Are you planning a classic American road trip? With a tank of gas, the right attitude and some smart supplies, you can explore amazing locales on a budget.

If travel can be defined as an experience that’s meant to be shared, then the road trip is still very much alive. But that doesn’t mean you have to go far and spend a lot of money. Find places that you can travel to and from on just one tank of gas. Some great travel memories can be made from one-tank road trips. They’re fun, affordable and great for people of all ages.

Start planning your next affordable road trip with the following smart tips and tricks.

• Discover one-tank destinations. You only need one day to get away, so research destinations you can get to on one tank of gas. This keeps fuel costs down, and because you don’t need to stay overnight you won’t have to budget for a hotel. People tend to forget the beautiful spots just a few hours away from home, so bring a map and see which direction catches your attention.

• Fill up the tires. Of course you’ll want to check your fluid levels, wiper blades, and spare tire before you leave. One of the best ways to maximize your vehicle’s fuel efficiency is to make sure tires are properly inflated. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can improve your gas mileage by 0.6 percent on average and up to 3 percent in some cases simply by keeping your tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.

• Pack smart. Whether you’re on an impromptu or well-planned road trip, you can ease costs and streamline fun by packing wisely. Sunscreen, sunglasses and comfortable shoes are must-haves for any road trip. After all, you never know what adventures will come your way.

(BPT)