Photo by ian dooley on Unsplash
Traveling across America can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but it doesn’t have to cost you a ridiculous amount of money. With fascinating cities, winding mountain roads, quiet desert towns and iconic coastlines of golden sand, the states are a treasure-trove of endless adventures to suit every type of traveler – no matter their budget. The key is knowing where to cut back on spending without losing out on fun and authentic experiences.
Here, we take a look at four ways you can stretch your cash while still enjoying everything America has to offer.
Go off the beaten path
Popular routes like the Pacific Coast Highway and Route 66 are on many people’s bucket lists for good reason, but they are more expensive simply due to them being tourist hotspots. While you should certainly explore all the places you’ve dreamed about, weaving in lesser-known towns and scenic byways like Cherokee Hills allows you to utilize more affordable accommodation, food, and fun, so you can explore for longer.
You’ll also likely find more authentic experiences in places off-the-beaten-path, discovering quirky places with rich history, traditional cuisine, and welcoming locals – without big city pricetags. Don’t shrug off the beauty of free or low-cost activities, either. Simply hiking through a national park is a breathtaking experience that is very budget-friendly, especially if you invest in a seasonal pass.
Travel overnight or share journeys
It’s not always as glamorous, but overnight travel can be a serious money-saver. Long-distance buses or budget-friendly night trains let you cover hundreds of miles while skipping an extra hotel bill. Invest in an Amtrak Rail Pass to visit up to 500 destinations and cruise along to the Rocky Mountains, Sierra Nevada, and major cities like New York and Los Angeles. Bring snacks, a neck pillow, and some noise-cancelling headphones and you may even sleep better than you would in a cheap motel.
Whether it’s rideshares, group accommodation, or splitting groceries, there’s also strength in numbers when traveling on a budget. If you’re exploring solo, connect with other travelers at hostels or on free walking tours to make new friends and save a few pennies.
Be flexible and prepared
Being able to adapt on the go and have flexibility in your plans is arguably one of the best ways to save money while traveling. Look for cheap tickets and deals by flying mid-week during off-peak hours, or search for coupons and vouchers for attractions before you visit. Instead of using only major airports, compare prices at smaller, regional airports for cheaper deals.
The other side of the coin is being prepared and planning well, so you don’t get caught out and have to spend a lot of money for last minute travel, accommodation, or food. Eating out is one of the fastest ways to burn through your budget, so stock up at local supermarkets to cook your own meals and book hostels or motels with kitchen access. When you do eat out, opt for a local diner or food truck over a chain restaurant, and keep an eye out for happy hour discounts.
Mind your money
It may sound obvious, but the best way to avoid overspending is to keep a careful eye on your finances. Set a realistic budget before your travels, and track every expenditure to avoid any surprises. It’s worth looking into taking out a travel credit card – some earn you points for things like gas or tickets for attractions, waive foreign transaction fees, and may also include perks like rental car insurance or hotel discounts. If you use them strategically, they could save you hundreds if you’re traveling for an extended period of time.
It’s also smart to have a back-up plan in mind, in case of emergencies. You could ask a trusted friend or family member to look after some of your money for you, so it’s not accessible unless they send it to you, or store cash in a safe at your accommodation. Be honest with yourself about how likely you are to overspend in a moment of excitement, and plan ahead so you aren’t left short.
Enjoy exploring America
Making your money go further when traveling across such a vast destination as America may sound a little daunting, but with smart planning and a shift in your mindset it’s more than achievable. After all, it’s not about sacrificing the fun and memories made, it’s just about rethinking the ways in which you move, eat, and access all the places you want to see.
