Planning a vacation is a lot of fun, but sometimes the financial strain can take the wind out of your sails. If you are planning a trip across the United States, being frugal is simple if you do a little bit of research beforehand. Whether you are planning a short trip or long journey, you can travel throughout the U.S. inexpensively.
Methods of Transportation
Calculate the cost efficiency of flying versus taking a road trip. Driving usually ends up being cheaper, even with the high cost of gas. Travel with friends and split the cost of fuel and lodging. There are also commuter trains that run throughout the U.S. This can often be a cheaper alternative to driving or flying. Amtrak most likely has a station near you. The benefit of traveling by train is that you can sleep during your trip, read a book or even get some work done. You will travel faster than you would by car. The downside is that you will not have a vehicle once you get to where you are going. A train trip from New York to Los Angeles, San Francisco or Seattle will cost $197 per person for a reclining seat, or $490-$880 for a "roomette" with two beds.
Places to Stay
Explore your adventurous side and go camping. If camping is not your style, swap houses with someone. HomeExchange.com offers members the chance to swap houses anywhere in the world. You can also stay with friends or family if you have any in the area you want to go. One last option to consider is a hostel. These are best if you are traveling without a family member since you may share a room with other people. Hostels are usually less than half the price of a hotel. For example, the City Hostel Seattle costs $28 per night and includes things like free Wi-Fi and breakfast. The average hotel in Seattle ranges anywhere from $70 to over $300 per night.
Ways to Offset the Cost
- If you own your home and plan to travel for more than three months, rent out your home to cover your bills and some of your travel expenses. You can also pick up side jobs along the way. You can work on an organic farm, a fishing boat or a restaurant. World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) is a unique opportunity to work on a farm for free lodging and, often, food. There are WWOOF opportunities in every US state, including a 1,000-acre coastal farm in Half Moon Bay, California, where you would milk cows, care for chickens and maintain their gardens. You could also have a yard sale to make some extra money before you go.
Find Discounts
- The best way to get good deals while traveling across the U.S. requires a little bit of leg work. By doing some preliminary planning, you can find specials on just about anything, including hotels, restaurants, activities, cruises and air fare. Roomsaver.com has coupons for hotels that are regularly updated. If you organize a large group, you can often get a free trip for yourself.
