Budget travel in the American West for travelers visiting the US — because this never gets covered in international budget travel content.

The National Parks pass situation: the America the Beautiful annual pass ($80) covers unlimited entry to all National Parks for one year. For any trip visiting 4+ National Parks, this is obviously correct.

Accommodation in the West: the campground network is the budget solution. National Park campgrounds cost $20-35/night but require booking 6 months in advance for peak season. National Forest and BLM dispersed camping (free, within designated areas) is available adjacent to most major parks and many national monument areas.

Road trip economics: renting a car (the only practical transport in most of the American West) costs $35-60/day. Add fuel at $4/gallon and 300 miles/day driving: $45-60 in gas. Two people sharing: $40-60/person/day for transport before accommodation and food.

Food: grocery stores in gateway towns to national parks (Moab, Flagstaff, Bishop) are the food budget solution. Cooking at the campsite. Restaurant costs in tourist gateway towns are high — $15-20 for basic meals.

The iconic route: Las Vegas (cheap flights in) → Zion National Park → Bryce Canyon → Capitol Reef → Arches → Canyonlands → Grand Canyon → Las Vegas (fly out). 12 days, approximately 1,200 miles. Total budget for one person: $1,200-1,500 including flights, rental car, campsites, and food.