I was able to earn $281.58 from my latest road trip, after fuel expenses it was a profit of $124.77 (wear and tear excluded)
The wife and I bought a used Honda Odyssey just before we had our second kid. The sliding doors are just great, and the cargo space is huge when the 3rd row seats are down - good for both my side hustle and hers. Also for making money on a road trip.
We live in southern AZ, and there was a convention for my wife's business in Anaheim, CA that she wanted to attend. So I took a few days off work, booked an AirBNB, and thought of some ways to make money off it. I had watched the show 'Shipping Wars' recently, so figured I could check the website they use on the show - uShip - to see if there was anything I could bring with me to earn a bit of scratch.
One listing needed wheels transported from Phoenix to near Anaheim. I had the lowest bid and it would earn me $82.51 after fees. On the way back I was selected to bring an antique dresser back to Arizona, earning $167.37 for the trouble.
I also used a few apps that pay a few dollars per gig. They require you to photograph certain products on the shelves and on displays. I sometimes perform the jobs around town, but often other people reserve them. In smaller towns the jobs usually never get done. On the trip I did 5 gigs that earned me a total of $31.70.
82.51 + 167.37 + 31.70 = $281.58
Subtract the cost of gas and I had $124.77 remaining. If the trip wasn't already tax deductible for my wife's business, it would be for the miles driven hauling these items.
If you wish, I have pics and more details on my blog, link in signature.