Out of curiosity, a solo backpacker asked people on the Internet why is it more expensive to travel alone in the U.S. The traveler was met with a flurry of responses, ranging from the thrifty to the extravagant. Sifting through the noise, some opinions stood out. But it still seems that expenses can be really high when crossing the vast American landscapes on your own. And while some costs are obvious, others are more hidden, waiting to ambush the unsuspecting tourists.
1. The Holiday Craze
The secret is timing. High-traffic holidays like Christmas, and Fourth of July, or even local events like Mardi Gras often crowd places, meaning there are higher prices for almost everything. Traveling just a week later could save you some serious cash! And if adventure fun is what you’re after, consider hitting the ‘shoulder season’ which means the time between off and peak seasons.
This not only gifts you a fresh perspective but also emptier, more serene landscapes. As one wise traveler advised, “Keep an eye on big local events unless that is your goal.” Plan smart, and travel more cheaply.
2. The U.S. Has a Weak Travel Infrastructure
Unless you’re embarking on a hiking or camping trip suited for solo travel, the U.S. lacks the infrastructure to support traveling alone at a reasonable cost. One commenter decries the scarcity of hostels, inadequate public transit, and a shortage of budget airlines in the U.S.
3. High Cost of Living Areas = Higher Travel Expenses
Some regions of the country have a high cost of living that travelers can’t avoid. A user on the thread describes their experiences traveling in the Northeast U.S. by themselves, writing, “Just came back from Boston. I think I spent like 1-2k in a week, lol. My first meal cost $65 and was essentially a snack.”
4. A Tale of Two Trips
Someone compares two trips they went on, a two-week excursion to Spain and a ten-day trip to Michigan, and the cost differences were astonishing: “Back in 2019, we went to Spain for two weeks and Michigan for ten days…it cost us more to go to Michigan and stay in a not so nice hotel in Muskegon than it cost to go from L.A. to Spain.”
5. The Tourism Industry Is Designed for Groups
The tourism industry in the U.S. intentionally attracts couples, families, and groups of friends because they collectively spend more money than someone traveling alone. One person on the thread confirms this based on their own experience, describing a trip to New York City and seeing that most tourists at the popular attractions were groups of people.
6. Rental Car Prices Have Increased
Since the pandemic, the cost of car rentals has exponentially increased. One respondent states, “Since COVID, the rental car has been the big issue in my solo traveling in the U.S. Paying 3x-4x the rate of what it cost just a couple of years ago is such a bummer. I can find cheaper airfare through budget carriers. But there’s no way around the rental car.”
7. Lodging Is Expensive
Unlike European countries, the U.S. only partially supported youth hostels, which are highly affordable hotel alternatives, especially in bigger cities. Making matters worse, some American-based hostels shuttered their doors due to the pandemic shutdowns. Somebody on the thread indicates they avoid paying for lodging by camping in their car on a road trip.
8. Uneven Currency Exchange Rates
Even though the U.S. and other countries are experiencing inflation, the strength and value of the U.S. dollar remain high. For travelers from other countries, their currency is worth less in exchange. This uneven currency exchange can make trips to the U.S. out of reach for those traveling alone.
9. Profiteering Is Rampant
The travel industry took a big hit due to pandemic shutdowns. To recoup that lost revenue, service providers are raising rates. “The profiteering everywhere you turn is getting outrageous,” an individual responds.
10. Length of Stay and Destination Matters
Another user observes that a two-week vacation versus a weekend getaway affects how much a solo traveler spends, and the destination matters. Some cities, like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York City, are notoriously expensive.
11. America Is Expensive, Period
Finally, this user acknowledges, “The U.S. is an expensive place to do anything.” Do you agree?
America’s 10 Saddest States: Is Your State on the Dismal List?
Regarding happiness, several internal and external factors are taken into consideration. While it’s easy to influence happiness from the people you spend time with and the activities you participate in, high inflation, high unemployment rates, and poor sleep are enough to make anyone miserable. According to a 2023 research report released by WalletHub, these are the 10 saddest states in the United States, ranked.
America’s 10 Saddest States: Is Your State on the Dismal List?
It’s Just Easy on the Outside: 11 of the Most Common Tasks That Are Harder Than You Think
The handyman inside us often takes out our curiosity and hype, pulling us towards fascinating common tasks. These activities, while seeming simple at a glance, cleverly mask their actual intricacies. We might even think of them as straightforward, no-sweat tasks. Once we delve into the process, we realize it’s not as easy as it initially seemed. Being a subject in an online forum, these tasks, according to people, can go from easy peasy, lemon squeezy to hard fart lemon tart.
It’s Just Easy on the Outside: 11 of the Most Common Tasks That Are Harder Than You Think
Capture the Best Fall Foliage in the United States At These 18 Amazing Spots
In each state in our country, unique fall foliage is happening near you, bringing brilliant colors practically to your doorstep. The fall color’s timing and intensity are influenced by temperature, rainfall, sun exposure, tree species, and elevation, among other factors. Henry David Thoreau wrote in an 1862 essay for The Atlantic called it autumnal foliage, “October is the month of painted leaves. Their rich glow now flashes round the world…” The popularity of leaf peeping has contributed mightily to tourism across the country in recent years, touted by each state’s vested interests. A study from the Appalachian State University estimates that tourists seeking the best view of colorful leaves contribute more than $30 billion to local economies across 24 eastern states. I’m partial to the East Coast, especially New York and New England, but fall foliage is everywhere. You can check out the Smoky Mountains fall foliage map, which predicts each state’s start and peak time. Go on a scenic drive with the top down, ride a bike, or hike to explore the area.
Capture the Best Fall Foliage in the United States At These 18 Amazing Spots
11 Strange Facts About Popular Everyday Jobs You’d Probably Never Guess
Beyond the basic job descriptions and well-publicized duties, there are hidden layers and unforeseen intricacies to some of the most popular jobs. With a good dose of curiosity and an open mind, people in an online discussion group revealed strange yet surprising things about their jobs, some showing the less-than-glamorous side of their everyday work.
11 Strange Facts About Popular Everyday Jobs You’d Probably Never Guess
Unforgettable Yet Affordable: 16 Frugal Vacation Ideas To Consider for Your Next Trip
While many people might say you need to break the bank to create lasting memories, I believe they just need to look at it differently. Everyone deserves a chance to unwind and experience the joy of travel without emptying their wallets. Here, we’ll give you inexpensive vacation ideas that will leave you with incredible experiences and cherished moments, all without burning a hole in your pocket.
Unforgettable Yet Affordable: 16 Frugal Vacation Ideas To Consider for Your Next Trip