A little preplanning can save you from having to buy those pricey bags of chips at roadside gas stations.
Before you leave, visit your local grocery store and stock up on snacks and drinks, then toss them in a cooler that's small enough to stash in the back seat or trunk, says Stacey Hylen, a business coach in Montreal who spent seven years on the road while working in sales.
If your trip is long enough to require a restaurant meal, sit down for road food during the first half of the day to save money.
"Breakfast and lunch are always priced lower than dinner," says Karen Hoxmeier, a mom of three and founder of the bargains website MyBargainBuddy.com. "When you dine out, make dinner your lightest meal."
Also, look online for coupons for chain restaurants commonly found just off the highway. For example, the bar-and-grill chain Chili's frequently puts out money-saving printable offers on its website and via email.