Let’s be real: you don’t need a trust fund, a van life setup, or a Pinterest-perfect itinerary to have the time of your life. You just need one equally broke bestie, a reliable car, and an unhealthy amount of gas station snacks. Whether you’re chasing mountains, beaches, deserts, or just really good roadside pie, the United States is packed with road trip routes that are high on adventure yet low on cost.
However, many people are unaware of their option, and that’s exactly why this guide is packed with budget-friendly bucket list road trip ideas across the U.S.
So grab your cheapest pair of sunglasses, throw your overnight bag in the backseat, and start ticking these off one wild, weird, wonderful mile at a time.
1. The Blue Ridge Parkway – North Carolina to Virginia
The Blue Ridge Parkway is America’s longest linear park and is free to access. Stretching 469 miles, it’s perfect for those who want stunning skylines as a backdrop for their chill car playlists.
Here, the campgrounds are cheap, hikes are abundant, and sunrise over the ridges feels like therapy without the co-pay. Stop at small-town diners, admire the wildflowers along the trails, and challenge each other to a “who can stay offline longest” game.
This trip screams slow travel vibes — no rush, no pressure, just vibes, and the ideal location for a digital detox!
2. Pacific Coast Highway – California’s Highway 1
This epic road trip is all about crashing waves, cliffside roads, and sunset selfies you’ll keep forever.
This coastal route from San Francisco to Los Angeles (or reverse) is a dream, but that’s if you work around avoiding tourist traps. To do that, pitch tents at coastal campgrounds or sleep in the car by the beach (but just check local rules beforehand).
Heading south from San Francisco, your first key stops will be around the Monterey Peninsula. Be sure to hit thrift shops in Monterey for unique finds and then explore the rich marine life in the tide pools at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve near Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Continue south along the dramatic Big Sur coastline to encounter the iconic Bixby Bridge, a must-stop for photos. You can even go on one of the many free hiking trails in Big Sur.
Further south, near San Simeon, take a break from your job to observe the elephant seals at Piedras Blancas State Marine Reserve. Finally, as you start to near Los Angeles, don’t miss the chance to grab cheap and delicious tacos in the vibrant city of Santa Barbara.
3. Route 66
Let’s be real — the traditional Route 66 is now replaced with an interstate highway route, and a big chunk of the trip can feel boring and monotonous.
But if you want to explore the region without the monotony and the high costs, don’t travel the entire stretch from Chicago to Santa Monica. Instead, focus on the vibrant Midwest section between Missouri and Oklahoma. Here, you’ll discover quirky towns and vintage charm without having to go through the desert exhaustion of the once-famous Route 66.
Start in Joplin, Missouri, and head southwest into Oklahoma. A must-see on this leg is the quirky Blue Whale of Catoosa. Continue along to experience the retro vibes of classic diners in towns like Claremore or Sapulpa, Oklahoma. Keep an eye out for charming, budget-friendly motels with vintage appeal in places like Stroud, Oklahoma.
What makes this route so appealing is its low-pressure approach to spending, as the real fun lies in the journey itself. Snap Polaroids in front of unique roadside attractions, make up ghost stories at interesting old buildings and savor a slice of homemade pie in welcoming towns like Miami, Oklahoma, or Chandler, Oklahoma.
It’s a dose of authentic Americana without the boredom, all on a shoestring budget.
4. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula Loop
Waterfalls, wild forests, and lakes that look like oceans — the Upper Peninsula is what happens when nature goes full aesthetic.
Starting near the Mackinac Bridge, head west through Munising, known for its stunning Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore along Lake Superior.
Continue westward to Marquette, a vibrant town right on Lake Superior. From Marquette, drive north towards the tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula and Copper Harbor. Views of Michigan’s rugged coastline and lush forests will keep you company along the way.
Throughout this route, there are numerous affordable campgrounds. You can swim in (often chilly) Lake Superior, hike to hidden waterfalls, and sometimes even get a chance to watch the Northern Lights without a soul in sight.
5. Great Smoky Mountains – Tennessee to North Carolina
Did you know that America’s most visited national park, the Great Smoky Mountains, can be a great budget-friendly road trip idea?
This part is free to enter and takes you along winding roads from Tennessee and into North Carolina. Here, keep an eye out for elk near Cataloochee Valley and climb the panoramic views from Clingmans Dome. Enjoy budget-friendly cabins around Gatlinburg and hearty, cheap country breakfasts.
Be sure to take this drive slowly, exploring all the scenic routes.
6. Hill Country Escape – Texas
Rolling hills, hidden swimming holes, and roadside BBQ joints with picnic benches and zero pretense — that’s Texas Hill Country.
Start your road trip in Austin and then head through Fredericksburg, a town renowned for its German heritage and wineries. Continue on westward to Wimberley. You will love the place for its natural beauty and, in particular, the many swimming holes. From Wimberley, make your way to the spirit of Texas — Luckenbach.
While the best time to take this trip would be in spring to see the explosion of wildflowers, this route has enough year-round appeal thanks to its scenic road, unique antique shops, and old-timey vibe.
Throughout this journey, be sure to grab some delicious kolaches at local bakeries. Jump into the Guadalupe River for a refreshing swim to beat the Texas heat. Keep an eye out for those unassuming roadside BBQ joints since they often serve up the most authentic and mouthwatering Texas barbecue.
7. Badlands + Black Hills Loop – South Dakota
For the Badlands and Black Hills Loop, start in Rapid City and create your route through Badlands National Park, Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and the Needles Highway.
The landscapes here are wild and dramatic, with spiky rock formations, bison herds, and golden hour that feels like a movie.
Budget-wise? Entry fees are low, camping is abundant, and towns like Wall and Keystone have cheap eats and retro shops. Plus, you can tell everyone you road-tripped through the actual Wild West.
8. Vermont Fall Foliage Trail
This one’s for broke besties with main character energy, especially in October.
Start your scenic journey by winding through Route 100 and stop at cute, small towns like Stow to visit a classic Vermont general store. Continue south to Woodstock, known for its covered bridges and pretty green park. Then, head to Middlebury, a vibrant college town.
Along this drive, you’ll find many fall experiences where you can explore vibrant pumpkin patches brimming with gourds, capture photos at iconic covered bridges, and indulge in sweet maple syrup tastings at local sugarhouses.
To keep your adventure budget-friendly during peak foliage season, consider traveling in early October or opting for affordable campgrounds within the Vermont landscape.
9. Louisiana Bayou Run – New Orleans to Lafayette
Swampy, soulful, and bursting with flavor, this route is less about distance and more about vibes.
Begin your road trip in the vibrant streets of New Orleans. Take free walking tours to explore hidden corners and enjoy live music played along the sidewalks.
After that, keep traveling in the direction of Lafayette, the center of Cajun Country. Check out the bayou paths surrounding Lake Martin, which are ideal for spotting a range of birds and alligators. Stay at a small-town Airbnb or locally owned lodgings to keep expenses down. Savor spicy gumbos and fried seafood all along this route.
10. Oregon Coast Crawl – Highway 101
The Oregon Coast offers some seriously stunning scenery without costing a fortune. Driving Highway 101 from Astoria to Brookings, you’ll see rugged cliffs, iconic sea stacks, and picturesque lighthouses.
En route, stop at Cannon Beach for the classic Haystack Rock photo, explore the marine life in Newport, and admire the dramatic coastline around Bandon.
What makes this route budget-friendly is that there are plenty of free viewpoints on this route. Plus, finding affordable and delicious seafood at local spots is also not difficult at all. Camping here can have killer ocean views for cheap. Spend your days looking for pretty rocks on the beach and having bonfires when the sun goes down.
11. Utah’s Scenic Byway 12
For a true road trip that feels like you’re on another planet, check out Utah’s Scenic Byway 12. This route connects Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef with landscapes that feel out of this world. You can camp under the amazing night skies or find budget-friendly lodging in towns like Escalante and Torrey.
There are also plenty of free and fantastic hiking trails to experience the stunning red rock formations.
12. Maine Coastline Meander – Route 1
Want a classic New England road trip without emptying your wallet? Start in Portland and drive up Maine’s Route 1.
Head north along the scenic coast. Along the way, stop at iconic lighthouses like Portland Head Light for some great photos.
Throughout your road journey, you’ll pass through charming harbor towns like Camden, known for its beautiful harbor and sailing ships, and Bar Harbor, the gateway to Acadia National Park (another must-see, though park entry has a fee, hiking and scenic drives within are worth it!).
Keep an eye out for those classic lobster shacks for a taste of Maine. You will also be able to enjoy plenty of free beach access for strolling and soaking in the views and hit up local thrift stores for unique souvenirs.
While a whole lobster can be pricey, a delicious and affordable bowl of clam chowder with a waterfront view is always a win.
13. Colorado’s San Juan Skyway
Ditch the usual highway and get ready for a mountain adventure on Colorado’s San Juan Skyway!
This amazing loop starts near Durango in southwest Colorado. From Durango, you’ll drive through stunning mountain towns. First, check out Telluride, tucked in a dramatic canyon, and ride the free gondola for incredible views. Next, discover Ouray, known as the “Switzerland of America,” with its Victorian charm and relaxing hot springs. Then, enjoy a breathtaking drive to the historic mining town of Silverton.
For cheaper places to stay, try visiting in late spring or early fall. Bring your snacks for the road. Prepare to stop often for truly jaw-dropping views of the rugged San Juan Mountains.
14. Northern Arizona & Navajo Nation
Want to explore beyond the Grand Canyon? Northern Arizona and the Navajo Nation offer an amazing and budget-friendly road trip.
Start your drive in Flagstaff and head east. You’ll come across the incredible Antelope Canyon. Next, see the dramatic curve of the Colorado River at Horseshoe Bend, near Page. Finally, experience the iconic buttes of Monument Valley. Please take the scenic loop road for a truly memorable driving experience.
Remember, this land is sacred, so be respectful and learn about the rich Navajo culture.
Camping under the huge, clear desert skies is unforgettable and saves money. You will also easily find tasty and affordable Navajo fry bread and other local food.
15. Florida Springs + Backroads Route
Did you know that you can skip the theme park madness and head on a natural and cheap Florida road trip?
Follow the Florida Springs and Backroads Route. Start your adventure around Gainesville. From there, head south to Ichetucknee Springs State Park for a relaxing swim.
Continue your road trip south towards Silver Springs State Park. It’s a great spot for kayaking or going on a glass-bottom boat tour. Next, head west towards Ginnie Springs for some fun tubing. Along the way, you will drive through Florida’s horse country with its rolling green pastures and charming backroads shaded by Spanish moss.
Pack your swimsuit for the springs, a waterproof case for your phone pics, and a cooler with your favorite snacks and drinks for this refreshing and affordable Sunshine State getaway.
<p>The post Broke Besties, Big Adventures: Affordable U.S. Road Trips to Take This Year first appeared on Travelbinger.</p>