Budget 101: 5 Easy Ways to Road Trip Through Colorado While Saving Money

Picturesque landscapes, serene lakes, and thriving urban cities—it’s no wonder why people flock to the Centennial State. Road tripping through Colorado is especially delightful because of the endless places you can explore. However, road trips can get pricey if they’re not planned well and in advance.

So, here are 5 ways you can save money while exploring the national parks, hidden lakes, and the mountain towns of Colorado.

Plan Your Trip Ahead of Time

When you plan your trip early, you have the opportunity to get the best deals on transport, flights, and accommodation. Sure, you can get incredible last minute deals too. But if you’re budgeting, this gives you time to save up. Here’s a checklist you can follow when you’re planning a road trip:

• If you’re travelling in a group, it’s best to understand everyone’s expectations in the beginning. You can plan stops through Colorado based on what you and the rest of your travel companions want to experience.
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• Check out all the available route options to various cities and towns in Colorado. This will help you plan your accommodation and meals at each stop more efficiently.
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• Plan the cost of the road trip and always stash an emergency fund aside, just in case. If you’re travelling with friends, it’s best to discuss the budget. Food, accommodation, fuel, and tolls can add up to a lot.
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• Get travel insurance before you begin your journey. Yes, it comes with a cost but you’ll be covered if there’s a medical emergency. A first aid kit can only take you so far.
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Estimate the Cost of Fuel

Whether you’re driving your own car or renting it out, it’s crucial to factor in fuel costs. One thing you should remember is that the price of fuel differs from region to region. Before you set out, look up the different gas variants available in Colorado and its cities. Here are some suggestions that can help you save on fuel:

• Use an app to figure out the best prices for fuel in the area. This way, you can choose the cheapest option.
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• Avoid filling up your vehicle with gas in the city. The prices of fuel tend to be higher and it’s more reasonable to buy it from a nearby town.
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• Make sure your vehicle’s oil is fresh, the engine is tuned, and the tires are inflated. This will give you improved mileage.
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• Try to find a vehicle that is fuel efficient and gives you more mileage.

Another way you can save up on fuel is by riding sharing across Colorado. There are several car sharing apps that let you rent a vehicle for a couple of days. The total cost is also inclusive of gas and insurance. Definitely a good deal!

Cut Down on Food Expenses

If you really want to budget your road trip, figure out the food first. Constantly dining out when you’re travelling will drain out your wallet. Instead, you can stock up on snacks before you leave. This will keep the hunger at bay and also help you resist the urge to pick up chips and soda at various gas stations.

Preparing your meals is another way to cut costs. You can buy an affordable camping stove if you’re travelling by car or use the cooking facilities in a camper van. Look for one pot recipes online for quick and easy meals. You can also look for accommodation that offers an equipped kitchen. This will help you plan your meals through the trip and stash money aside for local cuisine.

Also, avoid eating at fancy restaurants unless they have a dish you really want to try. The best way to experience a city or town is by trying out the local fare. Look for places that locals flock to for authentic cuisine.

Alternatively, you can download money saving apps to look for discounts or deals at restaurants across various cities in Colorado.

Look for Free Things to Do

Now, there are a lot of free things you can do in Colorado. Let’s start with the national wildlife refuges, 7 of them to be precise. If you truly want to experience the diverse ecosystem in Colorado, these are the places to be. For adventure enthusiasts, the great outdoors is your best friend. Mountain biking, skiing, fishing, hiking—you will not run out of free stuff.

If you’re deeply passionate about your brew or wine, then opt for the free tours. Many wineries, distilleries, and breweries across Colorado provide tours at no cost.

Look up the free events online before you head to that city or town. For instance, if you’re heading for Denver, check out all the free music festivals or events for that particular week. You can also look for discounts or coupons online to save on tickets and food.

Choose a Card with Cashback or Reward Points

It’s best to pick a credit card that suits your travel needs. If you’re travelling to Colorado from another country, opt for a travel credit card. You will get several benefits like complimentary travel insurance, reward points or cashback, and sometimes, even access to airport lounges. Credit cards that offer cashback or reward points on retail transactions are also ideal. This way, you earn something every time you spend.

Do note that some banks charge overseas fees on transactions and ATM usage. Before you travel, enquire with your bank so you don’t get a massive surprise when you return home.

Your budgeted road trip doesn’t have to be limiting once you follow these tips and tricks. Plan in advance, make sure you have the right cards, and stay away from the emergency fund unless it absolutely necessary. Happy road tripping!