Road trips are fun but they can also be expensive without proper financial planning. There are tons of things you get to pass by on the road and the presence of tasty looking restaurants, lively pubs, and colourful souvenir shops can ruin your budget. Here then are tips on how to tone down excessive and unnecessary spending.
Make a Checklist
Having a checklist is really handy prior to your trip. Writing down things and manually going over what to bring along and leave behind, as well as what to pack first and pack last is better compared to just keeping a mental reminder. Since the last two days of preparation are the most hectic, it is possible for you to forget little things like your toothbrush, toiletries, chargers, torch and socks. Imagine the money you can save if you don’t have to stop at the nearest convenience store for the things you could have brought with you.
Pack Some Snacks
Snacking can prevent you from feeling extreme hunger that usually results to overeating. Keeping your stomach filled during hours of non-stop driving can save you from stopping at the nearest drive-through that catches your attention. So before hitting the highway, check your fridge and pantry for available snacks such as some M&Ms, chips, energy drinks, canned coffee and sodas, candies, granola bars, and oatmeal cookies. You can even make your own trail mix by putting a few dried fruits and peanuts into containers and plastic bags.
Book a Budget yet Clean Accommodation
For those who are more comfortable following a solid itinerary, you should consider looking for a good and cheap lodging along the way because you technically can’t experience a “good night’s rest” cramped up in your car. Only stay for the number of hours you need to sleep and remember to leave once you’re awake and ready to go. Doing so can save you from the extra charges on the room and parking. A good and budget friendly alternative for road trip accommodations would be a dependable campervan hire. They are fully equipped and easy to use, especially if you prefer a spontaneous trip.
Track Gas Prices
Petrol is probably the thing you have to worry the most if you’re planning a road trip, especially if it’s for a few days or more. Petrol isn’t cheap, and the more you drive, the more you’re going to need it. While planning a travel route, choose one where the attraction sites are more compact. Hours of interval from one destination to the next will no longer be ideal if you’re on a tight budget. To help you save further, there are various mobile apps that can help you track fuel prices and can provide locations of cheap gas stations in the area. Additionally, there are websites that sell discounted petrol gift cards. Stopping yourself from speeding up and turning off the AC can help you save fuel as well.
Take note of these tips and don’t hesitate to try them out. Remember that great road trips result from smart and practical ways of using your time and money.
