Travel Itinerary: Lake Havasu City, AZ to Hershey, PA - July 21 to July 25, 2025

Day 1: Departure from Lake Havasu City

Morning: Begin your journey early with a full tank of gas from a to maximize savings. Pack some light snacks for the road to avoid extra costs.

Afternoon: Stop around Flagstaff, AZ for a scenic break and quick lunch. Enjoy views of the Coconino National Forest to refresh during the long drive eastward.

Evening: Arrive in Albuquerque, NM for an overnight stay at an affordable motel offering rooms under $70. Take a short walk to explore Old Town Albuquerque.

Day 2: Journey through the Midwest

Morning: Continue east, focusing on fuel-efficient driving. Stop for a brief walk at Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma for gorgeous natural scenery and photo opportunities.

Afternoon: Grab a budget-friendly lunch in Tulsa, OK. Then resume travel through Arkansas, capturing beautiful views of the Ozark Mountains.

Evening: Stay overnight in Little Rock, AR at a mid-range hotel with prices around $60-$75. Consider dining at a low-cost local eatery for a warm meal.

Day 3: Approaching Pennsylvania with Scenic Stops

Morning: Drive through Tennessee stopping at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for berry picking at a licensed farm or trailside (season dependent). Ideal for fresh air and nature.

Afternoon: Continue to Roanoke, VA, enjoying scenic mountain drives. Stretch legs with a visit to Mill Mountain Park for great vista views.

Evening: Overnight stay in Roanoke at an economy hotel or motel around $65-$80. Rest up for the final travel leg.

Day 4: Final Leg to Hershey, PA

Morning: Depart early for Hershey, PA. Drive through rural Pennsylvania, stopping briefly at a local berry farm or roadside stand for more berry picking and fresh produce.

Afternoon: Arrive in Hershey and check into a budget hotel or extended stay facility (~$80-$100 nightly). Spend time exploring Hershey Gardens and the countryside.

Evening: Relax in the hotel or visit local affordable eateries to taste Hershey specialties without breaking the budget.

Day 5: Rest and Preparation for Assignment

Morning: Light local exploration of Hersheypark (outside the park area) and nearby walking trails to enjoy the scenery.

Afternoon: Finalize travel nursing assignment requirements and visit local markets for snacks and supplies.

Evening: Early rest to prepare for your work assignment the following day.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Gasoline (approx. 2,400 miles at $3.50/gallon, 25 MPG) - ~96 gallons - $336
• 3 Hotel Nights (Albuquerque, Little Rock, Roanoke) - Approx. $210 total
• 1 Hotel Night in Hershey - Approx. $90
• Food and Snacks - Approx. $80 (self-packed snacks + budget meals)
• Berry Picking & Park Access (Great Smoky Mountains Farm, Hershey Gardens) - $30

Total Estimated Cost: $746

Tips

If you prefer a shorter trip, consider flying from a nearby Phoenix airport directly to Harrisburg International Airport and renting a car for local berry picking and scenic outings to save time. For a longer, more relaxed trip, add overnight stays in scenic locales such as Nashville, TN or Gettysburg, PA to explore historic sites and extend berry picking opportunities while pacing your drive more comfortably.