As gas prices and airfare soar, is it cheaper to fly or drive when traveling on a budget?

If you're traveling domestically in the U.S. and trying to save money, deciding whether to drive or fly can be an important decision.You may assume a road trip is always cheaper for those traveling on a budget, but as fuel prices surge due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, that's not necessarily true. As of July 24, 2026, AAA pegged the national average fuel price at $4.10 per gallon for regular gasoline, up from $3.16 from this time last year.It goes without saying that flying is almost always faster than driving, but, as with calculating the cost of driving to your destination, airfare prices are similarly volatile right now. Domestic airfare for summer 2026 is trending nearly 15% higher than last year, and that goes for cash fares and points pricing alike.In 2026, the cheapest option isn't always what you might think, especially when you factor in credit cards, points and miles and rewards programs that can help you save.Here's how to determine which transport mode is best for you and your budget.How to calculate the cost of driving vs. flyingTHOMAS BARWICK/GETTY IMAGESIt's best to start by breaking out some good ol' pen and paper (and ideally a calculator, unless you ...