Jeff

I have a wedding I need to be at the second week of October. It's about 800 miles (one way). My car starting to age (100,000). Flight for me and my fiance are $300/person. However a rental car is about $90 for 4 days. Who would take the rental car and drive a full day there and back vs $600 in plane tickets?

DeeDee

1600 miles for a four day trip is too much. Can you take the train?

jerry

$300 per person is not bad price. This is what I would do.

jeff

No train is available.
Obviously, I would rather fly, but I recently started a new job and am getting married soon - so I am on a bit of a tight budget.

DeeDee

Jeff, not to sound mean but have you thought of buying a new car? You are going to have to spend money anyway so why don't you just put it towards a new car?

kb

Obviously if the guy doesn't want to spend the money on the airfare he doesn't want to spend the money on a new car. Jeff, it will be more than the $90, figure in for gas, probably two or three meals on the road, that kind of thing.

Personally, I love a good road trip so I'd do the drive if it were through some part of the country I was interested in. Road trips with your sweetie can be fun! Just don't get pissy if she has trouble with the map. I hate that.

What part of the country are you talking about.

Jeff

You're right DeeDee. I wish I could. With the upcoming wedding and all that goes with it, I'm just trying to get some more life out of my car. It's paid off, and I'm not quite ready to start another payment (at least until I pay off the ring).

jeff

I know I won't mind the drive there. I will get a little tired on the drive back, but I made plenty of long drives before, and you're right, I think I can be fun. I'm going from central Oklahoma to west central Georgia.

kb

Well I know nothing about that part of the country so I can't say much about that. But I know I wouldn't mind missing out on all the crap at the airport.

kkj

Jeff I would drive if I had to go. Although you need to add in some money for food and gas it will still be cheaper. Don't forget that you'll have all those taxes and extra charges for the car as well. It's a long drive so you are going to be tired.

Is it absolutely essential that you attend the wedding? I'm sure the bridal couple will understand someone who isn't able to make an out of town trip for a wedding.

DeeDee

Jeff, I'd fly. Good luck with your upcoming wedding!

Jeff

Yes, I must be there, I'm in it.

No, I guess I don't know about all the taxes and fees. I'm looking at an intermediate car from avis - 4 days, $78.00. It said somethings about $11.00 in taxes. Are there more? I've never rented a car.
Also what are the chances of finding good airfare as the dates get closer?

Rainy

Taxes depend on where you pick up the car - here in Seattle where it's 35% tax on cars you could easily add on another $30 or so...

John

Jeff, you don't say how old you are but you do have to be 25 in most places to (a) rent or (b) avoid expensive surcharges. FYI. If you're over 25, disregard!

Enjoy your trip. (I'd drive it, too!)

sd

Have you tried Enterprise Rent A Car? I've always had good luck with renting their cars and they have weekend specials.

George

Jeff: If you're under 30 and in good shape, do the drive. Get your fiancee listed as a second driver--she can spell you. And start fresh: Leaving right after work doesn't cut it.

There've been two accidents recently in my area. One was an Army Capt (with wife and child,) coming up from NC and headed somewhere in upstate PA, I believe. All three died in the 5:30 AM crash. The other was similar, but only one was in the car (also fatal.)

I used to do that. Get off work in Upper Michigan and drive home to Central PA. 800 miles. That was when I was 19. Now I'm 60. Today it would be a 2-day trip. And I'd start fresh.