(BPT) – With the thermometer hovering around freezing and snow still on the ground, it may not feel like it now, but spring is fast approaching. It will soon be time to step outside the house, enjoy the warmer weather and take that vacation you’ve been planning for months. Yes, it’s time for a spring road trip.
So where will you go? And can you afford it?
The answer to that first question is up to you. To help you answer the second, here are six ways to make your spring road trip more affordable.
1. There’s an app for that.
Technology is a great tool for the spring road trip, not just for navigation, and it can save you money as well. Apps like GasBuddy allow you to compare fuel prices at the stations around you and help you calculate your total fuel cost. Set your route based on cost efficient gas stations and you’ll save money while enjoying the road less traveled.
2. Be sure your car is up to the task.
A broken-down car can ruin your road trip and your budget in one swoop, so take your car to your mechanic for an inspection before you leave. This check-up will ensure everything is running properly and all of your fuels are at their required limit. Your mechanic will also inflate your tires to the proper pressure. Yokohama Tire reports if a tire is under-inflated by only 8 psi, it can reduce fuel economy by up to 2 percent, so keeping your tires properly inflated will save you money down the road. More tips at www.yokohamatire.com/tires-101/basic-information.
3. Eat responsibly.
As the trip progresses, you’re going to need to stop for food — and where you do can greatly affect your budget. Restaurants and fast food chains are tempting destinations, but to save money, stock up at the grocery store instead. This will allow you to buy larger quantities of food at a more manageable cost, and you won’t have to worry about finding a destination that appeals to everyone.
4. Start your trip with the right tires for your car.
From extreme heat to rainfall and roads of varying degrees of quality, there’s no telling what you’ll run into during your road trip. That’s why it’s important to leave home with the best tires you possible can. Yokohama Tires are designed with the latest tire technology that makes them safe and durable in different road conditions, so wherever your trip takes you, your Yokohama tires will make the drive as smooth as possible.
5. Plan ahead.
A week before you leave on your trip, take an evening to plan out everything you want to do and what you’ll need to make the most of your trip. Then, get packing. You’ll need to purchase some items along the way, but the more you can bring from home, the less you’ll have to buy on the road, saving you money in the long run.
6. Book hotels directly.
Travel websites like Expedia and Hotwire are invaluable for showing you hotels near you with last-minute availability, but they don’t always show you the lowest prices. If you find a hotel that appeals to you, call the hotel directly to book the room instead of using the travel site. You may be able to find a lower rate or upgrade your room for the same price. The hotel will also be more interested in working with you because they get their room booked without having to pay the travel site for the service.
