There is nothing more breathtaking to observe than the glories of Yellowstone National Park. Bordering Wyoming, Montana and Idaho, this park is one of the most sought after destinations for summer vacations each year. This year follow our tips for Budget Travel To Yellowstone to make your family dream come true. Not only can we help you plan for the park itself, but also for your trip there and back.
BUDGET TRAVEL TO YELLOWSTONE
SCRIMP ON TRAVEL, SPLURGE ON THE PARK: Depending on how far you are from the park and the cost of travel, driving versus flying may just be the way to go. Save on hotel costs along the way by driving straight through. Make sure to have at least two qualified drivers along to swap out every few hours for rest. Sleep when you reach your final destination. If flying, remember the larger airports in the state are several hours from the park. You will need to take into account the cost of a rental car from the airport as well in your budgeting.
MAKE IT A CAMPING VACATION: With dozens of places inside the park to pop a tent or hook up an RV, this can make an excellent camping vacation. Remember to read all the guidelines and information on the park website to make sure you know exactly what to expect. Unlike many modern camp grounds, not all locations are created equal within this National Forest. Not al camp grounds offer running water, bathrooms or electrical hookups.
SHOP VACATION PACKAGES: Many deal sites like Priceline offer great all-inclusive vacation packages. On occasion you will find a great deal on a resort package in one of the local to Yellowstone areas like Jackson Hole or Cody, Wyoming. Groupon, Living Social and Endless Vacation Rentals are favorites for quality and price.
BOOK WELL IN ADVANCE: As soon as you know you will be traveling to the area, book your hotel or cabin. Not only do locations inside the park sell out 6-8 months in advance sometimes, area hotel prices do go up during popular seasons.
STAY OUTSIDE THE AREA: Prices of hotels and motels in the closest towns and within the park can be astronomical. Figure the cost of gas to drive back and forth and often you will find a room 2-3 hours away is less expensive overall. Towns like Riverton, Rawlins, and Laramie are within a few hours (3-5) from the park. While not ideal for long days in the park, the cost difference can be staggering and worth a little drive.
PACK YOUR OWN MEALS: Nearly every location within Yellowstone National Park that serves food will be much more expensive than you expect. Pick up food before entering the park or pack a simple cooler with sandwiches, chips and drinks for your day trip. If staying overnight in the park, make sure to grab a few easy to eat breakfast, snack, lunch and dinner options that may not require heating up.
There will be no vacation quite like the one you take to this beautiful state park. Budget travel to Yellowstone is simply applying some basic planning skills. By comparing all of your options, looking at booking well before your travel dates and bringing those little “extras” from home so you don’t have to buy along the way, you’ll see your budget in tact. Make sure to plan for a few little expenses here and there and always make room for at least one souvenir.
