When planning an American road trip, you need to have a gas budget.
Be aware of fluctuating gas prices.
Finding a balance between comfort and consumption when choosing your rental vehicle can help you save on your gas budget.
Gas generally costs about half as much in the U.S. as in Europe.
Will rising fuel prices impact the cost of my USA road trip?
Fuel prices have indeed increased in recent months, but the impact remains relatively modest when viewed across an entire road trip (and fuel still represents a secondary expense overall). For a 3,500 km journey by car, this typically means an additional £45 to £90 in fuel costs.
It’s also worth noting that fuel prices in the United States remain significantly lower than those in Europe, which helps put the overall impact into perspective.
| 3,500 km road trip | Car | RV |
|---|---|---|
| Consumption | 210 to 385 L | 385 to 770 L |
| Cost in February | £155 to £280 | £280 to £560 |
| Cost today | £200 to £370 | £370 to £740 |
| Estimated increase | +£45 to +£90 | +£90 to +£180 |
How to keep fuel costs under control on a US road trip?
1. Use local apps to compare fuel prices. Petrol prices can vary widely from one station to another. Local apps help you find the best rates nearby with minimal effort.
2. Avoid changing your flights. Altering your itinerary can lead to higher airfares, which quickly outweigh any savings made elsewhere.
3. Fill up outside tourist areas. Prices tend to be higher in busy, tourist-heavy locations. A short detour can save a few cents per litre — which adds up over the course of a trip. Gas prices in rural areas are always lower than in the city.
4. Plan your route carefully. Work with your travel adviser to map out an efficient itinerary and avoid unnecessary detours that increase fuel consumption.
5. Pay attention to the fuel consumption when choosing your rental vehicle. This may differ considerably between different models. Also note that fuel consumption is evaluated by the manufacturer. Vehicles usually consume two or three more litres than the amount indicated.
How to estimate your fuel budget for a US road trip?
1. Gas Buddy is an app that provides current gas prices across the U.S. (and western Canada). You can use it to help calculate a realistic budget.
2. Estimate your total distance using our suggested itineraries. Our itineraries provide clear mileage guidelines, making it easier to anticipate your overall fuel needs.
3. Check your rental car’s fuel consumption. Refer to the vehicle specifications to understand its fuel usage. Most cars consume between 9 and 14 litres per 100 kilometres, depending on the model.
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