Essentials of the Budget Road Trip

The price of gas hasn't gotten any kinder, and it's affected every sort of travel. Plains and trains and even busses remain expensive and, in some cases, highly uncomfortable ways to travel. With a little forethought, planning, and a reliable car, anyone can take a road trip anywhere in the country for a fraction of the cost one would pay to travel any other way -- if you know exactly what to do to make this mode of travel safe, economical, and fun.

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Before you go: a car check-up.

Have a professional check the essentials: your oil, your breaks, and your tires. These are not things to be stranded without. If you've ever had any other issue in your care you want to make sure you check that as well. It is not fun to be stranded on the side of the road 4 and a half hours or more from home or your destination, trying to struggle with finding the nearest brake shop and towing company. Even if you have a service like On-Star that would help with such difficulties, it is wise to make sure your car is in tip top shape before hitting the road.

I also like to clean out my car and get it professionally vacummed and washed before I go. Travelling in a nasty car is uncomfortable, frustrating, and distracting.

Calculate your gas budget, in advance, both ways.