Consumer expenditures on road trip travel surged from $66.6 billion in 2015 to $113.7 billion in 2016, according to MMGY, and domestic vacations made up 85% of American vacations.The “Great American Road Trip” is considered to be a rite of passage for anybody traveling throughout the United States. However, due to the lack of national railway system in the United States, your options are limited if you’re traveling by land. As a well-seasoned traveler and lover of adventure, this should only be seen as a small roadbump, because it presents you with the opportunity to explore other unique methods of travel in one of the world’s most diverse and well-visited countries.
Buy a Cheap Used Car
For residents of the country without a car, or for visitors who are able to stay a while and really invest time and money into a stunning road trip across one of the many scenic routes that America has to offer, buying a cheap used car allows the opportunity to travel whenever and wherever you want. While the initial upfront costs might scare you off, you can resell the car at the end of your trip to recoup some money, and if you purchase an efficient car, you might be able to save on gas in the long-run. It’s important to note that you’ll need to have a U.S. address for document registration and you’ll also need to purchase auto insurance.
Sign Up for a Relocation Service
If you don’t want to buy your own car, you can sign up for a car relocation service where you’ll get paid to drive someone’s car across the country to their new destination. Gas is covered, which makes this a great option, but the only downside is that you’re often constrained on time as they’ll need their car when they’ve moved to their new place as well. If you’re good at planning and don’t mind quick sightseeing stops, this might be the option for you. Companies like Transfercar and Hit the Road are good places to begin your search.
Ridesharing a Great Way to Meet People
Social travelers will love the idea of ridesharing, as it allows them with the chance to interact with people of the local culture while also cultivating friendships along the way that can help cover some travel costs. While you might have heard of BlaBlaCar, which services long-term commutes in various other countries, the American equivalent can be found in Krew. Or, you can post on a community board such as GumTree to find others headed to places you want to visit.
Staying Safe on the Roads
Americans revealed that one of the worst things that can ruin a great road trip is getting a flat tire, second only to a fender bender, of which 74% of those polled said would ruin the trip. Whether you’re a native of the country or are simply visiting, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the rules of the road in whichever state, or states, you’ll be traveling through. America is comprised of many different states and each have their own laws regarding road safety and requirements. Ensure that you pay attention to signage and are always diligent and obeying speed limits in order to prevent road accidents from happening that can deter your fun.
Stay Safe & Have Fun
There are many different type of cultures, ecosystems and climates to explore in the United States. Traveling across America in car is a great way to immerse yourself into the local culture while also traveling at a speed that suits you best. Pack your bags and get ready for an adventure that can introduce you to interesting new friends, sights and memories you’ll cherish forever.
