This coming week, I need to take a 19 day road trip throughout the southeastern US, returning home in time for Easter.
It's a trip for some personal business, so all expenses are mine. Since it's a work related trip, ugh, not a vacation, I am not totally thrilled, but it has to be done.
To lighten the load, I looked for ways to minimize expenses. It's not a hardship, it's a hobby for me to see how much I can lower my expenses.
Thought I'd share.
Lodging: 12 nights are covered by hotel points...there are indirect expenses with earning points, but it's much cheaper than if paid out of pocket.
4 nights, paying out of pocket for an AirBnB...it's a suite, so cheaper than an apartment.
3 nights, staying at a Hilton Vacations property near Disney World....of course we have to attend an interval ownership presentation, but my understanding is that it's not as bad as a time share because it's points related...nevertheless, pray for me HAHAHA. I can be tough with people, but don't want to have to be lol.
Meals: 13 meals covered by MS. We tend to eat only one meal per day - and grab bagels or fruit from the hotel breakfast buffet - so like 1.5 meals....so will need to pay for meals for the other days. Will probably buy some nice wine to have on hand at night with some cheese and crackers while relaxing or doing paperwork.
Gas: currently, car is full of gas obtained through gas shops...of course will have to refill & pay out of pocket...if not a pain in the butt, may look for other gas shops along the way.
There will be some tollroads, so some expense there, but minor.
Return trip, the Florida to Virginia portion will be covered by Amtrak Auto Train...paid for with Amtrak points...big savings on lodging and gas and meals - Amtrak includes meals when you are staying in a room versus a seat.
Will also be earning cash back and points on the expenses I will have...so some payback there.
I can't think of any other way to slice up this pie. I know CoolMusic is the expert here, maybe he will chime in.
Peace & Road Trips.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 03/23/2025 11:17PM by BarefootBliss.