Exploring National Parks On A Budget Lazy Budget Travel Tips podcast

20h ago 44:17

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In this episode of the Lazy Budget Travel Tips podcast, Genni Franklin is joined by Teresa Kul, a national parks enthusiast who has visited 356 out of 433 park sites, including all 50 states.

We’re diving into one of the most scenic (and surprisingly strategic!) travel topics: how to plan a national park trip without blowing your budget.

Whether you dream of hiking through Zion, exploring caves in Kentucky, or relaxing by alpine lakes in Montana, this episode is packed with tips for stretching your dollars, using travel rewards wisely, and even finding last-minute lodging like a pro.

In This Episode:

How Teresa visited 356+ National Park sites (and counting!)
The best seasons to visit popular parks to avoid crowds and save money
Smart strategies for booking national park lodging, even if it’s last-minute
Renting a car for less using AutoSlash
Packing food like a pro to avoid overpriced meals in-park
Why Best Western and Hyatt are two underrated hotel options for park stays
How to use points (like Chase Ultimate Rewards and Delta SkyMiles) to make national park trips more affordable
Tips for families, solo travelers, and anyone who wants gorgeous views without death-defying hikes
Rapid fire favorites: dream parks, best hikes, go-to snacks, and more

Whether you're just getting into Points & Miles or already have a park pass packed with stamps, this one’s for you.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:18 The Allure of National Parks
03:13 Favorite National Parks and Experiences
07:12 Planning Tips and Best Times to Visit
08:08 Accommodation Strategies
15:18 Underrated National Parks to Visit
20:24 Transportation and Car Rentals
21:56 Booking Rental Cars with AutoSlash
22:49 Saving Money on Hotel Bookings
23:38 Packing Food for National Park Trips
24:40 Hydration and Hiking Tips
27:04 Leveraging Points and Miles
29:25 Choosing the Right Credit Cards
37:46 Rapid Fire Questions
40:33 Where to Find More Information

Resources Mentioned:

Teresa’s Blog: AnAcreInTheCity.com
Teresa's 3 Secrets to Your Best National Parks Trip Freebie
Teresa's YouTube Channel
The Ultimate Girls Trip to Shenandoah Valley blog post
Spending a Fun 2 Days in Shenandoah National Park Itinerary blog post

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12 episodes