What would you do? (Driving Vs Flying)

[ziggystardust]

We had budgeted $300 for driving from NY. My DBF wanted to drive straight thru, so no hotel would be needed.

Now if we fly, w/SWA's $49 tix- flying would be about 215 RT + about $215 for a car rental (we are looking at apts in the area and need a car one way or another) totaling: $430 (give or take)

My DBF really wants to drive, I did but now w/the cheap airfare I could go either way. What would you do?

 

[sgtdisney]

Personally I would fly if the price was that close. You need to factor in the food on the way there and back and hotels as well unless you are going to drive straight through which I will never do. Flying is safer too if you think about it. If the price were a lot different that would be one thing, but that is pretty close.

 

[05ChristmasSurprise]

This was what we figured for our last trip (driving versus flying)

However, you're not taking into account the meals on your trip driving.
You'll definitely need to stop for meals - both ways. We ended up spending almost $200 more because of doing this (and snacks at the gas station, etc).

Plus, it just sucks being in the car that long. It doesn't seem like it will - but it does.

I'd fly.

 

[Laurajean1014]

Fly, Fly, Fly..........................................Fly.

 

[tae1218]

We have done both from Pennsylvania. It was about 18 hours in the car for us. It was only 2 1/2 hours on the plane. I would definately fly before drive again.

 

[duck_adoo]

We've drove down from New England 2001 and are doing it again this year. For us (family of 5), driving is the best financially. We really don't mind the drive at all. That's my .02

 

[Gooofy-Blade]

$215.00 sounds kinda high for a rental car. I have never had trouble getting one for less than $130.00 at Orlando - last year $110.00.

 

[ziggystardust]

$215.00 sounds kinda high for a rental car. I have never had trouble getting one for less than $130.00 at Orlando - last year $110.00.

Thats what I thought too. Last year when we went it was just over $100 when all was said and done. And then on top of that we got a free upgrade. I guess its the time of year, but I thought early Sept would be similar to early Dec. Guess I'm wrong.

This one was the cheapest by far, I saw a lot of other ones for over 300

 

[weeyore33]

We have done both, let me tell you, you set out to drive straight thru but it is no fun. we ended up stopping, with the price of gas you may go over your 300, plus meals, and the uncomfortable sitting in the car for too many hours, i would get my air tickets, you will be happy you did! trust me...

sitting in the car that long makes me crazy!

 

[weeyore33]

have you tried mousesavers for a rental? sign up for alamo hot deals at their web site, i have gotten excellent prices this way... just tryin to help!

 

[CarolA]

Well there is no way I would agree to drive straight thru. It's just too dangerous. If you nod off for 30 seconds that could be all it takes. Not to mention that you will be exhausted when you arrive.

SO... I would FLY!

 

[ILPHIL]

And I prefer to drive. For us it's just over 1200 miles and we do it in 24 hrs taking frequent breaks.
As far as costs, there are lots of things to factor in. Don't forget the fee for parking at the airport. Depending on how long your gone, that can be a pretty hefty sum. Especially at major airports.

Eating on the road doesn't have to be expensive, unless you insist on fancy meals 3x a day.

It really does come down to personal preference and what you are more comfortable with. Just make sure to take everything into account.

Good Luck either way...