Gas prices have steadily increased over the last few years and have been on a roller coaster ride the last several months. Regardless of where you live, you have witnessed this first hand.
It is also safe to say that at least 90% of the general population is negatively affected by the rise and fall of gas prices... the more gas costs, the less money you have to spend on the things you want.
How can you have fun and not compromise on fun?
Here are the top 5 things you can do to make sure you can still get what you want when it comes to travel, fun and high gas prices.
1. Stay Local
When you travel within 1-2 hours of your home, you really aren't spending that much money on gas. Typically you will be traveling on the freeway or highway - set the cruise control and enjoy the scenic view to your destination.
Even when you travel an hour from home... You more than likely are in a different city and county... Maybe a different State!
Imagine what there is to do when you consider driving a 1 or 2 hour radius from your house? An amazing potential for fun, you need to think outside of the box - be creative!
2. Travel with Friends and Family
The more people in the car, the more fun your road trip can be. Plus when you get to your final destination - you can share your experience with more people.
If you are really strapped for cash, you can get friends and family to help pitch in to fill the gas tank. A few dollars from 3 or more people might even get a half a tank you didn't have before the trip.
Traveling in groups brings back the idea of "family". This definition of family doesn't need to be by blood relation alone. Family can be described by close friendships too. Bring the "family" back into your life and take a road trip!
3. Explore the Outdoors
Take a hike, go sightseeing, hang out at a State Park or Regional Park. Take a walk on that nature trail, you will be surprised at what you see - take the time and really look!
The great outdoors has more to offer than you think. If you live in the middle of a city... imagine where you could drive to in 2 hours? I can only imagine the countryside you will see, the views from the mountains or the beaches.
Most of the time you can find parks that are FREE of admission prices. If anything, they might charge a nominal fee for parking.
If you are traveling with "family" then split the fee. It is still cheaper than paying for at all by yourself.
4. Pack Your Lunch!
There is nothing wrong with packing your lunch! It is a lot healthier and cheaper than buying at a fast food joint or restaurant.
Take a cooler, fill it up with water and munchies. Pack it up with all the picnic supplies you need. When you get to your destination, you can have a picnic.
You would have spent anywhere from $5.00-$25.00 each on a meal. Depends on where you stop.
You just saved all this money on food - now you can use it for gas - if you need to.
5. Know Where FREE Events and Activities in Your Area Are
Do a little bit of research before you leave on your trip.
A lot of cities and organizations are offering FREE admission or low cost admission to their events and activities. You just need to know where to go before you get there!
You can even find discount coupons online, membership discounts (AAA, Bank of America), FREE admission for kids, etc.
The point is getting creative and enjoying your day trip adventure.
When you consider these 5 tips for saving money when you have to pay for high gas prices... You realize that you can still have fun with your family. It just happens to be a fun where YOU take ownership of YOUR fun filled day and YOU become the tour guide!
There is no end to the possibility of a new adventure 1 or 2 hours away from your home!
