6 Vacations It’s Cheaper To Drive Than To Fly in the US

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If you’ve tried to book plane tickets recently, you understand how expensive it’s become to fly. According to the U.S. Travel Association, the price for airfare in September 2025 was 3.2% higher than the prior year. 

And it’s not just the price of the ticket. Add baggage fees, seat selection and airport parking, and your “cheap” weekend getaway suddenly costs hundreds more than you had planned.

But here’s the good news. In many cases, it’s actually cheaper to drive. A tank or two of gas can get you to some incredible vacation spots without being too painful on your wallet.

If you need to get away for a quick weekend escape and want to stay on a budget, here are a few trips where driving makes more sense than flying.

Nashville, Tennessee

If you’re flying to Nashville from nearby cities like Atlanta, St. Louis or even Louisville, round-trip flights can cost you between $200 and $300. Instead, the gas for a road trip might cost around $80, which would be a significant savings, especially for a larger family.

Nashville is a popular vacation spot for many people because of its live music on Broadway and great barbecue. Plus, you’ll save even more because you won’t need a rental car.

Chicago, Illinois

Flights into Chicago O’Hare or Midway can be expensive. If you live in nearby states like Indiana, Michigan or Wisconsin, you can save a significant amount of money by making the drive to Chicago instead. 

Chicago is a popular destination for deep dish pizza, museums, the many professional sports teams and Lake Michigan, which means there is something for everyone. 

Asheville, North Carolina

Regional flights to Asheville can be limited and expensive, often requiring connections through Charlotte. If you’re driving from Raleigh, Atlanta or Knoxville, you can keep costs lower.

Asheville, situated at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is the perfect vacation spot for anyone seeking outdoor adventures. Plus, they have a great craft beer and culinary scene, and you can explore scenic routes like the Blue Ridge Parkway on your drive in. 

San Diego, California

If you’re coming from anywhere around Las Vegas, Phoenix or Los Angeles, flights to San Diego can easily cost upwards of $300 depending on the time of year. Instead, you can make the four to six-hour drive at a fraction of the cost. 

With over 300 days of sunshine and attractions like Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo, it’s a great destination for families.

Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Because there are limited flight options, flights into Reno or Sacramento tend to be pretty pricey. If you’re coming from other parts of California or Oregon, the drive into Lake Tahoe can be well worth the time spent in the car. 

Plus, if you’re heading to Lake Tahoe for skiing or snowboarding, you can bring your own gear which will help you save on rentals or oversized baggage fees with airlines.

Orlando, Florida

Flights into Orlando can be a little pricey because of Disney World. If you’re coming from Alabama or Georgia, it’s likely that you’ll be able to save a significant amount of money by just hopping in the car and making the drive. With the money you’ll save, you can add an extra theme park or two onto your agenda.

Other Types of Road Trips To Consider

Other destinations that are better reached by car tend to be more remote, where airports are limited and flights are expensive. This includes desert and coastal spots.

Cannon Beach in Oregon is a perfect example. With its iconic Haystack Rock and scenic coastline, the area draws tourists from around the country. Moab, Utah, another remote destination, offers incredible access to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.

Some U.S. regions simply aren’t serviced by major airlines, which can make flying prohibitively expensive. Areas like the Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania or Gulf Shores, Alabama, are examples where driving often trumps flying. Smaller regional airports may have limited flights and higher ticket prices, while nearby larger airports could require long drives anyway. By driving, you save money and have the added advantage of transporting more luggage, sports equipment, or other vacation gear without worrying about airline restrictions or fees.

National parks are some of the top destinations where driving beats flying. Iconic locations such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks in Wyoming and Montana are perfect examples. While flights into Jackson Hole or Bozeman can be expensive, especially during peak summer months, a road trip gives you control over your schedule and lets you explore multiple areas along the way. Whether you’re chasing geysers, hiking through alpine valleys, or photographing wildlife, having a car allows you to reach trailheads and scenic overlooks that aren’t easily accessible via shuttle or tour bus.

Fiona Tapp contributed to this article.

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