8 National Parks, One Car, & 2 Weeks
- Jan 28
- 2 min read
The Ultimate US Road Trip Guide 🚗💨
If you saw my latest TikTok, you know I just finished the ultimate American road trip. 8 National Parks. Thousands of miles. And honestly? My bank account is still breathing.
Most people think a cross-country trip requires a massive budget, but I’m here to tell you that if you have a jar of peanut butter and a decent window shade, the world is yours. Here is exactly how I survived (and thrived) on the road without spending a fortune.
The PB&J Diet: Culinary Royalty 🥪
I know, I know. It sounds basic. But when you’re in the middle of a 10-hour drive through the desert, a PB&J is a lifesaver.
Why it works: It’s shelf-stable, requires zero cooking, and costs pennies.
The Upgrade: Switch it up with honey, bananas, or different types of bread so you don’t lose your mind by day five.
Grocery Store MVP: Don’t sleep on Rotisserie Chickens or Bagged Salads from grocery stores. You can make wraps in the trunk of your car that taste better than any $20 tourist trap burger.
Where to Sleep for $0 (Beyond Walmart) 😴
You saw me bunking down at Walmart, which is a classic for a reason (bathrooms + snacks = luxury). But sometimes the "No Overnight Parking" signs get in the way. If Walmart is a bust, check out these spots:
Cracker Barrel: Most locations are super chill with overnight travelers. Plus, you can wake up and grab a coffee right there.
Bass Pro Shops / Cabela’s: These are like the "outdoor version" of Walmart. They usually have massive lots and are very friendly to road trippers.
Rest Areas: Check state laws, but many states (like Texas, Arizona, and Oregon) allow you to park for 8–12 hours. Perfect for a quick recharge.
Casinos: These are often the safest spots because they have 24/7 security and bright lights.
BLM Land (The Holy Grail): If you’re out West, look for Bureau of Land Management land. It’s free, legal, and usually has the most insane views you’ve ever seen.
Pro Tip: Download the iOverlander app. It’s the "yelp" for car sleeping—it tells you exactly where people have stayed and if they got the dreaded "knock" on the window.
How to Stretch Your Last $50 💸
The National Park Pass: If you’re hitting 3+ parks, buy the America the Beautiful Pass ($80). It pays for itself by the third park and gets you into every National Park in the country for a full year.
GasBuddy is your Bestie: Prices can jump $1.00 just by crossing a state line. Use the app to find the cheapest fuel before you hit the "low gas" light.
Planet Fitness Membership: For $25 a month, you have a hot shower and a clean bathroom in almost every city in America. It’s the ultimate "van life" hack even if you’re just in a sedan.
The Bottom Line...
The best part of the trip wasn't the fancy meals (because there weren't any) or the soft beds. It was waking up at 5:00 AM in a parking lot, driving into a National Park, and having the sunrise all to myself.
Go get that bread (literally, for the sandwiches) and hit the road.