Suggestion daily budget – $ 50-70 (Note: This is a budget proposal that assumes that you are as free as possible to spend the night, eat little out, cook most of your meals yourself, and your vehicle is not the big fuel-eater. With the budget tips below you can lower this number at any time, but if you want to stay in more sophisticated accommodations or eat out more often, you can expect this amount to be much higher).
Destinations
USA - What can you expect?
The United States of America is huge and of enormous diversity. In the east everything is much more populated and free standing for overnight stays is not always easy. Since the Americans love camping, the campgrounds are well developed. The cheapest is served in the state parks. These are distributed in large numbers across the country. County parks are also popular places to spend the weekend. National Parks and National Monuments are slightly more expensive than the State Parks, but they are also well developed and clean. At peak times, such as after Thanks Giving, you should make a reservation in advance because there are many Americans on the go. The Americans are friendly and small talk is always welcome. They are particularly curious, helpful and friendly towards Europeans.
Average Costs
Transportation - The liter of diesel cost $ 0.71 on average (January-May 2020 period). For comparison, the average price of diesel in the world was $ 1.09. The liter of gas cost $ 0.66 over the same period. Again, the average price in the world compared to 1.20 USD.
Campground - There are very good campgrounds in the state and county parks. The National Parks and National Monuments also offer first-class lots. It is definitely recommended to buy a National Parks Annual Pass. The cost is around 80 USD but is already amortized on the second visit to a national park because the entry to these parks is usually between 30 and 40 USD.
Food - Big Mac Index = 5.51 USD 1 liter of milk costs on average 1.00 USD 12 eggs costs 2.60 USD on average 1.5 liters of water costs 1.30 USD on average
TIps for first visit
1. Prepare your food – In the land of BBQ and steak, meat is relatively cheap to buy. But there are price differences. It is cheaper in the Walmarts than in the Safeway, but other products are cheaper in the Safeway than in the Walmart. It’s a try and compare prices when shopping.
2. Saving while driving – Every city, every park has a visitor center at almost every entrance. The easiest way is to visit such a visitor center and ask for discounts or recommendations.
3. Check where the locals eat – McDonalds and Co are undisputedly popular fast food places for most Americans. However, there are also insider tips all over the country which are listed in the state guides and which are available in the visitor center. So, just go to the Visitor Center and grab such a magazine.
Do’s and don’ts
The American is very proud of his country. And almost everyone belongs to any church. If you don’t want to mess with the American, it’s best not to talk about politics and religion.
Avoid leaving your paper in the car, hotel, campground. You should at least have your driver’s license with you. Don’t pay for your goods with notes over $ 20. Each larger note is held under the black light to check the glow for forgery. Use the credit card for every little amount.
Do not drink alcohol in public and never drink while driving. Otherwise you will quickly drive into a building that has a lot of bars on the windows. Keep eye contact with your counterpart. If you don’t look in the eyes of the American, he thinks you need special help or you have something to hide.
