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Cheap Holiday Ideas: 8 Budget Vacation Deals

While many of us dream of traveling the world (or at least taking a few months off from work in pursuit of adventure), it’s not always feasible — even for those with the best of intentions. A lot of things can get in the way.

I frequently talk about long-term travel and round-the-world trips , but I know that realistically, not everyone can take those kinds of trips — or wants to. I don’t think traveling the world as a digital nomad is hard , but I also know that what I do isn’t for everyone.

Some people just want to go on a cheap vacation for a few weeks. Not everyone has the time or interest in taking an extended trip.

And that’s perfectly ok!

So, what do you do when you only have a short amount of time and a limited budget? What are some budget vacation ideas that  aren’t about traveling the world?

Even if you don’t want to backpack Cambodia for three months or walk the Camino de Santiago , there are many ways to get on the road and see the world without breaking the bank!

Here are eight cheap travel ideas if you are cash-strapped and/or time-poor:

Table of Contents

1. Be a Local Tourist

2. travel regionally, 3. go to national (and regional) parks, 4. book a last-minute cruise (or book far in advance), 5. think outside the box, 6. book a last-minute tour, 7. become a house sitter, 8. grab a cheap flight, want more cheap vacation ideas.

We’re all guilty of this. It took me five years to see the Jim Thompson House in Bangkok (even after living there), and I’ve still never been to Bunker Hill in Boston despite spending the first 24 years of my life there.

We always put it off until tomorrow , because when we live in a city, we think there is always a tomorrow.

We get so caught up in our daily lives we forget that we can have a cheap vacation in our own city. We don’t have to go anywhere!

If you’re short on time and money, there’s no better way to spend some free time than to wander your own city. No matter what its size, it has a number of wonders that you’ve never seen or even known about because you just haven’t explored it like you would somewhere far-flung and “exotic.”

Explore your city the way you would explore it if it were half a world away. Be a traveler in your own town and look at it with new eyes. You might just be surprised!

Check and see what unique activities you can do that you wouldn’t do otherwise. To see what fun activities are available near you, check out Get Your Guide .

EatWith can also be found in cities all around the world, offering unique, locally-created culinary experiences. You’ll get to try new food and meet new people — all while staying in your own backyard!

Additionally, check and see if there are any walking or cycling tour companies in your city (or nearby cities). Take Walks runs fun, detailed, and insightful tours in cities all around the world. I always book a tour with them when I want to get beneath the surface of a destination!

Moreover, if you live in a large city, be sure to go to your local tourism office and get a city tourism pass. These cards allow you to see a wide range of local attractions for free or reduced prices and can be your way to see your local sites on a budget. They aren’t just for outsiders!

Important Tip: When you become a local tourist, check out of your house and into a hotel, hostel, or guesthouse. It’s important to get out of your familiar environment because if you stay home, you’ll find something to do around the house and create excuses for why you can’t sightsee.

To find accommodation, Booking.com is the best place to start. It has an easy-to-use interface and generous cancellation policies should you change your mind.

Moving to a different location can help give you that feeling of adventure, excitement, and unfamiliarity.

LEARN MORE :

• Staycations: 5 Ways to Embrace Your Next Holiday at Home
• How to Find Cheap Accommodation in 7 Easy Steps
• My Favorite Hostels Around the World
• How to Find the Perfect Airbnb

But I could say the same thing as my Aussie friends.

I grew up in Boston , and from there, I could road-trip New England and visit New Hampshire, the woods of Maine, the bed-and-breakfasts of the Berkshires, or the farms of Vermont. New York was a four-hour car ride from home.

How often did I do that? Not often enough!

Exploring your own region is an underrated and often overlooked aspect of travel. It gets the occasional lip service in magazines, but driving across the United States made me realize how much our own countries have to offer us and how often we overlook that for some foreign place.

There’s something special about being a stranger in your homeland and realizing you really don’t know as much about it as you thought.

We think because we’re born in a place we understand it but every country has regional differences that make it unique and, unless we travel to see and experience them, we’ll never fully understand the place we call home.

Driving across the US taught me a lot about this . It gave me a deep appreciation for the country, the people, and the diversity within its borders. It broke down stereotypes and misconceptions I had about the different regions in the US.

My time exploring my own backyard was just as important to my growth as any trip to a foreign country.

If you’re on a limited budget, can’t afford a flight or a trip to exotic lands, or just want to do something different, don’t forget that you can always travel around your own country. It can be just as powerful as going abroad.

Budget-friendly bus companies like FlixBus can help you travel your region on the cheap. They have routes around Europe and the US, with tickets starting at just $5 USD!

• The Great American Road Trip: A 4 Month Itinerary
• How to Road Trip Across the USA on a Budget
• A 21-Day Road Trip Itinerary Around the Deep South
• A 7-Day Southern California Road Trip Itinerary

In many countries, particularly in Europe (especially Scandinavia), you can camp on public lands for free. In the United States, you can camp on undeveloped BLM (Bureau of Land Management) lands for free, provided the spot you choose is a sufficient distance from established campgrounds and you follow local restrictions.

Additionally, you go camping stocked with all your own supplies and accommodation (i.e., a tent), so you don’t have to worry about spending lots of extra money once you have the gear. Your food bill can be whatever you spend on groceries and nothing more. Just be sure to leave no trace of your stay at your campsite and pack out anything you brought with you.

You don’t need to love camping to spend time in the national parks, either. Personally, I hate camping. I’m not the camp-in-a-tent kind of guy; I need toilets, beds, and hot water. Luckily, many parks provide cabins for rent. While hiking the Grand Canyon, I stayed at a national park lodge at the bottom. I had a room in a dormitory, but for a few nights, it was the cheap accommodation I needed.

And while national parks are impressive, state or provincial parks can be just as spectacular, but with fewer crowds, and easier to access. There’s almost always a park nearby and spending a few days with nature is not only good for your wallet but also good for your mental health.

Looking for a more unique experience? Campspace is a website that lets people camp in someone’s backyard, garden, parked camper, or private land for a small fee. It’s like Airbnb but for unique camping spots.

Want to do a mini road trip around your region? Use RVShare to rent an RV from a local for cheap!

And if you’re looking to rent a car, use Discover Cars to find the best rental car prices.

• Hiking the Grand Canyon
• The Girl’s Guide to Hiking Solo
• How to Plan a Successful RV Trip

But, if you’re the last passenger running onto that ship, you can find some sweet deals.

Cruise lines always offer incredible last-minute deals. No cruise company wants to leave with half the cabins empty. If you wait until a few weeks before departure, you can usually find some really amazing deals as cruise lines scramble to find passengers. Plus, cruise operators always throw in some onboard amenities, free upgrades, and cash vouchers to sweeten the deal.

The website CruiseSheet often has cruises as low as $50 per day! (It’s the best cruise booking website in the world!)

Conversely, if you book over a year in advance, cruise lines also offer amazing low fares for early birds.

Cruises are the one form of travel for which I recommend visiting a travel agent if you’re part of a big group. They have wonderful working relationships with the operators and can score better packages than booking online.

After you book, keep an eye out on prices, because if they drop, you can often call your travel agent or the cruise company itself to get a partial refund or vouchers to use for dining and alcohol on the boat.

The cruise industry was drastically impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Most cruise lines lost billions of dollars, which means there are some amazing deals out there if you’re looking to plan a cruise.

That said, lots of passengers ended up stuck in quarantine on cruise ships as well. Cruise ships, while fun, can easily turn into floating petri dishes, so make sure if you book a cruise that you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers cruises in case you get sick.

• How to Find a Cheap Cruise
• The Best Cruise Travel Insurance
• The 20 Best Tropical Islands in the World

The list goes on and on. There are countless cheap alternatives and budget destinations around the world!

Travel counter to the prevailing trend.

Zig when everyone zags.

If people are going in the summer, you go in the spring or winter. Skip the popular destinations and head off the beaten path a bit.

Contrarian travel will save you a bundle of money. It’s like reverse commuting. While others heading into the city in the morning for work are stuck in traffic, you breeze the opposite way hassle-free. The same is true for travel.

The more you are a contrarian in where — and when — you go, the better off your wallet will be. Plus, you’ll enjoy destinations more because there will be fewer crowds. No one loves a crowd!

LEARN MORE : 

• 10 Destinations to Visit on a Budget
• Cheap Places to Visit on the US Dollar

Why are tours so cheap last-minute? Well, think about how people plan vacations. You get the time off work, you book your vacation, you buy your flight, and you go. Since people pre-book, prices are higher in advance because these companies understand booking patterns and then price accordingly.

As departure time nears, companies know people aren’t likely to turn up and book on departure day, so they sweeten the price to increase bookings. So take the time off work, wait until the week before, see what’s cheap, and then go.

My favorite company, Intrepid Travel , often offers 15–30% discounts on last-minute tours.

• How to Choose the Perfect Tour Company
• The Best Tour Companies in Europe
• The Best Tour Companies in Costa Rica

A way around that is to stay somewhere for free.

While I like Couchsurfing , it’s hard to do that for two weeks without annoying your host. A unique way to overcome this is to housesit for someone while they are on vacation. You get free accommodation, a kitchen to cook in, and the chance to explore a destination in depth. It’s a pretty unique way to travel and one that I know a lot of world travelers take advantage of. You can even do this in your own region too, to cut down on transportation costs.

The best way to secure housesitting gigs is to build up your portfolio of reviews on a site like Trusted Housesitters by starting small. Find opportunities near you so secure a few reviews before you start competing for housesitting gigs in popular places like NYC or Paris (since those are more competitive). If you’re willing to do housesits in “less popular” destinations you can easily find opportunities.

• How to Become a Housesitter
• How to Start House Sitting

With those sites, you can type in “(the closest airport to you)” for your departure city and “everywhere” for your destination. Then a list of the cheapest flights appears in front of your very eyes, so you can choose where to go within your budget. This is how I decide where to go when I don’t have a specific place in mind. It’s a great tool!

The website Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) is another great way to find rock bottom flight prices. They scour the web daily and send the cheap flights they find directly to your inbox, saving you hundreds of dollars – as well as the time spent to find those deals!

The key to finding the best deals is to be flexible — with either your dates or your destination (but ideally both). The more flexible you are, the more likely it is that you’ll be able to snag a great deal.

• The Ultimate Guide to Finding a Cheap Flight
• Going (Scott’s Cheap Flights) Review
• How to Buy A Round-The-World Ticket

Not everyone can jump overseas at the drop of a hat or spend six months backpacking around Europe or Asia . A fancy vacation to Mexico may be out of your reach.

But while you might not have a lot of time or money, there’s more than one way to see the world.

After all, travel is simply the art of going somewhere new and different and exploring everything the place has to offer. It doesn’t matter if you have two days, two weeks, or two months. Use these cheap vacation ideas and go explore on a budget. You might just be surprised what you discover.  

Here are a few more posts that can help you plan an epic trip without breaking the bank:

• Ten Destinations Under $50
• 10 Best Places to Travel on a Budget
• The Ultimate Guide to Traveling When You Have No Money
• How to Travel the World on $50 A Day

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and 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:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.

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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50 Affordable Vacations to Add to Your Bucket List

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Must-See Destinations

Oh, the places you'd go — if you could. While most people have exotic locales on their bucket lists , there are also many places in the United States and abroad that are just as enticing but won't cost your retirement kitty. Here are some ideas for where to take a memorable vacation and still be able to afford to travel in your golden years . The ongoing COVID rollercoaster means travel still isn't as carefree as it was before, so be sure to double-check travel restrictions for all destinations and plan more carefully than ever. 

Related: Watch Out for These Tourist Traps in All 50 States

Oaxaca, Mexico

Recognized as the culinary capital of Mexico, Oaxaca is irresistible to anyone interested in food and drink. It's the birthplace of mezcal, the agave-based ancestor of tequila, and mole, the family of rich sauces found throughout the country. This bustling, bohemian city has cobblestone streets, colonial charm, and low prices. At Las Brisas Huatulco, an all-inclusive resort with its own coral reef and myriad other amenities, rates start at less than $140 a night. Other accommodations can be found for under $30 a night on Airbnb and Vrbo. 

Related: 15 Memorable Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico's Culinary Capital

NASCAR's Oldest Track

Martinsville Speedway is a must-see destination for car lovers , but there's more to see in this quaint, historic town. All but one of the museums are free, and the Smithsonian-affiliated Virginia Museum of Natural History is $10 for adults and $5 for seniors and kids 3 and older. Outdoor recreation is cheap and plentiful, and there's a free loaner bike program. Hotels range from around $60 to $150 a night, although rates can be higher during NASCAR weekends.

Related:   From Bootleggers to Checkered Flags: The History of NASCAR

Northern Lights, Alaska

Fairbanks, Alaska , is situated in the auroral oval, about 200 miles from the Arctic Circle, making this cold city a hot spot for travelers who want to see the Northern Lights. City officials recommend at least a three-day stay in fall, winter, or early spring for an 80% chance of successful viewing. Area hotels offer Northern Lights wake-up calls, but visitors can opt for a more quintessentially Alaskan experience such as a cabin stay or dogsled trip, too. 

Related: Best Places to See the Northern Lights on a Budget

Getting to Hanoi, the architecturally diverse city sometimes called the Paris of the East, can be pricey — with many flights topping $1,000 from Los Angeles. Even taking that expense into consideration, a Vietnamese vacation can be remarkably cheap. Bahn mi sandwiches are less than $2, Vietnamese coffee is $1, and 4-star hotels can be as low as $60 a night.

For more great travel guides and vacation tips, please sign up for our free newsletters .

A wave of new and renovated resorts have attracted many affluent visitors to Bermuda. An affordable and stress-free way to see the pink-sand beaches is to take a cruise to the island nation. For instance, a 7-night sailing from Boston aboard Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Pearl  starts at $688 , or just under $100 a night.

Angkor, Cambodia

Once the capital of the Khmer Empire, Angkor is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and includes the famous Angkor Wat, which dates back to the 12th century. Despite being rich in history, Cambodia is inexpensive , with a three-day pass to see the temples costing about $62 and most meals costing less than $3. Medium-range hotels start around $12 a night in the Siem Reap area.

Emerald Coast, Florida

From popular spring break destinations such as Panama City Beach to under-the-radar locales such as Navarre Beach, Florida's Emerald Coast offers bargains and beautiful scenery. Destin is a top beach destination  with sugar-white sand, and "The Truman Show" put the pristine, almost bizarrely perfect beach community of Seaside solidly on the tourist map.

Related: Best East Coast Beaches

Wamego, Kansas

Ever since "The Wizard of Oz," there's been curiosity about Kansas. Head to Dorothy's home state to visit the Oz Museum  in Wamego, dedicated to artifacts from the books and film, and hit the Oz Winery next door. The town also holds an annual OZtoberFest. If that's not your thing, head to nearby Manhattan, home of Kansas State University and some of the best microbreweries in the Midwest (the Tallgrass Taphouse is a good place to start).

Related: 50 Iconic Movie Locations Around the World

Poás Volcano National Park, Costa Rica

The main crater of this active volcano is one of the largest in the world, and it's definitely worth a hike to the rim. While getting to Costa Rica takes a pricey plane ticket, food is inexpensive and public transportation plentiful. A budget of $45 to $80 a day can accommodate thrifty travelers looking to explore this popular Central American destination . Visit during the cheaper rainy season from May to November if getting wet isn't a deterrent. 

Related: The World's Most Beautiful Volcanoes

Gila Cliff Dwellings, New Mexico

The astounding cliff dwellings of the Mogollon people date back to the 1200s and are a national monument  thanks to President Theodore Roosevelt, who had them protected in 1907. The ruins are located on 553 acres, and guided and self-guided tours of the mysterious, abandoned dwellings are available. There's camping and also hot springs nearby. 

Related: Incredible Photos of Ancient Ruins Across North America

Michigan's Upper Peninsula

Lonely Planet once named the Upper Peninsula of Michigan one of the world's best value destinations. Marquette is where much of the action is; Copper Harbor is known for mountain biking trails; and shipwrecks off the coast entice divers. Check out nearby Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore or venture to Isle Royale National Park to find lighthouses, dramatic stone cliffs, waterfalls, and more. Hotel rooms can go for less than $85 a night depending on the season.

Related: Don't Miss 19 of America's Most Underrated National Parks

Barcelona, Spain

With a little hunting, travelers can find affordable flights to Barcelona for less than $300 from New York, for example. This unrivaled spot for history, culture, architecture, and food holds bargains, too. The first Sunday of the month all museums are free, and there’s a light rail line to the beach. Hostels in the central Eixample neighborhood can cost less than $30 a night, and tapas fans will find many bars serving small portions for less than $3.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Although airfare to Peru can be pricey, the rest of the trip won't be — and a visit to this historic citadel is mind-blowing. The trip requires time to acclimate to the altitude and an entrance ticket for about $45 to see the grounds. After closing the site in March 2020, the Peruvian government has reopened Machu Picchu with new measures to limiting the number of tourists .  

Helicopter Ride, Faroe Islands

The little-known islands halfway between Scotland and Ireland are lush, green, and isolated — getting there is expensive. But for those who've always wanted to ride in a helicopter, it may be worth it. The government subsidizes helicopter travel, which means a trip between islands costs about $20.  Tourists are encouraged to take a return ferry, though.

Grand Ole Opry, Nashville, Tennessee

Country music's biggest stage has been launching careers since 1925, when the Grand Ole Opry began as a humble radio show. Fans can still listen on the radio, but seeing a show in person is a bucket-list-worthy experience. Most performances showcase at least eight country artists — a mix of Opry members and guests ranging from rising new acts to established stars. Consider sticking around after the show for a behind-the-scenes tour.

Related:   36 Bucket-List Destinations for Music Lovers

Porto, Portugal

Enjoy the Mediterranean vibe, architecture, and culture in Porto, Portugal, a coastal city best known for port wine. Hotels can cost less than $50 a night. "The historic city of Porto is a must-see," said Dominique Scarlett, former chief editor of TravelPirates. "Try to go between March and May or September or October, when prices are lowest."

Maine Huts & Trails

Near the rustic ski town of Kingfield is a unique system of wood-framed, cedar-sided "huts"  connected by trails. Visitors can hike, bike, ski, snowshoe, or even paddle between the secluded retreats. All-inclusive pricing starts around $95 a person and includes communal lodging and three meals a day, although prices and service vary by season.

Athens, Greece

Athens, home of the Acropolis and the National Archaeological Museum, is more affordable than the Greek islands, and an enduring fiscal crisis has kept costs low throughout Greece. Hotels given 4 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor can be found for less than $70 a night, and great food is everywhere. "Greece is the perfect combination of classy and affordable," said Scarlett, who adds that November is an ideal, less crowded time to go.

Mexican Cruise

Taking a cruise doesn't have to be expensive if you're sailing to Mexico  from Southern California. Seven-night cruises starting under $300 a person travel to places such as Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta, offering a chance to relax on board and still see the many sights at the ports of call.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

A flight from Los Angeles can start at less than $500, and it's easy to stick to a budget in Malaysia. Reviews on TripAdvisor give high marks to hotels that cost less than $30 a night, and the world-renowned street food is also inexpensive. Be sure to see the Thean Hou Temple and walk around the Petronas Towers, one of the world's tallest buildings.

Disney World

Who doesn't want to go to Disney World at least once? There's no cheap way to get into "the happiest place on Earth." Still, there are ways to keep costs down , such as restricting travel to weekdays during the offseason. Rates at the least expensive Disney resort, Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground, start at $66 for campsites. 

Related: Disney Bucket List: 16 Things You Don't Want to Miss

Mount Washington, New Hampshire

The highest peak in the Northeast, New Hampshire's Mount Washington is infamous for its weather extremes. The mountain regularly sees hurricane-force gusts, and below-zero temperatures are possible in late fall, winter, and spring. Guided weather station tours  (currently on hold until summer) let visitors see how scientists live and work on the mountain. There are also a multitude of ski resorts within driving distance.  

While Thailand has become an increasingly popular travel destination, it's still one of the best travel values, said Ivy Chou, former marketing director at DealsPlus. "With great sightseeing, gorgeous beaches, and a unique culture, the Thai people show more than 20 million visitors a good time by providing a wide range of experiences. Enjoy $7 massages, $3 pad Thai meals, and 5-star hotels for $80 or less."

Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Bolivia is more about natural beauty and native culture than touristy gloss. Beyond the flight and the visa ($160), nearly everything is inexpensive. Be sure to explore Salar de Uyuni, the world's largest salt flat. Budget hotels in La Paz with good reviews cost less than $40 a night. It's cheapest to go between July and August, when it's winter below the equator — but freezing on the flats. Note that the U.S. State Department currently has  a level 3 travel advisory  for Bolivia, so save this trip for a later date.

The Willis Tower (perhaps better known by its former name, the Sears Tower) is the nation's second-tallest building , with sweeping views of Chicago and Lake Michigan from the Skydeck on the 103rd floor. Brave visitors can check out the Ledge, glass-bottom boxes that offer a hair-raising view 1,353 feet down to the ground below. The city is loaded with cheap eats , and flight and hotel prices tend to track the average temperatures.

Swimming With Whale Sharks, Honduras

While there are several places in the world where divers can swim alongside one of the largest fish in the sea, Utila is the best. Not only does it have year-round whale shark research centers, it's also cheap (read: hostels, not luxury hotels). The Underwater Vision dive center includes accommodation with its courses, which start around $100.

Great Pyramids, Egypt

The U.S. State Department still has a level 3 travel advisory  in place for Egypt. But the Egyptian government maintains a strong security presence near tourist sites such as the Great Pyramids of Giza. For those willing to take their chances, hotel rooms can be found for less than $40 a night. Those with time to venture beyond Cairo and Giza can explore the other ancient sites along the Nile.

Quito, Ecuador

Ecuador appears on many bucket lists in the guise of the Galápagos Islands, but there's much more to see that's much more affordable. The capital of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has retained much of its Baroque architecture and cultural charm. Tourists flock to a monument marking the equator (although the latitude is apparently a bit off ). A complete lunch runs less than $5, and budget hotel rooms can cost $25 a night or less.

California Wine Country

If a wine country vacation would make your bucket list but Napa is too pricey, go next door to Sonoma County. The wines made there stand up to some of the best anywhere , and the food is just as appealing. Affordable lodging options include the Sonoma Creek Inn, El Pueblo Inn, and Best Western. Farther south, the quaint, Danish-style village of Solvang, in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley, is home to the Rideau and Rusack vineyards, along with charming hotels that charge less than $125 a night for a room.

Related: Where to Travel Abroad Without Leaving the Country

Floating B&B, St. Paul, Minnesota

The Covington Inn  is a former towboat with just four guestrooms that sits on the Mississippi River with a view of the downtown skyline. Winter rates start at $145 a night, and each room has a working fireplace. While in St. Paul , check out freebies such as Como Park Zoo, Harriet Island, and the Cathedral of St. Paul.

Related:   Cool Floating Cabins You Can Rent

Panama Canal

The legendary canal connecting the Atlantic and Pacific brings many travelers to Panama City. After taking a canal tour, take in the sights in the 17th-century Casco Viejo district and visit the nearby rainforest. Budget accommodations can be found for around $70 a night or less.

Related: Romantic Cruise Deals for Less Than $150 a Night

New Orleans

The Big Easy is famous for beignets, voodoo shops, and jazz — not to mention Mardi Gras. Like many of the city’s attractions, strolling the French Quarter is free, as are self-guided tours of the city's famous above-ground cemeteries and the sculpture garden outside the New Orleans Museum of Art. Authentic Cajun cuisine , including po' boys and gumbo, is also inexpensive. Prices rise the weekend before Fat Tuesday, which falls on March 1 this year, but New Orleans' biggest party is worthy of any bucket list.

Related: Best Cheap or Free Things to Do in New Orleans

This wild, sparsely populated region at the tip of South America is brimming with rare animals, exotic birds, and stunning scenery. To save money getting there, consider traveling to Chile instead of Argentina. Bunking in a dorm in Bariloche or El Chaltén, Argentina, costs about $15 a night. Buying your own food instead of eating at restaurants is also doable.

Related:  14 Under-the-Radar Destinations in Latin America

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in New Mexico (Oct. 1-9, 2022) is the world's largest balloon festival and the largest international event of any kind in the nation. More than 500 balloons lift off from the launch field at Balloon Fiesta Park, which is the size of 54 football fields. From humble beginnings with just 13 balloons in 1972, Balloon Fiesta now claims to be the most photographed event on Earth.

Related:  The One Thing You Must Do in Every State

The glitz and glamour of the Strip is the main draw for many people venturing to Las Vegas — but it can be expensive. Consider staying downtown to indulge in the retro cool of what Vegas used to be . Hotel rooms can be as cheap as $65 a night, and the Strip's just a short drive away. There are many free attractions in Sin City , as well. 

Related:    20 Rat Pack Haunts You Can Still Visit in Las Vegas and Beyond  

Oregon Coast

The Pacific coast of Oregon, along Highway 101, is a road trip worthy of any bucket list. Stop off at sights such as the famous Cannon Beach and Thor's Well at Cape Perpetua, which appears to be a bottomless sinkhole in the ocean (although speculation says it's only about 20 feet deep). At the south end, Gold Beach's Pacific Reef Hotel has beach access and starts at $99 a night. 

Related: Best West Coast Beaches

San Francisco

There are some surprisingly cheap attractions in San Francisco . Catch part of a Giants game for free from the waterfront promenade; tour the Mission District's street murals; walk across the Golden Gate Bridge for a panoramic view of the city; and make faces at the sea lions at Pier 39. In the fall , the tourist rush slows, the fog lifts, and hotel rates drop.  

Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon welcomes millions of visitors each year. Travelers who can tear their eyes from the astounding daytime scenery  will find another treat at night. The Grand Canyon is a top spot for stargazing, because there's so little air and light pollution. The park hosts weekly ranger-led star-viewing sessions and an annual weeklong Star Party  every June (June 18-25, 2022). While visiting, check out the free Kolb Studio art exhibits and be sure to walk the Rim Trail near the South Rim visitor center. Camping prices start at $18 a night per vehicle. 

Budapest, Hungary

Known for its sparkling spas, Roman ruins, and stunning architecture, Budapest is a jewel of Eastern Europe. While prices have gone up since tourists discovered it, hotel rooms can be found for less than $50. Visit in spring, when prices are lower and crowds are thinner.

From Chicago to California, Route 66 has been replaced in segments by the newer Interstate Highway System, but enthusiasts can still navigate many of the original 2,448 miles. The route is littered with old hotels and roadside attractions from when the highway was at its peak. Seligman, Arizona, has 445 residents and was an inspiration for the 2006 Pixar film "Cars." The Harvey House Railroad Depot in Barstow, California, houses the free Route 66 Mother Road Museum.

Related:   Route 66: Then and Now

Serchio Valley, Italy

Tuscany has become a bucket list cliché, but a little over an hour from Florence and Pisa, the Serchio Valley is a quiet, peaceful Tuscan retreat without a slew of tourists. Take a scenic hike in Parco dell'Orecchiella or go spelunking at the Grotta del Vento, a wind cave that descends more than 7,000 feet. Bike or walk around the medieval walls of nearby Lucca. Because this is not a tourism center, hotels are limited, but vacation rentals can cost less than $100 a night.

This laid-back beach town is rich in living history, from a 91-year-old wooden roller coaster at Belmont Park to the USS Midway, an aircraft-carrier-turned-museum. For an unforgettable outing, consider catching a spiny lobster . Get a lobster report card October through March for around $10.80 (a one-day fishing license is an additional $17.54). Kids aren't interested? Visit in October for Kids Free San Diego Month  to get deals on local museums and theme parks.

Rothko Chapel, Houston

One thing Houston has is style, and the most stylish thing in the city is the Rothko Chapel . Both modern art and a sanctuary, the chapel designed by Mark Rothko has been called one of the world's most peaceful and powerful destinations by National Geographic. Stop by for a tour, a concert, a symposium, or even tai chi by the reflecting pool.

The Trump administration imposed new restrictions in 2017  on Americans visiting Cuba, then cracked down further in 2018. Most American visitors are again required to travel as part of heavily regulated, organized tour groups run by U.S. companies under “support for the Cuban people” rules that play up cultural activities and cut back on leisure activities. President Joe Biden has promised to lift the restrictions, but that has yet to happen. Still, a trip to Cuba is an opportunity to absorb the country's art, food, and culture and take a step back in time.

A traveler can get by on less than $20 a day here, or live like a sheik for $40 a day and enjoy a midrange hotel, three meals, and a few items from a spice market. Visitors should consider bringing a little extra money to spend on camping in the Sahara Desert, an adventure no one will forget. It's cheapest to go between October and December.

Yellowstone National Park

The first national park is still one of the best , and visitors to Yellowstone will find much more to see than iconic Old Faithful. Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is a prime spot for hiking, while geothermal wonders abound in the Mammoth Hot Springs and Norris Geyser Basin areas. Hayden Valley offers dazzling views of wildlife, including elk, bison, and grizzlies. To avoid the crowds and save on accommodations, skip summertime and go in spring or fall.

Related:  25 Bucket-List Places to Take Your Kids

Washington, D.C.

The nation’s capital is one of the most tourist-friendly cities in the United States. Visitors will find year-round free entrance  to historical monuments and museums, including the 19 that make up the Smithsonian Institution (the National Zoo is one). It takes some planning, but even visiting the White House is free, though tours are currently suspended. Pass on the downtown hotels, where rates are high, and opt for those on the periphery. Use the Metro to get around and save money on lodging and parking.

Santa Barbara, California

While this beach town  has a reputation for high-end luxury, stick to a budget by focusing on the city's parks, botanical gardens, and beach. Walk or bike the boardwalk and stroll legendary State Street, where great food and drinks can be found at reasonable prices. The Museum of Contemporary Art is free, and other museums offer free days. Seek out budget hotel options such as Castillo Inn at the Beach and the Franciscan Inn.

Florida Caverns State Park

As one of the only state parks with dry caverns and the only cave sites in the state to offer tours to the public, this rare and memorable state park  is worth adding to any bucket list. Formations of limestone stalactites are both awe-inspiring and spooky, and camping is available on the grounds. Tours are offered year-round (except on Thanksgiving and Christmas).

Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

Even non-bikers will appreciate the spectacle of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally , held every August. Despite the ongoing pandemic, it brought an estimated 555,000 people last year to Sturgis, a town of just over 6,600 in the Black Hills. Major draws include concerts, races, food vendors, and motorcycle merchandise galore — not to mention some of the best people-watching west of the Mississippi. Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and Badlands National Park are easy, budget-friendly side trips. Hotel rates do rise during the rally. But staying in a rental house with multiple bedrooms and splitting the costs with friends can make this unforgettable trip affordable, as well, perhaps after COVID dissipates. 

Related: 16 Epic Motorcycle Rides Across America We Can't Wait to Take

10 Cheap Solo Travel Destinations For Those On A Single Budget

Solo travel doesn't have to break the bank. Check out these cheap destinations for solo travel that are perfect for world wanderers on a budget.

• Solo travelers can find safe and affordable destinations for their adventures. Passau, Germany, Ljubljana, Slovenia, and Krakow, Poland are great options.
• Marrakech, Morocco, Buenos Aires, Argentina, and Seville, Spain offer budget-friendly experiences with vibrant cultures and attractions.
• Machu Picchu in Peru, Coron in the Philippines, and Phnom Penh in Cambodia provide unique and inexpensive opportunities for solo travelers.

The idea of solo travel may have been unusual a decade ago. Today, it is more popular than ever; and even encouraged! Traveling around the world alone can sound daunting, but it can also turn out to be the most eye-opening and thrilling adventure. Solo travelers have the freedom to explore the world and their innermost selves which is an incredible experience. But the freedom and adventure also come with costs and managing a budget.

There are plenty of safe and affordable destinations for solo travelers out there. The key is finding the ones that align with travelers' budgets and can give the most bang for their buck. Here is a broken-down list of some of the cheapest travel destinations for solo travelers on a tight budget and their average cost.

Solo South America: What Should You Know About Traveling Alone Through The Continent

10 passau, germany.

Western Europe may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about budget solo travel destinations, but there are a few hidden gems that are perfect for backpackers and solo travelers. Passau, Germany is one of them.

Located directly on the German and Austrian border, Passau is a Bavarian city with heavy Italian influences. Passau has a great number of free activities and cheap eats. Travelers can explore Dom St. Stephan, Passau's Old Town, and walk along the Danube, Inn, and Ilz Rivers without having to spend a dime!

• Average cost: $63 per day
• Budget-friendly activities: "Three Rivers" Boat Cruise , Dom St. Stephan, Innpromenade, Old Bishop's Residence
• Best time to visit: March-May and October-November

9 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Another hidden gem located in Europe, Ljubljana, Slovenia is a must-visit for solo travelers who love the blend of colorful city life and the adventurous outdoors. Ljubljana is considered an extremely safe city to travel to (as is the rest of Slovenia) and won't break the bank.

Visitors have easy access to free hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor activities since the Alps are close by. The city itself is easily walkable, so travelers can expect little to no transportation fees. And the food in Ljubljana on average costs between €7-10 which will free up room in the budget if visitors are looking to splurge in another area.

• Average cost: $91 per day
• Budget-friendly activities: Lake Bled, Ljubljana Castle, Triglav National Park
• Best time to visit: April-May and September-October

8 Kraków, Poland

Kraków, Poland, is renowned for being insanely budget-friendly for those seeking cheap solo vacation spots compared to the rest of Western Europe. Some hostels and hotels can be as low as €10-15 per night, while an entire meal can cost around €7. Solo travelers can really hit the jackpot when traveling to Kraków!

While Kraków is a smaller city, there are many historical sites to see and delicious food to try at the cafés and bars here. Solo travelers can visit the Wawel Cathedral, climb St. Mary's Basilica Tower for superb views of the city, and step inside the 10-acre Rynek Glowny Central Square. Afterward, travelers should visit the Wodka Bar for vodka flights under $2 or Ulica Krokodyli Pub & Café for incredible cocktails and desserts.

• Average cost: $60 per day
• Budget-friendly activities: St. Mary's Basilica, Planty Park, Kraków Barbican, Galicia Jewish Museum
• Best time to visit: June-October

Tipping 10% in restaurants and bars in Poland is expected and a nice gesture towards the staff. Waiters usually only earn 12 zl ($4) an hour.

7 Marrakech, Morocco

Home to stunning mosques, gardens, and beautiful streets, Marrakech, Morocco is a safe destination for solo travelers on a budget. Most hostels and hotels around the city can start as low as $20-50 per night and buses can help travelers get around for as little as $0.42.

One of the best ways to experience Marrakech is by walking around the Medina of Marrakesh and enjoying the street food vendors, the colorful mounds of spices, and other market traders. This is a great spot to interact with locals and pick up some unique souvenirs.

• Average cost: $67 per day
• Budget-friendly activities: Jardin Majorelle, Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, Medina of Marrakesh, Rahba Kedima Square
• Best time to visit: March-May and September-October

These Cheap Vacation Ideas Are Perfect for Anyone Looking To Travel On A Budget

6 buenos aires, argentina.

With its brightly colored streets, vibrant atmosphere, and no shortage of inexpensive activities, Buenos Aires is another one of the best destinations for cheap solo travel (plus, there are many free things to do in Buenos Aires ). Tourists can enjoy all the attractions, architecture, and exciting nightlife activities that Buenos Aires has to offer for less than $30 a day.

Buenos Aires is often referred to as the "Paris of South America," just without the huge price tag! The wide variety of French-style cafés and architectural design of the city streets do resemble Paris in some aspects, but Buenos Aires' charm and rich culture are unmatched.

• Average cost: $25 per day
• Budget-friendly activities: Teatro Colon, Cementerio de la Recoleta, Jardin Japones, Calles Defensa, Casa Rosada
• Best time to visit: April-June

Solo travelers should make sure to try empanadas, Buenos Aires' staple dish, at La Cocina or El Hornero for $1-2.

5 Seville, Spain

Located in southwestern Spain, the glamorous and vibrant city of Seville is a haven for solo travelers on a budget. Seville has so many attractions and beautiful landmarks that visitors may need 2–3 days to get the full experience.

Hostels in Seville usually run for $20-40 per night, while hotels cost around $60 or higher. Solo travelers can spend a day walking around Seville and touring historical attractions basically for free. When it comes to cuisine, Seville has a plethora of authentic, cheap eats that don't sacrifice quality. For local Seville flare, visit Bar Alfalfa for tapas and other snacks! Everything on their menu is under €5.

• Average cost: $132 per day
• Budget-friendly activities: Plaza de España, Seville Cathedral, Casa de Pilatos, Torre del Oro, Alcázar
• Best time to visit: March-May

Seville is a famous Star Wars filming location! Visitors can take a tour of Plaza de España and more of Seville to see where shots from Attack of the Clones (2002) were filmed.

4 Machu Picchu, Peru

Being able to see a Wonder of the World, colorful mountain landscapes, and experience a unique culture all on a budget is what makes this destination in Peru so incredible! Besides being budget-friendly, Machu Picchu, Peru, is also a safe destination for solo travelers.

For solo travelers who are not averse to hiking and outdoor adventures, Machu Picchu offers a fair amount of challenging hikes and archeological sites. Tickets to the Machu Picchu ruins are around $45 for adults, and it's highly recommended to buy tickets months in advance.

• Average cost: $98 per day
• Budget-friendly activities: Sacred Valley of the Incas, Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana Stone
• Best time to visit: March-May and September-December

3 Coron, Palawan, The Philippines

This small municipality on the island of Palawan in the Philippines is a true hidden gem that offers crystal-clear lagoons, serene beaches, and unique, off-the-grid houseboat accommodations. Solo travelers will never want to leave! Besides the stunning location, the best part about Coron is how insanely budget-friendly the island is. As one of the cheapest Philippines vacation spots , most hostels and hotels range from $5-10 per night.

Travelers shouldn't miss out on Coron's amazing snorkeling opportunities . There are at least a dozen different snorkeling spots that let travelers get up close to the colorful coral and even shipwrecks for less than $30. Moreover, Coron is home to some of the best scuba diving spots in the world . Overall, solo travelers looking for an affordable vacation in paradise should skip the expensive Maldives and come to Coron instead.

• Average cost: $36 per day
• Budget-friendly activities: Coron Bay, Twin Lagoon, Mt. Tapyas, Snorkeling Lusong Coral Gardens
• Best time to visit: December-April

10 Stunning Islands In The Philippines That Are A Must-Visit

2 phnom penh, cambodia.

Phnom Penh (pronounced puh-nom pen), is Cambodia's capital city and is surprisingly budget-friendly for solo travelers. This now-modern city was built in the 15th century by the French. And French is still widely spoken throughout the city along with English and Khmer.

Solo travelers can expect to spend roughly $10-18 on a hostel or hotel in Phnom Penh . Visitors will pay even less for delicious street food and at restaurants. Typical Southeast Asian cuisine in Phnom Penh like Fish Amok, Balut, and steamed pork buns can be found under $5 USD. Visitors can spend an evening out on the town by the Tonlé Sap River or enjoy Phnom Penh's eccentric nightlife.

• Average cost: $40 per day
• Budget-friendly activities: Central Market, Mekong River, Wat Phnom, Silver Pagoda
• Best time to visit: November-April

1 Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia, is the perfect budget solo travel destination for those who want to experience the heart of Europe but with affordable prices. Zagreb has a little something for everyone: bustling town squares, a historic cathedral, museums, open markets, and delicious eats.

Travelers can visit the Zagreb Cathedral, Dolac Farmers' Market, and St. Mark's Church for free. Any museums like the Museum of Broken Relationships, Zagreb City Museum, and the Museum of Hangovers (yes, this is a real museum about drunk/hangover stories) will cost visitors around €5-7.

For cheap eats around the city, solo travelers should check out Kai Street Food Bar or Curry Bowl for the best fusion and Sri Lankan food in Zagreb! Plus, their meals cost anywhere from €3-11.

• Average cost: $83 per day
• Budget-friendly activities: Cathedral of Zagreb, Maksimir Park, Ban Jelačić Square, St. Mark's Church, Museum of Broken Relationships
• Best time to visit: April-September

The Busy Retiree

2024’s Top 15 Budget-Friendly Travel Destinations

Posted: March 7, 2024 | Last updated: March 7, 2024

Deciding on a budget-friendly travel adventure doesn’t mean compromising on the excitement of exploration. In 2024, several enchanting destinations offer incredible experiences without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or beach lover, these affordable destinations promise a memorable journey. Let’s look into the cheapest places to travel in 2024, where your wallet can breathe a sigh of relief while you create lasting memories.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Known for its rich history and vibrant culture, Ho Chi Minh City is a budget traveler’s dream. Explore the bustling streets filled with delicious street food, visit historic landmarks like the War Remnants Museum, and take a boat trip through the iconic Mekong Delta.

Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Wander through the historic center, marvel at ancient Aztec ruins in Teotihuacan, and savor authentic tacos at local markets. With affordable accommodations and many free cultural attractions, Mexico City is a top pick for budget-conscious travelers.

Sofia, Bulgaria

For a taste of Eastern European charm without the hefty price tag, Sofia is an excellent choice. Visit the stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, stroll through Vitosha Mountain, and indulge in budget-friendly local cuisine. The affordable public transportation and low-cost attractions make Sofia an ideal destination for those seeking an affordable European getaway.

Hanoi, Vietnam

Another gem in Vietnam, Hanoi boasts a unique blend of French colonial architecture and traditional Vietnamese culture. Explore the Old Quarter’s narrow streets, sample delicious pho at street stalls, and take a leisurely stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake. Hanoi’s affordability extends to accommodations and local experiences, making it a top destination for budget travelers.

Quito, Ecuador

Nestled in the Andes, Quito offers a mix of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, take a cable car ride up Pichincha Volcano, and discover the vibrant markets. Quito’s affordability makes it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers looking to experience the charm of South America.

Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, charms visitors with its colorful neighborhoods, historic architecture, and scenic views. Enjoy affordable local cuisine, explore the iconic Belem Tower, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal gem. Don’t miss the famous custard tarts, Pastéis de Nata, at a fraction of the cost compared to other European capitals.

Krakow, Poland

Steeped in history, Krakow offers a budget-friendly European escape. Wander through the picturesque Old Town, visit the Wawel Castle, and experience the lively atmosphere of the Kazimierz district—all at an affordable cost. Enjoy a ride in a traditional horse-drawn carriage through the charming streets of the Old Town.

Bucharest, Romania

Romania’s capital, Bucharest, is a blend of grand architecture and modern delights. Explore the Palace of the Parliament, stroll through Herastrau Park, and indulge in the city’s thriving nightlife without breaking your budget. Discover hidden gems in the city’s lively neighborhood of Lipscani, filled with trendy cafes and vintage shops.

Kathmandu, Nepal

For an adventurous yet budget-friendly trip, head to Kathmandu. Discover ancient temples in Durbar Square, trek the nearby Himalayas, and experience the rich cultural heritage of Nepal without straining your wallet. Dive into the local culture with a visit to the bustling Thamel district, known for its vibrant street markets.

Bogotá, Colombia

Colombia’s capital, Bogotá, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene. Explore the historic La Candelaria neighborhood, visit the Gold Museum, and take a cable car ride to Monserrate for panoramic views—all within a budget-friendly travel plan. Immerse yourself in the city’s artistic spirit by exploring the vibrant street art scene in La Candelaria.

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Home to the iconic Angkor Wat, Siem Reap offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Explore ancient temples, discover the floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake, and enjoy affordable street food in this enchanting Cambodian destination. Catch a breathtaking sunrise at Angkor Wat, a moment that won’t cost you a dime.

Belgrade, Serbia

Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, is known for its lively atmosphere and diverse cultural scene. Visit the historic Belgrade Fortress, stroll along the Danube River, and experience the city’s vibrant nightlife—all without breaking the bank. Join locals in a traditional kafana for live music and a taste of Serbia’s hospitality.

La Paz, Bolivia

Nestled in the Andes, La Paz captivates with its stunning landscapes and indigenous culture. Explore the Witches’ Market, take a cable car ride for panoramic views, and embrace the unique atmosphere of one of the world’s highest capitals. Challenge yourself with a stroll along the famous El Camino de la Muerte, the Death Road, for an adrenaline-pumping experience.

Manila, Philippines

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, offers a mix of history and modernity. Explore the historic Intramuros district, visit Rizal Park, and indulge in the diverse street food scene—all at an affordable cost. Attend a traditional Filipino cultural show to witness the country’s rich heritage come to life.

Accra, Ghana

Experience the vibrant culture of West Africa in Accra. Visit the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, explore Jamestown’s colonial architecture, and relax on the beautiful Labadi Beach, all while enjoying the affordability of this welcoming city. Join locals in a dance at Independence Arch during one of Accra’s lively festivals.

Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing the joy of discovery. The cheapest places to travel in 2024 provide unique experiences, rich cultural encounters, and breathtaking landscapes—all without breaking the bank. From the lively streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the historic charm of Mexico City, these destinations offer budget-friendly adventures that will leave you with cherished memories for years to come. So, pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and explore the world affordably in 2024!

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ARE YOU LOOKING FOR MORE AFFORDABLE LUXURY TRAVEL?

Indulging in a lavish vacation without breaking the bank might seem a far-fetched dream, but it’s more achievable than you might think. With a little bit of planning and a few of my insider tips, you can enjoy luxury travel on a budget.

I asked Canadian blogger Cynthia Ross Tustin of I’m Thinking of Retiring , to share her tips for making affordable luxury travel a reality – even if you’re on a tight budget!

Budget – that’s not a word anyone would associate with luxury travel, but don’t let the phrase “luxury travel on a budget” turn you off. I prefer to think of it as affordable luxury travel. And in my mind, it’s the savvy way of seeing the world without breaking the bank. And believe me! I love to stretch a dollar .

In this blog post, I’ll show you how to experience affordable luxury travel and make your next trip unforgettable.

When it comes to luxury travel, many people assume it’s exclusively for the super-rich, but luxury means different things to different people. Not everyone likes champagne, and I truly loathe caviar. Even rich and famous love a deal!

There are many ways to experience luxury travel on a budget, from snagging a great deal on a five-star hotel to finding inexpensive ways to indulge in high-end dining and activities. You can enjoy all the luxuries of travel without overspending with a bit of research and careful planning,

Whether you’re looking for ways to save on transportation, accommodation, or experiences, I’ve got you covered with tips on finding the best deals on flights to discovering hidden gem destinations. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of luxury travel on a budget.

Best Tips For Luxury Travel on a Budget

So, what exactly is luxury travel?

It’s generally classified into three levels:

• Premium : high-end products and services accessible to a broader audience, e.g. mid-range luxury hotels and private guided tours.
• Ultra-luxury : rare products and services that are exclusively accessible to a select few, e.g. private yachts and private jets.
• Beyond luxury : the ultimate in luxury and exclusivity, e.g. private islands and unique experiences such as space tourism.

In this post, I’m talking about luxury travel on a budget – getting great deals for premium travel experiences. Very few people can afford the other options!

Here’s what I do to achieve amazing and affordable luxury vacations:

1. Travel during the off-season

Peak season is the most expensive time to travel. If you’re looking for luxury vacation packages or reasonably priced, premium amenities, travelling during the off-season can be a fantastic way to save money without sacrificing comfort and style.

Airfares are usually cheaper during the off-season, while hotels and other travel providers often offer lower rates outside of the peak season to attract more customers. This means you could stay in luxury hotels or enjoy all-inclusive luxury vacation packages at a fraction of the cost.

Great destinations in the off-season for real luxury on a budget include Costa Rica, Thailand, or Mexico. These countries offer beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, and luxurious accommodations at a fraction of the cost of other destinations.

I love Costa Rica during the “rainy season” because the hotels are amazing, the weather is lovely, and off-peak times are perfect for seeing unique events, like the rare Olive Ridley Turtles laying or hatching their eggs en masse.

2. Consider a Repositioning Cruise

When cruise liners are moved to a new location to take advantage of better seasonal weather in different parts of the world, this is called “repositioning.”

You can take a repositioning cruise at greatly reduced fares. While they are one-way trips, you can stay longer ashore at the destination country and come home a separate way 🙂

3. Look for deals and promotions

Many travel providers offer discounted packages and tours to attract more customers during the off-season.

Pro Tip: Rather than take the discount, use this as an opportunity to get an upgraded room or package.

4. Use online travel agencies

One of the best ways to find great deals on flights, hotels, and vacation packages (including all-inclusive vacation packages that include flights, accommodations, and other travel expenses) is to use online travel sites such as Expedia, Orbitz, and Travelocity.

Booking packages can be cheaper than booking each aspect of your trip separately, and many of these packages offer luxury travel, so it’s a great way to enjoy luxury travel without breaking the bank.

Pro Tip: Consider purchasing travel packages online on Black Friday for the following year. I’ve personally saved as much as 60% on all-inclusive vacation packages by buying on Black Friday. And here I thought it was only for TVs and appliances!

5. Use Travel Apps

Speaking of online, don’t forget to add useful travel apps to your cellphone. Apps will provide general travel information and alerts for great last-minute deals on hotels, airfare, and emerging threats at your destination.

There’s even an app to help you find the closest bathroom 🙂

6. Check hotel websites

Many hotels offer exclusive promotions and deals when you book directly through their website. It’s always a good idea to check the hotel’s website before booking through a third-party site to see if you can get a better deal.

If you know where you wish to stay, or have been there several times, call the hotel or resort directly. Don’t be afraid to ask for a deal, a discount, or an upgrade.

7. Travel deal websites

Many specialise in finding and promoting travel deals, such as Groupon, LivingSocial, and Travelzoo . These sites often offer exclusive discounts and promotions that can help you save money on your travels.

8. Credit card rewards programs

Some credit cards offer rewards programs that allow you to earn points or miles that can be redeemed for travel.

These rewards can help you save money on flights, hotels, and other travel expenses, such as travel insurance and purchase protections.

Most credit cards that offer travel rewards charge high interest rates on overdue balances. While these cards are a terrific way to accumulate rewards quickly, they are only budget-friendly if you pay off your outstanding balance every month.

9. Loyalty programmes

Hotel loyalty programmes offer varied benefits and rewards that can help stretch your budget. The best one for you depends on your travel preferences and habits.

Popular programmes can help stretch your budget with rewards such as free room upgrades, complimentary breakfast, and points that can be redeemed for free nights or other travel experiences.

Airline loyalty programmes typically offer benefits such as free checked bags, priority boarding, and access to airport lounges.

It’s important to compare the benefits and rewards of different loyalty programs to determine which is the best fit for your travel needs.

10. Consider emerging destinations

As emerging destinations are not yet fully established on the tourist trail, they often offer lower prices for accommodations, food, and activities than more popular destinations.

These emerging destinations often offer unique and authentic cultural experiences that cannot be found in more touristy areas. When you visit one of these locations, you can have an exclusive and memorable vacation that is both luxurious and affordable.

Emerging destinations worth considering include:

With its beautiful beaches, stunning natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Vietnam is quickly becoming a popular destination for luxury travellers seeking unique experiences. Vietnam is still relatively affordable, making it an ideal destination for those seeking luxury travel on a budget .

This small Balkan country has picturesque coastal towns, stunning beaches, and rugged mountains, but often overlooked in favour of its more popular neighbours. Montenegro offers a unique and authentic travel experience that won’t break the bank.

This tropical island nation off the southern coast of India is known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. While it has become more popular recently, Sri Lanka still offers affordable luxury accommodations, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a unique and affordable luxury vacation.

11. Choose your accommodations wisely

Never assume that a 5-star hotel will be superior to a 4-star one! A freshly renovated 4-star boutique hotel may offer more luxury amenities and a more intimate and personalised experience than a large 5-star chain hotel.

Before you decide, compare the offerings of both types of accommodations.

Luxury is assessed differently in different parts of the world. For example, a 5-star resort in Cuba may not offer the same level of luxury as a 4-star bed and breakfast in Portugal.

Look beyond the star rating and consider other factors, such as location, amenities, and reviews from other travellers. Taking a more comprehensive approach to your research can help you find hidden gems with the perfect blend of luxury and affordability.

12. Check offers from newly opened hotels

Finding offers on newly opened or re-opened hotels can be a great way to save money and experience a property before it becomes well-known and more expensive.

Here are some suggestions to help you stay in one of these new hotels:

Sign up for hotel newsletters and loyalty programs : Be among the first to hear about new and re-opened hotels and any associated offers.

Check travel deal websites for special deals on newly opened or re-opened hotels : Look for discounted room rates, free upgrades, or complimentary meals. Never underestimate Google!

Follow hotels on social media : Stay up to date on any offers or promotions they may be offering.

Use travel agents : Travel agents often have access to exclusive deals and offers, including those for new or re-opened hotels. They can help you find the best deals and tailor your trip to your preferences and budget.

Check hotel review websites : Search TripAdvisor for reviews and ratings for newly opened or re-opened hotels.

Word of mouth:  I consider a tip from a friend to be the gold standard for finding a deal, a sale, or a discount. My family motto is, “If it’s free, it’s for me”!

When a friend told me about her great vacation in the Dominican Republic, I got a great deal at the newly opened Majestic Mirage in Punta Cana. How? We Googled it, called the resort and asked if there were any deals. Yup! They were so new that they were totally underbooked for the high season and still in the “soft opening” stage. We booked at a 35% discount and had our room upgraded to a suite. And just FYI, the food, service, and pools were amazing!

13. Eat like a local

Eating locally is a great way to experience luxury travel on a budget while supporting the local economy.

Discovering unique and regional dishes can expand your culinary horizons and enhance your travel experience: this taste of local culture will be impossible at international chain restaurants.

So, next time you travel, don’t miss out on the affordable luxury of eating locally.

Pro Tip:  Combine a meal with a tour. Think “dinner and a show” or take a food and wine tour while you’re on vacation.

14. Prioritise your activities

Focus on the activities that are most important to you with a customised travel experience that fits within your budget. Even in group tours , excursions can sometimes be purchased a la carte. You do not have to be part of or pay for every activity offered during the tour.

15. Cut out expenses that don’t add value to your travel experience

Not interested in shopping? Skip the high-end boutiques and focus on other, more important activities. This might be the ideal time for a self-guided walking tour .

16. book tickets or reservations in advance

Take advantage of early bird discounts and avoid last-minute price hikes. Broadway theatre tickets can be the impetus for a week in New York. How about Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Bad Cinderella? Or Hamilton?

In my experience, Broadway shows are so popular they don’t use early bird options, but that doesn’t mean savvy travellers can’t save money.

There are plenty of official Broadway Theatre ticket stands, and you can often get same-day tickets cheaper, if you’re prepared to stand in line for them.

Fun Fact: These are called “rush tickets” thanks to the Broadway play “Rent”.

Pro Tip: The best trick, I think, is to buy online using discount codes. The prices are often as good or better than same-day rush.

17. Look for early bird special offers

Savvy travellers look for early bird specials; some plan their whole trip around a special deal, like a sporting event or tickets for a show.

Buying while the show is still in rehearsal can save you money. Big cities with active theatre districts like Chicago, Toronto, and London offer discount tickets for “early birds”. The same applies to large sporting events like baseball, hockey, racing, football, and soccer.

18. Avoid tourist traps

Tourist traps take advantage of the high demand for goods and services in popular tourist areas and charge accordingly.

• Hotel prices in popular tourist destinations can be up to 200% more expensive than in less popular locations.
• Restaurants in tourist areas often charge more for food and drinks because they know that tourists may not be familiar with local prices or may be willing to pay more for the convenience of being in a central location.
• Souvenirs and other items sold in tourist areas often take advantage of the high volume of tourists passing through.

Pro Tip : Do research and compare prices before making purchases. Focus on lesser-known destinations and activities; you can find unique and memorable experiences that don’t cost a fortune.

19. Customise Your Itinerary

Customising your itinerary can help you create a more enjoyable and meaningful travel experience. When you focus on the activities that you are most interested in, you’re not paying for things you’re not interested in!

Seek hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations that offer an authentic and affordable travel experience.

20. Consider a retreat!

Retreats are boutique-style vacations with well-curated activities. They are crafted to serve the specific wants and desires of specific groups of people.

Retreats often focus on yoga, wellness, adventure, silence, spirituality, creativity, and culinary. Many of these can be completely immersive experiences , including everything except your airfare. There are often savings if you bring a friend or want to share a room.

What is luxury budget?

This is the amount of money you’re willing and able to spend on luxury goods or experiences while still being mindful of your overall budget. It’s about finding ways to indulge in luxurious experiences without overspending or going into debt.

A luxury budget can vary, depending on individual financial situations and priorities. For some, a luxury budget may mean spending a few hundred dollars on a fancy dinner or spa treatment, while for others, it may mean spending several thousand dollars on a luxury vacation.

The key to maintaining a luxury budget is to prioritise and plan ahead. Identify what experiences or items are most important to you and allocate your budget accordingly. You can stretch your luxury budget further when researching deals and discounts, travelling during off-peak seasons, and being flexible with travel dates.

FAQs: Luxury Travel on a Budget

What are examples of affordable luxuries.

Affordable luxuries are high-quality goods or services that provide a sense of indulgence or enjoyment without breaking the bank, including spa treatments, high-quality bedding, gourmet food, travel upgrades , and entertainment experiences.

How to find cheap luxury vacations?

Finding cheap luxury vacations can seem daunting, but planning an affordable yet luxurious getaway is possible. Here’s how to find your dream vacation without breaking the bank: 1. Be flexible with your travel dates 2. Check travel deal websites like Expedia for special deals on luxury vacations 3. Look for package deals 4. Consider alternative destinations 5. Use loyalty programs 6. Book in advance

How much does a luxury vacation cost?

The cost of a luxury vacation can vary widely depending on a number of factors, such as the destination, type of accommodation, length of stay, and activities planned. Generally, a luxury vacation can cost anywhere from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars per person.

Where can I go for a cheap luxury holiday?

You can enjoy a luxury holiday without breaking the bank in several destinations. Bali, Thailand, Portugal, Mexico and Costa Rica are great exotic luxury vacation destinations, with some of the cheapest luxury resorts in the world

How to stay at luxury hotel cheaper?

The best way to stay at a luxury hotel for less includes booking during the off-season, looking for promotions and deals, using loyalty programs, booking through travel agents, and considering alternative accommodations, such as vacation rentals or boutique hotels, where you may be able to find luxury options at a more affordable price.

Where is the most luxurious holiday destination?

There are many luxurious holiday destinations worldwide, each offering its unique blend of opulence, beauty, and relaxation. Some of the most luxurious holiday destinations include the Maldives, the French Riviera, Dubai, Tuscany, Bali, Monaco, and Ibiza

Let’s Sum Up Luxury Travel on a Budget

So, now you know that luxury travel on a budget is possible!

From taking advantage of off-season travel discounts to signing up for loyalty programs, you can make your dream trip a reality without breaking the bank. And don’t forget about emerging destinations – these up-and-coming hotspots offer a unique and cost-effective way to experience luxury travel.

So, whether you’re looking for all-inclusive packages or budget-friendly retreats, remember that the key is to be savvy and creative with your travel planning.

With a little bit of research and a lot of wanderlust, you’ll be on your way to enjoying the trip of a lifetime!

Coralie Thornton, the owner and author of Grey Globetrotters, has been a traveller for more than four decades. Today, she helps others experience the UK, Europe and bucketlist destinations with meticulously crafted guides and affordable luxury itineraries, Her passion for adventure has led her through over 40 countries, seeking cultural experiences, delicious foods, and hidden gems.

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USA TODAY 10Best

Travel more, spend less: Discover 10 affordable destinations across the US

Best U.S. Destination on a Budget (2023) May 19, 2023

Traveling around the United States doesn't have to be expensive. In fact, there are plenty of affordable destinations to choose from, offering a wealth of attractions, places to stay and places to eat. These 10 destinations across the country, chosen by a panel of travel experts and voted as the best by readers, may help you skimp on the budget, but they certainly don't skimp on things to do.

No. 10: Black Hills of South Dakota - Custer and Rapid City, South Dakota

The Black Hills of South Dakota is a great place for travelers on any budget, with so much to see and do at a low cost. Spots to see include two national parks, Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore, called Tȟuŋkášila Šákpe, or Six Grandfathers, by the Lakota.

No. 9: Asheville, North Carolina

Situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Asheville is an exciting, art-forward city. It’s also an affordable place to visit with stellar restaurants, historic architecture and an eclectic downtown area. Some free things to do around the city include going for a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway or strolling through a multitude art galleries.

No. 8: Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. is an amazing place to visit for museum lovers, with its one-of-a-kind Smithsonian museums that offer a wide variety of experiences at no cost. Expert Kyle McCarthy suggests that visitors "plan an African American history week in a town filled with Black history and neighborhoods, tour government buildings and picnic on the Mall."

No. 7: Knoxville, Tennessee

Situated on the Tennessee River, Knoxville is a fun, affordable city for a vacation, with an easily walkable downtown and lots of low-cost places to wine and dine. The city’s Urban Wilderness Gateway Park offers plenty of trails and historical spots to explore. Other places to visit include the East Tennessee Historical Society and Museum and James White’s Fort.

No. 6: Tulsa, Oklahoma

Situated on the Arkansas River in Oklahoma, affordable Tulsa is beloved for its art deco architecture that’s featured best in its aptly named Deco District. It’s relatively easy to stretch money in this city for hotels, food and entertainment without missing out on any of the fun. Some low-cost or free things to do in Tulsa include visiting the Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area, The Cave House, the Woody Guthrie Center and Woodward Park.

No. 5: Destin, Florida

Located in Florida’s Panhandle, Destin is beloved for its breathtaking white sand beaches and emerald water, offering abundant nature trails and wildlife. Low-cost or free things to do in Destin include visiting the Village of Baytowne Wharf, strolling along Crystal Sands Beach and biking along Scenic Highway 98.

No. 4: Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque is the biggest city in New Mexico, and it's an affordable place for a getaway at any time of year. Some places and things to see include the Petroglyph National Monument, downtown murals and the South Broadway Cultural Center. Visitors shouldn’t miss the city’s Old Town with a lot of inexpensive things to do, like visiting the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center and other museums.

No. 3: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia is the biggest city in Pennsylvania with a variety of inexpensive things to see and do. Budget-conscious visitors will especially enjoy that everything at Independence National Historic Park is free. Other free places to visit in the city include the Institute of Contemporary Art and the Rocky Statue that commemorates the film’s iconic scene on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

No. 2: San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio is perhaps best known for its beautiful River Walk and The Alamo, the old Spanish mission that’s been preserved as a museum. Visitors can spend a low-cost, fun-filled day along the River Walk with its promenade that has distinctive cafes and shops. Other must-see spots include the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park and the San Antonio Museum of Art.

No. 1: Memphis, Tennessee

Set along the Mississippi River in southwest Tennessee, Memphis is a historic city that’s perhaps best known for its music scene and connection to iconic musicians like B.B. King and Elvis Presley. Although it’s a popular vacation spot, the cost of living here is lower than it is in many American cities. Some fun places to visit include Graceland, the Rock 'n' Soul Museum and the legendary Sun Studio.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Allison tibaldi.

Allison Tibaldi is a travel and food writer based...   Read More

Allison Tibaldi is a travel and food writer based in New York City. She has lived in Rome, Tuscany, Melbourne Australia, Toronto and Los Angeles.  She studied early childhood development in graduate school and firmly believes that travel is the best education.  She writes for numerous publications including CNN, Travel Channel, HGTV, am New York, Emirates Open Skies, Family Traveller and Travel Weekly. 

Catherine Parker

Catherine Parker has a passion for travel that’s...   Read More

Catherine Parker has a passion for travel that’s driven her across North America, visiting all 50 U.S. states, seven Canadian provinces, six Mexican states along with top destinations in the Caribbean, Europe and Asia. Logging close to 100,000 miles behind the wheel, Catherine has explored 43 of the 63 U.S. national parks, 10 Canadian national parks in addition to national parks across the world. She is always willing to stop the vehicle for a great hike and has even been chased by a protective mamma bear.    As an awarding-winning journalist, she contributes to  U.S. News and World Report,   Trip Advisor ,  Popular Science, C hron.com   and Meredith Media’s  Family Fun  and Chicago’s  Suburban Family.  Her writing was featured in the onboard Alaskan travel guides:  Compass—The Onboard Magazine of Holland America   Line  and  Disney Cruise Line Wonder Onboard Guide.  Catherine also contributes to several Texas magazines as a monthly contributor well as online travel publications. Catherine publishes a family travel website,  CarfulOfKids.com . She lives in Central Texas in a 100-year-old house with a menagerie of animals and adult-sized kids. 

Cheryl Rodewig

Cheryl Rodewig is an award-winning journalist...   Read More

Cheryl Rodewig is an award-winning journalist specializing in travel. When she’s not planning her next trip — preferably to a waterfall or garden — she’s putting her MBA to use crafting marketing stories for brands. You can read her words in Thrillist, AARP, USA Today, Insider, The Guardian, and all over  cherylrodewig.com . She loves it when people reach out on  Twitter  and sometimes  Instagram .

Dave Stamboulis

Dave Stamboulis is a travel writer/photographer...   Read More

Dave Stamboulis is a travel writer/photographer based in Bangkok. Born in Athens, Greece and growing up in the U.S., Dave first discovered Bangkok while on a 45,000-kilometer bicycle trip and moved there for good in 2005. Dave's photos appear in publications around the world. He's the author of Odysseus' Last Stand , which received the Silver Medal for Travel Book of the Year from the Society of American Travel Writers. In addition to updating the Fodor's Guidebook to Thailand, he is the author of 500 Hidden Secrets to Bangkok, and his travel stories and photography appear in publications around the globe. 

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She...   Read More

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She was born with deeply ingrained wanderlust and has visited 45 countries and counting. She often brings her children along for the adventure and is passing her love of travel on to the next generation. Jamie has written for   Insider,   Fodor's Travel ,   Yahoo ,  the Huffington Post , the  Washington Post,   Viator  and  Reviewed  among many other publications. Jamie is from Philadelphia and now lives in Washington, DC, where she takes advantage of everything the region has to offer.    Jamie can be reached at  [email protected]  and can be found on  Twitter ,  Instagram  and  TikTok .

Lauren Mack

Lauren Mack is a freelance travel and food...   Read More

Lauren Mack is a freelance travel and food journalist whose work has appeared in 150+ publications, including The Daily Meal, Culture Trip, Cheapflights.com, TripSavvy, Booking.com, Newsweek International, ThoughtCo, and more. She currently writes for INSIDER, Thrillist, Time Out USA, Seeker, Goldbelly, Savory Traveler, and BestColleges. A journalist for 23 years, Lauren has edited and written travel guidebooks on Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taipei, Miami, and New York for Zagat, Time Out, GuidePal, and Explorer Publishing. Lauren has a master's degree in journalism from Columbia Journalism School. She has traveled to 54 countries on five continents and counts Beijing and Taipei, two cities where she lived for many years, as favorites. Lauren is a 2023 recipient of Columbia Scholastic Press Association's Gold Key award. Facebook:  laurenmackny  | Twitter:  @lmack  | Instagram  @mack_lauren  | Website:  www.laurenmack.com.

Melissa Curtin

Melisa Curtin is a travel and food writer who has...   Read More

Melisa Curtin is a travel and food writer who has documented her globetrotting adventures for over a decade. A Connecticut girl madly in love with California, her work has appeared in Lonely Planet, LA Weekly, Canadian Traveler, AAA, Roadtrippers, JohnnyJet, Travel Awaits, and many southern California print publications. Melissa is always on the hunt for the best local bites and destinations with few tourists, splitting her non-travel time between Malibu and Palm Springs with her husband and ever-growing collection of plants.    Traveling around the world at age 20 on Semester at Sea sparked Melissa's desire for learning about other cultures. As a 20+ year educator and new travel advisor with Fora, she inspires others to reach their goals and pursue their travel dreams. Some of her recent favorite jaunts include a Viking river cruise from Paris to Normandy with her mom, truffle hunting in Tuscany, and eating her way through Florence. Get to know the Best of L.A. and California by checking out her website  LaLaScoop.com  or following the @lalascoop on Instagram .

Melissa Locker

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Melissa Locker is a freelance travel, lifestyle, and culture writer and world-renowned fish telepathist. You can learn more about Melissa at  melissalocker.com  and connect on Instagram and Twitter via @woolyknickers. 

Catherine Smith

Catherine Smith, Readers' Choice Awards...   Read More

Catherine Smith, Readers' Choice Awards Production Manager and Social Media Director for USA TODAY 10Best, has a special interest in unique culinary experiences and  off-the-beaten-path adventures. Catherine is the founder of  Her Bags Were Packed  where she focuses on helping  women release emotional baggage through solo travel and self-discovery.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

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Lady Boss Blogger

Launch, Grow, And Monetize Your Blog And Instagram

25 Of The Best Budget Travel Blogs

September 12, 2020 by Guest Blogger 1 Comment

Are you interested in seeing the best budget travel blogs out there and how they’ve gotten their smart?

It’s all about discovering the value of things and learning from other travelers and bloggers.

Here are 25 budget-friendly travel blogs that focus on choosing better destinations, so travelers still have room in their budget to enjoy everything a new place may have to offer!

1. The Poor Traveler

“We’re full-time travelers. But for most of our lives, like most people, we had day jobs and could only travel on weekends and holidays. We know how it feels to work hard and look forward to spending limited time and money on travel.

When we were starting out, we made a lot of mistakes. We got lost all the time, got scammed all the time, and ended up spending more than we should.

“We created this blog to accomplish two things:

1. document our misadventures, and 2. provide budget travel tips …so others won’t have to waste hard-earned money when they travel.”

–Yosh and Vins, The Poor Traveler

2. The Budget-Minded Traveler

“My mission is to make travel as easy and accessible for you as possible, and that is why The Budget-Minded Traveler exists.

Learn from my mistakes, catch on to my budget tricks, live vicariously through the photos and stories on this site until you just can’t take it anymore.

Then, go for yourself. Life is too short to live vicariously.”

– Jackie Nourse, The Budget Traveler

3. The Professional Hobo

“Hi, I’m Nora Dunn. In 2006, I decided to take the plunge.

I sold my financial planning practice in Toronto, Canada, and got rid of all of my belongings in order to free myself up for the adventure of a lifetime.

I hit the road in early 2007, and over the next 12 years, I traveled slowly through over 55 countries and five continents, carrying my best  travel camera  with me and taking images of everything that caught my eye.. I have lived a variety of lifestyles by working in the trade for free accommodation.

As such, I can travel in a financially sustainable manner like this for as long as I wish. And I plan to.”

– Nora Dunn, The Professional Hobo

4. Etramping

“Etramping is a travel blog devoted to discovering and sharing the passion for outdoor adventure in all its form.

This is where experienced worldwide travelers share their inspiring stories, unique activities, and crazy adventures from all around the world to ignite the wanderlust in you and motivate you to start or continue your own journey.

Packed with pro-budget-friendly travel tips, Etramping features amazing unknown places you never knew existed and no man dare to visit. In fact, you’ll find every single country in the world covered on Etramping.

All of this to show you that adventure is worthwhile, the world isn’t as dangerous as you think, and everyone can afford to travel.”

– Agnes and Cez, Etramping

5. Shereen Travels Cheap

“My goal is to show that you  can  travel, and you can go further and do more while spending less than you probably thought possible.

Because I don’t save money by staying in hostels, sleeping on couches of strangers, going camping or sleeping on buses (planned, anyway), I don’t expect you to either. I eat out, sleep in comfy beds, and see all the sights.

I compromise by packing less, doing laundry, making a few meals, and using coupons/promo codes.”

– Shereen Rayle, Shereen Travels Cheap

6. Globe Trotter Girls

“I am here to help you make traveling easier, sharing what I’ve learned on my journey, the good, the bad and the ugly. I am sharing the mistakes I’ve made so you don’t have to make the same ones.

I am sharing my money-saving tips, travel hacks, and places I loved. I strive to make GlobetrotterGirls.com your go-to travel resource you can trust.”

– Dani, Globetrottergirls

7. The Savvy Backpacker

“We’re James and Susan — a husband and wife team that loves living and traveling in Europe.

We created The Savvy Backpacker way back in 2010 to help people plan their budget travels through Europe.

Our mission is simple: We want to help you travel around Europe without spending a fortune.”

– James and Susan, The Savvy Backpacker

8. Budget Traveller

“For 9 years, I’ve been traveling in style on a budget and challenging people to think differently about budget travel.

So, whether it is staying at a luxury hostel in Madrid or Tokyo to showing people where to find the best, authentic street food in a city, you’ll find it all here on this blog.”

– Kash, The Budget Traveller

9. Nomadic Matt

“I’m Nomadic Matt, a New York Times best-selling author of  How to Travel the World on $50 a Day .

If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to travel cheaper, turn your dream trip into a reality, save money, or travel the world, you are in the right place!

This website will give you tested tips, advice, and suggestions so you can see more for less and make your dream trip a reality. Unlike other travel websites, you won’t find sponsored content or paid trips here.

Every place, restaurant, or attractions has been personally visited by me (or one of my guest columnists) and   we pay our own way.”

– Matt, Nomadic Matt

10. On The Luce

“Back in 2011, I gave up the day job after 10 years in London to develop a more flexible lifestyle.

I did the whole ‘give up everything and travel for years’ backpacking trip in my 20s, but now with a business, house, family and friends, I’m trying to bring them all together.

So, I mix up travel and home life – with trips ranging from weekends in the UK and Europe to more far-flung exotic trips.

I still travel on a budget, but have done my share of hostels, overnight buses and instant noodles.

Today my travels come with a touch of luxury – proper beds, internals flights and a glass of wine included.”

– Lucy, On the Luce

11. Ordinary Traveler

“Ordinary Traveler is an award-winning adventure travel and lifestyle blog, written by Christy Woodrow and Scott Calafiore.

In 2009, we created Ordinary Traveler to chronicle our travels and share our love of photography.

Over the past 10 years, Ordinary Traveler has grown tremendously and it’s now one of the top travel blogs, offering useful travel advice and tips on balancing a home life with extreme wanderlust.”

– Christy and Scott, Ordinary Traveler

12. The Planet D

“We live by the motto ‘Adventure is for Everyone’ because we believe that you don’t have to be an uber-athlete, adrenaline junkie or a part of the ultra-rich to be an adventurer!

All you need is the desire to achieve something more.”

– Dave and Deb, The Planet D

13. RexyEdventures

“Jacking in my corporate job in 2011, I went on a Round the World Trip and I had never stopped traveling since. From then I started a travel blog, Rexy Edventures.”

– Ed, RexyEdventures

14. Traveling Mom

“Our network of family travel experts can help with everything from family vacation planning suggestions to packing tips.

We know the best packing hacks, how to get the most for your money, where to find the free things to do with kids.

Our family travel experts have been to all seven continents and they know how to have fun on a staycation.”

– Traveling Moms

15. VickyFlipFlopTravels

“The travel blog for people who want to make the most of their annual leave, weekends, money and friends, by exploring the world, and a festival or two.”

– Vicky, VickyFlipFlopTravels

16. yTravel Blog

“We’re here to show you that you can travel anywhere in the world on little dime, you can rock up in a country where you know no one and have life-changing experiences, you can travel with the one you love and have a thriving relationship, and you can create a strong lifelong bond with your children through the shared memories of travel.

To be clear, we’ve created a lifestyle of travel for over twenty years without a trust fund, without special privileges, or well-connected friends. We’ve made it happen with an intense desire and by putting one foot in front of the other.”

— Caz and Craig, yTravel Blog

17. Borders Of Adventure

“I’m Becki Enright, and I’m a British Travel Press award-winning writer, blogger and avid explorer.

Borders of Adventure is a leading culture and adventure travel blog, where destination inspiration is combined with social, historical, political and cultural reporting.”

– Becki, Borders of Adventure

18. Backpacking Matt

“Backpackingmatt.com is dedicated to giving you tips on how to travel the world and showing how living an alternative, unconventional life can be satisfying, rewarding and realistic.”

– Matt, Backpacking Matt

19. Backpacks And Bunkbeds

“In this blog, I’ll try to help fellow backpackers and travelers alike where I can by posting articles covering costs, maps, directions, money-saving tips.

If you also fancy starting your own travel blog, I also like to post on the ‘art’ of travel blogging, so expect a few techy types posts too. If there’s anything else you’d like to see more of on this site please just let me know.”

– Neil, Backpacks and Bunkbeds

20. Don’t Forget To Move

“At Don’t Forget to Move, we help promote and inspire adventurous, authentic and responsible travel around the world.

We show travelers how to see the world authentically through unique stories, engaging photography and videos, honest reviews and practical travel tips.”

– Christine and Jules, Don’t Forget to Move

21. LadyBossBlogger

“After starting a wildly successful blog for female entrepreneurs, LadyBossBlogger.com, accruing 150,000+ followers in under 2 years, I decided to document my travels on Instagram @elainerau and my blog and teach people how to make money online as a travel influencer.”

– Elaine Rau, LadyBossBlogger

22. One Step 4Ward

“Hey guys, I’m Johnny, an Irish guy who left home 10 years ago with no money but with a dream to live a better life.

I taught English in Asia, traveled a lot, ran out of money. Figured there was more.

So, I started my blog, started ‘working’ as I traveled, made over $1m USD from blogging and now I’m free.

Oh, and I’ve traveled to every single country on the planet as I’ve blogged.

Now I’d love to teach you guys how to ‘Dream Big. Travel Far. Live Full’. If I can do it, so can you!”

– Johnny, One Step 4Ward

23. Our Oyster

“The Our Oyster family consists of Jade and Simon and their two young children, living in Australia and traveling around the world.

So far, we have explored 60 countries! One of our main mottos is: Travel on a budget, so you can do more for longer.”

– Jade, Our Oyster

24. Rocky Travel

“My mission is to help like-minded travelers become more independent, travel in a smart and sustainable way, lead a healthy lifestyle and travel more.”

– Michela, Rocky Travel

25. Tim Leffel’s Cheapest Destination Blog

“I help people figure out how to travel well for less and show them where they’ll get the most bang for their budget.

I write about the cheapest places to travel as well as great places to live abroad for less.”

– Tim, Cheapest Destinations Blog

Claire Erickson is currently a blogging intern at LadyBossBlogger.com. Claire has just returned from studying abroad at the London College of Fashion and will finish her senior year studying retail merchandising back at her home university – University of Minnesota (Twin Cities). She is looking forward to a having a future in buying, trend research, or planning.

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• Honeymoon Destinations

12 Affordable Honeymoon Destinations That Inspire Romance Without Breaking the Bank

Because love shouldn't cost a thing.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Your honeymoon should be an opportunity to decompress after months of wedding planning . In reality, however, doling out a small fortune for your first vacation as a married couple — after spending a pretty penny on the wedding itself — can be just as stressful.

According to a study by The Knot , newlyweds dropped an average of $5,100 on the trip in 2022 (after spending tens of thousands on the wedding, in most cases). So it would be understandable for couples to feel hesitant about booking the dreamy multi-country European tour or lavish overwater villa they've always dreamed of. But fret not, frugal lovebirds — there are plenty of luxurious honeymoon destinations, even for couples on a budget.

Booking a honeymoon on Oahu rather than Maui or Kauai, for instance, can deliver a classic Hawaiian experience for less. As another example, if you love Spain but don't want to pay Spain prices, neighboring Portugal is a little more affordable. Traveling during a destination's off-season means cheaper lodging (and fewer people), while tracking flights on Hopper will ensure you buy tickets when prices are at their lowest.

Ready to celebrate a lifetime together somewhere spectacular? Here are 12 cheap honeymoon destinations on our radar.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Honeymooners love Belize, a gorgeous slice of Central America that serves up idyllic beaches with a side of tropical forest. Belize City, the nation's largest urban area, is perfect for active couples. You can go kayaking or snorkeling and visit the nearby Mayan sites Xunantunich and Cahal Pech or the jaguar preserve at Cockscomb Basin .

Belize is also home to many resorts that offer all-inclusive packages — such as Chaa Creek and Belizean Dreams — which help couples save money on food and drinks. Though not all-inclusive, Xanadu Island Resort on Ambergris Caye, overlooking the largest barrier reef in the Caribbean Sea, offers an array of complimentary activities, such as kayaking, bird-watching, paddleboarding, and bicycle rentals.

Key Largo, Florida

If you're looking for somewhere warm to spend your honeymoon that doesn't require an international flight, head to Key Largo (you can even reach this Florida destination by road ). The long, skinny piece of land in the upper Florida Keys has plenty of beach and water sports from snorkeling to paddleboarding. It's also a 45-minute drive from Everglades National Park , where you can try to spot the park's resident manatees and crocodiles.

Book your honeymoon adventure at the Baker's Cay Resort Key Largo, Curio Collection by Hilton , which stretches along the scenic Florida Bay, or check out the highly rated Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection , which has an ocean-view pool and a private beach area.

If you want to get out of the U.S., but don't want to travel far, Bermuda is the perfect destination. Flights from NYC are just over two hours long, and upon arrival, you'll be greeted by the island's famous pink-sand beaches and turquoise waters.

Stay at The Reefs Resort and Club , which has three restaurants and bars, two tennis courts, and complimentary kayaks and snorkel gear. Up the ante with the resort's romance package, which includes an ocean view room for four nights, a welcome cocktail, four gourmet dinners (one on the beach), a 60-minute couple's massage, and champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries upon arrival.

On the other side of the island, you'll find Rosewood Bermuda , a property with multiple restaurants and lounges and an unbeatable location on the coastline of Castle Harbour. With plenty of free or affordable things to do in Bermuda, like walking the Royal Naval Dockyard or visiting the Unfinished Church, couples don't have to feel guilty splurging a little bit on their accommodations.

Jamaica is the land of good vibes, mountains, rain forest, and beautiful beaches — but budget-conscious honeymooners will also appreciate the typically affordable flights to the island and the low cost of living. Save money by exploring the island on your own and hanging on the beach (which, let's be honest, never gets old), so you can splurge on accommodations at the GoldenEye resort, where Ian Fleming wrote all 14 James Bond novels. Today, the property is a honeymooning couple's dream, with a lagoon, secluded beaches, and stand-alone villas, cottages, and beach huts.

The island is also home to plenty of all-inclusive resorts , where you can pay upfront, then enjoy your honeymoon without stressing about that second round of drinks or late-night room service order. For the ultimate all-inclusive experience, check out the Azul Beach Resort Negril or one of the island's seven adults-only Sandals .

Napa and Sonoma, California

There's no lack of luxury in California's Napa and Sonoma valleys, but you can keep the costs down by experiencing it on your own terms. Kick the celebration off with a flight of sparkling wine at Domaine Carneros winery, a French chateau-inspired spot with beautiful formal gardens perfect for photo ops.

Stay at the Carneros Resort and Spa , where you can book a luxury suite or retreat from the world in a spacious cottage. With delicious food options on-site and an extensive spa, you'll never have to leave the compound. But it's worth venturing out for a ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train to take in the sights with lunch and wine included. Compare tour options for the best price.

Head to the Sonoma Plaza for a quaint shopping experience at local boutiques and to check out a Spanish-style mission. Save a few bucks by bringing your own wine, cheese, and blanket for a romantic moment in the park on the square, or indulge in a French meal on the rustic outdoor patio at The Girl & the Fig .

Flights from the U.S. to Mexico are generally short and inexpensive even though the sunny destination feels a world away. The country continues to lure American honeymooners with its endless beaches, Mayan ruins, high quality of life, and low prices.

Head to Tulum , on Mexico's Riviera Maya, for a honeymoon that offers both relaxation (hello, Caribbean waters!) and adventure. Make sure you spend at least a couple days exploring the area's Mayan ruins: the Playa Ruinas in Tulum and Chichén Itzá two hours northwest. Stay at the boutique Jashita Hotel , a white-sand oasis that beckons you to relax on the beachfront lounge chairs with a cocktail in hand. You can book one of its oceanfront honeymoon suites and pass the time at the rooftop bar and adults-only infinity pool.

Offering less expensive alternatives to Thailand's famous tourist destinations, Vietnam has a little something for every kind of honeymooner. Like to hike? Visit the Valley of Love in Dalat or enjoy scenic views of the Muong Hoa Valley or Fansipan mountain in Sapa. Looking for a honeymoon filled with food and culture? Book a stay at the luxurious Sofitel Legend Metropole in Hanoi, an oasis in the center of a buzzing city.

Honeymooners interested in beaches, spa treatments, and relaxation can head to Côn Đảo, an archipelago off the coast that makes an affordable honeymoon filled with white-sand beaches and scenic trails possible. Check out Côn Đảo's Six Senses resort, which is also a protected national and marine park with plenty of beachfront.

Honolulu, Hawaii

If Hawaii tops your honeymoon list but doesn't seem feasible when it comes to cost, consider bustling Honolulu on the island of Oahu. It's a city that sits practically on the sand, providing access to the stunning (and wonderfully surfable) coast of Waikiki Beach; you can rent a board from Moku , just a block from the beach, for $30 a day (less if you keep it longer than three days). Or hop on one of the city's easy-to-use Biki bicycles to cruise the canals and coastline.

As you'd imagine, the city has hotels that fit various budgets. Honeymooners looking for direct beach access will love the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort , while those looking for a refined, modern hotel should check out the 'Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach across the street from the sand. An upscale stay can be found at the five-star Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach . You might be able to justify the extra cost by cooking meals in the in-room kitchenettes instead of dining out.

Costa Rica may be known for its lush rain forests and diverse wildlife, but the country also delivers a honeymoon-perfect beach vacation. Book your own house, condo, or studio in the coastal towns of Playa Pelada or Playa Guiones (near Nosara) through Rent Nosara . Or check out the adults-only Hotel Makanda by the Sea , which has suites and villas with ocean views and an on-site restaurant.

When you're ready to explore beyond the beach, take a yoga class in Nosara, book a zip-lining adventure, or visit Manuel Antonio National Park near Hotel Makanda.

Portugal is often overshadowed by the popular honeymoon destination on its border (Spain, of course), but it has the warm weather, beaches, and culture many couples are looking for at a fraction of the price.

For an easy, accessible trip, head to Lisbon, where you can spend your days exploring the city on foot (or by tram) in search of the city's best pastel de nata , a Portuguese egg custard tart. Stay at The One Palácio da Anunciada and book a romantic dinner at Belcanto , the first restaurant in Lisbon to earn two Michelin stars.

If you've got it in your budget for a second flight, head to the Azores islands off the coast to try your luck at spotting whales and dolphins aboard the Moby Dick .

Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada

Just across the Canadian border and about half an hour from the hustle and bustle of Niagara Falls is the quaint Niagara-on-the-Lake. Nicknamed "The Loveliest Town in Canada," it truly lives up to the hype. With a plethora of outdoor cafes and independent shops housed in colonial-style buildings, this small town is the perfect spot for a romantic stroll. It's also nestled in the heart of Canadian wine country, where you can sample ice wine and wines made from local produce like peaches.

Spend an afternoon tasting at Peller Estates followed by a romantic dinner for two among the grapes. Stay at the town's landmark hotel, Prince of Wales , a Victorian-style property that boasts an award-winning restaurant, an elegant tea room, and a full-service spa with an indoor saltwater pool.

Nicholas Schmidt/Travel + Leisure

Flights to Guatemala tend to be affordable, and once you're there, the low cost of living will keep your wallet happily padded. Prices for dining, activities, and luxe hotels are a fraction of what you'd pay in the U.S. All that aside, the country is home to volcanos, ancient Mayan sites, and lush rain forests, so there's plenty to see and do.

For a remote and romantic trip, book a stay at La Casa del Mundo on Lake Atitlan, a hotel built into the cliffs that's only accessible by foot or boat and has stunning volcano views — all for an affordable price. From La Casa del Mundo, you can hike around the lake to neighboring villages, book a boat tour, or take a day trip to the bustling Chichicastenango Market to pick up a couple of treasures to bring home.

Best budget friendly things to do in Savannah

Sep 10, 2023 • 7 min read

Exploring Savannah can be a surprisingly budget friendly endeavor © Nirian / Getty Images

Charming Savannah is a city as green as they come: recognized for its sustainability efforts, including installation of solar panels on city buildings, and lush greenery that flourishes along city streets. Let’s not forget how the city bleeds green every March to celebrate its large Irish Catholic community, too. 

As green as this southern city may be and as lavish as its architecture may seem, visitors shouldn’t think it takes a lot of green to visit the Hostess City . Thanks to a number of measures taken by city officials and tour operators, Savannah welcomes visitors from every walk of life – especially budget travelers. Outside of the many free things to do in the city , there are also affordable attractions that, for just a little spend, deliver a meaningful, memorable experience.

Average daily costs 

• Hotel room for two: $120-$160/night in downtown Savannah in the low season (Jan-Feb)
• Drip Coffee: $2-$3
• Latte: $4.50-$7
• Sandwich: $8-13 at places like Quinn’s, Clary’s Cafe; otherwise $12-$16
• Nice dinner for two: $50 per person at most popular restaurants/gastropubs (app, entree, dessert); Otherwise ~$25 per person

1. Visit in low season: January-February 

Travelers looking to snag the lowest rates on accommodations should plan to visit outside of the peak spring and summer months, from March and August. This is festival season in Savannah, which kicks off with the city’s acclaimed St Patrick’s Day celebrations that run through March, the most popular month to visit. Warm-weather festivals in nearby destinations – like Music and Taste on the Harbour  in Hilton Head and the Tybee Island Beach Bum Parade  – attract visitors for the rest of the peak season, which is then followed by hurricane season lasting through November. The early part of the year the most ideal time for budget travelers to visit. 

Beat the crowds, ‘canes and fares by planning to visit in January and February . This is an ideal time to book a romantic getaway to the Hostess City, as there are fewer crowds. The weather is cooler, and there are still plenty of events to enjoy, including the annual Martin Luther King Day Parade, Valentine’s-themed cycle races, half-marathons and performing arts events taking place.  Since the temperatures are lower, this is also a pleasant time to stroll through outdoor attractions like the Bonaventure Cemetery and Savannah National Wildlife Refuge . 

 2. Commute through the city for free 

The Chatham Area Transit has made a free trolley and ferry route available to the public. Within the historic district, the most popular area to visit, the Express Shuttle connects travelers to about 20 stops, including a stop near City Hall, where riders can switch over to the free Southern Belles Ferry . Commuters can catch free WiFi aboard the trolley as well.

The ferry shuttles commuters across the river to the Savannah Convention Center and down the river to the iconic Waving Girl Statue, which commemorates the life of one of Savannah’s historic leading ladies, Florence Martus, who greeted ships entering Savannah’s harbor with the wave of her cloth for more than 40 years.   

For a few extra bucks, visitors can take the Chatham Area Transit bus service to explore beyond the downtown area. 

3. Soak up the city’s history for a fair fare

Though it’s referred to as Free Savannah Walking Tours ,  this 90-minute guided tour requires $2-3 per person up front to cover the tour tax, and visitors are invited to pay what they feel is reasonable after the tour. Typically, a $20 gratuity is suggested. It’s well worth it for anyone who wants to get a lay of the land and learn about the various forces and events that have shaped Savannah’s history spanning more than 200 years. 

Tour guides weave from the oldest square in America’s first planned city – Johnson’s Square – to Forsyth Park Fountain, regaling visitors with stories: how Union General William T. Sherman “gifted” Savannah to President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War, or how American Revolutionary Catharine Greene partnered with Eli Whitney to develop the cotton gin. The tour is informative and objective, with guides presenting multiple perspectives or theories in the cases where historical facts have been unconfirmed. 

4. Go sightseeing the affordable way

Savannah is one of about 50 cities featured on the WalknTours app, an affordable walking tour app available for visitors to learn about sights at their own pace. In Savannah, two tours are offered: The Old Squares of Savannah, starting at Johnson Square, and The Ghosts of Savannah, a haunted walking tour starting at Moon River Brewing Company. 

Visitors can download the location-aware, audio walking tour app from App Store or Google Play and access individual tours for $6.99 each. The app allows you to even pause and save tours to listen to later if a visit is interrupted. Tours do not expire. 

5. Grab cheap eats at City Market

Stop by City Market , a quintessential open-air market housed in a complex of restored warehouses. Today, the building houses restaurants, bars, boutique shops and art galleries. It’s an ideal place to have an economical meal, like a slice of New York Style pizza at Vinnie Van Go-Go’s .

Wash it all down with some sweet Georgia wine from the Georgia Tasting Room , which offers a $3 tasting to try six of Georgia’s local wines. This includes the typical variety sourced from the region’s sweet Muscadine grapes. 

On the weekends, you can catch a live show in the City Market courtyard. 

6. Score free sweet samples 

Among City Market’s various shops is Savannah’s Candy Kitchen , tantalizing passers-by with its window of decadent desserts and colorful candies. 

If you pass by at just the right moment, you can grab a free praline sample. These luscious nut combinations, including Georgia’s typical pecans, are coated in a mixture of caramelized sugar, butter, and cream. 

If you miss your chance here, try River Street Sweets  just a few streets over, which also flaunts displays dripping of chocolate and caramel, and barrels overflowing with sugary bonbons. 

7. Save money on attractions through the museum passes

Georgia’s Coastal Heritage Society operates six museums in Savannah. They offer a “See 3 Sites” Pass providing complete access to three museums of your choosing for a discounted single pass price of $21 (tickets to each are normally $10 per adult). History lovers can enter, leave and return to a site anytime within the same day. Each museum covers a different aspect of the region’s heritage. 

For example, Savannah History Museum takes visitors on a chronological journey of the city’s past beginning in prehistoric times. Special sections of the museum pay tribute to Savannah’s rich jazz culture and cotton textiles, which drove much of the economic growth. An interactive area allows children to touch, feel, and interpret what they saw. On weekends, costumed educators take tourists outside to the battlefield of the 1779 Siege of Savannah. 

From here, one could head one mile out of town to the state’s oldest standing brick fortification, Old Fort Jackson , to see live cannon firings twice a day. Guides here dress up in uniforms of different eras based on the time of year. 

Meanwhile, at the Pinpoint Heritage Museum , a former oyster and crab factory, visitors get a glimpse into the lives of the Gullah/Geechee community. The museum’s exhibits focus more on the people who kept this business thriving, rather than the factory itself. Tour guides were born and raised in the community, and some are fluent in Gullah, a Creole language with elements from various West African languages.

For art and architecture lovers, Telfair Museums are the way to go. A regular ticket for $25 provides admission to all three museums operated by Telfair. Each of their buildings features a unique architectural design (modern, neoclassical, Regency styles) and houses distinct art collections and furnishings. 

8. Check the Visit Savannah website for deals 

While budget travelers might be used to checking sites like Hotels.com or Kayak.com for deals, perusing the Visit Savannah website is a must. This is the destination marketing arm of the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce, and it works with its member businesses to promote the growth of its local economy. Its website features some of the best deals offered by hotels, restaurants, tour operators and recreational vendors, so visitors can take advantage of spa discounts, cheaper tee-times, affordable accommodations and economically-priced tours. 

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Best cheap couples getaways for 2024.

Deciding to go on a romantic getaway with your sweetheart is easy, but picking a destination that's both romantic and affordable can be a challenge. That's why U.S. News considered prices for accommodations, attractions and dining to compile this list of the best cheap couples getaways. These top-notch destinations are both romantic and budget-friendly, offering plenty of affordable things to do and places to stay with your partner. Do these vacation spots spark romance for you? Let us know by voting below.

Cannon Beach

San miguel de allende, niagara falls, glacier national park, victoria & vancouver island, puerto rico, the finger lakes, asheville, nc, colorado springs, portland, me.

You came for the fascinating Mayan ruins, but you'll stay for the white sand beaches and spectacular swimming sinkholes, known as cenotes. Spend the day lounging on palm-lined Playa Paraíso, then cuddle up to your sweetheart at night in an affordable boutique hotel or luxurious glamping tent, many of which offer amenities like king-sized beds, bike rentals and Wi-Fi access. Plus, Tulum's restaurant scene offers budget-friendly fare in boho-chic settings. Couples heading to Tulum between May and November will enjoy fewer crowds and cheaper room rates, but keep in mind that these months are notorious for sweltering temperatures and frequent rain showers.

Savannah, Georgia, has no shortage of fanciful things to do. Couples can stroll beneath Spanish moss-laden trees at Forsyth Park, browse for souvenirs at the City Market or drive to nearby Tybee Island to relax on the beach – all for free. Lovebirds can also go on a spooky ghost tour to learn all about Savannah's history. When hunger strikes, skip River Street and opt for the various unsuspecting diners and counter-service shops dishing out authentic but cheap Southern eats. To save some cash on accommodations, find a hotel outside of the Historic District or consider a vacation rental.

Located about 80 miles northwest of Portland, Oregon, Cannon Beach ups the romance factor with breathtaking scenery, intimate restaurants and cozy bed-and-breakfasts. Couples can spend misty mornings exploring the quaint art galleries and shops in town, and beer enthusiasts can also visit several of Cannon Beach's breweries featured on the North Coast Craft Beer Trail. Plus, duos who love the outdoors will enjoy hiking nearby trails or strolling the wide sandy beaches, where they can spot tufted puffins on Haystack Rock or migrating gray whales every spring and winter.

With its pastel-hued facades, cobblestone streets and the tolling of bells from Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, San Miguel de Allende exudes magic at every corner. Though the plane tickets may not be cheap, once you arrive with your sweetheart you'll find inexpensive boutique hotels and affordable, authentic cuisine. Spend your days exploring art galleries, people-watching in lush parks and admiring the neo-Gothic architecture. And be sure to share a chocolate-dipped churro from San Agustín Chocolates and Churros in El Jardín, the city's main square. Skip the pricey (albeit beautifully curated) boutiques and shop at the bustling Mercado de Artesanías for handcrafted souvenirs.

Once referred to as the "Honeymoon Capital of the World," Niagara Falls is a prime choice for adventurous twosomes who don't mind a bit of kitsch. Don ponchos and marvel at the falls aboard a Maid of the Mist boat tour , and don't miss coming back at night (on the Canadian side) to see them illuminated. Couples can also escape the crowds and test out the region's famous ice wine. Save some cash on your weekend getaway by staying on the less developed New York side of the falls.

While outdoorsy couples can hike the trails in Red Rock State Park, those looking for more peace and quiet can retreat to one of Sedona's wellness resorts for a couples massage or a soak in the hot tub, or kick up their feet on a scenic train ride on the Verde Canyon Railroad. When it comes to dining, snag a spot at an intimate restaurant that offers alfresco tables and excellent views. You'll likely want to visit in fall, winter or spring to avoid this Arizona destination's notorious summer heat, though winter will be the best option for cheap room rates.

Budget-conscious lovebirds who enjoy breathtaking landscapes, challenging hikes and waking up early for picture-perfect sunrises over the lake should put Glacier National Park at the top of their travel bucket list. Scenic spots to explore in this Montana national park include Lake McDonald, the Trail of the Cedars and Grinnell Glacier. Skip the hotel and opt for a tent instead to save big bucks and get the chance to watch for shooting stars. You can always stop in for a post-hike drink at some of the area's more iconic lodges to take in the views without the room rate.

One of Canada's more underrated spots, Vancouver Island is home to British Columbia's capital city of Victoria. Couples can explore Victoria's historical charm, blooming gardens and sprawling parks by day, indulge in high tea in the afternoon and then sit down for a romantic dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant by night. Those looking for a more remote getaway can venture to Tofino for its enchanting forests and prime whale watching opportunities. No matter where you're based, consider an intimate stay at a boutique hotel, an inn or a bed-and-breakfast to relax, reconnect.

Wine-loving duos who don't want to splurge on a Napa getaway should consider Sonoma. Often described as Napa's more relaxed, affordable sibling, Sonoma is chock-full of laid-back vineyards , secluded resorts and country inns. When couples need a break from sipping vino, they can head to Sonoma Coast State Park to trek through the trails that crisscross the park and admire the spectacular California scenery. Or, save some coin on dining by packing a picnic to enjoy at Lake Sonoma Recreation Area.

If you're craving a dreamy Caribbean retreat without the pricey airfare or the need for a passport, consider the island of Puerto Rico. This colorful destination is home to a smattering of beachfront resorts, but it also features stunning natural wonders like El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. The charmingly vibrant Old San Juan is perfect for relaxing dinners, street dancing and evening strolls with your sweetheart, or opt to stay in Rincón for its seclusion and postcard-worthy sunsets.

New York's Finger Lakes area is one of the top wine regions in the country, and it's an easy vacation spot to reach from much of the East Coast and parts of the Midwest. The fee for tastings at the wineries is often small in comparison to other regions. This scenic destination is also equal parts romantic and affordable thanks to its variety of cozy cabin rentals, waterfront dining venues and fun outdoor activities to do together year-round (think: hiking and biking in the warmer months and skiing in the winter).

Fall foliage along the Appalachian Trail and Blue Ridge Parkway transform this quaint North Carolina mountain town into a rustic retreat. You can save money by choosing a bed-and-breakfast instead of a luxury resort, and free activities abound, such as hiking or stargazing. Tickets don't come cheap for the city's top attraction, the Biltmore Estate, but you can get your money's worth with a full day of touring the ornate Biltmore House and weaving through the prolific gardens. What's more, Asheville's revered dining scene remains unfussy, so you're sure to find barbecue joints and taco shops that won't break the bank.

Sitting about 70 miles south of Denver, Colorado Springs offers mountain town allure at a lower price point than its northern neighbor. The area's must-visit natural attraction, Garden of the Gods Park, is completely free to visit and offers hiking, biking and rock climbing. Once couples have worked up an appetite, they can tuck into hearty fare at more than 20 cozy craft breweries or other buzzworthy dining options . Then, dance the night away at one of the low-key live music venues the city has to offer.

When you and your significant other aren't exploring the charming cobblestone streets of Old Port, admiring the Victorian-era architecture in West End or perusing eclectic galleries in the Arts District, steal away to one of Portland, Maine's secluded beaches for a quiet shoreline stroll. If your heart isn't set on lobster, you can find affordable casual dining spots ranging from sandwich shops and diners to taquerias. For the cheapest rates, plan a winter visit and curl up by the fireplace in your shingled seaside cottage or inn.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Sanibel Island

Texas Hill Country

Quebec City

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