by Kate Kennedy

Created on: August 01, 2007   Last Updated: June 22, 2009

Driving used to be the least expensive and most interesting way to get from point A to point B. It is still the most interesting but the cost, due to fluctuating fuel prices, has risen sharply over the past few years. However, if you have a family, no matter the cost of gasoline, driving is still less expensive than any other form of transportation. So, let's talk about that gasoline.

Even though fuel prices have dropped in the past year, gasoline can still be one of the most expensive aspects of a driving vacation. Because of that, you might think that a smaller, more economical car would be the best choice of vehicle for a driving vacation. However, a smaller vehicle, which will give you the best MPG, can be more expensive than a medium sized SUV: especially if you plan on camping. A SUV allows you the room for coolers, a tent, sleeping bags and cooking supplies while a small, economy car does not. I have two vehicles. My SUV gets 18 MPG and my smaller car averages 30 MPG. If your trip is a thousand miles long and the average price of gasoline is $2.75 a gallon, the SUV will cost $53.00 more in fuel than the car. That $53.00 savings is canceled by one night's stay in an average motel. Once you add the cost of restaurant food compared to 'cooler food', it is easy to see how driving the SUV becomes much less expensive than the smaller vehicle.

Now that you are driving down the highway, consider these other ways you can save money on a road trip.

Go for the free stuff

You might be tempted to spend money on those "tourist traps" that every traveler encounters but drive right past those and enjoy nature instead. There are many points of interest' on every highway in America. If you take advantage of those, you not only introduce your children to beautiful vistas but they can learn about the area and its history as well.

Hotel coupons

In almost every truck stop or visitor center across the country, there are pamphlets available that offer coupons for hotels and motels at reduced rates. If you use these, you can save $10.00 to $20.00 per night per room. If you are very lucky, some offer a 50% savings.

Ask for the Manager's Special

On slow nights when a hotel or motel is not full, be ready to make a deal for a reduced rate by asking for the Manager's Special or when they quote you a price, tell them you can find a less expensive room next door. You will be surprised how willing they are to meet that price.

Stay in National Parks
Because a state will often

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