The Cheapest Way from Point A to Point B!

Ft. Lauderdale to Philly by airplane: 2 hours, 47 minutes. That same trip by car: 22 hours.

Airplanes might be quicker, but the good old-fashioned road trip is definitely better. Hopping in the loaded down car with the windows open, radio blaring, friends laughing and off you all go — set out on a new adventure. That feeling of freedom, however, will only get you so far without a budget. When you’re hungry, tired and the gas gauge is on empty, these resources will get you back on track and save your gang some cash at the same time.

Gas. Two things to remember: 1) Gas is usually cheapest at truck stops, and 2) Drive with fuel economy in mind, and you’ll save on gasoline. Hold a steady speed, use cruise control, and keep you lead-foot under a watchful eye. Generally, if you stay in the highest gear with the engine speeds just over minimum, you will be able to save up to 20% on fuel costs. Your pals will love you for this; the state troopers won’t (unless they already filled their monthly quota)!

Food. An ice chest (with food in it) can save you cash while road-tripping. However, I like to have at least one proper meal from a restaurant. I might have a cheap breakfast in a diner, a sandwich from my cooler for lunch and a light soup & salad dinner from a local café (ok, that’s two – whatever). If you’re only eating from the old Coleman, it won’t be long before you abandon it and eat out for the rest of your meals, which tend to be pretty expensive. Mix it up from the start, and you’ll save money — and friendships!

Lodging. Room rates are always negotiable, and a pleasant conversation with the motel manager can often result in a 10-25% savings off the regular rate. This tends to work better late at night when the place can’t fill rooms. Also, if you’re crazy enough you can sleep in the car at truck stops, and take advantage of their clean, inexpensive showers. I have seen too many horror movies to do this. Good luck with that!

Bonus: Fun Stuff. Locals are a great source for information: they’ll show you the best fishing spots, free parking places, where they shot that horror movie (at the truck stop, I told you), and the cheapest restaurant and bars in town. Talking to them won’t cost you a dime — and making new pals is very rewarding (sometimes)! Also, check out the welcome centers — they are usually staffed by local volunteers, and most have discount coupons for motels and attractions in the area.

A road trip can be one of the most Zen-like things you’ll ever do. You’ll get to really know your buddies (some things you might not want to know) and take in what society doesn’t want you to see: that humans weren’t created to work in cubicles, 40+ hours a week. No, we are supposed to travel the land and discover what it has to offer. That’s the truth!

Most people remember road trips for the rest of their lives. Try saying that for an airplane ride!