Calculate total trip costs including fuel, tolls, parking, and other expenses
Planning a road trip requires careful budgeting to avoid unexpected expenses. Trip costs include fuel, tolls, parking, food, lodging, and miscellaneous expenses. Accurately calculating these costs helps you budget appropriately and make informed decisions about your travel plans.
Fuel typically represents the largest portion of trip costs, but tolls and parking can add up quickly, especially in urban areas or on major highways. Understanding the total cost per person and per mile helps you compare different routes and travel options.
Fuel is calculated by dividing trip distance by your vehicle's MPG, then multiplying by the current gas price. Highway driving typically yields better fuel economy than city driving, so consider your route type when estimating MPG.
Toll roads can significantly impact trip costs. Major highways like the Pennsylvania Turnpike or New Jersey Turnpike can cost $20-50 for a full crossing. Research your route in advance to estimate toll costs accurately.
Parking costs vary widely by location. Urban destinations may charge $20-50 per day for parking, while suburban or rural areas often offer free parking. Consider hotel parking fees and attraction parking when budgeting.
Other costs include vehicle maintenance, car washes, emergency repairs, and roadside assistance. For longer trips, budget an additional 10-15% of your total cost for unexpected expenses.
| Trip Type | Distance | Fuel Cost | Other Costs | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weekend Getaway | 200 miles | $28 | $20 | $48 |
| Cross-State Trip | 500 miles | $70 | $50 | $120 |
| Cross-Country | 2,500 miles | $350 | $200 | $550 |
| Coast to Coast | 3,000 miles | $420 | $300 | $720 |
Based on 25 MPG vehicle, $3.50/gallon gas price. Other costs include tolls, parking, and miscellaneous expenses.
Distance: 250 miles round trip
Vehicle MPG: 28 MPG
Gas Price: $3.40/gallon
Passengers: 4 people
Additional Costs: $15 tolls, $25 parking
Fuel Cost: 250 ÷ 28 × $3.40 = $30.36
Total Trip Cost: $30.36 + $15 + $25 = $70.36
Cost Per Person: $70.36 ÷ 4 = $17.59
Distance: 1,200 miles round trip
Vehicle MPG: 32 MPG (highway)
Gas Price: $3.60/gallon
Passengers: 2 people
Additional Costs: $80 tolls, $60 parking, $50 other
Fuel Cost: 1,200 ÷ 32 × $3.60 = $135
Total Trip Cost: $135 + $80 + $60 + $50 = $325
Cost Per Person: $325 ÷ 2 = $162.50
Distance: 40 miles round trip
Vehicle MPG: 26 MPG
Gas Price: $3.50/gallon
Additional Costs: $5 parking
Fuel Cost: 40 ÷ 26 × $3.50 = $5.38
Daily Cost: $5.38 + $5 = $10.38
Monthly Cost (22 workdays): $10.38 × 22 = $228.36
Annual Commute Cost: $228.36 × 12 = $2,740.32