and the sky is the limit. Again, consult the city and destination guides for specific prices.

You can generally find takeout pizzas for around $10-15 USD while Chinese and Thai cuisine start around $10-12 USD for a main dish.

Beer is around $6-8 USD, a glass of wine is $8-10 USD, and cocktails start at $14 USD in most cities (about $20 USD in NYC though!). A latte/cappuccino is $4-5 USD and bottled water is $2 USD.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay about $60-80 USD per week for basic staples like rice, pasta, vegetables, and some meat.

Backpacking the United States Suggested Budgets

How much does it cost to visit the United States? Well, how much you spend largely depends on where in the United States you’re going to visit. For example, New York City is much more expensive than Memphis and San Francisco is going to hit your budget harder than Boise. The South is cheaper than the North and the interior states are cheaper than the coasts. The comparisons are endless! However, this overview can give you a basic look at what to expect based on your travel style and assuming you’re going to mix cheap and expensive destinations.

On a backpacking budget of $75 USD per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook your meals, use public transportation to get around, limit your drinking, and do free activities like walking tours, hiking, and hanging out at beaches. If you plan on drinking, add another $10-20 USD per day. If you can camp or Couchsurf, you can likely get this down to $50-60 USD per day.

On a mid-range budget of $210 USD per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or motel, eat out for most meals, enjoy some drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like museum visits and food tours.

On an upscale budget of $350 USD or more per day, you can stay in a midrange hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car to get around, and do as many guided tours and activities as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

United States Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

There are plenty of ways to save money when you travel the U.S. but it varies a lot by region (as I’ve been repeating). The general tips below can help you get started but, for more specific tips, visit my city guides.

• Take a free tour – Taking a free walking tour is the best way to get introduced to a new place, and most major cities in the U.S. have free walking tours. You get to see the main sights and ask all your questions to a local guide. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Take the bus – The cheapest way to get around the U.S. is by bus. Bus fares cost as little as $1 USD, though 2-3-hour journeys start around $30 USD. Between cities, the best companies are Megabus, Greyhound, and FlixBus.
• Redeem hotel points – Be sure to sign up for hotel credit cards before you go and use those points when you travel. This is especially helpful in big cities. Be aware that most hotels charge parking fees if you have a car.
• Get a U.S. Park Pass – This national park pass lets you into all the national parks for free so you don’t have to keep paying admission. The annual fee is $80 USD and it pays for itself after four parks.
• Cook – The United States has some of the cheapest groceries in the developed world, while eating out here can add up quickly once you factor in a tip and tax (which varies by state). Grocery shopping can about $60 USD per week and is way cheaper and healthier than eating out every day. Cook and save!
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing lets you stay with a local for free, cutting your accommodation costs drastically. You’ll get to spend time with a local who can share their tips and advice while sharing your own travel stories and culture. You can also use the app to meet people for activities (coffee, museum visits, etc.) if you don’t feel comfortable staying with a stranger.
• Camp – Most campsites start around $20-30 USD per night for a tent — much cheaper than a hostel. You can use nps.gov to find campsites run by the National Park Service. You can also camp for free in National Forests or Bureau Land Management (BLM) lands (search for “dispersed camping” options). Just be sure to respect the environment and follow Leave No Trace principles when camping.
• Use city tourism cards – City tourism cards allow you to see a large number of attractions (and often include free public transportation) for one low price, usually $75–100 USD. If you plan on seeing a lot, these can save you a ton.
• Share your ride – If you have a car, taking on riders can be a way to lower your costs. On my first trip across the U.S., I offered rides to people I met in hostels. On another trip, I had friends and readers join me along the way. You can post ads on Craigslist and at hostels to find riders. This not only makes the trip more enjoyable but lowers your gas costs too. If you don’t have a car, you can use look for rides in the same places.
• Stay at roadside hotels – There are a plethora of cheap roadside hotels such as Motel 6 and Super 8 to the rescue. Rooms start around $60-75 USD a night (plus tax). They’re great when you’re traveling with someone and can split the cost.
• Find free museums and events – Inquire at tourism offices, use Google, or ask hotel or hostel staff for information about free events and museums. Many museums offer free or discounted admission times throughout the week.
• Get free water or free refills – If you order a drink, most restaurants allow free refills while you eat your meal or refills at a low cost. If you ask, tap water is usually provided for free.
• Save on gas – If you’re on a road trip, use the app GasBuddy to find cheap gas near you. Also, sign up for gas station loyalty programs as they can save you money on fill ups.

Where to Stay in the United States

Hostels are not all that plentiful across the United States yet. Generally, those that do exist are clean, social, and fun. You’ll find a lot of budget hotels wherever you go. here are some of my recommended places to stay around the USA (the cities guides will have even more suggestions):

• HI Hostel (Boston)
• The Revolution Hotel (Boston)
• HI Hostel (Chicago)
• The Arlo (Chicago)
• Banana Bungalow (Los Angeles)
• Hollywood Historic Hotel Los Angeles
• Hostel Memphis (Memphis)
• Hu Hotel (Memphis)
• Freehand (Miami)
• Hotel Ocean (Miami)
• HI New Orleans (New Orleans)
• Villa Convento (New Orleans)
• The Local (New York City)
• Heritage Hotel (New York City)
• ITH Adventure Hostel (San Diego)
• Old Town Inn (San Diego)
• The Green Tortoise (San Francisco)
• SW Hotel (San Francisco)
• The Green Tortoise (Seattle)
• MarQueen Hotel (Seattle)

How to Get Around the United States

City transportation – Most U.S. cities have public transportation, including metro systems and buses. Fares cost around $2-3 USD for a single journey, but there are usually packaged options for visitors. For example, you can get a 7-day unlimited MetroCard in New York City for $34 USD, which covers both buses and the subway system, while San Francisco offers a 7-day transit pass for $41 USD.

Outside of major cities, subways are rare. Some of the smaller cities have trams. Everywhere has a bus though and that’s usually the best way to get around.

Taxis – Taxis are metered with charges starting around $3 USD plus $2-3 USD per mile. This is one of the most expensive ways to get around, however, so I’d skip it unless you have no other choice.

Ridesharing – Uber and Lyft are generally cheaper than taxis and are the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to take a bus or pay for a taxi.

Intercity Bus – Taking the bus is one of the cheapest options for getting around the country, with fares as low as $1 USD if you book far enough in advance. Popular bus companies include:

A 4-5-hour bus ride from New York to Washington D.C. starts at $30 USD, while the 7-hour journey from Chicago to Detroit starts at $27 USD. Austin to New Orleans is around $54 USD. Booking early can save you upwards of 50% so try to plan ahead if you’re going to be taking the bus.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Flying – Flying is your quickest option for long distance. You can occasionally find sales for as little as $100 USD so it’s worth it to check several websites ahead of time to see what deals are on. Post-COVID, fares are a lot higher than they were in the past. But if you find a deal, book in advance, or go off season, you can usually get a cheap fare. Sample one-way fares include San Francisco to Maui for $100-150 USD, Seattle to Austin for $85-115 USD, or New York to L.A. for $250 USD (round trip). However, prices can easily double if booked last minute.

For more information on how to find a cheap flight, check out this article .

Train – Amtrak is the rail provider for the United States, but it’s not the quickest or most affordable way to travel. They have routes all around the country ( here’s their route map ) and offer a cross-country pass for $499 USD. The USA Rail Pass gives you 30 days of travel over 10 segments, which averages out to around $50 USD per leg.

If you have a valid student ID you can save 15% on your tickets.

As for prices, A 20-hour train ride from Chicago to New Orleans costs around $110 USD, while a multi-day trip from New York to Los Angeles is around $280 USD. Book in advance to find the best deals. Shorter trips lasting 2-4 hours are usually under $40 USD.

Car rental – Roadtripping is a great way to explore the country, and car rentals can be found for as little as $35 USD for a multi-day rental. Renters need to be at least 21 years old. For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars .

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in the United States is common and safe. Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Pack plenty of water and a light meal or two, like sandwiches and fruit. Hitchwiki is a great resource for additional hitchhiking tips.

When to Go to the United States

Since the United States is such a large country, the climate and temperature change drastically from coast to coast and from north to south.

The northern states have clearly defined seasons. In cities like Chicago, Boston, and New York, winter can bring heavy snowfall and more severe temperatures. Coastal areas like Seattle and Portland, Oregon, tend to be milder. Spring can start as late as May in the northernmost parts of the country, but this is a good time to visit because the weather begins to warm up and the busy tourist season hasn’t started yet. Summers are gorgeous and temperatures climb into the 80s°F (30s°C). It’s also the busiest time of year for tourism. Autumn is a wonderful time to visit the northern states because many parts of this region have a lot of trees. Temperatures have cooled, crowds have dwindled, and the changing leaves offer an something extra to enjoy.

The southern states have less defined seasons. In the southwest, winters tend to be dry and mild. In the southeast, temperatures are mild but places like and Memphis can be rainy. Spring is a wonderful time to visit this part of the country because temperatures are warm but not stifling. Summers get incredibly hot and humid in the southeast. In the desert areas of the southwest, like Las Vegas, temperatures can soar well above 104°F (40°C) on some days. Autumn cools things off across the southern states, but can also bring severe weather in the southeast. .

Ultimately, the best time to travel to the United States depends on where you’re headed and what kind of activities you’d like to do. Visit our city guides for more specific information on when to go.

How to Stay Safe in the United States

The United States is a massive country and “safety” changes a lot depending on where you go and what you do. Generally, the US safe place to travel around — even if you’re traveling solo.

Violent attacks tend to be confined to certain areas (especially where drug and gang violence are a problem). You may encounter petty crime, like theft, especially around popular tourist landmarks and in larger cities, especially on the west coast where theft is a much more common problem. Keep an eye on your belongings at all times, especially while taking crowded public transportation.

Gun violence and mass shootings tend to dominate headlines when they happen. However, the chances of it happening to you are slim. Do not let this discourage you from exploring the United States. The U.S. is very big and very, very diverse. And, due to this size, there is a lot of cultural (and political) variation. Despite what you hear, crime in America is low. (There was far more crime in the US in the 1990s!). For more information, read this post, “ Is it Safe to Visit the United States?”

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Take common sense safety measures and you’ll be fine.

Moreover, be sure to read about common travel scams to avoid here .

When hiking, always bring water and sunscreen. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe but all the standard safety cautions apply. For specific tips, I would read one of the many incredible solo female travel blogs on the web. They’ll give you tips and advice that I can’t.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

United States Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

United States Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on United States travel and continue planning your trip:

How to Experience Milwaukee Like a Local

The 7 Best Hotels in New York City

The 7 Best Hotels in Miami

Where to Stay in Miami: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

How to Spend 24 Hours in Raleigh, North Carolina

The 6 Best Hotels in Austin

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

• Work With Us
• Blogging Bootcamp

• Van Conversion Academy
• Campervan Shop
• Campervan Rentals
• Plan a Trip
• Itineraries
• Destinations
• Responsible Travel
• Family Travel
• Budget Travel
• Scuba Diving
• Travel Credit Cards
• Digital Nomad
• Teach English Abroad
• Blogging Resources
• Income Reports
• Travel Shop
• Meet Katie & Ben
• About Two Wandering Soles
• Personal Stuff
• Portfolio & Press

31 USA Road Trip Ideas + Tips

Home » Blog » U.S.A. » 31 USA Road Trip Ideas + Tips

Heading out on a USA road trip this summer? This MASSIVE list is packed with routes recommended by travel bloggers all around the US sharing tips about their favorite American road trips. From the West Coast to Key West, this article has the best routes for your next open road adventure!

Imagine this: The windows are down and the wind blows through your hair as your favorite playlist blasts through your car’s speakers. You sing along and soak up the feeling of freedom that only comes with driving on the open road.

The United States is one of the best countries in the world for road tripping. And we’re not just saying that… With mountains, deserts, beaches, forests and lakes, you can’t argue the natural beauty and diversity the U.S. has to offer.

On top of the sheer amount of places to see around the country, the U.S. is also very well-suited for road trips. 

With clean drinking water accessible in most parts of the country, roadside rest stops (ahem, public toilets!), well-maintained roads, relatively affordable gas prices, and lots of camping options, it’s hard to find any other country that comes close to the ease and accessibility that the USA offers when it comes to road tripping.

Article contents

• Getting started
• Tips for planning your road trip
• USA road trip routes

Ultimate Road Trip Packing List!

Whether you are staying in a hotel, living in a campervan or RV, or you’re trekking in the backcountry, here is everything you’ll want to pack on a road trip . Plus tips and advice on making your next road trip go as smoothly as possible!

Start planning your perfect USA road trip

Make your way along famous highways, like Route 66 through the heartlands of the country, or California’s iconic Highway 1. Venture on lesser-known backroads and escape the crowds and get lost along the way. 

Drive through charming small towns and big, lively cities. Explore National Parks or get off the beaten path in State Forests and protected lands.

There are literally endless road trip routes you could take, and choosing the best one for you depends on what exactly you’re looking for.

• Do you want to explore any National Parks on your trip?
• Do you want to see iconic sites or get off the beaten path?
• Do you plan to camp or stay in hotels? (If you plan on camping, our advice is to download The Dyrt, an app that’ll take your campervan game to the next level. Use this link to get 30 days of the Pro Membership totally free – no strings attached).
• Are you more into nature or cities? (Or maybe you want a combination of both!)
• How long do you have? Maybe you have the entire summer to do as you wish and you’re planning an epic 3-month road trip. Or maybe you just have a few days to spare between work weeks.

Whatever type of getaway you’re craving, there is a perfect USA road trip out there waiting for you!

Tips for planning your USA Road Trip

Use these helpful tips to start planning your USA road trip. If you want a more detailed breakdown, we have an entire guide that walks you through how to plan a road trip , packed with hacks and expert advice.

1. Research your destination

Find out what the weather will be like in your destination during the time of year you plan to travel. Check average temperatures in the area to know what to expect and how to pack. 

Consult city guides and other travel resources to figure out which highlights to stop at and which tourist traps to avoid. You can get a lot of information simply from typing “things to do in…” and then entering your destination into Google. 

Buying a guidebook will give you tons of insider advice and helpful information at your fingertips. 

Having a physical guidebook allows you to have all the info you need in one place; plus, you can make notes and highlights (anyone else love being able to do this?!). And you won’t have to worry about losing signal on your phone while exploring — this happens a lot in the mountains! — because you’ll have all the tips you need with a turn of a page.

If you plan on visiting any National Parks during your trip, listen up… 

Moon USA National Parks is one of the best guidebooks we’ve found for exploring the United States. 

This 700-page guide goes through each of America’s 62 National Parks and explains the history, best hikes, iconic viewpoints, and places to stay. Plus, it includes maps of each park so you can plan your itinerary accordingly. This guidebook will be a super handy tool while on the road.

Bonus: The Moon guidebook has super beautiful photography, making it a fun coffee table book after your trip (and possibly to inspire future travels).

2. Choose your method of transportation

Consider your options for transportation on your USA road trip…

• Your own car: No need to pay for a rental vehicle if you have your own—just be sure it can handle the conditions and terrain you plan to traverse on your road trip.
• Campervan or RV: Our personal favorite way to go on a road trip and for so many reasons ! It gives you the ultimate freedom, you save money on hotels and can get off the grid, to name just a few. 
• For example, we rented a small SUV for a road trip in Washington state and paid less than $30 per day!

Wanna test out #VanLife?

It’s no secret we are big fans of #vanlife. If you don’t have the time (or interest!) in building your own conversion but you still want to give van life a test drive on your USA road trip, we’ve tons of ideas for you! Check out our list of top companies for USA Campervan Rentals , from budget to bougie, including exclusive discounts for our readers!

Or, if you’re planning on exploring a certain region and want more specific recommendations, click on one of the links below.

• Campervan rentals in Portland, Oregon
• Campervan rentals in Seattle, Washington
• Campervan rentals in Salt Lake City, Utah

One company we’d recommend looking into is Escape Campervans . They have 12 different locations across North America and come fully loaded with all the gear you need for an epic road trip. Plus, their rates are fair and affordable.

BONUS: We’ve partnered with them to give you a 10% off discount when you use our link !

3. Set a budget and plot out your accommodation

A road trip budget will vary from person to person, but having an idea in mind of how much you plan to spend beforehand is always a good idea. 

You can find out exactly how much money we spent on our first vanlife experience in the US in our 3 month road trip budget breakdown . If you’re traveling on a budget, you’ll want to check out these money-saving tips for a cheap road trip . 

Once you have a good idea of the costs to factor in a road trip budget and a reasonable idea of how much you’re able to spend, it’s time to start booking accommodation!

Since we are usually traveling in our campervan on road trips, we tend to seek out campsites as accommodation, but you can choose to stay in hotels or Airbnbs as well. 

Psst! Read our tips for booking an Airbnb if you’re not familiar with the site.

If you’re traveling in a campervan or on a tight budget, camping is the way to go! We have some great tips for finding free campsites along the way. Another suggestion is to get familiar with campsite apps—a great resource for finding campsites along your route and filtering for your specific needs.

Our recommendation: Our favorite camping app is The Dyrt because it has the largest network of campsites in the USA (and has some other really cool features). It has both free and paid versions, but we’ve got a special link just for our readers which will give you 30 days of the Pro membership totally FREE!

4. Save money with the America the Beautiful Park Pass

You’ll notice many of these epic USA road trips include stops at some of our National Parks. Entrance fees to the US National Parks can run you upwards of $30+ per vehicle for each park, which can really add up. 

If you’re planning to stop at more than one National Parks on your road trip, you may want to think about getting the America the Beautiful Park Pass to save money. 

At just $80 for a full year, the pass grants you free access to over 2,000 Federal recreation areas in the United States, including all 62 National Parks. We put together an article detailing the America the Beautiful Park Pass and answering the question, is it truly worthwhile?

5. Download maps and entertainment offline

You don’t want to be ripping through your data plan while on the road. In order to avoid those pesky overage fees, you can download your navigation (hello Google maps offline feature!) and entertainment like Spotify playlists, podcasts and audiobooks to your device so you can listen offline. 

Downloading Google Maps offline is super simple and you will be able to get real-time GPS coordinates, search the map for nearby establishments and turn on directions from point to point, all without using any data. 

Follow these steps to download Google Maps offline:

• Download and sign into the Google Maps application (it’s connected with your Gmail account).
• Search for a destination in the search bar. (Example: “San Francisco” or “Idaho”)
• The top half of your screen should populate with a map of your destination while the bottom half shares details about the place. Swipe up so the details fill your screen. Then just under the Location, toggle to the right past the labels for “Directions,” “Save,” “Label,” etc. until you see “Download”. 
• Make sure you’re on WiFi, center the map in the area you will be driving, and click the “download” button.

The map data from this region will now be on your phone, and can be accessed even when you have no cell signal! You’ll even be able to see your current GPS location as long as you have it authorized. (Settings > Google Maps > Location > select “Always”)

Best USA Road Trips

We’ve called on some travel bloggers to share their top American Road Trips. We’re even adding a few of our own favorite road trips in there!

All the road trips below are broken down by region in the United States, and each route includes how many days you should plan to be on the road, best time of year to travel, and the top things to do along the way.

If you know which region you’re interested in, click on the link below to jump straight to that section. Otherwise, keep scrolling down for ALL the inspiration you can handle!

• West Coast USA
• Western USA
• Hawaii & Alaska
• Midwest USA
• Southern USA
• Eastern USA

Psst! Get motivated to plan your next adventure with this list of inspiring road trip quotes (+ graphics!).

West Coast USA Road Trips

With the Pacific Ocean to the west and mountains and deserts to the east, this part of the country is one of the best places to take a road trip. 

You’ll be able to explore some of the most exciting cities in the United States, like San Francisco , Los Angeles, Portland, and Seattle. Plus, the West Coast boasts some of the best sunsets in the nation.

Road Trips:

• Pacific Coast Highway
• Oregon Coast & Forests Road Trip
• San Francisco to Seattle: Coastal Drive
• Seattle to San Francisco: Inland Route
• Washington State Road Trip
• Olympic Peninsula
• Yosemite to Sequoia National Park
• Lake Tahoe to Eastern Sierra
• Eastern Oregon Road Trip

1. Pacific Coast Highway in California

This gorgeous USA road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway will lead you across one of the most beautiful regions in the country. With mesmerizing beaches, ample palm trees, and perfect weather, the journey is an ideal two-week getaway.

• Route: Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip
• At a glance: San Francisco – Yosemite National Park – Santa Barbara – LA – San Diego
• Distance: 731 miles
• Duration: 12 days
• When to go: June-August; summer is the perfect time for this road trip since the water will be warm enough for a quick dip along the way!

Begin your road trip in San Francisco. Catch a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge before all the tourists wake up in the morning, then head to Fisherman’s Wharf. Grab some lunch at one of the many restaurants and visit a few historical ships along the way. Rent a bike and spend some time touring the streets, including one of the oldest Chinatowns in the country and Union Square, a modern plaza.

Spend the next day exploring the Google Campus in Mountain View before jumping back into your car and heading east, where you can spend a day or two hiking in Yosemite National Park amongst the breath-taking landscape.

Next, head south towards Santa Barbara, where you can enjoy some delicious seafood and a more laid-back vibe. There are many things to do in Santa Barbara , including visits to wineries, a walk along the shoreline, and a short hike at Lizard’s Mouth, which is a beautiful viewpoint that overlooks the entire city. 

Spend two days relaxing along the coast before making your way down to Los Angeles.

Located two hours south of Santa Barbara, L.A. can keep you busy for days. A walk along Hollywood Blvd will prepare you for the glam and glitz of the city. Check out the Hollywood Sign and catch a movie at the TCL Chinese Theater before grabbing some dinner at the Hollywood and Highland Center. 

Spend the following day at Universal Studio Hollywood, before heading south to Orange County.

Orange County has a few beautiful beaches, including Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, and Huntington Beach. A day can be spent beach-hopping before heading to Disneyland in Anaheim the following day.

The last two days will be spent in San Diego visiting the Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo. Hike and scuba dive at La Jolla Cove and end your Pacific Highway road trip with one last dip in the ocean!

• Ride in a street trolley in San Francisco
• Hike Yosemite and catch a sunrise!
• Grab a photo of the Golden Gate Bridge from Battery Spencer Viewpoint
• Go winery hopping in Santa Barbara
• Have some fresh oysters right by the Santa Barbara Harbor
• Hike to the Hollywood sign in L.A.

Contributed by: Daisy Li from Beyond My Border

2. Oregon Coast & Forests Road Trip

This road trip takes you through quirky Portland and charming oceanside towns. You’ll adventure in the mountains, find hot springs, and explore one of the coolest National Parks in the US. Let’s go! 

• Route: Oregon Coast & Forests road trip
• At a glance: Portland – Hood River – Bend – Crater Lake – Samuel H. Boardman State Corridor – Cannon Beach – Portland
• Distance: 1,100 miles
• Duration: 10 – 12 days
• When to go: May – October will give you the best weather, and the earlier and later end of the spectrum will help you avoid the summertime crowds. Enjoy fall foliage in mid-October!

After exploring the quirky sights of Portland , head east along the Columbia River Gorge. Make a day of it and see as many waterfalls as you can before stopping for the night in charming Hood River where you can see people windsurfing on the Columbia River.

Heading south, you’ll enter Mount Hood National Forest, which offers lots of hiking if you have the time. Stop at Trillium Lake for a picnic with unrivaled views of the volcanic mountain.

Heading even further south, you’ll reach the beautiful town of Bend , which is a fun place to explore for a day. For a fun little side trip, head past the small town of Sisters and into the Willamette National Forest where you can find waterfalls and the incredibly vibrant Tamolitch Blue Pools.

Continuing further south, spend a couple days taking in the sights and hikes in Crater Lake National Park , and hunting for hot springs in Umpqua National Forest .

Short on time? If you’re short on time, you can cut over to the coast and head back to Portland along the ocean.

But if you have the time, there are more adventures to be had. Explore the cute little town of Ashland, and if you’re lucky you might be able to catch one of their famous Shakespeare Festival, which happens all summer long.

You’ll actually need to cross into California briefly before returning into Oregon to see the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. The name of this park is long, but the ocean views are some of the best in the state! 

After you’ve explored to your heart’s content, make your way north through all sorts of cute coastal towns, stopping whenever you get the urge. (We liked the town of Bandon, and enjoyed seafood and sunset here!)

On your way back to Portland, stop at the Tillamook Creamery for some of their famous cheese and ice cream, and spend the night in Cannon Beach so you can see the iconic sea stacks at sunset.

• Sample all the craft beer you can in Portland
• Go chasing waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge
• Picnic with views of Mount Hood at Trillium Lake
• Explore the fun towns of Bend, Hood River and Ashland
• Hike to Tamolitch Blue Pools for some of the bluest water you’ll ever see!
• Explore Samuel H. Boardman State Park for some of the most epic ocean views in the state 
• Eat clams and seafood in one of the many small towns along the coast. We loved Tony’s Crab Shack in Bandon.
• See the sea stacks on Cannon Beach at sunset
• Stop at the Tillamook Creamery for the famous cheese and ice cream

Helpful resources for your Oregon road trip:

• If the coast is calling your name and you’d rather spend all your time near the ocean, we have a huge Oregon coast road trip guide to help you customize your itinerary and plan your trip.
• If you’re interested in traveling by campervan (highly recommend!), be sure to check out the best campervan rentals in Portland .

Recommended by Katie and Ben from Two Wandering Soles

3. San Francisco to Seattle: Coastal Drive

This San Francisco to Seattle drive is a scenic route that includes the dramatic California and Oregon coastlines and stops at a few national and state parks. Since most of this USA road trip follows the Pacific Coast Highway, the views from the drive alone will be stunning.

• Route: San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA (coastal drive)
• At a glance: San Francisco – Mendocino – Florence – Redwood National Park – Cannon Beach – Olympic National Forest – Seattle
• Distance: 920 miles
• Duration: 2 weeks 
• When to go: June – October. Summer months bring pleasant temperatures and mostly sunny skies. Visiting in the early Fall is great because there are fewer tourists and the weather is still mild.

The drive begins in San Francisco. Visiting the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, riding the trolley, and hopping over to Sausalito, there is plenty to do and eat in a couple of days.

After taking in the sights in San Fran, begin driving north to Mendocino. This charming coastal northern California town has scenic kayaking and biking opportunities, as well as hiking trails nearby. 

The last stop in northern California is to explore the majestic redwoods. In addition to Redwood National Park, there are many state parks that have redwood forests. 

Continue your route along the coast until the next stop in Florence, Oregon. Florence is where you can hop on an ATV and explore the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. 

Then continue along the Pacific Coast Highway making stops along Oregon’s gorgeous and charming coast line. A highlight is a stop in Cannon Beach , one of the cutest towns on the Oregon Coast, where the famed Haystack Rock is just a few feet offshore. 

The final leg of the journey is the drive towards Seattle, with a stop at Olympic National Park . After admiring the beauty of the Pacific Northwest coastline, this park showcases even more of Washington’s untouched nature. 

Seattle is the last stop on the road trip. Visiting the classic attractions such as the Space Needle and Pike Place Market are some of the top things to do in Seattle . 

• Walk along the Golden Gate Bridge, stroll Fisherman’s Wharf, take a ferry to Alcatraz Island and take a ride on a trolley in San Francisco
• Kayak sea caves and go biking along the Big River in Mendocino, California
• Hike along trails in Redwood National Park
• Ride an ATV on the Oregon Sand Dunes
• Take a walk on the beach during low tide to Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach and have some coffee at the Sleepy Monk
• Hike some scenic trails in Olympic National Park
• Grab some lunch at Pike Place Chowder and witness the views from the Space Needle in Seattle

Contributed by: Margie from DQ Family Travel

4. Seattle to San Francisco: Inland Route

This lesser explored route between the two major cities takes you inland to national and state parks you’ve probably never heard of, chasing waterfalls and hiking mountains.

• Route: West Coast Inland Road Trip – Adventures and Waterfall Hikes
• At a glance: Washington – Oregon – California
• Distance: 807 miles
• Duration: 2 weeks
• When to go: Fall – So you can see those incredible fall colors and the crowds have left.

Your first day will be spent just outside Seattle exploring some of the waterfall hikes like Snoqualmie, Franklin and Twin Falls. 

Meander your way down into Mount Rainier National Park for the next day or two and take it all in, there’s a lot going on there.

Then make your way to the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon, where you’ll see some of the most beautiful Oregon waterfalls . Multnomah Falls is famous and absolutely worth a gander, but there are other falls worth a visit. We also recommend the underrated Dry Creek Falls, which is actually way better than it sounds.

Wrap up your first week on the road by riding through Bend, Oregon, the adventure capital of the state! Smith Rock State Park is a must and treat yourself to as many craft beers as you’d like.

As you make your way to California, you can stop off to do some hiking in Crater Lake National ,  before you bid adieu to Oregon. Lassen National Park and Lava Beds National Monuments aren’t as well-known, but have some great hikes and incredible views. Kings Creek Falls hike is known for bear sightings!

As you wrap up your inland Seattle to San Francisco road trip , take time to visit Burney Falls, one of the most spectacular waterfalls you’ll probably ever see, Big Trees National Park and Muir Woods National Monument.

Highlights 

• Mount Rainier National Park is a playground for hikes, exploring, and seeing those epic fall colors!
• Find out all the fun things to do in Bend, Oregon — hands down the best city in the area. (I’m only sort of biased)—a visit to Smith Rock State Park, the craft beer scene, lots of hikes , waterfalls, floating down the river… There’s so much to do and the area is gorgeous.
• Burney Falls is STUNNING.
• The Columbia River Gorge in its entirety and getting the less popular spots like Dry Creek Falls all to yourselves will be epic—not many wander up there.
• Seeing Crater Lake at sunset is incredibly majestic.

Contributed by: Nina Ragusa from Where in the World is Nina?

Psst! We have a guide to the best campervan rentals in Seattle that will be super helpful if you’re thinking about this route!

5. Washington State Road Trip

Washington State is packed with some of the most stunning natural landscapes you’ll find in the United States. There is so much more to this PNW state than Seattle, and if you get out of the city limits, you’ll find adventure and beauty abound. This route will bring you through some of the most beautiful places in this state.

• Route: Best of Washington State
• At a glance: Seattle – San Juan Islands – North Cascades National Park – Winthrop – Lake Chelan & Stehekin – Leavenworth – Seattle
• Distance: 500 miles
• Duration: 10 – 12 days, with options to add on 2 – 4 days for the Olympic Peninsula (find the itinerary below)
• When to go: May – October

Start your road trip in Seattle, and spend a day or two exploring the city if you’ve never been. Once you leave the city limits, the real adventure begins! 

Heading north, you’ll come to the seaside town of Anacortes, from which you can take a ferry to the San Juan Islands. Explore the cute island towns, and if your budget allows, splurge on a whale watching tour – it’s one of the best places in North America to do it!

Once you’re back on the mainland, head into the mountains. North Cascades National Park is home to the most epic scenery you’ll see on this trip, so stop often and take lots of photos along the way. Mount Baker National Forest is a great place for hiking, and you’ll get stunning views at Diablo Lake and Ross Lake.

Continue east on Highway 20 and you’ll come to Washington Pass, where you’ll definitely want to get out of your car and bring your camera! The next stop is the Western style town of Winthrop, which is a fun stop for a beer before heading on to Lake Chelan.

This narrow, 50.5-mile lake almost looks like a river from the map, but it’s possible to take a ferry to the opposite end of the lake, where the tiny town of Stehekin lies. With fewer than 80 permanent residents, Stehekin is a great place to get away from it all, go hiking, stay in a cozy cabin, and eat at the town’s famous bakery. 

Now it’s time to make your way to the Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth . Home to lots of cute shops and breweries, it’s a nice place to relax. 

If you have the time, try to get out and explore the nature surrounding the town, as it is absolutely magnificent (Colchuck Lake is one of our favorite hikes!). If you want an extra adventure, book a trip with our friends at Wildwater Rafting for a fun time on the Wenatchee River!

Your drive back on Highway 2 is beautiful and passes by a couple waterfalls and viewpoints. If you’re hungry, stop at a local favorite, Sultan Bakery, for donuts and famous sandwiches before arriving back in Seattle.

Tip: Be sure to stay at some of Washington’s best campsites along the way!

• Visit Seattle’s famous sites : Pike’s Place Market, the Post Alley Gum Wall, and the Space Needle, then explore the Fremont neighborhood where you can sample the city’s best craft beer and seek out the famous Fremont Troll.
• Go whale watching in the San Juan Islands
• Hike as much as you can in North Cascades National Park: Diablo Lake and Mount Baker are highlights
• Take a ferry on Lake Chelan to the tiny town of Stehekin. Don’t forget to eat at the town bakery!
• Sample German pretzels and beer in the Bavarian town of Leavenworth

6. Olympic Peninsula Washington

With driftwood-strewn beaches, temperate rainforests, mountains and waterfalls, Olympic National Park is packed full of beauty and adventure. This short but sweet route brings you through the best of the Olympic Peninsula .

• Route: Olympic National Park and Beaches  
• At a glance: Seattle – ferry to Bainbridge Island – Port Angeles – La Push – Olympia – Seattle
• Distance: 550 miles
• Duration: 2-4 days

The Olympic Peninsula is just a short drive from Seattle, making it a great weekend camping trip, or a good addition to a longer PNW road trip. The quickest way to get to the OP is by taking the ferry to Bainbridge Island. You can find the schedule here .

Once you’re back on the road, make your way to Hurricane Ridge where you can enjoy epic mountain views and explore the trails in Olympic National Park . On a clear day, you can even see the ocean! 

Spend the night at Lyre River Campground, which is free and absolutely beautiful. Try to arrive early, as it is first come, first served. In the morning, head inland to explore Lake Crescent and Sol Duc Falls before making your way back to the coast and preparing for a hike. 

Walking out to Shi Shi Beach will likely be a highlight of your time in the OP (especially if you’re a photographer). If you have the time and camping equipment, plan to spend the night at Shi Shi and enjoy an epic sunset with few other people around.   

The next morning, hike out and get back on the road. You’ll pass through Forks, the small town made famous by the Twilight series, and you can explore the beaches near La Push. This is a nice place to spend the night. 

Wander through the Hoh Rainforest and stop for a picnic lunch near Ruby Beach on the following day before making the drive back to Seattle. 

• See mountains and ocean at the same time at Hurricane Ridge
• Explore the lush Hoh Rainforest
• Imagine fairies are real on a walk around stunning Sol Duc Falls
• Camp on a beach in the Olympic Peninsula

7. California National Parks

One of the most picturesque drives in California through some of the most famous National Parks in the United States.

• Route: Yosemite to Kings Canyon & Sequoia National Park
• At a glance: Yosemite – Kings Canyon – Sequoia
• Distance: 186 miles
• Duration: 5-8 days 
• When to go: April- October; Spring and Fall are the best time of year to travel to the National Parks, since the weather will not be too hot or too cold, and the crowds should be fewer than in the Summer.

​​Yosemite is one of the busiest national parks in the country. For this reason, you might want to book your spot in advance, if you plan to hike the famous Half Dome. Otherwise you can enjoy the hikes around like Vernal Falls or Taft Point and view Half Dome from a distance. 

Be sure to be on the lookout for bears and other wildlife hanging around as well. For a nice easy stroll, take the trail down to Mirror Lake for a one-of-a-kind view.

Continue your road trip south towards Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks. The two adjacent parks are jointly managed by the National Parks Service and with a single entrance fee. 

Spend a day exploring Kings Canyon and then make your way to Sequoia National Park. Its in both of these parks where you’ll find yourself among some of the largest redwood trees in the world.

In fact, the General Sherman tree in Sequoia, stands as the largest tree in the world by volume. And don’t forget to drive through the downed Redwood, as it’s one of the last drive thru trees around.

• Enjoy all the waterfalls you find along the route 
• Hike Half Dome, or many of the other hikes around Yosemite
• Drive through the giant Redwood trees in Kings Canyon & Sequoia
• Take a picture in front of the largest tree in the world

Contributed by: Sara from Our Kind of Crazy

8. Lake Tahoe to Eastern Sierra California Road Trip

This beautiful road trip may not cover a lot of distance, but it’s so crammed with epic scenery and things to do that seven days will seem too short! The road travels along the stunning Eastern Sierra, and side trips include the scenic Tioga Pass Road and other short roads leading to points of interest along the route.

• Route: California State Route 395 from South Lake Tahoe to Bishop
• At a glance: South Lake Tahoe – Bridgeport – Lee Vining – Mammoth Lakes – Bishop
• Distance: 175 miles
• Duration: 7 days
• When to go: Hands down, Autumn is the best time of year to do this spectacular road trip through the Eastern Sierra . The next best is late spring, when wildflowers are in bloom. In late spring, summer, and fall, you can enjoy hiking trails all along the route! 

Start this USA road trip in scenic South Lake Tahoe, where you can spend a couple of days enjoying the beauty of the large alpine lake. Make sure to take the short drive to Hope Valley and the nearby mountain passes to see leaf colors in the fall.

Next, take California SR395 South to the Bridgeport area, where you can take the short detour to see the ghost town of Brodie (it’s now a state park). 

Further south, you can make a stop at Conway Summit, the highest point along the route, and Mono Lake, a large saltwater lake famous for its tufa towers and thousands of birds. Arrive at Mammoth Lakes, which will be your base for the next three days.

Spend the next three days exploring the areas north and south of the resort town of Mammoth Lakes. From lakes to waterfalls and mountains to creeks, you will find lots to see here. The town of Mammoth Lakes is a well-known winter sports resort, and offers lots of accommodation and dining options.

Spend the last two days of your trip in Bishop, where again you can explore side roads to scenic lakes and an abundance of color in the fall.

• Try SUP boarding on the crystal clear waters of beautiful Lake Tahoe 
• Explore the ghost town of Brodie, preserved exactly as the occupants left when they fled
• Visit the Devil’s Postpile National Monument in Mammoth Lakes
• Marvel at the tufa towers at Mono Lake: an excellent sunset photography spot!
• Enjoy the stunning beauty of the lakes of the Eastern Sierra all along the route

Contributed by: Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

9. Eastern Oregon Road Trip

This off-the-beaten path adventure offers wide open roads, rustic hot springs, mesmerizing desert and unparalleled stargazing.

• Route: Steens Mountain Scenic Byway in Eastern Oregon
• As an alternative to Boise, you can drive the Steen’s Mountain Scenic Byway from Bend, Oregon. The distance and timing is approximately the same.
• Distance: 600-650 miles
• Duration: 4-5 days
• When to go: Soaring heat in summer and the closure of the Steen’s Mountain Loop in winter, mean Spring and Fall are the best times of year to drive the Steen’s Mountain Scenic Byway.

Drive four hours west from Boise (or four hours east from Bend) and enter one of the most remote areas of the United States. 

Your first stop is at the Alvord Hot Springs, where you can soak in the rustic thermal pools at the edge of a large dried-out lake known as the Playa. For optimal stargazing, head to the middle of the cracked-earth Playa and camp in complete solitude under the milky way.

In the morning, spend a few hours zooming around the Alvord Playa in your 4×4 vehicle and marvel at the vastness of your surroundings. Fill up with gas in the small town of Fields (population 14), before driving up the west side of Steen’s Mountain to the historic town of Frenchglen.

Frenchglen is the gateway to the Steen’s Mountain Loop and the surprisingly lush Malheur Wildlife Refuge. Enjoy one or two days of hiking or bird-watching. Before heading back to Boise or Bend, spend the night soaking under the stars at the Crystal Crane Hot Spring.

• Soak in the Alvord Hot Springs at any hour of the day or night
• Drive your vehicle onto the cracked-earth Playa and chase mirages across the desert.
• Camp out on the Playa and enjoy opportunities for perspective photography
• Drive the Steen’s Mountain Loop and soak in views of glacial valleys
• Hike to Wildhorse Lake
• Admire birdlife at the Malheur Wildlife Refuge
• Take a sunrise soak in the warm lake waters of Crystal Crane Hot Springs

Contributed by: Erika Bisbocci from Erika’s Travels

Western USA Road Trips

The mountains are calling! And the deserts too! Drive through the Rocky Mountains over snowy mile-high passes. Explore the unique rock formations of the deserts that has taken millions of years to create.

This is also where you’ll find some of the nation’s most prized National Parks, and some of the best preserved Native American sites. You can really get out in the wild in the Western States.

• American Southwest National Parks
• Las Vegas to Grand Canyon
• Utah’s National Parks
• Colorado Road Trip
• Idaho Wilderness & Small Towns
• Glacier, Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks

10. American Southwest National Parks

This epic road trip with both popular and off-the-beaten-path stops is one of the finest adventures the wild west can offer.

• Route: American Southwest Road Trip
• At a glance: Nevada – Utah – Arizona
• Distance: about 1,000 miles
• Duration: 1 week 
• When to go: May is a very popular month, and it was when I did the trip, though the locals said fall is the best time of the year. 

This American Southwest Road Trip begins in Los Angeles, California. Take your car or campervan to Nevada, and make a stop at the Seven Magic Mountains, followed by a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon (the best way to see it if you are short on time!), and be sure to make a stop at the Valley of Fire State Park.

Recommended sights at the Valley of Fire include Seven Sisters, Elephant Rock, Beehives, and Fire Wave Trail, some of the best hikes near Las Vegas . 

Next, move on to Utah and get ready for the gorgeous views at Zion National Park , Bryce Canyon National Park , Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, and more.

Finally, make your way to Arizona, which is famous for some more incredible canyons, like the Grand Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, and The Wave.

• Helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon
• Coyote Gulch trail in one day via the sneaker route, which involve using a rope to climb down a 250-foot vertical rock and navigating by GPS
• Sunset at Dead Horse Point State Park
• The gorgeous rock formations at Valley of the Gods

Contributed by: Kristin Addis from Be My Travel Muse 

11. Utah’s National Parks

If Utah is on your bucket list, you should bookmark this road trip route. It takes you through the state’s 5 National Parks plus some other hidden gems and cool towns—basically all the best places to visit in Utah .  

• Route: Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks    
• At a glance: Moab (Arches & Canyonlands National Parks) – Capitol Reef National Park – Grand Staircase Escalante – Bryce Canyon National Park – Zion National Park – St. George
• Distance: 550 Miles
• When to go: March – May and September – November; avoid the summer months as it is very crowded and hot at this time of year. Spring and fall bring much more comfortable temperatures and fewer people.

Begin by exploring the town of Moab for a day or two. If you like mountain biking, this is the place to get out on two wheels! 

Make stops at both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park , as they offer very different experiences. You can also stop at Dead Horse Point State Park if you have the time.

On your way westward, make a stop at the House on Fire, ancient ruins located near a river bend of Mule Canyon. And like the name implies, they look just like a house on fire. When we visited there were only a handful of other people, and it was a super interesting place many travelers miss. 

Capitol Reef is the next park on the route, and it is the least visited of Utah’s National Parks, but certainly worth the stop. 

Spend the night near Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, and if it’s open, Kiva Koffeehouse makes a perfect place for food, coffee and views. 

Now you’re almost to Bryce Canyon National Park which is your next stop before heading to your final park: the famous Zion. St. George is a cute town to spend the final days of your trip, or to relax before continuing on.

Depending on your time frame and flights, you can either:

• end your trip in St. George
• continue onto Las Vegas (lots of cheap flights leave from here)
• extend your trip to include stops at Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, and Monument Valley before circling back up to Moab 
• Sunrise at Mesa Arch in Canyonlands National Park
• Photographing House on Fire Ruins
• Picking apricots from the orchards in Capitol Reef National Park
• Coffee with a view at Kiva Koffeehouse near Escalante
• Peek a Boo Loop hike at Bryce Canyon National Park
• Angel’s Landing Hike at Zion National Park
• Stargazing on clear nights in the desert

12. Las Vegas to Grand Canyon

This epic road trip brings you from the craziest city to 3 amazing canyons, a beautiful forest and back to Las Vegas, all along the famous Route 66.

• Route: Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon and Grand Canyon
• At a glance: Las Vegas – Antelope Canyon – Horseshoe Bend – Coconino National Forest – Flagstaff – Grand Canyon – Las Vegas
• Distance: 800 miles
• Duration: 1 week
• When to go:  All year long, but remember July – August will be quite hot.

Begin your journey in Las Vegas and spend the day driving through Utah and Arizona to the Antelope Canyons. Explore both the Upper and Lower Canyon, each a wonderland for photographers as lights, sand and shadows play beautifully together.

Spend a night in Page and also visit Horseshoe Bend the next day. The Colorado River writing poems into the landscape should not be missed.

Next, head south towards Flagstaff. You will pass the Coconino National Forest. Be sure to stop and take a left into the forest. The flower fields are breathtaking and there is also an interesting crater to visit.

Once in Flagstaff, enjoy the rustic wild west atmosphere (and if you have more time in Arizona try checking out Tucson ). 

The next day make your way towards the Grand Canyon. Drive back up the road to Cameron and take a left there to make the most of your time in the park. Several Native shops will offer nice handicrafts as a souvenir.

To end the journey, find your way towards the setting sun again, West, and take a little detour from the main new interstate to end up on the famous Route 66.

• Gamble but don’t lose all your money in Las Vegas
• Explore and take a photographers tour in the Antelope Canyons
• Hike around Horseshoe Bend
• Just breath and relax in the Coconino National Forest
• Feel like a cowboy in Flagstaff
• Finally visit the most majestic canyon of them all: Grand Canyon. Several hikes are available in the area
• Head back to Las Vegas via Route 66 and crank up the radio

Contributed by: Theo from Tripcrafting

13. Colorado Road Trip

Take in the snow-capped mountains, breathtaking landscapes, and soak in natural hot springs on this epic Colorado road trip. 

• Route: Colorado Road Trip: Cities and Nature
• At a glance: Denver – Boulder – Glenwood Springs – Grand Junction – Ouray – Mesa Verde National Park – Buena Vista – Colorado Springs – Denver
• Distance: 900 miles
• Duration: 1-2 weeks
• When to go: June – August; Spring is nice too, but a summer Colorado road trip does allow you to see more and enjoy the outdoors that makes Colorado so awesome.

Kick start your Colorado road trip with 2-3 days in the ‘Mile High City’ of Denver exploring its vibrant arts scene. Stop two is a day trip to Boulder, stroll along Pearl Street, the pedestrian walkway downtown, or head to the foothills to hike any of the 45,000 acres of designated trails.

From there, head to Glenwood Springs, but make a stop on the way to hike to Hanging Lake to take in the stunning turquoise lake suspended on the edge of Glenwood Canyon.

After a few days chilling in the laid back vibe of Glenwood Springs, pick up the pace with 1-2 days in Grand Junction. The area has a number of sightseeing hotspots such as the vineyards of Palisade and the Colorado National Monument.

Continue south to the charming town of Ouray before heading onto Mesa Verde National Park which you can easily explore in 1 day.

Your next stop is Buena Vista, a must for all adventure lovers. Get ready for stunning scenery as you head to the penultimate stop on your itinerary, at Colorado Springs. 

There you can marvel at the red sandstone formations in the Garden of the Gods or spend the day at the North Cheyenne Canon Park before heading back to Denver to complete your epic Colorado road trip.

• A scenic drive to Lookout Mountain for spectacular views of Denver
• Explore the hiking and riding trails around Boulder, especially the Hanging Lake Trailhead
• Whitewater rafting along the Colorado River.
• Have a picnic after hiking the nature trails at the beautiful Rifle Falls State Park
• Take in the grandness of the Colorado National Monument, its spectacular canyons, red rocks, and sandstone towers.
• Explore Pike’s Peak by Cog Train to view the beautiful vistas of Colorado Springs from above

Contributed by: Oksana & Max from Drink Tea & Travel

14. Idaho Wilderness & Small Towns

We’ve said time and time again that Idaho is one of the most underrated states in the US, and we’re going to preach its epic-ness once again. With incredible hot springs , the rugged Sawtooth Mountain Wilderness, and charming towns, a road trip through Idaho is perfect if you want to have epic adventures without the crowds of many other Western states.

• Route: Best of Idaho Road Trip
• At a glance: Boise – Twin Falls – Ketchum – Stanley – Salmon
• Distance: 915 miles
• When to go: June – September, outside of these months, you will likely find some roads closed due to snow, so it’s best to travel during the summertime. Compared to other states in Western USA, you won’t find nearly as many crowds even during the peak summer season.

Begin your journey in Boise and spend a day exploring Idaho’s largest city by bicycle. Your next stop is the town of Twin Falls where you can watch BASE jumpers and make the detour to the nearby sand dunes.

Next, head up towards the Sawtooth Wilderness, where you can stop off for hikes along the way. Ketchum is a small town with lots of charm and outdoor activities all year long.

Stanley is not far from here, and this tiny town of 63 people looks like it’s straight out of a Western movie set. Enjoy the scenery and do a little hiking if you’re keen. 

From here, make a stop at the stunning Goldbug Hot Springs before ending your trip in the Western-themed town of Salmon.

• Explore Boise by bicycle and stop at a few of the (many!) breweries along the way
• Watch BASE jumpers at the bridge in Twin Falls
• See Ernest Hemingway’s grave in Ketchum, and enjoy the many cute shops and cafes in town 
• Go for a hike (or two!) in the Sawtooth Mountains Wilderness Area. Alice’s Lake is a good one!
• See the cute little town of Stanley, and be sure to grab a bite to eat at the Stanley Bakery. You can’t miss it! Tip: The cinnamon rolls are to die for!
• Soak in Goldbug Hot Springs — likely the most scenic hot springs you’ll ever see! If you have a tent, you can spend the night here beneath the stars!

Recommended by Katie & Ben from Two Wandering Soles

15. Glacier, Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks

Take an incredible road trip through some of the most epic scenery in the northwestern United States. This road trip has you stopping in Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks as you make your way through Montana and Wyoming. 

• Route: Glacier Yellowstone and Grand Tetons National Parks
• At a glance: Glacier – Yellowstone – Grand Teton
• Distance: 450 miles
• Duration: 1 week or longer depending on the time you want to spend in each park
• When to go: April to September

This route brings you through three of the best National Parks in the U.S. beginning in Montana, and heading south into Wyoming. Give yourself a minimum of 2 full days to explore each of these famous National Parks and allow an extra day in between each for driving time. 

Start your road trip at Glacier National Park in Montana where the highlights include driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road, wildlife spotting and plenty of incredible hiking. If you’re up for an overnight backpacking adventure, hike the Highline Trail to get off the beaten tourist path and see some of the best views in the park.  

From Glacier you can reach the west entrance of Yellowstone in just 6 hours and 30 minutes. 

Yellowstone National Park is the oldest national park in the U.S. and probably one of the most well-known, next to the Grand Canyon. The park is home to some of the most unique ecosystems in the world.

Don’t miss the drive down Yellowstone’s scenic loop road where you’ll pass by geysers, encounter wildlife, and witness geologic sites like the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. 

Finally, make your way south for just about 30 miles to reach Grand Tetons National Park and your third stop on this incredible USA road trip. 

Famous for the snow-capped jagged peaks of the Tetons Mountain Range, excellent chances for spotting wildlife, alpine lakes in brilliant shades of blue, and plenty of opportunities for adventure, Grand Teton National Park isn’t overrated in the slightest. 

Be sure to check out some of the best Grand Teton hikes while you’re there to really experience the beauty of this place. 

• Get the best views of Glacier National Park while driving the Going-the-Sun-Road
• Spot a moose or some buffalo in the wild
• Take a chilly dip in a glacial lake
• Drive Yellowstone’s Scenic Loop Road, circumnavigating the entire park
• Photograph the rainbow colors of Grand Prismatic Spring
• Watch Old Faithful erupt on time
• Hit the trails in Grand Teton National Park

Hawaii & Alaska Road Trips

Get out of the continental USA for a road trip of your dreams!

In Hawaii, your road trip will have shorter distances, but with stops for fresh poke and shave ice plus epic sunset views, this small state packs in a ton of adventure!

And up in Alaska you’ll drive some of the most remote roads in the USA. This is the perfect state for a road trip through epic wilderness without the crowds.

• The Dalton Highway
• Denali to Kenai
• Hawaii’s Big Island Road Trip
• Road to Hana, Maui

16. The Dalton Highway

Take a drive into the Arctic wilderness as you follow the famed Ice Road from Fairbanks to the Deadhorse, Alaska.

• Route: The Dalton Highway – The Ice Road
• At a glance: Fairbanks – Yukon River – Arctic Circle – Coldfoot – Deadhorse
• Distance: 828 miles
• Duration: 4 Days 
• When to go: June to August – The summer provides the most daylight and the conditions are most favorable for driving the road. 

Before heading up the Dalton Highway, one of Alaska’s most remote roads, you need to be prepared. The Dalton is a remote grave 2-lane highway. The primary use of this road is to haul oil drilling supplies from Fairbanks to the oilfields of the Northern Slope of Alaska . The speed limit is 50 m.p.h.

The weather here is unpredictable, so you need to be ready for snow at any time. There are four gas stations on the road and NO CELL SERVICE. If this hasn’t scared you off yet, get ready for an adventure…

Your trip up the Dalton Highway starts in Fairbanks, Alaska. First learn about Alaska’s gold mining history at Gold Dredge 8 and view the Alaskan Pipeline exhibit. 

Upon departing Fairbanks, follow the Elliot Highway until Livengood. From here you will be on the haul road. 

Your first big stop will be at the famed Yukon River. The river bank has thick mud that really likes to eat shoes. Depending on the salmon run, you may see locals harvesting salmon. Across the road from the camp is a small overlook with great views of the bridge.

Up next is Milepost 115 and the Arctic Circle. Be sure to take a picture with the sign. There is a campground and restrooms here. You will pass several scenic lakes and stops as you reach Coldfoot Camp and the halfway point of the Dalton. 

Next, get ready to cross the Brooks Mountain range through Atigun Pass. This is the highest point on the road and the most dangerous spot. 

The landscape will start to open up and you will start being able to see for miles. Keep an eye out for Musk Ox. There are several small herds on the way to Deadhorse. 

Once at Deadhorse, you are at the end of the road. You will need to arrange a tour if you would like to get to the shore of the Arctic Ocean. 

From here, turn around and head back the way you came.

• Gold Dredge 8 and the Trans-Alaskan Pipeline to learn about the mining and drilling history of Alaska
• Walk down to the edge of the Yukon River and watch the water flow
• Check out the unique rock formations at Finger Mountain
• Get your photograph taken at the Arctic Circle
• Have lunch at Coldfood Café which is seen on Ice Road Truckers
• Tour Weisman and learn what life above the Arctic Circle is life
• Take a tour to Prudhoe Bay and learn about the oilfield and see the Arctic Ocean

Contributed by: Jennifer Melroy from National Park Obsessed

17. Denali to Kenai

This scenic road trip itinerary takes you through some of the most stunning landscape of Alaska, from the snow-covered peaks of Denali National Park to the glaciers and fjords of Kenai.

• Route: 7 Days in Alaska: Denali to Kenai
• At a glance: Anchorage – Denali – Anchorage – Seward – Kenai
• Distance: Around 800 miles
• Duration: 7 Days
• When to go: Mid-May to mid-September is the best time to visit Alaska, with July and August as the “warmest” months (and the busiest) when temperatures reach 60°F to 80°F. 

Your road trip starts with a drive 4 hours north from Anchorage to Denali National Park where you can admire the majestic Denali (formerly Mount McKinley), the highest mountain peak in North America.

At visit the park offers a chance to spot grizzlies, moose and other wildlife. Other opportunities for epic adventures include hiking, white water rafting, off-roading, zipline tours, and aerial tours of Denali.

Head back to Anchorage and learn about Alaska Native traditions at the Anchorage Native Heritage Center . 

Finally, drive straight south past Anchorage for 2.5 hours to the Kenai Peninsula for a chance to visit Kenai Fjords National Park. Don’t miss a hike to the Exit Glacier, and take a cruise through the Kenai Fjords.

Return to Anchorage when you’re ready for your road trip to come to an end. 

• Join a ranger-guided tour at the Denali National Park and learn about the fantastic wildlife
• Go on a flightseeing tour to admire Denali from up close
• Take a heli-hiking tour to explore the Alaskan backcountry
• Visit the Anchorage Native Heritage Center
• Try salmon jerky or jams made of local berries like salmonberries, lingonberries, or cloudberries
• Catch dinner by salmon fishing on the Kenai Peninsula
• Hike on the Glacier Overlook Trail of Exit Glacier
• Board a cruise to see whales, seals, and sea lions on Resurrection Bay

Contributed by: Patricia from Ze Wandering Frogs

18. Hawaii’s Big Island Road Trip

This road trip takes you through every single landscape you can imagine: From the rough volcanic rocks at Hawai’i Volcano National Park to the stunning beaches of Captain Cook and right up to a stargazing oasis at the volcano Mauna Kea.

• Route: Big Island & Volcano National Park
• At a glance: Hilo – Hawai’I Volcanoes National Park – Captain Cook – Kona – Mauna Kea
• Distance: 187 miles
• Duration: 2 Days
• When to go: All year around: Big Island has a climate that works from January till December. 

Start in the cute little village of Hilo, where you can stock up on your food supplies before you head right into the Hawai’i Volcano National Park. 

The park is easy to drive through and it’s up to you how long you want to stay here. You could definitely easily spend an entire week here, hiking and exploring, but if you only have a couple of days on Big Island you can squeeze the highlights into half a day. 

Once the day ends, you will have reached Kona, where you can chill at the beach the next day. Don’t forget to get ready for sunset at the most epic spot ever: Mauna Kea. The volcano not only has the perfect sunset setting, but also a free stargazing event that takes place several days a week. Do check their website for the most accurate information. 

• Have a burger at the Hilo Burger Joint
• Attend the stargazing event at Mauna Kea
• Go for a helicopter flight above Big Island’s volcanoes and opt-in for the open door flight 
• Make sure to go on at least a short hike at Hawai’i Volcano National Park
• Look out for turtles at the beaches around Kona

Contributed by: Anne Steinbach & Clemens Sehi from Travellers Archive

19. Road to Hana, Maui

This tropical road trip through winds around the east side of Maui, Hawaii, taking you through quaint surf towns and showing off the gorgeous coastline with ample hiking opportunities.

• Route: The Road to Hana, Maui
• At a glance: Paia – Haiku – Hana – Kaupo  
• Distance: 64.4 miles
• Duration: 1 day travel time
• When to go: It’s Hawaii so the weather is generally perfect year round. During the summer months, it is much busier than other times of the year. 

Start your drive in Paia, a cute surfer town on Maui’s north shore. Get breakfast at Charley’s to start the day. They have monster pancakes and some of the cajun Ono eggs benedict on the island. 

If you have time, do some shopping. Paia has lots of funky boutiques with surf gear and clothing. Don’t forget to grab some snacks from Mana Foods before you head out.  

Next, take a break at Twin Falls just up the road from Paia. They have some really nice and easy hiking trails and waterfalls. With fresh coconut water, smoothies, and homemade banana bread, the snack stand there is also quite popular. 

Waianapanapa State Park is another great stopping point along the way and not far from Hana. This 122-acre state park is known for its beautiful black sand beach but don’t miss the lava tubes or freshwater caves. 

Once in Hana, relax for a bit. Go to the spa at Travaasa Hana , check out the Hana Beach Park or enjoy shopping at the local art galleries.

The drive is long and I’d highly recommend spending the night in Hana before making your way back. There is one major hotel, Travaasa Hana, vacation rentals, and places to camp overnight.

• An easy but beautiful waterfall hike at Twin Falls 
• Take your time and pull over at overlooks to take in the incredible views
• Stop at Nahiku Marketplace (Mile Marker 29) if you get hungry. There are lots of different food trucks serving everything from Thai food to shave ice.  
• Kīpahulu District of Haleakala National Park is just 12 miles past Hana and a must visit. Hike the Pīpīwai Trail (4 miles) to see gorgeous waterfalls, a bamboo forest, and a giant banyan tree
• The White Pocket, which is an awesome alternative to The Wave

Contributed by: Emily Hines from Em’s on the Road

Midwest USA Roadtrips

Don’t skip over the Midwest, you’ll be surprised at what you’ll find. 

From the shores of the Great Lakes to the historic Route 66, when road tripping through the Midwest you’ll meet some of the nicest people in the US. 

Summer and autumn are the best times to take a trip, but they are also the most popular.

• Route 66 Road Trip
• North Shore Lake Superior, Minnesota
• Amish Country Byway, Ohio

20. Route 66 Road Trip

One of the world’s most famous driving routes, this USA road trip takes you through small town America and the former Wild West.

• Route: Route 66 from Chicago to Los Angeles
• At a glance: Chicago – St. Louis – Carthage – Clinton – Tucumcari – Gallup – Seligman – San Bernardino – Los Angeles
• Distance: 2400 miles
• Duration: 8 days
• When to go: Spring and Fall – the route will be less busy and not so hot, but pleasant for sightseeing and driving

Route 66 starts in Chicago, and you’ll want to get going early as you have a long way to drive in a week. Your first day has you driving through Illinois, with highlights including the Rabbit Ranch in Staunton and the Cozy Dogs in Springfield.

Stay overnight in St. Louis where you’ll want to at least visit the arch, before heading on to the world famous Meramec Caverns. We’d also recommend a stop at the Mule Trading Post and Route 66 Car Museum. Spend your second night in Carthage, MO.

On day 3, follow the Route from Carthage with a stop in Galena, Kansas, to see the tow truck that inspired Mater in the movie “Cars”. Continue on into Oklahoma to see one of our favorite stops, the Blue Whale, then overnight in Clinton.

From Clinton, you’ll drive across a sliver of Texas and into New Mexico. You can spend the night at Tucumcari, home to some of the best preserved Route 66 motels. 

On day 5, be sure to stop in Albuquerque where Route 66 crosses itself. We also recommend a stop at the Continental Divide, before overnighting in Gallup.

Day 6 has you crossing through Arizona, with stops at Petrified Forest National Park, the “Here it is!” sign and the town of Flagstaff. Spend the night in Seligman.

The following day you’ll enter your final state: California. Make sure to stop in the town of Oatman for a Wild West show before spending the night in San Bernardino.

On your final day, you’ll be arriving at the end of the road in Los Angeles. Well done! If you want a more detailed version of this route, check out our complete 8 day Route 66 itinerary .

• See The Rabbit Ranch in Staunton, Illinois
• Visit the Blue Whale in Catoosa
• See the “Here it Is!” sign near Holbrook, AZ
• Eat all kinds of incredible food
• Visit one of the many Route 66 museums along the Route

Contributed by: Laurence from Finding The Universe

21. North Shore Lake Superior, Minnesota

Minnesota’s scenic Highway 61 follows the shoreline of the Great Lake from Duluth, Minnesota all the way into Ontario, Canada. Dubbed simply “the North Shore,” this region of Lake Superior is known for scenic trails, historic sites and untouched wilderness.

• Route: North Shore of Lake Superior: Minneapolis to Grand Marais
• At a glance: Minneapolis – Duluth – Two Harbors – Grand Marais
• Distance: 264 miles
• Duration: 3 – 4 days, you can make the drive in 4.5 hours but you’ll want to stay a few days.
• When to go: May – October. Summertime is nice because you’ll have long days, but the fall is the best because it’s the peak season for fall foliage and leaves changing colors.

While there are so many things to do in Minneapolis , head north out of the city and make the quick 2 hour drive up to Duluth, MN, the farest west port city of the Great Lakes.

Duluth is a fun college town with some serious character. Explore the brick downtown or head down to Canal Park to watch the historic Lift Bridge operate, allowing cargo ships to pass underneath. 

Grab a burger and beer at Grandma’s Saloon or Fitger’s Brewhouse for dinner. Then stay the night, or continue up the north shore taking in the coastal view of Lake Superior until the town of Two Harbors. 

Pop into the Northshore Pizza cafe for a bite to eat or visit Castle Danger Brewery (one of our favorite brews in MN).

Be sure to stop at Split Rock Lighthouse and Gooseberry Falls (very easy 0.5 mile hike to the lower falls) on your way up to Grand Marais.

Spend a night or two in Grand Marais. Get a donut at the World’s Best Donut Shop and a slice of pizza from the iconic Sven and Ole’s (get a sticker while you’re there!). For a nicer meal, the seasonally-open Angry Trout is a good choice, and if you want a morning Bloody Mary, you won’t find any better than at the Gunflint Tavern .

• Watch as cargo ships come into Duluth harbor and see the iconic Lift Bridge rise to let them in
• Get smoked fish from a local market along the way
• Stop at Split Rock Lighthouse
• Skip rocks into Lake Superior (the largest freshwater lake in the world!)
• See Gooseberry Falls
• Grab a beer at Castle Danger Brewing near Two Harbors, and Voyager Brewing in Grand Marais
• Take a gondola ride at Lutsen Ski Resort (in the summer or fall months), or go skiing in the winter months
• If you’re not camping, we highly recommend staying at The Hungry Hippie Farm & Hostel !

22. Amish Country Byway, Ohio

This Northeast Ohio road trip travels over rolling hills and past Amish farms. The Amish Country Byway is a designated federal Scenic Byway.  The roads of the Amish Country Byway share the story of the simple life of the Amish and Mennonites and allow visitors to explore this quiet part of Ohio.

• Route: Amish Country Byway
• At a glance: Various routes throughout Holmes County, Ohio make up the Amish Country Byway (Map)
• Distance: 160 miles
• Duration: At least 2 days
• When to go: May – November; May and November are considered the shoulder-season and travelers will find smaller crowds and less traffic. Due to the religious nature of this area, most attractions are closed on Sunday.

Begin your journey near Berlin, Ohio at Behalt. This cyclorama, known as the Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center, shares the history of the Amish culture and their journey from Europe to NE Ohio.

Continue north on County Rd 77 to Heini’s Cheese. Weekday visitors will have a chance to see cheese being produced and sample numerous flavors of this local delicacy.

Next, take US 62 North to Ohio 515 South. Stop and taste Trail Bologna, owned by the same family since 1912. Locals send this bologna to friends and family all over the world.

If you’re interested in learning more about the Amish, make sure to stop at Yoder’s Amish Home. Tours include a typical Amish home, an Amish school, and a horse and buggy ride. This is a great place to apply what was learned at Behalt!

• Looking to sample more cheese? Don’t miss the world-famous baby swiss at Guggisberg Cheese, located near Charm.
• Interested in glass collection? Millersburg Glass was crafted in Millersburg, Ohio for only 3 years, and its carnival glass is known for its brilliant coloring. The Millersburg Glass Museum has a full collection of the glass, plus tells the story of founder, John Fenton. This is one of the few attractions open on Sundays during the high season.
• Historic downtown Millersburg is home to antique shops, small eateries, and a brewery.  
• If visiting during the fall, the Hershberger Farm and Market offers a pumpkin patch.  

Contributed by: Leah Yoder from Yoder Toter Blog

Southern USA Road Trips

Welcome to southern hospitality at its finest. Cruise through lands where the sky is big and so are the BBQ’s! 

If you’re into having a beverage or two, take your pick of distilleries, breweries and moonshine-ries. Travel here in the springtime to enjoy the blooming flowers and avoid the heat of the summer.

• Dallas to San Antonio
• Louisiana to Florida
• Great Smoky Mountains
• Kentucky Bourbon Trail

23. Dallas to San Antonio, Texas Road Trip

This Texas road trip takes you to Enchanted Rock State Park, through the pseudo-German town of Fredericksburg, San Antonio, often called the “Venice” of Texas, and Austin.

• Route: A Texas Road trip
• At a glance: Dallas – Enchanted Rock – Fredericksburg – San Antonio – Austin
• Distance: 415 miles
• When to go: March to June; Spring is the best time for this road trip as the medians along the highways are covered with wildflowers and the Texas state flower bluebonnets are in bloom.  It is a great time for hiking on the Enchanted Rock.

Begin your journey in Dallas. Spend a day exploring the metroplex and enjoying some BBQ. In the evening head out towards Enchanted Rock in the Hill Country, 250 miles Southwest of Dallas. 

Enchanted Rock State Park’s massive pink granite dome has drawn hikers and rock climbers to climb the magical rock formations for years. The following morning is a great time to attempt this hike. 

Next, drive to Fredericksburg which is home to more than 20 wineries, second only to Napa in the United States. Sample some German beer and bratwurst and peruse the many quaint shops.  

Afterwards you’ll want to head up towards San Antonio. 

Just North of the city, stop by the Natural Bridge Caverns, the largest known commercial caverns in the state of Texas.  Within the city limits you have The Riverwalk, Fiesta Texas, the Alamo, San Antonio Zoo, Six Flags and The Pearl. You can spend an entire week here, but plan for at least 2 days.

Austin, the capital of Texas, is an hour and 30 minutes away and there is so much to do here . From shopping on funky South Congress Avenue to stand-up paddle boarding on Lady Bird Lake and seeing live music, not to mention the best tacos in Texas.

Once you’ve had your fill, make your way down to Austin from San Antonio. Be sure to make time on the drive between the cities for a shopping spree at The San Marcos Outlets, which feature some designer stores.

If you have more time, explore the Texas Hill Country which is home to over 45 wineries, vineyards and lavender fields. 

• Taste the best BBQ in Dallas
• Scale the massive pink granite dome in Enchanted Rock State Park
• Sample some German beer and bratwurst in Fredericksburg
• Enjoy the Riverwalk and a boat ride in the canals in San Antonio 
• Designer Outlet shopping in San Marcos
• Explore the Texas State Capitol Complex at the Texas Capitol Visitors Center in Austin

Contributed by: Priya from Outside Suburbia

24. Louisiana to Florida Road Trip

This cultural road trip along the US Gulf Coast brings you through the heart and southern soul of coastal Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi and Florida, some of the lesser explored areas of the United States.

• Route: Gulf Coast Road Trip from Louisiana to Florida
• At a glance: Lafayette, LA – New Orleans, LA – Mobile, AL – Gulf Shores, AL – Tallahassee, FL – Wakulla Springs, FL – Crystal River, FL
• Distance: 685 miles
• Duration: 10-15 days
• When to go: May through October with summer shoulder months of May and September being ideal with less traffic.

The Gulf Coast of the southern United States from Louisiana to central Florida has some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. Not only is there interesting American history, the distinct culture along the Gulf Coast is like nowhere else in the world.

If you love local food, you’ll love the fresh seafood in this region, just one of the reasons a Gulf Coast road trip is always a great idea.  

Start your trip in Lafayette, Louisiana, where you’ll find Louisiana’s original good time town. The Acadiana (Cajun) culture is evident here in everything from the local food to the dance halls where any night of the week you’ll find welcoming crowds who will happily teach you the local zydeco moves! 

Just an hour away in nearby New Orleans is where the party really starts…and lasts for days.

Spend a day tasting the local flavor then drive out into the country and explore the River Road plantations, some of which offer interesting and poignant tours of the Antebellum history of New Orleans. 

Psst! Read this ethical guide to plantation tours to gain a better understanding and find the tours that combat racism through education. 

An hour east of the Big Easy (aka New Orleans) is the gracious southern city of Mobile, Alabama. A trip through here deserves a few days of boat tours, vintage thrift shopping, and eating their famous Alabama shrimp and oysters. 

Afterwards, head for the beach in nearby Gulf Shores, Alabama, just an hour away. Alabama truly has some of the most beautiful beaches along the Gulf Coast, and natural wildlife you can enjoy from a boat or kayak. The white sand beaches here are spectacular. 

From here, head to Florida’s capital city of Tallahassee and explore the Spanish history the state was founded on. Just 20 miles south of Tallahassee is Wakulla Springs, a natural warm crystal spring where you can swim and relax, and even stay a night or two.

Next, head further down the Gulf Coast to the town of Crystal River, where summertime is scallop season. Grab your snorkel and fins and head out on a scalloping tour to gather up your own scallop feast for dinner!

• Lafayette, Louisiana is a foodie’s dream and there’s always a fun festival to attend. A visit to Avery Island and the TABASCO factory is a must. Plus, if you haven’t tried a drive-thru daiquiri, here’s your chance!
• New Orleans is a must-see along this trip, whether you have a day or more. Spend the day in the French Quarter, grab some beignets and pralines and stroll to your heart’s content.
• Tallahassee, Florida is a hip University town with great farm-to-table restaurants, awesome vintage stores, and a thriving art scene. Don’t miss the fun and funky Railroad Square Art Park!
• Wakulla Springs, Florida offers a great chance to cool off from the heat in one of Florida’s most beautiful natural crystal springs.
• Crystal River, Florida is home to the Florida manatee, but summertime is scallop season and a must-eat when you’re in town!

Contributed by: Lori Sorrentino from Travlinmad

25. Great Smoky Mountains Road Trip

This epic road trip through the Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains takes you through one of the most gorgeous national parks and best roads in the country. 

• Route: Great Smoky Mountains and Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip
• At a glance: Gatlinburg – Cataloochee Valley – Asheville – Mount Mitchell – Linville Falls
• Distance: 130 miles
• When to go: Spring for Wildlife; Fall for Foliage

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park spans between Tennessee and North Carolina and has always been one of my favorite places in the world. The perfect one-week road trip starts in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, traveling to Asheville, North Carolina through the Smoky Mountains before hopping on the Blue Ridge Parkway and heading North to Linville Falls.

Gatlinburg is a great starting point for this road trip because it has a little something for everybody: moonshine distilleries, restaurants, themed attractions, beautiful wildlife, and scenery. I would spend two days here.

For the first day, check out the town of Gatlinburg, the trails near town including the ghost town of Elkmont, Roaring Fork Motor Trail and more. 

On the second day, I would spend exploring Cades Cove. Cades Cove is an 11-mile paved loop where you can drive or bike the loop while making stops along the way and exploring the trails. Here is your best chance of seeing black bears!

There are so many beautiful spots between Gatlinburg and Asheville. See the elk in Cataloochee Valley, visit Soco Falls (right off the road), and several other gorgeous locations. Next stop is Asheville – one of the best cities in the South in my opinion. Don’t miss checking out local breweries, touring Biltmore Estate, the Battery Park Book Exchange and Champagne Bar.

On the way to Linville Falls, North Carolina, you’ll pretty much be on the Blue Ridge Parkway the entire way and you’ll find yourself stopping often for the views. A few of my favorite spots included Mount Mitchell and Little Switzerland. 

Once in Linville Falls, the Falls, Gorge, and Caverns are all absolutely breathtaking and worth checking out. Using Linville Falls as a base, take your second day here to explore Grandfather Mountain, Boone, and Blowing Rock.

• See black bears in Cades Cove 
• Visit the abandoned ghost town of Elkmont
• See elk in Cataloochee Valley
• Visit a unique bookstore in Asheville that also doubles as a champagne bar
• Visit Little Switzerland to fill your Bavarian-themed town quota
• Hike the Craggy Gardens Overlook at sunrise but be prepared to be brought to tears 

Contributed by: Ashley Hubbard from Wild Hearted

26. Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Who doesn’t love a nice glass of bourbon? On the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, you tour 16 different distilleries, try multiple bourbons (and other treats) at each, and take in tons of bottled up history throughout the gorgeous Bluegrass state. 

• Route: The Kentucky Bourbon Trail 
• At a glance: Lexington – Frankfort – Louisville – Owensboro (with some smaller towns in between) 
• Distance: 250ish miles (depending on order of distilleries)
• When to go: Late spring or early fall, as many of the distilleries shut down during the hot summer months. 

While there is no official route for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, I recommend picking either Lexington or Louisville as a “home base” for the experience, as all of the distilleries are within a few hours drive of these cities (some are mere minutes!). 

Each day, pick 4-5 distilleries to visit, starting when they open in the morning and touring until they close.

I usually try to do the distilleries that are closest together on the same days (less driving and easier to get from one place to another). If you’re a serious drinker, there are some bus tours that will chauffeur you throughout the Trail so you don’t have to worry about driving. 

You’re never given more than about 2 ounces of alcohol at each distillery, but you may want a designated driver just in case.

On the drive between distilleries, you’ll see the rolling hills of Kentucky, some of our famous horse farms, and, of course, brick houses holding millions of gallons of the delicious spirit. 

• Dip your very own bottle of Maker’s Mark at Maker’s Mark Distillery
• Drink bourbon barrel aged beer at Town Branch Distillery in Lexington 
• Pose with a giant Louisville Slugger near Angels Envy in Louisville 
• Experience what it was like to access a Prohibition Era speakeasy at the Evan Williams Experience
• Live like Matthew McConaughey at Wild Turkey Distillery
• Visit the stone warehouses at Woodford Reserve 

Contributed by: KB Gamblin from Her Life in Ruins

Eastern USA Road Trips

Cute oceanside towns and major metropolises alike dot the East Coast. This is where you’ll find some of the country’s oldest buildings and most historic neighborhoods. 

Eat all the seafood you can handle, and soak up the quaint fishing village vibes.

And you won’t have to drive too far from any major city to get into the beautiful countryside. Visiting this region in the autumn months will reward you with stunning fall foliage.

• Southern Florida Road Trip
• Miami to Savannah
• Golden Isles of Georgia
• New York State Road Trip
• New England Coast

27. Southern Florida Road Trip

This road trip will take you all over South Florida, from cities to small towns and swamps to beaches.  It’s the best of Florida with plenty of time off the beaten path.

• Route: South Florida National Parks and Outdoors
• At a glance: Miami – Everglades City – Homestead – Key Largo – Key West – Miami
• Distance: 465(ish) miles
• Duration: 10 days
• When to go: January to mid-March; the weather is coolest then, but still hot, and the bugs are minimal, but still around.

Flying in and out Miami will be easiest for this South Florida road trip . Start here before heading over to Everglades City on Alligator Alley.  Spend the night camping in Big Cypress National Preserve or in a hotel in Everglades city if you’re not a camper.  Make sure to book far in advance for that.

With Everglades City as your base, visit Fakahatchee Strand State Park, Florida Panther Preserve, 10,000 Islands, and Big Cypress National Preserve. Spend a few days exploring the area before heading back to the east in Homestead.  

From Homestead, visit the main area of Everglades National Park. Look for wildlife on the Anhinga Trail, stop at the boardwalks, and take a boat or kayak tour at the Flamingo area. This is a great base for visiting Biscayne National Park, too.  

Next up is the Keys. Spend a night on Key Largo and take a day to drive down to Key West making stops along the way at beaches and John Pennekamp State Park. Make sure to do some snorkeling. 

And you can’t forget about the food scene in the Keys because it is delicious! The flavors of the Caribbean are added to the freshly caught fish, you really can’t go wrong!

Finally, before heading back to Miami, spend a couple of days in Key West and go to Dry Tortugas National Park for a day.  

• Hike to the Fakahatchee Hilton and admire the gator pond out back
• Explore Big Cypress National Preserve and sleep under the stars (if that’s your thing)
• Look for wildlife on the Anhinga Trail and a boat trip in Everglades National Park
• Take a boat tour to the islands in Biscayne National Park
• Visit the John Pennekamp State Park on your way to Key West
• Take the ferry or seaplane to Dry Tortugas National Park for a day 
• Explore Miami and see the Wynwood Walls

Contributed by: Megan Johnson from Red Around The World

28. Miami to Savannah, Georgia East Coast Road Trip

This beautiful road trip takes you through the East coast of Florida and in to Georgia via some of the region’s most iconic cities, charming small towns and gorgeous islands.

• Route: Miami to Savannah via the big cities, small towns and beautiful islands
• At a glance: Miami – Orlando – New Smyrna Beach – Amelia Island – Jekyll Island – Saint Simons Island – Savannah
• Distance: 600 miles
• When to go: Autumn. Go when the summer crowds have left the sunshine state but the weather is still balmy and you can enjoy the beaches and coastline.

Start your road trip in Miami for some beautiful beaches and stunning art deco buildings. However long you spend here it won’t be long enough but enjoy the buzz of the city and the vibrant experiences on offer.

Head up the coastline to Orlando for some theme park fun or to take in some of the amusements of the area. There’s something here for everyone whether you’re into roller coasters or some of the natural springs you can view from glass-bottomed boats. 

For an extra bit of adventure, head toward the ocean where you will find the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge which is known as one of the best places to go bioluminescent kayaking in Florida . This is a pretty spectacular phenomenon that’s well worth a spot on your itinerary.

From there, it’s only a short hop to New Smyrna Beach on the coastline. Stop off at Kennedy Space Center to get your fix of rockets and space shuttles before small town America beckons. 

New Smyrna Beach will feel a world away from the bright lights of Miami and Orlando. Enjoy the windswept beaches which have turtles nesting on them if you’re there in the right season. It’s also a great location from which to see dolphins in the wild.

Further up the coastline Amelia Island is a beautiful final Floridian stop off with the longest stretch of beach and a lovely old school feel. There’s a simplicity to life here which is refreshing and uplifting.

It’s just around the final edge of Florida and into Georgia for the next island stop off of Jekyll Island. Once the playground of the rich and famous it fell out of favor for a time. Now it’s a lovely retreat and with beaches including the stunning Driftwood Beach it’s a lovely place to cycle around with Spanish Moss-covered trees creating the perfect shade. 

Saint Simons Island has a real feel-good factor with shopping arcades and a wonderful playground that spills out onto the sand if you’re traveling with kids. There’s more going on here and it’s the perfect contrast to Jekyll Island.

Finish off in Savannah where the antebellum houses sit grandly and wide streets and gorgeous public parks call for impromptu picnics. 

• Don’t miss Little Havana, the Cuban district of Miami, known for bright colors and cool vibes
• Silver Springs just outside of Orlando is a great place to get some retro USA vibes going
• Visit Indian River Lagoon to try and spot bottlenose dolphins at New Smyrna Beach
• Stop off in the Georgia State Railroad Museum in Savannah to clamber aboard historic carriages
• Eat great Asian fusion food in Vault, Savannah

Contributed by: Nichola West from Globalmouse Travels

29. Golden Isles of Georgia

This peaceful coastal road trip through Georgia’s Sea Islands brings you to a quaint beach town, 5-star resort, massive state park, and National Seashore.  

• Route: Georgia Sea Islands
• At a glance: St. Simons Island – Sea Island – Jekyll Island – Cumberland Island
• When to go: Late spring or early fall. Avoid summer to save cash and steer clear of crowds. April-May is a beautiful time to visit this area because the spring blooms will be in full force and the brunt of the summer heat won’t have hit yet. Early fall is great too because it is still warm enough to hit the beaches and the bugs won’t be as bad.

Begin your journey in St. Simons Island and spend your time biking on the island-wide bike paths covered by the shade of an incredible live oak canopy. 

Grab award-winning BBQ at Southern Soul before hitting the beach. As one of the first colonial outposts in the United States, the island is the perfect mix of coastal scenery, great local restaurants, cool boutiques, and history. 

If you’re looking for some luxurious R&R head to Sea Island and the fabulous Cloister Resort, the only Forbes Five Diamond Resort in Georgia. Book a room at the hotel, visit their incredible spa and dine like royalty.  

Jekyll Island is the next stop on this road trip and the next island south of St. Simons and Sea Island. Once a winter escape for New England’s elite, Jekyll is now a state park so it is far less developed than St. Simons and Sea Island.

Bike around the island and take a picnic to the famous Driftwood Beach. Tour the historic Jekyll Island Club resort and neighboring historic district before grabbing some Wild Georgia Shrimp at The Wharf on the waterfront.

The last stop on the trip is Cumberland Island, Georgia, one of the nation’s National Seashores. The largest barrier island on Georgia’s coast has acres of untouched maritime forests, beaches, and marshes. 

Camp beneath the live oak canopy or stay at the exquisite all-inclusive Greyfield Inn, once home to the Carnegie family. 

• Sample some of Georgia’s best BBQ at Southern Soul in St. Simons Island, Georgia  
• Climb the 129 stairs of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse for an incredible view 
• Dine like royalty with a multi-course tasting menu in the Forbes Five Star Georgian Room at Sea Island’s Cloister Resort 
• See the eerie Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island
• Visit the church where JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy married on Cumberland Island, Georgia 
• Explore the Carnegie’s Dungeness Mansion ruins on Cumberland Island   

30. New York State Road Trip

This road trip through the Lower and Mid-Hudson Valley of New York is not only beautiful but showcases the history of the Hudson Valley through architecture, tradition and art. It inspires and educates through the most breathtaking area in the North East of the United States.

• Route: Lower to Mid-Hudson Valley, NY from Tarrytown to Highland
• At a glance: Tarrytown – Tuxedo – New Windsor – Newburgh – Highland
• Distance: 73.6 miles
• Duration: 3-4 days
• When to go: September (weekends); Late summer/Early Autumn is the best time for this road trip, as that is when the Annual NY Renaissance Fair takes place and the weather is more agreeable for outdoor exploration.

Begin your journey at Lyndhurst Mansion in Tarrytown, NY and spend a few hours taking a tour of the mansion and exploring the grounds. Visit the Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse and take in the views of the Majestic Hudson River. Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow are wonderful places to have dinner.

Next, head North over the ‘Governor Mario Cuomo Bridge’ or the “New Tappan Zee Bridge” towards Rockland County, where you can stop off to shop at the famous Palisades Mall or Spend the Day at the NY Renaissance Faire in Tuxedo, NY.

The next stop is the Storm King Art Center in New Windsor, NY. This massive open-air Museum and Sculpture Park is a must see when in the area. After exploring the grounds of Storm King, a quick drive to Newburgh is in order for a view of the Hudson River from Washington’s Headquarters.

Lastly, for those interested in a one-of-a-kind experience, a visit to the Walkway Over the Hudson State Park is in order. This is the World’s Longest Pedestrian Bridge.

• Take a tour of Lyndhurst Mansion in Tarrytown, NY
• Eat and enjoy a day full of Entertainment at the NY Renaissance Faire in Tuxedo, NY
• Explore enormous sculptures at Storm King Art Center in New Windsor, NY.
• Learn all about the area’s history at the Washington’s Headquarters Historic Site in Newburgh, NY
• Walk over the Hudson River at the Walkway Over the Hudson State Park.

Contributed by: Jackie Ramirez from Hudson Valley Exposed

Psst! If you’re going to be passing through the Big Apple on your way to upstate New York, be sure to read our article with the best things to do in NYC .

31. New England Coast Road Trip

Thanks to its scenic beauty and rich history, New England is the perfect road trip destination – as long as you wait until after the snow melts. 

Driving straight from Boston to Bar Harbor, Maine, the town adjacent to Acadia National Park, takes about 6 hours. However, to do this trip right, you’ll probably want to take at least a week (and eat a lot of lobster along the way!).

• Route: Scenic New England – from Boston, Massachusetts to Acadia National Park in Maine
• At a glance: Boston – Salem – Portsmouth – Bar Harbor (You’ll follow Route 1 north for most of the trip.)
• Distance: 269 miles
• Duration: 7-10 days
• When to go: April to October; this is a great route to see some fall foliage

Once the snow and ice melt, I love nothing more than getting out of Boston for a few days and exploring New England’s beautiful beaches and charming towns. Driving straight from Boston to Bar Harbor, Maine (my favorite route) usually takes about 6 hours.

First up along the coast is the North Shore of Massachusetts, which is jam-packed with things to do. 

Historic Salem is definitely worth a stop for its kitschy witch-themed attractions, and so is Gloucester for its Fisherman’s Memorial. The streets of both Rockport and Newburyport are lined with galleries, restaurants and shops, and if you’re looking for beaches, Manchester-by-the-Sea and Crane Beach are two of the best.

Passing briefly through New Hampshire, you should spend at least a few hours strolling around Portsmouth. There are lots of great craft breweries in and around the city.

Crossing into Maine, Kennebunkport and Old Orchard Beach are popular vacation destinations in the summer, and if you’re an L.L. Bean fan, then you can’t miss the flagship store in Freeport. 

Portland has the region’s hottest restaurant scene, so you’ll want to plan at least a meal or two there.

Once you arrive in Bar Harbor, you’ll need a few days to relax and see the sights in and around Acadia National Park. If you’re feeling ambitious, head up to Cadillac Mountain and watch the spectacular sunrise!

• Stop by the witch-themed attractions in Salem
• Check out Fisherman’s Memorial in Gloucester
• Enjoy the beach at Crane Beach and Manchester-by-the-Sea
• Stroll around Portsmouth and drink a craft beer or two
• Watch the sunrise at Cadillac Mountain

Contributed by: Brianne Miers from A Traveling Life

A special Thank You to Moon Travel Guides for sponsoring this article.

You may also like…

• How to Plan an Epic USA Road Trip
• Tips for an Eco-Friendly Road Trip
• Money-Saving Tips for a Cheap Road Trip Across the USA
• Ultimate Road Trip Packing List

Are you planning an epic road trip? Save this article on Pinterest for later!

We want to hear from you!

Where has your favorite road trip taken you? Do you have any of these USA road trips planned out soon? Let us know in the comments below!

Comments (33) on “ 31 USA Road Trip Ideas + Tips ”

Love these road trip ideas! Can’t wait to try out the Pacific Coast Highway route. The photography tips are especially helpful. Great post! 🚗📸

I love road trips! I’m so excited to try out some of these ideas!

It’s really important to be ready all the time when doing a road trip and totally agree with all the guide you shared. Thanks for sharing.

Next December we will go out on the road with a group, and that’s why I am doing research. I found your post and just read it. I really learned a lot. Many thanks.

Oh neat! I wonder if I can get my friends to go on the NYS roadtrip with me. I’ve been wanting to do a roadtrip for a whileeee

That would be such a fun trip with friends! I don’t think it’ll take much to convince them to go on a road trip once it’s safe again!

So many of these have been on my bucket list for a couple of years now. I think if our current lock down situation has taught me anything, it’s that I should just plan them and get out there once it’s safe.

Oh we know what you mean! We’ve had to cancel some trips, so I can’t wait until it’s safe to travel again and we can reschedule! SO many places I’m excited to go, and I won’t be taking the freedom to spontaneously plan a trip for granted anymore!

These look so amazing!! I’m a non-driver, but I’ve always wanted to do a USA road trip – I’m not sure if I’d be able to choose between these! Maybe one day… Thanks for sharing!

I know what you mean – Ben does most of the driving! Road trips are one of my favorite ways to travel though because it lets you go at your own pace and allows you to stop in places you otherwise never would. Happy you enjoyed this article!

I would absolutely love to do an Alaska road trip! Those wild landscapes are something I’ve always wanted to see. Was meant to be on a west coast road trip now but sadly it got pushed back. Maybe when I do get round to doing it I’ll combine it with an Alaska road trip! Thanks for sharing, such beautiful suggestions! 🙂

That is one of our dreams too! We were planning to travel to Alaska this summer, but sadly, that’ll probably be put on hold. Just happy to know all these places will still be there when it is safe to travel again!

This is a great list and this is all I needed.during my visit to USA last year we took a road trip from Vegas to Grand canyon n horse shoe bend.looking forward to more

That’s a great plan! You’ll get to see lots of incredible sights, city and nature; plus, they’re all located relatively close together (in USA terms of "close"! haha). Best of luck planning!

What an impressive list! Ive always dreamed about doing a road trip through the states and I’d love to start in the Pacific Northwest! USA has so many beautiful national parks with such diverse scenery so I can’t wait to get home and explore more!

Oh, what a good place you’ve picked to start: our absolute favorite part of the country! I hope you get to plan your road trip soon!

Wow, what a list! I love that you included Wakulla on your Florida list!

Thanks! I lived in Florida for a couple of years, so it was fun hearing others’ favorites and gathering road trips from all around the country!

I’ve never been to Yosemite but I’ve been dying to go! This is such an extensive guide and so helpful!

Thanks! Yosemite is amazing! If you like getting off the beaten path, we’d definitely recommend getting a backcountry permit because it is absolutely incredible. We were there on a weekend in July (busiest possible time!), but in the backcountry, we only saw one other person camping!

I am really keen to do the Pacific Coast drive but also think the drive north to Seattle looks fantastic. Which would you recommend if I only have time for one?

Ohh a tough choice for sure! Highway 1 (in California) is stunning, but it is a bit more crowded, whereas some of the drives around Seattle and north are more rugged and have fewer people.

Temperatures for lounging at the beach are going to be more comfortable in California though (so it depends on what you’re most looking forward to!). Either choice will be a good one 🙂

What an extensive list! I’ve done many of the West Coast ones, but haven’t made it to the Southwest/ much of the East Coast! Pinning this for later!!

Thanks! Yeah, we’d love to got out to the East Coast in time for the fall colors someday!

I’ve done most of these, but you’ve done a great disservice skipping Arkansas. The Pig Trail is not to be missed, especially by motorcycle. Boston and Ozark Mountains are beautiful, especially in the fall.

These are great options! I would love to do a road trip but sadly I can’t drive. I just need to find that right person to do the trip with me to tick it off my bucket list! I’m looking forward to visiting San Francisco too.

I love all the road trip suggestions! I am planning to get a campervan with my boyfriend next year to do USA, and we need all the tips we can find!! Thanks for sharing!!

If you have time, the Boston to Acadia trip should extend down to NYC! There’s a lot of amazing stops in CT to see.

YESSSSSSSSSSSSS I love a good USA roadtrip!!

Great guide!! I’ve been wanting to do another USA road trip! There are sooo many to choose from 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Bucket List Events

• Paris Summer Games
• Masters Week
• Kentucky Derby
• U.S. Open Tennis
• Milan Winter Games
• Running of the Bulls
• Oktoberfest
• Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade
• Presidential Inauguration
• What we offer
• Charity Auctions
• Travel Agent Partnerships
• Global Ambassadors Program
• Call us 512-261-5140
• Request Brochure

One thing that is on everyone’s bucket list is a road trip across the United States. From retirees rolling around in the R.V. to college students on spring break to high school graduates, most everyone dreams of the idea of traveling across the U.S. But where and when is the best place to start? Well, for this three-month long journey, plan to start in April and end in June. This way, you can visit all the warmer states in decent weather and hit all milder states toward the summer months.

First stop: California

There are tons of sites to see in California, which makes it the best place to start for a three-month road trip. Start out in San Francisco and drive over the Golden Gate Bridge and make sure to snap a few photos. It’s a quick start to your long journey and is a must-see when visiting California. Plus, it’s a free stop before the real adventure begins!

Next, head down to Yosemite National Park, which is located in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Yosemite is best known for its giant, ancient sequoias, and for Tunnel View, the iconic vista of towering Bridalveil Falls and the granite cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome. Within the park are restaurants, shops, and the Yosemite Museum and the art gallery of Ansel Adams, which features the black-and-white prints of the area landscapes.

Plan your visit to Yosemite .

After, travel down to Los Angeles and visit all the sights of Hollywood. Walk the Sunset Strip and Hollywood Boulevard, being sure to find your favorite Hollywood stars on the Walk of Fame, and don’t forget to visit the famous Hollywood sign. The Sunset Strip also features a variety of restaurants and shops to indulge in. Then, while you’re in the area, swing over to Disneyland in Anaheim. Factor in an entire day’s worth of time here so you can enjoy all the rides and park attractions that occur during the day and in the evening.

View the park attractions at the Disneyland website .

Another fun event that happens in Indio, California during the month of April is the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. This festival takes place every year at the Empire Polo Club and features music genres such as hip hop, rock, electronic dance, and independent. The site offers camping, boutiques, food and beverage, and other fun activities during your weekend spent at Coachella. Activities include things like the Bad Dancing Competition, dodgeball, and the Coachella Art Studio.

To buy your tickets and find out more information, visit the Coachella website .

Viva Las Vegas

Definitely spend some time in the city that never sleeps. Whether you decide to stay here for a few days or just take in all the sights, Las Vegas, Nevada is worth every penny. The city is absolutely incredible with all the marvelous shows, casinos, and hotels, making it a great destination to experience. When you decide to leave Nevada, go visit the Hoover Dam on your way to Arizona. The dam is a concrete archway in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River and rests right on the border of Nevada and Arizona, making it a quick stop before your next destination.

The Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is an extraordinary sight to see while in Arizona. There are so many things to do here, including camping, biking, hiking, and lodging. While at the park, you can plan tours or visit on your own time, but make sure to see all the sights. There’s Hermit Road, Desert View Drive, the North Rim, Toroweap, Havasupai Indian Reservation, and don’t forget the Skywalk. The park offers a shuttle bus to all areas of the Grand Canyon, which allows you to see every incredible view. Travel out to Hermit’s Rest on the South Rim or venture out on the Skywalk which is located on the Haulapai Reservation at Grand Canyon West. The horseshoe-shaped steel frame with a glass floor that juts out from the canyon rim is the most famous attraction, but visitors should definitely experience the rest of the amazing views of the park.

For park information, visit the Grand Canyon National Park website .

Houston Space Center

After a visit to the Grand Canyon, make your next stop in Houston, Texas to visit the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center. The center features over 400 artifacts, as well as educational exhibits and attractions. The world’s largest collection of moon rocks and lunar samples can be found at the NASA Johnson Space Center, and guests are taken behind the scenes to see what it takes to be an astronaut. You can take tours of the space station, see what the life of an astronaut is like, and see the historic Boeing 747 shuttle carrier aircraft at the Independence Plaza.

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Baton Rouge is the capital of Louisiana and is full of sights to see. It is the second-largest city in the state and is located along the Mississippi River, and the city is absolutely breathtaking. While you’re in the area, there are a few attractions to visit. First on the list is the Old State Capitol building that has a gothic-castle appearance. It is a noteworthy sight both for its historical and architectural significance. There are also the USS Kidd and Veterans Memorial Center, Louisiana State University, where there are 1,600-year-old American Indian mounds, and the Magnolia Mound Plantation.

Planetware offers eight top-rated tourist attractions in Baton Rouge as well as places to stay in the area.

“Thank you, thank you very much!”

Next stop: Tennessee! There is plenty to see in the great state of Tennessee, but you definitely need to add Graceland to your list of road trip must-sees. Graceland is the home of the King of Rock, Elvis Presley. The mansion has been voted the world’s Best Music Attraction by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, and you can even stay at the guest house in Graceland. Tour the home of Elvis Presley and visit the museums and gain some extra knowledge about the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

To see everything you can experience in Graceland, visit the website .

Also, while you’re in Tennessee, drive through Nashville, where the legendary Grand Ole Opry is located, and maybe visit the Country Music Hall of Fame on your way out.

Washington, D.C.

Drive on up to the New England states and visit the capital of the United States. Here you can see the National Mall, the Capitol, and the Lincoln Memorial. Visiting Washington, D.C. is definitely a trip to be made at least once, which makes it a perfect stop on a three-month road trip across the U.S. There are so many places to visit and sights to see while you’re here, so don’t worry if you can’t do everything. But to get you started, here is a list from TripAdvisor to give you a few ideas.

New York, New York

The state of New York also offers countless attractions and events for visitors and locals alike. During your stay definitely make time for a few things: visit the Statue of Liberty, the World Trade Center, and walk through Times Square. These are three easy trips since they are all located in New York City. Plus, Times Square offers tons of shops and restaurants, as well as event venues like Broadway, where you can see the current show that’s playing on stage.

While in New York, you should make the journey to  Niagara Falls, a group of three waterfalls that are on the border of Canada and the United States. The falls are a breathtaking sight, and the park offers places to camp, and you can also find hotels, restaurants, and other things to do while in the area.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is located in Cleveland, Ohio, and is definitely worth the stop. You can stop in and visit the museum as well as view all the special exhibits that the hall of fame has to offer. In addition, the hall of fame also offers some of the most celebrated and award-winning education on music and fine arts. They also keep a large repository of the history of rock and roll in their Library and Archives for everyone’s viewing pleasures.

To see the current exhibits at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, visit their website .

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is another city that offers a wide array of attractions and events to attend. Make sure you at least try to do all the touristy things like take photos of yourself by the Bean, also known as Cloud Gate, and visit the Skydeck, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. The Skydeck offers some of the best views of Chicago, so it should definitely be on your bucket list of road trip attractions. Here is a list of other things to do in Chicago.

Gateway Arch

On your way back across the United States, drive through St. Louis, Missouri to see the Gateway Arch, also known as the St. Louis Arch. It is a 630-foot monument built from stainless steel in the form of an arch, making it the world’s tallest arch.

The Black Hills

Although South Dakota doesn’t sound like one of the most fascinating places in the U.S., the state does offer a few top destination places to hit on your road trip. You can drive through the Black Hills National Forest, which is home to two historic monuments, including Mount Rushmore that displays the heads of four US Presidents (George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, and Theodore Roosevelt), and the Crazy Horse Memorial, which pays tribute to the well-known Native American tribal leader.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone is a large, 3,500-square mile wilderness recreational area that serves as a habitat for multiple species including elk, bison, wolves, bears, and antelope. Although the park is mostly in Wyoming, it also covers some of Montana and Idaho as well. The park resides atop a volcanic hotspot and is home to many gushing glaciers–the most famous being Old Faithful–as well as canyons, rivers, and hot springs.

To plan your visit, go to the national park website .

The Rockies

The Rocky Mountains run through the state of Colorado and are a beautiful sight to see. You can easily drive through the mountains and climb up to the peak. There are shops and restaurants along the way before you enter the mountain range, and be prepared for some ear-popping and altitude changes. In addition to the peak of the mountains, there are some other stops along the way where you can get out of the car and take in the breathtaking views.

Zion National Park

The last stop on this road trip is located in southwest Utah on a nature preserve distinguished by the steep red cliffs of Zion Canyon. There is a scenic drive that cuts through the main section of the canyon, which leads to forest trails that run along the Virgin River. The river flows to the Emerald Pools, home to waterfalls and a hanging garden. For more travel information on Zion National Park, you can visit the website .

• History of the Neuschwanstein Castle
• Nashville's Printers Alley
• Churchill Downs - Racing's Most Famous Venue
• Pamplona Cathedral: The Symbol of a City
• The Chupinazo: The San Fermin's Opening Ceremonies
• Munich's Surfers - The Eisbach on the Isar River

Related Articles

The 8 Best Places to Travel in March

New Years’ Traditions from Around the World to Bring You Luck

7 Famous Festivals in Europe for your Travel Bucket List

Comments leave a comment, leave a reply cancel reply, get pricing updates.

• The Masters Experience
• Oktoberfest, Munich
• Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
• Testimonials
• Travel Quotes
• Group & Corporate Specials
• Travel Insurance
• Sales: 512-261-5140

• Contact form

I'm Just A Girl

Affordable Luxury Travel

3 Months In The USA Budget – How Much To Travel America

This post about how much money we spent in 3 months in the USA contains affiliate links.

Both Matt and I knew that spending 3 months in the USA was never going to be cheap. However, we probably didn’t realise just how expensive our 3-month trip around America would be. I want to preface this post about how much money we spent during our 90 day trip to the USA by saying that this is by no means how much money you have to spend in America, it’s just how much money we spent.

I’m very aware that it seems like a crazy amount of money and to be perfectly candid, when you consider that we spent just over £3,300 between us on a 3-month New Zealand trip (which I thought was crazy expensive at the time!), the amount of money we spent in America is pretty astronomical.

However, it truly was the trip of a lifetime and after spending almost two years “stuck” at home due to Covid when we’re both nomadic travellers, the cost of the trip was entirely worth it and I’d happily do it all over again!

These kinds of monetary posts always seem to do well on my blog and you guys always seem to find them useful, so even if you have absolutely zero intention of spending anywhere near the amount of money we spent on a 3 month trip in the USA, I really hope you find this post useful in some way (even if it is just to encourage you to spend less than us!).

Without further ado, let’s get cracking with the post all about how much money we spent in the USA for 3 months!

Prices in this post are based on the USD-GBP exchange rate as of December 2021-March 2022.

Read more: The Ultimate 1 Month USA Road Trip Itinerary – California To Texas

USA road trip cost – 3 months in the USA: £15,949.03 (£7,974.52 each – £88.61 each per day for 90 days)

I told you it was an astronomical figure!

Almost £16,000 between us on a 3-month trip does seem incredibly excessive and I know for a fact that you could travel around the USA on a much tighter budget.

However, we both went into this trip head-first with every intention of seeing, doing and experiencing as much as possible. Before we left for America, I wasn’t in the best headspace largely due to the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, especially when I lost my grandad to the dreaded virus. So, I knew that I needed radical change and that meant booking a one-way flight to the US (knowing that we did have to leave at some point within 90 days due to the UK-US visa situation).

With this, I also knew that I wanted it to be the most magical and remarkable trip of my life (which it certainly was), so we knew that we didn’t want to hold back on anything and we wanted to ensure that we experienced every single thing we could.

Of course, the cost of the trip accurately reflects our philosophy for this adventure and while I couldn’t believe just how much we’d spent once I sat at home and worked it all out, I’m so happy that we spent every single penny on an experience that quite honestly changed my life.

I also think that an average of £88 (approx $110) a day per person isn’t too bad, especially considering the average person in America spends around $164.55 a day, according to a study carried out by GOBankingRates !

In my post below, I’ve broken down all the costs of every single thing that we spent during our 3 months in the USA, including how much money we spent on accommodation all across America, the amount of money we spent on food (including meals out and groceries), plus activities, transport costs, petrol costs and even a section on our pre-trip travel costs!

Let’s get started!

Pre-trip costs – USA road trip budget

Before we’d even left the UK to travel to America, we’d already spent over £1,000 in pre-travel costs on things such as initial flights to New York, travel insurance for both of us for three months, prescription medication for both of us and as we were travelling when testing was still required to enter the US due to the Coronavirus pandemic, we also had to pay for pre-trip testing.

Total pre-trip travel costs: £1,139.53 for two people.

P.S. Don’t forget to get travel insurance before you travel to the USA (or anywhere else for that matter!). We use SafetyWing and while we’ve (thankfully!) never had to make a claim on our policy, I’m super happy with the service we’ve received from them and they’re one of the most competitively priced travel insurers on the market!

Accommodation costs in America for 3 months

The price of accommodation was by far the biggest expense on our 3 month trip around America and while we knew that it would be pretty expensive, I don’t think either of us realised just how bloody costly it is to travel around the US!

Of course, we tried to stay in the cheapest places possible and while sometimes we managed to get accommodation for as little as £14 each a night in some places, other times we were paying as much as £100 a night!

£100 a night might not seem that expensive if you’re only going on a short trip for a few days, but when you’re travelling for 3 months at a time and the accommodation can be that expensive, your budget is going to absolutely skyrocket!

Our apartment in New York for one month , for example, cost us £2,750.93 which is obviously an awful lot of money, but that was genuinely one of the cheapest places we could find for a monthly rental; most of them were upwards of £3,500 a month!

For the rest of our road trip across America , we tried to stay in budget hotels and motels where possible in chains such as Days Inn, Comfort Inn, Motel 6 (which I would not recommend!), La Quinta, Super 8 and more.

The initial price of these hotels and motels on Booking.com was relatively cheap, with some of them as little as £30-£40 a night. However, as you may be aware with travelling in America, there are always lots of additional taxes and fees to pay on accommodation (as well as on many other things in the US), so the prices seemed to shoot up once we actually confirmed the booking.

During our 3 months in the USA, we stayed in a total of 27 paid-for accommodations (including the apartment we had for one month in NYC ), plus we spent one week of our trip at my aunty and uncle’s house in Virginia.

The total cost of accommodation to travel around America for 3 months: £6,357.84 for two people.

Food – meals and drinks at bars and restaurants

Food and drink in America was another pretty hefty cost for us, especially when it came to eating and drinking in bars and restaurants.

During the first month of our trip when we were “living” in New York , we tried to experience as many of the city’s best cafes, bars, restaurants and food stalls as possible as that’s what I really wanted to focus on during our time there. Of course, we spent tonnes of time exploring the city and experiencing as many attractions as possible but even though it was my fifth time in NYC, I’d never really prioritised the foodie side of the city before so I was determined to eat at as many places as possible while we were there.

Thankfully, that certainly paid off as we managed to tick off 50 new places to eat in New York City so I have absolutely zero regrets about that! Of course, as we were there for one month and we had our own apartment with a fully equipped kitchen, it meant that we could also cook our own meals as well.

Once we’d left New York and began our road trip across the rest of the USA, however, we hardly ever stayed anywhere where we could cook our own food so we ate out or ordered takeaway food for almost every meal.

This, of course, is what bumped our food budget up immensely and even though I had the best time eating my way across America, I would probably try and prioritise accommodation with cooking facilities if we were to do the trip again to try and save a little bit of money on meals out.

The total cost of food (meals and drinks in bars and restaurants) in the USA: £3,070.03 for two people.

Food costs in America – groceries and toiletries

As I mentioned above, the vast majority of our food budget was spent on meals out at restaurants but we also spent a good few hundred pounds on groceries. Once we’d hired a rental car in Dallas, we started to spend a bit more money on groceries as we bought lots of snacks and drinks for our long road trips.

We found some things in the supermarket to be pretty expensive in America, but the cost of groceries wasn’t hugely different from what we spend when we’re in the UK so I was pretty happy with how much we spent on groceries during our 3 months in the USA.

The total cost of groceries and toiletries during our 3-month trip around America: £644.10 for two people.

Activities – road trip costs in 3 months in the USA

During our 3 months in the USA, we spent just over £1000 on activities which included things like an annual national park pass, tickets to watch basketball, ice hockey and NFL, tickets to visit Summit in New York, a visit to Alcatraz , tickets to Universal Studios in Orlando (which were over £200 each!), plus much more.

I was actually expecting the total figure for the amount of money we spent on activities to be much higher, especially considering all the epic things we did!

The total amount of money we spent on activities in America for 3 months: £1,065.26 for two people.

Transport costs for 3 months in America

Our transport costs in America were also pretty hefty, with the cost of our rental car equalling almost half of what we spent on transport for the whole trip!

The cost of the rental car and insurance was over £1000 and then we spent another £1000 on Uber, Lyft, buses, domestic flights, trains and even bicycles! We used so many modes of transport to get across America, especially in the first two months and then once we hired a car, all of our transport costs (apart from petrol) were covered.

Total transport costs in the USA: £2,190.43 for two people.

Petrol – USA road trip costs

We had a hire car in America for 28 days and during that time, we filled up the car 13 times, although it wasn’t always completely empty when we filled the tank.

I should also note that the cost of gas went up massively during our trip, so by the end of our rental period, we were paying much more than at the very start of our road trip!

We also drove almost 4,400 miles during the 4 weeks that we had the hire car as we drove all the way from Dallas, Texas to San Francisco , California while travelling through New Mexico, Utah, Arizona and Nevada in between.

Total petrol costs for our 3 month USA road trip: £529.40.

Miscellaneous costs (including laundry, new clothes, cash withdrawals etc)

I’ve included this “miscellaneous” section as this includes all the random costs that don’t really fit into any other category, including laundry costs, new clothes and shoes that we bought in New Mexico as we didn’t really have anything warm to wear, plus a few hundred pounds in cash withdrawals, parking costs and a few other various things.

Total “miscellaneous” costs from our 3 months in the USA: £943.44.

Related posts:

• Ultimate 3-Month USA Road Trip Itinerary – New York To California
• How Much Money We Spent Living In New York For One Month In 2022
• How Much Money We Spent Travelling NZ, Australia & Southeast Asia
• How Much Money We Spent On A 3 Month Trip Around New Zealand
• The Best Travel Jobs To Make Money Travelling – How To Get Paid To Travel
• How To Make Passive Income While Travelling – 7 Best Ideas

Pin for later – USA road trip budget for 3 months

Have you ever wanted to embark on a road trip around the USA? Did you think it would be more or less expensive to spend 90 days in America? Let me know in the comments or on Instagram at @imjustagirl_16 .

The Ultimate 2 Month USA Road Trip Itinerary

Ultimate 3 Month USA Road Trip Itinerary – New York To California

2 Days In Charleston SC – The Ultimate Weekend Itinerary

The Best 4-Day Universal Studios Orlando Itinerary

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

• Work With Us

CURRENTLY IN:    Canada

The Ultimate Guide to USA Road Trip

Although it’s tempting to head overseas every time you get a bit of vacation time, taking a road trip around America can be just as eye-opening and exciting! A USA road trip can help you see parts of the country you may not have considered visiting before and will give you a better understanding and appreciation of the beauty of landscapes within the United States. 

*This post may contain affiliate links, as a result, we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) on any bookings/purchases you make through the links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Read our full disclosure

Don’t leave your home without Travel Insurance! From the US?  We recommend  Allianz Travel Insurance,  a world leader in travel protection and  our trusted Travel Insurance partner  for the last 5 years. Allianz offers  Single Trip and Annual Travel Insurance Policies  that include medical coverage, trip cancellation, rental car insurance and more! (Benefits vary by state and by plan, so read your policy carefully!)  Not a US resident?  Consider  Safety Wing ,  a  budget friendly travel insurance provider  with travel insurance plans for Digital Nomads and travelers from all around the world

Renting a vehicle for a drive across America (or using your own) and heading out to discover what many consider to be their own backyard can be just as fun as heading to exotic locations. 

A cross country road trip is the perfect holiday option when flights are expensive or if you are looking for a more eco-conscious way to explore the country. Whether you only have a few days or want to take a 2-week road trip, USA destinations can really surprise you! There are plenty of road trip ideas and itineraries to explore.

Check out our latest Road Trip

Traveling Soon?  Here is a list of our favourite travel providers and accessories to help get you ready for your upcoming trip! Book Your Accommodation HERE Search for Great Tours HERE Get a Car Rental HERE Buy Travel Insurance HERE See our Favourite Camera Bag HERE Grab a Reusable Water Bottle HERE or a Filtration Straw HERE Order an eSim HERE

Best 2 Week Road Trip – USA Routes

You don’t need to cram a whole 48-state road trip into 2 weeks. These 2 week road trip ideas highlight the best of different parts of the USA.   

West Coast America Road Trip: California, Highway 101

This west coast USA road trip is definitely a classic road trip option as the Californian highway is peppered with lovely towns with views of the Pacific Coast. Typically planning a California 2 week road trip, USA, along Highway 101 calls for driving from San Francisco to San Diego (or the reverse) and has several stops along the way.

Of course, it’s your 2 week US road trip so hit whatever stops interest you, but here are a few destinations suggestions for your west coast of USA road trip.

• Start your road trip adventures in San Francisco and take a tour of the city highlights along with a stop at Alcatraz . 
• Head to Santa Cruz and stop at the amusement park, Beach Boardwalk . 
• Don’t miss Monterey , which has boutiques, bars, and restaurants in converted factories. The area also has Monterey Bay Aquarium , which is actively involved in conservation efforts. 
• Next, the coast highway will take you to Big Sur a mountainous area, national park, and one of the most famed places on a 2 week road trip across America. Slightly below is San Simeon , where you can view migrating elephant seals. 
• Pismo Beach is known for its wineries and beaches, and Monarchs migrate south to this area in the cooler weather. 
• See the architecture in Santa Barbara , California.
• Include Malibu in your USA road trip planner to see the beach.
• Experience Hollywood in Los Angeles
• Finish your trip at the galleries and museums in San Diego.

A California Highway 1 USA road trip, west coast, offers a huge variety of experiences . There really is a little something for everyone along this route. If you like Pacific coast scenes, this is the best US road trip for you.

READ NEXT: ULTIMATE WEST COAST ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Chicago to Los Angeles Road Trip, Route 66

This stretch is a historic route and one of the most famous trips around America. Route 66 deserves a try if you want to drive part way across the country on a 2 week cross country RV trip.

• Start your USA road trip planning in Chicago (or you could end here if you choose). It allows you to visit one of the many museums, such as the Art Institute of Chicago . 
• Next on your US trip head to see the arch in St. Louis
• Drive through the heartlands of Oklahoma with stops in both Tulsa and Oklahoma City, both of which are known for their architecture. 
• Route 66 also passes through the upper tip of Texas , which takes you through Amarillo and also through Jericho Gap , where many cars once got stranded in the mud on old Route 66 on their road trips of America. 
• The beautiful views and varied landscapes of the Midwest continue through New Mexico (be sure to stop in Albuquerque and Santa Fe , New Mexico).
• Travel America via Route 66 to Arizona, with Flagstaff and Sedona taking center stage as points along the two week road trip, USA.
• Hollywood and Sunset Boulevard are good points to visit while you are in Los Angeles, California. 

Route 66 is one of the most iconic road trips in the US and often listed as one of the best US road trips. If you have more time then consider extending your trip into a 3 week road trip across America. However, if you do extend ensure you consider the additional cost to drive across country.

East Coast Road Trip: New York City to Miami, Route 95

An east coast USA road trip has a lot to do, and being able to take it at your own pace is a good way to go . Add the following places to your US road trip planner to make the most of your America trip.

• Start your America road trips in New York City, where you can visit the Statue of Liberty , attend a Broadway show, or hit all the major sites in New York with a guided tour . 
• From there, head south through Baltimore (which is worth a stop!) 
• Continue down to the nation’s capital of Washington, DC, where you can view many of the sites on a “hop on hop off” bus tour . 
• This route will also take you through the beautiful states of Virginia (possibly stop in Richmond ) and North Carolina before you hit Savannah on your roadtrip. America is full of history and lovely architecture in this area.
• Once you hit Florida , you will head through Jacksonville , West Palm Beach , and Fort Lauderdale.
• If you want to veer off of Route 95 just a bit, you can visit the oldest town in the US, which is St. Augustine. It’s filled with museums, lovely buildings, and a Spanish fort from the 1500s.
• Once you end your journey in Miami , you can head to South Beach, visit the Art Deco district, or take an airboat ride to view alligators in their natural habitat.

If you are an American road trip planner who wants a taste of a little bit of everything or if you are history buff then you might consider Route 95 one of the best road trips in USA.

This 2 week road trip across America takes you between two of the nation’s biggest cities , gives you a chance to explore the past, and will win you over with the charm of the people you meet along the way. However, if you are going to be indulging in the big cities ensure you include that in your road trip USA budget.

Colorado Road Trip

If you want to experience the beauty of inland United States, Colorado definitely delivers. For this route, consider starting your road trip USA planning in Denver

• Visit the Lookout Mountain and take a tour of the Rocky Mountains . 
• S pend a day in Boulder and take a tour of Rocky Mountain National Park and experience the trails. 
• The Glenwood Springs area offers some of the most gorgeous views of any American road trips, so have your camera ready! 
• Grand Junction is next, which is home to parks, trails, and the Colorado National Monument . 
• You can also stop in Ouray , which has lots of hiking options and then be sure to stop for a day in Mesa Verde National Park , which is full of history from the Ancestral Pueblo people.
• Other stops along the way include Buena Vista – home of the Rio Grande National Park Forest – and Colorado Springs – where you can take a segway tour of the Garden of the Gods .

We think this is one of the USA best road trips for getting close to natural destinations and exploring national parks. If you are self-contained and stay in free camping spots along the way you can really reduce your road trip across America cost too.

READ NEXT: OUR ULTIMATE COLORADO ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Southern USA Road Trip: Savannah to San Diego

Heading from coast to coast can be one of the USA best road trips as you get a glimpse of what each state offers.

• Start your road trip routes in Savannah , Georgia, a quintessential southern town with beautiful architecture and trees dripping with Spanish moss. 
• Then stop Atlanta for a 1.5-hour highlight tour of this capital city .
• The route also passes through popular US towns such as Birmingham , Alabama ; Jackson , Mississippi ; and Shreveport , Louisiana . These towns all showcase America’s southern history and sites that were significant in the civil rights movement. 
• Then you will arrive in Dallas , Texas , where you can take a tour to learn about this historic city .
• Continue on to El, Paso, Texas on your road trip USA before you get to beautiful Tuscon, Arizona , where you can add a bit of adventure to your trip by exploring history on a scavenger hunt .
• End your trip in San Diego by exploring the historic old town on a narrated trolley tour .

Road trip routes through the Southern United States will give you a taste of Southern charm and will give you a chance to learn about the civil rights movement – exactly where it took place. However, keep in mind that big-city travel can really cut into your cross country road trip cost so be wary of your spending there if you are trying to keep your road trip America cost low. 

Road Trip Across America: Cost Considerations

If you have ever considered a road trip across America, you’ll have asked yourself “how much does it cost to drive cross country?” and considered the cross country road trip cost .

If you don’t have a vehicle at your disposal, you’ll need to rent one. It’s practically impossible to rent a car in the US for less than $40/day and it’s really hard to find a deal for an RV for under $100/night. So this will affect your road trip America cost – but it is a necessary expense.

Add in spending on gas, accommodation, food, etc and your cost of cross country road trip will quickly add up , making what seemed like a great vacation idea seem like a rather expensive getaway.

We’re always crunching numbers and asking ourselves, “how much does it cost to travel around the world?” But we really had no idea of the road trip across America cost!

Planning for our trip, we knew that sticking to a small daily budget was going to be tough, but we wanted to see if we could keep our road trip across America cost to $125/day for two people (Spoiler: we almost did!).

How Long Does it Take to Drive Across America?

It is totally up to you to decide how long does it take to drive across the US. Each of the road trip routes we have suggested can be completed comfortably in two weeks . However, there are innumerable things to do along the way and the States is a big country so you can take as long as you like.

We met people who had been on the road for years, making their way slowly across the country. So, as you can imagine, there are no hard and fast rules to answering how long does it take to drive across America – the decision is up to you!

But how long does it take to drive across America non-stop anyway? If you weren’t in it for the journey and were just trying to zoom from coast to coast as quickly as possible, you could do it in 35-45 hours. Some people even take it a step further and take on the 48 states in 10 days route . This is a surefire way to check off tons of states on your list but we much prefer to enjoy the journey as much as the end destination.

Is it Safe to Drive Across America?

Of course! Always be sure to educate yourself on state driving laws while following the speed limit and being aware of your surroundings. There are A LOT of large transport trucks on American highways so be mindful of passing etiquette and you’ll be good to go.

Cross-Country Road Trip Cost

Here is a detailed breakdown of our cross-country road trip cost to help you answer the question of “how much does it cost to drive across the country?” It is based on our 16 days 3,000 mile/4,500kms road trip from Chicago to Los Angeles .

If you are wondering “How much does it cost to drive across the country?” the first thing to consider is the cost of driving itself. 

The cost of driving from Chicago to Los Angeles was by far the biggest percentage of our overall USA road trip budget . We knew that we had to find a cheap way to get around or this USA road trip ideas would quickly be thrown out the window.

RV Rental – $610 ($38/day)

Luckily, we were able to use some of the tips and tricks we learned while traveling around Australia to determine how much it would cost to travel across America. Then apply them to help our 2 week cross country RV trip cost in the US.  

We were lucky to have been able to find a GREAT DEAL for a campervan rental at just $39/night.

While it wasn’t as good as $1/day, the deal offered us a longer rental, giving us more time on the road , and a brand new (hence the factory relocation) massive RV for our cross-country road trip. It was big enough for 7 people, so having all the space for just 2 of us felt like absolute luxury. 

The total for 16 days/15 nights added up to $610 of our cross country road trip cost.

READ NEXT: 12 Best Van Conversion Companies That Will Build Your Van for You

Fuel – $682 ($42/day)

Gas ended up costing a bit more than we would’ve liked on our 2 week road trip across America, adding up to almost 30% of our total travel budget . With 3,000 miles (around 4,500 km) ahead of us on our 2-week road trip, we knew that we’d need around 6 tanks of gas to get us from Chicago to Los Angeles , but we underestimated the cost of gas across the country and our RV’s efficiency on the road. How much does a cross country road trip cost? More than we thought as far as fuel was concerned.

Propane = $60 ($4/day)

When budgeting for our trip, we completely forgot to account for the cost of propane . It didn’t add up to a lot, which was surprising considering that the stove, fridge, furnace, and water heater in our RV were all powered by propane. All things considered, it was a small drop in a big bucket but should be accounted for if you’re the designated road trip USA planner.

Accommodation Costs = $179 ($12/day)

Despite the fact that our RV was completely self-sustainable (it was equipped with a shower, toilet, and a full-size kitchen), we weren’t able to spend more than 2-3 days away from an RV park during our trip.

To our greatest surprise, RV parks in the US weren’t as cheap as we expected. We planned on spending $10-15/night for a powered site, but in reality, we never found anything for less than $30/night. It was yet another thing that added more than we thought to our United States road trip cost.

On nights when we didn’t need to be plugged in, we followed seasoned RV’ers advice and parked in Walmart parking lots or enjoyed being away from it all by finding an isolated spot in the middle of a forest road just off of our trip routes.

Food Costs = $339 ($21/day)

To keep our cross country road trip cost down, we choose not to eat out on this trip and cooked most of our meals in the RV . But we didn’t deprive ourselves.

We stocked up on fresh fruits and veggies, good quality meats, and nutrient-rich ingredients. Let’s face it, American groceries tend to be a bit more expensive than what we had been used to in Costa Rica so we had to keep our food expenses in check. Since our American road trip budget didn’t allow for daily meals out, we made sure to cook up a storm and make a big deal out of our meals.

We drank wine, enjoyed some beers, and even splurged on desserts! Needless to say, we weren’t starving throughout our trip and our food and drinks expenses reflected that.

Cost of Supplies

Rv supplies – $292 ($18/day).

It cost us a few hundred dollars to stock up on various supplies for the RV . There were a few road trip accessories that we can’t believe we didn’t think of before our trip and some bedding and kitchen supplies.  

Cruise America offers to rent bedding and crockery to guests for their USA road trips but we figured that we could find much better quality stuff if we were to buy it ourselves for our 2 week cross country RV trip. And we did!

At the end of the trip, we took all the supplies up to Oksana’s parent’s house in Canada. One day, we’ll dig them up from storage in the basement and use them for another drive across America! 

How much does a road trip cost? A lot less when you already have the supplies from a previous trip!

READ NEXT: 12 ROAD TRIP ACCESSORIES THAT WILL TAKE YOUR TRIP FROM GOOD TO GREAT

Mobile Phone – $60 ($4/day)

To stay connected on the road we purchased a 30-day 10GB mobile data plan from T-Mobile for $60 . It was a pricey investment and one that we completely forgot to account for at the beginning of planning a road trip across the States, but being able to stay connected and keep up with our work while on the road warranted the expense. 

A great alternative, which we didn’t know about it at the time, would have been a Solis Hotspot . Solis Hotspot offers flexible data plans , including Unlimited Data plans for heavy users or a Pay Per Use plan at just $9/1GB ideal for someone who just wants to stay connected and keep up with emails/messages or spends hours on social media while on this trip.

Cost of Activities – $160 ($10/day)

We didn’t spend a ton of money on activities throughout our road trip across America . Cost was factored into many of the things we did. 

We splurged on a Cog Railway ticket to the top of Pikes Peak, because hiking up the mountain wasn’t an option in my condition , and our 30 foot RV wouldn’t have made it up the winding roads either. Luckily, it was a great journey and money well spent.

National Parks Pass – $80

Another expense that we incurred on the trip was the cost of a yearly National Parks Pass ($80) . We got lucky with our timing as the first week of our trip coincided with the Annual National Parks Week , which gave us access to all National Parks across the country for free.

But by the time we got down to Arizona and California, the deal was off and the steep price at the Grand Canyon and at the Joshua Tree National Park made the $80 we paid for the pass completely worth it.

We think that $80 for an annual park’s pass was very reasonable. Especially considering they were some of the highlights of our American road trip. You can pre-purchase your National Park’s Pass here .

2 Week Road Trip USA – Total Cost – $2,382 ($149/day)

Our road trip across America cost us $2,382, or an average of $149/day between both of us for a 16-day road trip across the US. 

It’s more than the $125/day that we planned on for our USA road trip budget, but we’re not kicking ourselves for it. Our estimate for how much would it cost to travel across America was a bit off, but we had a great experience despite a bit of increased road trip cost.

Looking back on our spending patterns, we realized that the biggest cost drivers were RV rental and gas . And while it might be possible to reduce the daily gas costs by staying on the road for longer and spreading the cost of gas over more days, the increase in daily RV rental would probably offset that.

READ NEXT: WE ARE GOING ON A ROAD TRIP ACROSS THE U.S.

How to Save on USA Road Trips

Looking ahead, we are not giving up on our mission to find more cost-effective ways to enjoy USA road trips . Next time, we plan USA road trips we will cover shorter distances (and save on gas in the process), look for even better relocation deals, and use some of our existing supplies to help us save on USA road trips costs. 

We are confident that we can make it happen on future road trips, USA! Of course, having now put together this handy cross country road trip cost calculator it will be helpful in estimating all travel costs ahead of the trip. 

We hope that this info can also aid you in determining how much your road trips USA may cost.

Road Trips USA – Eco-Friendly Tips

American road trips USA can take its toll on the environment but there are ways to minimize its effects. Not to mention, we tend to find that the more eco-friendly a trip is the more cost-effective trip too!

• Choose a hybrid model or energy-efficient vehicle whenever possible.
• If you’re driving your own car or an RV get it serviced prior to your USA road trip. Your RV or car rental agency will do this for you but you can still check your oil and tire pressure regularly while you’re on the road for better fuel efficiency.

• When it’s hot out roll down the windows instead of using A/C for better fuel economy.
• Choose eco-friendly accommodation options , and restaurants while on the road. Try camping or staying in national parks like we did, and shopping for food at local farmers markets.  
• Avoid single-use plastics and minimize packaging by using reusable grocery bags and collapsible containers when you need to restock food and refreshments. 
• Don’t forget to invest in a good reusable water bottle.
• Bring your friends! It’s always better to travel with a full car or RV. A five-person vehicle is so much more eco-friendly and cost-effective than traveling with a couple of two-seaters.

Your USA Best Road Trips Await

No matter what USA road trip routes you take, one thing reigns true – the United States is filled with variety! From mountainous regions and oceans to historic cities and untouched land, there are so many things to do on a two-week road trip for a variety of tastes.

We hope this article will give you the USA road trip ideas and tools you need to plan your trip. See you on the road

Do you have any questions about an American road trip? Itinerary planning? Road trip suggestions are always welcome!

Read Next: Road Trip Essentials: 50 Things To Bring On A Road Trip

About The Author

Oksana & Max St John

34 thoughts on “the ultimate guide to usa road trip”.

Excellent article. I was wondering what it was costing you to travel around. I know in New Zealand I got a great deal on Toyota Space Wagon and it was very cheap. Obviously your RV was much larger and better equipped but it’s still fairly expensive it would seem.

We never paid for RV parks or stuff either, we used to sneak into hostels and use their showers (I was young and on a budget so forgive me)!

But I remember the freedom of travelling around in the car and the complete freedom was an amazing feeling. I have been wondering how a road trip across America would compare to my recent trips to Uzbekistan and other more average priced destinations. It seems that the price is comparable if there are two people travelling.

Thanks for information.

We know we didn’t get the best deal on the campervan itself, so that’s a cost we can improve on, but the rest of it really just comes down to the price of gas and groceries. That’s really where the bulk of the costs comes from. Also, if you don’t have a large RV with a toilet and/or shower and don’t need to dump gray/black water, then there is really no need to stay in RV parks in the US either. There are tons of truck stops along the highways where you can actually shower and use the toilet for free or for next to nothing. Unfortunately, that wasn’t an option for us. At least not with this RV.

Your pictures are beautiful! 🙂 My dad always wanted to take RV trips, but they can definitely be more expensive than you would expect.

Julia http://www.thephillyphotoblog.com/

Thanks for sharing! I would love to do a road trip across the US in the next few years, and may look at doing an RV. My husband and I are doing a short RV trip from Darwin, Australia in a few weeks, and we learnt that it’s definitely not cheap – especially when we didn’t want to use Wicked, plus needed a guaranteed Auto. (Luckily as a travel blogger I managed to get a good discount!)

We found Apollo to be great in that part of Australia. They had some great $1/day deals from Darwin to Perth when we looked into it. If you end up doing more road trips in US or in Australia, look into Imoova – great rates on relocations in both Australia and the US.

My friend told me about how RV’ing is a huge culture down in the United States, and that it is quite common to park at Walmart parking lots overnight to reduce costs. I thought he was just kidding about that, but you have confirmed that it is not the case. I would have assumed you would get ticketed or towed if you did that.

Also, you can overnight at some large truck stops, some casinos, and our state parks and national parks are very reasonably priced, but some of the more popular ones are reserved up to a year ahead. For self-contained (no hook up)/boondock/’dispersed’ camp sites, there are many free places in the western part of the country–BLM (Bureau of Land Management) and COE (Corps of Engineers). Campendium is a good resource to find these.There are also apps where you can find pump outs and potable water to refill your tanks, without staying in an expensive RV park.

Nice post. So its cost you close to 2400US dollars for the travel. You guys really have a huge budget for the journey.

We usually travel on a budget of $100/day between both of us, which isn’t that high at all! On this trip, we went a bit over budget, which sometimes happens. Luckily, we are able to offset more expensive trips like this one with cheaper destinations and make sure that we stick to our $100/day budget on average for the year!

Sounds wonderful! We have recently retired and are really wanting to travel west, being from Illinois, but we always thought the RV would be way out of our budget. But, when you consider hotel rooms and restaurants in a car(even a fuel efficient one like ours), the RV rental makes a lot of sense. I always see them parked at Wal-Mart’s and truck stops. One question? Can we make it to Los Angeles, up the Pacific Coast Highway, Yosemite and back to Illinois on Hwy 80 in 2 weeks?

@SALLY Miller : I don’t see why not ,but here’s the thing , why would you want to put yourself in time constraints ? Taking you on that trip is about 5300 miles dividing that into 14 days is about 350 miles a day, taking you to Portland Or. and back. I’d try to take more time if it were me .

Did you ever drive and stay in the cities at that RV? Is that possible to go through Chicago by the way?

We mostly stayed in National Parks or in designated RV sites. There were some in the cities, but we did not stay in Chicago. We started our trip just outside of Chicago, so we did not need to drive through the city. But, there is no reason why you would not be able to go on the highway with your RV.

I am amazed and excited to read about your journey. It would help me a lot in planning my trips. You missed my country Pakistan. I suggest that you should explore the cultural city of Lahore and Northern Pakistan. Let me know if I can be on any help.

Thank you soooo much for posting all this detail! Our family of 4 (maybe 5 if the niece comes along) is going to do about a 3k R/T Eastern Canada trip and I can actually apply so much of your budget to our trip. And your resources. You’re legends – the both of you!

You seriously don’t know how much I appreciate this!!!

Happy to hear that you have found the post helpful. Enjoy your adventure 🙂

Thanks for all the great information, sounds like you had a wonderful time. My family and friends are planning a USA trip from Australia next September 2020. I was wondering who you went with for the hire of the RV? Thanks Tracey

We hired our RV through Cruise America. They had a great relocation deal that helped us save tons on the rental.

How did you rent your camper so cheap? Cruise America is quoting me over $5,000 for a two weeks. Thanks Nathan

We scored a great relocator deal! You have to be flexible with your dates and your route and you can find some great budget-friendly options.

For those who don’t know, a “relocator deal” is when they need the rig moved to where you are going. You are actually transporting the vehicle for them, and using it along the way.

Thanks for all the tips!

I enjoyed visiting your webiste. I rarely leave comments, but you definately deserve a thumbs up!

Just read your post on your drive across America from Chicago to LA. I have been wanting to take my family on a cross country trip for along time. I was just looking at RV rentals and chose Cruise America like the one you used. What am I missing? A standard RV rental for cross country trip both ways from GA to CA is over $4000 even with a 50% off promo code. You don’t just have to pay for the rental, you have to pay for mileage also. I was expecting a cross country budget for my family of 6 (me, my wife, and 4 daughters all under 9 years) to be around $5K-6K . The cost of RV rental would almost double that budget estimate and puts this trip out of reach. How did you rent an RV for 16 days for $600+?

Hi Will, we mention our “trick” in the article a bit. We found a great relocation deal for our road trip. These are quite common and are offered by many RV providers, but they do require you to be somewhat flexible with your dates and sometimes even destinations. A relocation deal is a special discount offered on one-way rentals when the rental company really needs to get an RV from one destination to another. Instead of hiring a worker to drive the RV to the desired destination, they put the vehicle up for rent, specifying the dates and route that needs to be taken. It’s worth looking through the deals if you have flexibility. Good luck with your search!

I just checked RV price on Cruiseamerica.com and the price is far more expensive from what You presented.

Estimate (All Prices USD $) 15 Nights $1270.05 1500 Estimated miles: $525.00 Supplemental Liability Insurance: No Charge Environment Fee: $7.00 Subtotal: $1802.05 State Tax: $108.12 Damage Deposit: $500.00 Total Charge: $2410.17

Hi Dario, yes regular price for an RV will be much higher. We got ours through a relocation deal. It was a one-way rental deal with a particular route and for specific dates. Check their relocation deals and see what they might have on offer right now. Keep in mind that you will need to stay flexible with dates and route if you want to score a deal like we did.

I have an interesting situation. Our leased car has 7000 miles left over due to lock down. So only gas cost is there. It is a suv large size very comfortable but gas consumption will be high. Your suggestion of national park tickets in membership is a good one.. thanks for your tips. If you had included Things not to miss would have been great.

Glad you found the tips useful. Hope you find a fun way to use up those extra miles on your car. Sounds like a road trip is a must!

I’m planning a cross country road trip from NY to California and need suggestions on itinerary and best sightseeing routes, places to stay etc. I found your article very informative, thanks

Such a fascinating read. It’s amazing to see a full break down of what you paid for your road trip! Thank you for the amazing tips, and info, this really helps!

Hi dear Oksana&Max I’m Dariush from Iran. I enjoyed this text.thanks for excellent description about your trip. I hope could make program to travel to the us in close future. I invite you to come Iran. I can be your free host. Hope to see you

Thank you for sharing your incredible travel journal. Amazing Mind Blowing Video.

Good you explained everything in detail it has been a great help. Thanks for sharing the Useful and Informative Blog. Wonderful travel blog along with beautiful pics. This is the amazing Travel Plan.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Download Japan Trip Itinerary

Enter your name and email to get our Japan Trip brochure with more details about this trip in your inbox.

Join our 2025 Group Trips Pre-sale List

Be the first to know about NEW Trips and SPECIAL Offers!

Have 5 minutes to share more info? Fill out the Pre-Sale trip survey HERE

Interested in joining us in Japan?

Love the sound of this trip? Ready to book? Have some questions? 

Send an inquiry and let's chat!

Leave your details below and be the first to get updates, special deals, and connect with us directly about this trip!

Reignite the Feminine Retreat

Love the idea of a women-only retreat in September 2024?

Help me decide where we should go! 

Our women-only gatherings will be limited to 8-10 people, so leave your details below to add yourself to the waitlist.

We'll email you first to share all the details of the trip. 

US West Coast Road Trip: Campervan Budget and Costs

It takes time to plan the ultimate campervan road trip in the USA .

There is the itinerary, activities to book and campsites to find. Also essential is a road trip budget.

To help you with this last critical step, in this post we are going to break down the campervan budget for a 4 week US West Coast road trip.

• 1 West Coast Road Trip USA
• 2 Road Trip Budget
• 3.1 Our Travel Style
• 3.2 Trip Statistics
• 3.3 What Is Included
• 3.4 What Is Not Included
• 4.1 Use a Budget App
• 5.1 Campervan / RV Rental – $2,030 / $64 per day
• 5.2 Other Transport Costs – $773 / $22 per day
• 5.3 Accommodation – $1,044 / $30 per day
• 5.4 Groceries – $1,670 / $48 per day
• 5.5 Eating out – $402 / $11 per day
• 5.6 Activities – $459 / $13 per day
• 5.7 Other Costs – $55 / $1.50 per day
• 5.8 Guide Books
• 6.1 Key Resources to Book Your West Coast Family Road Trip!

West Coast Road Trip USA

We were excited to spend almost 5 weeks on a USA West Coast road trip.

California, Nevada, Utah and Arizona all offer an enormous variety of experiences on the ultimate USA road trip.

With some of the best National Parks in the world, famous cities, even more famous beaches and classic driving routes, there is a lot to love about this US road trip itinerary.

Read Next: 4 week US South West Road Trip Itinerary

Road Trip Budget

So an important question is how much does a road trip cost? When we prepared our roadtrip USA budget we found it difficult to find good, detailed road trip costs.

There just didn’t seem to be much detailed information about the average cost of an american road trip, especially for a family.

So, during our US road trip we monitored our campervan budget and kept track of all our expenses. The good news is that with a little planning, your campervan travel costs don’t need to break the bank.

We hope you find this information a useful starting point to develop your own family road trip budget. It will at least give you an idea of what things cost to help you plan your ultimate American road trip.

West Coast USA Campervan Budget

Your travel style has a big impact on your trip costs.

Some people like to eat out a lot, others like to pay for lots of activities. Some people like to stay in hotel rooms when they travel.

To ‘set the scene’ for our USA travel budget, we describe below how we travel. Compare your own style of travel in order to develop your personal USA travel budget.

Our Travel Style

• A small RV was our home for the majority of this West Coast America road trip.
• We tended towards budget travel. To be honest, it is the only way we can afford to travel . So no expensive hotel stays on this trip.
• On the road we purchased snacks, beer and wine, but we rarely ate out at restaurants.
• Cheap and free activities were our preference. Occasionally we splurged on special activities (which we have listed).
• We stayed in a mixture of National Park campgrounds and private RV parks.

Trip Statistics

• Length of Trip: 35 days
• Distance Travelled: 1631 miles (2624 kilometres)

What Is Included

• RV rental, transport, fuel, accommodation, groceries, eating out and activities.
• Costs are for 4 people (2 adults and 2 children aged 10 and 8).
• Costs are in $USD and based on travel in October 2017.

What Is Not Included

• Travel insurance
• A very expensive but enjoyable day trip to Disneyland.

All of these costs vary depending on where you are coming from and whether you have kids who have a burning desire to go to Disneyland.

Transfer money internationally with ease with Wise .

Wise is an online money transfer service which lets you quickly and easily transfer money much more cheaply than a bank. We use and love Wise!

Click here to find out more

How We Track Our Trip Costs

We find the easiest way to road trip on a budget is to track our expenses day by day.

We can quickly see if we have overspent and plan for cheap days to get back on track. Knowledge is power and this is so true when it comes to managing your US road trip costs.

Use a Budget App

So how do we do this? We love and use an app called Trabee Pocket. It is available on both Android and IOS devices.

The app allows you to set up a budget, categories and enter every cost each day while on the go. It is quick and easy to do and it soon becomes a simple habit.

We can’t recommend this app enough for anyone wanting to take a budget road trip – it should be included on your road trip checklist .

Once you try it out we recommend you purchase the paid version – they offer far more functionality for a very small price.

Detailed Road Trip Costs

The best way to budget a road trip is to break it down into the main cost categories and work out an average cost per day. This process will give you a good starting point for how much money you need to save for your road trip budget.

The actual daily cost will fluctuate depending on where you stay and how far you travel each day, but if you track your costs you will know how you are tracking against your average cost.

Campervan / RV Rental – $2,030 / $64 per day

Campervan travel has to be one of the best ways to explore America. Whilst we love camping in a tent with the kids, if you are moving regularly, a campervan is easier to set up and pack down.

How much does a campervan cost? It is common for people to worry about renting an RV due to the daily cost.

While we agree RV rental can be expensive, our experience renting campervans in several countries including Africa and Australia has shown that bargains can be found.

Plus, if you are prepared to cook your own meals and stay at cheap campsites, you will quickly offset the van rental costs.

Click here to compare RV prices

Tips to Reduce your Campervan Hire Costs

There is no doubt hiring a campervan in USA during the peak summer season comes at a high price. Our tips for reducing campervan travel costs and planning a road trip around the USA on a budget are:

• Avoid peak season RV rental. Prices jump significantly during this time and it is difficult to find a bargain.
• Look at small campervan rental. The large RVs are more expensive – not only to hire but also to refuel and park.
• Plan a longer trip! The average daily price will drop for longer rental periods.
• If you have young kids, bring your own travel car seat instead of renting one.

If an RV is not for you, don’t forget there are other ways to road trip on a budget.

Hiring a car (or using your own car) and packing camping gear is another way to save a load of cash when on a road trip.

Click here to compare car rental prices

Campervan Hire in USA

For our US West Coast road trip we rented a Jucy Camper. Unconventional, perhaps, in a country renowned for its oversized RVs. We certainly attracted plenty of attention pulling up at RV Parks with our itty bitty green camper!

The Jucy Campers offer great flexibility for shorter road trips, even for a family of 4. They are the size of a regular car, with beds for 4 people, a functional kitchen and a small fridge.

In a Jucy Camper you get all the convenience of a regular sized vehicle with the freedom to stay wherever you please plus the convenience of a kitchen to prepare your own meals. Due to their size and simple set up there is less to learn before you start your trip.

You do spend more time outside cooking and eating than what you would in a full-size RV, but we loved this because it felt more like camping.

Jucy Campers are also much cheaper than a full-size RV and are a good choice for a budget trip to USA. We traveled in the shoulder season and were very excited to secure a great deal on the Jucy Camper for 32 days at $64 USD per day.

If you are considering campervan hire in USA, we recommend booking through  Motorhome Republic . They have a wide range of campers available, including the Jucy campers and full size RVs for longer trips.

Click here to compare the latest RV prices

Other Transport Costs – $773 / $22 per day

The good news for your campervan budget is that gas is cheap in the USA compared to many other countries. This really helps keep your American road trip cost down.

In this category we include gas (petrol), tolls, parking fees, butane fuel canisters for the gas cooker and car rental in San Francisco.

We were staying further out of town with friends in San Francisco at the end of our road trip and were able to book a car for $35 USD per day.

This category also includes taxi costs in Las Vegas and to/from the car rental locations in San Francisco. We used Lyft in the USA for all our taxi rides.

Transport costs breakdown:

If you are considering car rental for your road trip, we recommend discovercars.com

With all the biggest car hire brands available, we find it quick and easy to book with them, no matter what country we are in.

Click here to check prices

Accommodation – $1,044 / $30 per day

This category covers campsites and hotel accommodation. Overall, we thought private campgrounds in the USA were expensive compared to many countries in Europe, but cheaper than in Australia.

Campgrounds in the National Parks were pretty good value at around $25 USD a night. Campsites were well designed and each site had a picnic table and fire ring or grill.

Our trip overlapped with local school holidays when we visited Zion National Park. We were unable to secure a spot in the National Park Campground and stayed at a privately run (and more expensive) campground outside the park.

When we visited Yosemite National Park   we were also unable to secure a campsite within the park. Again, we stayed just outside the park at a private campground.

On two particularly cold and wet nights we opted to stay in budget hotels which increased our costs.

We were able to find great last minute deals on booking.com and found perfectly warm and dry rooms for $80 USD a night.

Click here to find the best hotel deals

We were fortunate to stay with friends in San Francisco, so had 6 nights free accommodation during the month.

Staying in Campgrounds vs Free Camping

You will also note from the number of nights in campgrounds that we didn’t free camp (boondocking / wild camping). To be honest we didn’t have the time to search for good free camps on this trip.

There are many websites that list free camps, so if you want to travel USA on a budget, finding free camps is where you should invest some time. This article provides a good summary of the options and links to free camping websites.

Another option if you have an RV or Trailer is to register with Harvest Hosts . With a huge network of unique sites across the country, you can stay for free at sites like wineries, farms, golf courses and attractions.

We find campgrounds offer many benefits. Apart from the pleasure of a daily shower, our kids have space to explore safely, in some they can often enjoy a swim in the pool at the end of the day, and they have the opportunity to meet and play with other kids.

The CampersCard is a good option if you plan to stay at paid campsites – it offers discounts on site bookings plus plenty of other discounts and perks for members.

But, if you are looking to do a US road trip on a budget, free camping is one of the best ways to save large amounts of money.

US National Park Campground Bookings

If you are planning to visit any of the USA National Parks, we recommend you check well in advance if you can pre-book on  Recreation.gov . Campgrounds within Yosemite National Park book out months in advance.

Your best chance of securing a site at these high demand sites is to register with CampScanner . You select the parks you want to book and you will be notified the minute they open for bookings.

On the flip side, some National Parks have a no booking system. For these it is first in, best dressed (like Zion National Park and Joshua Tree National Park).

For campgrounds with no bookings you need to plan to arrive very early, especially on weekends and during peak periods, to have any chance of getting a spot.

Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel.

World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.

Groceries – $1,670 / $48 per day

We prepared almost all the 105 meals eaten during our road trip. So this cost per day covers every breakfast, morning and afternoon tea, most lunches and dinners, plus marshmallows for toasting on the fire.

While this total cost looks high, it includes groceries, beer, wine and ice for 4 people. It also includes firewood as we usually bought wood at the supermarket.

We think this shows a HUGE saving over eating out, right? Cooking your own meals is the secret to cheap family road trips and is where you will re-coup some of that higher RV rental cost.

I know, it isn’t as glamorous or easy as sitting down at a restaurant. But eating just one meal out each day would most likely cost more than this total daily food cost.

Even when you include our eating out costs in the next category, the total cost is still way below the cost of eating out all meals each day.

Cooking on the Road

To give some perspective on how well we ate for this cost:

• Breakfast was typically bagels, cereal or eggs on toast.
• Lunch was generally bread rolls with deli meat or salad fillings.
• Dinner was simple – pasta, sausages, salad, chicken, etc. We found beef to be expensive and didn’t buy it much.
• We often purchased bakery treats, beer and wine in addition to our regular groceries and these costs are included in the grocery total cost.

The fridge in the Jucy Camper was big enough to fit our chilled groceries (we shopped every few days). It was not large enough to fit our drinks. We purchased a cooler bag and kept it topped up with ice to keep our milk, juice, beer and wine chilled.

Cooking Equipment

The Jucy Camper was well equipped with saucepans, frypan, kettle, and utensils for preparing meals.

We purchased a camping cookbook  which was very useful for coming up with simple meal ideas each night and these camp cooking hacks include some great ideas for making cooking outdoors easy.

All meals in the cookbook could be prepared on a gas cooktop or over an open fire and we referred to it each day for inspiration.

We also purchased this stove top coffee maker , this awesome toast maker and containers to store leftover food which helped us reduce food wastage and save even more money.

Most campgrounds permitted fires so we regularly purchased firewood. As the evenings were cool (freezing at times) and we didn’t have space inside the Jucy Camper to hang out, this was a great way to stay warm.

Plus, it was great to have a campfire each night. The kids became masters of stoking the fire, loved roasting marshmallows and constructing s’mores.

Eating out – $402 / $11 per day

As you can see from the cost per day, we didn’t eat out much! We prefer to spend our limited cash on experiences than on food in restaurants.

During our budget road trip we had one splurge on a ridiculously expensive meal in Las Vegas (don’t ask) and 4 take-out meals – pizza and burgers.

This category includes those dinners plus many take-out snacks, including ice creams, pastries and general rewards (bribes) for hiking with the kids.

Activities – $459 / $13 per day

We were surprised to find that activities in the USA were quite expensive. That is, apart from hiking in the National Parks.

Our $80 USD annual National Parks Pass  meant we were free to enjoy the hiking trails, junior ranger programs and shuttle buses to get around at the 6 National Parks we visited.

If you want to take a family road trip on a budget, we recommend you spend some time before you go researching the paid activities available. Also chat to your kids about what they might like to do.

It is possible, but not necessary, to spend infinite amounts of money on expensive activities.

We suggest you plan ahead and choose a select number of memorable activities for the family.

Activities are a great gift idea for RV travelers , so plan ahead and suggest some ideas to your loved ones before you go!

In the US we recommend taking a look at Get Your Guide and Viator for unique experiences and activities. They both offer a huge range of tours and we find them both to be reliable and well run.

Click here to browse the huge range of activities available

Our total spend in this category includes the activities we splurged on during our road trip in USA.

I have itemized them below as activities are a highly personal decision so I wanted you to be able to easily remove it from the total cost.

Other Costs – $55 / $1.50 per day

Laundry:  $25. Campground washing machines were cheaper in the USA than anywhere else in the world! So while we were used to hand washing regularly, on this road trip we made more use of the machine to save us time.

Mobile SIM CARD: $30. This was a single recharge for the month.

Guide Books

I haven’t included the cost of guide books and hiking guides that we purchased as these are totally optional. Who buys guide books any more I hear you say?

Well, we do and we recommend you do too! Why? Cell (mobile) coverage is very patchy throughout the National Parks. We found it incredibly frustrating to plan our trip, find accommodation and research activities without mobile reception.

For this reason we strongly recommend you take hard copies of any guide books, maps, hiking guides or books you may need during your trip.

In addition to our favorite guide book, the Lonely Planet , we also highly recommend you purchase a copy of this National Parks Guide .

We referred to this book on a daily basis during our US West Coast road trip to plan hikes and activities in each of the National Parks.

Road trip on a Budget – Summary

Total trip cost:  $6,435 USD / $184 USD per day

Our total family road trip cost was $6,435. That is $184 USD per day for a family of 4.  Some hotel rooms cost more than that a night!

I am certain that our ultimate US road trip cost could have been less. Areas where we could have saved money:

• Chosen a more affordable buffet meal in Las Vegas
• Opted to free camp
• Spent less on treats such as beer and marshmallows.

If you don’t need to rent a vehicle you can instantly cut this total cost by a third.

The USA West Coast was an easy and fun place to road trip in a campervan with kids. There is so much to see and do and in our opinion it is one of the best US road trips for families. You can read more about our West Coast itinerary here.

Read Next: Best US Road Trip Routes

Key Resources to Book Your West Coast Family Road Trip!

Flights to USA  –  Skyscanner  is our favorite flight search site. It compares hundreds of sites and millions of flights to show you the best deals available.

Accommodation  – For the National Parks book  here . For hotels in the USA we recommend booking.com

Transport  –  If you would like to rent a campervan in USA check out Motorhome Republic for great RV rental deals. If you would prefer to rent a car we recommend discovercars.com

Travel Insurance for USA  – World Nomads travel insurance policies offer coverage for more than 150 activities. Get a quote, make a claim, or buy or extend your policy while on the road.

Activities  – Booking some fun activities is a must when planning a family road trip on a budget. When we travel in the US we like to use Viator . Click here to search for unique activities and experiences.

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Please comment below to let us know if this breakdown of our campervan budget helps you budget your trip.

Love a road trip? You may also like to read:

• Best US Road Trip Routes
• USA West Coast Road Trip Itinerary
• Best anti theft backpacks
• How to explore Botswana on a budget

Pin to save and read later

Rachel Rodda

Related Posts

The Best Road Trips In The US

Yosemite National Park with kids

4 Week USA West Coast Road Trip With Kids

20 thoughts on “us west coast road trip: campervan budget and costs”.

Thank you for sharing your adventures and the practical tips and costs. I’ve been on your blog for days, clicking on your links and planning our trip. You made it all a lot easier to work out with everything in one place. Living the dream

That is great to hear. I am so glad you have found the information helpful – family trip costs in particular are really hard to find. Have a great trip!

It’s great to see a breakdown like this. We did a 2-week USA road trip last year but never kept track of costs. I might start doing it for future trips though to help other families out. #fearlessfamtrav

This is so useful and interesting! We were thinking about doing a US road trip for our honeymoon (with our daughter!) a few years ago but we couldn’t really afford it. But I’d still love to do one and this is so helpful to know that it can be done on a budget and still be amazing! xx #fearlessfamtrav

This post is PERFECT for any parent considering a road trip in the States (me!!!!) I’ve wanted to do this for so long but was worried about the costs. You’ve made me realise that it’s so doable! Just need to find some good flight deals now

Thank you for linking up to #fearlessfamtrav

Absolutely doable! And it could be done even cheaper with a little planning for free camping. We can’t wait to explore more of the US National Parks.

Hi there, thank you for this, it is super helpful. My extended family from Australia are dreaming about a US west coast road trip and this is a great place to start to get an idea of cost. I’m grateful that you were so detailed in your description of different expenses. So, where was your favourite place??? #fearlessfamtrav

sooo hard to choose a favourite. Although, if you were twisting my arm, I think I would say Zion National Park. So spectacular with so many amazing hikes. I want to go back and do the narrows..

*SUCH* a great post and so helpful. It just shows how you can experience fantastic travel without spending loads. It’s still a splurge but oh the rewards! #fearlessfamtrav

This is a really useful post. Being from the US, and growing up going on road trips to my grandparent’s house every summer, I find it interesting that people travel to the US specifically for the road trip experience. I admit, I’m not actually a fan of long term road trips as it’s just a way of getting from one place to another for me. But it is interesting to read others’ experiences. #fearlessfamtrav

I am with you regarding distance – coming from Australia everything is a long drive away and often we will drive hours just to get to a place. But, I think when a road trip is specifically planned around seeing the places on the way it becomes a unique holiday experience.

This is a really useful post. I started planning out a trip for my family but it was working out too expensive. It is good to hear from someone who has done it and the real costs #fearlessfamtrav

This is a fantastic post. So much useful information I love your infographics and your detailed expenditure breakdow. You’ve included all the things people can forget like laundry and sim card. What a fantastic experience for your children – I’d love to do this one day and your post is invaluable! #fearlessfamtrav

Thanks Jo. Glad you found it helpful!

What a super helpful post Rachel! We are really hoping to do a southern US road trip soon so this is great info. I need to check out those budget apps too. We have always used pen and paper before to track travel expenses, but we need to get with the times! #fearlessfamtrav

The budget app is probably one of the best apps we have ever purchased. It makes it so much quicker and easier to keep track and stay on budget.

I love informative posts like this. We just did a road trip but in a car! We too enjoyed Disney but you are right it can be expensive #fearlessfamtrav

Road trips are fun however you do them I think. I had to put the cost of Disney to the back of my mind and just enjoy the day!

This is great! I am with you that there is not much info on day to day costs for this kind of travelling. You guys are very detailled!

Thanks Kate, I am glad you found it useful. We are mindful that everyone travels differently, so it makes a good starting point from which to plan.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

We are Rachel and Matt and we're here to help you adventure more as a family. Read more about us.

Looking For Something?

Popular Posts

40+ Best Road Trip Gifts For Travel Lovers [2024]

The Best Anti Theft Backpacks For Travel [2024]

Family Gap Year: Our Around the World Itinerary

The Perfect Itinerary for a 2 week Northern Territory Road Trip

• Search Search Please fill out this field.
• Budgeting & Savings

The Cost of a Road Trip Across the United States

Taking a road trip across the United States offers an alternative to flying that can be more fun and, sometimes, less expensive. If your point of origin and destination are not located near major airports that offer an abundance of cheap flights, then the price of an airline ticket can be steep. Although oil prices affect both flying and driving costs, their correlation with the price of filling up your vehicle is much more pronounced. With the price of oil low, it might be a good time to get behind the wheel and explore the United States.

The following analysis compares the cost of a road trip from New York City to Los Angeles five years ago, in 2015, to the cost of making the same trip in 2020. Expenses considered include gas, food, and lodging.

Key Takeaways

• When gas prices are low, it's an especially good time to take a driving trip.
• The cost of a hypothetical road trip from New York to Los Angeles did not change materially from 2015 to 2020—because the decrease in gas prices compensated for increases in food and lodging.

New York to Los Angeles covers 2,800 miles. Even if you're driving a hybrid, the trip requires many stops at gas stations to fill up. To make things simple, assume that you are driving a Toyota Camry, which gets about 35 miles per gallon on the highway and 25 in the city. Since the trip is almost all on the highway, also assume that you'll get 35 miles per gallon. In this case, the trip requires 80 gallons of gas.

The price of gas varies in different parts of the country, so national averages must suffice to estimate fuel costs for a cross-country trip. In March 2015, the average cost for a gallon of regular-grade gasoline was $2.79. As of March 2020, its average cost was $2.17.   Therefore, the cost of gas to drive from New York to Los Angeles in a Camry had dropped from $223.20 to $173.60.

Food Prices

The cost of food can vary greatly on a cross-country trip. Stopping for meals at expensive steakhouses, for instance, imposes much steeper costs than packing coolers full of sandwiches and making an occasional splurge at McDonald's.

Regardless of whether you are fine dining or filling your belly on a budget, food costs in the United States are 5.76% higher in 2020 versus 2015, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.  

Assuming a seven-day drive—easily enough time to get from New York to Los Angeles and make some stops along the way—and three meals per day at a base price of $10 per meal, your food costs for the trip rose from $210 in 2015 to $222.09 in 2020.

Lodging Prices

The biggest determinant of lodging prices is how you pace the trip. Putting the pedal to the metal and rotating drivers so that you make progress around the clock and arrive in two days without stopping yields lower lodging costs than stopping at landmarks every day and turning in for a good night's sleep.

For an apples-to-apples comparison from 2015 to 2020, again consider a seven-day trip in which you spend six nights at hotels. The average hotel room cost 120 per night in March 2015 and $126 per night in March 2020.   Your lodging costs, then, increased from $720 to $756.

Frugal cross-country road-trippers can mitigate lodging costs by staying at discount motel chains, such as Motel 6, or camping along the way. You can control what you pay for lodging to a large degree by choosing your accommodations carefully.

Total Trip Costs

Adding up the cost of gas, food, and lodging, a typical road trip from New York to Los Angeles actually has decreased slightly in price, from $1,159.20 to $1,151.69 between 2015 and 2020. A moderate decrease in gas prices more than canceled out slight increases in food and lodging costs.

Again, dozens of variables exist that determine the cost of a road trip across the United States, and they change every year. The analysis above considers a hypothetical trip with a familiar starting and ending point and uses broad averages for common costs incurred along the way. The most important takeaway is that the cost of a road trip did not change materially from 2015 to 2020. When gas prices are low, it is a good time to drive or ride, around the United States.

Automobile Association of America. " National Gas Price Average at Cheapest Level Since 2016 ."

Food Inflation Calculator. "Prices for Food, 2015-2020."

Statista. " Monthly average daily rate of United States hotels from 2011 to 2020 ."

• Terms of Service
• Editorial Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Your Privacy Choices

Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

How Much Does It Cost To Travel In The USA?

Last updated: April 19, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 40 Comments

We’ve been lucky enough to travel a fair bit in the United States, and one of the questions that we’re always asked is – how much does it cost to travel in the USA? Particularly on the kind of trips we do, which tend to be self-drive road trips like Route 66 or across the deep south of the USA .

Well, today I’m going to see if I can help you figure out how much it will cost you to travel in the USA, so you can budget for your own trip accordingly.

A few things to keep in mind. In reality, this kind of question is much like asking “how long is a piece of string”, because, the answer really is – it depends. If you want to rock luxury hotels and fine dining, your budget is naturally going to be a little different to someone looking for budget eats and motel stays.

In addition, prices vary depending on location, with major cities like San Francisco and New York always going to be more expensive options.

Thankfully, the USA has a wide range of options to suit most tastes, and is still a country that can be travelled enjoyably on a relatively low budget. In this post, I’ll be sharing some budget ranges to give you an idea of what to spend, plus some quick and easy ways to save money as you go.

This budgeting guide is going to focus more on a self-drive road trip as I believe that’s the best way to experience America. It gives you the flexibility to plan your own itinerary, stop when and where you want, and experience as much (or as little!) as you want each day.

If you’ve not driven in the USA before, don’t worry, I’ve put together some tips for driving in the USA .

Let’s look at each of the key areas where you’re likely to spend money on your trip in the USA, and see how the costs work out.

How much does it cost to travel in the US?

In summary, you should look to budget between $75 and $300 per person per day for travel in the USA. This amount will vary depending on your travel style, where in the US you travel, and which sights you want to see.

We have split this post into the main costs for travel in the USA, which are:

• Accommodation
• Sight-seeing

For each section, we’re going to give you an overview of budget, mid-range and high end prices, followed by some tips for how to save money on each category. Let’s get started.

1. Accommodation Costs for Travel in the USA

Accommodation is definitely going to be one of the main costs associated with your US trip, and not one you can easily avoid unless you buy a tent or rent a campervan – and even then you’ll likely have to pay campsite fees.

The good news is that the US has a range of accommodation options to meet pretty much every niche, from cosy B&B’s to budget motels to hostels to campsites to high end palaces of modern luxury.

Price of Accommodation in the USA

• Budget : You’re generally looking in the region of $50 – $100 per night for two people for a private room in a budget hotel or motel
• Mid-range: You can get very reasonable accommodation for $100 – $200 per night for two people for a private room
• High-end: The sky’s the limit, but $300+ is your starting point I’d suggest

Money Saving Tips for Accommodation in the USA

Use budget chains..

Many budget travellers turn to hostels when looking for cheap accommodation. This is definitely an option in the US, especially if you are travelling on your own, but in our experience travelling as a couple, the best value was found with low-cost hotels & motels – chains like Red Roof Inn or Motel 6 .

You’ll find these clustered around Interstate Exits, as well as on the outskirts of most towns and cities. It’s not going to be a glamorous experience, but in our experiences, you’ll usually get a bed, some form of breakfast, your own bathroom, and free parking.

Book online.

For the majority of our hotel and motel stays, we found the best prices online, usually using booking.com . In many cases, we have arrived at a property, asked for their rates, compared against those online, and then asked if they were willing to price match.

In nearly every case, the desk clerk would just tell us to book via the online site. Savings could be substantial, so for the five minute inconvenience this was definitely worth it.

Book with free cancellation and recheck the price

This tip has actually saved us money a number of times. If you book a property with free cancellation well in advance of your trip, it is well worth checking the price again a few times as your trip nears.

We’ll sometimes find that properties reduce their prices closer to our trip date based on demand, and so we can cancel and rebook at the lower price. Of course, this doesn’t always work, but it is worth keeping in mind.

Look at casinos.

Another option to think about are casinos. Many of these offer relatively good value mid-range rooms in the hopes that you’ll spend big on the casino floor – if you can avoid that temptation then you might end up saving.

They also usually have cheap dining & drinking options, again, in the hopes that you’ll spend your money gambling.

Use alternative sites.

Finally, don’t forget to think outside the box. There’s a huge range of accommodation options available beyond the normal – check out websites like Vrbo to widen your scope of options and (potentially) reduce your costs.

For lots more options, check out my guide to AirBnB alternatives to flesh out your digital toolkit for booking the best value accommodation!

2. Transport Costs for Travel in the USA

A road trip in America is going to require a car. There are of course other ways to get around the US, including trains, buses and planes, but that’s for a different post. In this post I’m going to focus specifically on travelling by car.

For more tips on driving in the US, including car rental requirements and driving advice, check out my tips for driving in the USA post.

Also, bear in mind that car rental costs are significantly higher if you’re under 25, as the insurance premiums that rental companies charge are much higher under this age group.

Price of Car Rental in the USA

• Budget : $150 – $400 per week for a budget car that will comfortably fit two people and luggage
• Mid-range: $400 – $600 for a mid-range car that will easily fit four people and luggage
• High-end: $600+ for a high end car such as a convertible, large SUV or luxury vehicle

Note – car rental prices can vary greatly depending on demand and time of year. If you are looking to hire a vehicle, we recommend searching for your car rental on Discover Cars here . They compare a range of providers, including the biggest names in the business, so you can find the best deal for your trip.

Money Saving Tips for Car Rental

Don’t book for city use ..

If you’re hiring a car, only hire it for the time period you need. If you’re flying in and out of a city, in most cases you’re unlikely to need the car until you leave the city, so don’t spend money you don’t need to on rental or overpriced city parking fees.

Instead, save money by renting for the day you leave the city, and return on the day you get back to the city.

Take advantage of weekly rates.

Be aware that rates vary depending on if you are hiring by the day or by the week. You can score significant savings on longer term rentals when the weekly rates kick in, plus many car-hire companies appreciate longer term rentals and may give you a free upgrade to a roomier car.

In our experience, we always book the smallest car and end up driving something which by European standards anyway would be a mid-range vehicle – plenty of room for the two of us and luggage!

Book with free cancellation and recheck rates

Similar to hotels, car rental prices vary depending on demand and season. We sometimes find that as our trip gets closer, the prices drop. So if you book a trip well in advance, we recommend booking a car with free cancellation and checking from time to time to see if you can rebook at a cheaper rate.

Avoid airport surcharges .

This can be harder to do, but you should be aware that the convenience of picking a car up at an airport location often carries a hefty surcharge.

Take a bit of time to compare rental fees for city locations and the airport locations, and if it’s easy enough to get from the airport to a city centre pick up, it may be worth the savings.

Avoid peak times.

This tip pretty much applies to every section in this guide. If you visit a location during a key event when demand is high, such as New Orleans during Mardi Gras , or Albuquerque during the International Balloon Fiesta , you will find that prices can be significantly higher across the board for everything from accommodation to car hire.

Obviously, if you need to visit during these times, then go for it, but be aware that costs will be higher, and you will need to plan that into your budget accordingly. If you don’t want to attend these events, try to avoid visiting when they’re happening.

Avoid additional fees.

One way that car rental companies make a great income is by trying to get you to sign up to various additional services, including additional insurance and damage waiver fees. These are usually very expensive – sometimes even more so than the car rental itself!

We definitely don’t suggest you skip out on necessary insurance, however, there are more cost effective ways of obtaining peace of mind. Many credit cards, for example, include this cover if you pay for the car rental using their service. There are also third party websites that offer things like excess coverage, CDW and so on.

For more information on these, check out my driving in the USA tips post .

It’s important to remember that most car rental agencies will use high pressure sales tactics when you go to pick up the car to try and get you to sign up to these insurance offers, which make up a significant part of their bottom line.

If you are prepared for this in advance, and know exactly what cover you already have, you will be able to get through this process without spending more money than you have to.

Avoid one-way trips.

If you’re doing a road trip, it is usually tempting to start in one location and finish in another. Unfortunately, car rental firms often levy a fee for one-way rentals, which can make this a costly idea. This isn’t always the case, depending on the popularity of the route, but it is very common.

Obviously, in many cases you won’t be able to avoid this, but it’s worth bearing in mind, and also worth noting that many online price comparison sites fail to take this into account when providing quotes.

Buy and sell back.

This certainly isn’t for everyone, but if you are travelling in the USA for a prolonged period of time (more than three months I’d suggest), then buying a car might be more cost effective than a long term rental, depending on factors like insurance.

It’s definitely more hassle, and you will need both a US address for the registration documents and to purchase car insurance. When I travelled in New Zealand and in Australia, I bought and sold a car for both of those trips, which was a very worthwhile investment.

Look at Alternative Rental Options

If you want to rent a campervan or something similar, rather than going to the major brands who will be fairly expensive, take a look at a service like RVShare . This company offer peer to peer campervan rental – a bit like the AirBnB of RV rental, meaning the costs can be a lot lower. Similar options include Outdoorsy and RVEzy .

If you’d prefer to rent from an RV rental company, use Motorhome Republic to compare prices across the major companies in the USA.

Shop for the cheapest gas.

That car you rent needs fuel to get it moving – the good news being fuel in the US is relatively cheap. Prices can vary a lot from gas station to gas station, so shop around for the cheapest deals.

Generally, gas stations at Interstate exits are more expensive. Also, be aware that prices can vary wildly between states, so if you’re doing something like Route 66 , where you cross a lot of states, check prices using a site or app like GasBuddy to see where you can save.

If you are doing a road trip and want to budget your gas, the AAA website has a really handy gas cost calculator for doing just that.

We also have a regularly updated page of travel resources that lists our favourite tools for finding the best prices on everything from flights to car rental to accommodation.

3. Sightseeing Costs when Travelling in the USA

On to the fun stuff! Obviously, the kind of sightseeing you choose to do will vary depending on your interest, but I’d guess you might be interested in attractions, museums, national parks and that sort of thing.

Costs for Sightseeing in the USA

Obviously this is up to you, but we’d suggest you budget in the region of $10 – $75 per person per day for sightseeing costs. Here are some ways to save.

Money Saving Tips for Sightseeing

Get a city attraction pass..

If you’re planning on doing a lot of sightseeing in one city, then see if you can find a city attraction pass for that city. For example, the CityPass company covers a range of destinations, plus there’s the New York , and New Orleans passes amongst others.

These are usually very cost-effective ways of seeing a lot of attractions, and sometimes include public transport and skip the line access as well.

Buy a Parks Pass.

One of the best things about the USA are its incredible National Parks . These usually have an entry fee, however if you’re going to be visiting a number of parks, you can save by investing in an Annual Pass .

These represent excellent value for money, with one $80 fee covering you and up to three other people in your vehicle for entry into over 2,000 parks across the US for a year.

Find free days.

There are a lot of free museums and other attractions throughout the USA. What you might not know is that even the paid attractions often have “free entry” days, where you can visit for free.

These can fall on a particular day of the month, or may line up with a national “free museum” day. Just use the internet to search for the city and attraction type you’re interested in to see if you can score free entry.

Book in advance.

This doesn’t always save you money, but it can save you time, and time is also important! Many popular attractions allow you to book in advance, skipping the long lines and letting you get straight in.

You’re paying for your trip, so you might as well make the most out of the time you have!

Use concessions.

If you fit into a specific category such as age group, disability, military service or membership of an organisation, you may qualify for either a discount or even free entry at many locations. Just research in advance so you know what you’re entitled to.

4. Food Costs in the USA

Food! There’s so much choice in the USA, so basically whatever you’re into, and even if you’ve got allergies or intolerances, you’re probably going to be able to eat well wherever you go, and at a reasonable price.

Price of Food in the USA

• Budget : $5 – $10 per person per meal at a fast food restaurant, food truck or diner
• Mid-range: $15 – $35 per person per meal at a reasonable restaurant, gastropub
• High-end:  $50+ per person per meal at a nice restaurant

Money Saving Tips for Food in the USA

Split portions..

Food potions in the USA tend to be very generous. So generous in fact, that when Jess and I eat out, we normally split a main (known as an entrée) between us, and it’s still more than enough food.

Many restaurants will happily split a meal for you, or at least give you an extra plate. Sometimes there will be a “split charge”, but this should be clearly marked on the menu.

If you order too much food and can’t eat it all, don’t waste it! Nearly every restaurant will be happy for you to take your food with you – just ask for a box, and they’ll be happy to provide.

In the UK, this is not a common practice, so can feel a bit weird, but I assure you, it’s very normal in the USA, even at high end restaurants!

Cook your own food.

Definitely a great way to save on food costs is to cook your own food. Many vacation rentals for example come with the basic cooking essentials like oil and spices, and since they’ll usually come with an equipped kitchen, you can definitely save by making your own meals from time to time!

Find the deals.

Even if you’re going to splurge, you can still save money by keeping an eye out for deals. Some restaurants do two-for-one deals, have happy hour prices at off-peak times, or offer daily specials. Take advantage of these to save money.

Don’t forget the fast-food options.

Sure, these might not be the healthiest of options, but if you’re in a pinch for a budget meal, or just can’t find anywhere else that’s open, fast-food restaurants like McDonald’s or Subway can be a cost-effective way to get a filling meal.

Skip the drinks.

One of the nicest things about eating in the USA is that you nearly always will be presented with glasses of water when you sit down. If you can, just stick to water, as it’s free! If you do want to drink, be aware that soft drinks and coffee often come with unlimited refills, so take advantage of that.

If you’re happy with water though – stick to it, you can definitely save money by skimping on the drinks – particularly the fancy chain coffee options!

Don’t forget tax and tips.

Not a money saving tip – but something to definitely be aware of. If you’ve not travelled in the US before, you might get caught out by the fact that taxes aren’t generally included on the prices of items – instead they’re added when the bill is totalled.

If you’re used to sales tax being included (such as in Europe), this might present a bit of bill shock! In addition, tipping is very normal in the USA for service, with tip amounts generally ranging from from 10 – 20%. Sometimes this will be added automatically, but usually it’s at your discretion.

In Summary: How Much Does it Cost to Travel in the USA?

For two people travelling in the US, I’d estimate a cost per person per day as follows.

• Budget: $50 – $150
• Mid-range: $150 – $300
• High-end: $300 (and up!)

Don’t forget to add on the cost of getting to the USA as well, plus any visa fees you might have to pay (depending on your nationality).

I have to say, the USA is definitely one of our favourite countries to travel, and particularly, to road trip in. There’s so much to see and do, really something for everyone, plus it’s relatively safe and easy to travel in.

The other good news is that it’s not that expensive either, at least, if you don’t want it to be.

Final Money Saving Tip for Travelling in the USA!

One of the easiest ways to save money on a road trip in the USA, and anywhere really, is to travel as a group. Many of the costs are fixed, such as car hire, fuel and accommodation, and by having more of you, you can split the costs and reduce the per person price significantly.

A group of 2-4 people travelling together in one vehicle and sharing accommodation is definitely more cost effective for a road trip than one person going it alone!

Further reading

We’ve put together a lot of content on our travels in the USA, plus we have some favourite go-to resources when we’re planning our adventures. Here’s the best of those resources to help you plan your own trip:

• We’ve written guides to things to do in a number of cities across the USA, including things to do in San Antonio , things to do in Savannah ,  things to do in Albuquerque , things to do in Cambria , things to do in Santa Fe  and things to do in Santa Cruz , to name but a few. See our complete USA content here .
• We have a detailed guide to spending 2 days in New York 
• Our guide to planning a Route 66 Trip , as well as a comprehensive two week Route 66 itinerary
• An awesome Deep South USA itinerary
• A planning guide for a Pacific Coast Highway Trip
• An awesome two week USA road trip itinerary , which includes Las Vegas, California and the Grand Canyon
• Tips for Driving in the USA
• A Detailed California Road Trip Itinerary
• Nomadic Matt’s How to Travel the World on $50 a Day – a must read for any budget minded traveller!
• We have a guide to  hiking Havasu Falls if you’re looking for an epic hike!
• Our guide to doing laundry when traveling – hand-washing your own clothes can be a good way save a bit of money on your trip!
• Lonely Planet’s guide to the Best Road Trips in the USA – lots of inspiration here
• Looking for more road trip inspiration? Check out our guide to the world’s best road trips for more ideas, which covers both the USA and the rest of the world.

And that sums up our post on the cost of travel in the USA! Hopefully you found it useful – as always, let us know your thoughts, tips and suggestions in the comments below!

Enjoyed this post? Why not share it!

There are 40 comments on this post

Please scroll to the end to leave a comment

Mark Credle says

2nd January 2022 at 4:46 am

I really want to visit many places of USA because I always have heard that it is a place of amazing natural beauties. But it would be great if I can get any suggestion about where the travel cost would be reasonable.

Laurence Norah says

2nd January 2022 at 10:54 am

The cost definitely varies depending where you are in the USA. Larger, more popular cities like New York and San Francisco for example tend to be more expensive, especially when it comes to accommodation and sight seeing. As you head to less well known cities and smaller towns, the cost will go down. The definition of reasonable definitely varies by person, but hopefully this gives you a starting point.

Have a great trip!

Barna Hamilton says

29th August 2019 at 5:13 pm

We thought your blog was genial. Me and two friends have six weeks to drive cross the USA starting July 17 2020. We want start and finish in Washington DC, where we have family.

Do you have a ready itinerary? That would be great. We most want visit the National Parks( no city except San Francisco), specially Yellowstone, Yosimite, Grand Canyon. Your suggestions would be fantastic.

30th August 2019 at 6:05 am

Thanks very much. We have some itineraries but not for six weeks across the USA. We have a three week USA deep south road trip, a 2 week route 66 road trip, and a 2 week California road trip. But we don’t have something as you describe at the moment. However we do have lots of USA content on both our sites which should help you plan!

https://independenttravelcats.com/category/travel-destinations/united-states/ https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/category/destinations/north-america/usa/

30th August 2019 at 8:22 am

Thank you very much. We will study this with attention.

Jennifer says

8th July 2019 at 5:18 pm

My friend invited me to visit them for a week and will be staying with them for the whole duration. I am wondering how much pocket money do I need to prepare for traveling there. Currently I’m staying in Bahrain.

Hope you can help me have an idea how much I need to prepare for it.

9th July 2019 at 3:36 pm

Hi Jennifer,

It’s really up to you, depending on what sort of activities you will be doing, like sights you will be seeing, as well as any meals you want to have out. There’s no easy way to answer this question I’m afraid, it’s a very personal thing!

Enjoy your trip,

3rd July 2019 at 7:42 pm

Im a Filipina nurse working in Singapore right now. I want to travel in the Usa for around 10 days and visit my friend in California and in Texas. Could it be possible that I can come to Texas from California? How much will it cost me going to Texas from Cali and what’s the cheapest way as Im looking at flights costing around 1000 usd as well. Thanks

3rd July 2019 at 9:06 pm

I’m guessing the cheapest way would be to take the long distance bus, although that would obviously take longer than flying. Try the Greyhound website. $1000 seems quite expensive for a flight though – are you booking during a holiday weekend or other busy time of year? Flights in the US are not usually that expensive. Have you tried using Kiwi.com or the Southwest website?

Raheel says

12th June 2019 at 10:24 pm

Hi, Thank you for the informative post. I alongwith my spouse and 2 kids, plan to visit US in Nov 19 for 25 days. Can you please mention which all states should i visit in this span of time and roughly how much would it cost us … e.g 8 grand or 10 grand.

Thanking you in advance. Raheel

12th June 2019 at 10:31 pm

My pleasure. So your question is definitely tough to answer because it will very much depend on your travel style and interests. Some people like to go quickly and try to fit as much in as possible, other like to travel more slowly. We’ve done both in the USA – for example, we travelled all eight states of Route 66 in two weeks. But we’ve also spent a whole month exploring just one state at a time.

Budget wise it will also vary. November is not an expensive month generally, although the Thanksgiving weekend can be a bit more pricey. The budget will vary depending on the type of accommodation (from budget motels to 5* luxury!), and whether you visit expensive cities like New York and San Francisco, or spend more time in smaller towns.

Finally, in November, the northern states will be quite cold. So if you would prefer to be warm, I’d recommend staying in the more southern states. I’d suggest perhaps exploring California, Arizona, Utah and Nevada if you prefer warmth and landscapes. Alternatively, you could follow our deep south itinerary if you love history, culture and food:

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/usa-deep-south-road-trip-itinerary/

This post should help you figure out the costs, just take the costs for each day at your preferred travel style for transport, accommodation and food, and add it together 🙂

Lasse Trans says

16th April 2019 at 11:13 pm

” I have a dream” a vice man once said, and I have a dream to – My wife and I would like to take our 2 adult children and their spouses to the US for 10 – to 14 days depending on flight schedule in 2020 a total in 6 adults. we are planning to se Niagara Falls, White house and walk to Capitol, and some kind on sport while wee are there. We have been thinking about renting a RV but also like staying in mid range hotels – We are a camper family and have always been, but looking into prices, would mid range hotels be a better deals for us? How far from Washington should we stay to have affordable prices? Can you recommend a good steakhouse also with affordable prices and US size steaks? Thank you for a informative site and sharing with us.

17th April 2019 at 11:41 am

So it’s hard to say exactly, but when I have done the math on this sort of thing before, it usually doesn’t work out any cheaper to do a trip like this by camper compared to staying in hotels. It’s more of a lifestyle decision than a budget decision. I’d also say that if you want to see cities more than wilderness, then hotels will make much more sense, as city centre campsites are few and far between!

Of course, there are different factors to consider. You might find that with six of you that short term apartment rentals will be cheaper than hotels. It also depends how many rooms you need in the hotels – I’m guessing it will be three separate rooms.

I haven’t visited Washington, but I would think there are plenty of choices downtown for hotels. Staying far out of the centre to save money can be a false economy – you end up losing time in travel and if you drive, you will have to pay for parking. So I would try to find something central that is also cost effective.

We like to use booking.com for this sort of search. They have some really useful filters, so when you put your dates in you can filter by price, average guest rating, number of rooms you need, and they also have apartments.

I did a search, and there are a few fairly well rated options in the centre that come in at under £150 a night for two people sharing (this will of course depend on your dates). You can see some results here .

Some options include this Holiday Inn , this Pod Hotel , and this B&B .

Unfortunately having not travelled in Washington I don’t have a steakhouse recommendation for you.

Hopefully this helps though – let me know if you have any more questions and we will try to help out. Otherwise, have a great trip, and let us know how it goes!

23rd March 2019 at 9:33 pm

Hi firstly thanks for the great article. I am taking my family to America in a tear and a bits time starting in New york and ending in Las Vegas a 1 month road trip. My question having paid for flights and the car rental if i have 10000 dollars as fuel, sleeping and gas money with some entertainment inbetween would this be enough or should i get more?

24th March 2019 at 12:37 pm

Hi David! My pleasure, thanks for stopping by 😀

So your budget works out to around $333 a day. I would say that this should be fine, however, it depends on the size of your family and if you need separate rooms everywhere (family rooms can work out to be more cost effective). It also depends on what level of luxury you want of course. Hotels / motels can be had from $50 – $150 in the budget to midrange category across the US, but also for much more. So generally I would say that you should be fine, but if you plan on a lot of fine dining, more high end hotels, and pricier attractions – or if you are a larger group – then you might need a bit more.

26th November 2018 at 4:17 pm

hi, Next year i have plan to visit Louisville, KY. any suggestions which place i need to visit?

27th November 2018 at 11:17 am

We’ve not been to Louisville, so we don’t have any suggestions sadly. We know there’s the Kentucky Derby, but that’s about it!

Sorry we can’t be of more help, but have a great trip anyway!

26th July 2018 at 11:03 am

This is by far the most helpful information suited to what we want to do in the US we have found so far. Thankyou for posting. Hope you enjoyed NZ. Shaun and Sarah

28th July 2018 at 4:12 pm

Awesome Shaun & Sarah, I’m so pleased you found it useful! I loved NZ, spent a whole year there and have a hankering to return!

25th July 2018 at 6:46 am

Very informative blog, now i am clear in my mind what i want and how. I plan to visit US in this fall i.e October with my parents. both are in 60s and never been to US, itinerary is very important for me considering i dont want my parents to get fatigued or loss energy while travelling interstate only. I plan to visit New York, Washington DC and Florida all three of them on east coast (my choices are more focused towards my parents taste).

My major concern is budget and how to travel interstate, its not feasible for us to hire a car and drive across. can you advise on mode of transportation. Also how much US dollars will be required for a budget trip comprising of two-three disney theme parks, Niagara falls, two- three national parks, visiting landmarks, towers. Also Halal food options in these three cities

25th July 2018 at 9:58 am

Thanks very much. From the post you should be able to put together your own budget depending on your level of comfort. For transport, I’d suggest looking into either the train (Amtrak) or long distance bus services like Greyhound. Another option is of course to fly, but this will likely be the most expensive option. For your specific needs, I’d suggest looking up the attractions and the various entry fees they charge so you can come up with a budget and an idea of costs. I also have to say that I have no idea regarding Halal food options, but tools like Yelp and Google Maps should be able to assist with finding great options with reviews from other travellers.

I hope this helps and that you have a wonderful trip!

Best, Laurence

2nd August 2018 at 9:22 am

For the halal food, you can use use zabiha website to search for the halal place to eat 🙂

4th August 2018 at 7:10 pm

Thank you Sofia 🙂 will definitely use it

Mwangala simioti says

15th July 2018 at 6:59 pm

Im planning a trip to the usa by the end of this year…Thanks for your detailed information,it has really helped me.

15th July 2018 at 7:13 pm

My pleasure! Have a great trip 😀

Mona Ruiters says

4th July 2018 at 11:15 am

Your write up is very informative and helpful. I am from South Africa and my Fiance and I are planning a trip to California in April 2019. We would like to do a road trip and visit LA, San Francisco and Las Vegas. Would you be able to advise on the best route to take and how much time to allow to see as much as possible of most of the things you have mentioned in your write up. We have no idea where to start and which route to drive, this will be out first visit to USA so it is all very new to us. Your advice would be highly appreciated.

Thanks Mona

4th July 2018 at 11:21 am

Thanks very much Mona!

I’m not sure how long you are visiting for, but my suggestion would be to start in San Francisco, work down the Pacific Coast Highway to LA, and then head across to Las Vegas via Joshua Tree National Park and Death Valley. I have a detailed two week California Road Trip itinerary here:

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/two-week-california-road-trip-itinerary/

I’d basically advise following that until Death Valley, and then heading over to Vegas 🙂 10-14 days would be my recommended amount of time. I can also recommend checking out my guide to driving in the USA – this kind of trip is best experienced as a self-drive experience 😀

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/tips-for-driving-in-usa/

have a great trip, and let me know if you have any more questions!

20th April 2018 at 11:17 pm

i want to travel to USA

22nd April 2018 at 10:17 am

I hope you make it happen 😀

Belinda says

25th February 2018 at 2:01 pm

Fantastic news. Loved reading all the details. I am from Australia and am planning a trip for 4. We are flying to New York for a few days and then flying to Jacksonville Florida for a few weeks. We have decided to hire a car and do some travelling from there. All your information will be so helpful. Thanks

25th February 2018 at 2:03 pm

Hi Belinda!

My pleasure, have an awesome trip 😀 Road tripping in the states is so much fun!

19th January 2018 at 3:29 pm

Very informative and helpful, I am a student living in the US since a year and want to start exploring it. This is the first article I’m going through and its wonderful! Please let me know if you have any specific ideas for people living in US to explore it in a better way..

19th January 2018 at 3:56 pm

Thanks very much Swati 🙂 We have a lot of content about the USA on both our sites, you can see them here: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/category/destinations/north-america/usa/ and here: https://independenttravelcats.com/category/travel-destinations/united-states/

Do you have any areas you particularly want to visit? We usually travel by car as we find it’s the easiest way to get around and to see everything we want to see, but of course public transport is an option.

Minimalist Journeys says

24th August 2017 at 11:58 pm

Good detailed post. For every country we visit, we provide a consolidated per person per day cost – so this is a great complement to ours. Will definitely provide a link to it for our readers wanting to explore USA.

Maria Salomonsen says

26th December 2016 at 4:47 pm

What a great post!! I am in the midst of planning a 6 week solo road trip in the east of USA and this is just the thing for me. I spent 9 days in California earlier this year, so I have that to lean on as well, but this is just so, super useful..!

Mark Hughes says

20th December 2016 at 7:20 pm

Very comprehensive overview of travel costs in the USA. I especially enjoyed the links to alternate lodging options. The only area that I would potentially appreciate more information would be in the transportation area. I think there are great options to see the country via bus or train. I just saw a $219 train fare from NY to Los Angeles online yesterday. I see that there are various train passes that can be purchased as well. Googling bus deals, it looks like a lot of opportunities to save while you see the country. I hope you don’t see this as criticism of your article. I enjoyed reading it tremendously. (I live in the States but an looking to move to Europe so I generally view that area more for deals). I appreciate that the information you provide is professionally presented by you. I always look forward to an update! Thank you! Mark

19th January 2018 at 3:58 pm

HI Mark – no worries! To be honest, we haven’t travelled around the USA by public transport a great deal, so it’s not really an area of expertise for us. We do want to try it out though so we can report back, and will certainly update the article if and when we do so!

Kayi Brixius says

20th December 2016 at 2:59 pm

For air travel in the USA, I would say make sure you look for deals. Frontier airlines has great deals. Book it yourself on their website.

19th January 2018 at 3:59 pm

Thanks Kayi – good tip! We also have a list of useful travel resources on the site to help people find the best deals when travelling, you can find that here: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/travel-resources

Natalie says

13th December 2016 at 6:31 am

Thanks for the information. I don’t have a plan to stay in USA so far, but if I do., I’ll use some of your tips. Thanks

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Let me know when there's a reply to my comment (just replies to your comment, no other e-mails, we promise!)

Subscribe to our monthly Newsletter where we share our latest travel news and tips. This also makes you eligible to enter our monthly giveaways!

We only ask for your e-mail so we can verify you are human and if requested notify you of a reply. To do this, we store your data as outlined in our privacy policy . Your e-mail will not be published or used for any other reason other than those outlined above.

• North America
• Tips & Inspiration

How To Go On a Road Trip in the USA Using Your 3 Month Visa

For many it’s the ultimate dream: wind blowing in your hair, the open road stretched out in front of you, the perfect road trip playlist blasting from the speakers. It’s the stuff of fantasies (and many a Hollywood movie)…a road trip in the USA!

Citizens from many countries are allowed a 3 month visa to the USA, and it makes sense that you’d want to see as much of the country as possible in that time. The only obstacle is that the United States of America is a HUGE country. And that’s not even counting Alaska and Hawaii, which require even more of an effort to get to. For the purposes of this article, I will be focusing on the “Lower 48,” and how you can go on the ultimate USA road trip in 3 months.

First, a warning: Even with three months, you will not see everything. Some of these itineraries are a surefire way to make sure you see almost nothing but the road in front of you, even though you are technically seeing “more.” I am always an advocate for slow travel, but if you truly want to see as much of the USA as possible during your three months, it is possible. I recommend seeing less in order to see more. Possibly focusing on only one region instead of the entire country. Here are a variety of itineraries to suit any preference.

The Whirlwind USA Tour

This itinerary is perfect for someone who really wants to say they saw the “entire USA.” Of course, seeing everything in 3 months is simply impossible, but this is about as close as you’re going to get! With the exception of Alabama (sorry Alabama!) and West Virginia (sorry West Virginia!) this itinerary allows you to at least drive through each state.

Please keep in mind that this itinerary is NOT for the faint of heart. It requires the adrenaline to get up early most days in order to cram in the maximum amount of sightseeing and driving into a day. Much of your time (if not most) will be spent inside your moving vehicle. If you’re cool with that, and just want to say you saw all that you could see, go for it!

Urban Explorer

The Urban Explorer Itinerary is perfect for those of you who enjoy a taste of the city life. You will still be driving through rural and scenic areas, but with the benefit of spending a few days in each destination. This is still quite a hectic trip, but with more than one night in each destination, you can see more of each city.

The cities on this itinerary offer everything from historical sights to world class restaurants. From urban street art to museums with beloved artifacts. See sights you’ve been dreaming about your entire life like the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, the Hollywood sign in Los Angeles, and the Statue of Liberty in New York City. The beauty of this itinerary is that these cities are always changing. You may just discover the next hottest thing before everyone else does!

National Parks

It really wasn’t until researching all of the National Parks to create this itinerary that I realized just how MANY exist in the USA. The National Parks road trip will allow you to re-connect with nature and experience some of the world’s most breath-taking natural wonders.

This road trip is really perfect for those of you renting or buying a camper or RV. You’ll be able to spend the night in nature and wake up to the birds chirping. Many National Parks do require entrance fees, and it also costs money to stay in campgrounds across the country. Visit this website  to find a listing near whatever National Park you want to visit. Keep in mind that if you are traveling during high season [i.e. summer in the Northern Hemisphere] many campgrounds get fully booked in advance. Therefore, if you want to secure a place to sleep it’s worthwhile to book ahead of time. If you desire more flexibility and spontaneity, consider traveling during the off or shoulder seasons.

The Quirky USA route is less of an itinerary and more of a list of some crazy, kooky attractions to see on your USA road trip. Including a few major hubs where everything weird is revered: Austin, Texas and Portland, Oregon come to mind. And it wouldn’t be a Quirky USA road trip without visiting Las Vegas, that strange place where the lines between fantasy and reality are blurred. There are so many small roadside attractions around the country that cater to your desire for kitsch. Looking for the “world’s smallest skyscraper?” You’ll find it in Wichita Falls, Texas. The “world’s largest ball of twine?” Stop by Cawker City, Kansas! And can we talk about the American obsession with planting cars into the ground in a Stonehenge formation? It’s real.

How much money do I need for a 3 month USA road trip?

This really depends on your personal desires for your trip. You can eat out for every meal, splurge on shopping, and spend lots of time in cities (where things are more expensive). Or you can cook your own meals, camp, and take advantage of free activities to cut down on expenses. It also depends on how many people you are traveling with. The more people you travel with, the lower your individual cost is because you can split gas, food, really everything! That said, if you travel with a group that isn’t budget conscious, it could end up being more expensive overall. Here are some money saving tips for your USA road trip:

-Check out the website GasBuddy.com (there is also an app). It will tell you where the closest gas station is based on your location. You can also research current gas prices around the country using their website. Some states, even ones adjacent to each other (looking at you, New York and New Jersey!) have incredibly different prices for gas. Keep in mind that gas prices are always fluctuating.

-If at all possible, try to drive a vehicle that will be economical with fuel. Not only is it better for the environment, but it will save you money on gas over the entirety of your trip.

-When you want to eat out (and I highly encourage it!) you don’t have to stop anywhere fancy. In fact, America is known (for better or worse) as being the land of fast food. While, it’s true, you could roll through a McDonalds drive through (please don’t), there are plenty of other “fast food” options. America is a country of immigrants, so there are tons of foods from around the world to try. Huevos rancheros in California, pupusas in Texas, phở in New York, dim sum in Michigan, the list goes on and on. Of course, if you want something a bit more home grown, you can’t do a USA road trip without stopping at a classic greasy spoon (diner).

-Instead of paying a fee at every National Park that requires one, consider buying an America The Beautiful Pass . The traditional Annual Pass is only $80 and allows you access to “more than 2,000 federal recreation sites.”

-There are some great online resources for finding free or cheap activities in cities around the USA. Some of the best are: TimeOut , Thrillist , and check out this list of ‘163 Free Things To Do In America’s Top Destinations’ on Travel + Leisure .

Some More USA Road Trip Tips:

-Keep in mind that some places you will drive through are very rural. Think: absolutely no one and nothing for miles. That includes gas stations. Always check before passing a gas station that the next one isn’t too far away. This is also where GasBuddy comes in handy.

-Likewise, because of the rural nature of much of the country, cell service will not always be stellar. On a practical level, make sure to have any survival items necessary in your vehicle. Check out this suggested Emergency Kit from the DMV. On a less practical level, you’ll want to download any entertainment before heading off on the road. Don’t rely on your cell service to access Spotify or Podcasts. Download songs and albums offline, and make sure your Podcasts are downloaded, too. You can also opt to go the old-fashioned route and buy some CDs, you retro-chic traveler, you.

-Weather varies drastically around the USA. You could start the day in 80-degree heat, drive into the mountains, and suddenly be in the midst of a blizzard. Always check the weather of where you will be driving that day, and make sure that your vehicle is prepared for anything.

-I won’t pretend to know a whole lot about insurance, but what I do know is that it’s important to have some. Both for your vehicle and for your person. Look into AAA Roadside Assistance for your vehicle and World Nomads Travel Insurance for your person. With the tenuous existence of health insurance in the USA, it is NOT wise to be caught in a bad situation without insurance.

Is Now A Good Time To Take a Road Trip In The USA?

If you want to take a road trip in the USA, but are put off by the current political climate, I completely understand. Where you choose to travel, and spend your hard earned money, is your own personal decision. But I can attempt to help you understand some of the myths surrounding Americans and travel in the USA.

-Despite the negative images of Americans you may have seen in the media as of late, most of us are generally friendly and welcoming to foreigners. In fact, what you may notice is that we Americans are OVERLY friendly to just about everyone. This varies widely by region (you’re not going to see too many smiles in the Northeastern Corridor, which I can say confidently because I am from there), but especially in the South, being friendly is a deeply ingrained way of life. Hospitality is taken very seriously. The majority of interactions you will have are going to be positive, because I truly believe people around the world are generally well-meaning.

-There is no use denying that we have a problem with racism (and many other -isms) in the USA. If you are a person of color thinking of going on a road trip in the USA I understand you may have fear in visiting at this moment. Unfortunately, given the current political climate I can’t say for sure whether your fears are unfounded or not. In cities around the country, you are unlikely to meet with any open hostility (unless you’re a slow walker, in which case, watch out!) More rural areas may be unused to seeing many people of color, and might take an interest in you. This doesn’t mean it will be a negative experience, in fact you may be surprised to find that the overwhelming majority of people will simply be curious about your experience.

There are, however, some very scared people in the USA. They have been led to believe that different = bad and therefore may react to your presence with open hostility. It is up to you and your judgement whether or not you feel comfortable traveling in the USA at this time.

-If you are wondering whether or not you want to spend your money in the USA given the policies that are being promoted by the current administration, I get it. However, I would say that at this point in time it’s more important than ever that people from other countries and Americans interact. Only 36% of Americans hold a valid passport, so sometimes the only interaction they will have with foreigners is when they travel to the USA. And hey, maybe you could even report back to your home country that Americans aren’t ALL like the ignorant buffoon that you see on the television.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

5 reasons to visit belize in 2019, what to expect from the trekamerica mountie tour, let's be social.

The ultimate guide to budget-friendly road trips

Easy ways to lessen the financial burden of traveling and still have a fun and memorable trip

By Amanda Adler

With inflation forcing the cost of gas, food, and entertainment skyward, travelers looking to hit the road may feel overwhelmed trying to stay on budget. But whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or an extended family vacation, you can find low-cost fun no matter where you venture. 

Follow these tips to help you get the most bang for your buck.

Economical accommodations

It’s easy for nightly hotel rates to get out of hand. Rather than choosing a big city hotel, consider one of these money-saving options.

Get comfy camping

Camping can be a great way to save money and truly connect with the place you’re visiting. Car camping is an economical choice that requires very little gear. Pop the hatch of your station wagon or SUV, set up a sleeping bag, and enjoy nights of peaceful relaxation under the stars. It’s an ideal option for solo travelers or couples.

For those looking for a little extra sleeping space, consider investing in a tent. While there’s a wide range of options, you don’t need to break the bank to find something comfortable enough for a twosome to enjoy.

Families traveling with children don’t necessarily need a large RV with all the bells and whistles to get out on the road. A small pop-up camper is a great solution that can be easily pulled by most vehicles and folds down for garage storage.

When it comes to selecting where to stay, options range from free off-grid camping on public lands, to state and national parks, to full-service campgrounds. To make the most of your budget, consider alternating between free and paid sites to save whenever possible.

Insider Tip: If you’ve never camped and want to give it a try before investing in gear, try booking a glamping stay. Many campgrounds, such as KOA resorts, offer cabins and other accommodations for rent, and many have robust amenities, such as pools, playgrounds, on-site activities, nightly campfires, and more. 

Related How to create your own budget-friendly glamping experience

Make it a family affair

Interested in planning a trip to visit family or friends? Couch surfing at a loved one’s house can save you big bucks and helps bring you closer (literally and figuratively) to those you hold most dear. Experience your host’s city through their eyes as you let them play tour guide and show off their favorite haunts.

If you like the idea of visiting with friends and family but have your heart set on another vacation locale, invite the whole gang to join you on the road. Pool your resources to travel together, booking larger suites or multi-family cottages that are less expensive when the cost is split between several parties.

Related The ultimate guide to family road trips

Seek out unique lodging

If you still want all the luxury of staying in a swanky hotel, think outside the box and look for accommodations with unique features to keep your budget in check.

Fans of the TV show Schitt’s Creek fell in love with the small-town antics that took place at the Rosebud Motel. But just as the Rose family worked to bring the well-loved motel up to modern standards, many motels across the nation have recently received a similar glow-up. Retro-chic offerings in cities such as Santa Barbara, Savannah, and beyond offer a trendy place to stay and often boast a relatively budget-friendly price tag compared to hotel options in these sought-after destinations.

Related Welcome to Sharon Springs, a real life Schitt’s Creek in upstate New York

Or, why not make the hotel the main attraction? Booking a stay somewhere with an on-site water park, live shows, or kids club may mean you’re paying a pricier fee up front, but a staycation at this type of resort means you won’t have to pony up even more cash for outside entertainment. 

Frugal food

Eating cheap on the road doesn’t have to mean gas station hot dogs and fast-food dollar menu picks. Be kind to your stomach and your wallet with these tips for eating well on a budget.

Pack a picnic 

Stock a cooler with snacks and drinks, which you can replenish throughout your travels. Include sandwiches, fruits, and healthy fare, or get fancy with a charcuterie board and grown-up beverages to enjoy as you watch the sunset. Seek out scenic spots to enjoy a quiet picnic, such as mountain overlooks, national park pavilions, or lush city parks.

Pick your own produce 

An amazing and inexpensive activity to enjoy is picking fruit. Many blueberry, cherry, apple, and other orchards offer the chance to pluck product straight off the vine, often at a fraction of the price you’d pay in the store. Roadside produce stands and local farmer’s markets also offer the opportunity to get a taste of a region and support local growers.

Eat with locals 

Rather than heading for trendy restaurants or dining on upscale fare, ask locals for suggestions. Some of the best and most authentic eats can be found in dive bars and hidden hole-in-the-wall diners. 

Budget boredom busters

Once you’ve arrived at your destination, you can quickly go broke on entertainment expenses. But you don’t have to spend a lot to have a great getaway.

Fee-free activities

There are plenty of ways to have free fun in almost any destination. Here are a few ideas:

• Enjoy hours of fun at local parks and playgrounds.
• Hit the trails for scenic hikes to waterfalls, rock formations, and other natural wonders.
• Savor historic architecture in charming destinations like New Orleans, Louisiana; Charleston, South Carolina; and San Antonio, Texas.
• Stroll among statues, decorative fountains, and iconic landmarks.
• Hit the beach for days of play or much-needed relaxation.
• Take in public art displays in Brooklyn, New York; Miami, Florida; or another hip metropolis.
• Travel during holidays to enjoy small-town Independence Day parades or charming seasonal decor in quaint downtowns.
• Bring bikes, skateboards, fishing gear, card games, and other activities that you can enjoy once at your destinations.
• Break for roadside attractions along your way, snapping photos with the world’s largest pistachio or larger-than-life dinosaur dioramas.

Insider Tip: Do you have a 4th grader in your family? If so, you’re eligible for a free national park pass .

Related Everything you need to know to plan a national park road trip

Cheap thrills

When it comes time to break out your wallet, think about how to make the most of your spending cash.

• Skip Broadway and take in a community theater performance instead.
• Enjoy a night out at the minor league baseball park or snag tickets for a minor league hockey game to cheer on up-and-coming players.
• Buy tickets online in advance to save money, and don’t be afraid to look for coupons or ask the local visitor center about discounted attractions.
• Savor the simplicity of an open-air drive-in movie theater and pack your own popcorn and candy.

More tips for saving money on a road trip

When finding ways to pinch pennies on the road, here are a few additional questions to keep in mind.

What can I get for free?

Curb expenses by seeking out included freebies. Look for hotels that offer complimentary breakfast or a nighttime reception with drinks. Pass on pricey souvenirs and instead get creative with your keepsakes. Turn cardboard bar coasters or stickers from local establishments into a fun scrapbook, while your kids can take part in free Junior Ranger programs to collect commemorative badges.

How else can I sleep cheap on a road trip?

The general rule for booking accommodations is to either book very early or seek out last-minute deals. Price check lodging in multiple destinations to find the best deal and don’t be afraid to book a room farther outside the city to save even more (including on parking fees, which are generally higher in the city center). 

Many campgrounds, hotels, credit cards, and third-party booking sites will also reward you for your loyalty. Stock up on points by joining various rewards programs to earn deals on future stays. 

How much will my road trip cost?

Many factors determine how much you’re going to spend, but a few tips for stretching your budget include:

• Stay longer at each destination versus hopping from place to place to lock in the best lodging prices.
• Consider destinations close to home to maximize your vacation time and cut down on fuel expenditures.
• Travel during off-peak times and shoulder seasons. Even if you’re restricted when you can travel, you can always visit a summertime hotspot in winter or find a long weekend to enjoy a short getaway to a pricier locale.
• Make sure you’re being realistic about costs. As with any trip, there will be some costs that you can control and others you can’t, so do your best to budget for controlled expenses like gas, meals, admission prices, and nightly rates.

Meet the Author

Amanda Adler

Amanda Adler is a writer who splits her time between traveling the U.S. in her RV and soaking up the air conditioning in her home in Orlando, Florida. While on the road she seeks out national parks, theme parks, kid- and dog-friendly hiking trails, and local businesses that tout their wares as being “craft,” “artisanal” or “bespoke.”

• Related Articles
• Latest Articles

Video: Tips for finding free or low-cost activities on your RV travels

5 one-tank road trips from Portland, Oregon

5 one-tank road trips from Dallas, Texas

The best festivals in the U.S.

What’s the Best AI Trip Planner?

Course: RV Maintenance Made Easy

Get the most inspiring stories from the road sent directly to your inbox..

• Trip guides
• Trip Planner
• Sign up Log in Sign out
• Log in Sign out
• ROADTRIPPERS MEMBERSHIP
• RV RESOURCES

Plan your journey, find amazing places, and take fascinating detours with our app.

We couldn't find an existing Roadtrippers account using that service. Please try signing in with another option or create a new account with Roadpass.

We need your email address to send you trip itineraries and other updates.