Between everything going on in the world and the ways prices are climbing — from gas to groceries — most of us are feeling the pinch. It’s tougher to decide what’s worth spending our money on — and figuring out how to manage a fun summer vacation.
Even with the yo-yo economy, one type of trip in particular still makes sense: the humble road trip. Of course, it’s not in-and-of-itself magically less expensive. But it’s a smart choice because it gives you more control over distance, lodging and food — letting you build a trip around what matters most.
The Money-Saving Moves to Make Before You Leave:
To set your mind at ease and avoid running up costs, do your homework in advance. “The key to an affordable summer road trip amid high prices is planning,” says personal finance expert Kimberly Palmer of NerdWallet. For peace of mind, plan an efficient route using Waze, she suggests. Try GasBuddy to flag low gas prices along the highway — and create a list in Google Maps. And check your car’s tire inflation and fluids to be sure it's road trip ready, she says.
AAA offers a free state-by-state (and within a state) fuel comparison tool for a quick overview of gas prices, while AARP members can tap gas perks and rental-car savings (if you’d rather not use your own wheels).
While an iron-clad itinerary is reassuring to some, it feels stifling to others. Hilton’s 2026 trend report shows an increased appetite for the all-American classic road trip and Shruti Gandhi Buckley, senior vice president at Hampton by Hilton, explains that flexibility is part of the appeal. A loose, open schedule is a nice change of pace. “My advice is not to over plan it. Leave room for flexibility,” she says.
Hotel Value Is More Than Just the Nightly Rate
Buckley cautions that the lowest hotel rate doesn’t always save you in the long run — no matter the chain. It’s really about the overall value. Consider what matters for family fun — then look closely at what comes with your reservation. She points to Hampton as dependable and straightforward, with basics like breakfast, Wi-Fi and a pool. Knowing what amenities make your family happy and having it all included in a transparent hotel price goes a long way to ease decision fatigue and reduce stress on the road.
Smart On-the-Road Savings Hacks
On the road away from the comforts of home is where costs can creep in, bit by bit. To keep a running tally of expenditures, check out the NerdWallet app's Cash Flow feature. Palmer likes to consult Flipp for best food deals in the area to replenish drinks and snacks. The app lets you enter the zip code of your current location to compare local weekly flyers. But she says her biggest saving hack is to bring along her family’s favorite snacks. On the road, when a snack-attack hits, it’s tempting to grab unhealthy snacks off the shelf of a convenience store, which cost more than buying in bulk ahead of time.
A good road trip for Buckley mixes both simple moments and small splurges. For example, she says to eat a casual lunch so you can enjoy a memorable dinner without feeling like you’ve broken the bank.
Packing Meaning Into the Journey Itself
A truly simple concept, road tripping really doesn't have to cost a fortune — and its gift is that it naturally slows you down, Buckley says. Hopping in the car, turning up the music, listening to an audiobook or a podcast, and cruising down the road can create memories and conversations that pull everyone together in a way few things can.