Five Reasons Why Summer Road Trips Using the PA Turnpike Are Better than Flying
When planning for a summer vacation, one of the first decisions you make is how to get to your destination. In our opinion, driving the PA Turnpike can be a better option than flying. And we are not alone in that belief. A recent poll commissioned by Michelin and conducted by OnePoll, shows that three out of four Americans prefer driving to their vacation destination over flying. Here are five reasons why.
Driving The PA Turnpike Is Cheaper
If you are traveling with more than one person, the odds are driving is cheaper. The price of the plane ticket, baggage fees and other hidden airline charges can quickly accumulate. Add to that tally, the cost of airport snacks and drinks, which is typically 10-15% more than average street prices, plus parking or shuttle fees, and you are forking over a significant amount of money before you even arrive at your destination.
When you drive the PA Turnpike, all you pay for is the toll for your trip and the cost of gas. Those costs are the same no matter how many people are in your vehicle. And, if you have an E-ZPass, you can save nearly 60% on your tolls. You can even calculate the actual cost of your trip ahead of time by using the PA Turnpike's toll calculator.
You Can Bring More Stuff
Have you ever had to leave things behind or throw things out because your suitcase is too heavy, or you have too many bags? When you drive the PA Turnpike, you can pack all your personal items within as many bags as you like because there are no baggage fees, strict rules or weight limits. You also can bring sports equipment, camping gear and other larger items that can be tricky to take on a flight.
Have a furry friend you do not want to leave behind? No problem. There is no pet policy or extra charge for bringing your dog or cat. In addition, several of our service plazas have dedicated dog walking areas.
You Are In Control
Driving to your destination puts you in control. You decide when to leave, when to take a break, who you travel alongside, when and what you eat. When you fly, your flight’s departure time and the airport typically dictate your schedule. Security checkpoints often require you to arrive two hours before your plane departs… and that is on a typical travel day. Many airports are advising summer travelers to arrive at least three hours before their departure time.
Prefer a window or aisle seat? Choosing where you sit often requires paying an extra fee. In addition, your food choices are limited to what options the terminal offers and what is open.
located right off the PA Turnpike. But when you are flying, you are at the mercy of the pilot and whether the ‘fasten seatbelt” sign is lit.
Airlines Are Not Always Reliable
There has been a significant increase in people getting stranded when traveling by air. A spike in severe weather events and a shortage of pilots and crew members have caused flight delays and cancellations. Once your flight is canceled or delayed, getting to your destination can be a long, tedious process that makes your vacation memorable in all the wrong ways.
Getting stuck on a road trip is far less likely. While you might run into the occasional traffic jam or accident, there are multiple apps to help you find alternate routes. In addition, if you get delayed, you can always pull off the road, take a break, grab a bite or explore.
You Can Enjoy The Ride
Let's face it. Flying has its challenges. Between the long security lines and delays, wrestling with luggage, cramming into middle seats and worrying about making your connection, air travel can be stressful. When you drive, you can enjoy the journey just as much as your final destination. And if you are traveling the PA Turnpike, you can rest easy knowing you have 24/7 access to roadside assistance in the event of an emergency.
Driving lets you experience roadside attractions, scenic landscapes, historical sites and unforgettable restaurants. It allows you to build memories and spend time with the people you love. And you can listen to whatever music you like, as loud as you like, and without the earplugs.
Driving along the PA Turnpike, is the best way to experience all Pennsylvania has to offer. Check out the PA Turnpike's Exit and Explore page to plot out your next road trip.