travel for cheap usa

Budget Travel Buff

20 Cheapest Places to Travel in the USA on a Budget in 2023

Looking for cheap places to visit in the US? You’re in luck! Traveling in the US doesn’t have to be expensive, despite what many people think. You may find several affordable vacation spots in the US that won’t break the bank with some advance planning.

Whether you’re seeking an urban experience or a nature-filled escape, there are several winter budget-friendly destinations in the USA that offer something for everyone. So, grab your suitcase and let’s explore the cheapest places to travel in the USA on a budget!

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay any extra penny, but I’ll get a small commission that encourages me to deliver more helpful content for you.  

If you’re traveling on a strict budget , keep these affordable US destinations in mind. Before visiting these places, you should also know how to travel cheap in the US . For affordable activities and fun, explore hot springs in the USA , stroll the downtowns, visit zoos, play in the park, and visit the beaches.

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Table of Contents

1. san antonio, texas.

San Antonio, one of the most colorful destinations in the USA , is a perfect blend of American history and Mexican culture that makes it one of the cheapest cities in the USA to visit. The city is renowned for its 18th-century Alamo Mission which is well preserved as a living history museum with no entry fee.

San Antonio is a city in south-central Texas that is rich in history, culture, and charm. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as the Alamo, the River Walk, and the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, all while enjoying the city’s vibrant arts and culinary scenes.

With a range of affordable lodging options and plenty of free or low-cost activities, San Antonio is a great destination for budget travelers and backpackers looking to experience the best of Texas. Don’t forget to use VIA Metropolitan Transit which is the cheapest option to get around San Antonio.

Cheap Things to do in San Antonio:

• San Antonio tour is incomplete without a stroll along the river walk through the city. The whole strip is lined up with award-winning restaurants, shops, and live entertainment.
• Visit the Alamo which is not too far from the river walk. It is one of the best things to do in San Antonio and a great place to know the rich history of the state of Texas. Take some stunning pictures of this great architecture.
• Visiting the Japanese Tea Garden is another popular free thing that you can enjoy in San Antonio. It is an ideal place for a romantic walk. There is a beautiful waterfall also in this garden.
• San Pedro Creek Culture Park is definitely one tourist spot in San Antonio that you won’t want to miss. Admire the beauty of this park that offers a combination of art, nature, and culture. A perfect place for a photoshoot or a romantic stroll.
• If you are planning to visit a lot of attractions and explore this city completely, then I highly recommend you to buy San Antonio Attractions Pass: Four or Five Top Attractions for $87.99.

San Antonio Travel Budget:

• Hostel Prices:  $40/night (book Cheap Hostel )
• Cheap Hotel and Rental Apartment:  $40-$120/night (see on  Booking.com )
• Cheap flights to San Antonio: from $89 if you fly from New York
• Meals at an inexpensive restaurant per day : $20-30
• Local transport : $25

Related Post : 10 Most Affordable Cities to Live in Texas

2. Memphis, Tennessee

As a budget-friendly travel destination in the United States, Memphis, Tennessee offers a variety of affordable attractions and activities. You can explore Beale Street, the “Home of the Blues,” and listen to live music for free at many of the bars and clubs.

A unique shopping and entertainment center called The Memphis Pyramid has a free observation deck with sweeping city views. Pay a little admission fee to view the history of soul music at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

Explore Overton Park, a sizable park featuring green areas, walking pathways, and a zoo, or take a leisurely stroll along the Mississippi River. With its rich musical heritage, unique landmarks, and affordable options, Memphis is a great option for budget-conscious travelers looking for a memorable experience without breaking the bank.

3. El Paso, Texas

Historical places, vibrant cities, and a strong military scene make El Paso a cheap place to travel as a teenager in the United States. On the left bank of the Rio Grande and west of Texas sits this gorgeous desert landscape that is ripe for adventure. 

Have you ever thought about driving along the winding road as you increase in elevation? Driving along Franklin Mountain is a divine experience. El Paso is also called ‘Sun City’. Its sprawling nature makes it ideal for hikers and rock climbers. 

Cheap Things to do in El Paso:

• Just 30 miles northeast of downtown El Paso sits Hueco Tanks, a recreational hotspot for bird watchers, campers, hikers, and rock climbers. The rock formation and natural basins make the place very pictographic.
• Take a fun free tour of Plaza Theater happening each Wednesday at noon. The architecture reflects the design of the Spanish Colonial Revival style with ornamental metal railing, and antique furniture as if you are in the old times. 
• Explore the multicultural heritage site, Mission Trail which is considered the oldest mission in Texas in the 17th and 18th centuries. Also, taking the Ysleta Mission way to drive is breath-taking
• Enjoy the impressive art collection at the El Paso Museum of Art which showcases art from the 12th century to the current time. Do you want to miss that?

4. Daytona, Florida

You must add a beach to your list of cheap vacations in the US. If you are a beach lover Daytona can be a great place to stop at and enjoy on a budget. Daytona is cheaper when compared to other expensive places in the US.

With its 23 miles of white sandy beaches, free beach access, and numerous affordable accommodations, Daytona is a great option for budget-conscious travelers. With unlimited options for free things to do and reasonable hotels and restaurants, Daytona is not only an inexpensive place in Florida but also one of the cheapest places to travel in the USA.

Cheap Things to do in Daytona:

• Take a free guided tour around Angell & Phelps Chocolate factory .
• If you visit Daytona Beach in the summer, don’t miss the free Bandshell concert. From jazz to Latin music, you can enjoy any type of musical style from May to September each Friday and Saturday evening.
• Honeymooners can go for a long stroll along the miles of sandy beaches or look out for sea turtles.
• Photography enthusiasts must visit the Southeast Museum of Photography which is Florida’s official museum of photography.

Daytona Travel Budget:

• Cheap Hotel and Rental Apartment : $55-$120/night (see on Booking.com )
• Cheap flights to Daytona Beach: from $97 if you fly from New York
• Local transport : $20-25
• 10 Cheapest Places to Live in Florida
• 10 Most Beautiful Campgrounds in Florida

5. Ocala, Florida

Just imagine you’re in the middle of untainted nature where you can see oaks trees lined along the pathway with Spanish moss dangling on the trellises, and at far you can spot sand pine forest and fresh air brushing your hair, how does that feel? 

Welcome to Ocala, one of the cheapest places to visit in the USA. It is also known as the Horse Capital of the World. It sits in Marion County, Florida, famous for freshwater streams, rolling hills, and clean air. Also, it is very quiet and fun!

Cheap Things to do in Ocala:

• Come for a walk at Sholom Park. This 44-acre land sits alongside a formal garden, an azalea trail, a ginger garden, and a labyrinth, with a lot of trees, shrubs, and perennials.
• Do you know that Ocala is home to the Juniper Prairie Wilderness? It covers over 14,000 acres of land space with grass prairie, untouched sand pine scrub, marshes, hardwood swamp, and pine Flatwoods. 
• Enjoy fishing, cannon, swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving in the Alexander Springs Recreational Area, a unique freshwater spring .
• Plan a dinner date at Blue Wagyu restaurant to taste the famous tender Wagyu beef with cream and sauces. 
• For the view of an untouched ecosystem like cypress swamps and Florida’s wilderness, follow the Santos Trail. 
• Walk along the third largest forest in the state, Withlacoochee State Park to witness natural beauty. However, remember to watch the documentary at the visitor’s center before exploring.

6. Clearwater, Florida

Nestled on Florida’s west coast near Tampa sits Clearwater, a rare precious jewel. If you’re looking for a warm winter vacation in the US on a budget then look no further than Clearwater . It offers you tranquil white sand beaches, refreshing gulf breeze, and gorgeous nature.

The blue water and isolated state park hold a record for consecutive sunny days ranging below the 70s in the winters. Also, enjoying the gulf seafood, and beach bars during the sunsets are so exciting and memorable events. 

During my visit, I spent most of my time lounging on the beach and enjoying the warm, crystal-clear waters. I also took advantage of the many affordable seafood restaurants in the area and even went on a dolphin-watching tour . Overall, Clearwater was a great choice for a relaxing and affordable beach vacation.

Cheap Things to do in Clearwater:

• To marine lovers, Clearwater is the best place to spot bottlenose dolphin pods on the surface as they happily go around. You can never miss this place!
• If you never witnessed Matisse paintings, then come to Clearwater Beach during sunset. The tropical sunset against sapphire blue water and soft white sands is mesmerizing.
• Come to Clearwater Memorial Causeway bridge to witness the sun coming up from the horizon and filling the sky with different shades of yellow, peach, and rose.
• Hiking in the woods, walking by the beach, and climbing mountains are mesmerizing. But do you know what is more mesmerizing?  Watching black birds in the sky dancing as if in a form of aerial ballet
• Explore Clearwater by foot, and walk along the Historic Harbour Oaks neighborhood to reach Fort Harrison and further. 
• Take a bicycle and ride from St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs taking the Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail
• Clearwater Beach is also called Spring Break Capital for a reason. But if you’re like me and love offbeat places then come to North Beach across Causeway Bridge

7. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

You know what they say, nothing good comes for free of cost. However, in Philadelphia, that’s not entirely true. In fact, there are loads of fun, exciting, entertaining and even adventurous things that one can enjoy. Philadelphia is located on the Northeast side of the United States.

The City of Brotherly Love is packed with historical sites, brewery tours, delicious cuisines and many more. Philadelphia is also considered one of the best solo travel destinations in the USA for its friendly locals, good public transport, cheap and safe accommodation options and unlimited free things to enjoy.

If you are not a liquor person, dining out will be pocket friendly in Philadelphia. While traveling in Philadelphia, collect a one-day Independence Pass which is only $11 per person or $28 per family, and allows you to ride on any bus, trolley, subway, or train.

Cheap Things to do in Philadelphia:

• Independence Hall  is the first thing that you should visit in Philadelphia. Yes, it’s totally Free. A guided tour is part of your admission. This signature building has huge importance in history where the Declaration of Independence was adopted in 1776.
• The Rocky Statue and the Rocky Steps  are other popular sites where you can run up 72 steps to the Philadelphia Museum of Art  and give a ceremonious fist pump at the top. Both are Free.
• Visit th e United States Mint  where you can learn the mystery behind the fascinating coin-making process via a self-guided free tour. It is really an interesting and worth visiting place in Philadelphia.
• Couples can have a romantic stroll through Elfreth’s Alley  which was once the residence of 18th-century tradespeople who worked out of their homes. The cobblestone street with lots of cute houses made it an ideal place for photographers.
• If you are planning to visit most attractions of the city in a convenient way, then I highly recommend you to buy Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass with 30+ Attractions for $59.

Tips: Check out the Independence Visitor Center, where you can receive an overview of the city and its attractions. Pick up free tickets to Independence Hall. City Pass can be a good choice to see multiple attractions for an incredibly low price.

Philadelphia Travel Budget:

• Hostel Prices : $15-$20/night (Find Cheap hostels )
• Cheap Hotel and Rental Apartment : $30-$70/night (see on  Booking.com )
• Cheap flights to Philadelphia: from $74 if you fly from New York
• Meals at an inexpensive restaurant per day : $25-30
• Local transport : $30

Use WayAway.io to find the cheapest flights to your desired destination.

8. Albuquerque, New Mexico

Traveling to American cities often comes with a hefty price tag. But if you’re heading to Albuquerque on your next vacation, you are in luck. Many travelers consider it one of the cheapest places to visit in the USA. From various museums to gallery tours, from Native American culture to historic old town- Albuquerque offers plenty of fun and free things to do during your visit.

Cheap Things to do in Albuquerque :

• Exploring the amazing museums can be the best free thing to do in Albuquerque. The Harvey House Museum  is popular to learn about the history of the old railroad. Whereas The Maxwell Museum of Anthropology  will help you to know how the desert landscape has changed the way people do things in the area.
• Visit the historic Old Town of Albuquerque , founded in 1706. It is a perfect place to know this affordable vacation spot in the USA more closely. You will find lots of shops, restaurants and museums lined up here.
• Open Space  is another popular place for adventure enthusiasts where you can do biking or hiking and enjoy Albuquerque’s fantastic trails.
• Travelers can visit the Petroglyph National Monument  which offers a great view of some of the most beautiful scenery in all of New Mexico.

Albuquerque Travel Budget:

• Hostel Prices : $30/night (book Cheap Hostel )
• Cheap Hotel and Rental Apartment : $40-$120/night (see on  Booking.com )
• Airbnb in Albuquerque (for couples and families)
• Meals at an inexpensive restaurant per day : $15-20

9. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is not only a cheap city but also one of the best places for a romantic getaway in the USA . Charleston offers its visitors beautiful waterfront parks, piers and surrounding barrier islands and many museums with free admission.

You can score a hotel room at a very low cost with complimentary breakfast even in the busy summertime if you’re willing to stay outside the city proper. Transportation cost in Charleston is very cheap and available through the city’s CARTA bus system.

Cheap Things to do in Charleston :

• If you are looking for free things to do in Charleston, hit the beach. Enjoy a relaxing vacation on Folly Beach  with a great view of the Atlantic Ocean.
• Visit Charleston Tea Plantation , the country’s only tea plantation which is just 20-mile drive down to Wadmalaw Island.
• Stroll through Charleston City Market , one of the country’s oldest public markets. Explore the market and take some souvenirs for your loved ones.
• Battery park and Point Gardens  are free-admission public garden area that offers fantastic views of Fort Sumter and Charleston Harbor.

Charleston Travel Budget:

• Hostel Prices : $35/night
• Cheap Hotel and Rental Apartment : $55-$120/night (see on  Booking.com )
• Cheap flights to Charleston: from $36 if you fly from New York
• Local transport : $22

10. Raleigh, North Carolina

Planning affordable family vacations in the USA can be tricky, but Raleigh offers local events, activities and entertainment options within a wide range of budgets. Everyone can afford an inexpensive vacation to Raleigh. Raleigh’s affordable hotels, restaurants and low taxes make it one of the cheapest travel destinations in the US.

Cheap Things to do in Raleigh:

• Enjoy a day in Triangle Lakes  which is home to some small lakes and two large lakes: Jordan Lake west of Apex and Falls Lake. This place is equally popular among locals and international travelers.
• The admission-free North Carolina Museum of History  features military history, decorative arts, and sports heroes of North Carolina. The museum has a wide collection of artifacts that consists of over 150000 items.
• Don’t miss Pullen Park , the first public park in North Carolina. This amusement park is the hub of the playground, green fields and lots of rides. It is an ideal place for families. Enjoy a pedal boat ride and a historic carousel that was built in 1911.
• Pay a visit to the North Carolina Museum of Natural Science  which is the Southeast’s largest natural history museum. The museum features all sorts of bugs, spiders, and snakes. There is also a live animal presentation that takes place daily.

Raleigh Travel Budget:

• Cheap Hotel and Rental Apartment : $55-$1130/night (book Cheap Hotels on  Booking.com )
• Cheap flights to Raliegh: from $87 if you fly from New York

11. Phoenix, Arizona

People who are looking for some of the cheapest places to vacation in the USA can visit Phoenix. It is not only the capital of the state but also one of the best places to visit in Arizona . This cultural powerhouse of Arizona is known for its warm, humid and harsh climate of the desert. What also makes Phoenix a great travel destination are the  many free attractions. Just make sure not to travel in the mid-summer when this city is at its hottest.

Cheap Things to do in Phoenix:

• The Desert Botanical Garden  offers one of the world’s largest collections of desert flora. There are several garden trails that visitors can take to explore the unique gardens. If you are a garden lover, check out the best botanical gardens in California .
• Adventure seekers can hike Camelback Mountain , the most popular hiking trail in the Phoenix region. The hike is challenging with excessive heat but worth the effort for some breathtaking views from the top. Check out this guided tour to the top of Camelback Mountain.
• If you are an art lover, a visit to the Phoenix Art Museum  is highly recommended. The museum exhibits some of the most unique pieces of art and fashion. With more than 18,000 works of American, European, Latin American, modern and contemporary art, expect to spend some time exploring this popular museum.
• South Mountain Park  is totally free to visit that offers magnificent views of the city and surrounding landscapes. You can hike or bike early in the morning to beat the heat.

READ NEXT: 10 Best Hikes in Southern California

Phoenix Travel Budget:

• Hostel Prices : $35-50/night (book Cheap Hostel )
• Cheap Hotel and Rental Apartment : $40-$120/night (Book on  Booking.com )
• Cheap flights to Phoenix: from $119 if you fly from New York
• Meals at an inexpensive restaurant per day : $25-30
• Local transport : $24

12. New Orleans, Louisiana

If you’re looking to have a fun time in New Orleans but don’t want to open up your wallet, no worries. There are plenty of ways to explore the city at cheap.

Cheap Things to do in New Orleans :

• Strolling along the Mississippi Riverside  can be one of the best things romantic couples can do here. This impressive landmark of the city is great for a family picnic.
• Exploring French Quarter and Garden District  is one of the best things to do in New Orleans . The aroma of local cuisine and an array of local antique shops, restaurants, and museums made it one of the most photographed places. Garden District is home to some famous persons like Anne Rice and rock star Trent Reznor. Take the popular streetcar ride  from French Quarter to Garden District and they are very affordable.
• To get an up-close view of the Mississippi River, ride the Algiers Ferry . It’s not completely free, just $2 per person which offers great views of the oldest parts of the city and a view of the downtown skyline from the ferry.
• Visit 100-year-old the New Orleans Museum of Art which has a collection of fine paintings, sculptures, photography, glass and historical objects ranging from the pre-Christian era to the modern.

New Orleans Travel Budget:

• Hostel Prices : $10-$15/night (book Cheap Hostel )
• Cheap Hotel and Rental Apartment : $25-$80/night (Book on  Booking.com )
• Cheap flights to New Orleans: from $41 if you fly from New York
• Meals at an inexpensive restaurant per day : $15-25
• Local transport : $20

13. Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City is one of the best fall destinations in the USA and is also known as the world headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. It offers a wide variety of free historic visitor attractions at its Historic Temple Square.

Utah Transit Authority operated a low-cost transport system that will help you to save some bucks while traveling the city. However, the best thing about it as a tourist destination is that many of its museums, gardens, and major attractions are completely free.

Cheap Things to do in Salt Lake City:

• Visit historic Temple Square , the signature tourist attraction of Salt Lake City. The square features the Mormon Temple, the Tabernacle, Assembly Hall, beautiful gardens, the Seagull Monument and other significant structures and artworks.
• Adventure enthusiasts can walk the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. The trail is 160 kilometers long and offers incredible views of the Salt Lake Valley and the City skyline. The trail is more scenic with colorful wildflowers in spring.
• Joseph Smith Memorial Building  is a must-visit place in Salt Lake City. You will be amazed by its gorgeous architecture and opulent decor. The building was at first a hotel that was transformed into a social center venue in 1993.
• Utah State Capitol Building  is an iconic tourist attraction that proudly sits high on Capitol Hill overlooking the city. Visitors can explore this Corinthian-style building and can take a guided tour to learn the significance of seagulls painted on the ceiling and magnificent murals.

Salt Lake City Travel Budget:

• Hostel Prices : $25-$30/night (book Cheap Hostel )
• Cheap Hotel and Rental Apartment : $60-$120/night (find on  Booking.com )
• Cheap flights to Salt Lake City: from $104 if you fly from New York
• Meals at an inexpensive restaurant per day : $20-28

14. Tucson, Arizona

Tucson is located in the north of the US-Mexico border  and is heavily influenced by the desert region in which it stands. It is a great place to visit when traveling on a budget in the USA. The local people are very friendly, the food is amazing and there are lots of cool attractions just waiting to be explored. From hiking a scenic trail to ogling stunning architecture, there is definitely no shortage of amazing things to do in Tucson.

Cheap Things to do in Tucson:

• Hike the Turquoise Trail , the historic walking tour of downtown Tucson. The hike is about 2.5 miles long that includes 23 historical landmarks of the city such as the 1850s Sosa-Carillo-Frémont House, the Pima County Courthouse, and the old Railroad Depot.
• Visit the Tucson Museum of Art  which features over 8,000 works of Western, Latin American and contemporary art. On the first Thursday of each month, admission is free from 5-8 p.m. 
• Explore the  Saguaro National Park trail . Try to avoid hiking here in the summer months. Visitors can see the different types of cactus on the trail.

Tucson Travel Budget:

• Cheap Hotel and Rental Apartment : $50-$110/night (see on  Booking.com )
• Cheap flights to Tucson: from $146 if you fly from New York

15. Big Bear Lake, California

On the east of Los Angeles by the rugged snow-capped peaks of the San Bernardino Mountains sits a charming mountain town called Big Bear Lake. It is the best backpacking destination in the USA to witness panoramic views of skiable terrain. 

The view of San Bernardino National Forest and the mountain is like a scene from a movie. The stunning vistas of the alpine region towering with Ponderosa pines are such a splendor to hike along the forested path and water skiing. 

Cheap Things to do in Big Bear Lake:

• In winter you can enjoy sledding and tubing at Grizzly Ridge Tube Park and Big Bear Snow Play
• It’s a little expensive but for the cool perspective of such beauty with mountains, lakes, and deserts, you can book a helicopter tour or Big Bear Jeep Experience.
• Sit by the sapphire Big Bear Lake water, soaking in the sun. You can also bring your food and have a small picnic with your friends
• Hike along the rocky terrain or ride a horse or mountain bike following the Castle Rock trail. The view from t800 feet above sea level is gorgeous
• In autumn and spring, come to Boulder Bay Park to capture extra color and timeless nature
• If you’re here in the Fall season, please attend Oktoberfest, one of the highest-ranked celebrations in the USA.  

16. Death Valley, California

Just as the name sounds, Death Valley seems to be mysterious. Will I die reaching there? No, my friend , you will fall in love with it. It looks desolate wasteland but in reality, is one of the budget-friendly cities to travel to in the USA.

Driving out to Racetrack Playa on the lowest part of the USA at Badwater Basin outside of Alaska sits Death Valley National Park which also earned its name as Dark Sky Preserve. Remember, though it is unique but is a land of extremes with unbearable heat and biting cold resulting in unending drought. 

Cheap Things to do in Death Valley

• The most fun thing to do in Death Valley is go sandboarding or boogie board
• Drive straight through the valley to Badwater Basin to get the most shocking view called Dante’s view. You can also drive up Aguereberry Point Road.
• Camp in the remote regions of Death Valley – Eureka Sand Dunes and Racetrack Playa. Explore the Backcountry, spend the night and understand its ecosystem
• Hike to visit the Natural Bridge or Historic Mosaic Canyon near Stovepipe Wells and Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes is so thrilling 

17. Red Feather Lakes, Colorado

Have you ever thought of cheap vacation destinations for couples in complete remoteness? 45 miles west of Fort Collins and in the heart of Roosevelt National Forest sits Red Feather Lakes, a charming and rustic mountain town of Colorado .

Its location at the elevation of 8,245 feet offers a dramatic outlook with a golden opportunity to explore. Snowshoeing, sleigh rides, ice skating, and cross-country skiing are popular options to try.

Cheap Things to do in Red Feather Lakes:

• Canoe or kayak or paddle board at Lake Hiawatha. The Hiawatha Park sits on a 241-acre land with mature trees, open space to walk, and a lake to have fun.
• How can you not fish at Red Feather Lakes? They have three public lakes with valid Colorado fishing licenses. 
• Enjoy the rustic town sitting over the horseback riding and enjoying the view. Come to Beaver Meadows Resort Ranch
• Go for a drive taking the west side of the Continental Divide and continuing to Fort Collins
• Invest in your health and book a session or attend a workshop or educational program with Shambhala Mountain Center, a Buddhist retreat center offering meditation and yoga classes.
• You do not need to keep your dog at home, bring him hiking on Lady Moon trailhead. Also, follow the North Lone Pine trail for an easy-breezy walk

18. Fort Collins, Colorado

Along the Cache, Ia Poudre River sits the famous destination Fort Collins which is also known as “FoCo” and is a beautiful college town in Colorado. Not only that, it is Colorado’s Craft Beer Capital. Interestingly, 70% of Colorado’s craft beer is manufactured herein. 

With 2.53 (violent crime rate per 1,000) and ample job opportunities, Fort Collins is one of the cheapest and safest cities to travel to in summer in America for students. Colorado State University and the Rocky Mountains are just miles away!

Cheap Things to do in Fort Collins

• Change your weekend plans and take the free tour at New Belgium Brewing Co. 
• Wander along the Cache La Poudre River watching fishes teeming in the water. This is one of the famous spots among locals.
• Appreciate local art and enjoy the walking tour at Downtown Fort Collins’ First Friday Art Walk. 
• Explore and soak the beauty at Benson Sculpture Garden. The garden has been recognized as – “ one of the 200 most important modern and contemporary art sites around the world”

19. Klamath Falls, Oregon

Klamath Falls is the most inexpensive place to travel in the USA to witness nature without any makeup. It sits on Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway, halfway between Lava Beds National Monument and Crater Lake.

Klamath Falls landscape, lakes, rivers, and forests are so dreamy! Mostly, the place is famous for hiking, fishing, biking, and soaking in peace. Also, the restaurants offer a true taste of Klamath Falls’s southern culture.

Cheap Things to do in Red Klamath Falls:

• How can you miss the beauty of Upper Klamath Lake? Stop by Moore Park which sits on 450-acre land offering a view of lush forest trails, towering pines, flying great bald eagles in the sky and complete peace all around.
• Beside the Klamath Falls sits Link River Trail where you can enjoy the peace to the fullest. You can take the gravel path to reach Upper Klamath Lake. On the way, you will spot hundreds of rare water birds. 
• Klamath Lake sits on 91,000 acres; you can sit by the lake and just enjoy the breathtaking views or arrange a small picnic with your friends
• Spend a night under the sky camping at Lake of the Woods Resort. The experience itself was very rejuvenating. Do not forget to roast marshmallows and enjoy the darkness.
• Come to Link River Falls, the seventh smallest river in the States to enjoy breathtaking views of waterfalls. Plaikini Falls, Duwee Falls, Annie Falls, and Vidae Falls are so pictured worthy

20. Mount Hood National Forest, Oregon

If you’re planning for tenting, camping, or staying in a cabin then there is no other good place than Mount Hood National Forest. This area offers classic Pacific Northwest landscapes filled with adventurous activities.

Remember, to bring your hiking boots , skis, tents , and cameras as Mount Hood stands at the elevation of 11,240 feet above sea level. Timberline Lodge, waterfalls, hot springs, wildlife, and alpine wildlife are the special features of this park. 

Cheap Things to do in Mount Hood National Forest

• Up for a long hike? Wear your hiking boots and climb up the Bald Mountain
• Hang around the stunning Mirror Lake and walk along the Tom, Dick, and Harry Trail to enjoy the still water
• Did you click a photo of yourself against the backdrop of Tamanawas Falls?
• Sense adventure along the rocky scrambles and the bridges getting effortless good shots for Instagram at Umbrella and Sahalie Falls.

How to Travel Cheap in the USA?

In the world of “dollars”, “cheap” really exist? 15 years old me always wondered. 

Crossing coast to coast to explore America’s states without spending an arm and a leg is a debatable topic. However, Nomadic Matt, my inspirational character, proved it to be true. 

Backpackers and Budget travelers, welcome to blog on the cheapest places to visit in the USA, informing you how to travel on a budget and experience more. 

Moreover, I promise there will be no sacrifices made in experiencing – world-class music, and dances, witnessing stunning gorgeous landscapes, and incredible culture, making friends, and tasting delicious cuisine.

So, here are the ways to travel cheaply without spending millions of dollars on exploring and traveling. I will break your expenses into fixed and variable expenditures.

Let’s look forward to fixed expenditure –

Accommodation :  

Hostels or dorm rooms are your saviors. Also, you can try Couchsurfing. A dorm room with 4-6 beds usually costs between $35-50 USD per night depending on the city and time of your travel. Check out these useful tips about how to book cheap hotels .

On the other hand, Couchsurfing allows you to reside freely in exchange for any service requested by the homeowners. However, always remember to check reviews and stats before booking any one of them. 

Thankfully, the USA has diverse options in terms of food. Starting from seafood, and BBQ to healthy salad and organic smoothies, there is no singular food culture. Every place has different types of food options at varied rates.

A sandwich or fast food combo meal costs around $10 -$15 if you get it from roadside stalls. The same food is available at $30-$34 at mid-range casual restaurants. On the other hand, if you want to save money on food while traveling , you can cook your food at hostels free of cost.

Public transport

Taking a bus for a cross-country trip is not weird, the best way to save “dollars”. Traveling in buses or trains, or metros is the best way to meet new people, watch and witness amazing sights while keeping the budget fixed. 

However, the only disadvantage you might face while traveling on public transport is long journeys and no WiFi to work along the way. Though you cannot change the first part but upgrade your travel router to work along the way.

Now let’s know your variable expenditure – 

Expenditures, like buying gifts or eating food at a fancy restaurant or participating in paid fest and more, are called variable expenses. However, you cannot completely ignore them but surely reduce their frequencies to save ‘dollars’. 

To reduce expenses on variable expenditures you can follow these points –

• Prepare a budget
• Be friendly and try to include other fellow travelers in your plan too
• Research the destination
• Book early or too late 
• Take care of yourself – believe your instinct, and never doubt it
• Be tech-savvy, try to plan your destinations without seeking help every time from tourist companies
• Check out these tips for booking cheap flights from anywhere . Always before booking your flight, I would recommend you to read the blog on the most affordable places to fly in the US.

In the end, there are many ways to travel cheaply as well as many fun things to do in the USA. However, the USA might not be a cheap travel destination, but by following travel hacks and meeting the right people, you can make that happen. 

The best way to travel to dream destinations at cheap rates in the USA is to be hopeful to experience dreamy things in a budget-friendly manner. If you’re not from America, I would recommend you save this blog for a better source of information. 

Read More: 12 Best Zoos In The USA To Explore For Wildlife Enthusiasts

FAQ – Cheapest Vacations in the US

1. where can i travel with a $1000 budget.

A : With $1000 you can come to Joshua Tree National Park in California. The park sits between the Colorado Desert and the Mojave Desert. Here you can see how arid low desert and high desert vegetation meet to create an incredible natural desert treasure. Moreover, it is unique to find a desert ecosystem.  

2. What is the best month to travel cheaply in the US?

A: The best month to travel cheaply in the USA is from May to early June and late August. Always try to visit in the off-season when the price of hotels and restaurants reduces their rates. I would recommend traveling in January and September. 

3. Which state is very cheap to travel to?

A : Texas is affordable for travelers as there are plenty of hostels, roadside food hauls, and good-running public transport facilities. Strolling down the Paseo del Rio is so mesmerizing. Also, buses in Texas are inexpensive and on time.

4. What is the cheapest beach vacation in the United States?

A : The cheapest beach vacation in the United States is in California. You should come to Carlsbad to enjoy easy-going charm and miles of unexplored coastline. The rocky cliffs and rugged surroundings with soft sand along the beach are so beautiful. Though the average cost of living here is $2,836 in terms of beauty and amenities it is nothing. 

• 10 Cheapest Places to Visit in California
• Best Campsites in Southern California
• 10 Cheapest Places to Live in California

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27 Comments

I love San Antonio, lived there for 7 years! A must-visit for sure

Thank you Mariah for your kind comment.

I never thought it this affordable but the itineraries aren’t cheap at all……..best catalog I’ve seen so far………

You are right Jefferson. If one wants to visit all, it might be expensive, but certainly there are some free things and comparatively cheaper places where budget travelers can travel.

Wow…. Thanks for listing these down. Great suggestions!!

This is a fantastic list. It’s amazing the things you can find to do with a little creativity.

Thank you for this detailed list of inexpensive places to travel and things to do. It’s nice to know that AZ has a number of free parks.? This is a great guide for people to use to plan a trip when things calm down.

Love this list! I love traveling and even better if it can be done cheaply.

Utah is definitely a place for me, great scenery and is one of the best fall destinations in the USA.

This is a great list of places. I will bookmark this post so I can reference it when I plan to visit US.

Philly is my recommendation because I love Philly food. I love Philly cheesesteaks, pretzels, and Italian water ice. (Sorry, my dad is from there so I often traveled there).

I’ve been to Raleigh, Daytona, and New Orleans. I think next would be San Antonio Texas, judging from this post!

Sure… Why not..!! Happy Traveling… 🙂

Thank you for this super comprehensive post! I love how it includes budget suggestions. I’m definitely bookmarking this for the future!

Great post! We’ve been to about 2/3 of these I think, and Charleston was my favorite place by far! Going to add a few of these other cities to our travel list, thank you! 🙂

Great suggestions! I am adding Arizona and Lousiana to my list!

I have visited half of the cities on this list and completely agree—they are cheap and fun to visit! I will have to make it my mission to add the additional cities to my list. Especially Salt Lake City, I have always wanted to go.

Absolutely stunning post! Thank you for a detailed impressive guide on a cheap vacation spot in the US!

I’ve been to Philly, Charleston and NC. These places are very much affordable and great things to do. Be sure to go to the Elfreth alley in Philly at night. It’s awesome for photographs.

thank you for sharing useful info about cheap places to visit in USA

A most helpful article about Budget-Friendly Travel in the USA.

USA is the greatest nation in the world. There are such a number of delightful spots in US that are well known among the world. This list contains the top 10 wonderful traveling spots.

I really enjoyed your blog post. Your suggestions are practical and affordable, making it easier for people to explore different parts of the country without breaking the bank. Thanks for sharing!

Incredible Love this list! I love traveling and even better if it can be done cheaply.

Looks like a fun place to visit and stay.

This is truly amazing!

Nice list Trijit, uncover also the magic of New Hampshire’s fall palette and explore its myriad attractions, creating a curated list of the best November travel spots. New Hampshire a must-visit destination this autumn.

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The 12 cheapest places to travel in the USA right now

If you're looking to travel through North America on a budget, here are some of the cheapest places to travel in the USA and get the best of this thrilling country!

Gabrielle Budget Travel With Gabby

Oct 05, 2023

The USA is not known for being a cheap country. Compared to places in Central America, Eastern Europe, or Southeast Asia, the USA is pricey for locals and for tourists.

However, there are still ways to enjoy the USA on a budget! This list includes some cheap places to travel and see the best of its culture, history and entertainment.

You might also want to read:   Cheapest places to fly from USA in 2022  and The cheapest and safest places to live in the USA .

Cheapest places to travel in US

Looking for a fun and affordable getaway? I'll show you below some of the cheapest places to travel in the USA , whether you are traveling for tourism or work exchange .  

Doing a work exchange with Worldpackers will further cut down your living costs, and you’ll get to live among locals and other travelers, since you'd be trading a skill for accommodation in a local business, organization, or family.

Throughout the text, I’ll include Worldpackers positions that anyone can apply for. Enjoy it!

1. Travel to New Orleans, Louisiana

This vibrant, exciting city is one of the best places to travel in the USA . Luckily for tourists, it is also cheap! There are lots of fun hostels, and you can even do a work exchange in one to save money on accommodation. 

If you love music, art, and partying, New Orleans is heaven. Set on the Mississippi River, this city is packed with gorgeous architecture, antique shops, music venues, nightclubs, and cheap eateries serving spicy multicultural cuisine. 

Many venues don’t have cover charges, and there is often street music and public art displayed for free. Be sure to check out Jackson Square and the French Quarter, as both are hubs for affordable entertainment. 

2. Meet Daytona Beach, Florida

Popular among families and college students in Florida , Daytona Beach also has a lot to offer for budget travelers in the USA. 

The main attraction here is the beach, of course, which is free. You can spend hours swimming in the ocean, playing sports in the sand, and soaking in that Florida sunshine without spending any money .

Aside from the ocean, Daytona Beach also has lots of cheap international food, free museums , and affordable entertainment venues. There are also free outdoor concerts in the summer. 

So Daytona Beach, Florida is one of the best cheap places to travel in the USA . Check out volunteer opportunities in Florida to save even more!

3. Save some money in Austin, Texas

As the capital city of Texas, Austin has so many fun, budget-friendly things to do. 

You can go walking, running, cycling, hiking, boating, kayaking, or have a picnic with friends in one of Austin’s many national parks and gardens. The best ones include Zilker Park, McKinney Falls State Park, Lady Bird Lake, Barton Creek Greenbelt, Barton Springs, Mount Bonnell, and more. All of these areas of natural beauty can be explored for free!

Austin also has scenic drives, museums, and cheap places to eat and watch live music. If you’re a fan of country or blues, Austin is a great place to catch a concert. 

You can even find hostels in Austin for 30 USD per night, which is cheap for the USA. Another good idea is doing a volunteer work in Dallas , which is around 3 hours away from Austin.

4. Cheap things to do in Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City is an amazing place to visit on the western side of the USA. It’s a convenient location for going hiking, camping, skiing, or snowboarding in the nearby mountains, but there are plenty of cool attractions within the city itself.

Cheap car rentals, hotels and volunteer positions make it affordable to explore Salt Lake City. You can also tour museums, go sightseeing, and relax in the parks and gardens for free. Temple Square, Utah State Capitol Building, Mormon Temple, Liberty Park, and Red Butte Garden are highlights of the city that don’t cost a thing. 

5. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on a budget

The busy and historic city of Philadelphia is one of the cheapest places to travel in the USA. It is a cheaper alternative to nearby New York City, and affordable daily transport passes make it easy to explore the city without spending much money. 

Catch a sports game, tour a brewery, visit some museums, and indulge in a famous Philly Cheesesteak. Also be sure to see the most famous historic sights, like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776.

Check out Worldpackers open positions in Philly  to develop a skill while traveling! And more than 22 ideas to travel alone in the US . 

6. Save money in Boston, Massachusetts

Many might be surprised to see Boston on a list of the cheapest places to travel in the USA. Massachusetts, and all of New England , are some of the most expensive places to live in the country. However, travelers can visit Boston for surprisingly cheap . 

Hotels are a bit pricey, but the capital city of Massachusetts is packed with history and culture that is often free.

Boston’s most famous attraction is the Freedom Trail. This walking route takes you past all the important historic sights that played a role in the country’s battle for independence in the 18th century. 

Other free attractions in Boston include Boston Common, Boston Harbor, Harvard Campus, and Boston Public Library. 

For a cheap lunch, visit the iconic Faneuil Hall or Quincy Market. 

7. Get affordable accomodation in Charleston, South Carolina

If there was ever a city to embody the notion of “Southern Charm”, Charleston might be it. 

This oceanfront city has colorful and elegant architecture, lush green parks and gardens, and lots of hearty food and friendly locals. There are also multiple lighthouses and historic forts, so Charleston has no shortage of things to see.

You can eat fresh seafood by the ocean, stroll along the beachfront piers, and visit the Historic Charleston City Market . 

Other famous sights to see in this beautiful city in southern California include the Battery Promenade and the Ravenel Bridge. Most attractions are affordable or free, so Charleston can easily be enjoyed on a budget.

To have an even deeper cultural experience in Charleston, you can volunteer with Worldpackers. There is one beautiful historic hostel in downtown Charleston that is accepting volunteers. This work exchange has multiple 5-star reviews from past travelers as well! 

8. Travel to Savannah, Georgia

Savannah may be one of the most beautiful and cheapest   places to travel in the USA . It is certainly a highlight of visiting Georgia, and it is actually the oldest city in the state. This coastal city is set on the Savannah River and is bursting with scenic spots.

Full of charming gardens, green parks, magnificent homes, and historic sights, Savannah is a lovely place to spend a weekend. The cheap hotels make it an affordable destination as well. 

Some of the most popular spots in Savannah for free sightseeing include the magical Forsyth Park, the mysterious Wormsloe Historic Site, and the lively and colorful River Street

9. Travel around Albuquerque, New Mexico

Also one of the cheapest places to live in the USA, Albuquerque is a fun place to explore while traveling on a budget . 

The city is known for its multitude of interesting museums, many of which are free. The National Hispanic Cultural Center hosts lots of free events and there are often free festivals in the summer.

The historic Old Town of Albuquerque is a must-see as well. Here you can find lots of cheap food with Mexican influences, and you can admire the rustic old buildings.

Another free highlight of the city is the Petroglyph National Monument. This open-air museum has thousands of ancient art on display. For those who love natural history, Latin American culture, and food, and traveling on a budget, Albuquerque is pretty much the perfect destination.

Read more articles about travel on a budget:   The 17 cheapest islands to visit worldwide plus tips to save money

10. Washington DC on a budget 

Like Boston, Washington DC is a famously expensive city that you probably wouldn’t expect to see on a list of the cheapest USA destinations. However, I included it because you can actually explore this city on a budget very easily. 

Hotels may be more on the expensive side, but you can save money by volunteering with Worldpackers . For example, this Washington DC hostel allows you to work in exchange for accommodation, and take part in free events and pub crawls throughout the city. So you can have an epic time in Washington DC without spending much money at all. 

Our nation’s capital is home to so many world-famous sights that you can see for free. From the White House and the Washington Monument to the US Capitol Building and the National Mall, there are plenty of iconic landmarks. 

But the best thing to do in Washington DC is to visit the 19 Smithsonian Museums . They are absolutely mind-blowing and you can learn so much. And, the museums are all free! 

11. Visit Raleigh, North Carolina

The capital of North Carolina is not only fun for tourists, it’s actually one of the cheapest places to live in the USA . With low taxes, affordable food, rent, and transport, cheap hotels and volunteer programs , this is the perfect city for budget travelers and those looking to move somewhere cheaper in America.

Highlights of Raleigh include the Neuse River Trail which winds peacefully through the wilderness, Pullen Park which has one of the country’s oldest amusement parks, and the art and science museums in the city center. 

12. Do a volunteer work in Denver, Colorado

Denver is one of the most popular places to travel in the USA , especially among young people and wilderness enthusiasts. 

There are countless places to hike and explore nature, and there is also lots of entertainment and nightlife in Denver . There are quite a few volunteer opportunities in Denver , particularly in hostels. 

Some of the best free attractions in Denver and Colorado in general include the hiking trails of the Rocky Mountains, the local Botanic Gardens and museums, and the famous Red Rock Amphitheatre.

Whether you’re visiting for fun or for hiking, Denver may be one of the coolest cheap vacations in the USA . 

Keep reading about budget travel tips with Worldpackers — find in this article the secret to travel the world for free  that no one tells you!

Also, feel free to explore our search page , where you can choose from many volunteer positions around all the world.

Join the community!

Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

Gabrielle Boucher

Budget Travel With Gabby

Hello! I am a 25 year old from the USA with a knack for traveling on a budget. I fell in love with traveling while studying in Europe, and that love grew even more when I started volunteering abroad in South America. Since then, I've worked odd jobs and volunteered all over the globe while cultivating passions for hiking, wildlife photography, food, wine, animals, permaculture, and more!

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Nov 02, 2021

Great! You rock, Gabby

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The ultimate Worldpackers USA travel guide

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Confirm your trip to enjoy all of the safety of Worldpackers.

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Cheap Places to Travel in the USA: 50 Incredible Destinations on a Budget

The USA is a huge country with so much to see and do. It’s impossible to see everything in one trip, but that’s part of the fun – there’s always something new to explore. From the towering skyscrapers of New York City to the natural wonders of Yellowstone National Park , the USA has something for everyone.

Despite its reputation as being expensive, that are many cheap places to travel to in the USA . And some of the most beautiful places in the world!

One of the best things about traveling around the USA is that there is such a variety of landscapes and experiences to be had. 

In one day you could be hiking through stunning mountains. The next, driving along an iconic highway like and see all the attractions of Route 66 , before ending up at a beach on the west coast. There really is no other country like it.

The United States of America is a massive country with plenty to see and do. Although airfare and hotels can be expensive, there are many ways to travel on a budget. Here are fifteen of the cheapest destinations in the U.S.

Take a tour of the Heidelberg Project

Take a walking tour of downtown cleveland, stroll through phipps conservatory and botanical gardens.

• Attend a show at Shea's Performing Arts Center

Manchester, New Hampshire

Christiansted national historic site, the national mall, things to do in san francisco, visit seaport village, relax on the beach.

• HIKE THROUGH OLD-GROWTH FORESTS 

Best 30 Cheap Places to Travel in USA

Detroit, Michigan

Despite its reputation, Detroit is actually a great city to visit on a budget. You can find cheap flights and affordable accommodation. 

And there are plenty of free attractions to keep you entertained. Including the Heidelberg Project, the Ambassador Bridge, and Belle Isle Park.

Detroit is a great city to explore. It’s one of our favorite cities to travel to because there are tons of unique things to do that won’t cost you a fortune. 

Yes, Detroit is not as cheap as some other places in the Midwest. But there are still plenty of fun things to do that won’t break the bank.

Here are three more cheap things to do in Detroit:

Take a walk or bike ride through Belle Isle Park

This 982-acre island park is situated in the Detroit River. And is a great place to get some fresh air and take in the sights of the city. 

There is also a nature center, an aquarium, and plenty of picnic areas to enjoy. Admission to the park is free, although there is a small fee for parking.

Check out one of Detroit’s many museums

The city is home to several great museums, including the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Henry Ford Museum, and the Michigan Science Center. There are also beautiful places to visit like Torch Lake Michigan .. 

Many of these museums offer free or discounted admission on certain days or for certain groups, so be sure to check their websites before you go.

Visit Eastern Market on Saturdays (or any day from May-December)

This historic public market has been serving Detroiters since 1891 and is now open six days a week (closed Sundays and Mondays). On Saturdays, it’s especially lively as farmers from all over Michigan come to sell their produce, flowers, baked goods, and other items.

You can also find artisans selling jewelry, pottery, and other handmade goods. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s fun to wander around and take in all the sights and smells of this vibrant market.

Stroll through the Downtown Riverfront

The Detroit RiverWalk is a five-and-a-half-mile long path along the Detroit River that offers stunning views of the city skyline. 

It’s a great place to go for a walk, jog, or bike ride, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes along the way if you need to take a break. Best of all, it’s completely free to enjoy!

Spend an afternoon at Belle Isle Conservatory

This beautiful glass conservatory was built in 1904 and is one of the oldest surviving public conservatories in the country. 

It’s home to more than 3,000 plants from all over the world, including palms, ferns, cacti, and flowering plants. Admission is only $3 for adults (free for children under 12) making it a very affordable activity.

The Heidelberg Project is an open-air art installation located on Heidelberg Street on Detroit’s east side. 

It began in 1986 as an effort to transform blighted properties into works of art, and today it includes several brightly-painted houses as well as sculptures made from found objects. 

Guided tours are available for $10 per person ($5 for seniors/students), but you can also explore on your own for free anytime during daylight hours.

Cleveland, Ohio

Another city that often gets a bad rap, Cleveland is actually a great place for budget travelers. 

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is a must-visit for music fans, and other popular attractions include the Cleveland Museum of Art and the West Side Market.

Cleveland, Ohio is a fantastic place to visit and it’s a lot cheaper than you might think.

Whether it’s seeing the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, check out the Great Lake Science Center, or just fancying a Smith’s Mini Donut – there are tons of things to do in Cleveland that won’t break the bank.

But that is not all! Here are some more cheap places to travel to in Cleveland. If you travel right, Cleveland can seem like one of the cheapest places to travel. 

Catch a game at the Progressive Field

Home of the city’s Major League Baseball team, the Cleveland Indians. Tickets start at just $10, making it an affordable option for a fun night out.

Visit the West Side Market

The West Side Market is one of the oldest and largest public markets in the country. This historic market offers a wide variety of food vendors and is a great place to find unique gifts or souvenirs.

Head to Edgewater Park

Sitting on Lake Erie for a day of picnicking, swimming, and simply taking in the beautiful views.

Take a ride on the Goodtime III

Cleveland’s iconic riverboat cruise. The one-hour tour gives you a great overview of the city and its waterfront.

Spend an afternoon at the Cleveland Botanical Garden

At the Cleveland Botanical Garden, where you can explore 10 different gardens, including a Japanese garden with koi ponds and a rose garden with over 100 varieties of roses.

Learn about the city’s history at the Cleveland Museum of History

The Cleveland Museum of History, which features exhibits on everything from the city’s founding to the Civil War to life in Cleveland, is worth visiting !

Hop on a walking tour of Downtown Cleveland. All of which are led by a knowledgeable guide who will point out architectural landmarks and historical sites.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh is another Midwestern city that offers plenty of bang for your buck. Highlights include the Andy Warhol Museum, Phipps Conservatory, Botanical Gardens, and Station Square.

There are plenty of amazing things to see and do in Pittsburgh, but not every tourist has a budget that allows for swanky hotels and expensive dinners. 

The city of bridges and neighborhoods will surprise you with its charm, so you don’t ever have to feel like it’s all just a cliche.

Here are some cheap things to do in Pittsburgh:

Eat Street Food

If you’re looking for a delicious, authentic meal at a great price, you can’t beat the delicious, unpretentious offerings of Eat Street. Located near Heinz Field, there are tons of food trucks and carts to choose from, giving you an extremely diverse range of options. The same can be said for the beer vendors parked nearby. 

If you’re looking for something fun and just a little adventurous , Eat Street is the place for you. Eating street food helps turn any city into a cheap place to travel in USA . 

Explore The Strip District

The Strip District is packed with local favorites. There is a lot to see and do here, and it is easy to skate by on a budget.

Take A Hike Through Frick Park

Frick Park is one of the largest and most popular parks in Pittsburgh, and for good reason. The 644-acre park has plenty of trails to explore, making it a great destination for a day hike. 

You’ll find yourself among towering trees, babbling brooks, and lush greenery. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a few hours, Frick Park is the perfect place to do it.

Visit The Andy Warhol Museum

One of Pittsburgh’s most iconic attractions is the Andy Warhol Museum. The museum houses the largest collection of Warhol’s art in the world, and it’s a must-see for any art lover. Best of all, admission is only $20 for adults.

Watch A Game at PNC Park

Pittsburgh is a city with a deep love for sports, and that love is on display at PNC Park. Home to the Pittsburgh Pirates, this beautiful stadium offers views of both the downtown skyline and the Allegheny River. Tickets start at just $9, making it an affordable option for a night out.

Located in Oakland, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens are one of Pittsburgh’s hidden gems. The 14-acre facility features stunning gardens, a tropical forest conservatory, and even an orchid room. Admission is only $15 for adults, making it an affordable way to spend an afternoon exploring nature’s beauty.

Buffalo, New York

Buffalo may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of travel destinations in the U.S., but it definitely deserves a spot on this list! There are plenty of cheap flights available to Buffalo Niagara International Airport, making it an easy (and affordable) place to get away for a weekend or longer. Once you’re here, be sure to check out Niagara Falls (just minutes from downtown), as well as Canalside Buffalo and Sahlen’s Field if you’re looking for some fun activities that won’t break the bank

Buffalo is beginning to take off as a travel destination in its own right. New York State’s second-largest city is located on the shores of Lake Erie and features a growing art scene, myriad dining options, and some fantastic architecture.

Here are some cheap things to do in Buffalo, New York :

Visit the Albright-Knox Art Gallery

This world-renowned art museum is one of the best things to do in Buffalo and it’s completely free to enter! With a constantly rotating selection of exhibitions, there’s always something new to see at the Albright-Knox.

Delaware Park

Take a walk or bike ride through Delaware Park: This beautiful green space is perfect for a leisurely stroll or even a pick-up game of Ultimate Frisbee. 

And if you’re feeling ambitious, you can even cycle all the way around Hoyt Lake. Just be sure to take in the stunning views of Buffalo’s skyline as you go.

Explore Canalside

Canalside is quickly becoming one of Buffalo’s most popular attractions and for good reason! This vibrant waterfront district offers something for everyone, from shopping and dining to live music and outdoor activities. 

Best of all, many of the attractions here are completely free (or very low cost).

Explore the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens

The Botanical Gardens are a great way to spend an afternoon if you’re looking for something peaceful and beautiful. With over 20 acres of gardens to explore, you could easily spend hours here meandering through the different sections. And admission is only $11 for adults!

Take a tour of the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Darwin D. Martin House

This iconic piece of architecture is one of Buffalo’s most treasured landmarks. Tours start at just $15 and they offer a fascinating look into both the history of the house and the life of its famous designer.

Attend a show at Shea’s Performing Arts Center

Shea’s is one of Buffalo’s premier performance venues and it frequently plays host to Broadway touring productions. Tickets can be expensive, but there are often discounts available if you know where to look. 

New England

New England offers a plethora of things to do, and we’ve made it easy for you to see places that match your travel needs. If you’re planning a weekend trip to Boston or a week-long college tour of New Haven, there are plenty of great hotels, hostels, and Airbnb options at all different price points to suit travelers of all budgets.

Here are some of the cheapest places to visit in New England

Providence, Rhode Island

If you’re looking for a cheap place to visit in New England, Providence is a great option. The capital of Rhode Island is full of history and culture, it is just one of the fun facts about Rhode Island and there are plenty of great hotels and Airbnb options at all different price points. You can also find some great deals on food and drink, so it’s a perfect place to visit on a budget. In fact, if you know where to go. And go at the right time there are many cheap places to travel in the USA – in and around New England.

Hartford, Connecticut

Hartford is another great option for travelers on a budget. The capital of Connecticut is full of historical landmarks and museums, and there are plenty of cheap hotels and Airbnb options to choose from. 

You can also find some great deals on food and drink in Hartford, so it’s a perfect place if you’re looking to save money on your trip and a cheap place to travel in the USA.

Portland, Maine

Portland is a beautiful city located in Maine that offers visitors a chance to explore the outdoors without spending too much money. 

There are plenty of cheap hotels and Airbnb options available, as well as many affordable restaurants that serve up fresh seafood. If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of big cities like Bean Town one of the best nicknames for Boston  or New York , Portland is the perfect place for you.

Manchester is a great city for budget travelers. There are plenty of cheap hotels and Airbnb options to choose from, as well as a variety of affordable restaurants. The city is also located close to many popular attractions in the area, such as the White Mountains and Lake Winnipesaukee. If you’re looking to save money on your trip, Manchester is a great place to visit.

Puerto Rico

Travel in Puerto Rico does not have to be expensive – if you know where to go! In Puerto Rico , there is something for everyone and luckily, it’s a great place to visit on a budget. And what’s even better is that if you are from the US then you don’t need a passport for Puerto Rico .

Here are some of the cheapest places to travel in Puerto Rico

Vieques is an island off the coast of Puerto Rico that is known for its pristine beaches, Bioluminescent Bay, and wild horses. Although it is a bit more expensive to get to Vieques (you have to take a ferry or small plane from the mainland), it is worth it once you are there. Once on the island, there are plenty of cheap places to stay, eat, and drink. You can also find affordable activities like kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and snorkeling.

San Juan is the capital of Puerto Rico and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean. Although it can be pricey in some areas (especially Old San Juan), there are still plenty of ways to enjoy San Juan on a budget. One great way to save money is by staying in one of the many hostels in the city.

There are also numerous cheap eats options available, particularly if you stick to local eateries rather than tourist traps. If you want to save even more money, consider visiting during the shoulder season when hotel prices tend to be lower.

Rincon is a small town located on the western tip of Puerto Rico . Just like Northshore Hawaii it’s known for its surfing beaches, laid-back vibe, and affordable accommodations. Rincon is a great place to stay if you’re looking for somewhere quiet and relaxing – but that doesn’t mean there isn’t anything to do!

In addition to spending time on the beach, you can go hiking, horseback riding, or exploring one of Rincon’s many waterfalls.

Culebra is a small island off the east coast of Puerto Rico that is known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and abundance of marine life. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Puerto Rico and is a great place to visit if you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

Although it can be pricey to get to Culebra (you have to take a ferry from the mainland), it is worth it once you are there. Once on the island, there are plenty of cheap places to stay, eat, and drink. You can also find affordable activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.

Aguadilla is a city located on the northwestern tip of Puerto Rico . It’s known for its beautiful beaches, surfing conditions, and laid-back vibe. 

Aguadilla is a great place to stay if you’re looking for somewhere quiet and relaxing – but that doesn’t mean there isn’t anything to do! In addition to spending time on the beach, you can go hiking, horseback riding, or exploring one of Aguadilla’s many waterfalls

Isabela is a city located on the northwestern coast of Puerto Rico. It’s known for its surfing beaches, stunning sunsets, and abundance of outdoor activities. 

Isabela is a great place to stay if you’re looking for somewhere quiet and relaxing – but that doesn’t mean there isn’t anything to do! In addition to spending time on the beach, you can go hiking and horseback riding.

Virgin Islands

There are a lot of cheap places to travel in the USA. And some of them are in on the US Virgin Islands. And evne though you wouldn’t think it amazingly cheap places to visit in the US Virgin Islands that can compete with many popular destinations in the US.

Here are some great cheap places to travel in the Virgin Islands

One way to travel cheaply in St. Thomas is to take advantage of the many free activities that the island has to offer. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and historical sites without spending a dime. 

Additionally, many hotels and resorts offer complementary activities such as yoga classes, snorkeling excursions, and movie nights. By taking advantage of these free offerings, travelers can save a significant amount of money on their vacation.

Another way to save money while vacationing in St. Thomas is to eat like a local. There are numerous restaurants and food carts throughout the island that serve delicious Caribbean cuisine at reasonable prices. 

For those looking for an even cheaper option, grocery stores sell everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to prepared meals that make it easy to cook at home. By avoiding tourist traps and eating like a local, travelers can save a considerable amount of money on their trip.

Finally, one of the best ways to save money when traveling to St. Thomas is by utilizing public transportation options instead of renting a car or taking taxis everywhere. 

The island’s bus system covers most major attractions and destinations, making it easy to get around without spending a lot of money. 

Additionally, many hotels offer complimentary shuttle services that can help visitors get around without having to spend extra money on transportation costs

Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge

Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to visit for those who love nature and want to experience some of the best that the Virgin Islands have to offer. 

This refuge is home to a variety of wildlife, including turtles, seabirds, and iguanas. visitors can take part in a number of activities, including hiking, camping, and kayaking.

Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge

Another great cheap place to travel in the Virgin Islands is Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge is known for its beaches and turquoise waters. 

Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and picnicking. There are also several hiking trails available for those who want to explore the area.

A third cheap place to travel destination in the Virgin Islands is Christiansted National Historic Site. This site is home to a number of well-preserved 18th-century buildings, including Fort Christiansvaern, the Danish West India Company Warehouse, and the Scale House. Visitors can also explore the streets of Christiansted and learn about the history of the area. 

So, whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy some time in nature or experience some of the best that the Virgin Islands has to offer, these three cheap places to travel are definitely worth checking out.

Washington DC

Washington DC is a city that’s crawling with history. Being the capital of the free world, it’s likely you’ll also be running into some interesting politics along the way. If you’re visiting the capital on a budget, we’ve got you covered. 

Because there is a lot to do and see that won’t break the bank. If you’re looking for a more flexible way to see the city, go for a stroll on the Ronald Reagan Trail situated near the Potomac River waterfront. After getting your fill of history and sight-seeing, head on over to Eastern Market to shop for your favorite local goods.

Here are some of the cheapest places to travel in Washington DC

The Ronald Reagan Trail

This scenic trail offers a great view of the Potomac River waterfront and is situated near many of the city’s historical landmarks. It’s a great place to take a stroll and get some fresh air, especially if you’re visiting during the warmer months.

Eastern Market

This local market is a great place to find affordable food and drink options, as well as shop for unique goods from local vendors. It’s the perfect place to go if you’re looking for some souvenirs to bring back home with you.

One of the most popular tourist destinations in Washington DC, the National Mall is home to many famous monuments and memorials that can be visited for free. If you’re interested in learning more about American history, this is definitely the place to go.

New Orleans

If you’re in New Orleans on a budget, there are so many ways to save. Here are some tips to save money in New Orleans.

When it comes to transportation, one of the best ways to save money is by walking. New Orleans is a very walkable city and you can access most attractions on foot. If you’re staying in the French Quarter , you can easily walk to the Mississippi River, Jackson Square, and Bourbon Street. If you need to go further than that, there are always streetcars and buses available. Just be sure to have exact change as they do not accept credit cards.

If you’re looking for free entertainment, there are many options available as well. One great option is to take a stroll through one of New Orleans’ cemeteries. Many people think this sounds morbid, but it’s actually really interesting! Another great option for free entertainment is live music. There are often bands playing on the street or in various squares throughout the city. 

Finally, if you want to experience some of the local culture, head over to Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar on Bourbon Street – it’s one of the oldest bars in America and has been frequented by pirates!

When it comes to food, there are also many ways to save money. One option is to buy groceries and cook your own meals rather than eat out all the time. Another great way to save money on food is by taking advantage of happy hours and specials at restaurants. 

For example, almost every bar in the French Quarter has a happy hour where you can get discounted drinks and sometimes discounted appetizers as well.

San Antonio

When it comes to finding affordable things to do in San Antonio, there is no shortage of options. The city is home to a number of historic sites, museums, and other attractions that can be enjoyed without breaking the bank. For those looking to experience some of the best that San Antonio has to offer without spending a lot of money, here are some great options.

The Alamo is one of the most popular tourist destinations in San Antonio, and for good reason. This historic site was the location of a pivotal battle in the Texas Revolution, and today it stands as a powerful symbol of Texan pride. Admission to the Alamo is free, making it an ideal option for budget-minded travelers.

San Antonio is also home to a number of excellent museums, many of which offer free or discounted admission on certain days or for specific groups (For adults there are the best breweries in San Antonio to check out). The Witte Museum and McNay Art Museum are two standout options that should not be missed. 

History buffs will also enjoy exploring the many historic missions located throughout the city, including Mission Concepcion and Mission San Jose.

Finally, no visit to San Antonio would be complete without paying a visit to one of its famous river walk restaurants or cafes. This scenic pedestrian pathway runs along the banks of the San Antonio River and is lined with outdoor dining options ranging from casual cafes to upscale bistros.

Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal with views, the river walk has something for everyone – and best of all, it’s completely free!

San Fransico

Travel like a local in San Francisco without breaking the bank. Here are a few of our favorite things to do on the cheap in San Francisco.

San Francisco is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, and for good reason. The city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. And while

San Francisco can be expensive to visit, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the city on a budget. Here are just a few of the many cheap things to do in San Francisco.

Visit a museum. 

The de Young is a stellar museum just south of Golden Gate Park with rotating exhibitions, often with an emphasis on artists native to the Bay Area. Just outside the museum grounds is a large sculpture garden with an amazing view of downtown. Unless it’s one of the special exhibits, you don’t need to pay admission to wander around the sculpture garden. But if you want to go inside the museum, which has some amazing Native American artwork from the Northwest Coast and other funky pieces from around the world, tickets range from $10-$20 for adults and $6-$10 for kids ages 6-17 (kids under 6 are free). Kids under 18 are also free when they’re with an adult.

One of the best ways to explore San Francisco is on foot. The city is filled with hills, so you’ll get a great workout as you walk from one attraction to another. 

Start your journey at Fisherman’s Wharf and make your way through Chinatown and North Beach before ending up at Ghirardelli Square for some delicious ice cream. If you’re feeling even more adventurous, continue on to Golden Gate Park where you can explore museums, gardens, and windmills.

Another great way to experience San Francisco is by taking a ride on one of its famous cable cars. This mode of transportation has been around since 1873 and is still used by locals today. 

For just $7 per person, you can purchase an all-day pass that allows you unlimited rides on all cable car lines. Be sure to hop off at Union Square for some shopping or Lombard Street for a photo op (just beware of the crowds).

Finally, no trip to San Francisco would be complete without sampling some of its world-famous food. 

From fresh seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf to crispy sourdough bread from Boudin Bakery, there are endless culinary delights waiting to be discovered in this city. And don’t forget about dessert! Ghirardelli Square is home to several chocolate shops where you can indulge in sweet treats like chocolate fudge or caramel-filled truffles.

South Dakota

South Dakota is a beautiful state with plenty to see and do. The landscape is varied, from the Badlands to the Black Hills, and there are numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation. The state also has a rich history and culture, as well as being home to some of the country’s best food and wine.

The state offers a variety of activities that won’t break the bank, from hiking and camping in the great outdoors to exploring the rich history and culture. And, of course, don’t forget about the delicious food and wine! Here are some tips on how to make your trip to South Dakota as affordable as possible:

Los Angeles

Here is how to travel to Los Angeles on a budget

1. Use public transportation whenever possible. Los Angeles has an extensive public transportation system that can get you around the city relatively cheaply. If you’re staying in a hotel, be sure to ask about any shuttle services that may be available to help you get around town without having to rent a car.

2. Take advantage of free or discounted attractions.  Many of Los Angeles’ most popular attractions are free or discounted for students, seniors, and other groups. Do some research ahead of time to find out which attractions fit your budget.

3. Eat like a local. Food is one of the biggest expenses when traveling, but it doesn’t have to be if you eat like a local. Check out farmers’ markets and ethnic supermarkets for cheap eats that will still allow you to experience the best of LA’s food scene.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy San Diego without spending a lot of money. One of the best things to do is simply to spend time outdoors, enjoying the wonderful weather.

Balboa Park

Balboa Park is a large urban cultural park in San Diego, California that contains museums, gardens, and attractions such as the Zoo. The park has free admission, making it a great budget-friendly activity. 2

Mission Bay Park

Take a walk or ride a bike along the scenic waterfront at Mission Bay Park.

This 4,235-acre park is perfect for a leisurely stroll or an active afternoon spent outdoors.

Visit Seaport Village, an open-air shopping mall with over 50 unique shops and restaurants overlooking San Diego Bay. Seaport Village is the perfect place to find souvenirs, grab a bite to eat, or simply enjoy the beautiful views.

There are many reasons to visit Lake Tahoe. The area is stunning, with its natural beauty and majestic mountains. It is also a great place to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and swimming. 

In addition, Lake Tahoe is home to some of the best skiing in the world. Whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation or an action-packed adventure, Lake Tahoe has something to offer everyone.

Hiking and swimming are both great options for getting outdoors and enjoying the stunning scenery. In addition, there are several free museums and art galleries in the area that are definitely worth checking out. 

Of course, one of the best ways to enjoy Lake Tahoe is simply by spending time relaxing on its shores. Soak up the sun, read a book, and enjoy all that this beautiful place has to offer.

South Carolina

Assuming you would like tips on how to travel to South Carolina cheaply, here are a few ideas. One option is to visit during the off-season, typically from mid-April to mid-June, or from late August to early November. Not only will attractions and accommodation be less crowded but rates will also be lower. 

Another way to save money is by eating at local diners and avoiding tourist traps – do some research beforehand so you know where the best places are. 

And finally, take advantage of free activities like hiking in state parks or checking out small-town festivals . With a bit of planning, it is possible to have a great trip without spending a lot of money.

Charlestown

There are plenty of ways to travel to Charleston on a budget. One way to save money is to stay in a hostel or campground rather than a hotel. 

Another way to save money is to cook your own meals rather than eat out all the time. You can also save money by taking public transportation instead of renting a car.

If you want to see all the sights that Charleston has to offer, there are plenty of affordable options. You can take a tour of the city, go on a walking or biking tour, or even take a boat tour. There are also many free museums and historical sites that you can visit.

When it comes to food, there are plenty of cheap eats in Charleston as well. You can find affordable seafood dishes, as well as burgers and sandwiches. For dessert, be sure to try some of the delicious local bakeries!

Myrtle Beach

There are plenty of ways to enjoy Myrtle Beach without breaking the bank. One way to save money is to find accommodation that includes kitchen facilities so you can prepare your own meals instead of Eating out all the time. 

Another way to trim your travel expenses is to look for free or discounted activities. Many attractions offer reduced rates or complimentary admission on certain days or for specific groups, such as seniors, military personnel, and AAA members. 

Finally, take advantage of public transportation options whenever possible to avoid costly parking fees.

Assuming you have a place to stay, one of the best ways to save money while enjoying Myrtle Beach is by taking advantage of freebies and discounts. For example, many top attractions offer heavily discounted rates for seniors, military personnel, and AAA members . 

In addition, many museums and galleries offer free admission on certain days or during specified hours. If you plan ahead and do some research, it’s easy to find budget-friendly things to see and do in Myrtle Beach.

When it comes time to hit the beach, there are a few things you can do to keep costs down. First, consider packing your own food and drinks instead of buying everything at the beach concession stand. 

Second, bring along any beach gear you already have rather than renting umbrellas or chairs from a vendor. 

Finally, try to find a hotel or condo that offers complimentary beach towels and chairs so you don’t have to worry about carrying everything with you when you head out for a day in the sun

There are many ways to travel to St. Louis on a budget. One way is to take advantage of the city’s free attractions. The City Museum, for example, is a great place to explore without spending any money. 

Another way to save money while traveling is to find affordable accommodation options. There are many hostels and Airbnbs in the city that offer reasonable rates. Finally, another way to save money while in St. Louis is to eat cheaply. There are many inexpensive restaurants and fast food options available throughout the city.

Daytona Beach

If you’re looking for a beach vacation on a budget, look no further than Daytona Beach , Florida. This sunny destination is home to plenty of affordable activities and attractions.

Start your trip by spending some time on the beach itself. With over 23 miles of coastline, there’s plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the sun and surf. And if you get hungry, there are plenty of beachside eateries serving up fresh seafood at reasonable prices.

After a day spent lounging on the sand, explore some of Daytona Beach’s other cheap attractions. Take a stroll down Main Street, where you’ll find unique shops and local restaurants. 

Or visit one of the area’s many parks, like Halifax River Park or Ocean Walk Village. And don’t forget about Daytona Beach’s famous Boardwalk, which offers free admission and beautiful views of the oceanfront.

fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a wonderful place to visit for a number of reasons. 

First, the weather is almost always perfect. 

Second, the beaches in Fort Lauderdale are simply beautiful. With over 23 miles of coastline, there are plenty of options for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, or just relaxing on the sand. Third, there are a wide variety of activities and attractions available in Fort Lauderdale.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy Fort Lauderdale on a budget. One great way to save money is to take advantage of the many free things to do in the city. For example, you can explore one of the many parks or take a walk along the beach. 

If you’re interested in learning about the history of Fort Lauderdale , be sure to visit the Museum of Discovery and Science or the Historic Stranahan House Museum. These attractions are both free for all visitors. You can also save money by taking advantage of discounts available for students, seniors, and military personnel.

There are many reasons to visit Santa Fe, New Mexico . The city is rich in history and culture, and there are plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained. In addition, Santa Fe is one of the most affordable travel destinations in the United States.

Santa Fe was founded in 1610, making it one of the oldest cities in the country. The city’s Spanish colonial architecture is a major attraction, and there are dozens of museums and historical sites to explore.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy Santa Fe on a budget. Here are some tips:

Visit during the off-season: Santa Fe is busiest during the summer months, so consider visiting in the spring or fall when hotel rates are lower.

Stay at a hotel or motel outside of the city center: Rates will be cheaper if you’re willing to stay a bit further from downtown.

Take advantage of free attractions: There are many free things to do in Santa Fe, including visiting museums, exploring historical sites, and walking around downtown.

Enjoy affordable dining options: There are plenty of restaurants in Santa Fe that offer affordable meals. You can also find cheap eats at some of the city’s food trucks and street vendors.

Panama City, Florida

Panama City is a beautiful place to visit, boasting white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. Visitors can enjoy the many activities the city has to offer, including fishing, swimming, sailing, and sunbathing.

There are also a number of great restaurants and bars in Panama City, serving up fresh seafood and local dishes. visitors can explore the historic downtown area, or head out to one of the nearby parks for a picnic or a hike.

One of the best things to do is simply to take advantage of the city’s many free beaches. Additionally, there are a number of parks and hiking trails that are perfect for a budget-friendly outing.

If you’re looking for something a bit more active, consider renting a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the coastline. And be sure to check out the local farmer’s markets for fresh fruits and vegetables.

Ocean City, Maryland

This scenic city in Maryland has a lot to offer travelers.

Visit the Boardwalk

Stretching for nearly 3 miles along the oceanfront, the historic Ocean City Boardwalk is one of the most popular attractions in town. Visitors can enjoy strolling, people-watching, dining, shopping, and riding the tram car. Don’t miss out on some of the iconic landmarks like Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum and Trimper’s Rides.

Explore Downtown

Spending time downtown is one of the best free things to do in Ocean City. Visitors can window shop at all of the unique boutiques, try their luck at an arcade game or two, enjoy live music and entertainment, and savor a delicious meal. Be sure to check out Main Street for all your shopping needs!

Of course, no trip to Ocean City would be complete without spending some time on its world-famous beach! Soak up some sun, build a sandcastle or two, paddle in the waves, and simply relax surrounded by natural beauty. Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen!

Visit National Parks

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

The Grand Canyon is one of the most popular national parks in the United States, and for good reason. I mean have you seen picture of the best Grand Canyon views… This natural wonder is truly a sight to behold. 

Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to experience the grandeur of the canyon on a budget. Visitors can hike or bike along many of the trails that wind through the park. Camping is also a popular option for budget-minded travelers. 

There are several campgrounds located within the park, as well as some dispersed camping areas where visitors can pitch a tent for free.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is another top destination for budget travelers. This sprawling park spans over 800 miles and features beautiful mountains, rivers, and hiking trails galore. 

One of the best ways to enjoy all this park has to offer is by camping in one of its many designated campsites. 

Backcountry camping is also an option for those who want to really get away from it all (just be sure to obtain a permit first). For those who don’t mind spending a little bit more, there are also several lodges located inside the park where visitors can stay.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho

Yellowstone National Park (Which rivals the beauty of some of the National Park in Hawaii ) should definitely be on your radar if you’re looking to travel on a budget. This massive park covers over 2 million acres and is home to geysers, hot springs, waterfalls, and wildlife galore. 

While there are several hotels located inside Yellowstone, they tend to be quite expensive. A better option for budget travelers would be to camp at one of the many designated campsites throughout the park (just make sure you have reservations). Just like the best camping in Duluth Minnesota in need to make reservations for many places..

Yellowstone is amazing! And known for its beauty. Some might argue that it is the best place in America.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is hands down one of the most beautiful places in the United States that I have ever been to! And it is cheap.

Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City, Utah is a great destination for budget-conscious travelers. The city offers a variety of attractions and activities that won’t break the bank. From outdoor recreation to cultural attractions, there’s something for everyone in Salt Lake City.

The city is home to several free museums, including the Natural History Museum of Utah and the Utah Museum of Fine Arts. There are also several free outdoor activities, such as hiking in the Wasatch Mountains or exploring the Great Salt Lake. The city is also home to a variety of affordable restaurants and bars, making it easy to find something that fits your budget.

Salt Lake City is also known for its vibrant nightlife scene. There are plenty of live music venues, clubs, and bars that offer great entertainment without breaking the bank.

Yes, Salt Lake City is a great destination for budget travelers looking to explore the United States. Located in the heart of Utah, Salt Lake City offers a variety of activities and attractions that won’t break the bank. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.

One of the best things about Salt Lake City is its affordability. 

Key West is a great destination for budget travelers looking to explore the United States. Located in the Florida Keys, Key West offers plenty of activities and attractions that won’t break the bank.

The beaches in Key West are some of the best in the country and offer plenty of free activities like swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and sunbathing. There are also several parks  and nature preserves in the area that are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

The nightlife in Key West is also quite affordable. There are plenty of bars and restaurants offering live music, karaoke, and other entertainment at prices that won’t break the bank. Plus, there are plenty of happy hour specials to take advantage of.

Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City is a great capital city for budget travelers looking to explore the United States. With its low cost of living, Oklahoma City offers plenty of affordable attractions and activities that won’t break the bank.

For starters, Oklahoma City is home to some of the most beautiful parks in the country. Myriad Botanical Gardens is a stunning outdoor oasis with lush gardens and walking trails, while

Martin Park Nature Center offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, and bird watching. The Oklahoma City Zoo is also a great place to explore, with over 1,800 animals from around the world. Overall, OKC is a great cheap destination in the USA. And

Cannon  Beach, Oregon Coast

Cannon Beach, located on the Oregon Coast, is a great destination for budget-minded travelers. With its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Haystack Rock, it’s no wonder why this beach town is a popular spot for vacationers.

The best part about Cannon Beach is that it offers plenty of activities without breaking the bank. From beachcombing to tidepooling to exploring the nearby Ecola State Park, there are plenty of free activities to enjoy. If you’re looking for a more active experience, you can rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards and explore the coastline.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, Cannon Beach has plenty of affordable options. From camping sites to vacation rentals, there’s something for everyone. 

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque, New Mexico is a great destination for budget-minded travelers looking for an affordable getaway. Located in the heart of the Southwest, Albuquerque offers a variety of attractions and activities that won’t break the bank.

For starters, visitors can explore the city’s many museums and cultural sites. The Albuquerque Museum of Art & History is free to visit, while the National Hispanic Cultural Center offers discounted admission for students and seniors. The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is also a great place to learn about the city’s rich Native American heritage.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love Albuquerque’s many parks and trails, which offer plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and bird watching. The Petroglyph National Monument is a must-see. All this put togethers make it one of the cheapest cities in the USA to visit. 

Pismo Beach, California

Pismo Beach, California is a great destination for budget-minded travelers looking for an affordable beach getaway. Located on the Central Coast of California, Pismo Beach offers visitors miles of sandy beaches, stunning ocean views, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

The town itself has a laid-back atmosphere with plenty of restaurants and shops to explore. There are also several nearby attractions such as the Pismo Beach Pier, Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area, and the Monarch Butterfly Grove.

Camping in Pismo Beach range from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious beachfront resorts. There are also several campgrounds located nearby for those looking to save even more money on their stay.

Kansas City

Kansas City, Missouri is a great destination for budget travelers looking to explore the USA. With its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and diverse attractions, Kansas City offers something for everyone.

For starters, Kansas City is home to some of the best barbecue in the country. Whether you’re looking for a classic pulled pork sandwich or something more exotic like burnt ends, you’ll find it in Kansas City. And with so many restaurants to choose from, you’re sure to find something that fits your budget.

When it comes to attractions, Kansas City has plenty of free and low-cost options. The city is home to several museums, including the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the National World War I Museum and Memorial. 

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is one of the most affordable places to travel in the USA. Located in Southern California, this park offers a unique desert landscape with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities.

The park is home to the iconic Joshua trees, which are actually a type of yucca plant. These trees provide an interesting backdrop for exploring the area’s many trails and rock formations

The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including coyotes, roadrunners, and desert tortoises. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the wide range of species that can be seen in the area.

Eureka Sand Dunes

The Eureka Sand Dunes in California are one of the most unique and affordable places to travel in the USA. Located in Death Valley National Park, these sand dunes are some of the tallest in North America, reaching heights of up to 600 feet. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including coyotes, kit foxes, and bighorn sheep.

Visitors can explore the dunes by foot or rent an off-road vehicle to traverse the area. The best time to visit is during the spring and fall months when temperatures are milder. During these times, visitors can also take advantage of camping opportunities in the nearby Eureka Valley Campground.

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is one of the most affordable places to travel in the United States. Located in California, Death Valley is a desert landscape that offers visitors an array of activities and attractions. From its stunning sand dunes to its unique geological formations, Death Valley has something for everyone.

The best part about visiting Death Valley is that it’s free! There are no entrance fees or camping fees, so you can explore the park without breaking the bank. There are plenty of activities to do in Death Valley, such as hiking, biking, and exploring the unique geological formations. You can also take a scenic drive through the park or go on a guided tour.

Death Valley is also home to some of the most spectacular night skies in the United States. With its clear air and lack of light pollution, you can see the stars and planets in all their glory. There are plenty of places to camp in Death Valley , so you can enjoy the night sky without spending a fortune on lodging.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is one of the most beautiful and affordable places to travel in the USA. Located in Montana, Glacier National Park is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the country. From snow-capped mountains to crystal clear lakes, Glacier National Park offers visitors a breathtaking experience that won’t break the bank.

The park is open year-round and offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. Hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching are just a few of the activities that can be enjoyed in Glacier National Park. The park also offers guided tours and educational programs to help visitors learn more about the area’s history and ecology.

Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach, California is a great destination for budget travelers looking to explore the West Coast. Located in Orange County, Huntington Beach offers miles of sandy beaches and plenty of activities to keep you busy. From surfing and swimming to biking and beach volleyball, there’s something for everyone here. Plus, the city has a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from

The city also offers plenty of affordable accommodation options, from beachfront hotels to budget motels. There are also a number of camping sites in the area, so you can save even more money by pitching a tent and sleeping under the stars.

Huntington Beach is known for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals, making it a great place to relax and unwind. 

Palm Beach, Florida is a great destination for budget-minded travelers looking to explore the Sunshine State. Located on the Atlantic Coast, Palm Beach offers miles of pristine beaches, world-class shopping and dining, and plenty of outdoor activities.

The area is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, fishing, kayaking and more on the white sand beaches. There are also several state parks and nature preserves in the area, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, bird watching and more.

Palm Beach is also known for its shopping and dining options. The city is home to world-class boutiques, art galleries, restaurants and cafes. Visitors can find everything from designer clothing to local artisanal goods.

South Padre Island

South Padre Island is a great destination for travelers looking for an affordable vacation in the United States. Located on the southern tip of Texas, South Padre Island offers miles of sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and plenty of activities to keep you entertained.

The island is home to a variety of attractions such as Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark, Sea Turtle Inc., and the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center. There are also plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops to explore.

Accommodations on South Padre Island range from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, there’s something for everyone.

The island is also home to some of the best fishing in the country and  cool attractions.

Carlsbad Beach, California

Carlsbad Beach in California is an excellent destination for budget travelers looking for a beach getaway. Known for its stunning rocky cliffs, this is one of the best cheap travel destinations for a beach vacation in the USA.

  Located just north of San Diego, Carlsbad Beach offers miles of sandy shoreline, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. There are also plenty of activities to enjoy in the area such as kayaking, fishing, and whale watching.

The best part about Carlsbad are the rocky cliffs, beautiful beach, and soft sand.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is one of the most beautiful and affordable places to travel in the United States. Located on the rugged coast of Maine, Acadia offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, lush forests, and majestic mountains. The park is home to a variety of wildlife including moose, deer, foxes, and bald eagles.

The best part about visiting Acadia is that it is very affordable. There are no entrance fees to the park, and camping is available for a minimal fee. Additionally, there are many free activities to enjoy such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing.

Acadia National Park also offers plenty of cultural attractions. The park is home to several historic lighthouses, museums, and art galleries. 

Bar Harbor, Beautiful Coastal Town

Bar Harbor, Maine is a beautiful coastal town located on the eastern coast of the United States. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with rocky cliffs and sandy beaches that are perfect for exploring. The town also offers plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained, from whale watching to kayaking and hiking.

Bar Harbor is an affordable destination for travelers looking to explore the east coast without breaking the bank. Accommodations range from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts, and there are plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from. The town is also home to a variety of attractions, including the Bar Harbor Whale Museum, the Abbe Museum, and the Acadia National Park.

Bar Harbor is a great place for travelers looking for an affordable getaway with plenty of activities and cool attractions. And overall, one great cheap travel destinations in the USA.

Durango and San Juan Scenic Byway

Durango, Colorado is a great destination for travelers looking to explore the beauty of the American Southwest without breaking the bank. Located in the San Juan Mountains, Durango offers breathtaking views and plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy.

One of the best ways to experience Durango’s natural beauty is by taking a drive along the San Juan Scenic Byway. This scenic route takes you through the San Juan National Forest, where you can take in breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. Along the way, you’ll pass by historic mining towns, alpine lakes, and plenty of wildlife.

Durango is also home to a variety of outdoor activities that won’t break your budget. You can go hiking or biking on one of the many trails. And there are a lot of chances to take in some scenic views.

Road Trip THE HURRICANE RIDGE ROAD 

This 17-mile road takes you from Port Angeles to Hurricane Ridge, offering incredible views of the Olympic Mountains and Strait of Juan de Fuca along the way. The road is open year-round, but it can be snow-covered and icy in winter, so use caution if driving then. There is no fee to drive the road.

VISIT RIALTO BEACH

 One of the most popular beaches in Olympic National Park, Rialto Beach is known for its sea stacks, driftwood, and tidepools. It’s also a great place to watch wildlife like seals, sea lions, and bald eagles. 

The beach is located on the coast near La Push and is only accessible by foot (about a 2-mile hike from the trailhead). There is no fee to visit Rialto Beach.

HIKE THROUGH OLD-GROWTH FORESTS 

Olympic National Park is home to some of the tallest trees in the world  (including Douglas firs that are more than 300 feet tall!). You can experience these ancient forests by hiking on one of many trails throughout the park (check out our list of favorite hikes in the  National Parks in Utah ). There is no fee to hike in Olympic National Park.

 Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores is a great destination for budget-minded travelers looking for an affordable beach getaway. Located in the heart of Alabama’s Gulf Coast, Gulf Shores offers miles of white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and other outdoor activities. The area also boasts a variety of attractions such as golf courses, water parks, and amusement parks.

Gulf Shores is a great destination for budget-minded travelers because of its affordable lodging options. There are plenty of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals available at reasonable prices. Additionally, there are several campgrounds located in the area that offer camping sites for a fraction of the cost of a hotel room.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a great destination for budget-minded travelers looking to explore the Southwest. Located in the heart of Southern California’s Coachella Valley, Palm Springs offers an array of activities and attractions that won’t break the bank. From outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, and golfing to cultural attractions like art galleries and museums, there’s something for everyone in this desert oasis.

The United States of America is a vast and diverse country, with plenty of cheap places to travel from coast to coast. Whether you’re looking for a beach vacation, an outdoor adventure, or a city break, there are plenty of affordable options across the US. From Palm Beach to Joshua Tree National Park. There are endless options for a beach vacations, or exploring different climate of desert region. 

Red Feather Lakes, Colorado

Red Feather Lakes, Colorado is a great destination for budget-minded travelers looking to explore the Rocky Mountains. Located in northern Colorado, Red Feather Lakes is a small mountain community surrounded by stunning natural beauty. With its abundance of outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and camping, Red Feather Lakes offers an affordable way to experience the majestic Rocky Mountains.

The area around Red Feather Lakes is known for it’s winter activities like Sleigh Rides. And a great place for those seeking an small mountain town on a backpacker budget.

Manteo, North Carolina

Manteo, North Carolina is a great destination for budget-minded travelers looking for an affordable vacation. Located on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, Manteo offers plenty of activities and attractions to keep visitors entertained without breaking the bank.

The town itself is full of history and charm, with many buildings dating back to the late 1800s. Visitors can explore the historic downtown area, venture out on a day trip, explore major attractions. And take in one of the cheapest cities in the USA. And let’s not forget the cheap hotels.  

Historic Mosaic Canyon

Nestled within the expansive terrain of Death Valley, the Historic Mosaic Canyon stands as a testament to geological wonders. The smooth, polished marble walls interwoven with fragments of rocks offer visitors a stunning natural display of art. For those looking for cheap places to visit in the USA, Mosaic Canyon provides not just cost-effective exploration, but also a journey through time and history.

Antelope Canyon

One of the USA’s most iconic landscapes, Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon known for its wave-like structure and light beams that shine down from openings in the top of the canyon, creating surreal visuals. Located in Arizona, it’s a perfect destination for travelers searching for breathtaking views on a budget. As one of the cheaper places to visit in the USA, it offers unparalleled natural beauty.

Badwater Basin

Situated in the heart of Death Valley, Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level. The vast salt flats provide a mesmerizing, alien-like landscape that’s both eerie and beautiful. Those looking for affordable yet awe-inspiring destinations would be remiss to skip this unique location, making it a top choice among cheap places to visit in the USA.

Assateague Island

Assateague Island, stretching across Maryland and Virginia, is a hidden gem for budget travelers in the USA. Famous for its wild horses that roam freely, this barrier island offers pristine beaches and diverse wildlife. Ideal for camping and nature hikes, Assateague Island is a delightful getaway for those seeking an affordable US vacation spot.

Bryce Canyon

Utah’s Bryce Canyon National Park is a treasure trove of giant natural amphitheaters and eccentric red rock pillars known as hoodoos. The park’s unique geological structures and panoramic vistas make it a must-visit. Despite its world-class scenery, it remains one of the cheap places to visit in the USA, especially for outdoor enthusiasts keen on hiking and photography.

More Questions About Cheap Places to Travel in the USA, Answered

When it comes to planning a vacation, the cost of travel can be one of the biggest factors. Fortunately, there are plenty of cheap places to travel in the USA that won’t break the bank. But if you’re still looking for more information on how to save money while traveling in America, here are some answers to common questions about finding affordable destinations.

Average Cost of Traveling in the USA

Traveling in the United States can be an affordable and enjoyable experience. Depending on where you go, the cost of travel can vary greatly. However, there are many ways to save money and still have a great time.

The average cost of traveling in the USA is around $1,000 per person for a week-long trip. This includes airfare, lodging, food,  and transportation. Of course cheap travel destinations can be down cheaper for a backpacker budget.

What are the Most Affordable Cities

When it comes to finding affordable cities to travel in the USA, there are plenty of options. From bustling metropolises to small towns and everything in between, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the most budget-friendly cities in the US that offer great value for money:

Las Vegas, Nevada – Las Vegas is a great destination for budget travelers looking for a fun and exciting vacation. With its many attractions, including world-class casinos, live entertainment, and a variety of restaurants, Las Vegas is an affordable destination for travelers on a budget.

Orlando, Florida – Orlando is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the US. It’s home to some of the world’s best theme parks and attractions, making it an affordable destination for families. With its many hotels, restaurants, and attractions, Orlando is a great place to visit on a budget.

San Antonio, Texas – San Antonio is an affordable city with plenty of things to do and see. From the Alamo to the River Walk, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. With its many cheap hotels, restaurants, and cool attractions. And it is one of the cheapest cities to travel in the USA.

What is Paseo del Rio

Paseo del Rio, or the River Walk, is a great destination for budget travelers looking to explore the United States. Located in San Antonio, Texas, this two-and-a-half mile stretch of walkways along the San Antonio River offers visitors a unique and affordable way to experience the city.

The Paseo del Rio is lined with restaurants, shops, and attractions allowing visitors to explore the city without breaking the bank. The area is also home to a number of free attractions, such as the San Antonio Museum of Art and the San Antonio Zoo. Visitors can also take advantage of the many boat tours that offer a unique perspective on the city from the river.

The Paseo del Rio is also a great place for outdoor activities. All these cool attractions and the fact that it is one of the best cheap travel destinations in the USA make this an unmissable cheap place to travel in the USA.

What is the cheapest beach vacation in the USA?

If you’re looking for a cheapest beach vacations in the USA, then look no further than the Gulf Coast. This region of the country is known for its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and affordable prices. From Florida to Texas, there are plenty of great beach destinations that won’t break the bank.

In Florida, some of the cheapest beach vacations towns include Panama City Beach, Destin, and Pensacola. These towns offer plenty of activities for the whole family, including swimming, fishing, and boating. Plus, they’re all located within a few hours drive from major cities like Atlanta and New Orleans.

In Texas, Galveston is a great option for a those looking for the cheapest beach vacations. This island city offers miles of sandy beaches as well as plenty of attractions, such as Moody Gardens and Schlitterbahn Waterpark. Plus, it’s only a short drive from Houston.

Is a Desert Ecosystem Like Death Valley Worth  Visiting?

Death Valley is one of the most unique and fascinating places in the United States. It’s a desert ecosystem that has been around for millions of years, and it’s home to some of the most extreme temperatures on Earth. Despite its harsh environment, Death Valley is a great place to visit if you’re looking for an affordable vacation destination. It is a natural desert treasure, and full of wild desert vegetation.

Is Joshua Tree National Park Worth Visiting?

Joshua Tree National Park is a great place to visit if you’re looking for an affordable vacation in the United States. Located in Southern California, this park offers stunning desert landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.

The park is home to some of the most unique rock formations in the world, including the iconic Joshua trees that give the park its name. Visitors can explore these formations by taking a hike or simply admiring them from afar. There are also plenty of trails for mountain biking, rock climbing, and horseback riding.

The park is also home to some of the best stargazing in the country. With its clear night skies and lack of light pollution, Joshua Tree National Park is an ideal spot for amateur astronomers to observe the stars.

Cheap Soft Sand Beaches to Travel to in the USA?

If you’re looking for a beach vacation that won’t break the bank, there are plenty of cheap soft sand beaches to explore in the United States. From the Atlantic Coast to the Gulf Coast, there are plenty of budget-friendly options for a beach getaway.

One of the most affordable and beautiful beaches is Myrtle Beach in South Carolina. This popular destination offers miles of white sand beaches, plenty of attractions and activities, and a variety of accommodations to fit any budget. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Myrtle Beach has something for everyone.

Another great beach destination is Panama City Beach in Florida. This area offers 27 miles of stunning white sand beaches along the Gulf Coast. And one of the great cheap travel destinations in the USA. 

And there we go! A massive list of the  cheap places to travel in the USA . So whether you are already in the country, planning that  family vacation , or coming from abroad and looking for that  cheap vacation spot , there is a destination on this list that is perfect for you.

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Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

How to Road Trip Across the United States on a Budget

The Great American Road Trip is a rite of passage in the United States . We Americans have a unique fascination with the open road. It’s built into our cultural DNA. In Jazz Age America, the car was a symbol of freedom — a chance to escape your small town and the watchful eyes of parents.

As the highway system was developed in the 1950s, a wave of kids set out on the road to explore the country, giving new life to America’s car and road trip culture. Today, many still dream of getting in a car and driving into wide open spaces for months on end.

I’ve had the privilege of taking several multi-week and multi-month road trips around the country over the years. From traveling the Deep South to criss-crossing the country coast to coast , I’ve visited almost every state, exploring the myriad nooks and crannies of Uncle Sam’s backyard.

One thing is for certain, in diversity and scale, the United States is virtually unrivaled.

But this isn’t a post about fawning over America and its landscapes ( this post is ). This article is about how you can travel around the US on a budget.

Because, as it turns out, this country is surprisingly easy to travel on the cheap.

While rising gas prices and rental car price gouging post-COVID put a damper on things, it’s still easier than you think to have a budget-friendly road trip adventure around the USA.

In this post, I’ll explain how much I spent on one of my trips, how much you should expect to spend, and how you can save money on your next road trip.

Table of Contents

How Much Did My Cross-Country Road Trip Cost?

How to save money on your road trip, how to save on accommodation, how to save on food, how to save on sightseeing, how to save on transportation.

After 116 days traveling around the United States on this trip, I spent $6,262.67 USD, or $53.98 USD per day. While that is slightly higher than $50 USD a day, there were many parts of my budget I splurged on (see breakdown below) which skewed the number up. I definitely could have visited the country even cheaper if I didn’t have an addiction to Starbucks and sushi.

Here is how the numbers from my road trip break down:

• Accommodations: $1,036.36
• Food: $3,258.23
• Drinks: $438.94
• Gas: $696.98
• Parking: $253.00
• Starbucks: $75.26
• Miscellaneous (movies, toiletries, etc.): $170.00
• Attractions: $269.40
• Taxis: $41.00
• Bus: $17.50
• Subway: $6.00
• TOTAL : $6,262.67

Let’s break this down. First, my Starbucks addiction was unnecessary and added to my costs. Second, as a lover of sushi, trying various restaurants throughout my road trip drastically raised my food costs. Sushi, after all, is not cheap.

Moreover, I ate as if I wasn’t on a budget and rarely cooked, which is why my food expenses were so high relative to everything else. I would have definitely gone below $50 USD per day if I followed my own advice and cooked more often.

But, while I splurged in some places, three other things really helped me to keep expenses down: First, gas prices were low, averaging around $2.35 USD a gallon over the duration of my trip. (We’re going to discuss how to still do a road trip on a budget with high gas prices in the next section.)

Second, once you leave the big cities, prices for everything drop by nearly half so I spent a lot of time out of cities.

Third, I used Couchsurfing and cashed in hotel points to keep accommodation costs down. That helped a lot.

Overall, I didn’t do too bad and am happy with how much I spent. But is this how much you’ll spend, especially in the face of inflation and high gas prices? Let’s discuss that below.  

It’s no secret travel costs a lot lately and inflation and high gas prices have really made super cheap road trips hard if you’re not staying places for free but that doesn’t mean the road trip has to be super expensive.

With that in mind, here’s how to cut your accommodation, sightseeing, food, and transportation costs — all without cutting into your experience!  

1. Couchsurf — Couchsurfing is a service that allows you to stay with locals for free. Using this website (or similar ones) is the best way to lower accommodation costs, as you can’t get cheaper than free!

More than that, it’s a wonderful way to meet locals, get insider tips, and find off-the-beaten-track stuff to do in the area you’re visiting. While you’re generally expected to reciprocate your host’s kindness (cooking them a meal, taking them out for drinks or coffee, etc.), it’s still far cheaper than paying for a hotel or motel.

While the app has seen its community shrink in recent years, there are still plenty of hosts across the United States so you’ll rarely find problems finding someone to put you up.

Additionally, if you don’t feel comfortable staying with a stranger, you can use the app to meet people for drinks, coffee, activities, or anything else you want to do. That way, you can still meet a local and get their insider tips without having to stay with them. The app has all kinds of meet-ups and events too so be sure to check it out.

2. Airbnb — I only recommend using Airbnb in rural, out of the way places where hotels are limited. Avoid them as much as possible in other circumstances. Here is why we don’t really recommend them.

3. Budget hotels — There are a plethora of cheap roadside hotels such as Motel 6 and Super 8 that will help you stay cheap. Rooms start around $50 USD per night and are super basic and always look well worn. You’ll get a bed, bathroom, TV, tiny closet, and maybe a desk. They are nothing to write home about, but for a quiet place to sleep for a night, they do the trick.

And if you’re traveling with someone you should always say the room is for one person as these hotels charge you more for two people.

Also, make sure you sign up for Booking.com and Hotels.com loyalty programs. Hotels.com gives you a free room after 10 bookings, and Booking.com offers members 10% off bookings, as well as free upgrades and perks if you book multiple times after signing up. They definitely helped a lot.

Pro tip : Book through websites like Mr.Rebates or Rakuten . By using their links before going to Hotels.com or Booking, you’ll get 2-4% cash back in addition to the loyalty program deals.

4. Hotel points — Be sure to sign up for hotel credit cards before you go and use those points when you travel. You can get upwards of 70,000 points as a sign-up bonus, which can translate into a week’s worth of accommodations.

The points came in handy in places where I couldn’t find an Airbnb, hostel, or Couchsurfing host. This saved my butt in big cities around the country. I was glad I had accrued so many hotel points before my trip.

To learn more about, check out these posts:

• The Best Hotel Credit Cards
• The Ultimate Guide to Picking the Best Travel Credit Card
• Points and Miles 101: A Beginner’s Guide
• The Best Travel Credit Cards

5. Hostels — There aren’t many hostels in the United States, and most of them are overpriced. A dorm room typically costs around $30 a night, which means you can obtain a similar private room on Airbnb at the same price. If you are traveling with others, it’s often more economical to get a budget hotel than a bunch of dorm beds.

However, if you are traveling solo and want to meet others, the social benefits may outweigh the lack of value. There were just some times I didn’t want to be alone – I wanted to be around other travelers.

Some of the hostels I loved are:

• Samesun Venice Beach (LA)
• South Beach Hostel (Miami)
• India House (New Orleans)
• Jazz Hostels (NYC)
• ITH Adventure Hostel (San Diego)
• The Green Tortoise (San Francisco and Seattle).

For more hostel suggestions, here’s a list of my favorite hostels in the USA.

6. Camping — Dotted around the country — including around all the national parks — are inexpensive campsites. If you have a tent and camping gear, this is by far the cheapest way to travel. Campsites cost between $10-30 USD per night, which makes seeing the country incredibly affordable. Most campsites have basic amenities like running water, bathrooms, and the ability to upgrade to get electricity.

In addition to your standard campgrounds, check out the sharing economy website Campspace . It lets you pitch a tent on private properties all around the country for a small fee. Much like Airbnb, some plots are super basic and barebones while others are more luxurious, so be sure to poke around for a cheap place to stay as there are plots available all around the country.

It’s also legal to wild camp in national forests and on BLM land unless otherwise marked.

7. Sleep in your car — I know this isn’t glamorous but sleeping in your vehicle brings your accommodation costs down to zero. I know lots of travelers who did this to make their trip more affordable, some sleeping in their car just occasionally and others doing it every night. Chances are you won’t sleep well but you will save money, and that’s a fair trade to some people!

For those traveling in an RV, there are tons of free places to park and camp all around the country. Use iOverlander to find the best spots.  

To help you keep your food costs in check, here are a few quick tips:

1. Cook your own meals as often as possible – If you can bring a cooler in your vehicle, you can pack groceries instead of eating out all the time. And if you bring some containers, you can store leftovers in the car too, allowing you to cook larger meals at dinner that you can eat the next day for lunch.

2. Stay in accommodation with a kitchen – If you want to cook, you’ll need a kitchen. Prioritize accommodation like Couchsurfing, Airbnb, and hostels as those will typically provide kitchen access so you can cook your meals.

3. Shop cheap – Avoid the pricier grocery stores like Whole Foods when it comes to getting groceries and stick to budget places like Walmart. It’s not glamorous, but it will be cheap!

4. Find cheap restaurants – When you want to eat out but don’t want to break the bank, use Yelp, ask people on websites like Couchsurfing, or inquire at the desks at hostels for suggestions. Locals have the best tips and insights when it comes to where to eat so they can point you in the right direction. Simply cook, limit your eating out, and be happy!

1. Get a National Parks pass — For $80, you can purchase an annual National Parks and Federal Lands ‘America the Beautiful’ pass that provides access to all 63 national parks (as well as any other recreation areas administered by the National Park Service). In total, you can visit more than 2,000 federal recreation sites with the same pass. At $20-35 USD per visit, seeing five during your trip makes the pass a money saver. When you visit your first park, simply buy the pass and you’re good to go. There’s no need to order it in advance.

The U.S. national park system is amazing and really highlights the diversity of landscapes in the country. You can’t travel across the country without stopping at many of the national parks, especially as you get out west.

2. City tourism cards — City tourism cards allow you to see a large number of attractions (and often include free public transportation) for one price, usually $75-100 USD. They provide free access to museums, reduced access to attractions, and restaurant discounts. Be sure to look into them if you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, as they generally will save you money. They can be purchased at tourism information centers or online before you go.

3. Free museums and events — Inquire at tourism centers, use Google, or ask hotel or hostel staff for information about free events and museums. Many museums offer occasional free or discounted admission throughout the week. There are always tons of free activities in any city in the United States.

4. Free walking tours and city greeter programs — Many cities in the US have free walking tours or city greeter programs that pair you with a local guide who can give you a brief tour. Whenever I visit a new city, I start my trip off with one of these tours. They show you the lay of the land, introduce you to the main sights, and give you access to an expert local guide that can answer all your questions.

Check in with the local tourism office when you arrive to see what programs and tours are available.

For greeter programs, you’ll need to sign-up in advance before your visit. It’s good to give about 2 weeks’ notice as they have to find someone to take you around. Google “(city name) greeter program” to find them as some are run independently of the city tourism board so might not be listed on their website.

Here are your options when it comes to traveling across the country:

1. Hitchhike — This isn’t something I did on my trip, as I had a car, but it’s very doable (and relatively safe). Here’s a post by my friend Matt who hitchhiked across the United States explaining how to do so and come out alive (don’t worry, it’s safer than you think)..

For more hitchhiking tips, use Hitchwiki .

2. Rideshare — Taking on riders can be a way to lower your costs. On my first trip across the U.S., I offered rides to people I met in hostels. On this trip, I had friends and readers join me along the way. You can post ads on Craigslist and Gumtree and at hostels to find riders. This not only makes the trip more enjoyable but lowers your gas costs. Or if you are a rider, you can use the same services to find rides to get you places.

3. Buy a car — If you don’t have a car or don’t want to rent one, you can buy cheap used cars from car dealers or owners on Craigslist. There are lots of listings, and you can resell the car at the end of your trip to recoup some of your initial purchase cost. While this is easy in other countries, it’s hard to do in the United States, so remember a couple of key points:

• You’ll need a US address for registration documents to get sent to. I would use a hostel or hotel address and then set up a forwarding address with the Post Office.
• You’ll have to buy car insurance, which can greatly add to the costs of your trip.

Another option is to use a car relocation service. This is when you take someone’s car and drive it across the country. You are usually paid, and gas is covered. The downside is you don’t often have a lot of leeway on timing, so you might not have much time to stop and sightsee along the way. Car relocation options are also usually limited. Two companies worth checking out are Transfercar and Hit the Road .

If you just want to rent a car, use Discover Cars .

4. Use gas apps & membership programs – Install GasBuddy , an app that finds the cheapest gas prices near you. It is a must. If you’re going on a longer road trip, sign up for the monthly program; it costs $9.99 but will save you up to 40 cents a gallon.

Also, sign up for every gas loyalty program you can, so as to maximize points and discounts. Moreover, if you get a brand’s credit card, your first 50 gallons usually come with 30 cents off per gallon.

You should also consider getting a Costco membership for cheap gas. They have around 574 stores around the US so you’ll be able to earn the cost of a membership back by saving money on both gas and food.

5. Download parking apps – Parking costs add up — especially in cities. Use apps like BestParking and Parker to find spots and compare prices.

6. Take the bus – If driving is entirely out of the question, you can find bus tickets for as little as $1 USD from Megabus. Greyhound and Flixbus also have cheap rides all around the US. Rides under five hours are usually around $20 USD if you book early, and overnight rides usually cost $50-100. You can save big if you book in advance (often upwards of 75%!).

Don’t let the United States fool you! A road trip across the United States is a fun way to see a lot of diverse landscapes, experience different cultures, and meet interesting people. Traveling America isn’t very expensive once you are outside the big cities and you can easily travel the country on a budget by using the advice in this article.

Book Your Trip to the USA: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on the United States? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on the US for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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How to Travel Cheaply in the USA – Tips for Traveling on a Budget

Traveling in the USA is a dream for many of us. But, if you are on a budget you know the US can be expensive.

In this article I want to share practical tips for how to travel cheaply in the USA because yes, that is possible!

I’ve published a general article with tips on how to save money when traveling . I highly recommend you read that as well, but here I want to focus on some more specific tips that help you save money while traveling in the USA.

How to Travel Cheaply in the USA

1. pick your destination(s) wisely.

Yes, New York City and San Francisco might be popular places to visit, but they are also two of the most expensive cities in the USA.

If you want to travel the US on a budget there are many other great places to visit that cost a lot less!

So before you narrow down your list of places to visit in the US, compare the costs of accommodation, food and transport. This might make you decide to skip certain places and perhaps add cheaper alternatives.

But, even the most expensive cities can be visited on a budget, and the next tips will help you with that.

Also Read: 3 States to Visit in the USA Beyond the Obvious

2. Look Into Different Transportation Options

Renting a car is the most convenient way to get around most of the US, but it’s not cheap.

Flights within the US are also generally a lot more expensive than flying around Europe or Asia.

Therefore it’s worth looking into traveling by bus or train. They may take longer, but will help you save a lot of money and often see some beautiful sights along the way.

Greyhound is the main bus company in the US. But also have a look at Megabus.com which sometimes has extremely cheap deals. And Comparabus.com is a good website to use if you want to compare bus prices.

Amtrak is the name of the train operator throughout the US. They offer Rail Passes that can be a great way to travel cheaply in the USA, depending on where you want to go.

Make sure you have both the UBER and Lyft App installed on your phone to get around cities. But most cities also offer (electric) bicycles and scooters for rent these days, which are a fun and often less expensive way to get around.

In many parts of the US car sharing services such as Zipcar and Turo are cheaper options to rent a car.

And if you do decide to rent a car, compare car rental prices online before you arrive to get the best deal. And check if your credit card offers car rental insurance because that can save you a lot of money!

3. Fly Strategically

The shortest, most direct flights are often also the most expensive ones.

If money is more of an issue than time, compare flights that have an extra stop or a longer layover. It might save you a lot of money.

Many major US cities have more than one airport. It pays to find out which ones are used by low-cost airlines.

But, the airports used by low-cost airlines are often further out of town. So do factor in the potential extra cost of getting into the city.

For more information about flying strategically, I’ve written a detailed article about how to find the cheapest flights .

4. Ditch The Extras

Many airlines offer extras on top of their basic fares. If you’re traveling on a budget, say no to all these extras.

Some American airlines can be quite persistent with their offers during your online booking. Don’t pay extra to select your own seat unless you really want to. And you most likely already have travel insurance so you don’t need theirs.

Traveling light will also help you save money. Checked luggage almost always comes at an additional fee these days. Check what size carry-on you are allowed to bring for free and try to fit everything you need in there. Wearing your heaviest and bulkiest items on the day of your flight helps you save space and weight.

Avoiding non-inclusive airline meals and drinks, by taking your own will also show good savings. Don’t purchase your sandwiches or snacks at the airport as these tend to be overpriced. Instead, just buy them on route to the airport from a local supermarket.

5. Find Places to Stay in the US on a Budget

Hotels can get very expensive in the US, especially in major cities.

Airbnb used to be a cheaper alternative, but prices have gone up a lot in recent years, making them often almost equally expensive. It’s still worth checking both AirBnb and VRBO, but hostels might be your best budget option.

Also Read: Pros & Cons of Staying in a Hostel

If you want to enjoy America’s stunning nature, camping is a great and budget friendly way to travel the US.

Also Read: 7 Of the Best Camping Spots in California and Visiting Redwood National Park – a great destination if you are on a budget

Alternatively, Couchsurfing is a platform that helps you find locals who are happy to host you at their homes for free.

If you plan to travel in the US for a longer period of time, pet sitting is a popular way to find free accommodation. Or, if you have a home that you are leaving empty while you travel, there are several websites you can join to, safely, do a home exchange with someone in the destination you want to visit in the US.

6. Look for Free Things to Do

There are so many things to do in the US that don’t cost money.

From visiting beaches to free walking tours and certain museums that offer free entrance.

Just Google ‘free things to do in [insert your preferred destination]’ and you’ll find a whole list of options.

To save money on attractions that aren’t free, most cities offer a CityPASS. These cards give you discounts on major attractions and restaurants, and often offer free access to public transport as well.

Groupon and LivingSocial are two large websites that offer all sorts of activities at discounted rates throughout the US.

If you want to visit several national parks and forests while in the US, there is an annual pass that can help you save a lot of money.

7. Save Money on Food

Having to eat out three meals a day can really eat into your budget. So, that also makes it an easy way to save money if you are traveling the US on a budget.

If you choose to stay in a hostel or Airbnb, cook meals there instead of eating out. If you don’t have a kitchen, get food from the supermarket and have a nice picnic in a local park.

There are many cheap grocery stores in the USA. Walmart, Aldi and Grocery Outlet are some of the biggest ones. And even Dollar Tree stores are worth checking out as they offer some cheap food items as well.

Too Good To Go is a great app that works in a growing number of cities in the US. It partners with restaurants, bakeries, supermarkets and others to sell whichever products they have left over. It’s a great way to save on food and help prevent food waste!

When you do want to eat out, look for happy hour deals and do some research to find cheap places to eat before you arrive.

8. Travel Off-Season

Destinations in the USA, much like any country, have their busy times.

Although you can generally count on school holidays and major holidays being expensive times to travel, it does vary depending on where in the US you are traveling. So if you plan to visit multiple destinations, do check what the busiest and most expensive times are for each place.

If you can be flexible and avoid these peak times the savings will show.

9. Plan a Trip During Weekdays

If you are heading for a place popular with tourists, arriving on Friday night and leaving again on Sunday evening tends to cost more than arriving on Sunday and staying until Tuesday.

This is because airline companies need to keep their aircraft as full as possible when flying to destinations or returning from them. So to achieve this they discount unpopular times to fly, incentivizing people to choose those times.

Hotels and other accommodation options are also often more expensive on weekends than during the week.

So if you have the flexibility, plan to travel during the week.

Traveling the USA on a Budget – Conclusions

I hope this article has given you an idea of how to travel cheaply in the US!

If you want to save money when traveling to the USA you should do some research before you go and be a bit flexible. But traveling in the US definitely doesn’t have to be expensive and being on a budget doesn’t mean you can’t explore this large, beautiful country.

Enjoy traveling in the US and if you have any other money saving tips, leave them in a comment below!

And, depending on where you are from, you might need to apply for an ESTA to travel to the US. This article about applying for an ESTA shares everything you need to know about that.

• New York City on a Budget – Cheap & Free Things to Do
• The Most Beautiful Cities in the US to Visit
• Tips for Saving Money When Traveling
• Cheap Extended Stay Hotels in the USA

  Like this article about traveling on a budget in the US? Pin it!

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12 Cheap Places to Travel in the USA

11/11/2021 by Emily Becker Leave a Comment

When it comes to budget travel, there are numerous ways to cut costs if you have an open mind and a little creativity. Since the US isn’t exactly known to be one of the cheapest places to travel in the world , many people overlook the possibilities of doing so on a budget.

There are actually quite a few destinations in the US that are relatively cheap, and this list has some of the best ones, along with a price breakdown to help you plan your trip:

Table of Contents

12. Glacier National Park, Montana – $105-160/day

Montana’s rugged beauty shines at Glacier National Park. You’ll find pristine alpine lakes, snow-capped mountains, plunging valleys, and much more. Scenic drives through the park will take you to breathtaking overlooks, and there are over 700 miles of hiking trails to explore.

Traveling to Glacier National Park is a great budget option, because there are many possibilities for every type of traveler. Campsites are abundant during the summer months, allowing you to reduce your accommodation costs. You can also enjoy low transportation costs by using the park’s super affordable park shuttles.

My $105/day is a ballpark calculation — you might even be able to do Glacier for even cheaper! Here’s the price breakdown, but keep in mind that prices fluctuate depending on the season:

• Accommodation: Campsites start at $16/night, with cabins ranging from $50 to 75/night through Recreation.gov . Airbnbs start around $60/night. This cabin is a great option for two people, at $100/night .
• Meals: Travelers typically spend around $25/day on food while visiting Glacier National Park. This is because restaurants in the area tend to have affordable meals, around $10-15 per meal. Plus, park visitors tend to grocery shop and bring their own snacks and on-the-go meals.
• Local transportation: Visitors typically budget around $50/day for local transportation. Shuttles are available within the park for just $1 , and shuttles from local accommodations are $14-20 each way, with services like Uber and Lyft costing about the same.
• Miscellaneous expenses: The entrance fee for Glacier National Park for a seven-day individual pass is $20, or $25-35 with a private vehicle, depending on the season.

11. Salt Lake City, Utah – $100-150/day

Salt Lake City is a hub for nature lovers and makes a great launching point for some of Utah’s best national and state parks . There’s plenty to do in Utah , with some of the state’s best attractions right in the heart of Salt Lake City itself. With its wide range of accommodations, you’re sure to find something that fits your budget and liking. This is one of many destinations on this list that is practically made for budget travelers.

Here’s a price breakdown of how much it costs to visit Salt Lake City:

• Accommodation: Airbnbs start around $50/night; options like this adorable historic home are around $70/night. A great budget glamping option is this airstream on Glamping Hub for just $44/night.
• Meals: Travelers report spending around $40/day on meals in Salt Lake City.
• Local transportation: If you plan to use public transportation in Salt Lake City exclusively, you could spend as little as $5/day. If not, expect to spend around $35/day if you’ll rely on taxis or rideshares.
• Miscellaneous expenses: If you are visiting Salt Lake City mostly to check out the national and state parks nearby, you should plan on spending around $20 for a seven-day individual pass, per park.

10. Albuquerque, New Mexico – $76-130/day

You’ve probably heard all about all the wonderful things there are to do in New Mexico . Now that you’ve got all the travel inspo you need, consider heading to Albuquerque for a budget-friendly vacation. As it’s one of the most culturally diverse and artistic cities in the Southwest, you’re in for a treat.

• Accommodation: My budget pick for Albuquerque is this traditional adobe home & garden for $65/night. However, you can find Airbnbs for as low as $40/night, and there’s even a traditional tipi you can rent for $45/night .
• Meals: Plan to send around $35/day on average for meals in Albuquerque. Make sure you try the local chocolate and different chili varieties!
• Local transportation: If you plan to rely solely on Albuquerque’s public transportation , you’ll pay just $2/day. Taxis and rideshares will cost around $30/day within the city.

9. Denver, Colorado – $123-245/day

The Mile-High City is a can’t-miss destination because of its neat mix of eclectic metropolitan and rugged outdoorsy vibes. With a thriving art scene and bustling downtown perfect for city lovers, plus the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains and so many nature-filled escapes close by, Denver has something for every kind of traveler. The best part is that it’s totally doable on a tight budget.

Take a look at this price breakdown:

• Accommodation: There are a variety of accommodation options in Denver: an entire house in the heart of RiNo (River North Art District) for $62/night, or this boho-chic guest suite for $70/night. These prices are pretty standard for Airbnbs. Hotels run about $100/night for a 2-3-star place.
• Meals: Denver has a stellar food scene. You can budget around $40-50/day for meals and find a ton of affordable and delicious options throughout the city.
• Local transportation: If you are relying on Denver’s public transit system, which includes both buses and rail, you can purchase a local pass (limited to a certain fare zones; find more info here ) for $6/day, or a regional pass for $10.50/day, which includes service to and from the airport. If you are relying solely on taxis and rideshares, you can expect to pay around $80/day.
• Miscellaneous expenses: Since there are so many attractions just outside of Denver, such as Red Rocks Amphitheatre and Rocky Mountain National Park , you will likely want to visit at least one. Budget around $15/day at least for attractions.

8. Milwaukee, Wisconsin – $70-170/day

This quiet yet vibrant Midwestern city might have flown under your travel radar until now, but that’s about to change. As it’s located on the shores of Lake Michigan, you’ll find plenty of water-related activities in and around Milwaukee. Take a sunset cruise, go paddleboarding, or relax on one of the sandy beaches. You can also find a plethora of neat museums, delicious restaurants, and homegrown breweries throughout the city.

The best part is how affordable it is to visit Milwaukee. At as low as $70/day, you can take advantage of everything the city has to offer without spending too much of your hard-earned cash.

Here’s a breakdown of costs to visit Milwaukee:

• Accommodation: A great quality Airbnb like this vintage studio will cost $40-50/night. Boutique and chain hotels are more expensive, at around $100/night on the low end.
• Meals: Restaurants in Milwaukee are inexpensive compared to other cities in the US, at around $10-20 per meal, on average. You can budget $30-40/day for meals and enjoy the best food the gastronomic scene has to offer.
• Local transportation: Milwaukee has a free streetcar called Hop that connects some of the city’s most popular neighborhoods along a two-mile route. There’s also a bus system that only costs $4/day for an unlimited pass. However, if you prefer to rely on taxis and rideshares, budget $20-30/day to get around town.

7. Chicago, Illinois – $130-166/day

If you’re an avid BMTM reader, you might be thinking, how many times is this girl going to tell me to visit Chicago? Guilty! I’m always telling people, near and far, how much I love the Windy City. I can’t help it, what’s a Chi-town native to do?

You might associate Chicago with its towering skyscrapers and glittery downtown, known as the Loop. And you might assume that visiting is going to cost a pretty penny. But that’s where I hope to surprise you. After living in Chicago for many years, I’ve mastered the art of saving money as a resident, and I’m here to share my secrets with you.

Here are a few ideas on doing Chicago on a budget, with a price breakdown:

• Accommodation: Airbnb is your best bet for finding budget-friendly accommodation in Chi-town. Take this gorgeous apartment in the culturally rich Ukrainian Village, for example. It’s just $60/night and has two bedrooms. Another great option is this vibrant studio on the northside in Uptown for $66/night. The key is to find a place outside of the Loop (downtown) but close to an L (train) stop. You’ll pay less, and the train makes it easy to get to all of the city’s best attractions.
• Meals: Restaurants might typically be more expensive in a big city like Chicago, but striking a little balance will help you save money. A meal at a sit-down restaurant will likely run $20-30, so consider having a light breakfast (maybe even doing a grocery run for breakfast items) and having a cheaper meal once a day. There are lots of fast-casual restaurants, plus authentic Mexican taquerías throughout town. Plus, restaurants are cheaper outside of the Loop. Plan to spend $40-60/day on meals.
• Local transportation: The L or the bus can take you almost anywhere you need to go in Chicago. For just $10/day, you can get an unlimited pass that works for both the trains and the buses.
• Miscellaneous expenses: There are so many things to do in Chicago for free . So many, in fact, that you could plan an entire trip and not spend a dime on a single attraction. More coin for deep-dish pizza, hooray!

6. Nashville, Tennessee – $70-112/day

The Music City is on many travelers’ bucket lists because of its famous nightlife, live music, museums, and more. Nashville is the heart of the American country music scene and offers visitors a wealth of Southern hospitality. Find out why so many people flock to Nashville with a visit of your own, regardless of your budget.

Here’s an idea of how much you can budget for your Nashville trip:

• Accommodation: Although Nashville is a tourist hot spot, you might be surprised at how many affordable options there are for budget travelers. I found this charming guest suite for just $52/night and this hostel that has dorms for $40/night.
• Meals: You can definitely stretch your dollar when comes to eating in Nashville. Portions are generous and prices are low. Budget around $30-40/day for meals.
• Local transportation: If you are staying in downtown Nashville, you can get away with getting from place to place on foot. The public transportation options are slim, so plan to use taxis or rideshares to get anywhere you can’t reach on foot (about $15-20/day).
• Miscellaneous expenses: Just like Chicago, there are tons of free things to do in Nashville . From free live music to free museums, you can easily occupy yourself around town without spending too much.

5. Louisville, Kentucky – $94-120/day

A city known for its thoroughbred horses, fine whiskey, and soul food, Louisville is about to shoot to the top of your travel bucket list. Not only is this Kentucky gem full of awesome things to do, but it’s one of the most ideal destinations for budget travelers.

Here’s what you need to start planning your Louisville travel budget:

• Accommodation: Finding affordable accommodation is a breeze in Louisville. This cute loft is only $47/night, and it’s just $54/night to stay in this vintage suite . Both are examples of Airbnbs that are conveniently located in the heart of the city.
• Meals: Southern hospitality is evident in Louisville as soon as you have your first meal. Portions are huge and prices are reasonable. Plan to spend $30-40/day for meals — and don’t miss out on the insanely delicious BBQ!
• Local transportation: For just $3.50 for a one-day pass and $15 for a seven-day pass, you can have unlimited rides on Louisville’s public transportation system, TARC . If you aren’t into taking the bus, plan to spend around $15-20/day on taxis or rideshares.
• Miscellaneous expenses: Many of the things to do in Louisville are quite affordable and even free! You can spend as little as $10/day on attractions.

4. San Antonio, Texas – $86-150/day

Known for being the home of the famous Alamo, San Antonio is full of rich colonial history as well as Mexican culture. The San Antonio River is the city’s focal point and is lined with cafés, restaurants, shops, and more. Along the River Walk and throughout downtown, you can spend hours strolling about and taking in the city’s beauty.

With this budget breakdown, you can spend as little as $86/day:

• Accommodation: Enjoy San Antonio’s unique charm by booking an affordable Airbnb, like this sweet and compact rental unit for $64/night or this stylish guesthouse for $58/night.
• Meals: One of my favorite things about San Antonio is the excellent Mexican food you can find around any corner. Even better, the taquerías are super cheap! You can plan to spend $25-40/day on meals.
• Local transportation: The public transportation system in San Antonio is not only easy to use, but it’s quite affordable, at just $2.75 for a day pass. If you plan to get around mainly on taxis and rideshares, plan to spend around $20-30/day.
• Miscellaneous expenses: There are plenty of things to do in San Antonio for very cheap ($15/day) or even free. Check out the Riverwalk, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, or the San Antonio Museum of Art, all of which are free to visit.

3. New Orleans, Louisiana – $94-147/day

New Orleans is easily one of the most unique places in the United States. It’s full of lively jazz music, vibrant art, and epic gastronomy. You may not have known that this incredible city is totally doable on a tight budget, so I’m here to break down how to enjoy the best of New Orleans, on as little as $94/day.

Here’s what I found:

• Accommodation: Prepared to be amazed with even more incredible budget Airbnbs! This eclectic cottage in the Garden District is a dream at $56/night, and this chic guest suite near the French Quarter is just $62/night.
• Meals: If you’ve been to NOLA, you know that the food is superb. With so many mouth-watering cafés and soul food joints, your belly will be very happy here. New Orleans is also a great spot for vegan travelers ! Plan to spend $35-50/day on meals.
• Local transportation: New Orleans has a cool streetcar system that operates throughout the most touristy areas of the city. It’s super cheap, at just $3/day for an unlimited pass! Exclusively using taxis and rideshares will cost about $15-20/day.
• Miscellaneous expenses: There are plenty of ways to enjoy New Orleans for free, including checking out the Woldenberg Riverfront Park, visiting the Lower Ninth Ward Living Museum, or catching live music on the street in the French Quarter. For other paid attractions, budget $15/day.

2. Asheville, North Carolina – $75-163/day

Known as one of the quirkiest cities in the South, Asheville is bursting with cool spots to eat, drink, stroll, and hang. This hip place is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and is one many small cities along the famous Blue Ridge Parkway scenic drive. Not only will you enjoy Asheville’s unique vibe, but you’ll also be able to get out into nature just minutes outside town.

Here is a price breakdown for Asheville:

• Accommodation: Book a cozy cabin in Asheville’s historic Grove Park neighborhood for $76/night, or stay in this sleek apartment for the same price. Being so close to nature, there are also plenty of places to camp in and near Asheville, like this campsite for $40/night.
• Meals: Asheville has a ton of cheap and delicious eats, with tons of chill cafés and diners. You can budget $20-35/day for meals.
• Local transportation: Asheville doesn’t have a robust public transport system like other larger cities, so renting a car or relying on taxis or rideshares might be your best bet. You can rent a car for as little as $32/day or plan to pay between $15-30/day on taxis.
• Miscellaneous expenses: There are plenty of places to go for a hike or bike ride, such as the Asheville Urban Trail or Mt. Mitchell State Park. For other attractions, budget around $20/day.

For a more in-depth look at doing Asheville on a budget, check out our guide !

1. Atlanta, Georgia – $106-140/day

Atlanta’s rich history and cultural diversity make it one of the best cities to visit in the US, hands down. Between the fantastic museums, historical landmarks, and awesome outdoor spaces, you’re sure to fall in love with ATL. Even more, it’s one of the most budget-friendly cities in the country if you play your cards right.

Here’s my breakdown of keeping costs low while visiting Atlanta:

• Accommodation: My favorite pick for budget stays is this adorable tiny home near Grant Park for just $81/night. Another stellar option is this eclectic guest suite in the Cabbagetown neighborhood with lovely stained-glass details for $67/night.
• Meals: I’m getting hungry just thinking about Atlanta’s iconic food scene. This diverse city is bubbling over with ethnic restaurants from all over the globe. Budget around $30-50/day for meals and treat yo’self!
• Local transportation: You can easily get around Atlanta solely on public transportation, and at just $9 for a day pass, it’s totally worth it.
• Miscellaneous expenses: If you’ve seen our free things to do in Atlanta , you already know that this is an excellent budget destination. You could definitely enjoy this city without spending too much on attractions.

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Full disclosure; many of these budget estimates are just that: estimates. As travelers, we know that sometimes costs can change, especially with accommodations. Not only that, but extra fees can pile up (looking at you, Airbnb). Take these prices as a starting point when planning your budget vacation, and see what you can find. Who knows, you might be able to take on some of these cities for even cheaper!

Do you have any favorite cheap US destinations? Let us know which cities are your go-to for budget travel!

About Emily Becker

Emily Becker is a digital nomad based in Costa Rica. She's been traveling on and off since 2014 and has visited 15 countries—planning to tick many more off her bucket list. In addition to writing for BMTM, she works as a copywriter and project manager.

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• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Boston (FLL - BOS) $62+
• Flight Orlando - Boston (MCO - BOS) $63+
• Flight Philadelphia - Boston (PHL - BOS) $68+
• Flight Atlanta - Boston (ATL - BOS) $74+

India Flights

• Flight New York - New Delhi (JFK - DEL) $580+
• Flight New York - Mumbai (JFK - BOM) $583+
• Flight San Francisco - New Delhi (SFO - DEL) $649+
• Flight San Francisco - Bengaluru (SFO - BLR) $650+
• Flight San Francisco - Mumbai (SFO - BOM) $650+
• Flight Boston - Mumbai (BOS - BOM) $683+
• Flight Seattle - New Delhi (SEA - DEL) $707+

Japan Flights

• Flight New York - Tokyo (JFK - NRT) $599+
• Flight New York - Tokyo (JFK - HND) $616+
• Flight Los Angeles - Tokyo (LAX - NRT) $637+
• Flight San Francisco - Tokyo (SFO - NRT) $638+
• Flight Seattle - Tokyo (SEA - NRT) $738+
• Flight Houston - Tokyo (HOU - NRT) $742+
• Flight Los Angeles - Tokyo (LAX - HND) $748+

Phoenix Flights

• Flight Ontario - Phoenix (ONT - PHX) $38+
• Flight Salt Lake City - Phoenix (SLC - PHX) $38+
• Flight Los Angeles - Phoenix (LAX - PHX) $52+
• Flight Dallas - Phoenix (DFW - PHX) $54+
• Flight Portland - Phoenix (PDX - PHX) $70+
• Flight Denver - Phoenix (DEN - PHX) $78+
• Flight Houston - Phoenix (HOU - PHX) $78+

Honolulu Flights

• Flight Los Angeles - Honolulu (LAX - HNL) $216+
• Flight San Diego - Honolulu (SAN - HNL) $253+
• Flight Ontario - Honolulu (ONT - HNL) $258+
• Flight San Francisco - Honolulu (SFO - HNL) $267+
• Flight San Jose - Honolulu (SJC - HNL) $267+
• Flight Oakland - Honolulu (OAK - HNL) $277+
• Flight Las Vegas - Honolulu (LAS - HNL) $351+

Los Angeles Flights

• Flight Salt Lake City - Los Angeles (SLC - LAX) $39+
• Flight Oakland - Los Angeles (OAK - LAX) $40+
• Flight San Francisco - Los Angeles (SFO - LAX) $44+
• Flight San Jose - Los Angeles (SJC - LAX) $62+
• Flight Minneapolis - Los Angeles (MSP - LAX) $67+
• Flight Dallas - Los Angeles (DFW - LAX) $75+
• Flight Portland - Los Angeles (PDX - LAX) $83+
• Flight Seattle - Los Angeles (SEA - LAX) $83+
• Flight Baltimore - Los Angeles (BWI - LAX) $101+

Chicago Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Chicago (ATL - MDW) $38+
• Flight New York - Chicago (LGA - ORD) $38+
• Flight Atlanta - Chicago (ATL - ORD) $50+
• Flight Boston - Chicago (BOS - ORD) $61+
• Flight Orlando - Chicago (MCO - ORD) $65+
• Flight Philadelphia - Chicago (PHL - ORD) $69+
• Flight Dallas - Chicago (DFW - ORD) $70+

Denver Flights

• Flight Minneapolis - Denver (MSP - DEN) $58+
• Flight Chicago - Denver (ORD - DEN) $66+
• Flight Ontario - Denver (ONT - DEN) $70+
• Flight Dallas - Denver (DFW - DEN) $78+
• Flight Seattle - Denver (SEA - DEN) $81+
• Flight Austin - Denver (AUS - DEN) $87+
• Flight Philadelphia - Denver (PHL - DEN) $90+

Washington, D.C. Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Baltimore (ATL - BWI) $38+
• Flight Boston - Baltimore (BOS - BWI) $40+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Baltimore (FLL - BWI) $40+
• Flight Chicago - Baltimore (ORD - BWI) $70+
• Flight Houston - Baltimore (IAH - BWI) $73+
• Flight Dallas - Baltimore (DFW - BWI) $86+
• Flight Los Angeles - Baltimore (LAX - BWI) $101+
• Flight Boston - Washington, D.C. (BOS - DCA) $133+
• Flight Boston - Washington, D.C. (BOS - IAD) $139+
• Flight Denver - Baltimore (DEN - BWI) $143+
• Flight Dallas - Washington, D.C. (DFW - DCA) $154+
• Flight Seattle - Baltimore (SEA - BWI) $157+
• Flight Minneapolis - Washington, D.C. (MSP - DCA) $158+
• Flight New York - Washington, D.C. (LGA - DCA) $183+
• Flight Chicago - Washington, D.C. (ORD - DCA) $184+
• Flight San Francisco - Baltimore (SFO - BWI) $188+
• Flight Los Angeles - Washington, D.C. (LAX - IAD) $197+
• Flight Atlanta - Washington, D.C. (ATL - DCA) $202+
• Flight Los Angeles - Washington, D.C. (LAX - DCA) $212+
• Flight Dallas - Washington, D.C. (DFW - IAD) $219+
• Flight San Francisco - Washington, D.C. (SFO - DCA) $222+
• Flight Seattle - Washington, D.C. (SEA - DCA) $244+
• Flight Seattle - Washington, D.C. (SEA - IAD) $270+
• Flight San Francisco - Washington, D.C. (SFO - IAD) $290+

Atlanta Flights

• Flight Miami - Atlanta (MIA - ATL) $36+
• Flight Baltimore - Atlanta (BWI - ATL) $37+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Atlanta (FLL - ATL) $37+
• Flight Orlando - Atlanta (MCO - ATL) $38+
• Flight Tampa - Atlanta (TPA - ATL) $38+
• Flight Chicago - Atlanta (ORD - ATL) $39+
• Flight Philadelphia - Atlanta (PHL - ATL) $39+

United States Flights

• Flight Newark - Miami (EWR - MIA) $40+
• Flight New York - Fort Lauderdale (LGA - FLL) $51+
• Flight New York - Miami (LGA - MIA) $51+
• Flight New York - Orlando (LGA - MCO) $65+

Hawaii Flights

• Flight Los Angeles - Hawaii (LAX - USHI) $215+
• Flight San Diego - Hawaii (SAN - USHI) $253+
• Flight San Francisco - Hawaii (SFO - USHI) $257+
• Flight Ontario - Hawaii (ONT - USHI) $258+
• Flight San Jose - Hawaii (SJC - USHI) $267+
• Flight Seattle - Hawaii (SEA - USHI) $297+
• Flight Portland - Hawaii (PDX - USHI) $380+

Tampa Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Tampa (ATL - TPA) $40+
• Flight Baltimore - Tampa (BWI - TPA) $46+
• Flight Raleigh - Tampa (RDU - TPA) $51+
• Flight Atlantic City - Tampa (ACY - TPA) $56+
• Flight Philadelphia - Tampa (PHL - TPA) $56+
• Flight Dallas - Tampa (DFW - TPA) $57+
• Flight Cincinnati - Tampa (CVG - TPA) $59+

Houston Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Houston (ATL - IAH) $39+
• Flight Philadelphia - Houston (PHL - IAH) $46+
• Flight Miami - Houston (MIA - IAH) $49+
• Flight Dallas - Houston (DFW - IAH) $50+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Houston (FLL - IAH) $50+
• Flight New York - Houston (LGA - IAH) $57+
• Flight Detroit - Houston (DTW - IAH) $61+

Las Vegas Flights

• Flight Los Angeles - Las Vegas (LAX - LAS) $24+
• Flight Burbank - Las Vegas (BUR - LAS) $39+
• Flight Minneapolis - Las Vegas (MSP - LAS) $40+
• Flight Santa Ana - Las Vegas (SNA - LAS) $46+
• Flight Dallas - Las Vegas (DFW - LAS) $49+
• Flight San Francisco - Las Vegas (SFO - LAS) $51+
• Flight Seattle - Las Vegas (SEA - LAS) $51+
• Flight Houston - Las Vegas (HOU - LAS) $70+
• Flight Houston - Las Vegas (IAH - LAS) $70+
• Flight Denver - Las Vegas (DEN - LAS) $71+
• Flight Chicago - Las Vegas (ORD - LAS) $80+
• Flight Detroit - Las Vegas (DTW - LAS) $83+
• Flight Baltimore - Las Vegas (BWI - LAS) $86+
• Flight Atlanta - Las Vegas (ATL - LAS) $89+

Miami Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Miami (ATL - MIA) $38+
• Flight Baltimore - Miami (BWI - MIA) $39+
• Flight Dallas - Miami (DFW - MIA) $39+
• Flight Newark - Miami (EWR - MIA) $39+
• Flight Chicago - Miami (ORD - MIA) $40+
• Flight Philadelphia - Miami (PHL - MIA) $40+
• Flight Charlotte - Miami (CLT - MIA) $47+
• Flight New York - Miami (LGA - MIA) $52+
• Flight Houston - Miami (HOU - MIA) $61+
• Flight Houston - Miami (IAH - MIA) $61+
• Flight Boston - Miami (BOS - MIA) $73+
• Flight Raleigh - Miami (RDU - MIA) $75+
• Flight Detroit - Miami (DTW - MIA) $100+
• Flight New York - Miami (JFK - MIA) $117+
• Flight Cleveland - Miami (CLE - MIA) $121+
• Flight Los Angeles - Miami (LAX - MIA) $123+
• Flight Denver - Miami (DEN - MIA) $133+
• Flight Minneapolis - Miami (MSP - MIA) $141+
• Flight Washington, D.C. - Miami (DCA - MIA) $159+
• Flight Salt Lake City - Miami (SLC - MIA) $162+
• Flight Seattle - Miami (SEA - MIA) $179+
• Flight Ontario - Miami (ONT - MIA) $187+

San Francisco Flights

• Flight Ontario - San Francisco (ONT - SFO) $38+
• Flight Los Angeles - San Francisco (LAX - SFO) $42+
• Flight San Diego - San Francisco (SAN - SFO) $82+
• Flight Santa Ana - San Francisco (SNA - SFO) $87+
• Flight Dallas - San Francisco (DFW - SFO) $118+
• Flight Denver - San Francisco (DEN - SFO) $123+
• Flight Seattle - San Francisco (SEA - SFO) $144+
• Flight Minneapolis - San Francisco (MSP - SFO) $155+
• Flight Miami - San Francisco (MIA - SFO) $158+
• Flight Chicago - San Francisco (ORD - SFO) $175+
• Flight Philadelphia - San Francisco (PHL - SFO) $181+
• Flight Atlanta - San Francisco (ATL - SFO) $196+
• Flight Baltimore - San Francisco (BWI - SFO) $196+
• Flight Boston - San Francisco (BOS - SFO) $197+

Seattle Flights

• Flight Ontario - Seattle (ONT - SEA) $67+
• Flight Phoenix - Seattle (PHX - SEA) $81+
• Flight Los Angeles - Seattle (LAX - SEA) $82+
• Flight San Diego - Seattle (SAN - SEA) $85+
• Flight San Jose - Seattle (SJC - SEA) $95+
• Flight Denver - Seattle (DEN - SEA) $101+
• Flight Santa Ana - Seattle (SNA - SEA) $111+

Paris Flights

• Flight Washington, D.C. - Paris (IAD - CDG) $295+
• Flight Boston - Paris (BOS - CDG) $296+
• Flight New Windsor - Paris (SWF - CDG) $302+
• Flight Baltimore - Paris (BWI - CDG) $303+
• Flight Newark - Paris (EWR - ORY) $351+
• Flight New York - Paris (JFK - ORY) $352+
• Flight New York - Paris (JFK - CDG) $365+

Europe Flights

• Flight New York - Lisbon (JFK - LIS) $334+
• Flight Newark - Barcelona (EWR - BCN) $360+
• Flight Newark - Madrid (EWR - MAD) $362+
• Flight New York - Rome (JFK - FCO) $363+

Florida Flights

• Flight Newark - Florida (EWR - USFL) $39+
• Flight Baltimore - Florida (BWI - USFL) $40+
• Flight Philadelphia - Florida (PHL - USFL) $43+
• Flight New York - Florida (LGA - USFL) $51+
• Flight Boston - Florida (BOS - USFL) $59+
• Flight Dallas - Florida (DFW - USFL) $59+
• Flight Chicago - Florida (ORD - USFL) $63+

Dallas Flights

• Flight Houston - Dallas (HOU - DFW) $47+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Dallas (FLL - DFW) $52+
• Flight Phoenix - Dallas (PHX - DFW) $54+
• Flight Miami - Dallas (MIA - DFW) $55+
• Flight Atlanta - Dallas (ATL - DFW) $58+
• Flight Orlando - Dallas (MCO - DFW) $59+
• Flight Minneapolis - Dallas (MSP - DFW) $63+

San Diego Flights

• Flight San Jose - San Diego (SJC - SAN) $40+
• Flight Sacramento - San Diego (SMF - SAN) $48+
• Flight Oakland - San Diego (OAK - SAN) $50+
• Flight San Francisco - San Diego (SFO - SAN) $65+
• Flight Houston - San Diego (HOU - SAN) $67+
• Flight Houston - San Diego (IAH - SAN) $67+
• Flight Minneapolis - San Diego (MSP - SAN) $72+

Frequently asked questions

What do i need to know before booking a flight.

There are various factors to consider when booking a flight including cost, fare classes, baggage policies, the complications of flying long haul, and complying with airport regulations. To make your booking journey smoother KAYAK has developed a comprehensive flight guide including insights on finding affordable flights, packing efficiently, and utilizing the best travel tools.

What is the cheapest day of the week to book a flight?

The best day to book your flight depends on a number of factors, but there are general trends that you can follow to increase your chances of cheaper plane tickets. Based on an analysis of KAYAK data for all flights departing from inside United States over the last 12 months, the cheapest day to fly for domestic flights is Wednesday. For international flights, Tuesday had the cheapest tickets on average.

Which month of the year are flight prices lowest?

It’s well established that flights in the low season are generally cheaper than ticket prices during the high season. That means that knowing which month to find the lowest priced plane tickets will depend heavily on seasonality and your destination. While avoiding peak travel times can help you keep costs down, our data shows that the month with the lowest priced plane tickets for domestic flights based on all searches made on KAYAK in the last 12 months was January, while the most expensive was May. If you’re booking an international flight, then January is the cheapest month to fly and June the most expensive.

When is the best time to buy plane tickets - Last minute or in advance?

Last minute flight deals are definitely up for grabs but when exactly to purchase your plane tickets will depend on where you’re traveling to and from. Based on all data for flight searches made on KAYAK over the last 12 months, prices for domestic flights remained below the average price up to 1 weeks before departure. For international flights, deals could still be had up to 1 weeks prior to the departure date, with prices remaining below average. If you’re flexible, KAYAK brings you both advance and last minute one-way and round-trip flight deals.

Can flying international flights with a layover save money on airfare?

For many long-haul international flights, flying non-stop is not possible and you will have to fly with a layover. Some routes will offer both and you could consider flying with a layover for a number of reasons. Firstly, breaking up what would otherwise be a long-haul flight, taking a rest and then completing the journey might make the flight more manageable. Secondly, prices can also be lower than non-stop flights, so while it might take longer for you to reach your destination, you could save money. We’ve looked at prices over the last 12 months for the 100 most popular international destinations for KAYAK users and on average, prices for non-stop flights were cheaper than flights with a layover.

How does KAYAK find such low flight prices?

KAYAK processes over 2 billion flight queries annually and displays results from hundreds of airlines and third party sites, allowing it to find a variety of flight prices and options. It also displays results from 2M+ properties along with rental cars, vacation packages, activities and millions of verified reviews so users can see as many available travel options as possible.

How do I find the best flight deals on KAYAK?

A simple flight search at https://www.kayak.com/flights scans for prices on hundreds of travel sites in seconds. We gather flight deals from across the web and put them in one place. Then on the search results page you can use various filters to compare options for the same flight and easily choose the best flight deal from all of the deals coming straight from the travel sites to your screen, with no extra fee from KAYAK.

How can Hacker Fares save me money?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets on different airlines when it can save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket.

Does KAYAK query more flight providers than competitors?

Yes, KAYAK has access to more data and information than online travel agencies and consistently outperforms the competition in accuracy, globally.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you flights up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. That way, you can see if leaving a day or two earlier will find you a better deal. You can also select the flexible "weekend" or "month" search options to widen your search range and find the cheapest price that works for you.

Search cheap flights with KAYAK. Search for the cheapest airline tickets for all the top airlines around the world, airports around the world and the top international flight routes . KAYAK searches hundreds of travel sites to help you find cheap airfare and book a flight that suits you best. Since KAYAK searches many plane tickets sites at once, you can find cheap tickets from cheap airlines and for trains and buses quickly.

KAYAK also helps you find the right hotels for your needs.

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

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Add Price Drop Protection and Expedia will pay you back if your flight gets cheaper.*

As a One Key member, you can earn OneKeyCash on top of airline miles.

Save up to 30% when you add a hotel to your flight as a One Key member

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Tips on booking cheap flights.

Looking for the best time to buy airline tickets to get a cheap flight to everywhere? We’ve got you covered anytime, anywhere. Here’s how to find the best deal for flight booking no matter where you want to go in the world.

Which day of the week is the best day to buy cheap airline tickets?

For both U.S. domestic and international travel, Sundays can be cheaper for airline ticket purchases. Fridays tend to be the most expensive day to book a flight. Booking on the right day of the week could save you up to 6% on your airfare, according to historical data*.

When is the best time to buy airline tickets?

Based on 2020 And 2021 global flight data for Economy tickets, prices usually start to increase 56 days before departure for domestic flights. When traveling internationally, prices usually start to increase 21 days before departure*. Keep in mind that this isn’t a hard-and-fast rule; keeping an eye on prices is a good idea when trying to find the best airfare deals. Compare fares across different airlines, and set up a price alert for your preferred route.

Which are the cheapest days to fly?

Analysis of domestic and international airfare prices shows that flying out on Fridays can be cheaper. Many travelers start their trips on Sundays, so your chances of a lower price are better when departing early in the week instead. Starting your trip on a Friday could be almost 11% cheaper than air travel on Sundays, so book flights online wisely*!

Which is the cheapest month to fly?

The cheapest month to fly can vary depending on where you’re going, so finding the best rates largely comes down to avoiding peak travel times for your destination. If you’re looking for cheap international flights , the most expensive month tends to be February, while the cheapest is November with cheap flights in November offering potential savings of up to 34.6% relative to February. Cheap domestic flights work a bit differently, with March being the most expensive and August being the least expensive with cheap flights in August offering savings of up to 35%*.

How can I find the cheapest flights on Expedia?

Compare cheap airline ticket prices at a glance from a large inventory of carriers on Expedia. You can get cheap flights by staying flexible with travel dates, carriers, and nonstop/layover flights to get the best price. Insider tip: Become a member (it’s free!) to earn rewards back on every booking. We make your travel stress-free and source incredible airfare deals so you can sit back, relax, and start your vacation or business trip.

How can I save money on flights?

Mixing and matching airline tickets and fare types could help save money on airfare to your destination. Easily compare prices for carriers, arrival and departure dates, airplane cabin class, and more when you book with Expedia. Booking your plane ticket on a Sunday, and departing on Friday, could possibly save you money* based on historical data. You can also filter for flights based on your budget, such as looking for cheap flights under $200 specifically.

How can I get cheap last-minute flight deals?

The historical data analysis of flight pricing patterns shows that you can still find amazing airfare deals 3 weeks prior to departure* when traveling domestically. International last-minute flights offer great deals 2 weeks prior to departure if you’re flying premium, but economy travelers may want to strive for no less than 4 weeks out*. Try to stay flexible with travel dates, airports, and nonstop/layover flights to find the cheapest flights on Expedia. Whether you’re planning a quick business trip or a spontaneous holiday with friends, you’ll have your choice of last-minute flights, roundtrip, or multicity flights on Expedia. You’ll find everything you need for your travels all in one place — and all at the right price.

How do I book with Expedia?

Booking your flight with Expedia is easy, as all you have to do is implement your travel dates, departure destination, like flights from Atlanta or flights from Hartsfield-Jackson , and arrival destination into the search. Then, all the available flights for those dates and destinations will appear. You can use search filters to narrow down the results as well based on a variety of factors like the airline, number of stops, departure time, and policies like seat choice and refundable bookings. Additionally, travelers may alter their search for round-trip flights, one-way flights, and multicity flights.

What should I look out for when booking flights?

Several factors go into any flight booking, and you’ll need to keep an eye out for them all to ensure that you get the travel time, luggage policy, airline, and class you want. Consider which airport is closest to your ultimate destination (travelers to Los Angeles may prefer flights to LAX over flights to PSP , and make sure that the flight will accommodate all the luggage you plan on bringing. Additionally, consider the different flight classes including economy flights for functionality and premium flights if you want to enjoy a more relaxing experience.

Where’s the cheapest place to travel?

The cheapest place to travel can be in the same country, like Chicago. Flights to Chicago are fairly affordable no matter where you’re coming from in the continental United States. Flights to Las Vegas tend to be pretty affordable as well. While the Vegas airport isn’t a hub for any major airline, it does have plenty of competition to keep prices relatively low.

Where can I fly for cheap?

Staying within a strict budget still allows you to find plenty of cheap flights, even to destinations like Puerto Rico. In fact, flights to Puerto Rico don’t even require U.S. citizens to have a passport. Flights to Alberta and other destinations in Canada can be fairly affordable as well.

Is it cheaper to buy flights last minute?

Flight tickets can be cheaper at the last minute depending on how late you’re actually booking, where you’re going, and the kind of flight you opt for. For domestic flights with Economy tickets, prices usually start to increase 3 weeks before departure, and 4 weeks for international flights, according to historical data*.

Are fully refundable flights available?

Yes, several fully refundable flights are available and will be labeled as such right on your search results page in green text. You may also filter for fully refundable flights specifically to eliminate all flights from your results that don’t qualify. Just make sure to check the specific policy for each flight before booking.

Why should I book my flight with Expedia?

Booking with Expedia makes finding a flight easy, but that’s just the beginning of everything you can take advantage of. We also offer hotels, car rentals, and even activities that you can purchase with package deals available for travelers planning more than one aspect of their trip at a time. Plus, Expedia offers stunning cheap flight deals that can help you save with ease. As a One Key member, you will earn OneKeyCashTM for every eligible booking that you can use to save on future bookings. Plus, OneKeyCash can be earned on top of airline miles.

*Data specialists from both ARC and Expedia Group analyzed ARC’s global flight data to distil actionable information to help people save money on travel. While it’s impossible to guarantee when to find the lowest prices, after examining the variables, we were able to observe trends. Best day of the week to book and best day of the week to depart is based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August for 2021, sourced from ARC’s global airline sales database. Best month to depart recommendation is based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through December for 2020, sourced from ARC's global airline sales database. Best time to book recommendation is based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August for 2021 & average round-trip ticket prices for January through December for 2020, sourced from ARC's global airline sales database. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo.

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Wealth of Geeks

31 Cheap Places to Travel in the US That Won’t Break the Bank

Posted: March 4, 2024 | Last updated: March 4, 2024

Cheap places to travel in this economy? It’s more likely than you think. Despite rising costs, some places in the United States remain affordable and, therefore, accessible to all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, bachelorette trip, or solo adventure, our list of cheap places to travel will have you ready to pull the trigger on booking that flight. The only thing you’ll need to worry about is what to pack while you’re away!

1. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

National parks make great vacation destinations precisely because they’re usually inexpensive to visit, and Grand Teton National Park is no different. Although the entrance fee is usually $35 per car and covers up to 15 passengers, there are multiple days each year when fees are waived. Camp-style, co-ed accommodations at resorts like the  Climber’s Ranch  start at just $35 per night.

2. St. Augustine, Florida

Culturally rich cities with historic sites to visit always rank high in terms of affordable travel, and St. Augustine is the oldest in the United States. With its public beaches, Fort Matanzas, Castillo de San Marcos, and Fort Mose , St. Augustine is the perfect cheap place to travel. The forts afford beautiful views, nature trails, and live demonstrations.

3. Yachats, Oregon

Located on the Oregon Coast, Yachats is full of wildlife, natural beauty, and tons of free outdoor activities. Visitors will love Tillicum Beach, just four miles north, with plenty of parking and public restrooms. There are also multiple local hotels and inns  to choose from.

4. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

Cuyahoga Valley  offers a great day trip from Cleveland, Ohio, or as a standalone outdoor adventure. There are more than 125 miles of hiking trails available, ranging from easy to challenging. For cheaper accommodations, camping is available less than 10 miles away from the park.

5. Moab, Utah

Another excellent choice for multi-talented adventurers,  Moab  offers hiking, mountain biking, and river rafting in the Colorado River. Visitors can enjoy free art trails and a fare-free transit service that serves the city. You’ll also love the unique, rust-colored desert views and vistas!

6. Detroit, Michigan

There are so many free things to do in Detroit it’s impossible to list them all, but one must-see is the  Belle Isle Aquarium , the oldest original aquarium in the country! Although a $5 donation is encouraged, it isn’t required. Over 16 months of the pandemic, the aquarium invested $1.2 million in renovations and new exhibits, so there are tons of brand new water creatures and wildlife to spy.

7. Branson, Missouri

Noël Russell, CXO and co-founder of  Whimstay , a budget-friendly platform for booking last-minute vacation rentals, calls Branson “a blend of entertainment and serene landscapes.” Russell encourages visitors to enjoy a meal at BillyGail’s Cafe, known for massive, delicious pancakes and country-style meals at affordable prices. Tickets at the Titanic Museum are reasonably priced and offer family-friendly fun. As if to underscore her point, Branson was previously featured in a shorter Wealth of Geeks collection of  affordable travel spots !

8. Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga is an outdoorsy city home to the ever-popular Lookout Mountain and Ruby Falls. Tours of the falls, which utilize a glass-front elevator to descend more than 260 feet below the surface, cost just $39. With multiple attractions within 15 minutes of each other, you could spend all day with your family and not see the entire thing!

9. Broken Bow, Oklahoma

Russell says Broken Bow is “a treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor adventures.” Beavers Bend State Park is free to access and offers hiking trails, which visitors can follow up with affordable meals at Grateful Head Pizza Oven & Tap Room. The Forest Heritage Center Museum, with its nominal entrance fee, offers insights into the region’s rich forestry history. Affordable cabin rentals abound in Broken Bow, ranging from tiny rustic hideaways to sprawling estates. With Whimstay, Russell says travelers can expect an average savings of at least 24 percent.

10. Gulf Shores, Alabama

If you’re in the mood for a beach vacation but don’t want the high prices of other coastal cities, Gulf Shores has all the amenities you’re craving at lower costs. With miles of public beach and hotels and condos that range from affordable to fancy, there’s something here for every budget range. Gift shops, restaurants, mini-golf courses, and other activities abound.

11. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis is known for its pizza style, but one of its most popular attractions is the City Museum. Single-day tickets to the multi-story extravaganza cost $20, but kids under two play for free. Basic passes cost $45 and include access to many special events, plus come with a parking discount. Of course, you’d be remiss to miss out on taking a tiny elevator tube up to the top of the St. Louis Arch!

12. Raleigh, North Carolina

Much like Detroit, Raleigh is packed full of free activities that families and solo travelers will love. There’s no admission fee for the African American Cultural Center, Buckhorn Disc Golf Course, or the City of Raleigh Museum. While there are nicer boutique hotels available, there are also easily accessible and more affordable chain hotels as well.

13. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

According to Russell, one of many key highlights in Gatlinburg is the Gatlinburg Trail, one of the few dog-friendly trails in the area. It’s dotted with old settlements, and Russell calls it a “hiker’s paradise.” Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies offers admission for around $35, as well as discounts for children and seniors. Using Whimstay, guests could expect to save an average of 22 percent on hotel accommodations. 

14. Sedona, Arizona

Surrounded by seven wilderness areas, Sedona is the spot for hikers, outdoor lovers, and anyone interested in Native American heritage and history. Sedona is about three hours away from three separate tribal parks and has six national monuments within a three-hour drive. You’ll love having so many day trip options — perfect for a multi-night stay!

15. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

For a taste of local flavor, Russell says visitors should check out River City Cafe for mouthwatering burgers at wallet-friendly prices. Families and solo travelers will love the SkyWheel, a towering Ferris wheel with stunning views that offers affordable ticket options. The Carolina Country Music Fest brings the beach to life with tunes and ocean breeze each summer. 

16. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

With 250 blooming cherry trees in North Park, Pittsburgh comes alive with a beautiful pink color each spring. However, visitors can enjoy the 60-acre  Pittsburgh Botanic Garden , complete with a lotus pond, all year long. Admission starts at just $15, and there are multiple discounts available.

17. Big Bear Lake, California

Big Bear Lake offers outdoor adventure all year long, in any season. Travelers will love snowboarding, fishing, skiing, mountain biking, hiking, and more. From cozy rental cabins to resorts, private homes, and bed and breakfasts, there are also  accommodations  to fit every price range.

18. Bailey, Colorado

Bailey is home to the uber-funky Sasquatch Outpost, only a couple hours’ drive away from the larger city of Denver. Enjoy the quirky museum with interactive exhibits on a day trip, then head to the small downtown area to refuel at Aspen Peak Cellars. The winery features tastings, pick-up dinner nights, and even live bluegrass music.

19. Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis is the far more affordable sister to the state capitol of Nashville. A stroll down historic Beale Street offers live jazz and blues drifting from bars and restaurants at no cost, and visitors will love seeing the daily Duck March at the Peabody Hotel.

20. Fredericksburg, Texas

With its unique German heritage and picturesque Texas Hill Country scenery, Russell says Fredericksburg is one of the most enchanting cheap places to travel in Texas. Wine enthusiasts will adore the affordable tastings at local vineyards like Grape Creek Vineyards. Each spring, the town comes alive with the vibrant Fredericksburg Crawfish Festival, and the beauty of Wildseed Farms, a stunning display of Texas wildflowers, is always free.

21. Washington, D.C.

One of the best parts about Washington, D.C., is all the free historical sightseeing and museums. Whether you stroll down Pennsylvania Avenue to see the White House or ponder the giant statue of founding father Abe Lincoln at the Lincoln Memorial, there’s something here for every history buff.

22. Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City is a haven for beach lovers and budget travelers, according to Russell. The Ocean City Boardwalk offers endless free entertainment, from people-watching to stunning ocean views. Thrasher’s French Fries, a beachside staple, is known for its simple yet delicious fries. For a tranquil escape, visit Northside Park, a perfect spot for a serene stroll or picnic by the bay.

23. Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City features an excellent, free streetcar that has 16 stops in the  Crossroads Arts District ,  Power & Light District , and  River Market . After 2 pm, get free admission to Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, which hosts hundreds of animals families will love to pet and learn about.

24. Pensacola, Florida

Pensacola offers all the beachy activities of Miami at a fraction of the cost. With dozens of hotels, inns, and condos that span a giant price range, you’re sure to find something in your budget. Although travelers will enjoy the stereotypical gift shops and seafood restaurants, the city also features late-night Irish pubs, dive bars, and other forms of nightlife.

25. Plains, Georgia

Plains makes for a cute, cozy trip in the Southeast. It’s the home of former President Jimmy Carter, so you can expect plenty of peanut-related merchandise paying homage to the peanut-farming executive at local gift shops. The Windsor Hotel is stunning and historic, and other chain hotels offer less expensive accommodations.

26. Portland, Maine

The Old Port district is the best of both worlds, combining pubs and nightlife with historic cobblestone streets, boutique shopping, and more. On Fridays, from 4 to 8 pm, the Portland Museum of Art offers free admission. There aren’t many other places where you can see original Andy Warhol paintings at no charge!

27. Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Much like Washington, D.C., Gettysburg is home to a history that’s integral to the United States. The town might be quaint, but many of the downtown activities and even some of the memorials are still dog-friendly, a rare amenity while traveling. Gettysburg National Military Park is one such location, allowing you to walk in the footsteps of soldiers who fought on that spot more than 160 years ago. 

28. Salem, Massachusetts

Although best known for its Halloween-themed activities, Salem is a beautiful New England town all year round. The Salem Witch Trials Memorial is free to visit, as is Old Burying Point Cemetery. This quaint, albeit dark, town offers a bewitching getaway for travelers who don’t mind getting a little spooked.

29. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville offers both outdoor and free historical adventure. Being nestled just outside the Appalachian Mountains, visitors can choose from literally hundreds of miles of hiking trails that begin around the city. With soccer fields, picnic areas, disc golf, walking trails, bocce courts, sand volleyball courts, and a playground,  Buncombe County’s parks  are a cut above.

30. Baraboo, Wisconsin

Baraboo makes the perfect day trip getaway from the busy Chicagoland area. It’s best known for Devil’s Lake, a beautiful glacial lake ringed by hiking trails that offer challenging treks and unique rock formations. Dogs are allowed, a rarity for parks and trails!

31. Kissimmee, Florida

Just a stone’s throw from Orlando’s theme parks, Russell says Kissimmee offers its own affordable adventures. Explore the Shingle Creek Regional Park, where kayaking unveils Florida’s natural beauty and wildlife. Savor the flavors of Florida at Abracadabra Ice Cream Factory, where the treats are as magical as the prices. History buffs will enjoy the Osceola County Welcome Center and History Museum, which offers free admission.

No matter which state you’re from or hoping to visit, the US has some truly affordable day trips and cheap places to travel. While you should be on the lookout for cheap travel hacks that actually have the  potential to ruin your trip , these destinations aren’t a danger! Luckily, there’s something on this list for both nature lovers and those who prefer to have fun indoors. From free museum admission to national parks and more, you can easily travel on a budget if you get creative.

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What is the cheapest trip to Disney World? How to save without sacrificing the magic

• There are accommodations for every budget within minutes of Walt Disney World, but staying on property can make the most of a trip.
• Unlike other theme parks, Disney World welcomes guests to bring in their own food and alcoholic drinks, which can save a lot of money.
• Discount vacation packages and theme park tickets may be available from employers or places guests have a membership to like AAA and Costco.

It's easy to spend a lot of money at Walt Disney World.

Tickets alone to  Disney Very Merriest After Hours  can cost a family of four roughly $1,000. Add a sit-down dinner, some souvenirs and a hotel for the night and the budget balloons. Multiday vacations cost even more. 

There are, however, lots of easy  ways to save without skimping on the experience, which for some families may only come once in a lifetime.

From choosing where to stay to what to skip, here is how to get the most bang for limited bucks on a trip to Disney World.

►What can I get for free at Disney World?: 10 freebies for your next trip

►Tried and true tips: How to get the most out of Disney World in a day

Where to stay at Disney World

From motels to Airbnbs, timeshares to five-star resorts, there are accommodations for every budget minutes away from Disney World, but to maximize time and benefits, one of the best options is to stay on property.

That's because Disney resort guests get early theme park entry , which can be key for beating long lines for rides later in the day, especially for folks who don't want to spend extra money on Disney's new Genie+ or Lightning Lane  add-ons.

Disney transportation is free for everybody, but resort guests have the added convenience of regular service to the parks and Disney Springs from their hotels. Guests who bring their own cars have to pay for parking at the resorts, but they don't have to pay additional parking fees at the parks.

►Is it worth upgrading to Genie+?: Testing out Disney Genie at Disney World

By far, the cheapest option for staying on property is a campsite at Disney's  Fort Wilderness Resort . Campsites for traditional tents, pop-up campers and camper vans start at $66 per night in the off-season. Peak dates and larger campsites for RVs cost more. Perks of staying at Fort Wilderness include free evening sing-alongs with Chip 'n' Dale, lakeside views of the nightly fireworks at Magic Kingdom, and all the bells and whistles of staying at an official Disney resort.

Guests who prefer traditional rooms can choose from four Disney value resorts: three All-Star properties with average nightly rates listed at $126 in the off-season and  Pop Century  which averages $168 nightly off-peak. Standard rooms at both resorts sleep up to four adults. The All-Star resorts have been recently renovated and have similar layouts to Pop Century. One big difference is Pop Century has direct access to Disney's Skyliner , which connects the resort to EPCOT, Hollywood Studios and several other Disney resorts.

There are a number of non-Disney hotels near Disney Springs that also offer early park entry and accept rewards points for booking, like Holiday Inn Orlando and  DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Orlando . Some even pop up in Express Deals on Priceline.

Another option for redeeming rewards points is staying at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin , which are operated by Marriott and within walking distance to EPCOT. In addition to early admission at the parks, Swan and Dolphin guests are eligible for extended evening theme park hours , which are otherwise only open to guests at deluxe Disney resorts and villas and Shades of Green.

►Disney World prices keep climbing: Here's why die-hard fans keep going back

Shades of Green  is an Armed Forces Recreation Center on Disney property that is not open to the general public. Eligible guests  include military service members, Armed Forces retirees, disabled veterans and their families. While Shades of Green is not a Disney resort, guests can enjoy both early admission and extended evening hours as well as discounted rates on stays and park tickets .

One more option is booking a Disney Vacation Club stay through a rental company like David's Vacation Club Rentals  or  DVC Rental Store . These companies serve as a middleman between guests and Disney timeshare owners renting out stays at official Disney resorts. Cancellations may not be as flexible as booking directly through Disney. And while guests are able to score significant savings on deluxe Disney resorts, these rentals aren't cheap.

Discount Disney tickets

Costco members can buy discounted vacation packages for Disney World, which include park tickets and hotel stays. AAA also offers deals , but starting prices for tickets on their website may match  Disney's prices online  depending on the desired date. Some employers may also offer discounted park tickets through corporate benefits programs, though restrictions vary.

Thrifty travelers may be tempted to purchase discounted park tickets through third-party timeshare sellers promising steep savings in exchange for sitting through a sales pitch, but those can take precious hours away from vacations. Disney's official timeshare program, Disney Vacation Club, does not offer discounted tickets for listening to presentations.

How to save on food

Unlike other theme parks, Disney World welcomes guests to bring in their own food and non-alcoholic drinks.

Guests who drive to Disney can pop into numerous grocery stores off property.  Amazon Fresh and Instacart also deliver groceries.

To save money, guests can eat breakfast in their hotel rooms then pack simple lunches and snacks for the park.

Water bottles can be filled at fountains or wherever fountain drinks are sold. 

At the parks, quick service restaurants have the most budget-friendly meal choices. Guests can plan ahead and budget accordingly by checking out menus online .

While some adults may be inclined to order off kids' menus to save money, those portions are notably smaller and offerings are generally more basic. Instead guests may want to consider buying and sharing multiple snacks throughout the day so they can try different things without spending too much.

Skimp on souvenirs

The dazzling array of souvenirs at Disney World can break the bank. Fortunately  Shop Disney  runs various sales year-round, and retailers from Walmart to Gap sell licensed Disney merchandise, which also goes on sale.

Guests can keep an eye out for deals before their trips to avoid going hog wild when they arrive at Disney World.

►Disney World 4 Parks in 1 Day challenge: '19,338 steps later, my husband and I agreed we'd do it again'

More ways to save

Disney Visa Card from Chase customers can save 10% on select merchandise, dining and experiences. They can also earn rewards dollars throughout the year that can be redeemed across Disney World.

Another way to save is through Disney gift cards, which are as good as cash at the parks.  Target RedCard members  can save 5% on gift Disney cards. Sam's Club and BJ's Wholesale members can also pay a little less than face value. Gift cards purchased for full price at Kroger  can rack up fuel points for savings on gas.

One tactic that won't cost a thing is asking for Disney gift cards for holidays or birthdays. Those can be saved up to help pay for trips.

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15 Most Affordable Places to Travel in the U.S. in August

We've gathered some of the most affordable places to travel this August so you can plan your next summer vacation.

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While August is one of the most popular travel months, that doesn’t necessarily mean your trip has to cost a small fortune — especially if you know where to go.

To determine the most affordable places to travel in August, we tapped the pros at Kayak to pull flight and hotel data between Aug. 1 and Aug. 31, 2024. The prices listed for each destination below include a combined average for round-trip economy airfare and rate for one overnight stay in a standard double hotel room. “Among the cheapest destinations to fly this August are southern hotspots with major airports like Orlando, New Orleans, and Miami,” says Cara Johnson, Kayak’s consumer travel trends expert. “While these southern destinations come with a lower price tag (and warmer temps!), if you want something on the cooler side, try Denver or San Francisco.”

Additionally, it’s worth noting that all but one of these destinations are located in the mainland United States, making for an easy long weekend escape . So, whether you’re craving a serene beach retreat or an action-packed city adventure, the below destinations offer something for every type of traveler — and, best of all, they won’t break the bank.

Here are 15 of the most affordable places to travel in the U.S. this August.

Orlando, Florida

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Average cost (including round-trip flights and a one-night hotel stay): $519

A trip to Orlando is always a good idea — especially in August. While the weather’s hot (tip: be sure to pack plenty of SPF and lightweight clothes), you’ll be rewarded with fewer crowds. And while the city is best known for its theme parks — looking at you, Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando — budget-conscious travelers may choose to take advantage of Orlando’s many free activities and attractions , including the UCF Arboretum , the Dr. P. Phillips Community Park, and live performances and movie screenings at Lake Eola Park. We’d also be remiss not to mention the city’s burgeoning food and drink scene: There are nearly a dozen Orlando restaurants that have earned the coveted Bib Gourmand designation from Michelin — which highlights top-notch cuisine at excellent value — including Sushi Saint , Otto’s High Dive , and Zaru .

Where to stay: There are countless accommodation options in the Orlando area — check out the Disney and Universal websites to find special seasonal offers to save money. Disney's Pop Century Resort and Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort offer great value for people planning to spend time at the theme parks.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Peter Olsen Photography/Getty Images

Average cost: $520

New Orleans is famous for its Creole culture and cuisine, vibrant music scene, and abundant festivals — making it nearly impossible to be bored. Throughout the month of August, NOLA offers a handful of free and fun-filled events, including Satchmo SummerFest at the New Orleans Jazz Museum , NOLA Pickle Fest , and Red Dress Run . Travelers can also beat the scorching heat at one of the city’s many museums, including the New Orleans Museum of Art , The National World War II Museum, The Sazerac House, and the Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes & Culture . Finally, cool off with a refreshing daiquiri at the Big Easy Daiquiri or New Orleans Original Daquiri .   

Where to stay: The upscale Omni Royal Orleans hotel is within easy walking distance of top sites like Jackson Square, the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum , and the iconic Cafe Du Monde . The property’s rooftop pool, which offers sweeping city views, is the ideal place to cool off in style. Plus, guests can snag up to 20 percent off summer stays of three nights or longer.

Miami, Florida

Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure

Average cost: $538

With its beautiful beaches, buzzy nightlife, incredible architecture, and captivating arts and culture scene, Miami offers something special for every type of traveler. Best of all, you don’t need to break the bank to have a good time. Many beaches, including the world-famous South Beach, are free, as are parks like the waterfront Lummus Park and Flamingo Park, which offers a swimming pool, playground, and baseball field. Alternatively, take a self-guided tour of the city’s Art Deco Historic District or the eclectic Wynwood neighborhood, which boasts colorful street art, graffiti, and murals at nearly every turn. August also marks the return of Miami Spice Restaurant Month , in which patrons can enjoy three-course meals at some of the city’s top restaurants from $30-$35 for lunch and $45-$60 for dinner.

Where to stay: August is a great time to score a deal on a Miami hotel, so we've rounded up the best hotels in Miami Beach , from five-star resorts to charming boutique properties, so you can find your ideal home base.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Average cost: $540

You may equate Fort Lauderdale with spring breakers, but the truth is this bustling South Florida city by the sea — just 30 miles from Miami or 40 minutes by car — is a great summer vacation destination for beach lovers. Moreover, with nearly 25 miles of golden-sand shores, travelers will have plenty of room to roam along the ocean. Beyond the beach, travelers can stroll along the shop- and restaurant-lined Las Olas Boulevard , wander along the scenic Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk , and pop into one of the many museums, including the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens and the Museum of Discovery and Science . Foodies, meanwhile, can take advantage of Dine Out Lauderdale 2024 . Kicking off Aug. 1, the culinary event features multi-course meals at some of the city’s best restaurants at can’t-miss prices.

Where to stay: You can’t go wrong with a stay at the chic Kimpton Shorebreak Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort . The property is just one block from the beach and offers complimentary beach chairs plus two on-site swimming pools. Value-packed amenities abound, including a nightly wine and cheese hour, morning coffee and tea, daily beach yoga, bike rentals, and the use of boogie boards. Bonus: Pets stay for free (read: no hidden fees).

Denver, Colorado

John Coletti/Getty Images

Average cost: $553

Denver is teeming with things to see, do, and explore, from scenic hiking to brewery hopping and beyond. Speaking of the former, top spots include Mount Galbraith Park, Bluffs Regional Park Trail, and Chavez and Beaver Brook Trail Loop, all within a half-hour drive of downtown. Post-hike, grab an ice-cold beer at one or more of the breweries on the Denver Beer Trail , including Great Divide Brewing Co . and Jagged Mountain Craft Brewery . The city’s River North Art (RiNo) District is teeming with art galleries, concert venues, and eclectic eats, and you can easily spend an entire afternoon exploring the neighborhood. Additionally, no summer trip to Denver is complete without catching a concert at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre or watching the Rockies play at Coors Field . Pro tip: Purchase a Denver CityPASS to save up to 43 percent on attractions like the Downtown Aquarium , Denver Art Museum , Denver Botanic Gardens , and more.

Where to stay: Art lovers will feel right at home at the Acoma House . Situated just south of downtown in Denver’s Golden Triangle District, this property offers 24 custom rooms, each distinctively designed in collaboration with a local artist. Amenities include 24-hour check-in, bike rentals, and kitchenettes.

Washington, D.C.

Victoria Chamberlain/Travel + Leisure

Average cost: $565

Those craving a history-filled summer getaway won’t want to sleep on our nation’s capital . Here, you’ll find an abundance of complimentary attractions and sites, including the National Mall , the Smithsonian museums , the National Arboretum , the National Archives Building , the National Gallery of Art , and, last but not least, the largest library in the world, the Library of Congress . Free Tours By Foot offers — you guessed it — free walking tours, too. Be sure to also carve out enough time to stroll through picturesque Georgetown , known for its charming cobblestone streets plus dozens of shops and restaurants. Located along the Potomac River, The Wharf is among DC’s hippest haunts, with ample shops, restaurants, entertainment venues, special events, and activities like boating and bike rentals. Also, it’s worth mentioning that the Metro (D.C.'s subway system) makes it easy to get around the city, and it’s much more affordable than taxis or rideshares.

Where to stay: The trendy Yours Truly D.C . is about halfway between Foggy Bottom and Dupont Circle. The design-forward hotel also offers a buzzy on-site restaurant, barber, and record shop — along with prime people-watching opportunities.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

MargaretW/Getty Images

Average cost: $586

This summer vacation destination — considered one of the country’s most affordable beach towns — is especially popular amongst fun- and sun-seeking families. Myrtle Beach and its surrounding towns boast a whopping 60 miles of wide, sandy beaches, all of which are free to the public. Should you need a break from the beach, consider exploring the tranquil Brookgreen Gardens or the fascinating Ripley’s Aquarium ; otherwise, check out one of the city’s museums or mini golf courses . Visitors can also catch one of several free performances , ranging from magic shows and comedy shows to concerts. Broadway at The Beach , one of Myrtle Beach’s best shopping, dining, and entertainment complexes, also offers weekly fireworks shows. Last but not least, it’s worth carving out a few hours to stroll the 1.2-mile-long boardwalk, where you’ll find shops, restaurants, and the nearly 200-foot-tall SkyWheel .

Where to stay: Several chain hotel outposts including Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort and Spa at Grand Dunes and Hampton Inn and Suites Myrtle Beach/Oceanfront offer brand loyalists the opportunity to cash points in for stays to save even more money.

Atlanta, Georgia

Jackson Vance/Travel + Leisure

Average cost: $614

Craving an urban escape? Look no further than Atlanta . Visit this bustling southern city in August to enjoy minimal crowds — you’ll almost feel as if you have the entire city to yourself — coupled with discounted hotel rates and less traffic. Retreat to nature by biking all or part of the 22-mile-long BeltLine trail system , which is dotted with plant and art installations, including murals and sculptures, or the 30-acre Atlanta Botanical Garden . The city is also home to one of the country’s largest aquariums, the Georgia Aquarium , which is sure to impress kids and adults alike with over 120,000 animals spanning 200-plus species. Meanwhile, history buffs can visit the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park and the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum . When hunger calls, make a beeline towards Ponce City Market , which is home to an expansive food hall — plus a bustling bar and ample shops. Finally, art lovers need not miss the annual Piedmont Park Arts Festival , a two-day outdoor event taking place Aug. 17-18 that will feature 200-plus painters, photographers, glass blowers, crafters, and more; highlights include artist demos, live music, and a children’s play area.

Where to stay: The Starling in Midtown is less than a 10-minute walk to Piedmont Park. In between sightseeing, guests can cool off on the breezy terrace, which boasts a sparkling swimming pool plus plush cabanas.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Average cost: $621

While you may equate Las Vegas with glitz, glamour, and high-rollers, keep in mind that Sin City can easily be explored on a budget. Travelers can take their pick of free things to do in Vegas , including the water show and botanical gardens at The Bellagio, circus acts at Circus Circus, the wildlife habitat at The Flamingo Hotel, live music at The Fremont Street Experience , the Wynn Lake of Dreams show, and the volcano eruption at The Mirage . Also, score great deals on some of the city’s best eats by taking advantage of happy hour specials. For example, Brera Osteria at The Venetian Resort has half off pizza, cocktails, and wines by the glass every day between 3:00-5:00 p.m., while Jaleo at The Cosmopolitan hosts daily sangria hour from 5:00-7:00 p.m. with $7 sangria and beers, $9 wines, $12 cocktails, and appetizers as low as $4.

Where to stay: Marriott's Grand Chateau is one of (very) few Las Vegas properties without a resort fee. And while it’s not directly on The Strip, it’s less than a mile away.

San Francisco, California

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

San Francisco is famous for its vibrant cultural scene, incredible architecture, and top-notch dining, which means the Golden City truly offers something for everyone. And while the city boasts 20 distinct neighborhoods, Chinatown, The Mission, The Castro, Haight-Ashbury, and Fisherman’s Wharf tend to be the most popular among tourists.  It goes without saying, but top sites like Golden Gate Park (home to the majestic five-acre Japanese Tea Garden ), The Painted Ladies (a collection of colorful Victorian and Edwardian-style homes), Alcatraz (a tiny island off the mainland that was once a prison), and The Presidio (a former army post turned national park site) are all must-visits. Music lovers should plan their August trip here around Outside Lands (Aug. 9-11), one of the most exciting music festivals in the entire country.

Where to stay: For a stylish and sophisticated stay near top sites like Union Square, look no further than The Marker . The boutique haunt is housed in a striking Beaux Arts-style building and offers a buzzy on-site restaurant and colorful rooms and suites.

Chicago, Illinois

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

Average cost: $628

Come August, Chicago wins travelers over with its warm, sunny weather and ample outdoor events, including the Lollapalooza music festival (Aug. 1-4),  the Chicago Air & Water Show (Aug. 10 and 11), the Great American Lobster Fest (Aug. 19 and 20), the Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest (Aug. 16-18), and the Sangria Festival (Aug. 17 and 18). Other highlights include free open-air dance lessons as part of Chicago Summerdance , live jazz courtesy of Jazzin’ at the Shedd , and movie screenings under the stars brought to you by the Millennium Park Summer Film Series . Make your way down the restaurant-lined Riverwalk or Navy Pier , dotted with rides, games, restaurants, and more, before heading out on the water via a boat tour. Also, it wouldn’t be a trip to Chicago without a visit to the (free) Lincoln Park Zoo , the Art Institute , Cloud Gate (known as “The Bean”), or the Chicago Architecture Center .

Where to stay: Located along the Magnificent Mile, the aptly named Aloft Chicago Mag Mile makes a great, affordable home base for exploring. Plus, it’s less than a mile from Navy Pier, the Riverwalk, and Cloud Gate.

Nashville, Tennessee

Average cost: $646

Nashville is world-renowned for its music scene, hence its nickname, Music City. Catch a live performance at the Grand Ole Opry (which also offers tours) or the Ryman Auditorium, explore the Historic RCA Studio B recording studios, and visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum . Come nighttime, head to Robert’s Western World or the Bluebird Cafe to rock out with a drink in hand. For even more fun, bar-hop along Broadway, making stops at the many bars and honky-tonks. Should you need a break from the hustle and bustle, head straight to the 132-acre Centennial Park, where you’ll find a one-mile walking trail, a lake, a sunken garden, and the Parthenon , a replica of the original in Athens. Finally, no trip to Nashville is complete without some hot chicken: Get your fix at beloved haunts like Prince’s , Bolton’s , and Puckett’s .

Where to stay : The new Tempo by Hilton Nashville Downtown offers sleek rooms, a rooftop pool, and a convenient location close to Broadway. 

New York, New York

Average cost: $674

While many New Yorkers ditch the city in favor of nearby beach towns in The Hamptons , out-of-towners can soak up the sun and the warm weather from one of the Big Apple’s many parks, including Central Park , where picnicking and people-watching opportunities abound. Bryant Park offers free movie nights , yoga , and live performances. And while Manhattan is wonderful, it’s worth exploring the city’s other four boroughs. Head to Queens to catch a Mets game or explore Flushing’s Chinatown, visit Brooklyn to hit the beach and the amusement park rides at Coney Island, check out the Bronx to eat your way through Little Italy or watch the Yankees in action, and take the ferry over to Staten Island and admire lush flora in the Snug Island Culture Center and Botanical Garden .

Where to stay : We've rounded up 10 of the best affordable hotels in New York City so you can find a perfect spot that won't break the bank, like the Cambria Hotel New York — Chelsea.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Average cost: $680

The Puerto Rican capital of San Juan was previously deemed the most affordable beach vacation destination for U.S. travelers . And while the stretches of sand and crystal-clear waters here are stunning, it’s the city itself that truly stands out. In Old San Juan, travelers can visit historic sites like Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristobal ; stroll along quaint cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings; and sip cocktails at some of the Caribbean’s best bars (looking at you, La Factoría ). Additionally, the Condado neighborhood is especially popular among tourists thanks to its prime oceanfront locale and abundance of hotels and restaurants, as is Isla Verde.

Where to stay: Guests at La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort enjoy resort-style amenities like three outdoor pools, a casino, a pristine beach area, and eight bars and restaurants, including a swanky Italian eatery and a beach bar and grill. The stylish rooms and suites have a beachy-chic aesthetic and many feature ocean views.

Los Angeles, California

Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure

Average cost: $686

This sprawling SoCal city is teeming with historic attractions, beautiful beaches, scenic hiking, swanky restaurants, and some seriously incredible shopping, which means there’s something for everyone here. And you don’t have to spend a ton of money to have a good time: Trek to the world-famous Hollywood Sign, admire the sweeping city views from the Griffith Observatory, window-shop along Rodeo Drive, and check out the Hollywood Walk of Fame. You’ll also want a few hours to explore the laid-back Venice neighborhood, where you can hit the beach, stroll along the canals, go surfing, and explore Abbot Kinney Boulevard, which is dotted with bars (don’t miss The Brig , which dates back to 1952), galleries (Yiwei Gallery, which spotlights emerging Asian artists, is a favorite), and restaurants, including the oh-so-trendy Gjelina .

Where to stay: The Hoxton Downtown LA is one of several great affordable hotels in Los Angeles ; the city is also a great place to splurge with credit card or hotel loyalty points.

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6 Best Websites for Booking Cheap Flights

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

The desire to get a good deal unites practically all travelers. Whether you're looking for a cheap getaway or a luxury vacation, no one wants to spend more than necessary. When it comes to booking flights, travelers may naturally head to an airline's website. However, that's not always the best site to book flights.

Whether it's taking advantage of credit card perks, earning bonus miles or saving money, the best flight booking site can vary depending on your situation and willingness to get creative. Let's take a look at six of the best sites to book flights and when each is the best option.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

The best flight booking sites

1. google flights.

For ease, speed and features, Google Flights is arguably the best website for flight searches. Search results appear almost instantly. Filters let you narrow down to nonstop options, select a subset of airlines, limit by price or factor in the price of a bag. Similarly, you can use Google Flights filters to avoid certain airlines, multi-stop itineraries, long layovers, early flights or pretty much whatever you might want to avoid.

You can easily check flexible dates, and if you're flexible on where you go you can use the Explore map to see prices for a variety of destinations for certain dates, a certain month or anytime in the next six months.

Google Flights partners with hundreds of airlines and online travel agencies (OTAs) to pull current flight prices. That way you don't have to search each of these sites to be able to see the options. Once you select your preferred trip, Google Flights links you to the top booking options for actually booking your flight — including the airline itself and the best OTA booking options.

The downsides of Google Flights are few. One is the lack of Southwest flight prices. Although Southwest flight schedules will show in flight search results, Southwest flight prices aren't available. That's because Southwest chooses to publish flight prices only on its website.

» Learn more: Why Southwest is not on Google Flights

Another downside is that Google Flights doesn't always show the cheapest prices — particularly for international flights. That means it's worth double-checking prices on another site before booking through Google Flights.

Like Google Flights, Kayak searches hundreds of other websites and flight booking platforms to find the best deal. Kayak generally doesn't let you book flights directly. However, one benefit of Kayak is the streamlined process. Rather than having to click through several pages to confirm your selection, clicking "view deal" on the results page can take you right to the cheapest booking option.

Also, some travelers may find Kayak's flexible date search a bit easier to work with as you can see results from several days in the search results — eliminating the need to check each day's results separately.

But perhaps the most important reason to use Kayak instead of Google Flights is that it can catch better deals. For example, we found a $550 round-trip flight from Los Angeles to Barcelona using Google Flights. Kayak found a way to lower that price to just $472 round-trip — at least once you scroll past an advertisement.

Note that Kayak manages other flight search sites — including Momondo and Cheapflights — so the results may be very similar between these sister sites.

» Learn more: Is Kayak legit?

So far, we've focused on ease in flight searching, and that's going to be enough for many travelers. However, now let's add in some additional elements to consider when choosing the best flight booking site: earning rewards and saving by booking packages. Expedia excels at both of these.

Through the new One Key rewards program , travelers can earn 0.2% in OneKeyCash from flight bookings made through Expedia. That's not much, but it can stack on top of the awards you earn from the airline and those that you earn on your credit card purchase.

Even better, you'll earn credits toward One Key elite status by booking your flight through Expedia. As you climb up the tiers, you'll unlock up to 20% savings on hotels, get hotel upgrades, priority support and even price drop protection.

Plus, Expedia boasts that travelers can "save up to 30%" when bundling a hotel with a flight booking — although actual discounts are likely to vary.

» Learn more: The pros and cons of Expedia

4. Capital One Travel

For many Capital One cardholders, Capital One Travel might just be the best flight booking site. Part of this is to take advantage of cardholder benefits.

For example, Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card holders earn 5x Capital One miles when booking flights through the Capital One Travel portal. Plus, Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card holders get up to $300 off travel booked through the Capital One Travel portal each cardholder year.

» Learn more: How to maximize the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Also, Capital One Travel can help you truly get the best price for your flight. Capital One partnered with travel data company Hopper to show suggestions about when it's the best time to book.

Capital One backs up these recommendations with money. If you book a flight through Capital One Travel when Hopper recommends doing so, you'll get up to a $50 credit toward future travel if the price drops within the next 10 days.

» Learn more: How the Capital One Travel portal works

Would you be willing to book a trip as two separate tickets in order to save money? That's the idea behind Kiwi. Instead of simply searching flights from your home airport to your destination, Kiwi checks all potential options to get between A and B. That could mean taking a bus or train from your home city to another to catch a flight to your destination. Or, Kiwi might pair a low-cost domestic flight with a cheap international flight from another city to lower your total cost.

Protect your upfront travel expenses by booking with a card that has travel insurance or by purchasing a separate policy .

For example, when we priced out a round-trip flight from Phoenix to Tokyo, the cheapest option when booked as one ticket cost $1,353 round-trip — and that's with an overnight stay in Vancouver.

Pricing out the same itinerary and dates through Kiwi drops the price to just $789 round-trip. The secret? Booking this as two round-trip flights: One from Phoenix to Los Angeles on Frontier and a separate round-trip from Los Angeles to Tokyo on Zipair.

Keep in mind that there are risks with booking separate tickets to get where you want to go. If a delay or cancellation causes you to miss your connection, the second airline/bus/train company isn't obligated to honor your ticket and rebook you on the next option. So make sure to factor in all of the risks of booking travel like this.

» Learn more: When to use Kiwi for your next flight booking

6. BookWithMatrix

ITA Matrix is a very powerful and ultra-customizable search platform for finding exactly the flight itinerary you want — whether that's booking a longer layover, avoiding certain aircraft types or booking nerdy trips such as the Alaska Milk Run .

The catch: Travelers can't actually book flights through ITA Matrix. And, unlike Google Flights, ITA Matrix doesn't even link to the best flight booking site for that itinerary. Instead, travelers are left to attempt to re-create the same itinerary through another flight booking website — which can be hard in the case of certain complex itineraries.

Enter BookWithMatrix. Travelers can copy-paste their perfect itinerary from ITA Matrix into BookWithMatrix to get bookable links through the airline or select OTAs.

Alternatively, travelers have the option to install the PowerTools extension in Google Chrome .

This extension adds booking links right on the ITA Matrix itinerary page, avoiding the need to browse to another page.

Final thoughts on the best flight booking site

There's not a one-size-fits-all best website for booking flights. Instead, the best flight booking site for you is going to depend on how simple you want the process to be, whether you're willing to get creative with your booking, and even which credit cards you have.

For most travelers, the simplicity of Google Flights is going to make it the best one-stop shop for searching and booking flights. However, it's worth considering other options if you're flying internationally, want to book a flight-and-hotel package or have a Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card .

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

All the Biggest Summer Travel Deals You Can Book Right Now

Submit that pto request and get planning..

Somehow, it is already May. We're honestly not sure how it happened so quickly, but here we are. Warmer weather is already moving in across the country, and  the summer vacation season  isn't too far away either. In the famous words of the '90s adult contemporary icons Wilson Phillips, we just gotta hold on.

Yes, it's time to get those  2024 getaways  on the calendar if you haven't already, particularly if you're still eyeing a summer adventure. Heck, it's not even too early to start thinking about a fall vacation . Don't forget, with travel deals, the early bird often gets the worm, so you won't want to wait too long if you're going to take advantage of saving on your travel plans.

Historically, prices tend to increase in May and as we get nearer to the official kickoff of summer vacation: Memorial Day weekend . And while MDW is traditionally a time to snag big sales on furniture and jewelry, finding a cheap MDW flight is a bit more challenging. But don't worry, if there's a deal to be seen, Thrillist will let you know.  

The deals below should have you covered no matter what sort of getaway is most appealing—whether that's an island escape or a city adventure. We've got all sorts of cheap flights, travel, and hotel deals, with both budget-friendly and aspirational options for you to consider. There are vacation packages, train deals, and tour savings to consider. 

Throughout the month, we'll keep this post fresh so you can stay on top of all the best flight, travel, and hotel deals so you can save money when you're getting out there this month and beyond. Bookmark this page, and we promise you'll always have something good to return to.

Flight Deals Right Now

Southwest Airlines Southwest's Wanna Get Away sale has been extended until May 12. The sale offers one-way flights starting at $49. The sale fares will apply to continental US travel between May 21 and November 20, 2024, and international, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico travel between August 20 and November 20, 2024. 

JetBlue Airways JetBlue is offering one-way flights to coastal destinations like San Juan, Puerto Rico, Nassau, Bahamas, and San Diego, California, starting at just $78. The flights don't have date restrictions or book-by dates, but the low prices are subject to availability. 

La Compagnie The business-class-only airline is offering discounted flights from New York to Europe. Right now, you can find roundtrip flights starting at $2,400 to Paris, Milan, and the French Riviera. Plus, all the flights can be changed without fees, meaning you can book now and still make adjustments to your plans down the road. Learn more details here .

Frontier Airlines The budget airline's popular GoWild! all-you-can-fly pass just went on sale at a dramatic discount . Right now, Frontier is offering its one-year unlimited flight pass for $599 while supplies last. Additionally, the airline is now offering a monthly unlimited flight pass at a discounted price of $149 per month, as well as a summer unlimited flight pass for just $399 for a limited time. The pass does have some rules and limitations, including blackout periods and a requirement that you book your domestic flight the day before your trip.

Spirit Airlines The budget airline is offering up to 30% off vacation packages , allowing travelers to save significant cash when they book a flight, hotel, and/or rental car all together through the airline. One deal offers a Chicago package to Las Vegas starting at $201 per person for a three-night stay, while another three-night Detroit package to Cancun starts at $289 per person.

Etihad Airways The airline has discounted stopover flight packages right now, including 40% off two- or four-night hotel stays in Abu Dhabi hotels, one- or two-night free stopovers in selected hotels, and free accommodations for travelers with a connecting flight in Abu Dhabi. The airline's stopover program also offers discounts on restaurants and experiences. More details are available here .

Delta Air Lines Delta's Spring Sale is currently offering roundtrip flights starting at less than $200 for domestic flights, which can be found on the current flight deals page of Delta's website. Delta AmEx cardholders can now earn award flights obtained using their SkyMiles at a 15% discount through the airline's new "TakeOff 15" promotion.

Hotel & Resort Deals Right Now

Divi & Tamarijn Divi & Tamarijn's Spring in Paradise Sale offers 20% off on all-inclusive rates if you book by June 30, with no code necessary. The discount applies to both Divi Aruba and Tamarijn Aruba and is valid for travel between May 1 and December 20, 2024.

Grand Hyatt Atlanta Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Buckhead is offering guests 20% off their stay when they use the code PRIDE  on the website to book.

The Shay, Culver City The Shay is offering guests 15% off their stay when they use the code PRIDE on the website when booking between now and the end of June.

Hyatt Regency San Francisco Hyatt Regency San Francisco will be providing 10% off room bookings for June with the code PRIDE .

World of Hyatt If you book at a qualifying Thompson or Dream hotel, World of Hyatt existing and new members (it's free to join) will earn double tier World of Hyatt credits. Register before May 22, 2024, for stays through June 10, 2024 to earn the points.

Sandals Resorts The "Jamaica Calling" spring sale offers guests a free catamaran cruise on bookings of five nights or more, plus a $250 resort credit on bookings of 7 nights or more.

Beaches Resorts This spring sale offers guests a free catamaran cruise on bookings of five nights or more, plus a $250 resort credit on bookings of seven nights or more. Rates start at $249 per person per night at Beaches Ocho Rios and $349 per person per night at Beaches Negril.

Fairmont El San Juan Hotel The Stay Longer, Experience More offer at Fairmont El San Juan Hotel in San Juan, Puerto Rico offers 15% off on stays of four nights or longer. The deal will be available through May 14 and apply to bookings through December 22, 2024.

Casa Costera, Isla Verde Beach The beachfront hotel in Isla Verde, Puerto Rico is offering up to 20% off on its best available rates. The promotion applies from now until August 23, 2024.

Parguera Plaza Hotel Parguera Plaza Hotel, in La Parguera, Puerto Rico is offering a free night when you book a three-night stay.

The Junto Take advantage of the "Linger Longer" discount and receive up to 20% off the best available rates when you stay two nights or more during Memorial Day weekend. When you stay at The Junto from May 23 through May 27, you will also receive a $50 resort credit for dining or parking.

Sonesta This is Sonesta's first ever "Annual Sale" and allows Sonesta TravelPass members to receive discounted rates and Advanced Purchase options, all while earning bonusTravelPass points. Travelers can save up to 30% and have the potential to earn 6,000 TravelPass points when staying for a week or more. The booking window is between April 9 and May 21, 2024, for travel through December 2024. Use the discount code SUPERSAVINGS to get the deal.

Andaz Mexico City Condesa The luxury CDMX hotel in the historic and artsy Condesa neighborhood is offering 20% off stays booked at the property through August 2024. The hotel offers amenities like a rooftop pool, a spa, and a matcha cafe.

Manasota Key Resort From now through May 31, this Englewood, Florida resort is offering 15% off on a three-night stay or 20% on stays of four nights or more with Manasota Key Resort's Linger Longer packages. Florida residents can save 15% on stays of three nights or more from now until October 31, 2024.

Motel 6 Right now, travelers joining Motel 6's rewards program, My6, will receive 6% off their stay at all Motel 6 and Studio 6 properties. My6 members also get up to 30% off Avis car rentals, free delivery from DoorDash and Grubhub, and $30 off airfare purchased through the Cheap O Air platform.

Capital One Travel VentureX cardholders can earn a $100 "experience credit" if they stay at any of the card company's new Premier Collection of hotels and resorts. The credits can be applied to dining, spa services, and more. Room upgrades, when available, are also offered to cardholders.

Cruise Deals Right Now

MSC Cruises The cruise line is offering a major limited-time deal on its sailings, with cruises starting at $179. Right now, customers booking during the wave season period also receive up to a $400 onboard credit, an Easy-Plus drink package, Wi-Fi for up to two devices per stateroom, and kids sail for free. The deal is eligible for sailings through winter 2025.

Holland America Line The cruise line's major anniversary sale is offering up to 45% off all fares, up to $300 onboard credit, and 50% reduced deposits. Plus, you can include free third and fourth guests on select cruises. The offer ends April 30.

Princess Cruises Princess is offering up to 35% savings on cruise fares for select 2024, 2025, and 2026 sailings. The sale also includes complimentary room upgrades and an offer for third and fourth guests to sail free on select cruises. You can find Alaska cruises starting at $297, Caribbean cruises starting at $418, and Mediterranean cruises starting at $797.

Windstar Cruises Book by June 30, and you can receive a complimentary All Inclusive Fare upgrade. The upgrade will include unlimited alcohol, Wi-Fi, and all gratuities. Windstar Cruises is also offering last-minute cruise deals , which will offer discounts on cruises that are scheduled within the next month.

Azamara Cruises The cruise line is running a Pick Your Perk sale, offering travelers $1,000 that can be used for onboard credit toward shore excursions and spa days, or it can be applied toward airfare booked through Azamara if you book by May 30, 2024. The sale applies to sailings between July 1, 2024 and June 5, 2025.

Disney Cruise Line The popular cruise line is currently offering up to 25% off select sailings from a number of destinations, including Rome, Barcelona, Copenhagen, Southampton, Miami, Vancouver, and Port Canaveral.

Heritage Line This luxury cruise line is offering 20% off now through July 31. The sale is active for Lower Mekong cruises taking place June through September and for Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay cruises taking place May through September.

More Travel Deals Right Now

Amtrak Travelers can save at least 30% on Flex Fare prices on most routes nationwide during the Amtrak Summer Travel Flash Sale. Customers who book Coach and Acela Business Class seats now through Thursday, May 16, can travel from Wednesday, June 1 through Friday, August 30, 2024, with no blackout dates. Book on Amtrak.com or the Amtrak app to get a ticket with no promo code required.

Dis-Loyalty The new travel and food membership program from hotel and lifestyle brand Ennismore is offering members significant discounts on hotel stays, including 50% off deals at just-opened hotels like Hyde Ibiza, Mama Shelter Dijon, and 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis this month. Membership in the program costs $18 a month or $216 per year (with a minimum one-year commitment) and includes many additional food and travel discounts.

St. Kitts When you book at participating hotel resorts, you can enjoy up to two nights free and receive a $100 resort credit. The deal will last until September 1, 2024, and applies for travel dates between now and September 3.

Saint Lucia The popular destination is offering deals of up to 50% off hotels, resorts, tours, and excursions for guests visiting the area. The special offers can be browsed on the destination's website.

Vacasa Vacasa is offering  20% off on stays  in August and September when you book now using the promo code SPRING20. 

TourRadar Save up to 65% off tours through Europe, Africa, Latin America, Asia, North America, Australia, and New Zealand. Booking dates and discounts vary.

Costsaver The tour brand is offering up to 15% off a number of getaways booked less than four months out, including over $500 off a 28-day European Discoverer tour and almost $300 off the company's Spectacular Canyons and National Parks tour.

Cabana The camper van rental startup has a number of deals to help you save money on your next adventure right now. You can get $200 off bookings of five nights or more using the promo code EXTENDEDSTAYS , or $600 off bookings of 10 nights or more with the code EXTENDEDSTAY10 . One-way trips from select markets are available for $75/night, and teachers and first responders can both get 20% off their stay. The service is available in Seattle, LA, San Francisco, and Austin.

Missing Anything?

If you know of other travel deals that we missed, help us spread the word by emailing us at [email protected].

Looking for more travel deals?

You can head here for all the latest flight deals plus cheap things to do and savings on hotels, cruises, trains, and more to help you plan for your next trip.

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Watch CBS News

Airfares will likely be cheaper this summer — unless you're flying abroad

By Khristopher J. Brooks

May 9, 2023 / 6:05 PM EDT / MoneyWatch

Americans planning to take to the skies this summer can expect lower prices on domestic flights but pricier fares for international trips, according to travel booking app Hopper. 

The average ticket price for a flight within the U.S. will be $306, down from $376 last summer, while peaking at about $349 around the July 4 holiday, Hopper  forecast . By comparison, a ticket overseas will cost between $1,000 and $2,000 because more Americans are itching to visit foreign destinations like Rome, Seoul and Istanbul, Hopper said. 

"Many people who couldn't travel during the pandemic decided that is the one thing they really wanted to do when lockdowns ended," Clint Henderson, managing editor at travel news website The Points Guy, told CBS MoneyWatch. "People have been saving their travel dollars — and points and miles — for several years, and they are ready to spend on seeing new places. Some folks haven't seen their families in several years and they are traveling now, too."

Much pricier to fly overseas

Airfares on international flights are projected to hit their highest level since 2019, before the pandemic grounded most vacation travel, Hopper said. Tickets to Europe and Asia alone have jumped $300 compared to last summer. 

The average ticket to Europe will cost around $1,100 each, up sharply from $861 in 2019, while average prices to Asia will top $1,800 per ticket, up from $1,121 in 2019, according to Hopper. The average air ticket to Africa or the Middle East will cost around $1,454, up from $1,236 in 2019, and a trip to Australia and surrounding nations is expected to average $1,709, up from $1,128 in 2019, the app predicts.

Three reasons explain it's getting more expensive to fly overseas, said Hopper economist Hayley Berg. First, the cost of jet fuel has jumped since the pandemic, with airlines passing along some of the added cost to travelers. The cost of jet fuel this month is about $91 a barrel, compared to $15 a barrel in May 2020, according to International Air Transport Association data .

"Though fuel costs have improved considerably in the last 15 months, prices remain the highest they've been since late 2014," Berg said in a statement. "Higher fuel costs will continue to put upward pressure on airfares, especially on expensive long haul international routes."

Airlines also haven't increased seat capacity on planes despite rising demand, further pushing up prices. Finally, Berg said Americans are aching to fly overseas because 2023 marks the first full summer that international destinations will have lifted their pandemic protocols. 

Khristopher J. Brooks is a reporter for CBS MoneyWatch. He previously worked as a reporter for the Omaha World-Herald, Newsday and the Florida Times-Union. His reporting primarily focuses on the U.S. housing market, the business of sports and bankruptcy.

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The best affordable luggage: 7 great options under $150 on amazon.

Quality luggage doesn't have to break the bank.

The Best Cheap Luggage

Getty Images

Travel horror stories can make anyone feel like they need to spend the big bucks on good luggage, but that's simply not the case. While cheap suitcases might make you think of shoddy materials and personal items strewn across tarmacs or luggage carousels, the truth is today's budget-friendly luggage brands offer quality construction at an attractive price.

We've put together a list of the best luggage under $150, including both carry-on bags and checked luggage. Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, these affordable luggage options are set to become your go-to bags for every type of trip.

Best Soft-sided Carry-on: SWISSGEAR Sion 6283 21-inch Expandable Carry On Spinner Luggage

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Best Hard-sided Carry-on: Amazon Basics 20-inch Hard-side Spinner

Best soft-sided checked bag: swissgear 6283 24.5-inch expandable spinner luggage, best hard-sided checked bag: coolife luggage 28-inch expandable suitcase, best duffel bag: samsonite andante 2 32-inch wheeled duffel.

• Best Backpack: ZOMAKE Lightweight Packable Backpack 30L

Best Underseat Bag: TPRC 15-Inch Smart Under Seat Carry-On

(Note: Prices and availability for this luggage were accurate at the time this article was updated; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors.)

Courtesy of SWISSGEAR

What sets it apart: SWISSGEAR consistently earns rave reviews for its durable yet affordable luggage. This soft-sided carry-on bag, in particular, stands out with more than 18,000 reviews and a 4.4-star rating on Amazon. The bag has two exterior pockets and two interior pockets, plus a removable zippered wet bag for organization. Adjustable tie-down straps secure clothing and shoes in place. Other features include a built-in ID tag, a locking telescopic handle, multidirectional spinner wheels and multiple carry handles. This SWISSGEAR suitcase is available in a variety of colors, including an eye-catching teal.

Travelers appreciate: Recent buyers agree this bag is roomier than it looks. They also appreciate how effortlessly it rolls on most surfaces.

Price: $119.99 or less

What sets it apart:  Perfect for weekend getaways and other short trips, this hard-sided Amazon Basics spinner provides travelers with the organizational benefits of larger luggage in a compact model. The extra-thick ABS hard shell protects a fully lined interior complete with a divider, clothing straps and three zippered pockets for small items.

These features pair with the suitcase's full 180-degree opening and its ability to expand for up to 15% more packing space (but remember to check carry-on size restrictions before doing so, as this may put the suitcase outside of limits for some airlines). This hard-sided bag also has four double spinner wheels and a telescoping handle to maneuver through tight airplane aisles with ease. It comes with a one-year limited warranty.

Travelers appreciate: Adventurers have used this luggage everywhere from the rough cobblestones of Europe to the bullet trains of Japan , and there is one thing they all agree on: This hard-sided spinner moves like a dream. Recent travelers praise the durable wheels and easy glide for moving across different surfaces smooth and effortless. While the spinner isn't immune to scuffs and scratches, reviewers say the hard exterior has held up across multiple baggage handlings.

Price: $84 or less

What sets it apart: This medium-sized bag – a slightly larger version of our soft-sided carry-on pick – offers enough space for a weeklong vacation. Its pockets can help you stay organized during your travels, too: There are two exterior pockets, two internal pockets and a detachable zippered wet bag designed for toiletries. The expandable bag also has tie-down straps for securing belongings in place (an essential feature for checked luggage ), as well as a locking telescopic handle, top and side handles, and 360-degree spinner wheels.

Travelers appreciate: Travelers praise everything about this bag, from its durability to its maneuverability. They also appreciate that it comes in bright colors that have made it easier to locate at airport baggage claim.

Price: $129.99 or less

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Courtesy of Coolife

What sets it apart: While many affordable hard-sided luggage options struggle to stand up to airport baggage handling, the ABS and polycarbonate material of this spinner provides a light and durable hard shell. Added design elements like the textured scratch-resistant finish and beveled upper edge increase the bag's toughness. Built for durability and ease of use, this expandable Coolife suitcase has multidirectional silent wheels and a sturdy aluminum telescoping handle for smooth travel.

The incorporated TSA lock gives an extra level of security for personal items. The bag's interior comes fully lined with several pockets, clothing straps and a divider to ensure all of your items stay organized. This suitcase already has a large capacity, but it also offers an extra 2.5 inches of space when expanded. It comes with a two-year warranty as well.

Travelers appreciate: Recent travelers love this suitcase's durable wheels and ease of movement, with many commenting on how easily it rolls across different surfaces. They also appreciate the spacious storage and built-in lock, as well as the beautiful exterior and six color options that make it easy to identify at baggage claim. The Caribbean blue, in particular, is even more striking than it looks in photos.

Courtesy of Samsonite

What sets it apart: Designed to maximize convenience and durability, the Samsonite Andante 2 takes duffel bags to the next level. This checked bag is constructed with water-resistant fabric, a locking pull handle, multiple exterior grab handles, corner protectors and bumper runners. There's a separate water-resistant pocket at the end of the duffel to pack your walking shoes or wet items, so your clothes and electronics stay dry.

The main portion of the bag is broken into two parts, with a drop-bottom compartment that's perfect for packing cubes and allows for extra organization when packing. The drop-bottom compartment is accessed by a 180-degree zip opening, and the U-shaped main compartment has a large opening for easy packability. An extra bonus of using this checked duffel bag is the lightweight design, which weighs in at slightly less than 8 pounds despite having wheels.

Travelers appreciate: Recent packers love the spacious compartments and durable materials of the Samsonite Andante 2. As a testament to its quality, travelers have put this bag through the wringer with heavy loads and multiple destinations, and still say the bag barely looks used by the end. They also praise the reliability and affordability of this bag, but some warn it doesn't stand upright easily when filled, a trait common among rolling duffel bags .

Best Backpack: ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack 20L

What sets it apart: Not only does this backpack work well as a personal item for air travel, but it doubles as a day bag you can use at your destination – think cruise excursions, city trips and more. It's incredibly lightweight and foldable, so you can also stuff it in other luggage when not in use. The backpack has one front zippered pocket and two side mesh pockets for a water bottle and other travel essentials. Available in a variety of colors as well as other sizes , it is both water- and tear-resistant.

Travelers appreciate: Reviewers appreciate how lightweight and versatile this backpack is, as well as how much it can store.

Price: $21.99 or less

What sets it apart: The ultimate underseat bag , this soft-sided carry-on features a USB port for charging devices on the go. It also has a variety of external pockets, including a side pocket that allows for quick access to the essentials, and there are three additional pockets inside. This bag is available in a few different colors, including black and purple.

Travelers appreciate: Buyers rave about this bag, noting it works well as a personal item. While it fits under the seat on most planes, some recent reviewers note that Frontier has made them stow it in the overhead bin.

Price: $53 or less

Frequently Asked Questions

The following brands offer quality luggage at an affordable price. These brands also offer savings promotions throughout the year:

• Amazon Basics
• American Tourister

The difference comes down to the cost of materials. For example, a hard-sided suitcase like The Carry-On by Away is more expensive because it's made of polycarbonate, a type of plastic that is virtually indestructible. Polycarbonate is more costly than materials like ABS, which is used in the Amazon Basics Hardside Carry-On .

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Erin Vasta loved traveling as a student and, as a result, figured out quickly that not all budget luggage brands are created equal. Dealing with everything from broken wheels to stuck zippers, she's had to improvise her way through a lot of luggage disasters. Those experiences helped her figure out what to look for when purchasing affordable luggage. Vasta hopes this article will help other budget travelers avoid her early mistakes.

Amanda Norcross regularly tests luggage and used her personal experience as well as consumer ratings and reviews to choose the best cheap luggage.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Weekender Bags
• Hard vs. Soft Luggage: How to Choose
• The Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S.
• The Cheapest Travel Insurance Companies Worth the Cost

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