As we head towards the summer months, many Kiwis are gearing up for the annual tradition of embarking on great road trips across our stunning country. The allure of exploring beautiful beaches, lush forests, and charming towns is undeniable. However, this year, rising petrol prices and the ever-present pressure on living costs could make planning for these adventures more stressful this year.
Fear not! We’ve prepared a guide to help you plan a budget-friendly summer road trip that will allow you to make the most of your holiday without breaking the bank.
- Plan Your Route Efficiently Before hitting the road, carefully plan your route to avoid unnecessary kilometres and excessive fuel consumption. Use GPS apps that provide real-time traffic updates and suggest the shortest route, saving you money on petrol and valuable time.
- Embrace the Slow Travel Philosophy Instead of rushing from one destination to another, consider spending more time in each location; this reduces fuel costs and allows you to truly immerse yourself in the local culture, enjoy hidden gems, and avoid the fatigue of constant driving.
- Carpool with Friends or Family Group travel can significantly reduce expenses. Share petrol costs, accommodation, and food by carpooling with friends or family. Plus, road trips are more enjoyable when you have great company.
- Prioritise Fuel Efficiency If you’re renting a vehicle, choose a fuel-efficient one. Smaller cars or hybrid vehicles can help you save on petrol. Additionally, maintain a steady speed, avoid aggressive driving, and keep your tyres properly inflated to maximise fuel efficiency.
- Pack Smartly Overloading your vehicle can lead to increased fuel consumption. Travel light and only pack what you need. Consider the essentials and leave non-essential items behind to save on weight and fuel costs.
- Accommodation Choices Opt for budget-friendly accommodation options such as campgrounds and holiday parks. Planning your stays in advance can help you secure better deals and avoid last-minute price hikes.
- Prepare Your Vehicle in Advance Don’t wait until the last minute to get your vehicle road-ready. Schedule a comprehensive check-up for your car to ensure it’s in good mechanical health. Focus on vital aspects like the engine, brakes and tyres. Addressing issues in advance can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs on the road.
- Spread the Costs Start saving and budgeting for your road trip well in advance to prevent a financial bottleneck right around Christmas. Consider setting aside money each month to cover expenses related to your journey, including vehicle maintenance and petrol costs.
- Use Loyalty Programmes and Discounts Take advantage of loyalty programmes, discounts and coupons for petrol, accommodation and attractions. Sign up for newsletters or apps from travel-related businesses to access exclusive offers and deals.
- Emergency Fund Always have an emergency fund ready for unexpected expenses. Whether it’s a sudden car repair or a medical issue, having funds aside for emergencies can provide peace of mind during your road trip.
Planning a budget-friendly summer road trip requires some thoughtful preparation and a bit of financial savvy. By following these tips, you can make the most of your journey without feeling the pinch. Remember, it’s not just about the destination. It’s about the adventure and the memories you create along the way. Happy travels, and may your summer road trip be memorable and affordable!