Save Money on a Trip to the Beautiful Grand Canyon

Never been to the Grand Canyon? You can take your family there and save a few dollars using these tips on cheap travel to the Grand Canyon.

If you are going to be visiting other national parks besides the Grand Canyon, consider purchasing an annual pass. The pass provides entrance or access to pass holder and accompanying passengers in a single, private, non-commercial vehicle at federally operated recreation sites across the country.

Be sure to fill your tank before you arrive. Gas is much more expensive close to the canyon, and, more importantly, gas stations are not plentiful. It is not a good idea to run out of gas in this area.

If you are driving from Las Vegas, the North Rim of the canyon is a shorter drive and can save you some money on fuel. It will also be less crowded as most people opt for the South Rim.

For a tip on how to travel cheap using guided tours, especially if you are in Vegas, shop around because there are quite a good selection of tours you can take. Some are by plane, some by helicopter, and some by bus. Be advised that, although you will save money with the bus tour, it is very long and when I was there in March one year, very cold too! At one of the stops for gas my friend and I actually had to get off the bus and purchase a souvenir blanket inside the gift shop. You will also be a bit rushed once you arrive. If you are not going to fly, I recommend renting a car and driving there yourself, and just staying overnight in a nearby hotel. Of course shop around for deals online before you go.

Another tip on cheap travel, don't forget to bring sunscreen and a hat. Remember this is desert area and it gets hot. If you have to buy these things in a souvenir shop once you arrive you will be paying quite a bit more. Bring along some bottled water too, it's ver easy to get dehydrated in the dry heat.

Lastly, I think worth mentioning. Most rims are 7000 feet or more above sea level. Guard rails are few and far between. Visitors every year fall over the edge. Please exercise caution and remain a good distance away from the edge of the canyon. Otherwise enjoy your trip, this is one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen.