My first "Tour" was this ride, SAGBRAW, when I began cycling. I had never ridden the distances day after day, and was curious how I would do. So the supported route made sense. I only paid for the tour and the shuttle to the ride start. I paid for my meals each day. When I did it, there were groups and organizations doing meals along the way, and at the days end location, or I would hit a joint along the route or in town. So many dollars can be added to the trip, or not. Personal preference.