6 Money Saving Road Trip Tips For Memorial Day
If you’re looking for money saving road trip tips you’ve come to the right spot! With Memorial Day weekend just around the corner, millions of Americans are gearing up to hit the road – whether to visit loved ones or escape to a favorite getaway. According to AAA, an estimated 39.4 million people will travel by car during the holiday weekend. That’s an additional one million travelers from last year. If you’re looking to enjoy the ride without draining your wallet, check out these 6 money-saving road trip tips for Memorial Day weekend.
Key Points:
- Plan ahead to cut travel costs — from lodging and gas to meals on the road.
- Small choices can lead to big savings, like packing snacks and avoiding tolls.
- Use free tools and perks to stretch your travel budget further this Memorial Day.
- Enjoy the trip without overspending by balancing convenience with smart planning.
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
FAQs
How far in advance should I book lodging for a holiday weekend road trip?
For popular holiday weekends like Memorial Day, booking 4–8 weeks in advance typically gives you the best balance of availability and price. Last-minute bookings often come with limited options and higher rates, especially in tourist-heavy areas.
How can I budget for unexpected travel expenses?
Setting aside a small buffer—about 10–15% of your total trip budget—can help cover surprises like car repairs, parking fees, or price changes. Having emergency savings or available credit can provide peace of mind while traveling.
Are road trips cheaper than flying for holiday travel?
Road trips are often more budget-friendly for families or groups since costs like gas and lodging are shared. Flying may be cheaper for solo travelers or short trips, but additional fees for bags, rental cars, and meals can quickly add up.
