5 One Tank Road Trips That Won’t Break the Bank

Everyone deserves a break now and again, but more people than ever are forgoing vacations thanks to the economic recession we are all facing. Luckily, there are one-tank trips for virtually everyone in the nation. Whether you choose to spend a day, the weekend or even take an extended vacation, traveling to these destinations won’t break the bank! Here are some great one-tank trips from three cities across the country:

From New York:

Northeastern Pennsylvania

POCONO MOUNTAINS PENNSYLVANIA

What many people refer to as “the Poconos” has gotten a face-lift. Long thought the destination for honeymooners, the region is given itself a new, glamorous image with upscale inns and lovely hotels with a mixture of amenities. From New York City, simple head west, and in only 90 minutes you’ll be in the heart of this beautiful area of the country. Whether you want to visit a large water park, a ski resort or you prefer to spend your time in the quaint mountains, you’ll be able to spend your vacation in any manner of your choosing.

Philadelphia

Many assume that Philly, as the locals call it, is simply a place for history buffs. While there’s nothing wrong with visiting the Liberty Bell and taking in a bit of our nation’s history, the city has so much more to offer! No matter what you do with your day, you simply must visit John’s Roast Pork for a true Philly Cheesesteak sandwich. When you’ve filled your stomach, head over to the Curtis Center for a look at the Dream Garden, designed in 1916 with Tiffany glass; the visit will be exquisite. If you are spending the night, head down to South Street and take in the energy of the evening with other tourists and many of the locals, as well. By the time your trip is over, you’ll wonder why you hadn’t visited Philadelphia sooner.

From San Francisco:

Napa Valley

If you’ve never been to Napa, now is the perfect time to go! With just a single tank of gas, you can arrive in the valley, fill-up and take a 30-mile long tour along the highway that runs alongside the gorgeous vineyards. If you tire of driving, rent a bicycle and ride your way to a few of the wineries in the area.

Napa Valley
Don’t think that Napa is only for wine lovers! If you’ve got a taste for Pilsner, stop by the Calistoga Inn Restaurant & Brewery for a pint. A wide selection of ales, and live music, will keep you entertained all evening long. Before you leave for home, stop at Indian Springs Resort and Spa for a famous mud bath. Floating in the brown goo will cost you just under $100, but may well be the best money you spend on your trip.

Big Sur

The time to head to Big Sur is right now! Whales, butterflies and seals have made their way to the area and are in abundance as are sea otters and condors. Big Sur is an absolute Mecca for the nature lover; don’t pass this trip up. While in Big Sur, you have your choice of cozy cottages, quaint B&B’s and posh hotels. You can have any type of getaway you wish in this eclectic region of California. From mountains to redwood forests, you’ll be absolutely amazed at the stunning vistas. Be sure to take along a great camera for all of the photo ops!

Big Sur

From Dallas:

Fort Worth

Fort Worth is swimming with museums! No matter your interest, chances are you can find a museum in Fort Worth that celebrates it in style. From American Art to Science and History, there is a museum for every interest and each member of your family.

Be sure to head to downtown Fort Worth to get a true sense of the city and all that it has to offer. From shopping to dining, you may find that the city quickly becomes your favorite weekend getaway.

Don’t give up the family vacation simply because you don’t have money for plane fare! These one-tank trips are a fabulous way to spend a day or a weekend. Before you leave, make sure that your insurance coverage is up to par and that you’ve prepared a roadside emergency kit for your trunk. No one expects a roadside emergency, but they do happen. Get prepared and get moving; your weekend is waiting!

Author Sandy Landsford is a freelance travel writer and blogs for www.carinsurance.org.uk, where you can get a quote for cheap car insurance.