You have finally found the time to make that cross-country trip you have been dreaming about for years, but money is a little tight. Do not let concerns about money prevent you from making this long-awaited trek. There are plenty of ways to cut superfluous costs along the way.
There are a few expenses that have to be taken care of before you can even start thinking about money for gas, food and sleeping accommodations. You have to make sure that your car is in perfect working condition. Get any rattling noises or leaks checked out before you start your journey. After all, if you are on the open road, you never know how close the next repair shop is or how much they are going to charge you.
Even if you take every precaution, there is always a chance that your car could break down. Many insurance companies offer roadside service for an extra fee, or you can sign up for a motor club such as AAA. Keep in mind that a single tow to the nearest gas station or repair shop can cost a few hundred dollars.
Choose your start date wisely. Avoid starting a cross-country jaunt when snowy conditions could cause delays and extra expenses. Late spring and early summer are great times to start your trip. Camping is a great way to save money during your trip, but most people find the idea of sleeping in a tent on cold winter nights very unappealing.
A campsite costs about $10 per night, while a hotel room can set your back at least $40 per night. Based on those numbers, you can see why camping is preferable. However, you may want to sleep in a bed with a roof over your head at some point during your cross-country trip. For those nights when you want to sleep on a mattress, consider staying at a hostel rather than a hotel. Hostels tend to be less expensive, and some even offer a kitchen where you can make your meals. Be sure to make extra and put the leftovers in your cooler for lunch the next day.
If you have ever gone to the grocery store, you know that impulse buys are hard to avoid. That is why you should not plan to go to the grocery store in every city you pass through. Bring a large cooler and stop at the grocery store only once every four or five days. Choose your perishable items wisely, and buy foods that will not spoil in bulk. If you are constantly running into the convenience store for a bag of peanuts or a sports drink, consider buying a big tub of peanuts and a case of sports drinks at the grocery store. Though $2 at this gas station and $3 at that convenience store might not seem like a lot, it adds up very quickly. That is money you could be spending on gas and postcards.
