Air Travel Vs. Car Travel

Both air travel and car travel offer distinct pros and cons. (Photo: airplane image by Christine F Saulnier from Fotolia.com )

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At one time, car travel was always less expensive but less convenient than air travel. In an era of high gas prices, enhanced airport security and airfare wars, the comparison is not as cut and dried. When deciding which way to travel, be sure to consider all the factors. Each method of travel offers its own pros and cons, and your ultimate decision will be based on what is most important to you.

Price

To determine whether car travel or air travel is less expensive, consider the total price of each trip. For example, a budget travel website may advertise airfare without taxes, surcharges and baggage fees, which could add hundreds of dollars to the final price. Figuring the gas price of a car trip may not be accurate if the trip will require overnight motel stops and several meals along the way. Add all the expenses for each method of travel together, and then compare the final results.

Comfort

Time Considerations

On long distance trips, air travel is significantly faster than car travel, as long as your flight is not delayed or canceled. The more segments in your journey, the greater your risk of encountering a delayed flight or even being bumped due to overcrowding. On shorter trips, the length of time you must spend in airports could be a factor. Most airlines recommend that you arrive at least an hour before the flight to get through security. Claiming checked baggage could add another 30 minutes to the trip. If the distance is relatively short, spending those extra hours in the car rather than at the airport could negate the faster speed of air travel.

Potential Problems

Weather delays are a common concern for both road trips and flights. Unlike an airplane, however, you may be able to route your car trip around significant weather problems. Even if you must stop, on a car trip you are in control of your hotel and dining options. If a flight is delayed due to weather, you may be responsible for paying for your own accommodations and dining, but your options are limited to airport hotels or those accessible by public transportation.

If your car breaks down on a road trip, you are responsible for getting it fixed and securing your own accommodations while repairs are being done. If your flight is delayed due to a mechanical failure on the airplane, the airline is generally responsible for your lodging and dining.

Making a Decision

Each person has different needs and requirements, which may vary by trip. For example, on a trip with small children your primary concern may be keeping their schedule as intact as possible. When traveling with adult friends, you may be most concerned about price. Gather as much information as possible in each category, and then decide which factors are most important to you.