1. Find the Best Place to Stay

2. Pack a Snack

Packing a cooler full of snacks and drinks can help you avoid overpriced gas station stops – and keep you from constantly pulling over. You can also plan to pack enough food for the duration of your trip so you’re not relying on restaurants for every meal.

3. Search for the Cheapest Gas

Even with high gas prices, we expect a large jump in holiday driving compared to the last few years.  To save at the pump, download an app like GasBuddy to search for the cheapest gas prices along your trip route. You can also look for dining and shopping deals on GasBuddy and use those points towards free gas.

4. Avoid Tolls

If you’re heading out for the holiday, keep in mind that Thursday and Friday are expected to be the busiest travel days. If time allows, consider a route that excludes tolls. While roads with tolls are usually faster, you can end up spending a good chunk of change on them. Look at the different routes ahead of time on Apple or Google maps and see if a slightly longer drive without tolls can be worth the savings.

5. Find Free Events

Check out local event calendars for wherever you’re headed. Many towns and cities host free community events over holiday weekends, like outdoor concerts, street fairs, fireworks displays, farmers markets, and other festivals. These events are a great way to experience the local vibe without spending a dime. Not only do they offer budget-friendly entertainment, but they can also make your trip more memorable and unique.

6. Use Perks