The Golden State was near the bottom of the rankings for those looking to visit other locales during the summer months.
With 75 percent of U.S. adults saying they will take a road trip this summer, the personal-finance website WalletHub released its report on the Best & Worst States for Summer Road Trips in 2024, along with expert commentary, to help people plan a fun and wallet-friendly trip.
WalletHub compared the 50 U.S. states based on 32 key metrics. The data set ranges from the number of attractions to road conditions to costs.
Road Tripping in California (1=Best; 25=Avg.):
Overall Rank: 43rd
22nd – Lowest Price of Three-Star Hotel Room
50th – Avg. Gas Prices
44th – Car Thefts per Capita
47th – Lowest Price of Camping
31st – Fatalities per 100 Million Vehicle Miles Traveled
“Taking a summer road trip can be a very exciting way to experience a new place, but with the prices of gas, food and accommodations heavily impacted by inflation, you’ll want to be in a state that makes this type of vacation affordable. Safe roads are also key, and so is having plenty of worthwhile attractions to stop at along the road. The best states for summer road trips therefore are those that keep costs low while providing the best driving experience and most fun activities,” said WalletHub Analyst Cassandra Happe. “Texas is the best state for summer road trips, leading the country when it comes to the number of available attractions, especially things like zoos, botanical gardens and amusement parks. In addition, Texas has over 9,500 miles of scenic byways, the second-cheapest accommodations during mid-July, and a very large number of accommodations and restaurants per capita.”
Following number one ranked Texas, the rest of the top five were Minnesota at number two, New York, Louisiana and Florida. The bottom five were Vermont, at number 46, followed by Montana, Connecticut, Rhode Island and, at number 50, Delaware.
To view the full report, visit: https://wallethub.com/edu/best-worst-states-for-summer-road-trips/4648
Expert Commentary
Do you think more people will take road trips this summer than in previous years?
“All indications are there is a significant increase in those planning a road trip versus flying or going to a resort destination. High credit card debt along with high-interest rates on credit cards and a 31 percent inflation over the last three years are forcing families to explore new and different ways to vacation this year. The road trip is a logical choice yet provides fun and value and multiple options.”
Dr. David C. Miles – Executive Professor, Northern Arizona State University; Guest Professor, University of Memphis
Do you have any budget-saving tips for those looking to hit the open road?
“For those traveling this summer try to book their accommodations as early as possible. In addition, try to find some locations that may be a little ‘off the beaten path’ which may not be as crowded (as) the main tourist destinations and possibly will cost a little less. Sometimes you can find some real gems.”
Jerry Agrusa Ph.D., CHE, FMP – Professor, University of Hawaii at Manoa
With 18 percent of Americans saying they would prefer to take a road trip rather than fly in 2024, why are summer road trips becoming a more popular option, than flying?
“For the last few years, Americans have traveled more than ever. Inflation has increased costs considerably and staff shortages have caused reductions in services. All of this has annoyed the consumer as there are few signs that either will improve. A road trip allows you to spend on certain items and save on others. You remain in control of your vacation. You will also have spare cash to buy a great ice cream treat or other fun food when you stop at each destination.”
Dr. David C. Miles – Executive Professor, Northern Arizona State University; Guest Professor, University of Memphis
“There are several reasons why Americans choose to drive instead of flying, but here are three factors that come to mind. Cost – the dramatic price increase of airline tickets is a major factor in why Americans will take more summer road trips … Furthermore, the post-pandemic scarcity of reasonably priced rental vehicles at travel destinations and their increased costs is an economic push to road travel in a personal vehicle. Control – travelers want more control over their vacations and driving their own motor vehicle is providing that control. Travelers who choose to drive can select the route they want to travel, the timeline of the trip, and where to visit, stop, and shop on the trip. Delays – American travelers do not want to waste their vacation time waiting at an airport because of the flight delays and flight cancellations which have been increasing at our nation’s airports.”
Jerry Agrusa Ph.D., CHE, FMP – Professor, University of Hawaii at Manoa
