The Cheapest Way to Travel the U.S.

Traveling the US can be extremely expensive, but I recently rented a van and roadtripped to 5 of our National Parks and it was a Game Changer!

Roadtrips are the most cost effective way to travel. You can take your own car or rent a van through companies like Moterra Campervans to be even more comfortable throughout your trip. You can stay each night for free on BLM land, which are public lands for use as long as you leave no trace! These lands can be found online with a little research. Go grocery shopping to keep meal costs down. The best part of roadtrips is cooking on the side of the road with the most incredible views. It beats a restaurant any day. Enjoy free activities like hiking or driving through some of the most beautiful nature our country has to offer. You can buy 1 National Park pass that is valid for all parks in the US.

No more expensive hotels... let's go camping!

#lemon8creator #vanlife #roadtripus #usroadtrip #nationalparks

2025/12/20 Edited to

... Read moreTraveling across the United States doesn’t have to drain your bank account if you plan smartly and embrace the roadtrip lifestyle. One highly cost-effective option is renting a campervan from companies like Moterra Campervans, which provides comfort and flexibility as you visit multiple destinations, including National Parks. These vans come equipped for cooking and sleeping, eliminating the need for costly accommodations. An excellent way to save on lodging is by camping on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands. These lands offer free camping spots where you can stay overnight, as long as you follow the “leave no trace” principles to protect the environment. Before your trip, research available BLM sites online to find camping areas closest to your travel route. This kind of camping not only cuts costs but also enhances your connection with nature. Investing in a National Parks Pass is another smart move. The pass grants you entry to over 2,000 federal recreation sites, including all U.S. national parks, for a year. This can save you money if your trip includes visits to multiple parks, allowing you to experience breathtaking natural sites such as Zion, Bryce Canyon, or Arches without paying entrance fees separately. To keep food expenses low, shop at local grocery stores and prepare your meals on the road. Heating meals or cooking outdoors lets you enjoy dining with spectacular views while avoiding expensive restaurants. Plus, hiking and other free outdoor activities add value to your experience without added costs. By combining these strategies—renting a campervan, camping on free BLM land, using a National Parks Pass, and managing your meals—you can explore the United States affordably and comfortably. This approach provides a memorable travel experience full of adventure while keeping your budget intact. The essence of a roadtrip is freedom, and with some planning, it can be the cheapest and most rewarding way to discover America’s great outdoors.