How to Save Money While Traveling
Introduction
It’s no surprise that traveling costs can really add up. But traveling doesn’t have to break the bank! With a few smart strategies and resources, you can enjoy your adventures while keeping more money in your pocket. From fuel savings to park passes, we’ll dive into our practical tips to cut costs and make travel more affordable.
1. Save on Fuel with Fuel Cards and Apps
What are fuel cards?
Fuel cards are specialized payment cards designed to provide discounts and perks for fuel purchases. They are widely used by businesses with fleets and individual travelers, especially RV owners and long-haul drivers, to manage fuel expenses effectively and save money at the pump. Fuel cards often provide access to exclusive discounts, detailed transaction tracking, and other benefits tailored to frequent fuel users. This is one of the best ways we save money while traveling on the road!
How Fuel Cards Work
Discounts on Fuel Prices:
Fuel cards negotiate discounted rates with fuel networks or truck stops. When you use the card, you pay a lower price per gallon compared to the pump price.Wide Network of Stations:
Most fuel cards are accepted at specific fuel station chains or truck stops, making them convenient for long-distance travelers.Fee Structure:
Some cards are free, while others may charge small transaction fees or monthly membership fees. It's important to compare fees (link to our personal examples?) versus potential savings.
Benefits of Using Fuel Cards
Cost Savings:
Receive discounts ranging from a few cents to over $1 per gallon.Convenience:
Fuel cards streamline payments at the pump and eliminate the need to carry cash.Budgeting Tool:
Helps keep track of fuel costs for better expense management.Additional Perks:
Some cards include rewards points, roadside assistance, or access to special programs.
Popular Fuel Cards for Travelers
Open Roads Fuel Card
The Open Roads Fuel Card offers diesel discounts at numerous truck stops across the U.S., including Love's and TravelCenters of America. Users have reported savings of 30 to 40 cents per gallon. The card is free to obtain, though there are minimal transaction fees at certain locations.
Good Sam Membership
Good Sam members enjoy fuel discounts at Pilot and Flying J stations—5 cents off per gallon of gas and 10 cents off per gallon of diesel. Membership also provides additional perks like campground discounts and access to roadside assistance services.
RV Fuel Saver Card
Offered by TechnoRV, the RV Fuel Saver Card provides discounts at various truck stops. It's similar to the Open Roads program, and some users find it beneficial to have both to maximize savings.
Pro Tip
When selecting a fuel card, compare the stations in their network, fees, and the potential savings for your typical route. Combining a fuel card with fuel price apps like GasBuddy or Gas Guru can maximize your savings.
Bonus: Our favorite Apps for saving money while travelling:
GasBuddy
GasBuddy is a free app that helps you locate the cheapest gas prices in your area. It relies on user-reported data and offers a payment card that can provide additional discounts at participating stations.
Gas Guru
Gas Guru allows you to find nearby gas stations with the best prices. It provides directions and lets you filter results by price, distance, and fuel type.
Upside App
Upside offers cash-back deals on gas, groceries, and dining. By claiming offers through the app and uploading your receipt, you can earn cash back, which can be transferred to your bank account or redeemed as gift cards.
Pro Tip: Combining these tools can maximize your savings. For instance, use GasBuddy to find the lowest prices and Upside to earn cash back on the same purchase.
Pro Tip: Track your fuel expenses to see how much you’re saving over time.
2. Use Reciprocal Memberships
What Are They?: Explanation of reciprocal memberships (e.g., museum and zoo networks).
Examples: ASTC Travel Passport Program, AZA Reciprocal Program.
Savings Potential: Pay for one membership and gain free or discounted entry at hundreds of locations nationwide.
Pro Tip: Plan your itinerary around reciprocal locations for maximum benefits
3. Invest in State Park Passes
Why Get One?: Unlimited access to state parks for a flat annual fee.
Benefits: Lower cost compared to paying daily fees, supports outdoor recreation.
State-Specific Options: Highlight a few popular state park systems with great value (e.g., Texas, Colorado, California).
Pro Tip: Check if your home state’s pass offers reciprocal benefits in other states.
4. Maximize the America the Beautiful Pass
Overview: Explain the $80 annual pass for federal lands, including national parks, monuments, and recreation areas.
Value for Travelers: Pays for itself after 2-3 visits to popular parks.
Pro Tip: Pair this pass with a camping membership for even more savings.
5. Stay Longer in One Spot
Why It Saves Money: Lower nightly rates for extended stays, reduced fuel costs from fewer moves.
Benefits Beyond Budget: Deeper exploration of an area, reduced travel stress.
Pro Tip: Negotiate with RV parks or campgrounds for discounts on weekly or monthly stays.
6. Leverage Thousand Trails
What Is Thousand Trails?: Overview of the camping membership program.
How It Works: Pay a flat fee for access to a network of campgrounds.
Savings Potential: Unlimited stays at participating locations significantly lower nightly costs.
Pro Tip: Combine Thousand Trails with other memberships or state park passes for ultimate savings.
Conclusion
Recap: Travel doesn’t have to be expensive—fuel cards, memberships, and strategic planning can dramatically lower costs.
Call to Action: Share your own money-saving tips in the comments and start planning your next budget-friendly adventure!
Quick Tips Section
Meal Prep: Save by cooking your own meals instead of dining out.
Off-Season Travel: Travel during less busy times for lower rates on accommodations.
