The route to your hotel is only part of a road trip’s mileage. The drive home, local sightseeing, food stops and detours can all change the budget. Start with the whole journey, then separate the costs that rise with distance from the costs attached to each day away.

Build enough time for rest into that plan. Do not drive sleepy to avoid another hotel night; stop in a safe place and rest or change to an alert, authorized driver. Address known safety problems with the vehicle before departure, and use current weather and road information when deciding whether to travel.

For the distance ranges below, count the total driving you expect for the trip, including the return journey and local miles. They are planning categories, not recommended daily driving targets. Choose the range that fits the full itinerary rather than just the first destination.

How far is your next road trip?

Count the whole trip, including the return journey and local driving. Pick a range to review the budget details most useful for that itinerary.

Under 200 miles200 to under 500 miles500 to under 1,000 miles1,000+ miles

Select an answer to play a short ad and view the results.