road trip

7 Affordable Cities for a Craft Beer Road Trip

Lindsay VanSomeren — Thu, 13 Sep 2018 08:00:10 +0000

As any beer aficionado knows, the craft beer scene across the country is booming. In 2017 alone, the craft beer industry was worth $26 billion, and was spread out across 6,266 craft breweries in the U.S.

That's a lot of breweries to visit. But if you're on the lookout for some fresh beer and up for a fun road trip, these seven cities offer some of the densest concentrations of breweries on a per capita basis, and per 100,000 residents, according to research firm Datafiniti. And better yet, they're affordable places to visit. (See also: 15 Ways to Save Money When Getting Your Drink On)

Important Note: Remember to always practice safe driving, which means when we say "beer road trip" it doesn't mean literally drinking beer while driving the road trip. Obviously.

1. Boulder, Colorado

Offering a record-setting 13.3 breweries per capita, Boulder is definitely the place to be if you like good beer. You might recognize names like Avery Brewing, Upslope Brewing, and Boulder Beer (the self-proclaimed "first craft brewery in Colorado") from your local liquor store, but there are many other hidden gems here, too. Make sure to check out smaller breweries like Finkel and Garf, which won the 2017 Great American Beer Festival gold award for their Oatmeal Milk Stout, or Twisted Pine Brewing Company, which offers a rotating tap list of 24 beers.

When it's time to hit the hay, you can find lodging in Boulder from $85–$120 per night.

And in the unlikely event you run out of beers to try, you can always drive an hour north to Fort Collins, or about 40 minutes south to Denver, which also have some of the highest concentrations of breweries in the country. (See also: 5 Laid-Back Girls' Trip Destinations Anyone Can Afford)

2. Bend, Oregon

Home to the famous Deschutes Brewery and just a couple hours away from the golden Willamette Valley hop-growing fields, you can expect some fresh and flavorful beers in Bend. This town boasts a brewery density of 11.6 breweries per capita. Worthy Brewing Company offers an urban hop-filled garden, complete with the "Hopservatory," a real-life working observatory.

Don't miss out on the rustic mountain lodge at Cascade Lakes Brewing Company, where you can order everything from street tacos to Columbia River steelhead to go along with one of their 13 beers on tap.

Lodging in Bend, Oregon runs from $120 per night.

3. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville boasts an impressive 8.8 breweries per capita. If you're looking for a beer with a big, boisterous flavor, you can find it at Wicked Weed Brewing, along with Belgian-style ales and free tours to boot.

If high-gravity, barrel-aged, or sour beers are more your style, be sure to check out Green Man Brewery, which offers a range of beers such as Bootsy, a sour black ale, or Snozzberry, a blond wheat sour ale aged in oak barrels for a full year.

If you need a place to stay while in Asheville, you can find hotels starting from $77.

4. Portland, Maine

Portland, Oregon is one of the most well-known brewery cities in America, but did you know the Portland on the opposite coast — in Maine — boasts a higher per capita beer density, with 6.8 breweries?

If the number of breweries overwhelms you, consider booking a tour with the Maine Brew Bus for $70, which offers a wide range of brewery tours in Portland and the surrounding areas. Other breweries to check out include the waterfront and aptly-named Shipyard Brewing Co. and Allagash Brewing Company, which specializes in spontaneous fermented Belgian-style ales.

Even better, you can find quaint homes on Airbnb in Portland for under $70 per night. (See also: A First-Timer's Guide to Using Airbnb)

5. Santa Rosa, California

Santa Rosa in beautiful Sonoma County, California might be better known for its famous vineyards, but look again; there are plenty of craft breweries to be found. The city has a density of six breweries per capita, and tons of breweries with fun and creative names, like Old Possum Brewing.

You might think wine country lodgings are expensive (and hotels certainly can be), but you can still find private Airbnbs to rent here from $45 per night.

6. Madison, Wisconsin

Madison is home to 4.8 breweries per capita. Rockhound Brewing is a standout in Madison, offering a variety of beers. Make sure to at least get a taste of their beer Excessive Adjectives, an aptly-named beer described as a "nitro sour whiskey barrel-aged multigrain Belgian dark strong ale." The Great Dane Pub and Brewing Co. also offers a wide selection of beers and an even better menu for when you're hungry.

Lodging at Madison hotels run from $80, although you can easily find a private Airbnb for under $50 per night.

7. Albuquerque, New Mexico

Southwestern beer breweries might not be as well-known, but what better place to quench your thirst with a cold brew when it's 100 degrees outside? Albuquerque, in particular, has the highest density of beer breweries (3.6 per capita) in the region.

You'll definitely want to check out Boxing Bear Brewery, which has won numerous awards for seven of its beers over the years, including a 2016 Great American Beer Festival gold medal for The Red Glove Double Red Ale, and a 2016 World Beer Cup gold medal for its Chocolate Milk Stout. The area is home to a surprising number of Scottish and Irish brewpubs, such as the Quarter Celtic Brewpub which offers the fun Pedro O'Flanagan's Mexican Lager, and the Drafty Kilt Brewing Company which offers another salty-named beer, the Campbell-Toe IPA.

Lodging is very affordable, starting at $72 per night.

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This article is from Lindsay VanSomeren of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How to Travel Across the U.S. on a Budget

Nick Wharton — Thu, 30 Aug 2018 08:00:11 +0000

From the beauty of the hundreds of national parks, to the world famous landmarks dotted across the country, America is truly a traveler's paradise. It's possible to have virtually any kind of experience you're after in the U.S., but many people believe it to be more costly than heading abroad on a vacation.

Sure, it's possible to spend a fortune on a five-star hotel and business class flights, but there are also plenty of affordable ways to explore this breathtaking country. (See also: 5 European Cities You Can Visit for $50 a Day)

Opt for low-cost accommodations

If you're not careful, accommodations can unnecessarily eat up a huge chunk of your travel budget. It will likely end up being your largest expense (unless you choose free options), so it's vital to tackle this first to bring costs down.

Airbnb

Airbnb is particularly great as an alternative to hotels in major cities — which tend to be far more expensive. The cheapest way to use Airbnb is to use the private room feature. This allows you to book a room in someone's house rather than having to shell out for an entire place of your own. You'll have the added benefit of being able to use the kitchen facilities, which can save you tons on food costs. (See also: A First-Timer's Guide to Using Airbnb)

Couchsurfing

This is by far the cheapest option when it comes to finding budget accommodations, because it's absolutely free. It's best to try and plan couchsurfing far in advance, as it's unsurprisingly a popular service, and can get booked months ahead. Another thing to keep in mind is that it's mainly available in big cities, so you'll need to plan accordingly if you're heading to a more rural area.

Camping

Campsites can cost as little as $5, but if you want to save even more, there are plenty of options for dispersed camping (aka wild camping) that are absolutely free. Wild camping is widely available on Bureau of Land Management land and in National Forests. It could also open up a cheap way to visit National Parks, as much of this land lies directly beside National Park sites. (See also: How to Find Free Campsites in the U.S.)

Nosh on a budget

Food is reasonably cheap in the U.S., so keeping yourself fed and watered shouldn't cost an arm and a leg. However, there are ways to keep your food costs down.

Cook your own meals

Dining in fancy restaurants three times a day is clearly going to bust your budget, so it pays to pick and choose when you eat out. Buying your own groceries and cooking for yourself is by far the most effective way of saving money on food while traveling. This is another reason why hotels are a less cost-effective option than Airbnb, couchsurfing, or camping, as they generally do not provide a kitchen.

Find cheap restaurants

With a little bit of Googling, you can find fantastic cheap restaurants in virtually any part of the U.S. These can be fast food restaurants, diners, or chain restaurants that offer good value for their menu prices. You can also find special offers like weekly deals, kids-eat-free discounts, or offers on the restaurant's app to cut down the total even more. (See also: 20 Fast Food Apps That Help You Score Free Food)

Find free or affordable activities

There's so much to see and do across the 50 states that it would be a real shame to miss out because of a lack of funds. However, there are fun, free attractions throughout the country if you know where to look.

Google, Google, Google

Search for the location you're headed to with the key term, "free things to do in" and the results will most likely turn up numerous offers. Not everything will be your bag, but you'll certainly come across a few gems no matter where you are. From free museums and art galleries, to one-off events and festivals, you'll probably be surprised at what you can do without spending a dollar. (See also: 47 Free Things to Do Across the U.S.)

Buy a National Parks pass

If you're a nature lover, your travels across the U.S. will likely include visiting a National Park or two. If the ones you plan to visit charge entrance fees totaling more than $80, then purchasing a National Parks pass is going to save you money. Plus, it will give you entrance to every single park and, national forest, and Bureau of Land Management site for an entire year. (See also: How to Save on National Park Visits in 2018)

Consider a city pass

Many of the larger cities within the U.S. offer a city pass that gives you access to discounts across the most popular attractions and sometimes even entitles you to free use of the public transportation systems. These can be a great way to save money on an action-packed couple of days and are well worth checking out before arriving at your destination. (See also: 8 Free Things You Can Do on Any Vacation)

Keep transportation costs to a minimum

When you're traveling across America on the cheap, it's important to figure out the best method of transportation to take you to your desired locations.

Drive

There are numerous ways to get around, and much of it depends on your route, but generally driving works out to be the cheapest, especially compared to flights or trains. Before you leave, however, make sure you get the car inspected to ensure it won't break down in the middle of nowhere.

You'll have to budget for gas, and these costs can add up quickly, especially in an area where gas prices are high. To cash in on this common budget buster, use a credit card that offers cash-back or bonus points for gas. That way, even if you do end up spending a lot on gas, you'll make some of it back via rewards. (See also: How to Take a 7-Day Cross Country Road Trip for $350 or Less)

Rent a car

Another option is to rent a car for your cross-country vacation. By renting, you can guarantee that the car is going to run well, and you can also choose a fuel-efficient model, reducing your gas costs. This option works well for shorter trips, and depending on the rental deal, it can be better than using your own car.

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This article is from Nick Wharton of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

8 Travel Gadgets to Take on Your Next Road Trip

Nick Wharton — Wed, 08 Aug 2018 08:00:11 +0000

There's something about loading up the car, putting on some awesome tunes, and hitting the open road that appeals to everyone — young or old. It's the sense of freedom, the promise of fun times, and the relative ease that has made road-tripping one of the great American traditions. Every year when the snow melts away, families, groups of friends, and solo wanderers take to the highways for a big adventure.

Having the right gadgets with you can take your road trip to another level, whether they're for practical use, entertainment purposes, or things to keep you safe on your journey. But sometimes it's difficult to know what to pack, and what's just going to add extra weight to your vehicle. Here are eight travel gadgets you should take on your next road trip.

1. Smartphone mount

If you're going to be using your smartphone as a GPS navigation system or music player in your car, you need to do it safely, and installing a smartphone mount is the way to go. There are several that are suitable for any model of car, whether it uses a suction cup for the windshield or a clip for the air vent. Just make sure it's in a place that's easy to see, but doesn't obstruct your view of the road.

2. Coffee handpresso

A coffee handpresso is like carrying your own personal coffee machine no matter where you go, but is so small and portable that it will fit in any handbag or daypack. The handpresso allows you to create a cup of joe in minutes with minimal effort. Like a regular machine, it forces the hot water through the coffee beans to produce a delicious shot of espresso. All you need is your favorite ground coffee beans or capsules, a flask of hot water, and a bit of hand pressure, and you've got a cafe quality cup of coffee on the go. (See also: 10 Tips for Camping Cooking)

3. Solar power bank

If you're on a multiday road trip where you're doing any activities away from the car like hiking, or camping, then it pays to have a portable power source. Solar power banks allow you to charge all of your small devices like phones, tablets, and cameras with the power of the sun. There's no need to worry about running out of power with one of these on hand. (See also: The 5 Best Solar Power Banks)

4. Electric cooler

Quick and easy snacks are one of the most important elements of an epic road trip, but there's nothing worse than opening up the package of food that you've worked so hard to prepare only to find that it's gone bad. An electric cooler is the perfect solution, and there are plenty of varieties to choose from that simply plug into your car's electricity supply. They're also handy for chilling drinks to keep you cool on those long summer drives. (See also: These 15 Road Trip Snacks Make It All About the Journey)

5. Bluetooth speaker

When you're on a road trip, you're probably going to want some entertainment, both for the actual traveling and for when you've parked at each stop along the way. A Bluetooth speaker will allow you to sit around the campfire or in the hotel room listening to your favorite playlists and podcasts.

They can also be used in the car if it's not Bluetooth enabled, and will save you from flipping through radio stations trying to find something you like. Just connect it to your phone or tablet, and you've got your preferred audio at your fingertips. (See also: The 5 Best Waterproof Bluetooth Speakers)

6. Car USB charger

If you're driving a car that lacks built-in USB ports, then a USB charger that fits into the cigarette lighter is the ideal fix. You can use it to charge all of your devices while you're on the go; particularly your smartphone, which will quickly run out of juice if you're using satellite navigation.

7. Multitool

Whether it's a bottle or can opener, a screwdriver, or a knife, there's always an occasion on a road trip where you'll find yourself in need of a particular tool. With a decent multitool in your pocket, you can solve virtually any problem you come across. They come in all shapes and sizes, with hundreds of different attachments to choose from, but even the smaller keychain variety will no doubt get you out of a bind at some point. (See also: 12 Cool Travel Items for Your Summer Vacation)

8. Dashboard camera

Give yourself some peace of mind in the event of being involved in an accident when you're on a road trip with a second set of eyes. Though it's not something you ever want to happen, it pays to be prepared, and a dashboard camera can help prove the exact circumstances of a crash.

Increasingly, people are also using them to capture the scenery around them while driving that they wouldn't otherwise be able to document. Choose one with a higher memory capacity and you could make an incredible time lapse film of your entire journey once you get home.

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This article is from Nick Wharton of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How to Take a 7-Day Cross Country Road Trip for $350 or Less

Holly Johnson — Mon, 18 Jun 2018 08:30:20 +0000

When it comes to the standard family vacation, there's almost nothing more American than the old-fashioned summer road trip. And this type of trip may be more popular than ever thanks to low gas prices and the diversity of destinations within the U.S.

According to the 2017-2018 Portrait of American Travelers study, which is sponsored by travel and hospitality marketing firm MMGY, 85 percent of American vacations take place within the U.S. This figure represents a 7 percent increase from the previous year's numbers, which means 13.9 million more vacations were taken domestically instead of internationally during this study session. Road trips are increasingly popular, with 39 percent of U.S. leisure travel over the last year including a stint on the road, an increase of 17 percent over the prior year.

If you're angling for a road trip this year but hoping to keep costs low, it's smart to start planning now. With some creative thinking, you may be able to cover the bulk of your expenses with rewards and keep your total out-of-pocket costs to a minimum. And this is true no matter where you plan to explore, from the Great Smoky Mountains to the arid deserts of the Southwestern U.S.

Here's how to finagle a seven-night road trip around the U.S. for $350 or less. (See also: How to Have a Fun Family Road Trip Without Breaking Your Budget)

Cover gas with cash back

One of the biggest expenses of any road trip is the cash it will take to fuel your car. The price of this expense can vary depending on your car's fuel economy and how far you plan to travel, but it will mostly like take up a good chunk of your road trip budget.

One of the easiest ways to get your gas covered is by signing up for a cash-back credit card that offers an initial sign-up bonus and gives you ongoing rewards for your spending. With a cash-back card, you can redeem your points for statement credits to cover your gas after your road trip is over.

The key to choosing a cash-back card for this expense is looking for a card with the highest rate of return, hopefully more than the standard 1 percent back. A big sign-up bonus is a plus as well.

Make sure you come up with an idea of the total rewards you'll need to cover your gas purchases ahead of time. AAA has a solid gas cost calculator that can help you determine what you'll spend based on the car you drive and other details. For example, if you plan to drive from Mobile, Alabama to the Grand Canyon in a 2009 Honda Civic that gets 30 miles per gallon on average, this calculator reveals the fuel cost at $146.92 one-way or $293.84 round-trip at today's gas prices.

In that case, you would need to earn nearly $300 in cash-back to cover fuel costs before you go, which shouldn't be that difficult when you combine a sign-up bonus and regular spending on the card.

You may also want to consider how you can earn more cash back on the road on that gas you'll be buying. Cards that earn extra points for spending on gas are ideal for this purpose. (See also: Best Credit Cards for Road Trips)

Pick up a co-branded hotel credit card or two

One huge advantage of road trips is the fact that you may be able to stay in lower-end, roadside hotels and motels. Doing so will make your hotel stays considerably less expensive in points or cash.

A co-branded hotel credit card or two can easily help you cover a week's worth of hotel stays around the country, although the right card for you depends on your itinerary.

Imagine you plan to drive through the Black Hills of South Dakota and all the way to Yellowstone National Park. In that case, earning rewards with the IHG Rewards program could be beneficial if you plan to stay in Winner or Fort Pierre, South Dakota on the way. Both cities offer IHG properties that are just 15,000 IHG Rewards points per night.

On the way from the Black Hills to Yellowstone, you would probably want to drive through Wyoming. Once again, the IHG Rewards program is a great one for this state. In cities like Casper, Lander, and Buffalo, Wyoming, there are numerous IHG properties for 15,000–20,000 IHG Rewards points per night. These destinations (Casper, especially) are also worth a visit on their own and not just a place to lay your head at night. Casper boasts a beautiful mountain backdrop, museums, and hiking trails with waterfalls. What's not to love?

Still, your road map may look totally different. Maybe you're driving through the Everglades to the Florida Keys or exploring the northeastern coast of the U.S. Take the time to explore hotel credit cards and loyalty programs to find options that will work with your itinerary, then consider signing up for a few. By staying outside big cities and closer to the highway, you will find options that cost a lot fewer points. (See also: 7 Travel Hacks for an Affordable Summer Road Trip)

Using flexible travel credit for guided tours and miscellaneous travel expenses

The next challenge you'll face is figuring out how to cover the other components of your trip — expenses like museum entries, park visits, or guided tours. This is one area where you'll want some flexibility in how you can redeem your rewards, which is why cards that offer travel statement credits are perfect.

Many flexible rewards cards offer two points for each dollar you spend, then let you redeem them for a statement credit against any travel purchase at a rate of one cent per point. If you can earn a sign-up bonus worth 50,000 points, for example, you could redeem them for $500 in travel including day trips and excursions.

Also consider checking out a popular credit card rewards program to pay for excursions and tours. This program lets you book an endless number of activities all over the country, and your experience will be free if you pay with points. Options can include once-in-a-lifetime experiences like kayaking tours, guided hikes, food tours, and museums. Basically, you can book almost anything found on Viator.com through this program — except you get the privilege of paying with points.

If you play your cards right and use a combination of flexible rewards and travel credit, you could book all your family's activities for free.

Cover your other travel expenses

If you cover gas with cash-back, book free hotels with hotel points, and pay for excursions and tours with travel credit or other rewards points, the bulk of your trip will be free. So, what does that leave?

Other expenses you'll need to cover may vary depending on your family and travel style, but there's one giant cost you likely can't get away from — food.

This is one area where you'll want to set a daily budget and look for ways to save. Hopefully, you can set a dining budget of $50 per day, or $350 for the week. However, you may spend more or less depending on the age of your kids and your flexibility in dining options. If you love to splurge for a nightly dinner out, you will likely need to spend more than $350 for the week. If your kids are cool with eating PB&Js out of a cooler, on the other hand, you could spend even less. (See also: Best Credit Cards for Dining Out)

Either way, it's possible to save on food while you travel. Here are some strategies to consider and plan for ahead of time:

Booking a hotel with free breakfast: Although you'll likely be covering your hotels with points, many lower end properties bookable with the big hotel brands (Holiday Inn Express, Comfort Inn, Hampton Inn, etc.) offer free breakfast as a perk whether you pay in cash or points. Make sure to scan rewards programs for options that include breakfast for free so you can avoid paying for this meal altogether.
Eat on the road: You can pick up fast food that's fairly healthy, although your options may be limited depending on where you're traveling.
Pack meals ahead of time: Bring a cooler with snacks, sandwiches, and ingredients you can use to make a healthy meal. Lunch meat, bread, fresh fruit, and carrot sticks can easily be brought along on your trip to cover lunch for each day of the week. (See also: These 15 Road Trip Snacks Make It All About the Journey)
Read restaurant reviews and study menus online: One of the most important steps you'll take to save money on food is not walking into the first restaurant you see. Use the internet to search for affordable dining along the route of your trip so you can avoid pricey establishments and dine on a budget instead.

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This article is from Holly Johnson of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

8 Affordable U.S. Destinations for a Weekend Getaway

Lindsay VanSomeren — Thu, 03 May 2018 08:30:08 +0000

Sure, the big-ticket, monthlong trips to Europe and Asia get all the glory, and for good reason. But did you know there are plenty of places you can take an awesome vacation right here within the U.S. at a fraction of the price? After all, spending hours and hours on a cramped plane is no one's idea of a good time, especially when you can take a fun road trip somewhere interesting over a long weekend.

Whether you're looking for a family-friendly getaway or a romantic weekend escape, these affordable destinations will recharge your batteries without draining your wallet. (See also: Best Credit Cards for Road Trips)

1. North Conway, New Hampshire

Even though North Conway has been rated as the most affordable ski town in the U.S. by TripAdvisor, there are plenty of things to do around here during any season. Take a no-cost hike during spring to see flowering trees, and waterfalls rushing with melted snow from the area's steep mountains. In the autumn, enjoy the blazing gold and red hues of the New England leaves on foot or by car.

Or hop aboard one of the scenic train rides you can take from here on the Notch or Valley trains, starting at $18. About an hour from North Conway, you can also ride the world's first mountain-scaling cog train, which takes you straight to the top of Mount Washington, the tallest peak east of the Mississippi.

Hotel rooms start at around $110 per night in June, and there are also several campgrounds and hostels available. (See also: 6 Essential Money-Saving Items to Take on a Camping Road Trip)

2. Willamette Valley, Oregon

If a relaxing and romantic weekend in the northwest is your style, the Willamette Valley wine country might be just for you. This 150-mile-long region stretching from Eugene to Portland is famous for its vineyards, wineries, and breweries (there are over 150 to choose from), and local farm-to-table cuisine. Most wineries and breweries offer tastings, some for less than $10. And if you get bored from all the wine, beer, and fresh produce, you can always check out Portland.

The Valley features plenty of fun and eclectic budget lodging options, such as The Vintages Trailer Resort, which offers lodging at prices as low as $102 per night in June. You can also rent a private home on Airbnb for under $100 per night. (See also: 7 Travel Hacks for an Affordable Road Trip)

3. Louisville, Kentucky

Home of the Kentucky Derby, Louisville is also a town steeped in history, bourbon, and fun. Be sure to check out the historic Brown Hotel to get a bite of the famous "Hot Brown" open-faced sandwich.

There are also plenty of free parks to visit, as well as numerous museums celebrating science, history, bourbon, art, Muhammad Ali, and sports. For a great discount on museums, check out Museum Row's Main Ticket, which offers access to seven of Louisville's top museums for $32 per person. If drinking liquor is more your style, many bourbon distilleries offer tastings and tours starting at around $20.

Accommodations are reasonable, too. Three-star hotel rooms start at around $100 per night in June.

4. Rapid City, South Dakota

Located right next door to the famed Mount Rushmore, Rapid City's been a staple of family road trips for decades. But there's way more to do here than just see the presidents' faces carved on the mountain. Other free attractions include the Chapel in the Hills, a life-size replica of the ancient Norwegian Borgund Stavkirke church; scenic byways; and numerous public parks full of storybook characters, giant dinosaur replicas, and water attractions.

You can easily find a hotel room in Rapid City in the $130 per night range, and as well as a few camping options from $39 per night.

5. Cleveland, Ohio

You might not think of Cleveland as a world-class destination, but think again. There are tons of free things to check out, like nearby Cuyahoga National Park, the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland's free money museum, and the free Cleveland Museum of Art, which houses a permanent collection of works by Monet, Picasso, and van Gogh. You can even ride a trolley around downtown for free.

If you want to spring for some paid (but still cheap) adventures, check out the Cleveland Zoo ($14.95 per person), the Great Lakes Science Center ($16.95 per person), or the world-famous Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ($23 per person if purchased in advance).

Lodging here is also very affordable. You can find three-star hotel rooms starting at about $60 in June.

6. Colorado Springs, Colorado

If you've always wanted to visit scenic Colorado but don't think you can afford the glitzy mountain ski towns, check out Colorado Springs instead. This city is tucked right at the base of the Rockies and offers many free activities, like the aptly-named Garden of the Gods and beautiful scenic drives (one of which goes all the way to the top of Pikes Peak, one of Colorado's famed "fourteeners" — mountains exceeding 14,000 feet in height).

You can also enjoy the sunny Colorado weather on the patio of one of the 32 local breweries, dive into history at one of the city's two castles ($9 or $10 per person, depending on which castle you choose), or visit the nearby ancient Anasazi cliff dwellings ($10 per person).

Once you tire yourself out from all that fresh air and activity, it's easy to find affordable accommodations here for under $150 per night.

7. New Iberia, Louisiana

Outdoor enthusiasts and mystery fans alike will find reasons to like this small town at the seat of Iberia Parish in southern Louisiana. You can walk through Spanish moss-covered forests and soak in the unique Cajun culture that inspired the mystery novels of David Lee Burke, creator of the fictional detective Dave Robicheaux.

But you don't have to have read the books to enjoy the area's fishing and bayou tours. Waterways make up nearly half of the parish — the Louisiana equivalent of a county. Or mosey through the area's plentiful gardens and parks; the town and surrounding areas are drenched in color during spring. Enjoy some local gumbo or shrimp étouffée to complete the experience.

Best of all, lodging in New Iberia is extremely cheap, starting at just $63 per night. If camping's more your style, you can stay in the KOC Kampground for as little as $30 a night.

8. Park City, Utah

If the great outdoors and history are your passions, then you need to check out Park City. This beautiful town surrounded by the Wasatch Mountain Range started out in the 1860s as a silver mining town. Later it became home to two ski resorts that hosted events during the 2002 Winter Olympics. That legacy is preserved at the Utah Olympic Park, which offers two free museums, along with paid adventure courses and a drop tower ($45 for adults and $30 for kids). You can also tour the facility ($12 for adults, and $7 for kids).

Once you've had your fill of adventures, peruse the historic district in downtown Park City. The town offers free public transportation, and the downtown area is full of one-of-a-kind businesses, thanks to its anti-chain policy (no Starbucks here!). Lodging starts at $112 per night.

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This article is from Lindsay VanSomeren of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

6 Essential Money-Saving Items to Take On a Camping Road Trip

Nick Wharton — Mon, 18 Dec 2017 09:30:10 +0000

Camping can be a great way to make a long road trip more affordable and fun. Not only will you get to spend more time in the great outdoors, you can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars by forgoing hotels for at least part of the journey. Boost your savings even further by preparing some of your own meals and bringing along items to keep everyone active and entertained. (See also: 10 Ways to Save Money on a Great American Road Trip)

1. Cooler

One of the best ways to save money on a road trip is to cut down on dining out. Though you might find some reasonably priced eateries along the way, none of them are likely to beat the price of preparing cheap meals for yourself. In order to do this effectively, you'll need a way to keep your perishable groceries cold.

Obviously you're not going to be able to pack things like vegetables and meat and expect them to last for the entire journey. But a cooler does allow you to pick things up along the way and keep them fresh for a short time as you go. You can even get coolers that plug into your car's cigarette lighter and act as mini refrigerators. (See also: These 15 Road Trip Snacks Make It All About the Journey)

2. Water filter

You're going to need to stay hydrated on your journey, and buying drinks at gas stations or stores will quickly add up. Despite the initial cost, purchasing a water filter system will save you plenty of dollars in the long-term, as it will allow you to drink water from virtually any source, whether it’s a public bathroom tap or even a puddle.

There are various products that filter contaminants out of the water so it's safe to drink. These devices range from portable, lightweight straws, to water bottles that incorporate the filter into the design. The best ones filter out over 99 percent of contaminants, including bacteria and parasites, and also strip the water of any bad taste or smell.

3. Basic camping gear

Essentials for sleeping include a tent, a sleeping mat, sleeping bag, and pillow. If you're planning on making camping road trips a regular occurrence then it's worth investing in this equipment, but you could also borrow these items from a friend and not spend a dime.

Campsites are usually very reasonably priced and many come with plenty of modern amenities such as showers, electricity, and even Wi-Fi. (See also: Camping for a Week Is Only $160 at These National Parks)

4. A portable stove

In order to make your own meals, you'll need something to cook them on, and a portable stove is just the thing. They come in all shapes and sizes, but you don't need anything more than a single burner to make a simple, nutritious, and delicious meal in next to no time.

You can set up a portable stove absolutely anywhere outdoors, and unlike a campfire, it isn’t difficult to set up, and it leaves absolutely no trace once you've finished. Not only will a portable stove save you money on food, but there's no need to visit an expensive coffee chain for your daily caffeine fix. Instead, boil some water and make your own.

I personally use the MSR Pocket Rocket because it's efficient, powerful, and very compact. (See also: The 5 Best Camping Stoves)

5. A good rewards credit card

This one can be a real money saver (and moneymaker). Before heading out on a road trip, make sure you have a good rewards credit card that will acquire points for all of your spending during the trip, mainly the money you spend at the pumps and at grocery stores.

The best gas rewards credit cards can earn you cash just for spending on gas. Get one that offers additional bonuses for grocery store stops or dining.

Road trips are inherently expensive, so any little bit of money you can save can really help. If you’re planning your epic road trip for the spring of next year, apply for a card now and start earning rewards on your purchases as soon as possible. (See also: Best Credit Cards for Road Trips)

6. Games

If you've got a family with young kids, keeping them entertained on the road can be difficult. While you’ll certainly want to see some attractions on your trip, you can avoid excess entertainment expenses by taking some engaging games with you.

It's good to take a selection of games that will suit everyone's tastes when you've stopped driving for the day, and don't rule out the humble deck of cards. Get a friendly competition going and the kids will soon forget about hitting up the local overpriced arcade.

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This article is from Nick Wharton of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Avoid These 6 Common Mistakes When Moving Across the Country

Emily Guy Birken — Mon, 13 Nov 2017 08:30:12 +0000

Last summer, my family and I moved from Lafayette, Indiana to Milwaukee, Wisconsin so that my husband could take a new job. Once we got settled in our new house, I politely informed my husband that I would "never, ever move again, so don't even think about asking me."

This reaction to moving is a common one. Moving is incredibly stressful, requiring a great deal of planning, money, time, and flexibility as situations inevitably change. On top of all that, there are a number of easy mistakes to make when planning a move that can add to the stress and the cost of it all — especially if you are moving across the country.

Before you plan your next major move, make sure you protect yourself from these common moving mistakes. (See also: 10 Ways to Save on a Long-Distance Move)

1. Falling victim to a moving scam

Since you're relocating to a different state, it's completely understandable why you might want to hire movers rather than pack up and haul your own stuff in a rental truck. However, it's important to make sure you hire a moving company whom you can trust, since there are a number of scam companies (known in the industry as "rogue operators") out there pulling shady deals.

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), this is what you can expect from a legitimate moving company:

An in-home estimate. Long-distance moving costs are calculated on the distance your stuff has to be hauled and the weight and size of your goods. If a mover offers you a cost estimate sight unseen, it's a red flag that you shouldn't trust them with your stuff.
A copy of Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move. Federal regulations require all registered movers provide their customers with this document.
A contract that includes price estimates, pickup and delivery dates, and insurance coverage amounts.
To pay at the time of delivery. Reputable companies do not request upfront payment.
While it's possible for a moving company to legally make an estimate that is too low, federal law requires registered movers to complete delivery as long as you pay 110 percent of the estimated price.

If any mover you contact does not offer these, then you should choose a different mover. You can also research the background of any interstate mover, including complaints, safety information, licensing, registration status with the Department of Transportation, and company contact information on the FMCSA website. (See also: Moving? Don't Skimp on These Critical Expenses)

2. Waiting until the last minute to plan your move

When we left Lafayette in June 2016, our movers cleared out the house on a Thursday, but the Milwaukee temporary housing provided by my husband's company did not kick in until Saturday. We had two nights in an empty house before we could arrive in Milwaukee.

This particular moving discomfort could have been avoided if we had planned the move better. We waited to set up the temporary housing, which meant we had fewer choices of which nights we could stay.

Our two days of no beds was a relatively minor discomfort. But waiting until the last minute to find a mover or make other major moving plans can cause potentially huge problems. If you have to scramble to find a mover during prime moving season — between May and September — then you are less likely to have the necessary time to do your due diligence to find a reputable mover. You may also find that all of the local rental trucks are already spoken for if you don't call ahead.

3. Forgetting to set up utilities in your new home

Moving day is generally a long and exhausting slog. It's even worse if you finally get into your new home, only to find the lights won't turn on because you forgot to get the utilities set up in your name. This kind of mistake is even tougher to deal with if you move on a weekend and you have to wait until business hours on Monday to make the call to your new utility companies.

Either your real estate agent or your landlord should be able to provide you with the contact information for each utility you will need in your new home. About two weeks before your move, contact the local utility companies to give them ample time to turn everything on and/or transfer everything into your name.

4. Putting off purging, prioritizing, and packing

It can hardly be a coincidence that no one has ever coined the expression "as fun and exciting as packing!" Packing is the opposite of a good time, and many a mover has put off doing the important work of sorting and packing their stuff until moving day.

There are a couple of reasons why this is a big mistake. Not only does it add to your stress as you get closer to your move, but you also end up putting off the process of prioritizing and purging your stuff. You may end up packing things you would have been happy to sell or give away, adding to the total cost of your move. (See also: Moving? 3 Things to Take, and 3 Things to Leave Behind)

5. Forgetting to label your boxes

Even though my family has been in our new home for over a year, there are still piles of unopened boxes in our basement, each labeled with some variation of the world "miscellaneous."

Don't get me wrong, there is a bit of a Christmas morning feel to opening these mystery boxes. I was delighted to find some of our kitchen utensils (along with a couple of framed pictures, a purse or two, and some shoes) in one recently-opened box. But my life would be a lot easier if I knew what was in each box before having to open it.

I had forgotten just how long the unpacking process can take, and I had assumed that I'd be unpacking these boxes within a few weeks of packing them, so I'd remember what had been put into "miscellaneous" boxes, sweet optimist that I was.

As you pack, make sure you label each box as specifically as you can. You'll be much happier knowing you can put your hands on important things and knowing which boxes can wait a few weeks (or more than a year) to be officially unpacked.

6. Thinking of it as a sprint, when it's actually a marathon

Part of the reason why I hate moving is how much upheaval it causes in my family's life. It's my tendency to try to rush through that upheaval as quickly as possible in order to get life back to normal. When I was a single woman in my 20s, I would unpack from moves in a two-or-three day whirlwind, refusing to rest until each and every box was emptied and broken down, and all of my possessions had a new home.

But moving cross-country with a family in tow doesn't offer the same kind of opportunities for such an unpack-a-thon. Instead of trying to get everything done as quickly as humanly possible, it's psychologically better to work steadily but surely, on everything you need to do for pre-move, moving day, and the great unpacking. That will help you maintain the energy you need to keep going through the long process of relocating.

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This article is from Emily Guy Birken of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

10 Places to Try the Airstream Lifestyle Before You Buy One

Carrie Kirby — Thu, 07 Sep 2017 08:31:04 +0000

Airstream trailers are enjoying an Instagram-era resurgence. Their shiny, curvy exteriors and tiny-home interiors are just so dreamy that more and more of us are indulging in Airstream getaways. But the cold-as-aluminum reality is that a new Airstream trailer can cost upwards of $100,000, which is not an amount most of us would lay down without knowing for sure whether sleeping in a bunk beneath a riveted ceiling would make us claustrophobic or euphoric.

Fortunately, a growing number of Airstream parks, motels, and Airbnb rentals are allowing stream-dreamers to try before they buy. Most of these accommodations are more glamping than roughing it, so don't be surprised if prices are comparable to hotels. (See also: 5 Ways to Save on Your Next Glamping Trip)

1. Kate's Lazy Desert Airstream Motel in Landers, California

Set in the ethereal Mojave High Desert outside Joshua Tree National Park, this motel features six vintage Airstream trailers decorated by artists in themes such as Hot Lava (you feel like you're inside a lava lamp) and Tiki. But the real draw is that the park is influenced by the wacky style of the owner, Kate Pierson, of the B-52s. Bang, bang on the door, baby!

Cost: $175 to $200 per night.

2. The Shady Dell Vintage Trailer Court in Bisbee, Arizona

Operating since 1927, this resort along Highway 80 celebrates the retro kitsch of the Airstream lifestyle. Ten lovingly restored vintage trailers, including a 1955 Airstream, pair period decorations with modern comforts.

Cost: $85 to $95 per night.

3. Shooting Star RV Resort in Escalante, Utah

Imagine that you're hanging in John Wayne's trailer on set of John Ford's The Searchers. Well, you won't have to stretch your imagination far if you stay in The Duke, just one of eight Hollywood-themed Airstreams at this glamping oasis in the wilderness.

As if the trailers weren't enough of a Hollywood escape, after sunset you can watch a movie outside, sitting in a classic car just like a drive-in of yore.

Cost: $129 to $149 a night.

4. The Metro Hotel in Petaluma, California

This wine country boutique hotel features two Airstream trailers with brightly colored bedding and sleek modern interiors. One trailer is a 22-foot Bambi model; the other is a limited-edition 28-footer with a full kitchen and luxe bathroom. All guests get pastries and coffee in the morning, and The Metro offers a cafe and bike rentals for pedaling into historic downtown Petaluma.

Cost: $149 to $235 a night.

5. The Starlux Boutique Hotel in Wildwood, New Jersey

Set on the Jersey Shore, this hotel has two doo-wop-inspired trailers for you to stay in swanky style, each with a double bed, a day bed, private bathroom, kitchenette, and lava lamp. You also have access to the hotel pool, and the beach and boardwalk are steps away.

Cost: $81 to $211 a night.

6. Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA in Maine

Sleep in a modern 26-foot Airstream equipped with a queen bed, a full bath with shower, and a Keurig coffee maker. This campground is on the same island as Acadia National Park. And a 10-minute drive gets you to the gorgeous coastline and freshwater lakes in the area.

Cost: $185 a night.

7. Caravan Outpost in Ojai, California

In the heart of the bohemian and artsy town of Ojai, Caravan Outpost consists of 11 "curated" Airstream trailers set in an urban garden. Outdoor movie nights and pop-up eateries add to the fun. Each trailer comes with complimentary bikes to explore the Ojai path.

Cost: $147 to $309 a night.

8. Wine Country Retreat in Temecula, California

Set in the heart of the Temecula wine country, this Airbnb rental features a pool, an on-site vineyard, and 40 wineries within minutes. You can also watch hot air balloons float from the deck.

Cost: $119 a night and up.

9. Malibu Dream Airstream in Malibu, California

Five hundred dollars might seem like a lot to sleep in a trailer, but how gorgeous is this Airstream perched on a bluff above a Malibu beach? Gorgeous enough that Vogue chose it as the backdrop for a photo shoot of bffs Taylor Swift and Karlie Kloss. And the entire ocean-facing side opens up for an endlessly gorgeous view.

Cost: $500 per night and up.

10. Airstream2go, various locations

But what if stationary wasn't the way you envisioned your Airstream adventure? After all, these babies were made to roll. This company will rent you one of their 28-foot International Signature Series Airstreams, laid out to sleep up to six, and a Chevy Tahoe to tow it with. They'll even plan an itinerary and program your GPS for you. Sample trips include driving through the Berkshires, exploring Coastal Maine, or rambling through the Southwest. (See also: 9 of the Craziest, Coolest Airbnb Listings)

Cost: Starts at $2,300 for three days and tops out at $17,500 for two weeks during peak season. Prices include the SUV to tow.

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This article is from Carrie Kirby of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How to Have a Fun Family Road Trip Without Breaking Your Budget

Annie Mueller — Thu, 29 Jun 2017 09:00:10 +0000

You've got your budget-friendly destination. You found the best hotel rate. You've got activities and meals in mind that won't eat up your savings. But what about the expense of the actual travel? From snacks to fuel to entertainment to handling the unexpected, these tips will help you keep costs low while you're on the road.

Be strategic with fuel

There's not much you can do to control the cost of fuel, but you can make sure your vehicle is as fuel-efficient as possible. The best way to do that is to keep your car well maintained. Keep up with regular oil changes and tire alignment, and your car will run cleaner, cooler, and have less drag.

Also, don't wait until your tank is on empty and you're forced to use the nearest gas station. Instead, use a service like GasBuddy to find nearby gas stations with the best fuel prices. Plan your stops accordingly; if you're traveling with young kids, chances are one of them will need to use the restroom, anyway. (See also: Best Credit Cards for Road Trips)

Pack snacks and beverages

The most cost-efficient way to have plenty of snacks on a road trip is to bring your own. You can't be sure what fast food joint or gas station offers will be available. And how much beef jerky can you eat before you start to regret it? Buy or make your family's favorite snack foods in bulk before you leave, then package into single servings. Choose snacks that make the least possible mess. It's much easier to vacuum up crumbs than it is to clean gummy, sticky stains from car upholstery.

Water is the best beverage for road trips. Take a cooler with ice and a couple of one-gallon jugs filled with fresh water. Refill individual bottles as needed. Juice, tea, or soda will lead to endless needs for bathroom breaks. Coffee, of course, fuels many drivers, as well. I prefer to start the journey with my own home-brewed coffee in my travel mug. You can also pick up coffee to go from any restaurant or gas station for very little. (See also: These 15 Road Trip Snacks Make It All About the Journey)

Bring on-the-go entertainment

The biggest challenge for road trips with children is keeping them entertained. As with food, bringing your own entertainment options from home saves time and money.

You don't need special items for road trip entertainment; you just need portable options. Mess-free art materials are great: colored pencils, washable markers, and sketchbooks. Download a selection of audiobooks before you go; Librivox offers hundreds for free. Update your music playlists, and download movies for them to watch on tablets you bring along. (See also: 9 Things You Must Do If You're Traveling With Kids)

Travel based on time of day

The best time of day to travel depends on time of the year, personal preference, destination, and the length of the trip. Many parents of young children find it easier to travel at night, when the kids will sleep for most of the way. That's a great option if the driver can stay awake.

During the summer, driving at night can also keep the temperature lower, meaning less stress on the engine and better fuel efficiency. The calculable savings is minimal, so compare it to the increased coffee you'll require to drive all night before you make a decision.

The other factor to consider is traffic. If your timing will have you entering a major city at rush hour, change it. Leave earlier, leave later, or plan an extended rest stop along the way. Sitting in traffic is uncomfortable and stressful, and the stop-and-go movement is hard on your car and fuel efficiency.

Prep for travel emergencies

Take baby wipes. I cannot stress enough how handy, no, how essential a pack of baby wipes is in any car. Don't have a baby? Doesn't matter. Baby wipes will save the day in so many ways.

Coffee spill? Baby wipe. Messy face? Baby wipe. No napkins from the takeout place? Baby wipes. Smelling a little less-than-fresh after eight hours on the road? Baby wipes.

A first aid kit is essential, too. Buy a pre-packed one, or make your own and keep it in the car. You can include the essential items you know you'll use the most, as well as any specialized care items you might need.

The other item that can save you from excess stress and cost is a car emergency kit. You should have the supplies to change a tire as well as a spare tire, flares, and jumper cables. It's helpful to have a flashlight and basic tools on hand, as well. I've found it's also helpful to have someone who's adept at changing tires. (See also: The 5 Best Jump Starter Kits)

Regardless of your skill level, though, preparation can save you in many ways. When you're prepared with snacks, entertainment, and emergency supplies you'll spend less and be more relaxed. That makes for a much better road trip.

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This article is from Annie Mueller of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

8 Exciting Ways to See the Country This Summer

Mikey Rox — Wed, 28 Jun 2017 08:31:10 +0000

Tired of the same old vacation routine? Looking to explore new destinations without leaving the U-S of A? Shake things up this summer by stepping out of your comfort zone and see the country with these exciting summer travel ideas.

1. Set off on a surprise excursion

Recently I met the owners of travel company Pack Up + Go, and I was immediately intrigued when they explained what set it apart from other tourism outfits. The gist of their operation is that they plan three-day surprise getaways for their customers based on a few criteria — like travel budget, travel dates, preferences, and personal information — so they can book all your transportation and accommodations for you.

A week before you leave, you'll receive an email with the weather forecast for your secret destination, recommended items to pack (like bathing suits or down parkas), any luggage restrictions, and when and where to catch your transportation. A few days before your trip, an envelope arrives, and you are not allowed to open it, lest you ruin the fun. Inside the envelope that you shouldn't even peek in until you arrive at your transportation hub are directions to your accommodations and a curated list of recommendations for everything from cafes, to restaurants and night life, to rainy day activities.

While this may not be the ideal option for hot- or cold-weather adverse travelers — you get no say in where you end up (though the planners do take into consideration where you've already been) — Pack Up + Go is a fresh, fun option to explore a new area you may never have chosen to visit yourself.

2. Sleep over with Airbnb-style camping

I love Airbnb and camping, which is why I'm an early adopter of Tentrr, a new app-based travel service that helps connect would-be campers to property owners who have erected high-quality campsites on their properties with the help of the Tentrr crew. Currently there are 55 sites available, mostly in New York, which will certainly expand outside the state and across the country as the service gains popularity and continues to grow.

Adhering to the standard setup guidelines provided by Tentrr, each site includes a large canvas tent, generally equipped to fit five or six campers (though some sites allow up to eight campers); a fire pit, picnic table, five-gallon water container, outdoor camp toilet, queen size cot, metal grill, two lounge chairs, dry food storage, and an outdoor sun shower. All you have to do is bring the food, drinks, games, and whatever else you need to stay comfortable for a couple days in the great outdoors.

There are properties available to please every type of traveler, including those close to beaches, forests, meadows, ponds and lakes, rivers and streams, and breathtaking views of the surroundings. I personally booked a trip later this summer at a mountain hideaway with a private pond. Activities in the area included canoeing/kayaking, hiking, road biking, white water rafting, fishing, golf, wineries and distilleries, a local flea market, and more. Most sites are available for between $120 and $150 total per night. The price doesn't increase based on the number of campers; instead it remains a flat rate that you can split with your friends to make your trip an incredibly low-cost, but memorable getaway. (See also: 5 Ways to Save on Your Next Glamping Trip)

3. Hit the road on a rental motorcycle

You'll never get me on a motorcycle (I can barely operate an electric can opener without hurting myself), but if you're a dedicated biker EagleRider, the world's largest motorcycle tourism company, can help you achieve your sightseeing goals. With your monthly membership in Club EagleRider ($29/month, plus a $29 sign-up fee), you receive one free rental day and free or discounted rates on additional rental days.

4. Cross the country via train

I had almost given up on rail travel because of the increasing prices — trips from my home in Manhattan to visit my family in Baltimore were sometimes over $300 round-trip, compared to below $50 for a round-trip bus ride — but when I heard about supersaver Derek Low's four-day $429 cross-country rail trip, starting in San Francisco and ending in New York City — the idea was worth revisiting. Thanks to his 15-day, eight-ride Amtrak rail pass, Low efficiently traveled from coast to coast in less than 96 hours — and enjoyed sightseeing at a few cities in between, like Denver, Salt Lake City, and Chicago — while still having several trips remaining on his pass to visit a few more quick destinations on his way back out West.

If you don't plan to make any stops, however, and just want to observe nature from the comfort of your train car, you can shave a couple hundred dollars off what he spent to bring it down to about $213, according to Low's account of his adventure. If you don't think you're savvy enough to score these deals on your own, Low offers to arrange your entire trip for you for a fee of $49. (See also: 5 Fun, Affordable Train Trips)

5. Deliver cars, campers, and RVs to their owners

Did you know that you can save a ton of money and subsidize your road-based vacation transportation costs by renting RVs, campervans, motor homes, and cars for as low as $1 day? Rental site imoova.com works with traditional rental companies to offer its customers one-way travel opportunities to desired locations. How can that be, you ask? Simple. You're not just embarking on your own travels; you're also helping the rental companies save money on hiring expensive drivers to return the vehicles back to their home bases by doing it for them.

If you're considering a road trip this year, check imoova to see what you can come up with. The hundreds of dollars you could save will leave you with more money for better dinners, a couple more drinks, and more exciting activities along the way.

6. Self-tour a new area on foot

If you like to investigate new cities and neighborhoods on foot, download the Sidewalk app to tap into a free library of city walks that you can do on your own time. These insider-curated walks provide a local's perspective on your surroundings (they're created by the very people who live there) giving you the money-saving freedom to be your own tour guide. The app just launched this spring, but it already contains 60 walks you can enjoy in San Francisco, New York, Los Angeles, and Seattle, with more cities coming soon.

7. Follow the beaten paths

When you prefer the seclusion and meditative opportunities of nature, enlist AllTrails as your travel companion. The free web- and app-based service gives you access to 50,000-plus trail maps (hiking and running) along with directions directly to the trailhead from wherever you are. You also can filter trails by difficulty, distance, rating, amenities (like waterfalls), and identify kid- and dog-friendly trails. When you're done, leave a review and share photos of your experience to enhance the experience for others.

8. Challenge your mental and physical abilities

Unlike many other fitness challenges, which last a few hours or less, Cotopaxi Questival is a 24-hour adventure series that turns this sometimes-hardcore genre into a community-driven social event.

Teams of two to six are tasked with hundreds of challenges over the 24-hour period, from Foodie (eat a taco with no hands), to Community (send a postcard to a veteran, or pick up trash at a local beach), to Adventurous (camp under the stars, run a mile in fancy dress), and more.

There are 50 locations all over the country from which to choose that are held individually throughout the year. Challenges can change to suit the location, too, so you won't know what's coming your way until 24 hours before your own event.

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10 Affordable Water Parks You Can Drive To

Holly Johnson — Thu, 01 Jun 2017 08:30:13 +0000

Planning a summer vacation with the kids? While you hammer out the details, you'll need to plan on spending a pretty penny. According to an Allianz Travel Insurance study, the average family planned to spend $1,798 on travel last summer. That's no small chunk of change.

Of course, summer travel is even more expensive if you fly your whole family to a faraway destination, or visit an expensive theme park like Disney World. Even if you use credit card travel rewards to pay for your airfare or hotel, you can expect to spend a bundle.

But, what if you could have just as much fun without all those costs? Some of the nation's best water parks offer exceptional value within driving distance of a slew of major cities. (See also: 9 Things You Must Do If You're Traveling With Kids)

If you want to skip airfare but still take the kids on a fun, warm-weather trip they'll never forget, consider one of these options.

1. Holiday World and Splashin' Safari — Santa Claus, Indiana

Holiday World and Splashin' Safari is the ultimate stop for a few days of family fun. The park offers both roller coasters and an expansive water park all for one low price. As a bonus, both parks offer free sunscreen and free fountain drinks all day long.

One-day admission to both parks starts at around $26 per person, although prices increase through peak months of July and August. Check out the giant Thunderbird roller coaster or the popular Raven coaster. Or, ride the park's giant water coasters with seating for six. Pitch a tent next door at the popular Lake Rudolph Campground and RV Resort for affordable camping fun and proximity to the parks.

2. Schlitterbahn South Padre Island Water Park — Texas

Schlitterbahn South Padre Island Water Park offers one of the largest water parks in southern Texas, along with an on-site hotel for ultimate convenience and comfort. Water park-only tickets start at just $51 for adults and $39 for kids. Kids age two and under are free.

Once you arrive, you can float the day away in a lazy river dotted with rapids, boogie board in a wave pool, or thrill your way down more than a half-dozen water slides. Schlitterbahn also offers splash pads and small rides for the little ones, along with plenty of spots for shade and rest.

3. Kalahari Resorts — Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Wisconsin Dells is a city known for its many, many water parks and outsized attractions. Kalahari Resorts offers one of the broadest selections of both indoor and outdoor water rides. Their indoor water park alone is 125,000 square feet, while the outdoor park features exciting water races, a meandering river, whirlpool spas, water slides that zip and turn, and so much more.

With an on-site room booked, you might qualify for free water park passes. If you stay off-site, water park-only passes start at $34, and kids under the age of two are free.

4. Water Country USA — Williamsburg, Virginia

Water Country USA offers extreme value and fun in the Williamsburg, Virginia area. Families can experience a white water rafting adventure together on the Big Daddy Falls, slide through curving chutes on the Colossal Curl, or fly face-first down the Nitro Racer. For the little ones, there are tiny slides, splash zones, and plenty of shade.

A one-day water park ticket starts at $60 at the gate, but you can scoop one up for as low as $40 online, depending on the date. You can also buy a combo ticket that includes admission to the adjacent Busch Gardens for $80 online or $120 at the door.

5. Legoland California Resort — Carlsbad, California

West Coast families can delight in numerous easy-to-reach water parks, including Legoland California Resort. Here, you can build your own rafts incorporating giant Legos, get blasted by water cannons in the Joker Soaker, ride the Orange Rush through its twists and turns, and master an array of other water coasters built for kids and adults of all ages.

You can get two-day admissions to both Legoland and its water park for $89 for kids under 13, and $95 for everyone else.

6. Dollywood's Splash Country Water Park — Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

Families can enjoy mountain scenery and cool down in the waters of Dollywood's Splash Country Water Park. Race one another down the TailSpin Racer, take the Big Bear Plunge in a family floater made for five, or play with the little ones in their own special park within a park, Little Creek Falls.

Driving distance from many places in the South, Dollywood also offers a theme park perfect for family affairs. One-day admission to the theme park starts at $67 for adults and $54 for kids ages four to 11. Water park admission is $49 for adults, $44 for kids.

7. Roaring Springs Water Park — Meridian, Idaho

Roaring Springs is a sprawling water park in southern Idaho that offers fun for the whole family. Ride the new Corkscrew Cavern looping water slide, relax in a private cabana, speed down the nearly vertical Cliffhanger, or float in the wave simulator all day long. Of course, there are plenty of dining options available, too, from pizza to salads.

Full-day admission for adults is $32, while kids under 48" are $27. Children ages three and under are free.

8. Water-Zoo — Clinton, Oklahoma

Oklahoma's Water-Zoo offers an array of indoor water slides and rides that will delight even the pickiest young traveler. Inside, you'll find more than 300,000 gallons of water, 500 feet of water slides, a wave pool, a lazy and crazy river, and a small slide for little kids, too.

Admission is $23.49 for guests under 48", and $34.99 for everyone else. Children ages three and under are free.

9. Six Flags White Water — Atlanta, Georgia

Six Flags of Atlanta offers a water park filled with fun and crazy rides to keep the kids entertained. The Wahoo Racer lets you zip past your family and friends in a six-lane water race. You can also swoosh down the Bahama Bob slide, or ride the waves in the 700,000-gallon Atlanta Ocean Wave Pool. There are nearly two-dozen water attractions for guests of all ages (and sizes) to enjoy.

You'll save big here, too. Advance purchase tickets are $40, and children ages two and under are free.

10. Wild Waves Theme & Water Park — Federal Way, Washington

Wild Waves offers both roller coasters and water rides in a single, inspiring setting. The water park features eight wet and wacky attractions, including a giant wave pool, relaxing river, warming tubs, and thrilling water coasters for the daredevils in your crew.

Summer entrance is surprisingly cheap for families, especially if you prepay online. You can get advance purchase starting at $17 for adults and children. Adult tickets go up to $30 later in the season. Kids ages three and younger are always free.

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This article is from Holly Johnson of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Eat These 6 Foods to Stay Healthy While Traveling

Amanda Gokee — Thu, 19 Jan 2017 10:00:17 +0000

Traveling often means eating foods that are outside of your normal routine, which can be a fun part of any cultural experience. Yet it can also pose a very real challenge when trying to stay healthy. If you're not paying attention, it can be easy to lose track of what you're eating and how much you're eating.

But staying healthy in a foreign place doesn't have to be complicated. Here are six foods (and a drink) you can usually find that will help you stay energized and healthy even when you're away from home.

1. Seasonal Produce

Eating foods that are fresh and locally grown can go a long way toward keeping you healthy on the road. Anything that hasn't been processed and changed from its original form shouldn't have a lot of empty calories or bad-for-you ingredients. Experiment with exotic fruits and vegetables that you can't find back home. It might not be what you're used to, but local fruits and veggies will give you the fiber and vitamins your body needs to function properly.

2. Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are one of those trendy superfoods you've surely been hearing about. It's a species of flowering plant in the mint family native to Mexico. Historically, it was a staple of the Mayan and Aztec diets. You can find chia seeds throughout South America.

Chia seeds are low calorie, but packed with energy, protein, and antioxidants. Plus, chia seeds are full of fiber to help you feel full for longer and aid digestion when you're trying lots of new foods.

3. Healthy Grains

There is a wide variety of grains that are extremely beneficial to your health. Look for whole grains when you choose your bread or pasta. Quinoa is full of fiber and protein. Tabbouleh is very common in the Middle East. You may also find couscous, oats, or amaranth, depending on where you go.

4. Chickpeas and Hummus

Chickpeas are relatively easy to find when you're traveling, all across the western world — in India, Africa, throughout the Middle East, and South America. They are very rich in fiber and especially delicious when whipped into a rich hummus dip that you can eat as a dip for vegetables, chips, or as an accompaniment to a salad.

5. Rice

Rice is an excellent carbohydrate that you can find in many parts of the world. But that's not the only reason it makes this list. Varieties of rice like wild rice and brown rice are complex carbohydrates, which helps you feel full longer.

Rice and beans is a very affordable meal that you'll find in many parts of the world and that's because together, these two form a complete protein.

6. Water

Okay, so maybe it doesn't technically qualify as a "food" per se, but drinking water during your travels is arguably the single most important thing you can do to keep your body healthy and your mind clear.

Dehydration is the cause of many of the most common problems that travelers face, like fatigue and headaches. Keeping your body hydrated will do wonders for your health. It can help you aid digestion and keep you feeling energized.

Pay attention to how much water you are drinking every day and bring a reusable water bottle on your trip so you can always have water with you.

By giving your body a balanced mix of healthy foods and plenty of water, you can help ensure that you are feeling good wherever your travels may take you.

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This article is from Amanda Gokee of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

These 15 Road Trip Snacks Make It All About the Journey

Marla Walters — Fri, 05 Aug 2016 10:30:07 +0000

As children of the '60s, my husband and I spent a lot of time in hot station wagons on car trips. Stopping for gas meant gas only, not junk food, and a trip to the bathroom. Eating out was rarely an option. Instead, we were fed car snacks, and occasionally had a picnic lunch. To this day, on even short trips, my husband and I pack food for the road.

My mother elevated road trip food to an art form, using a special picnic basket, and whipping up special foods we didn't usually just have around the house. My dad would find nice spots to stop and picnic so the trip was broken up into pleasant outings.

You'll want to pack small ice chests with blue ice blocks to store water, other beverages, any perishable snacks, and wet washcloths, packed in a sandwich bag (nice for cooling off or a good wiping down). Stay away from greasy or oily foods, which are not only messy, but may upset stomachs. Also, avoid foods and drinks that stain if spilled.

Here are 15 delicious, frugal road trip snacks to keep you going.

1. Homemade Trail Mix

Sure, you can buy it all pre-mixed, but why not make it yourself and save some money? "Classic" trail mix usually contains cashews, peanuts, almonds, raisins, and M&M's. Before buying all of those ingredients, though, check your pantry for dried fruit, other nuts, and cereal. You might as well use those up. If nuts or cereal are a little stale, just toast in a low oven (200ºF) for about 10 minutes to crisp them up. Nice additions are craisins, coconut pieces, crackers, and pretzels.

2. Energy Bars

These energy bars, which are extremely popular in Hawaii, travel well and aren't messy like traditional crumbly granola bars. Store the bars individually in waxed paper; twist the ends to seal.

3. Fruit

Select fruit that travels well. This rules out peaches, nectarines, and bananas. Stick to apples, grapes, clementines, oranges, and other nonstaining, non-smelly, and non-sticky fruits.

4. Veggies

You'll feel pretty virtuous if you snack on veggies while you cruise the highway. Good travelers are: baby carrots, snap peas, celery sticks, and even radishes. Wash and pack into small plastic bags; store in the ice chest to keep them more refreshing and crispy.

5. Nuts

Nuts are a great snack for road trips, but you'll pay more if you buy them in individual packages or cans. Make your own roasted, salted nuts and pack into small snack-sized bags. I like the addition of curry powder, or cumin and red pepper flakes.

6. Snack Mix

My mother cranked this classic snack mix out at regular intervals (in the oven, though, not the microwave). I still love it. Try substituting goldfish crackers for the bagel chips, and toss in some oregano. Great stuff.

7. Cheese

Was string cheese developed for road trips? It's such a perfect car snack. Keep it frugal by buying the large bags, not the individual sticks.

8. Soup

Mom filled a large thermos with soup when we were heading someplace chilly. I recommend pulling the car over for a soup break, lest you burn yourself or make a mess. Some of my mom's tried-and-true were clam chowder, turkey noodle, and split pea. She'd bring along breadsticks, too, to round things out.

9. Sandwiches

I don't like sandwiches on road trips, normally, because they tend to get mushy and I have a phobia about that. There is one exception, though: peanut butter sandwiches. Don't be feeding kids egg salad or tuna unless you want to ride the vomit comet.

10. Animal Crackers

I love these, in their colorful, tiny circus-print boxes. They still entertain me, and they are cholesterol-free.

11. Jerky

Pack beef, turkey, or even fish jerky for a non-messy, high-protein treat.

12. Muffins

Either made sweet or savory, muffins are portable and low on the "messiness" scale. These zucchini-chocolate chip muffins will be a hit.

13. Popcorn

Popcorn has one disadvantage: You'll need to vacuum after the trip. However, it's crunchy and delicious. Try gussying it up with this black pepper and parm recipe.

14. "Fried" Chicken

Because it's oven-baked, it meets my road trip non-greasy criteria. Bake the night before and chill.

15. Pinwheels

These tortilla pinwheels pass the road test because they are a perfect bite size. They're also non-messy and non-greasy.

What else makes for a great road trip snack? Share with us!

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This article is from Marla Walters of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

10 Ways to Save Money on a Great American Road Trip

Darcie Connell — Mon, 24 Mar 2014 10:24:17 +0000

The United States of America is a massive country — the third largest in the world (after Russia and Canada) in fact. One of the best ways to explore the U.S. is on a good 'ol American road trip.

But with the economy still in a slump and gas prices at $3.62 at publication time (up $0.85 from $2.77 in 2007), what's a traveler to do?

Taking a quintessential American road trip doesn't have to drain your bank account if you follow these ten money-saving tips on an American road trip. (See also: How to Take Frugal Road Trips)

Drive the Speed Limit

According to The Union of Concerned Scientists "Going 65 mph on the highway instead of 75 can cut your fuel use up to 20 percent. " An easy way to monitor your speed is to use cruise control. Not only will it increase your fuel efficiency, it will also prevent any unwanted speeding tickets which can reach over $200 depending on how fast you're driving and the state you're in.

Skip Gas Station Snacks and Fast Food

Gas stations are notorious for luring patrons into their store to use the restroom and spend money on drinks, snacks, and souvenirs. Don't let them tempt you!

Instead, pack a cooler before you hit the road with homemade and healthy snacks and drinks. Some inexpensive and easy to eat items are sandwiches, salads like potato salad and macaroni salad, and trail mix. (See also: Delicious, Healthy, Frugal Snacks)

Another way to avoid these temptations is to stop at an interstate rest area for picnic benches and clean restrooms instead of going to a fast food restaurant or gas station.

Camp

The best part of an American road trip is enjoying the great outdoors. And what better way to experience the wilderness than to camp? National and state park camping fees range from $10 to $50 dollars per night versus staying in a hotel or motel that range from $75 to $200 dollars.

If you don't have camping gear, you can get a bare-bones tent and sleeping bag from your favorite discount retailer for less than $30 each.

Check Gas Prices

Gas prices can vary significantly by location and the gas station, upwards of $0.50 per gallon. Watch gas prices as you drive or check your mobile phone to find the best gas prices. Also, avoid using your credit or ATM card. Many gas stations will charge an additional fee for not paying with cash. (See also: How to Live a Cash-Only Life)

Plan a Route

While it can be fun to drive aimlessly on a road trip, chances are you'll end up paying a lot more for gas, tolls, and accommodations. By planning a route, you'll avoid driving unnecessary distances and can bypass road tolls. Also, you can book your accommodations or campsite ahead of time to ensure you get a room or a spot.

You can pick up free road maps at any visitor center (more on this in a minute) or pre-plan your route with Google maps.

Check Your Tire Pressure (and More)

Before you hit the road, make sure your car is in tip-top shape. Get a tune up and check the oil, water, and tire pressure.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, "You can improve your gas mileage by up to 3.3 percent by keeping your tires inflated to the proper pressure, by 1–2 percent by using the manufacturer's recommended grade of motor oil, [and] fixing a car that is noticeably out of tune or has failed an emissions test by an average of 4 percent."

Add it all up and you get an estimated 9.3% improved fuel efficiency just by monitoring your car's health and fluid levels. (See also: 6 Tips to Keep Your Car Running Longer)

Negotiate and Ask for Discounts

Just because an item has a sticker price, doesn't mean it's not negotiable. Always ask for specials, discounts, or if a price is negotiable. Many companies offer discounts for students, seniors, military, AAA members, etc.

After all, it never hurts to just ask.

Offer a Rideshare

Part of the fun of a road trip is to push yourself outside your comfort zone and meet new people. So what better way than to offer a rideshare? A rideshare is offering someone a ride somewhere, usually in exchange for gas money. Think of it like getting paid to pick up a hitchhiker.

You can meet and connect with people on Craigslist.org under a specific city's "rideshare" category.

Contact Visitor Centers

Most cities in the United States have visitor centers equipped with helpful staff to help plan your trip, offer coupons and maps, and provide budget-minded options for meals, accommodations, and activities… some even free. So, take advantage of these visitor centers to save big bucks on your road trip.

Don't Be a Tourist

Tourists spend money; locals don't. So even if you're not a local, act like one and save some money along the way. (See also: Tap Into the Local Scene While Traveling)

First, skip overpriced and overrated tourist attractions. Usually you can tell if it's a tourist attraction by the number of billboards they have along the interstate or highway. The more billboards, the more overrated.

Second, don't go souvenir shopping. Who really wants a shot glass or sweatshirt with the name of a city they've never been? Nobody, so forget gift giving. If you must do something, take a picture of yourself holding a custom sign for the person and post it to Facebook (free) or send a postcard ($1) instead.

Third, take a walking tour of the city. Along the way, ask a local what they would do if they had the day off and were working on a budget. Chances are you'll get a handful of fun, inexpensive, and off-the-beaten-path activities.

So even with a down economy, globetrotters can still experience the U.S. by road trip and on a shoestring budget.

How have you saved money on a road trip? Please share in comments!

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This article is from Darcie Connell of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Taking Frugal Road Trips (Even When Gas Prices Are High)

Mikey Rox — Thu, 02 May 2013 10:24:44 +0000

Vacation season is fast approaching — and it’s time for you to solidify your plans. If you’re looking for an adventure outside of a resort or your Aunt Em’s farm, consider a road trip. Not only will you get to spend lots of quality time with your trip mates (for better or worse), but you’ll have incredible stories and memories that you just can’t get on a generic vacation. (See also: 5 Fun and Frugal Ideas for Family Road Trips)

Given the price of travel these days, specifically gasoline, how can you throw caution to wind and hit the road without draining your 401(k)? Consider these tips.

Gas

After food and lodging, gasoline will be your biggest travel expense. With some clever planning, you can trim the cost of filling your tank.

Pack Light

The more passengers in your vehicle during the road trip, the more ways you can split the cost of gas. But be careful. Each passenger will weigh down the vehicle, causing it to burn more fuel along the way. For every extra 100 pounds, you can expect to reduce your MPG by up to 2%. In that case, you’ll have to be smarter and lighter in your packing — unless your suitcase can suddenly pay at the pump, too.

Go Where Gas Is Cheap

Plan your route so that you’re traveling through places (or at least not stopping to fuel up) where gas is not at a premium. For instance, if you’re driving from Baltimore to Boston, get gas in lower-price places like New Jersey instead of filling up in New York. To save on gas most efficiently, avoid top-tier gas destinations altogether and plan your trip to places that are consistently affordable or less than the national average.

Drive the Right Car

If you’re traveling with passengers who all own a vehicle of their own, discuss beforehand whose vehicle has the best fuel economy. If you own a Ford F-150 pickup truck and your friend owns a Prius, it shouldn’t take an engineering degree from MIT to help you decide which vehicle is best. (Although it might make sense to leave the Prius behind if the pickup has a camper shell and you plan to defray some of the cost of lodging by camping out.)

Drive Responsibly

When you’re on the road, drive responsibly. Barreling down the highway like a speed demon will only burn gas quicker. Plus, you won’t be able to enjoy the scenery along the way — which is part of the fun.

Drive at Night

If you can hack it, try to make the bulk of the trip overnight, driving in shifts if you have to. You’ll burn less gas in the cooler night hours than in the warmer daytime.

Food

You have to eat, but you don't have to eat at diners and fast food joints for every meal.

Pack a Cooler

Smart, spend-savvy road trippers always pack a cooler filled to the brim with food. It may not be the healthiest food, of course, but this is vacation, so you can live a little. Packing these road snacks will help you avoid fast food joints and costly restaurants at which you may be forced to dine, especially when you’re hungry in the middle of nowhere.

Set a Diner Budget

You’ll inevitably want to eat out sometimes along the road trip — and there’s nothing wrong with that as long as it’s not every meal — but for the times that you do indulge, have a budget set so you can manage your money well the whole way.

Find Happy Hours

Another great way to save when eating out along your trip is to find local happy hours that offer free snacks (they’re out there) or by using discount apps like Scoutmob, LivingSocial, or Groupon for instant savings.

Accept Free Meals

Accept free meals when they’re offered. Like if you stop at a friend’s or family member’s house and they insist on cooking your breakfast and sending you off with sandwiches.

Visit Grocery Stores

Hit up grocery stores along the way to restock your cooler. The price of a loaf of bread, peanut butter, jelly, two bags of baby carrots, and two bags of potato chips will feed a group of four for a day for about $15. In comparison, a meal at a fast-food restaurant will cost more than $20 for four people — and that’s just one meal.

Drink Water

Fill up your water bottles with free tap water along the way to stay healthy and hydrated.

Lodging

If you're an experienced road tripper, you probably already have a tent and basic camping gear. If you're really experienced, you may have an RV. If you're neither, you still have options beyond pricey motels.

Nap at Rest Stops

You’re allowed to nap in your car at rest stops. I’m not saying it’s very comfortable, and I’m not saying it’s very safe. I’m just saying.

Camp

Renting a space at a campground is relatively inexpensive, but finding a secluded place to camp is free. If you plan to engage in the latter, make sure it’s not private property, which is usually designated by signs.

Impose on Friends and Family

Plan your trip to areas where you have friends and family who have space to accommodate you. Not only will it be free (hopefully), but you’ll also get to spend time with people you may not see very often.

Micro Sublet

For other affordable lodging options, look into Couchsurfing (which is free) or microsubletting sites like Airbnb. The latter isn’t free, but you’ll almost always get more for your money and have a better time than at a hotel.

Use Your Rewards

Cash in any rewards points that you may have racked up and turn them into a hotel stay. After a week or two on the road, you’ll want at least one night of luxury. What else are you saving it for?

Activities

I don’t expect that you’re driving all over the country to spend all your time looking at things from inside the car. Sometimes you’ll want to get out and explore.

Visit Public Sites

Plan trips to public and free sites, which are available no matter where you go — big cities and small towns alike.

Buy Daily Deals

Purchase daily deals in advance of reaching your destination to reduce the cost of higher-end activities. Remember that some activities that tend to be popular will need to schedule you in, so it’s best to do this at least a week or two in advance so you’re not shut out at the last minute with no chance of a refund.

Check Visitor's Centers

Stop in at visitor's centers to gather information on free events and activities and scoop up valuable coupons you can’t find elsewhere.

Wing It

Plan your own activities. You’re on a road trip with friends. Surely you guys can come up with plenty of fun things to do together that don’t cost a dime. All you’ve got to do is put your heads together.

Have any more tips on how to have a frugal road trip?

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This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread: