Going on a road trip? Here are smart ways to save but still feel like a VIP       

Long drives out of town present a perfect chance to bond with friends and family this summer. But even in the era of revenge travel, the recent tumultuous times showed us that we still have to spend our money smart while experiencing life like a VIP!

Here are some ways to help you enjoy life’s little luxuries on the road without breaking the bank.

Plan an itinerary without side trips

As they say, “Out of sight, out of mind.” Sticking to a plan means your shopaholic sister wouldn’t spend too much time and money on a shop she saw on the road that is not part of your itinerary. Suggest to her that you visit the place next time instead.

Stay within the budget

Having a spreadsheet of your budget for food, lodging, and gas will not only keep you organized but also prevent fights and keep your friendship or relationship intact after the trip. Have a consensus to stick within the budget so you will still have some extra cash in case of emergencies.

Bring essentials like water to avoid overpriced items on-site

The prices of water and other essentials are often jacked up in remote places or tourist spots where there are no sari-sari stores nearby. Make sure to bring some of the items on your trip to manage your expenses.

Book hostel rooms during off-peak season

Staying in a hostel room is much cheaper than a hotel. Now imagine going out of town during off-peak season. If you are not a fan of big crowds and avoid festivals and fiestas, this is your best option to not burn cash. 

Sign up for McDonald’s Drive-Thru VIP program

McDonald’s has launched its newest program, the Drive-Thru VIP, where people on the go can get VIP deals. Families, couples, and barkadas will enjoy VIP perks such as a free hash brown for every breakfast deal to uplift your mornings, discounted family bundles that are easy and delicious pasalubong (VIP Group Offer), a Double Cheeseburger Medium Meal discounted at P99 to give you a preview of the exciting deals on the app (VIP Welcome Offer), and more rewards each month only VIPs can access!

We chanced upon a mom who snagged a family bundle from the McDonald’s Drive-Thru. Jing Tiu, a single mother, said the savings from the Chicken McDo and McNuggets bundles were worth the trip. “Now that Mcdo is also everywhere on MacArthur Highway, I will be using the app more,” she said.

A financial consultant, Kathy Mallari, who brings her husband and two kids to McDonald’s Drive-Thru once a week, shared she did not hesitate to sign up for the McDonald’s Drive-Thru VIP program on the McDonald’s App. “I like to get ahead at good deals and promos,” she explained. “The discount vouchers are always a treat!” 

For her, the VIP Group Offer for affordable family bundles is a lifesaver. The money-smart mom added that she plans to get quick buys from the McDonald’s Drive-Thru VIP to enjoy more rewards, especially when she doesn’t have time to cook.

The McDonald’s Drive-Thru VIP program is also a hit among couples. Sweethearts Rona Magdalaga and Emman Angelo would often order McCrispy Chicken Sandwich, BFF Fries, McFloat, and Chicken McNuggets for their road trip dates. These romantic moments are even made special now that they get rewarded for every drive-thru visit at McDonald’s.

“It is faster, and you can even enjoy the VIP treatment plus it comes with exclusive promos and discounts,” Magdalaga shared. “I love it! I’m looking forward to more drive-thru’s through the app,” she said while munching her discounted Double Cheeseburger.

Even barkadas are all praises for the VIP treatment of those who signed up for the program on the app. “The McDonald’s Drive-Thru VIP makes us feel special because the discounts and deals seem tailor-made to fit our barkada’s needs and cravings,” said Rens Estipular who brought her friends to McDonald’s Drive-Thru for a quick bite. “With the savings we get, my loved ones and I can get our faves!”

Planning your next road trip? Whether you’re on the steering wheel, riding shotgun, or a passenger princess or prince in the backseat, everyone can now experience the VIP treatment at McDonald’s Drive-Thru! All you need to do is register as a Drive-Thru VIP member on the McDonald’s app to get exclusive deals and surprises that you can experience with every ride.

Enjoy exclusive perks when you sign up as a Drive-Thru VIP in the McDonald’s App!

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Editor’s Note: BrandedUp is designed to provide you with insightful, inspiring and educational content created by PhilSTAR L!fe in collaboration with brands like McDonald's Philippines.