Road Tripping in Affordable Arkansas – and How to Save Money While Doing It!
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When you think about all of the places in the United States to take a road trip, does Arkansas come to mind? I know, I know. For most people it doesn’t, but as a newer resident of The Natural State I’m telling you it totally should. Sure the world-class fishing, underground caverns and renowned bike trails attract people from around the world. Not to mention the history, friendly hospitality and waterfalls so beautiful books are written about them, but one thing I love about road tripping in Arkansas? AFFORDABILITY! Did I mention gas is only $1.72 a gallon right now? how to save money on your road trips how to save money on your road trips
If you know us, you know we love road tripping. Since I was a wee high Air Force brat, dad driving us all to the next base, I’ve loved preparing for and hitting the open road. Of course, now the hubs and I have the girls in tow so with some planning and getting the car into tip-top shape, we get to save money for the fun stuff. Here are five of our tips for keeping your adventure affordable.
How to Save Money On Your Road Trips
1. First, things first. Make sure your car is in good shape and get a safety check. We all want to get the most out of our gas mileage, so check your car’s tires and get thee to Walmart’s Auto Care Center (ACC) for your oil change with Pennzoil®! You can find your ACC by clicking here. Right now, their $39.88 Oil Change is on Rollback to $35.88 (June 15- September 28). Pennzoil® High Mileage Vehicle® worked great for us during our last oil change since our vehicle was over 75,000 miles. Of course we just got a new truck so going forward we’re all about the Pennzoil Platinum®: Full Synthetic Motor Oil with PurePlus™ Technology, best for cars and vehicles with under 75,000 miles.
2. You know those silly coupon books you see in road stops, gas stations and diners off of highways? They’re not so silly. Look through them! We’ve saved up to $100 by getting in free to tourist attractions and there are a lot of restaurant discounts, too.
3. Consider off the beaten path. You’d be surprised by what a lot of smaller and less-known places can offer. You’ll also find a lot more availability along with steals and deals!
4. Leverage your memberships and affiliations. Belong to AAA? Are you military or a veteran? Most hotels offer special rates for you. So do several restaurants. Just ask and most people will extend discounts. Be polite when asking, of course.
5. Check out Arkansas. Believe me, Arkansas was once a place that wouldn’t have come to mind when recommending a “go-to,”but not only does it offer affordability, you have a plethora of things to choose from, many of which are free. Whether you want to check out Johnny Cash’s boyhood home in Dyess or experience the colorful history of Hot Springs, the USA’s first National Park or take in fall foliage that rivals that of anywhere else in the world Arkansas won’t let you down. If you love hiking, check out Whitaker’s Point in Kingston and for my fellow bikers out there, the Pig Trail through the Boston and Ozark Mountains has your name written all over it. You can end your course at the haunted Crescent Hotel in charming Eureka Springs. Around since 1886, does it have some stories to tell! You can also try your luck at finding your own giant diamond at Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro – the only place in the US that produces diamonds. Plus you find it, you keep it!
Now that you’re ready to go, grab this printable checklist with even more ways to save, and do tell! Where are you headed on your next road trip? Safe journeys, everyone!
