The Cheapest Way to Travel Cross Country
Going cross country? Exhausted your budget but still want to plan your trip without burning a hole in your pocket? Scared traveling cross country might be an expensive ordeal? Let me help you out.
Hitchhiking
No surprise, hitchhiking is cheap – the cheapest indeed. It comes with uncertainties, yet it’s also stuffed with adventure. A thumb out, a ride offered, and you’re headed to your next destination. Hitchhiking is not just about saving money; it’s the opportunity to meet folks, experience local lifestyle, and inevitably make travel stories worth sharing.
Carpool
Consider carpooling. It’s eco-friendly and cost-efficient. Websites and apps like BlaBlaCar make it easy to find people headed your way. You share cost of gas, get a comfy seat, and probably make a new friend. A practical choice for the budget traveler.
The Bus Route
Greyhound, Megabus, and similar bus services are an affordable choice for cross country travel. Not only do these buses connect major cities, they also provide services to smaller towns. Remember to book in advance to snag the best deals. The seats may not provide the comfort of a plush business class seat, yet they certainly don’t break the bank.
Hostels and Couchsurfing
Accommodation is another area where you can save substantially. Hostels offer beds at throwaway prices compared to hotels. They also provide a chance to meet fellow travelers. Websites like Hostelworld can help you find budget accommodation in hostels. Couchsurfing is another fantastic option. It allows you to stay with locals for free, which adds a facet of cultural exchange to your travel.
Ride the Rails
A train ride across the landscape of a country is an experience you don’t want to miss. While not always the cheapest, using rail passes can have you traveling vast distances at a reasonable cost. Rail services like Amtrak provide options for regional and national passes. Booking in advance will increase your chances of securing a great deal.
Travel by Bike or Foot
If you’ve time to spare, consider traveling by bike or even on foot. You won’t be covering large distances, but you’ll have a truly intimate experience of the places you’re traveling through. Also, it’s a fantastic way to keep your travel expenses low, and keep yourself fit!
Eat Like a Local
When it comes to food, trying local cuisine at street food vendors and small local eateries can be a delicious, cheap alternative to dining at expensive restaurants. Farmer markets are another low-cost option for local produce, and they offer a slice of local life and culture.
Free Entertainment
Finally, when it comes to entertainment, most cities host free events that you can attend. Be it an open-air concert, a local festival, or a free guided tour. Keep an eye on city websites and local community boards for information. National Parks and public beaches offer stunning settings – all for free!
Remember, going ‘cheap’ doesn’t always mean compromising on your travel experience. With a little bit of thought and planning, you can enjoy a fabulous cross-country trip without breaking the bank, create memories, and learn so much in the process.
