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Rolling by vs. flying high: The road trip comeback
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Busing weighs in at the cheapest ground transportation option. Photo from AdoreToExplore.com
The world’s airlines are projected to lose $4.7 billion in 2009 and it’s easy to see why. Because of fuel surcharges, new baggage fees, airline taxes and meal-less flights, many travelers are expected to opt for cheaper modes of transportation. So if you are looking to roll by verses fly high, check out these low-cost, ground transportation alternatives:
#1. The Bus
Forget the old yellow school bus stereotype. Coaches, complete with reclining seats, free drinks, and a movie screening are a sweet ride. After researching prices, busing wins the contest for the lowest-price option. MegaBus is an excellent option for East Coasters and Midwesterners, providing deals that majorly undercut what auto drivers pay just in fuel costs. For example, a round trip between New York and Philadelphia or Detroit and Chicago is less than $15 on most dates, with other options priced as low as $1 for a one-way ticket. As not to exclude the West Coast, GoToBus is a route search service for both coasts, but tickets tend to be double that of MegaBus; this is still a steal.
#2. The Train
Pour yourself and your travel mate a beverage and watch the landscape slide by while playing cards, catching up on life, or taking a snooze. The train has been overlooked by at least one or more generations, but it is still an economical and fun way to traverse the countryside. With a ride this smooth, you may forget you are traveling all together. Amtrak is the major US train company and provides a route atlas for planning cross country trips. For first time passengers, see the list of questions and planning ideas. For summer vacation backpackers, or budget adventurers, Amtrak offers coast to coast trips, with as many as 45 consecutive days of travel. Explore much of the countryside without worrying about navigating.
#3. The Car
Although driving long distances may not be the most affordable means of travel, Hertz Rental Car is located at most Amtrak stations. So if you’re planning on cruising the strip once you arrive to your destination, consider this option rather than driving yourself the entire way. But if you're a purist and just can't imagine a road trip without jumping behind the wheel, go for it. Just don't complain when your back seat passengers whip out the playing cards as you stare down that rarely-changing center line.
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