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Planes, trains and automobiles

Travelling around America

There are so many different ways to travel around America.

Most people will use budget, group size and distance to work out which mode of transport will work best.

But remember, America is huge. So our top tip is to divide and conquer on your trip, it's ok to need to come back to America. After all why do you think returners return again... and again.

Buses

Buses are probably the most cost-effective way of travelling in the USA. Greyhound buses are a long-standing and well known national company and travel to most of the major cities, with air conditioning and sometimes even WiFi, but there are hundreds of other great companies that run a more regional service.

Despite the cheap cost of buses, America is a big place and they can often be slow, so if you’re up on cash and down on time, consider another option.

Trains

The national rail company is AMTRAK. Trains are very efficient and clean, and provide a more comfortable, if a little more expensive ride than buses.

They operate service to and from most of the major cities. Just like anywhere else, you should book in advance for cheaper fares, but if you need to buy on the day, you should find an AMTRAK service kiosk at the station.

Planes

Flying is obviously the quickest form of transport while in America and internal flights are often very reasonable, but you can also find some great deals if you do a little digging.

We'd recommend using a flight scanner to seek the best deals. Also look at other nearby airports as flight prices can sometimes be drastically different and most obvious airport might also be the most expensive.

NYC has great transport links, so if you're not sure about where to go before you go, we'd always recommend using JFK or Newark as a home base. So even if you do go further afield, getting back should be ok.

Cars

You are permitted to drive in the USA as long as you have a full and valid drivers' license in your home country.

Car rental

Most of the well-known rental companies will require you to hold a credit card, and be at least 25 years old. Some may accept younger drivers, but it will probably be more expensive.

We have an exclusive deal with Alamo to give to great discounts for your after camp road trip.

Buying a car

Buying a scrappy American motor, travelling the country and selling it off at the end of your trip sums up the ultimate American tour, but there are a few things to consider before parting with your cash. Firstly, be careful what you buy and who you buy from - it is best to have the car checked out professionally before committing yourself. Secondly, consider added costs, such as insurance and fuel costs; America is an enormous country to drive through and filling up often will really hammer your wallet.

Finally, do you actually need to buy a car? There are plenty of other options available and selling it at the end of your trip may not be as easy as what you may think.

How far will you go this summer?