When taking a road trip, we sometimes let the financial side of things slip a little. After all, for many of us, it only happens once a year. We tend to indulge and forget about our wallet.

However, some close attention to the financials now and during your trip will save you lots of headaches and interest charges on your credit card balances later. You will thank yourself for your fiscal restraint and spending discipline.

Here are nine tips to help you save money on your next road trip.

1. Maximize gas mileage and efficiency. A well-maintained vehicle will go a long way to ensure carefree driving. It’s best to travel in a small economy car, either your own or a rental. The smaller the vehicle, the better it will be on gas. Minivans and sport utility vehicles are practical only if you have to transport a large family and lots of equipment or luggage.
2. Pack a snack. Bring your own refreshments and snacks. Gas station prices on drinks and snack food are high. Avoid them during a pit stop if you are counting your travel dollars. A cooler packed with lots of cold drinks, water and ice and/or a thermos of coffee or hot water for tea, some fruit, granola bars, and sandwiches, all go a long way to stilling hunger and saving you money by avoiding high priced stops en route.
3. Be creative with meals. A picnic or a quick bite to eat on the beach or in a park is one of the best ways to keep your food costs down and save your travel dollars for the evenings and dinners out. Also, eating at a supermarket deli counter can be much cheaper than fast-food locations or expensive restaurants.
4. Watch your gas gage. For filling up your car en route, avoid pushing your tank to the limit and having to fill up in remote locations. The more isolated the station is, the more expensive the gas will be. If you miscalculated and the light on the dashboard indicates that you are really in need, opt for filling just half a tank until you reach the next densely populated destination, where gas will likely be cheaper.
5. Carry extra rechargeable batteries and a charger kit. You’ll avoid the high cost of batteries at tourist traps or, worse, not being able to take the footage or pictures you want, because the power on your camera or video recorder has run out.
6. Pack a first aid kit. It can prove to be essential, and will doubtless save you some money in an emergency. First aid kits should contain, at the very least, some band-aids and anti-bacterial ointment, your prescription medications, cold and allergy medicines, pain relievers and a dosage spoon.
7. Avoid pricey hotel phone charges. Pre-paid phone cards are a good alternative to long distance charges from your hotel room. You might also choose to use your cell phone for phone calls and text messages to stay in touch while on the road. Cell phone long distance calls are still cheaper than ones made from hotels or resorts. These places typically add hefty surcharges and tend to charge higher long distance rates.
8. Don’t forget the little things. Carrying a variety of practical items in a handy spot in your luggage can prove to be a real money-saver. A quick stop into the dollar store before you leave home for items like rubber bands, a small tube of instant glue, paper clips, masking tape, Velcro, tissue-paper, and sewing kit could save you time and money.
9. Keep a spending log. List all of your purchases, including gas, accommodations, food, activities and shopping. The next time you have to make up a travel budget, you’ll have everything at your fingertips. You’ll be one step ahead and even better prepared.