With 75% of U.S. adults saying they will take a road trip this summer, the personal-finance website WalletHub today 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 New York (1=Best; 25=Avg.):

• Overall Rank: 3^rd
• 1^st – Number of Attractions
• 4^th – Nightlife Options per Capita
• 1^st – Vehicle Miles Traveled per Capita
• 7^th – Car Thefts per Capita
• 14^th – Access to Scenic Byways
• 3^rd – Driving Laws Rating
• 14^th – Fatalities per 100 Million Vehicle Miles Traveled

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% 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% 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