Cost Analysis for Car Rental and Accommodation on a US Coast to Coast Journey with a Group of Three
Overview of the Journey
The United States is vast, covering over three thousand miles from coast to coast, providing a diverse range of attractions and landscapes. Planning a coast to coast journey, especially with a group of three, involves various expenses including car rental, accommodation, and fuel. This article aims to provide a detailed analysis of these costs.
Factors Affecting Costs
The total cost of a coast to coast road trip in the U.S. depends on several factors:
Duration of the Trip
The length of your trip can significantly impact the cost. If you aim for a more leisurely journey, taking 5-6 days for the drive while seeing significant landmarks, you will incur higher expenses compared to a more time-efficient route.
Type of Accommodation
Where you choose to stay on your trip also plays a crucial role. Staying in luxury hotels can increase costs, while opting for hostels or budget-friendly options can save money. It's essential to weigh the quality of the stay against your budget.
Food Expenses
The cost of dining out can vary widely based on your preferences. For a group of three, you will need to budget for meals, which can add significantly to the total expenses. Consider preparing some meals yourself to reduce costs.
Fuel Costs
Fuel prices can fluctuate, and the route you choose can affect how much gas you consume. Some roads are more scenic and thus have lower speed limits, leading to higher fuel consumption.
Car Rental Costs
The cost of car rental is a significant expense. It is worth noting that the cost can be higher if you choose to rent from one location and return to a different location, where you originally rented the car.
Breaking Down the Expenses
To get a clearer picture of the costs involved, let's break down each expense:
Car Rental
A mid-size car rental in the U.S. can cost anywhere between $40 and $100 per day, depending on the brand and the duration of your rental. For a group of three, consider opting for a van or SUV if you plan to carry more luggage or plan to take a group of friends along.
It's important to check whether the rental agency allows dropping off the car in a different location. If not, you will need to transport the car back, which can add to your expenses.
Accommodation
Accommodation costs can vary greatly. For a group of three, budgeting around $100 to $200 per person per night is reasonable. However, this can increase if you opt for luxury or centrally located hotels.
Consider alternatives such as staying in Airbnbs, hostels, or campgrounds, which can significantly reduce costs. If you are traveling in a group, it's advisable to book group rates or split the cost of a larger room.
Fuel Expenses
A car traveling at 65 mph on average will consume about 25 miles per gallon. The drive from coast to coast, depending on the route, can range from 2,800 to 3,000 miles. Assuming a car average of 25 mpg, the fuel cost alone would be approximately $280 to $320 (assuming $1.12 per gallon).
However, if you include stops for attractions, the route will be longer, potentially requiring more fuel. If you drive the route as a straight line, your fuel expenses will be lower than taking scenic routes.
Meals and Beverages
Assuming you dine out two or three times a day, a budget of $30 to $50 per person per day would be reasonable. This can vary based on the type of food you prefer and the areas through which you travel.
To save on food expenses, consider preparing some meals yourself, buying snacks, and taking advantage of street food options in cities.
Strategic Planning for Optimal Costs
Placing a coast to coast drive in a bite-sized chunks can be a more efficient and cost-effective approach. Here’s a recommended itinerary:
First Trip: Los Angeles to New York
Itinerary: Fly into Los Angeles, explore California, and then make your way to Las Vegas over a 2-week period. After this, plan another trip to see the northeastern U.S., including New York and Washington D.C.
Reason: This approach allows you to focus on a more manageable area for each trip, taking in all the notable landmarks and attractions without feeling rushed. It also allows for better use of hotel rooms, as they are typically cheaper outside peak seasons.
When to Plan the Trips
Placing the coast to coast drive in spring (April to June) or fall (September to November) can be more cost-effective and enjoyable. During these seasons, road conditions are better, weather is more moderate, and costs for accommodations and fuel are generally lower.
Considering the varying road conditions and weather throughout the year, planning your trip during these seasons can significantly reduce the costs and enhance the overall experience.
Conclusion
A coast to coast journey in the U.S. can be a dream come true, filled with unforgettable experiences and breathtaking landscapes. However, it requires careful planning and budgeting to ensure the trip remains enjoyable and financially feasible. By breaking the journey into smaller segments and considering the factors analyzed in this article, you can plan a successful and economical coast to coast adventure with a group of three.