The Best States for a Last-Minute Summer Road Trip

Road trips are as popular as ever and the end of summer provides no better excuse to hit the road than just that — the sunshine and weather is almost gone! However, with gas prices that spiked by a third over last year and rising travel costs, you might wonder if a road trip is right for you. Of course, some states provide a better road-trip experience than others, which is why WalletHub’s study on the matter is so valuable.

The brand compared the 50 U.S. states according to 31 key metrics to determine the best destinations for your summer road trip, whether you’re an old pro or this is your first rodeo.

According to its findings, Wyoming takes the top spot for best road-trip destination, followed by North Carolina, Minnesota, Texas and Florida. The bottom five were Rhode Island, Connecticut, Delaware and Hawai’i, in ascending order.

The study took a lot into consideration — gas prices, car repair prices (you never know what’ll happen when you’re out on the road), camping prices, car thefts, parkland and scenic byways.

Mississippi, Arkansas and Alabama ranked for lowest average gas prices, but they didn’t rank well for things like safety and things to do. Meanwhile, Nevada, Alaska and Washington had the highest gas prices.

Car repairs were pretty affordable in Michigan, Maine and Wisconsin, and camping is extremely affordable in Wyoming and Georgia.

You’re at the least danger of a car theft when in Vermont, Maine and New Hampshire, and at the highest danger in Alaska, Washington and Nevada.

For the highest percentage of total area designated as national parkland, Alaska, Arizona, California, Florida, Hawai’i and Utah all tied. California and North Carolina tied for most scenic byways.

Wherever you head for your last-minute summer road trip, take WalletHub’s findings into account and plan a trip that fits your speed!