posted on October 28, 2024
Road trip essentials for a budget-friendly adventure
- How to save money on accommodation
- How to save money on food
- How to save money on gas prices
- Find free activities
- Frequently asked questions
- Choose the right car
- Submit an idea for a chance to get a road trip for free
There’s no doubt about it: taking a road trip is one of the best ways to enjoy all the sights and activities that Canada has to offer. With costs rising when it comes to food, gas, and accommodation, planning affordable road trips can be a challenge – but don’t let that discourage you from making your Canadian road trip a reality!
By planning ahead, making a budget, and compromising on larger travel expenses, you can take off on the adventure you dream of without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re planning your first trip as a family, a weekend city break, or embarking on an ambitious cross-Canada road trip with friends, it’s possible to plan a memorable and fun trip on a budget that hits on your must-sees and must-dos.
Tips for planning an affordable road trip
For any trip on a budget, you need to go in with a plan. Here are a few things to keep in mind to save money even before you hit the road.
Do your research
Planning ahead is key for any cheap road trip. The cost of your road trip will depend on your itinerary, as well as your personal comfort level and travel style. As you research your route, consider how the following things might affect the overall cost:
- Where you plan to go
- How far you’ll be travelling
- The length of your trip
- How many people are travelling with you
- Your preferred accommodation and travel style
A quick Google search is all you need to get an idea of lodging prices, provincial and national parks fees, and whether or not you can count on finding cheap gas along the way.
Make a budget
Next, make a road trip budget. Once you’ve researched your ideal itinerary, budget an amount for each category – accommodation, fuel, food, entertainment, and miscellaneous expenses like tolls or emergencies – so you know what you can expect to spend, as well as where you might compromise with cheaper options.
Avoid travelling at peak times
Long weekends and holidays generally mean more traffic and higher prices for fuel, lodging, and more. Planning to travel in the spring or fall is a great option to beat peak season prices.
If you’re planning a summer road trip, avoiding long weekends and travelling during the week can help you to avoid the crowds and keep your trip on a budget.
Track your expenses on the road
Keep your receipts and track your spending in a spreadsheet while you’re travelling. Apps like Splitwise or TravelSpend are useful tools to help you stay on target with your budget.
How can I save money on accommodations?
Getting creative with your accommodation options is a classic strategy for cheap road trips. Here are a few tips for saving money every night of your trip.
Go camping
Grab your sleeping bag! If you’re looking for the best deal for road trip accommodation, camping is the way to go. For a small fee, a provincial or national park can provide a cheaper and much more scenic alternative to a hotel.
Getting out in nature and enjoying the fresh air is a highlight of road tripping in Canada. Popular destinations like Banff, Cape Breton Island, and Vancouver Island offer many campgrounds that will keep costs down.
Car camping is a great option for a cheap road trip accommodation if you’re travelling solo or as a couple. Since it requires very little gear, it’s also a perfect choice for first-timers who don’t want to spend money on a tent and other supplies.
If your road trip budget is especially tight, there are also plenty of options for free camping on public land (known as Crown land) throughout Canada. Do your research ahead of time so you know the rules in the provinces you’ll be visiting.
Stay at budget-friendly hotels
When you’re planning a trip on a budget, a five-star experience just isn’t worth the price tag. Compare prices in regions where you plan to spend the night, and save by booking your stays at cheap hotels, hostels, or an affordable Airbnb to stretch your road trip budget.
If you’re planning your road trip well in advance, look for early bird discounts and take advantage of them when you secure your accommodation.
Stay outside the city centre
It’s tempting to base yourself in the heart of the action, but staying at one of the many motels and hotels outside of a city will help you save money that you can spend elsewhere.
By opting for accommodation in a residential area or a small town near your destination, you can enjoy the sights and activities on your list while keeping to your travel budget. Staying near a public transit hub or subway station can also help save on the cost of parking in the city.
And remember, just because you’re not staying downtown doesn’t mean you can’t live it up on your city break! Get together at a local watering hole for happy hour drinks and look for free events to enjoy.
Cash in on rewards programs
If the cost of accommodations is adding up, it might be time to redeem any travel points you’ve been keeping for a rainy day. You might be able to score a free night or two by cashing in points or offers.
See if your road trip buddies have rewards that they’re willing to redeem too. By pooling your resources, you might be able to save even more.
Stay with friends and family
Know any locals? Arranging to visit friends or family who live along your planned route is a great way to catch up with loved ones while also saving money. You can also invite them along to destinations nearby to split the price of accommodation and make your trip even better with good company.
How can I save money on food?
Keeping food expenses down on the road doesn’t mean eating poorly. Looking for opportunities to save on meals can introduce you to regional cuisine and local eateries as you travel.
Whether you’ve got many mouths to feed on a family road trip or are just looking out for yourself and a friend, here are a few tips to save on snacks, lunches, and more.
Pack your own food
Last-minute fast food purchases and expensive restaurant meals are bound to add up on any road trip. The key to saving money on road trip food and snacks is to stock up on your own food from home before you hit the gas.
Pack a cooler, make some sandwiches, and raid your pantry for snacks before you leave home to avoid impulse buys on the road. Bringing a reusable water bottle and refilling it where water is available allows you to save money on bottled water and stay hydrated for free.
Plan meals in advance
Meal planning is an ideal way to maximize cooler space while camping, or to save time preparing your own meals and your kids’ favourite snacks on a family road trip.
Think about simple and nourishing meals that you can prepare, and make a shopping list before you leave home so you can shop more efficiently and keep food costs down on the road.
Shop at grocery stores
Taking advantage of local grocery stores is a tried-and-true strategy to keep food costs down on your road trip.
Fresh fruit, deli sandwiches, or fried chicken are all quick and easy options for cheap road trip eats, and you can count on paying lower prices at grocery stores than at a restaurant. To save even more, take the opportunity to redeem points from supermarket loyalty programs like Scene+ or PC Optimum.
Visit local markets
Stop at roadside stands, orchards, and farmer’s markets for food prices that are a fraction of what you’ll pay in a store.
Buying farm-grown produce is a great way to both support the local community and keep your trip on a budget as planned. Browsing markets is also a family-friendly activity that foodies of all ages will enjoy!
Find cheap restaurants
Eating cheap doesn’t mean you’re not allowed to eat out at all. Do your research and look up restaurants on Google or Yelp to find the best options for your budget road trip.
Asking locals for recommendations is another way to find hidden gems that fit your budget, and will give you the opportunity to explore unique regional cuisine on your road trip.
Lastly, you can always fall back on fast food. (After all, what’s a Canadian road trip without at least one pit stop at Timmy’s?)
Stay in a hotel with a fridge and microwave
You don’t need a full kitchen to prepare your own food. Choosing accommodation with a fridge and microwave is all you need to save money by storing fresh food and heating up your own meals.
How can I save money on gas prices?
Gas prices may be on the rise, but it’s still possible to save money during your road trip if you get resourceful and do your research.
Try these tips to keep more fuel in your tank and more money in your wallet.
Use apps to find the best deals
Probably the least flexible expense of any road trip, gas prices will be what they are – but that doesn’t mean you have to stop at the priciest gas station.
Try apps like GasBuddy to find the best deal available at the gas stations in the area so you don’t spend more than you have to.
Optimize your route
Planning ahead to avoid tolls or to take the most direct route to your next pit stop will ensure that you keep the cost of gas as low as possible.
Do your research to get familiar with your route before your trip. A quick look on Google Maps will help you get ahead of steep fuel prices and other fees.
Remember, the number of passengers can help you save money too! Splitting the cost of gas between a group of friends or family members is another way to ensure a cheap road trip for everyone.
Skip the fuel pump
When gas prices have really got you down, why not forgo gas altogether? Renting an EV for your road trip is a great option to save at the pump and cut down on fuel consumption.
Unlike most vehicles, with an EV you won’t have to budget for the price of gas on your road trip. Plan ahead by researching charging stations along your route so you’ll never be short on juice.
What can I get for free?
If you think nothing in life is free, think again!he beauty of planning a Canada road trip is that there are countless natural sights and local attractions that can be enjoyed for free. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Hit the hiking trails
If you’re looking for free entertainment, look no further than the great outdoors. Going on a hike is one of the highlights of road tripping in any part of Canada, and there are many accessible trails that don’t require park entry fees.
You might be surprised at the number of hikes that can be accessed through local parks and residential areas. Look up walking trails along your road trip itinerary and you’re bound to discover an adventure in every locale.
Get an annual national parks pass
If you have a favourite provincial or national park that you visit regularly, or if you plan to stop at several parks on your road trip, it might be worthwhile to purchase a national parks pass or a provincial parks pass.
This way, you can avoid paying multiple times to access hiking trails and other attractions, as well as save on admission fees throughout the year.
Visit free museums and galleries
Looking for free things to do on a rainy day? Visiting museums and galleries is a great way to learn more about the history and culture of a city or small town and makes a perfect family outing.
For days with better weather, taking a stroll to admire historic architecture is another way to explore a town or city for free.
What’s the best car for an affordable road trip?
From gas station stops to maintenance needs, the car you drive can make or break your road trip budget. Whether you’re taking your own car or renting a car for your road trip, here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Book a budget-friendly vehicle
Consider the most economical options when you’re choosing a rental car for your road trip. It’s important to look beyond the upfront booking cost and consider the cost of fuel consumption, especially if you’re planning a long road trip.
Schedule a tune-up before your road trip
Lastly, there’s nothing more costly than car trouble. If you’re taking your own car, make sure to schedule a tune up for the following checks before hitting the road:
- Oil change
- Battery check
- Tire pressure and rotation
- Check belts and hoses
- Replace worn wiper blades
- Top off coolant, brake, transmission, and windshield wiper fluid
- Replace brake pads and air filters
- Replace any burnt out light bulbs
Frequently asked questions about planning an affordable road trip
What’s the cheapest way to travel around Canada?
The cheapest way to travel around Canada is to rent a car. Keeping costs down on the road will depend on a few factors, like the distance you plan to travel and the fuel efficiency of your vehicle.
A compact car may be cheaper on gas, but a spacious SUV can help you save on accommodation if you plan to go car camping. It all comes down to the type of road trip experience you’re after and the compromises you to make to maintain your budget.
How much will my road trip cost?
The cost of your road trip will depend on how you choose to stretch your budget and your personal travel style. Are you looking to take a long distance road trip and save on accommodation by camping, or would you rather stay closer to home to save on gas prices?
Consider travelling during off-peak and shoulder seasons to get the most out of your budget, no matter your plans. As long as you’re realistic about costs, and you’ll be able to enjoy a memorable road trip that’s also kind to your wallet!
How can I find free accommodation?
If your road trip budget is especially tight, look for free camping options on public land (known as Crown land) throughout Canada. Do your research ahead of time so you know the rules in the provinces you’ll be visiting.
Apps like Couchsurfing can also help you secure free accommodation, as long as you’re willing to be flexible, meet locals, and get outside your comfort zone!
Where is the cheapest place to go on a road trip in Canada?
The cheapest road trip destination depends on your priorities and your travel style. Ask yourself where you can get the most value for your budget. Check out these ideas to get you started:
- To visit the most provinces in the shortest amount of time, the Maritimes have you covered.
- If getting out into the great outdoors is your idea of fun, Calgary to Vancouver is a classic scenic route with budget-friendly accommodations in campsites and small towns along the way.
- For a short and sweet city break, try a road trip from Toronto to Ottawa, Montreal to Toronto, or Toronto to New York.
- Why not keep it local? Visiting Muskoka from Toronto or heading to the Eastern Townships from Montreal are just a couple of ideas to get away without breaking the bank.
What’s the best road trip planner?
If you’re looking for road trip planning tools, there are plenty of free options that can help you keep your route organized and under budget:
- Roadtrippers includes recommendations and discounts for budget-friendly planning
- Wanderlog is a flexible option, great for planning long-distance trips
- Google Maps is a classic for a reason and features offline maps for off-grid adventures
Why choose Turo for your budget road trip?
Discounts and savings
Planning in advance for a longer road trip? Enjoy early bird discounts and long-term rentals on Turo by locking in an advance booking or planning a multi-week trip.
More flexibility
Why pay more for additional drivers when you don’t have to? Unlike typical car rental companies, Turo lets you add as many additional drivers as you want for free. That means more money in your pocket, and more friends to split the gas bill with once you hit the road.
Unbeatable variety
Whether you need a roomy minivan for your family road trip or an economical sedan for a city break with pals, Turo has a car for every occasion and every budget, so you can find the perfect fit for your road trip plans.
Get your rental car covered by Turo’s Pitch a Trip program
One of the best ways to plan a budget-friendly road trip is by participating in Pitch a Trip. This initiative gives travellers the opportunity to have their vehicle costs covered while embarking on an unforgettable road trip adventure. Not only does this cut down on one of the biggest expenses of a road trip—your car rental—but it also opens the door to explore some of Canada’s most scenic routes on a budget.
What is Pitch a Trip?
Pitch a Trip is a Turo community-driven initiative that helps road trip enthusiasts turn their dream itineraries into reality. The program encourages travellers to pitch unique and inspiring road trip ideas; if selected, Turo will sponsor your trip by covering the cost of booking a car.
How does it work?
- Read our blog for inspiration: Browse through Turo’s road trip guides for detailed itineraries covering Canada’s most iconic routes.
- Submit your idea: Head to the Pitch a Trip submission form and share your unique road trip plan.
- Get selected: If your trip is chosen, Turo will sponsor your vehicle rental, including standard protection and trip fees, making it easier to hit the road without worrying about costs.
Why it’s a great option for budget travellers
- Save on vehicle costs: Car rentals are often one of the most significant expenses on a road trip. With pitch a trip, your rental costs are covered, leaving more room in your budget for food, accommodations, and activities.
- Follow expert itineraries: Whether you’re exploring the Rockies, the Maritimes, or anywhere in between, Turo’s curated road trip guides ensure you won’t miss the must-sees along the way.
- Share your experience: Pitch a trip focuses on content creators and travellers who love documenting their adventures. By sharing your journey, you’ll inspire others while enjoying a sponsored trip.
So, if you’re dreaming of hitting the road but want to save big, consider participating in Pitch a Trip. It’s a perfect way to turn your dream road trip into reality without the hefty price tag. For more information, check out Turo’s blog and start planning your next budget-friendly adventure.
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