ehhh, I just drove cross country in January, and my jeep contained all my worldly posessions. I actually measured the mileage to be 19.9mpg, and that was driving like 75-80. I was impressed with it.
Looks like lift tickets are $45, unless I read the website wrong.
The hostel I found nearby (not sure if it's the closest one -
http://www.bingenschool.com/), is $19 a night for a dorm bed, or $45 for a 2 person private room. However, if you stay at that hostel, you can get lift tickets for $25, which is pretty sweet.
I'd be down to camp too, but I have no tent or anything.