Travel Itinerary: Lake Havasu City, AZ to Hershey, PA via Interstate 80 (July 21 - July 25, 2025)

Day 1: July 21 - Departure and Scenic Drive through Nevada

Morning: Depart early from Lake Havasu City, AZ and begin your journey heading northeast. Plan a quick stop in Las Vegas, NV to refuel with cheap gas and grab a budget breakfast.

Afternoon: Continue east on Interstate 80 through Nevada's vast desert landscapes. Stop for a stretch and berry picking at Ruby Mountains (seasonal wild berries may be available). Enjoy stunning mountainous scenery.

Evening: Check into a budget-friendly motel in Elko, NV. Use apps like GasBuddy and Booking.com to find cheap gas and hotel deals under $70.

Day 2: July 22 - Crossing Utah’s Natural Beauty

Morning: Drive from Elko into Utah and enjoy scenic views of the Great Salt Lake from a safe viewpoint. Stop for some fresh air and photos.

Afternoon: Continue driving east on I-80 through Salt Lake City; refuel with economical gas options and grab lunch locally. Then proceed towards Wyoming, passing through beautiful rolling hills and wide open spaces. Consider a quick berry picking stop at Antelope Island State Park if time permits.

Evening: Overnight stay at an affordable hotel or motel near Rock Springs, WY, using discount booking apps to stay within budget.

Day 3: July 23 - Wyoming to Nebraska, Plains and Local Produce

Morning: Depart Rock Springs and head into the scenic Wyoming plains. Take a refreshing break in Fort Bridger State Historical Site.

Afternoon: Cross into Nebraska and enjoy wide prairies with flower blooms. Stop for berry picking at the Schramm Park State Recreation Area near Omaha, known for natural beauty and local produce.

Evening: Book an economical hotel room in Omaha, NE, where rates are affordable, to rest up.

Day 4: July 24 - Indiana’s Greenery and Berry Picking

Morning: Continue east through Indiana on I-80/I-90. Enjoy lush countryside landscapes and plan a stop at a local berry farm such as Cider Hill Family Orchard for berry picking and light snacks.

Afternoon: Explore brief scenic spots like the Indiana Dunes National Park along Lake Michigan if time allows. Refuel with affordable gas in small towns.

Evening: Overnight at a budget hotel near South Bend, IN to stay within budget.

Day 5: July 25 - Final Stretch to Hershey, PA

Morning: Depart early from South Bend, heading into Ohio and Pennsylvania through lovely woodlands. Stop for a rest and final berry picking at Raspberry Ridge Farms, near Harrisburg, PA.

Afternoon: Arrive in Hershey, PA by mid-afternoon. Settle into your accommodation for your travel nursing assignment.

Evening: Stroll around Hershey’s downtown area and enjoy the atmosphere by visiting Hershey’s Chocolate World (free entry) for a relaxing first evening after your trip.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Gas Stops (5 days total driving, approx. 2200 miles): ~35 hours driving, Estimated Cost: $400
• Hotel Stays (4 nights, budget motels): ~8 hours per night rest, Estimated Cost: $280 ($70/night avg)
• Berry Picking & Local Stops: ~10 hours total, Estimated Cost: $40 (small entry/parking fees or purchases)
• Food & Snacks: Estimated Cost: $220 (budget meals and snacks)

Total Estimated Cost: $940

Tips

If you prefer a shorter trip, consider driving longer daily distances and reducing stops for berry picking and sightseeing. Alternatively, to extend your trip, you could add extra days by exploring national parks and small towns along I-80 more thoroughly, or enjoy longer berry picking excursions and local farmer’s markets. Booking hotels with flexible cancellation can help adapt your plans on the road depending on how much time you desire.