Always on these forums are dollar-per-day figures brought up. I've found in my personal experience that they are always on the high side [for me]. I don't hotel/motel/hostel, and if you're able and willing, food *can* be inexpensive. I'd like to also add that I am a foodie, and refuse to eat instant ramen or any kind of nonsense like that. Touring is the most affordable mode of transportation, but can easily be made the most expensive (save first-class airlining, I suppose).