The road trip is as American as baseball and apple pie. Even with the ability to arrive in your destination in a fraction of time by flying, there’s just something about the call of the open road that is appealing.
In fact, according to AAA, more than one-third of Americans are planning to take a vacation of 50 miles or more away from home this year. The old school family road trip remains the most popular type of family vacation!
Taking a road trip can not only provide togetherness, but be easy on the bank account, too. Here are a few ways taking a road trip can save you money yet yield rich experiences.
No Baggage Fees
Flying these days usually incurs baggage fees if you can’t fit everything into a carry-on. When you take a road trip, pack all you like! Or, more realistically, how much your car can carry along with you and your family. No need to worry about the three-ounce rule, either — bring full bottles of shampoo, lotions and sunscreen with you! And if you have a bicycle rack, why not bring your bikes around for some exploring at your destination, while at the same time getting some good exercise.
Family Road trip. Photo: Monkey Business Images | Dreamstime
Affordable Accommodations
Accommodations en route can vary from campsites to roadside motels to luxury hotels and everything in between to fit within your budget. Map out your route to see what accommodations can be found along the way, and where you may want to make overnight stops. Reservations are usually a good idea, especially if you’re road tripping during busy times of the year like summer vacation, or holidays. Otherwise, you may find it difficult to find a place to lay your head for the night.
One Pass for All
The National Parks have long been a favorite family road trip destination, which makes sense — there’s something for everyone at the National Parks! What’s more, an annual pass costs $80 once and then it’s free entry for the rest of the year — for your carload, anyway, of up to four adults, including the pass owner. (Some restrictions do apply.) Keep in mind, too, children 15 years old and younger are always admitted free into National Parks.
Photo: Monkey Business Images | Dreamstime
Eat and Run
Someone I know (ahem, Dad) packs a snack bag on all of his road trips and dives in when hunger strikes. One thing that’s fantastic about a road trip is you can pack your snacks and meals and take them on the road with you. Pulling over to nosh is a terrific way to not only refuel but to stretch your legs and burn off some pent-up energy. Find a roadside park for fantastic picnicking and running around.
Car Karaoke
What would a road trip be without a karaoke-like singalong in the car? Create a playlist with your family’s favorite songs and pump up the volume. The energy that fills the car from belting out your favorite tunes is palpable and contagious and will surely help pass the miles.
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedDestinations / Europe
Sep 28, 2023Gramping Getaways at Chateau Mcely, Czech Republic
What better setting for grandparents and granddaughters to connect and share than a fairy-tale château set beside a fabulous forest? The Gramping Getaway at Chateau Mcely Spa Hotel & Forest Retreat in Mcely, Czech Republic, offers a themed adventure centering around the charming story of the château’s Princess Nely and her magical cheetah friend Pralinka. The character of the princess is based on the children’s book Nely, the Princess of Chateau Mcely written by château owner Inez Cusumano.
Sponsored Content
United Airlines Celebrates its First Class of United Aviate Graduates
As the only major U.S. airline to own a flight school, United Airlines already hit a major milestone, and now the carrier celebrates another important — and historic — step as the inaugural class of United Aviate Academy pilots graduates, leading the next generation of aviators. The 51 students in the graduating class were majority, at 80 percent, women and people of color — another stride toward United’s goal of training 5,000 new pilots by 2030 with half women or POC.
Destinations / Europe
Sep 28, 2023Visit These 3 London Spots Going All out for Halloween
This October, take the whole family to London and take time to not only enjoy the classic sites but also these scary fun Halloween events and experiences. Whether it’s a spooky-filled trip to the London Zoo or a step into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, here are the three can’t-miss experiences:
Slideshow
Sep 28, 20238 Medellín, Colombia, Destinations for Family Travel
It’s time to start dreaming of your next family trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Medellín, Colombia, with us.
Sponsored Content
Interior Upgrades Begin Rolling Out Across United Fleet
United Airlines is in the midst of a major initiative to modernize its fleet over the next several years. After first announcing the plan in 2021, planes fitted with United’s signature interior are finally beginning to appear across the airline’s narrowbody fleet of Boeing and Airbus planes. United flyers are sure to notice these enhancements from the moment they step on board: Each new or updated plane sports remodeled seats, seatback entertainment screens for everyone, Bluetooth connectivity and more, all adding up to a better experience on every journey.
Destinations
Sep 27, 2023Family Vacation Bundles in Orlando Now Include Luxury Boating Experiences
Make your family trip to Orlando so much more than just visiting the theme parks. Thanks to new vacation bundles from luxury hotels in Orlando, available as of Sept. 1, you can enjoy exclusive boating experiences during your trip.
ShareThis