cheapest places to visit in budget

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21 Cheap Places to Travel in 2024

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

There are many factors to consider when planning a vacation, from finding cheap places to travel and the safety of your intended destination to hotel options . But like it or not, there’s one thing that influences our travel decisions more than anything else: money. All those resort fees, plane tickets , and life-changing meals add up pretty quickly—so at the end of the day, we really want to prioritize places where our greenbacks have the most spending power.

We did a little digging to find the countries where the U.S. dollar goes the furthest, based on current exchange rates. And while our fickle global economy means those rates can change at any time, certain places have consistently offered more bang for our buck over the years—and, fingers crossed, they should stay that way well into 2024 .

Without further ado, here are 21 of the best cheap places to travel around the world.

Budapest, Hungary

1 USD = 351.21 HUF

Hungary’s favorable economy is great news for anyone planning a trip to Budapest , where a growing scene of Michelin-starred restaurants and high-tech spas are calling to us from across the globe. The city just celebrated its 150th anniversary in November 2023, which means there are even more reasons to visit during the next calendar year, including the newly reopened Chain Bridge and the brand-new House of Music Hungary . Be sure to book a room at the art deco W Budapest —formerly a palace and on a UNESCO World Heritage-listed street—which opened in July 2023 opposite the Hungarian State Opera.

South Korea

1 USD = 1,301.45 KRW

While other travelers head to the popular tourist destinations of Seoul , Busan, and Jeju Island, we have our eyes set on another South Korean city: Mokpo , located in the Jeolla region at the southern tip of the peninsula. The port city offers some of the most interesting dining in the country, and specialty dishes like hongeo (a naturally fermented, extremely pungent skate-fish dish) attract food lovers from around the world.

1 USD = 17.22 MXN

Mexico is consistently one of our favorite places to travel on a budget. In Mexico City , with a street food culture rivaled only by its forward-looking restaurant scene, you’ll be spending most of your money on eats. But make sure to leave some bucks to visit all the cultural wonders the city has to offer, starting with the iconic Museo Jumex . If you’re looking to go a little farther afield, head to Jalisco to see tequila being made at the source, or Isla Holbox for a sleepy beach scene.

An eagle hunter riding near the Altai Mountains in Mongolia.

1 USD = 3,449.69 MNT

We’ve long been fans of Mongolia for its seemingly limitless expanses and adventure camps—and the fact that travel here costs as little as $75 per day (including accommodations). The country is on a mission to lure even more travelers into its borders in 2024, with upcoming initiatives like its first-ever direct US flight and visa-free travel for dozens of nationalities. You can also expect even more offbeat cultural experiences next year: Local operator Breanna Wilson is expanding her 2024 tours to include a digital nomad week, a women-only retreat in Orkhon Valley, and a three-day archery training session.

1 USD = 24,275.00 VND

Plenty of countries in Southeast Asia are great deals for dollar carriers right now, but we recommend a trip to Vietnam—in part because of the steadily increasing exchange rate, but mostly for the country’s mind-blowing beauty. Hanoi is arguably the most romantic city in the region, but don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten track during your next visit: Places like Ninh Van Bay and Phú Quốc island have pristine beaches and intimate resorts you won’t find in the more touristed areas.

1 USD = 4.94 BRL

Like much of South America, Brazil is a good place to visit if you don’t want to break the bank. But the fact that a dollar gets you nearly five Brazilian reals means you can get even better value than usual. Rio de Janeiro is the most obvious place to spend time and money, with incredible restaurants—like Lasai , a 2023 Hot List winner—just steps away from some of the world’s best beaches . But don't forget to visit São Paulo , too, where a younger generation has introduced hip galleries, museums, and bars to several long-neglected neighborhoods.

South Africa

1 USD = 18.30 ZAR

The value of the South African rand has fluctuated a lot over the past few years, but we’re pretty happy with where it is today. (To compare, one U.S. dollar only got you 8.57 ZAR 10 years ago.) Stretch those bucks on the Test Kitchen ’s 21-course tasting menu in Cape Town , then head into the wilderness at Singita Castleton Lodge in the Sabi Sand game reserve.

Traditional stilt fishermen in Sri Lanka

1 USD = 327.31 SLR

The Sri Lankan rupee has slowly gotten more and more favorable over the past couple of decades, but it completely skyrocketed starting a couple of years ago (a dollar converted to 200 SLR in February 2022, and now look where we are). We’re more excited than ever to explore this incredible island nation, where you can see leafy tea plantations, Buddhist temples, golden beaches, and 200-mile hiking trails in one memorable trip.

1 USD = 525.96 CRC

The Costa Rican colón has depreciated a bit in recent months, but it remains favorable for US travelers. Then there’s the fact that the country’s best asset (i.e. its natural beauty) is mostly free to enjoy. From trekking through the tropical cloud forests in the mountains of Alajuela to surfing off the coast of Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica is one of the world’s best countries for outdoor adventure. (And the hotels are pretty great , too.)

Philippines

1 USD = 55.89 PHP

We’re never not dreaming about island hopping in the Phillippines. It’s hard to believe that places like Palawan and Siargao are so economically accessible, given that they are some of the most beautiful places on the planet. Even five-star resorts like Shangri-La Boracay can be reserved for under $350 per night, which is all the incentive we need to book a trip right now.

1 USD = 4,580 MGA

For your next tropical island vacation, skip pricey, popular locations like the Maldives and Bora Bora for inexpensive Madagascar—an Indian Ocean treasure filled with breathtaking rainforests and lemur-filled national parks. Plan your visit around the opening of Namoroka Tsingy Exploration Camp ( scheduled for mid-2024 ), which will feature seven luxury safari tents inside the essentially unvisited Namoroka National Park. Alternately, swing by the island nation as part of a cruise itinerary: Luxe cruise lines like Silversea , Lindblad , Swan Hellenic , and Seabourne have all added the country as a port of call on new voyages.

Cairo, Egypt.

1 USD = 30.93 EGP

Following in the footsteps of pharaohs in Egypt feels like it should be expensive, but the Egyptian pound has skyrocketed this year—that means touring the Pyramids, cruising the Nile, and exploring Cairo has never been more affordable. We’re excited to check out relatively new openings, like St. Regis Cairo and the beach villas at Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria . And we’ve been anxiously awaiting the official opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum for years now, but it looks like it might actually happen in 2024.

1 USD = 4.67 MYR

Your cash will stretch far in Malaysia, especially if you fill up on street food and explore cities like Kuala Lumpur on foot. It’s also inexpensive (or in some cases, free) to visit the country’s pristine beaches, limestone caves, and some of the most beautiful tea plantations. If you’re ready and willing to shell out the big bucks, however, we highly recommend shacking up at The Datai Langkawi —it’s definitely expensive but wholly worth it.

1 USD = 83.04 INR

India has always been a cheap travel destination; now that you can get 83 rupees to the dollar, however, the country is more affordable than ever. Hotels run the gamut from $60-per-night bungalows to pricy Oberoi and Six Senses outposts, plus hundreds of options in between. But as long as you don’t hole up in your resort the entire time, you can visit plenty of attractions and dine at local restaurants on an extremely tight budget.

1 USD = 107.45 RSD

Belgrade continues to emerge as one of Europe’s most exciting cultural epicenters, but it’s massively less expensive than, say, Paris or Berlin (at least for now). It’s relatively easy to find hotels under $100, though accommodations aren’t all that important when you spend all night dancing in clubs around the city. But you will want to get some rest to explore Belgrade’s wealth of museums and contemporary art installations, many of which just opened in the past few years .

Ohrid, North Macedonia

North Macedonia

1 USD = 56.44 MKD

Perhaps it’s because the coastal countries get all the attention, but North Macedonia remains one of the most criminally underrated (and therefore affordable) countries in Europe. The landlocked nation is a sleeper hit for those in the know, especially if you head to the charming city of Ohrid. It has all the cobbled streets and quaint churches one would expect from a European town, with the added advantage of being right on the shores of the incredibly gorgeous and biodiverse Lake Ohrid.

1 USD = 132.92 NPR

Nepal is one of the cheapest countries to visit for all travelers, but the U.S. dollar is particularly strong there right now. Most people immediately associate Nepal with Mt. Everest, but the tiny nation has much more to offer than bucket-list climbs. Kathmandu is overwhelming at first, but it hides some great hotels and museums once you start digging. Bhaktapur and Patan—both close by in the Kathmandu Valley—are a bit more low-key but still packed with culture.

1 USD = 66.99 GMD

It may be continental Africa’s smallest country but don’t you dare overlook the Gambia . The ultra-affordable nation has long been a coveted spot for wildlife enthusiasts, but it’s starting to rise in the ranks as both a food destination and luxury cruise port of call .

1 USD = 15,556.65 IDR

Despite the post- Eat, Pray, Love influx of tourists, Indonesia remains an affordable vacation spot overall. While millions of people flock to Bali (where resort prices are steep in response), you can enjoy a much cheaper and more peaceful trip on the islands of Sumba and Lombok. And don’t forget about Jakarta, where a solid day includes filling up on greasy noodles and nasi goreng gila from makeshift street stalls—all for just a couple of US bucks.

Beach near Ksamil, Albania.

1 USD = 93.95 ALL

Albania is much less expensive than other European countries—and it’s a bit under the radar as a tourist destination, which means there’s still a chance to visit before the word gets out and the crowds descend. One of the most enticing reasons to plan a trip is the food: Picture tables filled with rosemary-scented lamb, tart mountain cheeses, blackened sea bass, and bottles of fruit juices. In Tirana, book a stay at Agroturizëm Gjepali , a restaurant turned hotel with river views and doubles starting at just $70.

1 USD = 12,375.00 UZS

Uzbekistan is still on the up-and-up when it comes to foreign travel, which makes it one of the most exciting and affordable destinations in Central Asia. The major cities are filled with both intricate mosques and brutalist monuments—all free to explore—and you’ll be hard-pressed to spend more than $5 per meal at restaurants. There aren’t too many name-brand hotels set up yet, but even places like the Hyatt Regency Tashkent have nightly rates below $170.

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The 31 Cheapest Places to Travel in 2024

05/01/2024 by Kristin Addis 90 Comments

Which countries offer the most value? Where can you travel to in 2024 that will allow you to go for longer, enjoy a higher standard, and save more money?

The following are 31 destinations around the world that offer the essentials — accommodation, transportation, and food — for less:

Table of Contents

Our Favorite Cheap Destinations Quick List:

Best in Southeast Asia for Food: Vietnam
Best in Southeast Asia for Beaches: Philippines
Best in Asia for Hiking: Kyrgyzstan
Best in Europe for Food: Greece
Best in Europe for Beaches: Croatia
Best in Europe for Quaint Towns: Estonia
Best in Europe for Smaller Crowds: Georgia
Best in the Americas: Guatemala
Best for Safari: South Africa

1. Laos, $30/day

Back in my budget backpacking days around Southeast Asia , Laos was one of the two destinations where I was able to keep my budget at $30/day, even though accommodations were slightly more expensive than most places in Southeast Asia at that time. Many of the amazing activities you can do in Laos are very affordable. For example, I paid $2.50 to see one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world, $7 for a full-day tubing experience along the Vang Vieng river, and $6 for an awesome tiger-balm massage. You can also rent an inexpensive motorbike and venture off to smaller towns, where everything is even cheaper!

With more and more new hostels built to cater to the increasing number of backpackers, you can go for less money and for longer. However, if you have a bit more to spend, you can get a gorgeous room for closer to $35/night, which would easily cost $100 in the US.

Meals: $3–9 per day. Some hostels provide a basic breakfast
Accommodation: $5-10 per night in a hostel
Transportation: $6–15 for a motorbike for the day (prices may vary depending on the bike condition and your haggling skills), or up to $25 for an intercity bus ticket
SIM card with data: $6 for 1.5GB with 30-day validity

– Read More –

A Complete Guide to Laos

2. Vietnam, $30/day

The Cheapest Travel Destinations In the World in 2024

I probably had the healthiest and cheapest street food in Vietnam . Think soup with rice noodles, cilantro, amazing broth, and a whole shank of pork for $1.50, or a cup of strong, aromatic coffee for $1. Regarding transportation, if you rent a motorbike, you are all set for the day. However, I understand that not everyone is comfortable riding one, especially in countries like Vietnam, where the traffic can be overwhelmingly chaotic. The good news is that GrabBike (similar to Uber but on bikes!) is widely available in all major cities, and the cost is as low as $0.50 for a 2km ride! Long-distance buses and trains are also affordable and reliable. Accommodation is similarly pleasant and easier to afford than almost anywhere else in the world.

Meals: $5–12 per day. Some hostels provide a basic breakfast.
Transportation: $8–15 for motorbike rental or GrabBike trips

The Ultimate Backpacking Vietnam Route Planner

A Complete Guide to Vietnam

3. Cambodia, $30/day

I know for sure that if you choose to rough it, you can easily spend a month in Cambodia with just $1000. Dorms are very basic but can be dirt cheap; the same goes for food and alcohol. I also had my haggling skills to thank, as I was almost always able to talk my way out of being charged unfairly by tuk-tuk drivers. There are some one-off expenses, such as the three-day pass to Angkor Wat, which is currently set at $62, and diving trips that add up, but there will also be days of riding a bicycle in a small village and eating cheap and delicious meat skewers when just a dollar or two could stretch very far.

Another thing is to consider the gorgeous, mostly new boutique hotels on Booking.com . They are obviously not as cheap as staying in hostels, but for the price, they are so worth it! I’d definitely splurge on a couple of nights and have some R&R time by the pool.

READ NEXT: 23 Cheapest 5-Star Hotels around the World

Meals: $5–10 per day. Some hostels provide breakfast.
Accommodation: $5-15 per night in a hostel
Transportation: $6-15 for a motorbike for the day (prices may vary depending on the bike condition and your haggling skills) or for an intercity bus ticket
SIM card with data : $2 for 1.5GB with 30-day validity (yes, it is that cheap!)

A Perfect Cambodia Itinerary

A Complete Guide to Cambodi a

4. Northern Thailand, $32/day

The north of Thailand is easy on a tight budget. As one moves south, costs for accommodation start to double, triple, and even quadruple. Stay up north if you are short on time and money for your Thailand trip. Even in popular places like Chiang Mai and Pai , you can easily find basic dorms for less than $7/night. If you stick with eating street food (to each her own, but why eat pasta when you can have pad thai, am I right?), not only will you save yourself some money, the experience will be much more authentic and tasty, too.

As far as activities go, you really do not need a lot of money to enjoy your day, as most activities such as visiting the White Temple, hiking, or gathering three other people from your hostel to rent a car and go on some day trips , are all affordable.

Meals: $5–15 per day. Some hostels provide breakfast
Transportation: $6-10 for a motorbike for the day (prices may vary depending on the bike condition and your haggling skills) or a rental car split between four people
SIM card with data: $7 for 1.5GB with 30-day validity. See the best SIM cards in Thailand .

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A Complete Guide to Thailand

5. Indonesia, $35/day

The thing about Indonesia is that it can be really cheap , or it can be quite expensive, depending on one big thing: transportation. Intercity traveling can be very time-consuming and costly, as is traveling from one island to another in a private boat. To save costs, stick with one region or two. There’s a lot to do and see , and spending more time in one place will allow you to travel deeper and have a more meaningful experience anyway. If you want to travel far and wide on a budget, my biggest tip is to take local transportation!

On the flip side, food and drinks are cheap throughout the country, not to mention absolutely yummy too! Riding a scooter through the mountains costs very little, and so does hiking, chasing waterfalls, and slouching in a hammock by the beach all day long. Hostels are plentiful, social, and affordable, especially in places like the Gili Islands .

Meals: $5–15 per day. Some hostels provide breakfast.
Accommodation: $7-15 per night in a hostel
Transportation: $8–15 for a motorbike for the day (prices may vary depending on the bike condition and your haggling skills)
SIM card with data: $5 for 2GB with 30-day validity

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A Complete Guide to Indonesia

6. The Philippines, $37/day

The Philippine archipelago can cost quite a lot of money and time to get around, and the hostel options aren’t nearly as abundant as in other Southeast Asia countries. While these two factors seem like a big turn-off for travelers trying to stretch their budget as far as possible, there are ways to keep your costs there low. If you choose to travel during shoulder seasons, book your flights and plan your journey way in advance (it is not the country to always wing it!), and try to stick within 1-2 regions, the Philippines can still be affordable.

On top of that, the country has some of the most gorgeous islands , beautiful dive sites, affordable group island-hopping tours , and hidden gems that you’d have had to pay so much more to experience in other parts of the world. In that sense, the Philippines is worth every peso you spend.

Accommodation: $7-20 per night in a hostel
Transportation: $10–15 for a motorbike for the day (prices may vary depending on the bike condition and your haggling skills) or $15–20 for a boat ride from one island to another
SIM card with data: $6 for 2GB with 30-day validity

The Perfect Philippines Itinerary

A Complete Guide to the Philippines

7. Malaysia, $40/day

Being one of the most economically developed Southeast Asian countries, Malaysia is often perceived as expensive . On top of that, when I visited for the first time, a few people told me it wasn’t worth staying long. However, I ended up meeting lots of locals, was more able to communicate , and found more common ground with them than I had in Cambodia or Laos. I also had so much fun exploring Cameron Highlands, the jungles of Borneo , and the gorgeous islands.

The cherry on top? They were all affordable . An overnight bus from Kuala Lumpur to the Perhentian Islands costs as little as $15. There are also so many interesting local neighborhoods and markets that are free to explore. Finally, Malaysian cuisine is like no other — you can find food from just about any culture, and it’s so cheap and tasty (but not necessarily healthy). Malaysia is also one of the cheapest places in the world to get a PADI scuba diving certificate .

The one thing that could make Malaysia expensive to travel in is alcohol, which is highly taxed. However, if you don’t plan on drinking every night, or maybe consider staying sober during your trip, that will not be an issue.

Meals: $5–10 per day. Some hostels provide breakfast
Accommodation: $7–15 per night in a hostel
Transportation: $5–7 for a full day of train and bus rides, or $15–20 for an overnight intercity bus ride
SIM card with data: $8 for 2GB with 30-day validity

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A Complete Guide to Malaysia

8. Sri Lanka, $35/day

Like many countries, Sri Lanka can be seen on a backpacker budget , or one can spend a small fortune there. The biggest kicker was the price of activities, such as safaris, and admission into the UNESCO World Heritage sites. With each running about $40-$50 per ticket, this made Sri Lanka more expensive to fully explore.

That said, Sri Lanka can be done on closer to $30 per day on the days that you don’t pay for expensive activities. Food, transport, accommodation, and the internet are relatively cheap. One thing to note about transportation is that in some cases, taking a taxi or Uber (in major cities) can be cheaper than renting a bike. Hiring a driver for the day can be as low as $5 per person if you can find people in your hostel to split the cost. The cheapest transportation is the train, which is delightful and (IMO) the best way to travel through Sri Lanka.

Accommodation: $8–15 per night in a hostel
Transportation : $15–20 per person for a private car and driver split between four people, or $3–5 for a second-class cabin train ride between cities
SIM card with data: $2 for 1.5GB with 30-day validity (yes, it is that cheap!)

Sri Lanka’s Best Plac es to Visit

A Complete Guide to Sri Lanka

9. Nepal, $25/day ($15/day if trekking)

Nepal is a very cheap country to travel through, with most food, accommodation, and transport running just a few dollars if you eat, sleep, and travel using local options. The street food in Nepal does not have the best reputation, though I never seem to get any stomach problems eating it. You can get cheap and delicious home-cooked meals in local-run small cafés though.

Be very mindful when you book your accommodation online, as big corporations have taken over homestays and turned them into boutique hotels and resorts, so the “local guesthouses” you’ve booked may very well be part of a big hotel chain. I suggest booking the first couple of nights online, and looking for accommodation from real local guesthouses when you arrive.

If you end up trekking , as long as you do so independently and avoid Mt. Everest itself, which costs tens of thousands of dollars, you can travel for as cheap as $10 per day on food and accommodation at the lower elevations, and closer to $20 USD at higher elevations on popular routes like the Annapurna Circuit .

Accommodation : $7–12 per night in a local guesthouse
Transportation: $10–15 per person for a private car and driver split between four people, or a local bus ride between cities
SIM card with data: $3 for 1.25GB with 30-day validity (yes, it is that cheap!)

A Complete Guide to N epa l

10. Taiwan, $45/day

Two words: street food, which is delectable and ridiculously cheap. For less than $2, you can get a plate of fragrant rice with pork or chicken on top, a large deep-fried chicken chop, or a bowl of yummy vermicelli with oysters. If you are a foodie on a budget, you know where to go!

In cities like Taipei and Tainan, you can register for city bikes, which cost less than $0.50 per hour per ride and are free for the first 30 minutes. This means you can possibly get around the city all day without spending any money on transportation at all.

That said, high-end food and clothing prices in Taiwan can sometimes be at US levels. Intercity traveling is either expensive on the high-speed rail (HSR) or time-consuming (if slightly cheaper). The internet is also not as cheap as in the countries above.

Accommodation: $10–35 per night in a hostel (I highly recommend this one in Taipei !)
Transportation : $0–3 for a full day of bike, bus, and train rides, or $20–40 for an HSR ride between cities
SIM card with data: $33 for unlimited data with 28-day validity

That One Time I Became an Illegal Alien in Taiwan

11. India, $30/day

India is one of the cheapest countries to travel to, but if and only if you’re willing to haggle and hunt for deals. Keep in mind that cheap rooms that run in the $3 range will be very basic, and it’s normal to shower with buckets of heated water. You will be hard-pressed to find cheap gems in the north, but the south, with its gorgeous beaches, may prove more fruitful when it comes to budget accommodation.

The best way to travel through India on a budget is to book things yourself. This means no agents and no online booking sites (except for some intercity travel — for that, check out 12Go Asia ). Similar to Nepal, if you walk into local guesthouses, restaurants, and tour companies, you could easily get the same things in person for half the quoted price online.

Meals: $3–6 per day
Accommodation : $5–10 per night in a local guesthouse
Transportation : $1–3 for a full day of bus and train rides, or $8–30 for an intercity train ride (sometimes a domestic flight costs as little as $30, if you want to splurge without actually splurging!)
SIM card with data: $3 for 1.5GB with 30-day validity (yes, it is that cheap!)

Solo Female Travel Stories: Archana from India

12. Kyrgyzstan, $25/day

Kyrgyzstan is the country of choice for most travelers interested in trying out Central Asia, and thus most well-suited to travelers of all budgets . The cuisine is cheap and interesting, and so is getting around using the minibuses. Public transportation prices are fixed and are probably the cheapest aspect of traveling in Kyrgyzstan. If you are doing a multiday hike like the Tian Shan Mountains , the tour price should include most things.

As for accommodation, you can find hostels in major destinations and local homestays in more rural places for less than $10/night.

Meals: $4–8 per day
Accommodation: $8–12 per night in a hostel or a local guesthouse
Transportation: $0.20 for a local minibus ride, or $4 for an intercity bus ride — yep, that’s right!
SIM card with data: $3 for 3GB with 30-day validity, though I wouldn’t expect it to work in the mountains

A Quick Guide to Kyrgyzstan

13. Uzbekistan, $35/day

I bet Uzbekistan wasn’t originally on your radar when it comes to cheapest places to travel, but I’m here to tell you that it should be. This Central Asian country has so much to offer , including stunning architecture, the legendary Silk Road, and an awesome blend of old and new. And the best part? It’s incredibly budget-friendly. We’re talking $20 for food and drinks in even the fanciest of restaurants. On top of that, Uzbekistan is one of the safest countries to travel in , and the locals are known for their welcoming hospitality. Win-win!

Meals: $8–10 per day
Accommodation: $8–10 per night in a hostel dorm
Transportation: $1 for a subway day ticket in Tashkent, or $9 for a high-speed train ticket
SIM card with data: $3 for 8GB of data with 30-day validity

Things I Wish I Knew before Visiting Uzbekistan

14. Romania, $40/day

If you are planning a European trip that’s affordable and a little bit off the beaten path, Romania is perfect for you. While the country is known for Dracula, many charming towns and free activities remain unknown to most foreigners. Whether you’re taking a long stroll through the medieval villages or people-watching in one of the beautiful parks, Romania is great for anyone after a European experience on a budget. You can also make use of the free walking tours to check out the numerous historical sites.

Hostels run $10–15 per night, and the food is hearty and scrumptious (a money-saving tip: have your breakfast at the hostel, have a big hearty lunch, and cook your own dinner — it’s easy and affordable to get fresh produce from the local market, so make sure your hostel has a kitchen!). Public transportation is reliable and affordable.

Meals: $10–15 per day
Accommodation: $12–20 per night in a hostel or a local guesthouse
Transportation : $5–10 for a full day of bus and train rides
SIM card with data : $6 for 3GB with 28-day validity

The Top 14 Cheapest European Countries to Visit

15. Georgia, $30/day

Georgia is another underrated European destination that’s absolutely beautiful and affordable. Also, get this: most of you will be able to enter Georgia without a visa , and stay for one year . Say what?!

Quality hostels at a reasonable price range, a meal at a local restaurant for as low as $3, and a local minibus ride for less than $1 are just some of the great things Georgia can offer to its visitors. What’s more? Entrance fees to museums and historical sites are mostly less than $2. The locals are extremely warm and welcoming, and hitchhiking is totally possible for short and long-distance travel. There are many day trips, hikes, and monasteries in Georgia, so one can easily spend months here and not get bored. It’s perfect if you have more time than money.

Accommodation: $10–15 per night in a hostel
Transportation: $3–5 for a full day of bus and train rides, $5–10 for an intercity ride, or $0 if you hitchhike!
SIM card with data: $3 for 1GB with one-month validity

16. Greece, $45/day

Timing is crucial if you want to travel in Greece on a budget. While prices of flights, accommodation, and tours have been largely cut down since the country’s debt crisis in 2010, summer months still cost more than others. This means avoiding July and August, which are the hottest and busiest months in Greece. Instead, go a few weeks before or after summer, and you will be able to enjoy the country with smaller crowds and a lower budget. You can also cut down on food costs by buying fresh produce from the market and making your own meals, since eating out in restaurants can be expensive in certain areas. A little picnic by the gorgeous beach can be as enjoyable as a lavish meal at a seafood restaurant!

As far as activities go, opt for free walking tours, and if you are planning to do some island-hopping in Greece , plan well and stick with a group of islands to minimize transfers. Remember that sometimes a domestic flight can be cheaper than a bus ride for any long-distance travel.

Transportation : $10–15 per person for a rental car split between four people (note: scooter rental costs about $25–30/day), or $10–20 for ferry tickets around the islands
SIM card with data : $12 for 2GB with 30-day validity

Elafonisi Beach, Greece: The Ultimate Travel Guide

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17. Czechia, $40/day

As more and more tourists flock to Czechia, or more specifically Prague, for its rich history and cheaper-than-water beer, prices have inflated over the last few years. However, it is still easily one of the cheapest Central European countries to travel in, especially if you go beyond Prague, such as Český Krumlov and Telc, to experience true Czech culture at a much lower cost. Local transportation is reliable and affordable, and if you plan to do a lot of traveling, consider getting a three-day pass for $16.

Czech cuisine is very hearty and comes in large portions. While it’s not the healthiest (most meals consist of potato and meat), it will surely fill you up, so to stretch your budget: eat out at a restaurant for lunch, and have a light snack for dinner. Entrance fees to historical sites and museums can be quite expensive ($18 to enter the Prague Castle), but you don’t always have to actually enter — the hike up is awesome, and you can always admire the architecture from outside, and pick only the most intriguing destinations to go in.

Meals : $10–15 per day
Accommodation : $12–20 per night in a hostel
Transportation: $5 for a full day of tram rides, $15–20 for an intercity bus ride
SIM card with data : $13 for 2GB with one-month validity

15 of the Best European Cities to Visit in December

18. Poland, $44/day

It’s a shame that Poland is often overlooked by tourists. It’s one of those countries where you can easily spend an entire day just wandering and people-watching. There will be days when you spend nothing else but on essentials.

If you are a fan of heritage sites, Poland, rich with culture and history, has 14 to offer. It costs an average of $5 to enter museums and historical sites, which is fairly affordable by European standards. The cuisine is delicious and has a bit more variety than its neighboring countries, though it’s still heavy on the calories. (Make sure to eat at a “milk bar,” an affordable yet tasty option that’s popular with locals.)

The trains are a bit dated but cost very little. Go beyond Krakow and Warsaw, and explore other smaller towns like Gdansk, Wroclaw, and Zakopane, which are all stunning and possibly even cheaper to travel in.

Accommodation : $9–20 per night in a hostel
Transportation: $1–3 for a full day of train rides, $10–15 for an intercity train ride
SIM card with data: $3 for 2GB with one-month validity

19. Croatia, $50/day

If you like turquoise waters, sunshine, and parties, look no further than Croatia for your next budget trip. There are thousands of islands off the mainland, excellent weather from May to October, and beach and yacht parties year-round. There is also beautiful architecture to marvel at, interesting sights such as the Museum of Broken Relationships , and cute small towns to explore.

The essential expenses, including accommodation, transportation, and food, all come with a reasonable price tag. To travel in Croatia on a budget, you need a similar approach to Greece — go in the shoulder season. July and August are the country’s busiest months, so avoid them if possible. Also, keep your island-hopping to a group, to minimize transfers. Since Croatia is gaining more popularity each year, expect prices to keep rising, and aim to visit sooner than later if you want to snag a deal.

Meals: $10–15 per day. Some hostels offer complimentary breakfast.
Accommodation : $12–30 per night in a hostel
Transportation : $12–15 per person for a rental car split between four people , or $10-$15 for a ferry ride
SIM card with data : $8 for 2GB with 30-day validity

20. Turkey, $45/day

Turkey can be cheap or expensive, depending on what you want to do and how deeply you want to travel through the country. A hot-air balloon ride costs around $400–500, and intercity traveling can be really long and costly. However, there are a bunch of other bucket list–worthy items that cost way less, and if you plan your route well, it is definitely possible, if not easy, to travel through Turkey on a budget.

The stunning Blue Mosque in Istanbul, the breathtaking white travertines in Pamukkale, and the hustling bazaars all over the country are relatively affordable to enter. While long-distance buses are expensive, if you plan well and take overnight buses, you get to save on accommodation. If you are short on time and money, stick with a city or two. Turkish food is delicious and cheap, so that’s one less thing to worry about!

Transportation : $1–3 for a taxi ride or $30–60 for an intercity overnight bus ride

21. Lithuania, $44/day

Lithuania is a small country that most travelers skip or spend at most a night or two in, just the capital city, Vilnius. However, this charming place is not only underrated but also very affordable! If you enjoy partying, the nightlife scene in Vilnius is vibrant and fun, and alcohol is fairly affordable. If you’d like a quieter experience, check out the Old Town in Kaunas, Klaipeda, and Curonian Spit. Bear in mind that outside of the capital, hostels can be hard to come by, so book in advance or even consider Couchsurfing!

Accommodation : $10–20 per night in a hostel
Transportation : $3–6 for a full day of bus rides within the city, or $15–20 for an intercity bus ride. Buses seem to be more reliable than trains in Lithuania!
SIM card with data: Get a Baltic SIM card for $7 for 3GB with 30-day validity

22. Estonia, $44/day

Nature lovers will love Estonia — 53% of the country is forested. This also means that activities like hiking and exploring the national parks are plentiful and affordable (if not completely free). The small towns are also great for walking and cycling, so transportation costs can be minimized. On that note, affordable hostels can be hard to come by in these towns, so consider basing yourself in the capital city, Tallinn, and make day trips to visit them.

Accommodation: $10–20 per night in a hostel
Transportation: $3–6 for a full day of train rides within the city, or $10–15 for an intercity train ride

23. Latvia, $47/day

Similar to Estonia, half of the country is covered in forests. There are also thousands of lakes and rivers, perfect for canoeing lovers. One can also easily spend an entire day wandering through the enchanting forests with castles hidden in them (okay, maybe not “hidden,” but this sounds dreamier, as castles should be). The best time to go to Latvia is during fall or winter, when you can canoe down the rivers with the color-changing leaves accompanying you, or when the Christmas vibe is on full display at the markets. All of these activities are affordable/free, which is why traveling in Latvia can be done on a budget.

Meals : $12–15 per day. Some hostels offer complimentary breakfast.
Accommodation: $14–25 per night in a hostel
Transportation: $2–5 for a full day of train rides within the city, or $10–15 for an intercity train ride.
SIM card with data : Get a Baltic SIM card for $7 for 3GB with 30-day validity

The Americas

24. mexico, $42/day.

From Tulum to Baja California , Mexico is full of endless adventures . This vast country is rich in culture, nature, and some of the best food in the world. Though it does not have the best reputation as far as safety goes , most violence takes place in certain areas, and Mexico has plenty of safe places to explore .

The best news? It’s easy to travel in Mexico on a budget. For less than $20, you will be able to explore at least five stunning cenotes , like the one in the picture above; for less than $3, you can devour delicious street food like tacos (I love tacos), quesadillas, and tortillas; the white-sand beaches are essentially free; and the hospitality? — priceless.

While getting around within a city is cheap, intercity traveling in Mexico can be costly, mainly because of how big the country is. The best-case scenario is to rent a car , which costs about $50–70 per day and can be split between four people. If you are backpacking Mexico solo , try to stay in the same place for a longer time to stretch the transportation costs out. That way, you are able to travel deeper and experience authentic Mexico too.

Meals: $8–15 per day. Some hostels offer complimentary breakfast
Accommodation: $10–17 per night in a hostel ( click here for the best hotels in Tulum )
Transportation: $3–5 for a full day of bus and train rides, or $30–50 for an intercity bus ride (yikes!)
SIM card with data: $10 for 2GB with a 30-day validity

Solo Female Travel Guide to Mexic o

A Complete Guide to Mexico

25. Nicaragua, $35/day

Nicaragua is one of the cheapest Central American destinations to travel in, although it’s not likely to stay that way for much longer. The country is nicknamed “the next Costa Rica ,” and we all know what that means. For now, it remains affordable, fun, and interesting, so go before the prices go up and mass tourism hits.

For outdoor lovers, Nicaragua is great for surfing, volcano hiking, and diving. For a more relaxing journey, the colonial cities are beautiful to take a stroll in, and there are plenty of gorgeous beaches to lie on all day on. the cuisine is cheap and tasty, albeit repetitive. There are hostels all over, so you don’t have to worry about finding cheap accommodation.

One thing to note is that there are unfortunately safety concerns, so check the official advisory site and be your own judge before going.

Meals: $6–10 per day. Some hostels offer complimentary breakfast
Accommodation : $5–15 per night in a hostel
Transportation : $3–5 for a full day of chicken bus rides, or $8–15 for an intercity bus ride
SIM card with data : $12 for 1GB with a 30-day validity

26. Guatemala, $38/day

For an amazing Central American adventure on a budget, check out Guatemala. A visit there is no complete without seeing the beautiful Lake Atitlán , but that’s not all — the country is covered in lush jungles, volcanos, and ruins, ideal for outdoor lovers. When you need a break from outdoor sports, colonial cities like Antigua or unique spots like Hobbitenango will capture your heart with their stunning architecture and cobblestone streets.

Local food is delightful and affordable, at about $3 for a full meal (except in Antigua, where prices are actually close to US levels).

Local transportation can be very cheap but at times confusing and risky. The locals typically take the “chicken buses,” converted school buses from North America, which are the cheapest way to get around. The buses do not have specific stops, nor is there a board with prices on it. Instead, people simply wave them down and pay the collector. Watch how much the locals are paying and do the same.

Accommodation : $10–15 per night in a hostel
Transportation: $1–3 for a full day of chicken bus rides, or $5–10 for an intercity bus ride
SIM card with data: $13 for 2GB with a 30-day validity

27. Colombia, $35/day

A colorful destination with a dark past, Colombia is fast becoming a popular affordable destination. If you are a history geek, you will love the museums and historical sites in Bogotá, the Lost City, and beyond. If you are into nature, the Amazon awaits. As for diving enthusiasts, Colombia also boasts some of the world’s best sites and gorgeous beaches. With accommodation, transportation and food being so affordable, you will have room for some occasional splurges, so consider booking a luxurious villa for a night or two — you won’t get a deal this great anywhere else in this part of the world!

Meals: $10–15 per day. Some hostels offer complimentary breakfast
Accommodation : $8–12 per night in a hostel
Transportation : $1–3 for a full day of bus rides, or $10–50 for an intercity bus ride (be sure to check the domestic flights, which can sometimes be cheaper than buses)
SIM card with data : $13 for 2GB with a 30-day validity

28. Arizona & Utah (for a road trip!), $45/day

While the US is generally not a super budget destination, if you are doing a road trip, you can definitely save in some areas and splurge in others to even out your overall budget. For my American Southwest road trip , I spent an average of $110/day , which included a camper van rental, food, gas, and camping, plus little splurges here and there. Now, it was definitely more expensive because I was solo; if you had just one other person, you’d be able to split the costs almost perfectly in half (more if you had two other people along, and so on). The more, the merrier (until you run out of room and start elbowing each other).

Some quick tips on saving money:

Get a national park pass and for $80, you will be able to get a carload of people into any national park in the US for an entire year.
Rent a camper van if you are renting a car. Then your accommodation, apart from the van fee, can be absolutely free by camping only on BLM land .
Cook your own meals! Again, renting a camper van with kitchen facilities will enable this and save you a lot of money
Meals : $12–15/day
Accommodation : free
Transportation : $9/day for a camper van split between four people
SIM card with data : $35 for 1GB with a 30-day validity

A Complete Guide to Utah

A Complete Guide to Arizona

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29. South Africa, $42/day

If you are traveling on US dollars or euros, the exchange rate alone will do you a big favor. At this time of writing, one South African Rand is equal to six cents US.

Any hostel, guesthouse, or tourist accommodation in South Africa is called a “backpackers,” and they are typically in beautiful settings and have a unique personality, not to mention they are affordable too . Food is where the big budget eater or saver can be, as it can get expensive in South Africa. To save money, cook your own food. Grocery stores are plentiful and have reasonable prices. By at least preparing your own breakfast and the occasional dinner, you can save a lot.

Unfortunately, public transportation outside of Johannesburg and Cape Town can be pretty limited. While there are a few private companies and trains that provide transportation around the country, the best (and possibly) cheapest way to get around is to rent a car and share with three other people, and go on an epic road trip together.

Meals : $12–15 per day
Accommodation : $14–18 per night in a “backpackers”
Transportation : $9 per day for a camper van split between four people

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A Complete Guide to South Africa

30. Namibia, $45/day

Namibia is home to some of the world’s most spectacular views, including the gorgeous Sossusvlei , the hauntingly beautiful Deadvlei, and the massive Fish River Canyon, just to name a few. At first glance, Namibia may not seem like a budget destination, as most accommodations cater to the luxury category, and transportation from one place to another can be limited in such a vast country. However, you just need to do things a little bit differently to save a lot of money.

The most important thing is to choose to camp instead of staying in a lodge. The luxury lodges cost about $50–200 per night, but you can camp at their sites for about $8–10 per night; government campsites will set you back about $15–18 per night. As for transportation, ideally you would want to rent a 4×4 and share it with a few people to split the cost. If your accommodation comes with a communal kitchen, make full use of it as cooking your own meals will definitely save you money. Entrance fees are generally cheap!

Accommodation : $8–18 per night
Transportation : $15–18 per day for a 4×4 split between four people
SIM card with data: $16 for 1.5GB with a 60-day validity

The Perfect Namibia Road Trip Itinerary

A Complete Guide to Namibia

31. Egypt, $30/day

Pyramids, ancient temples, and royal palaces once inhabited by pharaohs make Egypt seem like it would come at a high price. However, the reality is that this Middle Eastern country can be surprisingly affordable for travelers. One of the biggest expenses in Egypt is getting there, but with some planning and flexibility, you can find decently priced flights to Cairo or Luxor. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll find that hostels and guest houses, food, and transportation costs are surprisingly affordable, especially if you avoid resort cities like Hurghada.

Meals : $3–5 per meal
Accommodation : $10–15 per night for a dorm room
Transportation : $0.50 for a ride on a local bus
SIM card with data : $2.81 for 12GB with a 30-day validity

Is Egypt Safe?

How Low Can You Go?

The suggested budget above includes basic accommodation, transportation, and three meals, with a mix of simple breakfasts, hearty lunches, and light dinners, as well as Internet and one paid activity for the day. You will need to add on the other costs, like shopping, alcohol, and little splurges here and there to understand how much exactly is needed.

Some may want to dive or ski, which are typically higher-cost activities, and some just want to walk around and explore neighborhoods. If you are on a shoestring budget, the suggested budgets can be cut down further should you choose to couchsurf, hitchhike, and skip certain activities.

Are there any destinations that you would add to this list? Let us know in the comments below!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

20 Best Cheap Places to Travel in 2024

Explore a national park, see a space shuttle launch or even leave the country with these safe, family-friendly vacation destinations.

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It’s true that those bucket-list destinations might have to move to a back burner for many travelers due to financial considerations. That doesn’t mean they need to sit at home, though. More people are turning to smaller cities, national parks, and other destinations they’ve never considered as they plan their next adventure.

Utilizing chain hotels with reward programs is one way travelers can save money, as is choosing cabins or condos with kitchens. Every fourth grader in America (and their family) is eligible for a free National Parks pass , as are people with disabilities and military members. Travel does not need to be expensive to be valuable. The benefit of looking at travel through this lens is that these locations are still packed with amenities and attractions at a lower price point. Check out some of the best cheap places to travel in 2023 that might not be on your radar — yet. I was lucky enough to be invited as press by many of the locations, and got to explore all the fun they have to offer firsthand.

Looking for more unique travel ideas? Good Housekeeping's Family Travel Awards features top-tested locations, based on data from travel experts and real families.

Lassen Volcanic National Park, California

California draws thousands of tourists each year to its most widely-known national parks, like Yosemite and Joshua Tree . They are fabulous, but the state is also home to Lassen Volcanic National Park . Located in the Cascade Mountains, Lassen has everything that visitors could need within the park, including lodging, junior ranger programs and dining options. Most visitors camp or stay at cabins or the guest ranch located within the park, but neighboring towns have a slew of motels and chain hotels that are incredibly affordable. According to Priceline , the average hotel room near Lassen costs around $116. There are also some kitschy properties like the River Inn , which evokes Schitt’s Creek vibes, for around $80 bucks a night.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

an aerial shot of pittsburgh, a good housekeeping pick for best cheap places to travel

An example of Rust Belt Revival, the steel city has worked hard to shed its smoggy skies and expose its award-winning skyline . With more than 400 bridges and steeper streets than San Francisco, the city often surprises first-time tourists with how vast it is and how much there is to do. Pittsburgh is home to Mr. Roger’s legacy and is still the filming location for Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood . Stop by The Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh to pose by Roger’s iconic shoes and explore four floors of hands-on activities. There are also Carnegie Museums , a Smithsonian location and the National Aviary to explore. An influx of tech and medical sector workers has kicked the local food scene up a notch, too. While in town, every tourist must ride the Duquesne Incline to the top of Mount Washington to absorb that stellar skyline. An average domestic plane ticket to Pittsburgh costs around $280.

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Badlands, South Dakota

a family poses for a photo by a rock formation in badlands national park, a good housekeeping pick for best cheap places to travel

Most Americans have seen a photo of Mount Rushmore, but more than half have never been there. While stopping by the mountain carving is a cool photo opp, the Badlands of South Dakota have so many other attractions to visit in addition. It’s also ultra-affordable, with an average hotel price of under $100. The Crazy Horse Memorial is an impressive rock carving — still uncompleted — honoring the Lakota leader who fought back against colonization. Badlands National Park is one of the richest fossil beds in the world, making it particularly enticing for dinosaur lovers. Every visitor to the Badlands is also required (unofficially, of course) to stop by Wall Drug , the rambling curiosities shop that attracts millions of visitors each year.

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, West Virginia

a water park in west virginia, a good housekeeping pick for best cheap places to travel

Of America’s 63 national parks, New River Gorge is the most recent. The park is centered around the dramatic path of New River — which is, ironically, one of the oldest rivers on the planet. Geared towards adventure, there are more than 1,600 climbing routes , world-class whitewater rafting and amazing fishing. There’s plenty of camping within the park and hotels averaging $100 per night in nearby Beckley. ACE Adventure Resorts has everything from luxe cabins to rustic campsites as well as whitewater tours where kids raft free with an adult ticket. Locals love Tudor’s Biscuit World — a regional chain based in West Virginia — for a hearty breakfast before outdoor adventures.

Door County, Wisconsin

A popular getaway for locals, the waterfront fun of Door County is actually a great budget option for travelers from any region. Lodging in Door County ranges from chain hotels and Airbnbs to condo communities with amenities such as The Landmark Resort , with rooms starting at around $150. From sand sculpture contests to kayak and stand-up paddleboarding rentals, there are a ton of low-key affordable and free activities in Door County. While water sports are one of the biggest draws, it’s also a great winter-time getaway for ice fishing and cross-country skiing. It’s also a great spot to curl up with a good book in front of a fire.

RELATED: The Most Unique Airbnb Properties in Every State

Panama City, Panama

Who says you can't go international on a budget? Travelers who frequent Mexico’s resort towns should try Panama City, a wallet-friendly option with so much to do. While flights from the U.S. can be a bit expensive — Priceline cites an average cost of $650 — the affordability of lodging and dining makes up for it. At Riane Aeropuerto Hotel and Casino , which has a pool with swim-up bar, outdoor games and a round-the-clock airport shuttle, a standard hotel room is around $100. Hyatt’s Hotel La Compañía , located in a former Jesuit convent in the historical cultural district, offers a luxury stay for around $350 per night — half what a comparable room would be in Cancun. Along the Amador Causeway, which has a bit of a Key West Vibe, guests can explore museums, check out a sloth preserve, bike or grab dinner at a local favorite — Fishlovers Ceviche y Bar.

Québec City, Canada

Tourists regularly flock to Canada’s two largest cities, Toronto and Montreal, when it's time to head up north. But travelers shouldn't miss their third-largest metropolis, Vieux Québec, or Old Québec City. The destination is a UNESCO World Heritage site lined with cobblestone streets and 400-year-old buildings. Don’t worry about not speaking the language: Québécois kids begin learning English in first grade and residents are happy to assist tourists. With an average hotel price of $200 per night, Quebec City is often described by visitors as having a European feel due to the architecture and French language, but at a fraction of the cost of an overseas trip.

Titusville, Florida

the apollo 16 space vehicle is launched from kennedy space center

Florida has developed a reputation for affordable oceanfront vacations, but the post-pandemic travel boom has left many top spots like Daytona and Tampa short on hotel rooms. Titusville, located near Cape Canaveral on “ The Space Coast ,” offers everything more populous beach towns do at a more affordable price. The flight to Titusville costs around $250 and hotels average just $150. The Kennedy Space Center provides a full day of space flight simulations, tours and interactive experiences for kids and adults. While rocket launches are visible from many spots in and around Titusville, Marriott has a new hotel with rooftop launch viewing. There’s also a robust ecotourism industry in the region. The Marine Discovery Center offers boat tours, exploration, and even an occasional manatee sighting.

Washington, DC

While it’s not a small city or a lesser-known vacation spot, the nation’s capital is a truly affordable vacation with endless entertainment options. The Smithsonian museums and galleries, as well as the National Zoo, are all admission-free. D.C. has a vibrant and ever-evolving food scene that is perfect for a splurge dinner during a trip, but the cafés within museums as well as the food trucks and food halls across the city are packed with options at a much lower price point. The metro system is simple to navigate, so most visitors who fly to the capital will not need to rent a car.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

the streets of downtown gatlinburg, a good housekeeping pick for best cheap places to travel

A survey by Campspot for their 2023 Outdoor Almanac ranked Great Smoky Mountains National Park as one of the top five national parks Americans hope to visit in 2023. Gatlinburg, considered the gateway to Smokies, is the perfect home base for travelers who want to explore the area. There are family-friendly campgrounds packed with amenities like Jellystone Pigeon Forge ; motels and cottages like Carr’s Cottages with family suites starting under $150 and plentiful chain hotels. From Ripley’s museum to mountain coasters and even their own space needle , it's impossible to get bored in Gatlinburg.

Indianapolis, Indiana

view of indianapolis skyline and canal walk

The largest children’s museum in the world is located in Indianapolis. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis covers nearly 30 acres and draws over one million visitors each year. For families with kids, this attraction alone makes Indy a great destination for a vacation. There’s so much more to do there, though. Time your visit to coincide with the Indy 500 , or visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum to learn about the history of auto racing any time of year. For an experience with a slower pace, take a pedal boat tour on a portion of the Indiana Central Canal . Like most smaller cities, Indy is home to a plethora of hotels and Airbnbs — the average cost of a nightly stay is only $130.

Big Bear Lake, California

Located in San Bernardino National Forest , Big Bear Lake is an easy drive from Phoenix, SoCal and Las Vegas. Some visitors compare it to Lake Tahoe at a lower price point. The skiing includes more beginner trails and affordable lift tickets — and is generally less crowded than Tahoe. During the other months of the year, Big Bear has all the popular mountain town activities like kayaking, horseback riding, mountain coasters and ziplining. There’s also a vibrant mountain biking community in and around Big Bear Lake.

Leesburg, Virginia

For East Coast travelers looking for a quaint town to spend a quiet vacation in, Leesburg fits the bill. Located within Loudoun County just about an hour outside of Washington, D.C., it also makes a great home base from which to explore the city without staying in an expensive hotel. Downtown Leesburg looks like stepping into a postcard, with art galleries, restaurants and retail space tucked into historic buildings. Shoe’s Cup and Cork is a popular local spot located in a former shoe store that serves local sustainable food, wine and beer. In surrounding Loudoun County , there are tours of wineries, breweries and a woman-owned distillery, Catoctin Creek , inside a former Pontiac dealership. Flights to nearby Dulles Airport average just over $300 for domestic flights.

Flagstaff, Arizona

When tourists think of visiting the Grand Canyon , the most popular base camps are Phoenix and Las Vegas — which can be pricey. Flagstaff , which is just over an hour away, allows vacationers to explore the canyon on a smaller budget. Flying to Flagstaff can be expensive, but it makes a great road trip destination for folks who want to explore the southwest. There are many hotel and bed-and-breakfast options that average just over $100 per night. For a quirkier accommodation, the vintage Airstreams at Village Camp Flagstaff are adorably Instagrammable.

Columbus, Ohio

Half of the U.S. population lives within a one-day drive of Columbus — making it both accessible and affordable. Columbus is home to Jack Hannah’s zoo , which includes a water park called Zoombezi Bay . Visitors should give themselves two days to enjoy everything the zoo has to offer. The local science center, COSI , has been rated the best science center in America for three years in a row by USA Today . Many museums and zoos have reciprocal programs with the Columbus attractions, so check your local memberships for discounts. While in town, guests can spend a free evening walking, biking or enjoying the spray park along the river on the Scioto Mile .

Galveston, Texas

Galveston has developed a reputation for Texans as an affordable beach getaway — but with the average flight costing under $300, the Gulf Coast hotspot is a great option for any traveler on a budget. It’s easy to use hotel rewards in Galveston, but there are also RV parks like Camp Margaritaville and plenty of privately owned rentals averaging $160 per night. There is also no shortage of delicious beach-town eateries in Galveston that are uber-affordable. Playground Patio Bar & Grill has entertainment for all ages, and the Shark Shack makes a great quick lunch stop without having to brush off too much sand.

mother and toddler daughter exploring the famous wave of coyote buttes north in the paria canyon vermilion cliffs wilderness of the colorado plateau in southern utah and northern arizona usa

Arches National Park is one of the most stunning geographical formations in America. It’s also very, very rural. For adventure-seeking travelers who want to explore the 2,000 documented rock arches, the tiny town of Moab is a great spot to stay. Devil’s Garden Campground , located within the park itself, is traditional rustic camping with stunning desert views. Expedition Lodge , a vintage motel, is a better choice for visitors who want their own toilet and shower. Despite its rural roots, Moab has a great little food scene . The food truck park is a hit with visitors because everyone can get exactly with they want — no compromising necessary.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Since Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, visitors do not need a passport — which can be an expensive document to obtain. The average flight, according to Priceline, is also just around $300. San Juan is more than 500 years old and filled with historic buildings — with stunning beaches and rainforests surrounding it. Spotin Tours offers ecologically-conscious rainforest excursions for adults as well as kids. The Hotel El Convento is a registered historic hotel in Old San Juan with rooms starting under $150, and the Sheraton by Marriott in the same historic district is a great option for utilizing reward points.

Jekyll Island, Georgia

the jekyll wharf on jekyll island, ga, a good housekeeping pick for best cheap places to travel

The sleepy sister to the more popular Saint Simon, Jekyll Island is a budget-friendly way to enjoy Georgia’s Golden Isles . The oceanfront Holiday Inn resort includes free meals for kids 11 and under at any time of day as well as sweeping views of the Atlantic with a full-service poolside tiki bar restaurant. It’s a quick trip over to Saint Simon for more plentiful dining options, but part of the draw of Jekyll Island is its slower pace. Driftwood Beach has plentiful climbing opportunities for little kids, and the Summer Waves Water Park provides a great break from the waves. It’s not easy to fly to Jekyll, but it makes a great road trip.

Estes Park, Colorado

This mountain town situated just outside of Rocky Mountain National Park is made for individuals and families who love adventure. The average flight to Estes Park is under $250, and the town is less than 90 minutes from Denver. With classic eateries like Penelope’s World Famous Burgers and Fries and more foodie-friendly spots such as Himalayan Curry & Kebab , there are great meals for any budget. ATV and horseback tours allow visitors to see the mountainous terrain, and the fly-fishing is world-class.

Meg St-Esprit (she/her) is a freelance writer chasing down and covering the most interesting and quirky ideas about parenting, home design, education and travel. She lives with her husband, four kids and way too many pets in Pittsburgh. Her work has appeared in a variety of publications including The New York Times , Washington Post , Romper , Fodor's , and more. When she's not writing, she's definitely camping. Follow her on Twitter , on Instagram or at her website .

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Budget trips: 20 of the cheapest places to travel

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That ever-growing travel wish list might be putting pressure on your pocket – but there are plenty of destinations where you'll get more bang for your buck. From Greece to Guatemala , here are 20 of the cheapest places to travel.

1. Thailand — for fantastic local food and more

2. south africa for safari adventures at an incredible value, 3. vietnam for an affordable country with a lot to offer, 4. uruguay — for a budget destination with beaches, 5. cuba: a cheap destination with very few tourists.

6. Prague, Czech Republic — one of Europe's most affordable destinations

7. Greece for popular tourist destinations on a budget

8. guatemala: one of the cheapest countries to learn spanish, 9. bulgaria for an underrated tourist destination, 10. india: an all-time favourite for budget travellers, 11. portugal for a cheap country in western europe, 12. bolivia for natural beauty on a budget, 13. mexico: one of the cheapest places to travel, 14. new orleans — one of the cheapest major cities in the usa, 15. laos for national parks and more, 16. the gambia for a cheap destination with nature, 17. shanghai, china for delicious street food, 18. save money in istanbul, turkey, 19. london — for free things to do in a capital city, 20. egypt for one of the most memorable cheap travel destinations, plan your perfect trip.

This article is inspired by our Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget — your essential guide to making the most of this great region without breaking the bank. You might also want to discover how to explore the world's most expensive city without breaking the bank — find out how to visit Tel Aviv on a budget .

Travel ideas for Greece, created by local experts

The Historical and Mythological Cyclades islands

The Cyclades islands include two of the most famous Greek Islands: Mykonos and Santorini. Visit these and some of the smaller, quieter, islands. With white washed houses, narrow cobbled streets, blue domed roofs and stunning beaches, they are what Greece is all about.

A secluded villa stay on Mainland Greece

Stay in a secluded private villa with magnificent views to the sea and explore this beautiful corner of Mainland Greece with your own rental car. Under the impressive Mt Taygetos in Southern Peloponnese, the region of Mani will give you a snapshot of authentic Greece.

Along the Coast of Crete: from Heraklion to Platanias

As Greece's largest island, Crete's culture and atmosphere is distinctly different from mainland Greece. Thousands of years of unique culture and rich history complement the island's untamed natural beauty. Explore Crete at your own pace with this unique self-drive trip!

Cultural and natural sites of Athens and the Peloponnese

Welcome to wonderful Athens for an unforgettable adventure. Enjoy getting lost in this maze of charming streets, where the modern sits beautifully with the ancient. Venture out into the Peloponnese on mainland Greece, and discover historical, cultural and natural wonders the region is blessed with.

An Odyssey Adventure in Ancient Greece

Learn the secrets of Ancient Greek mythology and history visiting the world-renowned site of the Acropolis, explore the unspoiled landscape of Peloponnese, become a true Spartan warrior in Thermopylae and much more - this self drive tour takes you on a real Greek adventure.

Explore Classical Greece: self-drive motorhome trip

This 15-days motorhome road trip will take you to Athens, the city of legends and some of the most fascinating classical sites, such as Epidaurus, Olympia, Delphi and the man-made marvels of the Corinth Canal and Byzantine monasteries of Meteora. A perfect tour for history.

There’s a reason why Thailand remains so popular with backpackers. It’s got idyllic islands , a rich culture, beach huts aplenty, tantalising local food and adventures galore , and all are available at often staggeringly low prices.

Despite the well-trodden routes through the country, it’s not hard to get away from the crowds. Check out Nakhon Si Thammarat for some of the very best food the country has to offer or hire a motorbike to make the 600km trip along the Mae Hong Son Loop through the forested northern mountains. See why Thailand made our list of the best places to travel alone.

Find budget places to stay in Thailand

The Great Holy Relics Pagoda Nabhapolbhumisiri, Chiang Mai, Thailand © Shutterstock

The Great Holy Relics Pagoda Nabhapolbhumisiri, Chiang Mai, Thailand - still one of the cheapest places to travel © Shutterstock

One of the great things about travelling in South Africa next to the beautiful landscapes is that it’s possible to have a safari experience here – complete with the Big Five – without encountering a budget-breaking bill. Head to Hluhluwe-Imfolozi to see a white rhino and avoid the crowds of Kruger .

Head to the Drakensberg for superlative hiking. Don’t forget to factor in at least a few days in the amazing Cape Town or Johannesburg to experience the nightlife in South Africa .

Start planning your trip with the best time to visit South Africa and our collection of the best South Africa itineraries .

Find budget places to stay in South Africa

Cape Town, South Africa - aerial view © Mark Van Overmeire/Shutterstock

Cape Town — popular with budget travellers © Mark Van Overmeire/Shutterstock

Vietnam is one of the best and cheapest places to travel. The country’s greatest attraction is its sublime countryside, from the limestone karsts of the north to the waterways and paddy fields of the Mekong Delta , with blissful beaches and frenetic cities crammed in between - see our reader's vote for the most beautiful places in Vietnam .

Then there’s the cuisine – pull up a stool at a pho stall and for just a few dollars you’ll eat some of the best food on offer, shoulder to shoulder with the locals. Check out our 9 tips for backpacking Vietnam and the best time to visit Vietnam , plus discover how to get off the tourist trail before you go.

food-street-pho-vietnam-shutterstock_274359428

Street Pho - Vietnam street food options make it a great cheap place to travel © JNEZAM/Shutterstock

If you’ve already visited Brazil and Argentina , or are just looking for a better value destination in South America, head instead to neighbouring Uruguay. You’ll be relieved to hear you can still find excellent steak here and some amazing restaurants .

Plus, there are plenty of lovely beaches to choose from – head to Cabo Polonio for quieter sands and abundant wildlife – and the gorgeous old capital of Montevideo. Want to learn more? You'll find all the information you need to plan a budget trip in our Rough Guide to South America on a Budget .

Find budget places to stay in Uruguay

Uruguay. Punta del Este © Chaykovsky Igor/Shutterstock

Uruguay. Punta del Este - a great place to go on a tight travel budget © Chaykovsky Igor/Shutterstock

6. Prague, Czech Republic — one of Europe's most affordable destinations

Despite being firmly on the tourist – not to mention bachelor party – trail these days, Prague still remains one of Europe’s cheapest capital cities to visit. For just a few Czech Crowns you can enjoy a hearty meal of Czech food , washed down with decent local Czech beer (of course).

The city itself is a beauty, crammed full of history and perfect for leisurely explorations by foot - check here to see how to avoid the crowds in Prague , and a great train travel itinerary starting in Prague. Want to explore more of Europe on the cheap? Check out The Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget .

For Baroque touches with a view : Questenberk
For gardens and views: Golden Well Hotel
For budget stays : Adeba Hotel

Find places to stay on a budget in Prague .

Save money when travelling to Prague © Shutterstock

Greece has been having a tough time economically in the past few years. It finally started trading on financial markets in mid-2018 after years of bailouts, but for many, making ends meet day-to-day is still hard.

If anything, the financial situation is all the more reason to travel here and to support the local people. Prices are still cheaper than they once were, so you might be able to squeeze an extra Greek island or one of the beautiful beaches into your itinerary.

Pay by credit card for whatever you can in advance, but take enough cash with you for your travels, and you’re pretty much guaranteed an amazing trip. Read our indispensable travel tips for Greece by Nick Edwards, co-author of The Rough Guide to Greece , before you go - and of course, the best Greek food you need to try.

Find budget places to stay in Greece

Hydra Island, Greece © Anastasios71/Shutterstock

Greece — one of the best budget destinations © Anastasios71/Shutterstock

It’s hard not to fall under the spell of Guatemala and its compelling mix of natural beauty, Mayan traditions and colonial legacies. Rock-bottom prices make this one of the best places to study Spanish.

Once your linguistic skills are up to scratch, jump onto one of the country’s famous camionetas or “chicken buses” to explore. Soak up the sights of graceful Antigua in the south of the country, explore Guatemala City or be wowed by the monumental Maya temples of Tikal .

For planning your trip , check out the best time to visit Guatemala , our tips for travelling in Guatemala and read our breakdown on how many days are the best to spend in Guatemala .

Want to ensure a carefree vacation? Also, check out our important safety tips for Guatemala .

Find budget places to stay in Guatemala

el-arco-antigua-city-agua-volcano-guatemala-shutterstock_769890442

Guatemala for affordable accommodation and more © Shutterstock

Often unfairly overlooked, Bulgaria has a lot to offer budget travellers – not least some of the most deserted beaches in Europe, at bargain prices. In addition to its appealing coastline, there are also lots of lovely old towns.

One of the best and cheapest places to travel is Varna on the coast. Or the ancient Plovdiv — which made our Rough Guide list of the Best Places to Travel this year. Bulgaria also boasts a number of dramatic mountain ranges that are perfect for exploration on foot or by bike.

Find budget places to stay in Bulgaria

Panoramic view of Golden Sands beach (Zlatni Piasci) in Bulgaria © Aleksandar Todorovic/Shutterstock

The underrated country of Bulgaria © Aleksandar Todorovic/Shutterstock

India is such a vast country and remains one of the ultimate destinations among the cheapest places to travel. There are few countries where you can still travel so extensively and eat so well for so little.

If you’re after a beach break, eschew Goa for the gorgeous beaches of the temple town of Gokarna. For amazing food, it’s hard to beat the puris and kebabs of Mumbai’s street stalls or head to the Golden City of Jaisalmer from where you can explore the seemingly endless sands of the Thar Desert. Need more inspiration? Check out our favourite places off the tourist trail .

Varanasi, India © Shutterstock

Portugal remains one of the best bargains in Western Europe and is especially worth considering if you want to avoid the more crowded resorts and cities of Spain. Skip the Algarve for the ruggedly beautiful Alentejo coast (with its cheap, fresh seafood) and vibrant, uber-cool Lisbon. If you're not sure where to start, read our top tips for travelling in Portugal and discover the best of Lisbon's food scene .

Find budget places to stay in Portugal

alentejo-portugal-shutterstock_105769898

Portugal is arguably the cheapest country in Western Europe © Shutterstock

One of the cheapest places to travel in South America, Bolivia is also one of its most misunderstood . Travelling here may be a little uncomfortable at times, but it’s more than worth it for the wealth of amazing sights on offer.

Top of the list is undoubtedly the astounding Salar de Uyuni salt flats, a two or three-day tour of which will usually set you back less than £100/$150. Plan your trip with The Rough Guide to South America on a Budget , and be sure to try at least some of these best things to do in Bolivia .

Find budget places to stay in Bolivia .

Tip from Rough Guides: Learn about the best ways to get to Bolivia .

Salar de Uyuni - Bolivia is one of the cheapest places to travel in South America © Shutterstock

Your budget will definitely stretch to tacos and tequila aplenty in Mexico – which is great news as there’s a lot of ground to cover in this vibrant country.

Whether you want to string your hammock up along dazzling white sands, sample some of the country’s best street food in Oaxaca or cool off in a crystal-clear cenote (sunken swimming hole), the country will leave you eager to come back for more. To kick-start your wanderlust, these are 12 of our favourite places to visit in Mexico .

Find budget places to stay in Mexico

Beach Zipolite Oaxaca, Mexico © Shutterstock

Zipolite beach, Oaxaca, Mexico © Shutterstock

You can’t escape from music in New Orleans – and with buskers on what often seems like every corner, and music in every courtyard and bar, it’s not hard to experience the city’s musical heritage without spending much more than the price of a beer.

The city is best experienced slowly, and on foot; it’s hard to beat people-watching over a cup of coffee and a plate of sugar-dusted beignets at the Café du Monde. Find out where to sample the city's top cocktails with our best bar guide .

Where to stay in New Orleans

For a budget-conscious alternative: Hotel Provincial
For classic New Orleans charm: Wyndham New Orleans French Quarter

Find budget places to stay in New Orleans

Bourbon St, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA © Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Even in a region of the cheapest places to travel, Laos stands out. It’s hard not to be captivated by the slow pace of the country.

Head just north of elegant Luang Prabang to riverside Nong Khiaw, where for a small change you can bag a waterside bungalow and watch the boats travel up and down the karst-surrounded river over a cold bottle of Beer Lao. Get the full lowdown on this enchanting and unspoiled corner of Southeast Asia with The Rough Guide to Laos . And to better prepare for your upcoming trip to Laos read the Laos travel tips we've collected.

Find budget places to stay in Laos

song-river-at-vang-vieng-laos-shutterstock_655851064

Laos is famous for its national parks and more © akedesign/Shutterstock

Africa’s smallest country is already known for its beautiful beaches, but it’s well worth venturing beyond them to experience its other delights . Top of the list has to be the Chimp Rehabilitation Centre in the River Gambia National Park, where you can watch the primates in their natural habitat.

For birdlife, Baobolong Wetland Reserve is arguably the best place for ornithology on the continent and is at its most atmospheric at sunset. Read on for 8 off-the-beaten-track experiences in the Gambia.

Find budget places to stay in The Gambia

green-vervet-monkey-shutterstock_178117055

Gambia is Africa's smallest country © Dave Montreuil/Shutterstock

The biggest appeal for budget – if not all travellers – to Shanghai is undoubtedly the abundance of amazing street food on offer, from xiao long bao soup dumplings to scallion pancakes and sticky rice parcels ( zongzi ).

It’s still possible to find an accommodation bargain at the lower end of the scale, and much of the city’s appeal lies in exploring its busy streets on foot and experiencing for yourself the juxtaposition between old and new China. You'll find recommendations for where to find the city's best street eats and budget sleeps in The Rough Guide to Shanghai .

Find budget places to stay in Shanghai

lujiazui-shanghai-china-shutterstock_425475433

Shanghai for street food and more © Shutterstock

With one foot in Europe and the other in Asia, Istanbul is undeniably alluring. Though seeing all the major sights – the Aya Sofya, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace to name but a few – can quickly eat into your lira, the city can still be great for tighter budgets.

Arguably the best ways to really soak up the city are from a Bosphorus ferry, wandering the streets of the Grand Bazaar or on a streetside terrace with a freshly-cooked kebab - read up our Turkish food guide before you go.

Where to stay in Istanbul

For views: Hotel Poem
For B&B: Mest Hotel Istanbul Sirkeci
For location: Boutique Saint Sophia

Find budget places to stay in Istanbul

Blue mosque, Instanbul © OPIS Zagreb/Shutterstock

Istanbul, Turkey © Shutterstock

First things first – we know London is not cheap. There’s no denying that even staying in hostels, using public transport and eating in cafés is going to massively eat into your budget.

But – and it’s a big but – there are few places in the world that can rival the capital city for its plethora of free sights, where you can see the Rosetta Stone and the Lindow Man, works by Monet and Dalí, not to mention dinosaur and blue whale skeletons, for absolutely nothing. Get off on the right foot by choosing the right area to stay .

Find budget places to stay in London

Hampstead Heath during the summer months in London © Chris Seddon/Shutterstock

Considering the abundance of mind-blowing ancient sights, you’d expect travel to Egypt to cost a lot more than it does. Sure, if you tick off all the major attractions – including the Pyramids, the Valley of the Kings and Abu Simbel – then costs are going to creep up, but tempered with cheap (and excellent) food and decent budget accommodation, it’s not hard to feel like you’re almost able to live like a Pharaoh.

Note, that due to safety concerns some governments currently advise against travel to certain parts of the country; check the latest advice before you go.

Find budget places to stay in Egypt

Small Temple of Nefertari, Abu Simbel, Egypt © Shutterstock

Egypt is a fantastic travel destination © Shutterstock

Want to travel without the hassle of planning and booking? Our local experts can plan wonderful trips for you to anywhere you have been dreaming of travelling. Simply get in touch when you would like to travel. We will then create a personalized itinerary, which you can amend until you are totally happy with every detail of the booking. All of our planned itineraries can be tailored to meet your specific needs.

Inspired to take a trip to Europe? Don't miss our Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget for more tips on making the most of this great region without breaking the bank.

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10 Best Places to Travel on a Budget

An ancient Buddha statue with a sash at a historic site in sunny Thailand

The world is full of cheap vacation spots. No matter what continent — and no matter what interests you have — there are countless places you can visit on a budget.

Few destinations are “too expensive” as long as you do some research, get creative, and have some flexibility. You just might not be living large when you visit them.

Fortunately, there are lots of destinations out there that make budget travel easy, fun, and safe.

These destinations offer affordable accommodation, cheap food, and plenty of activities and excursions that can be enjoyed without breaking the bank.

Here’s my list of the best cheap travel destinations so you can get inspired and plan your next affordable adventure!

Table of Contents

1. Thailand

2. central america, 3. cambodia, 4. the balkans, 8. portugal, 10. morocco.

Longtail boats parked on a beautiful beach on an island in Thailand

It’s also super affordable.

With a tourist trail going back decades, Thailand is the heart of backpacking in Southeast Asia , and you can get by on between $25-35 USD per day thanks to cheap guesthouses, budget street food (which can be found for as little as $1 USD!), local buses, and the many cheap and free attractions. If you spend all your time on the islands and in expensive accommodation, expect to pay closer to $60 USD per day. However, even at the price, Thailand is still one of the most bargain-friendly destinations in the world and should not be skipped!

The Ultimate Thailand Travel Guide
9 Incredible Things to Do in Thailand
How Much Does It Costs to Visit Thailand?

Palm trees on the lush coast of Panama, taken by Nomadic Matt

Belize , Panama , Costa Rica — these are expensive destinations by regional standards (yet they are still quite affordable). If you visit these central Central American countries, you can get by on $45-60 USD per day as a backpacker or splash out and spend $100-120 a day to live large. Your money goes really far in this part of the world. And with so many countries to choose from, it’s easy to bounce around and see a lot without going broke.

READ MY TRAVEL GUIDES TO THE REGION:

El Salvador

Ancient Buddhist relics at a historic site in beautiful Cambodia

Cambodia is cheaper than popular Thailand but just as beautiful and filled with some of the nicest people in the world. Plus, it’s home to the incredible Angkor Wat (which, while expensive to visit, is worth the expense!).

Cambodia Budget Travel Guide
Backpacking Cambodia: 3 Suggested Itineraries for Your Trip
Angkor Wat Travel Guide

Clear, stunning water near the lush mountains of Albania

You can get by for as little as $45 USD per day — a fraction of what you’d pay in Western Europe. A week’s worth of groceries costs as little as $25 USD while a beer costs around $2-5 USD.

And while the region was once known for being unsafe, things have greatly improved over the past decade. There’s a growing backpacking trail here and tourism is on the rise. It’s Europe least-explored region — but not for long so visit before you crowds arrive and the price skyrocket.

Bosnia & Herzegovina

The famous Great Wall of China rolling over the landscape

But the country becomes even cheaper when you get off the beaten path and the interior . This is where you’ll find the best travel deals and bargains. China still remains one of the best value places in the world and, with it’s massive size (it’s the 3rd largest country by landmass), there is a ton to see and do here!

7 Lessons Learned from 3 Months in China
China Travel Guide: What to See, Do, Costs, & Ways to Save
What Hitchhiking as a Solo Female in China Taught Me

A view of old buildings along the famed Ganges River in India, with lots of people and boats

India is a cheap backpacking destination with a rich cultural history, mouthwatering food, helpful and curious locals, incredible regional diversity, great tea, and a lot to do. It’s a gigantic place best either explored in either one large trip or a few smaller chunks. Either way, don’t miss India.

13 Amazing Things to Do in India
India Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
Is It Safe for Women to Travel India?

The bustling capital of Georgia, Tbilisi, on a bright and sunny day

Tucked away in the Caucasus, Georgia has been at a cultural crossroads for centuries yet it’s not nearly as popular as it should be. Tbilisi is a city bursting with activity, while the rest of the country offers intrepid adventures a rugged, off-the-beaten-path feel.

You can get by on next to nothing here too, with budget travelers spending as little as $30 USD per day. Beer is around $3 USD, a week’s worth of groceries costs around $25-30 USD, and most museums and historic sites cost just $2-5 USD.

While it might feel out of the way, Georgia is one of the next big backpacking hubs. I’d go back in a heartbeat!

The 15 Best Things to See and Do in Georgia
The Ultimate Georgia Travel Guide
Finding Love and Home in Tbilisi, Georgia

A narrow street with bright colors and an old tram going up the hill in Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal has become a lot more popular and crowded in recent years (it has a growing expat and digital nomad scene) and Lisbon has become especially expensive was people move there and drive up prices. It’s a great place after all! However, once you get outside of Lisbon, prices are still relatively cheap compared to the rest of Western Europe — and you’ll see far fewer tourists too. Expect to get by on $50-60 USD per day if you’re a budget backpacker.

While is gorgeous in the summer, if you’re looking for a cheap place to spend the winter in Europe, Portugal is one of your best options.

Portugal Budget Travel Guide
That Time I Went to Portugal and fell Madly in Love with It
Porto Travel Guide

An iguana relaxing on the warm stones of Tulum, Mexico

While there are some regions that aren’t that safe to explore, the majority of the country is yours to enjoy. No matter your interests — beaches, partying, food, history, nature — there’s a corner of the country that you can enjoy safely without breaking the bank.

Mexico: A Love Story
The 20 Best Things to Do in Mexico City
The Ultimate Mexico Budget Travel Guide
How to Stay Safe in Mexico as a Solo Female Traveler

A view looking over the blue roofs of Chefchaouen in sunny Morocco

I fell in love with Morocco when I visited, and not just because it’s super affordable (though that did help!). Budget backpackers can get around on just $30-40 USD per day here, while midrange travelers can have a comfortable trip for around double that. You get a lot of value here. In fact, I love it so much I used to run tours there!

Morocco is a country that mesmerizes. Don’t miss it.

11 Reasons Why I Fell in Love with Morocco
Morocco Budget Travel Guide
Is Morocco Safe?

I believe most destinations in the world can be explored on a budget without sacrificing too much comfort ( heck, I even traveled Iceland on $50 USD per day ).

If you’re a savvy traveler, you know how to maximize your money no matter where you go in the world. But your mission to travel on a budget gets a lot easier when the places you’re going to are already affordable, allowing you make the most of your budget without missing out!

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.

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.

A narrow alleyway in a quiet market in Morocco, lined by small shops selling colorful wares

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Best cheap summer vacations.

Thanks to balmy temperatures, long days and school recess, summer is a popular time to take a vacation. Unfortunately, it can also be one of the most expensive times to travel, making it difficult to find a budget-friendly destination. To help you in your search, U.S. News considered affordability and traveler appeal, among other factors, to determine the best cheap summer vacations. From must-see cities to scenic national parks, there are a bevy of travel destinations that won't break the bank. Vote for your favorite destination below to help determine next year's ranking.

Glacier National Park

Cannon beach, grand canyon national park, colorado springs, niagara falls, vancouver, canada, yellowstone national park, amelia island, outer banks, williamsburg.

Head to this national park in northwest Montana for stunning photo-ops within a budget. Summer is a great time to visit since conditions are ideal for driving Going-to-the-Sun Road, one of the most scenic drives in the country. With the park's $35 per vehicle entry fee (which covers access for seven days), visitors can also hike Grinnell Glacier, swim in Lake McDonald and learn about the area's flora and fauna at the Apgar Nature Center. Camping in the park is cheap, too – rates range from $10 to $23 per night.

Budget-conscious travelers will be thrilled to know that you don't need to shell out an arm and a leg to visit one of the world's most beautiful beaches . This nearly 4-mile-long stretch of the Oregon coast is beloved amongst visitors for its diverse tide pools, ample birdwatching opportunities and breathtaking rock formations. What's more, many of Cannon Beach's best things to do are free or inexpensive, including the iconic Haystack Rock and Ecola State Park, which charges a daily $5 parking fee. Plus, because Cannon Beach is a walkable town, you'll also save coin on transportation costs.

It doesn't get more affordable than camping, and this UNESCO World Heritage Site in Arizona is a unique place to rough it. You'll have to contend with crowds along the South Rim, but the photo possibilities will be well worth the cramped quarters. Some campsites start at just $18 per night during the warmer months, while the park entrance fee for vehicles is $35 and lasts seven days. Pack your own food to save even more. If you're not interested in camping, plan on staying at one of the affordable hotels in Grand Canyon Village near the South Rim.

Colorado Springs, Colorado, offers ample opportunities to enjoy breathtaking scenery and inexpensive attractions. The city offers an abundance of free things to do, including biking through Garden of the Gods, hiking to Pikes Peak's summit and strolling up and down the streets of Old Colorado City. Nearby Manitou Springs is also a great stop for anyone looking to relax in healing waters. While summer is peak tourist season, lodging options remain relatively cheap, with plenty of budget hotels and motels to choose from.

Summer in San Diego ushers in warm temperatures in the 70s, which makes it a popular destination with sun-seeking travelers. When you're not sprawling out on sandy shorelines like La Jolla Cove and Mission Beach, save money on top attractions (think: the San Diego Zoo and USS Midway Museum) by purchasing a Go San Diego Card. For more free entertainment, stroll and window shop through neighborhoods like Seaport Village and La Jolla. Keep in mind that hotel prices skyrocket during Comic-Con, an annual event that takes place in July, so book your accommodations outside of these dates to save on lodging costs.

If you avoid the area's casinos, you'll find that the New York and Ontario sides of Niagara Falls are exceptionally affordable summer vacation destinations. To save money, consider purchasing one of the region's bundled passes, which may include admission to activities like a self-guided Journey Behind the Falls tour or entry to attractions like the Butterfly Conservatory. Summer may be the peak season, but booking in advance helps cut costs. Plus, nothing beats basking in Niagara Falls' mist on 80-degree days.

As temperatures begin to rise in Vancouver, so do room rates. However, travelers can offset these inflated summer prices by taking advantage of the city's many free attractions. Spend your day biking through Stanley Park, swimming at Kitsilano Beach or admiring the flora and fauna at Queen Elizabeth Park. And because no Vancouver vacation would be complete without visiting Granville Island, travelers should set aside time for exploring the popular area's art galleries, restaurants and shops. Plus, Vancouver's diverse culinary offerings mean you can find cheap eats ranging from sushi to fish and chips.

Moab, Utah, is unique in that it borders two of the state's national parks. Arches National Park (to the north) is where visitors can marvel at precarious looking sandstone monuments like the famous Delicate Arch. Meanwhile, Canyonlands National Park (which sits southwest of town) offers stunning views of Utah's expansive desert landscapes. In and around Moab, travelers will find an array of affordable accommodations, ranging from campgrounds to motels to vacation rentals. All of this makes Moab a budget-friendly destination for nature lovers.

Nestled at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, offers plenty of outdoor attractions for visitors. Inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the area's most popular sight, travelers will find more than 800 miles of terrain to explore. Plus, with the park only charging a nominal daily parking fee of $5 per vehicle, visitors can hike to overlooks and waterfalls while sticking to a tight budget. When vacationers need a break from checking out the park, they can visit family-friendly attractions like the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community in Gatlinburg or play a round of mini-golf at a local course.

Roaming bison, majestic mountains and breathtaking geysers populate Yellowstone's more than 2.2 million acres of Wyoming, Montana and Idaho wilderness. Travelers searching for an affordable vacation that doesn't skimp on memorable moments will likely appreciate several cost-effective aspects of this national park. Entrance fees cost $35 per vehicle or $20 per person on foot for seven days, while campsites start at $20 per night. Once you've settled in, explore the park's incredible hiking trails, which wind from colorful thermal basins to large lakes.

Bar Harbor, Maine, is basically a postcard that has found its way into the real world. The town is flanked by Acadia National Park on one side and Frenchman Bay on the other, so it has an abundance of options for both outdoor enthusiasts and water sports fans. Summer is the best time to visit because the weather is warm and dry. Plus, this season is when the town offers a variety of free activities, including outdoor movies at Agamont Park and Art in the Park, an annual art show that takes place in June.

Located about 30 miles northeast of Jacksonville, Amelia Island offers 13 miles of pristine Atlantic Ocean coastline. Families flock here in the summer to take advantage of the city's uncrowded beaches and kid-friendly attractions, including Fort Clinch State Park and Amelia Island Museum of History. Vacationers can often score good deals on mid-range hotels and vacation rentals, and activities like exploring Egans Creek Greenway and browsing the Fernandina Beach Market Place farmers market on Saturdays are available free of charge.

Although summer is this North Carolina beach destination's peak travel season, there are several ways to enjoy an Outer Banks getaway on a budget. While you'll want to book your accommodations far ahead of time, there are plenty of low-cost hotels and vacation rentals to choose from. And because the expansive beaches are these barrier island's main claim to fame, you'll likely find yourself spending most of your time with your toes in the sand. If you do find yourself tiring of the beach, explore free attractions like Jockey's Ridge State Park and Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

Aruba's offseason is a fantastic time to plan a getaway – room rates have dropped and crowds have thinned, making it easy to score deals on hotels and airfare. And although temperatures often reach into the low 90s in summer, travelers can cool off by going for a dip at one of the area's many beaches (traveler favorites include Eagle Beach and Palm Beach). You can save additional coin by booking your stay at one of Aruba's luxurious all-inclusive resorts , or by purchasing a vacation package. And because Aruba sits outside the hurricane belt, it's an ideal choice for a Caribbean summer trip.

If you're seeking a serious dose of history, Williamsburg, Virginia, may be the right vacation spot for you. Step back in time at Colonial Williamsburg, visit the site of the first settlement at Jamestown and wander around Yorktown Battlefield. Should you want to check out pricier attractions like Water Country USA and Busch Gardens Williamsburg, opt for a summer combo ticket that covers unlimited access to these locations and Colonial Williamsburg for seven days. East Coast-based travelers can easily reach all of these hot spots thanks to Williamsburg's central mid-Atlantic location.

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

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

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

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

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

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10 affordable places to visit in the united states.

1. san antonio, texas.

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

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

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

Cheap Things to do in San Antonio:

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

Cheap places to visit in the USA - Riverwalk, San Antonio

San Antonio Travel Budget:

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

Related Post : 10 Most Affordable Cities to Live in Texas

2. Memphis, Tennessee

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

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

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

3. El Paso, Texas

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

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

Cheap Things to do in El Paso:

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

4. Daytona, Florida

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

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

Cheap Things to do in Daytona:

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

Cheap Places to visit in the united states | Daytona Beach, Florida

Daytona Travel Budget:

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

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

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

Cheap Things to do in Ocala:

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

6. Clearwater, Florida

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

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

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

Cheap Things to do in Clearwater:

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

7. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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

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

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

Cheap Things to do in Philadelphia:

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

Independence Hall, Philadelphia - Affordable places to visit in the US

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

Philadelphia Travel Budget:

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

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

8. Albuquerque, New Mexico

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

Cheap Things to do in Albuquerque :

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

Open Space of Albuquerque, Cheap vacation spots in the USA

Albuquerque Travel Budget:

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

9. Charleston, South Carolina

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

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

Cheap Things to do in Charleston :

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

Piers in Charleston | Best Places to visit in US on a budget

Charleston Travel Budget:

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

10. Raleigh, North Carolina

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

Cheap Things to do in Raleigh:

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

Raleigh Cityscape - Cheap Holiday destination in USA

Raleigh Travel Budget:

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

11. Phoenix, Arizona

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

Cheap Things to do in Phoenix:

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

READ NEXT: 10 Best Hikes in Southern California

The Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix | Pocket friendly places to visit in the USA

Phoenix Travel Budget:

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

12. New Orleans, Louisiana

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

Cheap Things to do in New Orleans :

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

New Orleans Travel Budget:

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

13. Salt Lake City, Utah

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

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

Cheap Things to do in Salt Lake City:

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

Utah State Capitol Building | Cheap USA destinations

Salt Lake City Travel Budget:

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

14. Tucson, Arizona

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

Cheap Things to do in Tucson:

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

Tucson Travel Budget:

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

15. Big Bear Lake, California

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

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

Cheap Things to do in Big Bear Lake:

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

16. Death Valley, California

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

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

Cheap Things to do in Death Valley

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

17. Red Feather Lakes, Colorado

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

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

Cheap Things to do in Red Feather Lakes:

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

18. Fort Collins, Colorado

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

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

Cheap Things to do in Fort Collins

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

19. Klamath Falls, Oregon

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

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

Cheap Things to do in Red Klamath Falls:

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

20. Mount Hood National Forest, Oregon

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

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

Cheap Things to do in Mount Hood National Forest

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

How to Travel Cheap in the USA?

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

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

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

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

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

Let’s look forward to fixed expenditure –

Accommodation :

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

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

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

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

Public transport

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

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

Now let’s know your variable expenditure –

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

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

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

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

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

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

FAQ – Cheapest Vacations in the US

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

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

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

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

3. Which state is very cheap to travel to?

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

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

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

10 Cheapest Places to Visit in California
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27 Comments

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

Thank you Mariah for your kind comment.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sure… Why not..!! Happy Traveling… 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Looks like a fun place to visit and stay.

This is truly amazing!

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

25 Best Cheap US Summer Destinations To Visit (2024)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole

The United States offer budget travelers a lot of choices when it comes to amazing destinations for inexpensive summer vacations. Whether you prefer large American cities or small towns, exploring the outdoors, or relaxing on beautiful beaches, there are many affordable places to visit in the USA for your summer trip. Several of these budget-friendly destinations in America take you off the beaten path while others take you straight into some of the most popular vacation spots with tips for how to pay less for fantastic experiences. Here are 28 of the best places to visit in the USA for cheap summer holidays.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means that I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you buy something through my site. This helps me run my website and produce the articles that I hope you find helpful.

Other Destinations

You may be curious about other summer destinations after reviewing this article. Here are a few articles to inspire!

If you are solely looking for a summer beach destination in USA, many of which are also inexpensive, please review 21 Beautiful US Islands To Visit In Summer.

For those looking for fantastic destinations in US with cooler summer temperatures, please see 28 Best US Destinations To Escape The Sizzling Summer Heat

For quick trip, check out 25 Amazing Summer Weekend Getaways in the USA . Most of them are only 30 minutes from a significant airport.

If you are looking for recommended spots for a particular summer month, please see:

21 Best Places To Visit In The USA In June ;
22 Best Places To Visit In July In The USA ; and
20 Best Places To Visit In August In The USA .

If you can swing airfare to Europe, here are 28 Best Cheap Places In Europe For A Summer Vacation .

For simple travel tips to save you money, please take a look at 10 Best Money Saving Travel Tips .

If you would like to Travel Cheaper, Smarter and Easier, then join the thousands of subscribers who receive my weekly newsletter filled with the most up to date and best travel tips around. Sign up with this link !

Best Affordable Places In USA For Summer Holidays

Here are 25 of the best places to visit in the United States for cheap summer vacations.

For each destination , some of the best inexpensive or free things to do are highlighted, including summer festivals or annual events. In addition, affordable restaurants or budget friendly areas offering delicious food are included.

How best to reach the destination by public transportation is set out and accommodation for budget minded travelers are often suggested. Finally, expected average temperatures are outlined so that you can be properly prepared for your amazing US summer getaway.

best cities in USA for a cheap summer vacation

Chicago, Illnois

By Catrina from 24 Hours Layover

Chicago is one of the largest and most beautiful cities in the US. It is home to stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, great food and culture.

It is also one of the best cheap summer destinations in the USA as there are so many free things to do.

One of the best free things is take a stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk. This 1.25 mile walk along the south bank of the Chicago River takes you past fantastic restaurants, bars and beautiful art installations while you gaze at some of the splendour of Chicago’s architecture.

Also free is a visit to the impressive stainless steel sculpture Cloud Gate – known affectionately as The Bean in Millennium Park just off the Lake Michigan. The Bean is mirrored so you can see the reflection of the skyline in your photo, which makes this one of the best places to take pictures in Chicago .

Millennium Park is filled with beautiful art and gardens, playgrounds and an enormous water park so make sure you set aside an afternoon to fully appreciate all it has to offer.

Another great free activity in Chicago is to go to North Avenue Beach where in the summer months, you can swim or enjoy other water sports in Lake Michigan. With just a short walk from Chicago’s skyscrapers, you find yourself with miles of beaches and an 18 mile Lakefront trail for walking, running and biking.

Even aimlessly strolling around Chicago, you will see so many unique things for free – such as the famous wall murals, the iconic Chicago Theatre and The Honeycomb Pavilion at Lincoln Park – which is why Chicago is such a great city to explore on a budget.

Chicago also has several free annual summer music festivals, such as the Chicago Gospel Music Festival each May, the Chicago Blues Festival each June (the largest free blues festival in the world), and the Chicago Jazz Festival in August. All the festivals are held in and around Millennium Park and are really incredible to witness if you are able to time your trip right.

The summer months in Chicago can be hot and a little muggy, with average high temperatures ranging from 74°F to 82°F. Expect a few inches of rain to fall in each of the summer months.

Best Way To Reach Destination

The quickest and easiest way to reach Chicago is to fly into Chicago O’Hare International Airport. A 45 minute train ride from the airport will get you to downtown Chicago for just a few dollars.

If you are driving to Chicago, it will take just over 12 hours to reach Chicago from New York. If you prefer to reach Chicago by public transport, you can get an inexpensive Greyhound bus from many American cities.

For some great cheap food in Chicago head to Seoul Taco (a Korean-Mexican sweet food cafe), or grab one of the personal deep dish pizzas at Lou Malnati for which Chicago is famous.

Inexpensive Accommodation

Catrina says, “For a centrally located affordable hotel check out Travelodge by Wyndham Downtown Chicago. Or if you prefer a hostel, HI Chicago Hostel is a very reasonably priced hostel located in a convenient location.”

For other amazing things to do in Chicago, check out 22 Best Things To Do In Downtown Chicago With Teens . Several of these options are inexpensive while others are bucket list worthy and should not be missed when you visit whether you visit with teens or not.

best places in the USA for inexpensive summer holidays

Big Sur, California

By Pafoua from Her Wanderful World

Big Sur in California is an iconic destination along the stunning coastline of central California. With rugged cliffs, redwood forests, and sweeping ocean views, Big Sur offers a variety of natural attractions to explore in the summer. It is also one of the best inexpensive destinations in the United States in summer.

The area is home to some of the most beautiful coastal hikes in all of California. Pay $10 to enter Point Lobos State Natural Reserve for hiking trails and breathtaking views over the Pacific Ocean.

Alternatively, explore the sandstone formations of Pfeiffer Beach with a $12 entrance fee. The beach is complete with sea arches and waterfalls–you’ll even find purple sand here!

Don’t miss snapping a picture of the famous Bixby Bridge–just pull off the road into the parking lot. Then continue driving to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park ($10 entrance fee) and hike to view McWay Falls, one of two tideways in California.

With its remote location, a road trip to Big Sur is a great place to get away from it all and relax in nature.

The weather is mild in the summer, making Big Sur an ideal place to visit to enjoy outdoor adventures. Temperatures range from highs of 70°F to lows of 50°F in the evening. Dress in layers as the coast does get windy, which can bring a chill.

You’ll find Old Monterey Marketplace and Farmer’s Market on Alvarado Street in Monterey open on Tuesdays. You can buy local organic produce and sample some of the delicious international dishes prepared by the vendors. You’ll also find various handmade jewelry and crafts.

To get to Big Sur, fly into San Francisco International Airport and drive 2 hours south on Highway 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway.

You can also get to Monterey by public transportation by taking the Amtrak Throughway for 2 hours and transferring to a local Monterey bus for another hour.

Pafoua says, “Spend a night camping or glamping under the stars at Pfeiffer Big Sur Campgrounds. Or, explore the local towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea and Monterey with an affordable stay like Arbor Inn .”

best affordable beach destination in United States for summer getaway

Chincoteague, Virginia

By Pamela from The Directionally Challenged Traveler

Most people visit the breathtaking beaches of the East Coast via Virginia Beach or Ocean City, Maryland. However, there is a lesser-known destination nearby that can save you money while also offering fewer crowds.

Chincoteague, Virginia is a quaint beach town located a little north of Virginia Beach and is a hidden gem . The small island is home to wild horses, fresh seafood, and a NASA facility.

Wild horses are one of the main reasons why people visit Chincoteague. These majestic animals have been living on the island for centuries and can be seen roaming around in their natural habitat. It’s a truly unique experience you won’t find anywhere else in the world (and it’s absolutely free!).

In July, there is an annual pony swim which raises funds to help take care of the ponies year-round. It’s an awesome festival and you get to rub elbows with local celebrities.

There are plenty of other things to do in Chincoteague as well. One unusual activity is near Wallops Island where you will find a NASA facility that launches rockets. Many people think that Florida is the only place to see rocket launches, but you can actually see them in Virginia too.

Another free activity is enjoying the beautiful sandy beaches. You could do nothing else but lounge and explore the beaches during your visit in summer and you would have a wonderful time.

Whether you’re looking for a unique wildlife experience or breathtaking beaches, Chincoteague has something for everyone.

Enjoy tropical summer weather with average highs in summertime around 82 °F. Expect around 10 days each month with some rain and lots of humidity in July and August.

The seafood is some of the freshest you’ll find on the East Coast and there are plenty of restaurants where you can enjoy it at an affordable price.

Most people visit Chincoteague by car. The closest international airports are Reagan Washington in Washington D.C. and Baltimore International. Then, it’s about a two-hour drive.

Pamela says, “The Atlantic Shores Inn and Suites is a budget-friendly hotel in the heart of Chincoteague. It’s also within walking distance of Island Creamery which is famous for its homemade ice cream.”

best national park in America for budget-friendly summer trip

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

By Alyssa from An Apple A Plane

Perhaps one of United States most iconic destinations, Yellowstone National Park lands high on the bucket list for travelers around the world. Located in Wyoming and conveniently attached to Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park is an extremely beautiful destination. It is also one of the most affordable places in the USA for a summer vacation.

Holders of the annual United States National Parks pass can enter and exit the Park as many times per day as they would like without a fee. This $80 card is highly recommended as it provides access to every US National Park for 365 days. One card per vehicle is required. This option ends up saving more money over time. Alternatively, pay $35 per vehicle for seven days.

Once inside the National park, the possibilities are endless. Visitors have access to the most famous viewpoints and trails. Something incredible about Yellowstone is that the most iconic destinations do not require an intensive hike, therefore it is accessible for visitors with a variety of physical abilities.

Visit the world famous Grand Prismatic spring. Photos don’t even do it justice- it’s one of these things you just need to see in person. Walk the Fairy Falls uphill trail for the infamous viewpoint. Then, head down to the Midway Geyser Basin boardwalk, so you can explore it up close.

Old Faithful geyser is another beloved park treasure that does not require much walking and is very accessible. There are several benches to sit and relax until Old Faithful erupts.

Summer sees an evening low temperature of 32 Degrees Fahrenheit and an average high of 75 Degrees Fahrenheit. However, Yellowstone has had days with summer temperatures reach 80 Degrees Fahrenheit. Expect a few days with some rain each summer month.

For inexpensive food, plan to stop at a grocery store on the way, like Gardiner Market or Albertsons, and grab items such as peanut butter and jelly, bread, and fruit. This can save lots of money as opposed to eating out daily.

Fly into Bozeman Yellowstone International airport and rent a car. It takes 1.5 hours drive to reach the west entrance of the National Park. There is no public transportation option for this route.

Alyssa says, “Consider camping at Yellowstone or one of the campgrounds outside of the National Park to further save money and explore this bucket list destination on the cheap.”

best cities to visit in united states in summer for budget travelers

Washington DC

By Lisa from Planningaway.com

One of the best cheap cities to visit in America for a summer holiday is Washington DC. There are plenty budget-friendly activities that will keep you busy for your entire trip.

The best time to visit Washington DC is during the 4th of July festivities. On July 3rd, you can attend a rehearsal of the National Concert that is broadcast on PBS every year. It is free to attend. Then, on the 4th of July, grab your blanket and head to the National Mall for the best firework display in America.

One of the best things to do in Washington DC is to visit the many National Smithsonian museums. There are 20 different museums and they are all free.

This includes the most popular museums such as the Air and Space Museum, The Natural History Museum, The American History Museum, and the National Zoo. You could spend days exploring all of these amazing museums.

Another amazing budget-friendly activity in Washington DC is viewing the National Monuments. The famous Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Jefferson Memorial are all located on the National Mall as well as many others. Touring the Washington DC Monuments at night is even better!

If you plan ahead and you are an America citizen, you can contact your senator to get a free guided tour of the White House and the US Capitol Building. Alternatively, you can also book a free tour of the Ford Theater, the Library of Congress, and the National Archives.

Average highs in summertime are around 84 °F and evening lows around 68 °F. There will be around 10 days with some rain. Expect humidity in July and August.

After touring, head to Georgetown for some great shopping and dinner. The famous DC Cupcakes and the Levain Bakery are located in this area.

Getting to DC is not a problem. There are three airports from which to choose from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (“DCA”), Dulles International Airport (“IAD”), and Baltimore/Washington International (“BWI”). You can compare prices and see which is the most affordable.

Lisa says, “It is very nice to stay within walking distance of the National Mall, but accommodation may be a little more expensive. If you want to save money, you can book a hotel along the metro line. The metro is awesome for getting into the city.”

best places to visit in the usa for cheap summer vacations

Clearwater, Florida

By Candice from Exploring the Gulf

Are you looking for a fun and affordable summer beach destination? Look no further than Clearwater, Florida.

Located on the beautiful Gulf Coast of Florida, Clearwater offers visitors an array of activities to enjoy without breaking the bank. From relaxing days spent soaking up the sun at one of its many beaches to exploring downtown’s unique shops and restaurants, there is something for everyone in this vibrant coastal city. It is one of the best US summer getaways for budget travelers.

Take a stroll on Clearwater Beach. The stunning white sand, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets make this destination a true paradise.

During the summer, you can stop by Pier 60 for a really fun summer festival. The event is held every night two hours before sunset. There are lots of fun vendors and street performers. Grab some dinner at HomeStyle BBQ before heading out to the Pier.

Another fun and inexpensive thing to do is take the ferry out to Caladesi Island. You will escape the crowds in Clearwater, and the boat ride is a lot of fun.

If you are looking for a tropical summer destination, Clearwater is ideal. During the summer months, you can expect warm and humid temperatures. Average highs are around 88 °F with average monthly rainfall around 6″. Overnight lows are in the upper 70s.

You can expect the water temperature in Clearwater Beach to be around 85 °F in the summer.

The closest international airport to Clearwater, Florida is the Tampa International Airport. Located in Hillsborough County and situated just 15 miles from downtown Clearwater, this airport is the perfect gateway to begin your travels.

With over 20 airlines providing service to over 80 destinations, Tampa International Airport offers visitors lots of options when looking to explore this Gulf Coast.

The cheapest way to get from the airport to Clearwater is by bus. The bus route takes about 2.5 hours and only costs a few dollars.

Candice says, “Gram’s Place and Sunset House and Gardens are two great hostels to stay at in Clearwater.”

best affordable destinations in united states for a summer holiday

Durango, Colorado

By Caitlin from Twin Family Travels

Durango, Colorado is a great place to base yourself for a budget-friendly Southwest Colorado road trip in summer. Southwest Colorado is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural history, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore the majestic outdoors or discover ancient Native American ruins.

Durango is only an hour from Mesa Verde National Park , which preserves some of the most impressive archaeological sites in North America. Plan to spend an entire day here. Take a tour of a cliff dwelling or two, hike some of the trails, and learn about the history of this special place.

Visitors to Durango can also take in breathtaking views along the San Juan Scenic Byway, a winding mountain road that offers scenic views of some of Colorado’s most beautiful landscapes. Explore the towns of Silverton, Ouray, and Telluride while driving this iconic mountain road.

While in Telluride, take the free gondola to Mountain Village. The Telluride Jazz Festival is held annually in August. In addition to the amazing jazz music, this festival offers other activities including culinary experiences, yoga, hiking, biking, a walking tour, and shopping.

The average temperatures in Durango during the summer months are highs in the 70s and evening lows in the 40s. Rain is not typically an issue with an average of only one inch per month during the summer.

The Durango Farmers Market is a great place to pick up fresh produce and local products.

The nearest international airport to Durango is Albuquerque International Sunport. It is about a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Albuquerque to Durango. You will definitely need a car to explore this area.

Caitlin says, “For inexpensive accommodation, check out the Adventure Inn .”

best us cities for inexpensive summer trips

San Francisco, California

By Gabriel from Chef Travel Guide

Even though San Francisco is one of the most expensive cities in the world to live in, it won’t cost you an arm and a leg for an epic trip to the city by the bay. It is one of the best cities for a summer trip in America for budget friendly travelers.

The best part about a visit to San Francisco is eating all the city’s cheap and incredibly delicious food and visiting the countless attractions that are either very cheap or free.

A visit to Golden Gate Park is the perfect way to walk off all the delicious food in San Francisco. The entrance is free, and there is enough to see for a full day of entertainment.

Other must-do experiences include a walk across the Golden Gate Bridge and checking out the view of the Bay Area from the top of Twin Peaks, two prominent hilltops in central San Francisco.

One of the biggest events in San Francisco in the summer is Outside Lands which features over 70 bands on multiple stages over three days.

San Francisco is packed to the brim with enough attractions and unique sites to keep you entertained for weeks, and the majority are all free to visit.

Average high in summertime is 70 °F and evening lows in the high 50s. There is little to no rain or humidity.

San Francisco is one of the top culinary destinations in the world. A popular first stop for cheap eats is Chinatown, with its many takeout dim sum shops and bakeries. Stop at Good Mong Kok Bakery on Stockton Street for over-stuffed Har Gow and Shui Mai dumplings.

If you are feeling some seafood, head to Fishermans Wharf for some clam chowder served in a San Francisco sourdough bread bowl. This is the quintessential San Francisco meal, and it will fill you up for around $10.

Other amazing options include the world-famous Mission-style burritos at La Taqueria or a slice from Tony’s Coal-Fired Pizza.

San Francisco has two airports (SFO and OAK) from which choose, with both options offering direct access to the BART train that will deliver you right to the heart of the city.

Alternatively, the drive from San Francisco airport only takes 20 minutes to reach Union Square.

Gabriel says, “If you’re looking for a place to stay in San Francisco that won’t break the bank, HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel is an excellent option as it is conveniently located in the heart of Union Square.”

best budget-friendly beach destinations in America for summer vacations

Plymouth, Massachusetts

By Amanda from Hey! East Coast USA

If you’re looking for a cheaper US place to visit in the summer with beaches, history, and easy access from a major hub city, then you have to head to Plymouth, Massachusetts.

While most folks flock to iconic Cape Cod for the summer, you can avoid trying to cross the bridge in busy Cape traffic and instead enjoy an idyllic summer escape in pretty Plymouth.

Of course, one of the best free things to do in Plymouth is to visit one of the many beaches! Just watch out for parking fees at peak times.

Craving a little more greenery? Enjoy the 3 miles of walking paths in Tidmarsh Wildlife Sanctuary. They only request a small donation for the Mass Audubon Society’s maintenance of this important conservation land.

Plymouth considers itself to be America’s Hometown, so you won’t find a better spot for July 4th fireworks and special events. July 3rd brings bonfires on the beach in Manomet, so you can head there first and then enjoy the typical parade and fireworks over Plymouth Harbor on the 4th.

In the summer, expect average high temperatures to be 82°F and lows around 61°F. On average, there will be around 3″ of rain in each of June, July, August and September. There is some humidity.

If you head to Long Beach for a day out in the sun and sea, then you have to grab a bite at Sandy’s. Seafood and drinks are always better at the beach!

To get to Plymouth, fly into Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) and drive about 45 minutes south.

Alternatively, you can take the Silver Line from Logan to South Station (23 minutes), and then hop onto the commuter rail train to Kingston (1 hour). Kingston is just about a 10-minute drive from Plymouth, so it might be worth getting a taxi from there. Otherwise, get the Liberty Link bus into Plymouth Center (20 minutes).

Amanda says, “It’s the perfect time of year to go camping, so check out Myles Standish State Forest and reserve one of their nearly 400 campsites for serenity and affordability.”

Great Smokey Mountains National Park, Tennessee & North Carolina

By Victoria from Southern Trippers

The Great Smoky Mountains are one of the best cheap places to visit in summer in the USA. They sit right in between North Carolina and Tennessee and are home to an incredible mountain landscape where you can also learn all about Appalachian culture.

If you’re looking for fun and free things to do in the Smoky Mountains , go on a magical bike ride through Cades Cove. It’s a stunning, tranquil valley in Tennessee where you can admire the unique flashing pattern of resident fireflies over two weeks in June.

Then, stop by Clingman’s Dome and take in the stunning panoramas of the area from the highest point in all of Tennessee. Try and visit before or close to sunrise so that you can take in the views without the crowds.

Finally, embark on a lovely, 2.5-mile round-trip hike to Laurel Falls since the scenic views are gorgeous. Plus, the hike is easy enough for everyone in the family to enjoy. Just try and visit early in the morning or during the week since this hike is popular and usually brimming over with people on weekends or later in the day.

You can also attend the very first 4th of July parade in the nation. This fun event starts at midnight on July 4th and showcases upwards of one hundred floats.

If you’re in the area in August, the Songwriter’s Festival is a great four-day event where you enjoy multiple free concerts.

Pack a raincoat since summer means between 10 and 12 days of rain per month. You’ll also want to bring plenty of layers since daily highs can get up to 86F while daily lows can dip down to 59F. Expect humidity in June, July and August.

Grab some delicious Cinnamon Raisin Pecan French Toast from the Old Mill Restaurant in Pigeon Forge. It’s a great low-cost, Southern comfort food restaurant that serves giant portions of food that you’ll love.

McGhee Tyson Airport is about a 45-minute drive to Pigeon Forge and a rental car will be necessary since public transportation is scarce.

Victoria says, “Check into your room at the Tennessee Mountain Lodge, Riverside by OYO . It’s a well-maintained property with simple rooms and fabulous owners.”

best cities in United States to visit in summer for budget travelers

St. Louis, Missouri

By Gary & Michell from Love And Our Laptop Lives

St. Louis, Missouri is one of the best affordable destinations in United States in summer.

No visit to St. Louis is complete without visiting Gateway Arch National Park. The Park surrounding the Gateway Arch is a beautiful place to stroll and enjoy the grounds which overlook the Mississippi River. In addition to the amazing views of the Arch itself, a museum and the Historic Old Courthouse are located in the park and can be toured at no cost.

If you choose to take in the amazing view of the city from the top of the Gateway Arch, you will need to buy a tram ticket. The tickets cost less than $20 and the trip to the top is an adventure in itself.

Free summer activities for families in St. Louis do not stop at our National Park. Vacationers and locals can visit the St. Louis Zoo, an award-winning zoo with more than 14,000 different animals, or the St Louis Science Center with over 750 hands-on exhibits, both at no cost.

You can also spend the day at Grants Farm, a historical farm landmark that was previously owned by our 18 th president Ulysses Grant. In addition to hundreds of animals, Grant Farm features historic buildings, the log cabin home of Ulysses Grant, and the Busch family’s home. Guided tours and fee beer samples are available for all adults.

Average highs in the summer months are high 80s degree Fahrenheit, with around 3″ of rain each month and some humidity in July and August.

St Louis is home to a wide variety of delicious dining options and a reminder that good food does not have to break the bank. Families can find a wide selection of burgers, over-the-top sandwiches, and toasty subs, pizza, tacos or pasta. Carl’s Drive-In, located on Route 66 is a local favorite that hits the spot for all ages.

All major airlines fly into St. Louis Lambert International Airport, the largest airport in Missouri. Once in St. Louis, a variety of budget-friendly transportation is available for travelers to get around the city.

Gary & Michelle say, “A huge variety of hotel accommodation is available in St. Louis. A favorite hotel is Union Station , located in a historic train depot. Although not the cheapest hotel in the city, it is still very good value. It also offers many extras including a free nightly fire and water show and the Grand Hall Light Show.”

best US summer getaways for budget-friendly travelers

Bend, Oregon

By John from Your Destination Is Everywhere

Bend, Oregon, is known for its beautiful and diverse landscapes. In the summer months, this charming city is a superb location for summer holidays in the United States because it offers an abundance of cheap activities, from hiking trails to summer festivals.

One of the best things to do is to go out and chase waterfalls. There are lots of beautiful waterfalls near Bend that are bucket list worthy, from the 100-foot-high Tumalo Falls to the brilliantly blue Wizard Falls. They make for an excellent day trip and are totally free to visit.

The festival season is in full swing during Bend’s summer months. The Bend Summer Festival is a massive celebration with over 75,000 visitors. It features some of the best local cuisine, artists, and craftspeople, along with lots of jazz music and wine.

Finally, you cannot visit Bend without spending a night stargazing. With most of the rain deposits on the west side of the Cascade Range, the night skies here are clear and dark for most of the year.

The Oregon Badlands Wilderness, 20 miles east of Bend, is a great spot to do so. If you don’t mind driving a bit farther out, then the Prineville Reservoir State Park is even better as it’s been designated as an International Dark Sky Park. And for only a few dollars, you can visit the Pine Mountain Observatory and use their telescope domes.

The summer weather in Bend, Oregon is typically warm and dry, with many clear days. The temperature can be as high as 82F on hot summer days, and as low as 45F during the night.

Since summer is the dry season, Bend receives minimal rainfall. However, a light rain jacket might come in handy as the weather here can change unexpectedly.

There are lots of dining options in Bend but favorites are Pizza Mondo and El Sancho, which serve Italian and Mexican cuisine, respectively

The closest international airport to Bend is in Portland, Oregon, which is a 3.5-hour drive away. If you are traveling from within the country, you can also fly to Redmond Municipal Airport just outside of town.

John says, “In terms of accommodation, the Cascade Lodge is an excellent budget-friendly option. Located less than a mile from the city center, this lodge has all the basic amenities plus an outdoor pool!”

best outdoor destinations in united states for cheap getaways

Juneau, Alaska

By Karen from Forever Karen

Juneau is Alaska’s capital and offers many inexpensive or free activities, including some lovely hikes and a chance to visit Mendenhall Glacier . It is a fantastic affordable destination in the US for summer vacations.

Part of the Juneau Ice fields, the Glacier has been rapidly receding, but it is still a remarkable site. From downtown Juneau, the city bus provides the cheapest option to get there. You’ll need to hike one mile to the visitor center from the bus stop.

In summer, you can often see house-sized icebergs, watch bears in Steep Creek, and see Nugget Falls. The Park offers various hikes for different hiking abilities.

To enjoy amazing views of Juneau, consider the hike to Mount Roberts. Expect to take up to two hours to ascent the switchback trail. The trail can be muddy in summer, so wear appropriate hiking boots.

At the top, you can see Gastineau Channel from the Father Brown Cross. Snow will still cover the higher peaks, depending on how far you hike. The trail down is a little more challenging. Should you opt to take the gondola down, you have to purchase a ticket or spend $15 at the gift shop.

Expect temperatures in the high 60s in summer. Since Juneau sits in a rainforest, rain falls more often as the summer progresses. June experiences 13 days of rain on average, which increases to 17 days by August. In September, expect 13″ of rain.

For cheap food in downtown, the Alaskan Crepe Escape offers sweet and savory crepes and Grumpy’s Deli has soups, hot sandwiches, and rice bowls.

Surrounded by mountains, you can only reach Juneau by plane or boat. The Juneau International Airport is located 8 miles from downtown, so you can visit without a rental car. From the airport, you can take a taxi or Lyft downtown.

Karen says, “Juneau Hostel offers an inexpensive stay.”

best affordable American beach destination in summer

Destin, Florida

By Wayne from Always On The Shore

Destin, Florida is one of the best places to visit in the Florida Panhandle. If you’re looking for fun and free things to do, it’s also a perfect summer beach destination!

If you are keen to be on the water, you could rent a boat or take a guided tour to look for dolphins or out to Crab Island. However, less expensive activities are found on land.

HarborWalk Village is free to visit and is a nice area to explore. It offers waterfront views along Destin Harbor, shopping, dining, kids’ activities, and entertainment.

For more waterfront dining and shopping, The Boardwalk of Okaloosa Island is just west of Destin in Fort Walton Beach. It’s really a great place to spend a whole day or several hours, because it’s on the beach and you can walk the pier or try fishing off the pier for a small fee. They even have all your bait and fishing needs located on the pier. There’s a playground and splash pad for the kids, so there’s enough to keep everyone happy while visiting.

A fun thing to do at the pier in the summer is to check out the fireworks show. They have this every Wednesday night throughout the summer.

Other cheap things to do in Destin include visiting the beaches. Henderson Beach State Park offers a beautiful beach with picnic areas, a hiking trail, and a playground for only a small fee.

There are also plenty of indoor activities to do such as Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone and shopping at Destin Commons.

Miramar Beach is just outside of Destin and the beach is free to visit. For a restaurant with good prices, Pompano Joe’s on Miramar Beach has excellent food.

Destin is a fantastic location if you are looking for tropical weather. Summer temperatures get up to 85-90 degrees with an average 5″of rain in each of June, July, August and September. The summer months also sees lots of humidity.

Once you’re done at the beach or pier in Destin, you can cool off with some gelato at the ice cream shop. Alternatively, you can grab some food at Rockin’ Tacos or Floyd’s Shrimp House.

The best ways to reach Destin are from either the Panama City Beach or Pensacola airports. If you don’t rent a car, the best way to get to Destin is by taxi. Both airports are just an hour from Destin.

Wayne says, “Henderson Beach State Park offers camping for those looking to stay. Another nice place is The Palms of Destin near Henderson Beach State Park.”

best US cities for an inexpensive summer vacation

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

By Debbie from WorldAdventurists.com

Philadelphia is amongst the most famous cities in America, being a symbol of American Liberty and Freedom, and it continues to hold an important place in history today. From its lively neighborhoods full of colorful personalities, vibrant culture, and mouth-watering cuisines to landmarks like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, there are many free or affordable things to do in Philidelphia for summer getaways for budget travelers.

For Rocky Balboa fans and movie enthusiasts, put your energy to good use and ascend the Rocky Steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art for a memorable photo. Don’t forget to to recreate his famous pose – both hands triumphantly raised in the air!

Next, head over to see the Liberty Bell. It stands in its own majestic center at Independence National Historic Park. Admission to see the Liberty Bell is free. However, arrive early to beat the crowds.

As the birthplace of two crucial documents that shaped the nation’s history, Independence Hall stands as a testament to where ground-breaking discussions and signature signings took place for both the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution. Tickets are complimentary, but they are time stamped during the busiest months from March to December.

Between the months of May and September, admission to Blue Cross River Rink Summerfest is completely free for everyone. A summer entertainment center, you can choose from roller skating, mini-golfing, a variety of gaming options, amusement rides, and delicious concession stand items – all for an affordable pay-as-you-go option. It is Philadelphia Waterfront’s favorite summertime tradition.

When summer arrives in Philadelphia from June through September, so does hot and humid weather. July and August have temperatures hitting 86°F (30°C).

You will not want to miss trying a famous Philly cheesesteak! These mouth-watering sandwiches with bites of steak, sauteed green peppers and onions, and provolone cheese are a local delicacy, budget-friendly, and they hit all the right spots.

Reading Terminal Market, located beneath the iconic National Historic Landmark building (formerly a railroad terminal), provides an amazing tourist experience as well as fresh local produce, seafood, meats, and cheese to Philadelphia locals. Operating since 1892, this market has been bringing people together in Center City.

The premier gateway to Philadelphia is the Philadelphia International Airport (PHL). Just 6.9 miles / 11.1 kilometers from downtown, it’s the closest and most convenient choice for travelers to explore this vibrant city. Philadelphia is also conveniently situated a short 90-minute train ride from iconic New York City .

Debbie says, “An inexpensive but nice central hotel is Wyndham Philadelphia Historic District . It is within walking distance of must-see attractions like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.”

best cheap places to visit in the USA for a summer holiday

Lake Tahoe, California

By Patricia from Ze Wandering Frogs

For those looking for outdoor adventures and inexpensive summer trips in America, Lake Tahoe is one of the top summer attractions in California. Located high in the Sierra Nevada mountains, the North Shore is home to the towns of Truckee and Tahoe City, and South Shore Lake Tahoe features the city of the same name.

In the summer months, free activities include hiking on one of many trails around the Lake. Some of the popular hikes include Mt Tallack for incredible views of Lake Tahoe or even multi-day treks through the wilderness where you can enjoy the landscape of the Sierra High Route mountainous region.

Several watersports are among some of the affordable summer things to do in Lake Tahoe. Kayaking and stand-up paddling around the turquoise water of the beautiful Emerald Bay are the perfect way to admire one of the most scenic parts of Lake Tahoe.

There are several festivals around Lake Tahoe in summer , from the Beerfest & Bluegrass Festival at Northstar in July to the Classical Tahoe Festival at Incline Village in August.

The best time to visit Lake Tahoe is summer when the temperatures average 65-70° F. Days tend to be mostly sunny, but summer thunderstorms can happen occasionally.

San Francisco Airport is the busiest airport in Northern California with lots of flights, but the closest airport to Lake Tahoe would be Reno in Nevada. The drive from San Francisco is about five hours, though only 45 minutes from Reno. In addition, several free shuttles run from Reno to Lake Tahoe and take about one hour.

Patricia says, “Cities and towns like South Lake Tahoe, Tahoe City, or Kings Beach have campgrounds and budget motels.”

best destinations in United States for an affordable summer trip

Stanley, Idaho

By Jessica from The Uprooted Traveler

Stanley, Idaho, sitting at the base of the craggy Sawtooth Mountains in Idaho, is an epic outdoor playground for adventure lovers.

There’s endless budget-friendly things to do here to enjoy the incredible scenery. For example, hike to any one of the 300 alpine lakes that are sprinkled across the Sawtooth Valley. One of the best trails in the area is the Alice Lake Trail, where you’ll hike past multiple alpine lakes, through dense pine tree forests and be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of the surrounding landscape.

Alternatively, in the warm summer months, there’s nothing better than getting out on the water. On Redfish Lake, you can rent a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddle board as the Sawtooth Mountains tower above. Afterward, grab a beer at the Redfish Lake Lodge on a patio overlooking the lake.

After all that hiking and paddling, one of the best things about this area are the incredible hot springs in Stanley, Idaho , almost all of which you can enjoy for free. For example, soak in Pine Flats Hot Springs in your own private pool, as you overlook rafters take on the rapids along the Payette River rushing below.

Every summer, usually in late June, the city throws a multi-day live music festival. Tickets are typically on the cheaper side for music festivals. Alternatively, the good vibes typically spill beyond the festival, with lots of smaller bands performing at bars and restaurants (for free!) around Stanley.

Due to its high elevation, Stanley stays relatively cool, with highs in the upper 70s and lows in the 30s throughout the summer.

If you want to take full advantage of Stanley’s outdoor paradise, schedule your visit for July or August, when the high elevation hikes are snow-free and the alpine lakes are just the right temperature in which to swim.

Staying and keeping busy in Stanley is incredibly cheap, thanks to the plentiful camping and endless affordable outdoor activities, but eating out isn’t particularly affordable.

Make food back at your campsite to keep costs down. However, if you’re still looking for a moderately priced but incredible meal, check out the Stanley Baking Company and Sawtooth Hotel for creative dishes, prepared with fresh and local ingredients.

Getting to Stanley in and of itself is a bit of an adventure. Fly into the Boise Airport and make the two hour and 45 minute drive northeast.

There isn’t an easy way to get to Stanley via public transit, but if you want to avoid renting a car, you could evaluate whether it makes sense to take the Sun Valley Express to Sun Valley. Then take an hour-plus ride share to Stanley or alternatively, try to find a ride through the Idaho RideShare program.

Jessica says, “While getting to Stanley isn’t particularly easy, there’s plentiful dispersed camping and organized campgrounds to fit any budget. Otherwise, given Stanley’s teeny size (less than 100 residents!), the accommodations in town are quite limited.

However, if you can look past the outdated decor at the Mountain Village Resort, you’ll find a conveniently located home base. Perhaps, more importantly, you will also find one of the most Instagrammable (and private) hot springs in town, located in a rustic barn overlooking the Sawtooths!”

best outdoor destination in usa for budget travelers

Red River Gorge, Kentucky

By Jessica from Unearth The Voyage

One of the best inexpensive places to visit in the United States in the summertime is Red River Gorge in Kentucky. Red River Gorge is a designated National Geological Area that formed over 340 million years ago and is an outdoor lovers paradise. It’s made up of an intricate canyon system of cliffs, natural bridges, and rock shelters just waiting for you to explore.

Some of the best free things to do in the Red River Gorge area is to go hiking. There are a ton of different amazing trails to do in the area, but some of the best are the hikes to Creation Falls (1.5 miles roundtrip) and Double Arch Trail (4.5 miles roundtrip.)

Another cheap thing to do is take the Skylift up to Natural Bridge. The Skylift costs $17 roundtrip, but to make it even cheaper you can take it one way for $11 and then, hike down.

Every Saturday night in the summertime, you can attend a square dance Hoedown at Natural Bridge State Park. The dancing starts at 7:30pm, but arrive a little early for a practice dance. Joining in on the dancing costs only a few dollars.

The weather in the summer at Red River Gorge can be quite hot, so make sure you bring lots of water! The average temperatures are around 86° in the daytime. There isn’t a ton of rain this time of year, but you may get caught in the occasional summer shower.

One of the best and inexpensive places to eat at Red River Gorge is Miquel’s Pizza. The pizza is delicious and they have a variety of craft beers on tap all for great prices.

The closest airport is Lexington, Kentucky, about one hour’s drive away.

Jessica says, “Some of the best cheap places to stay at Red River Gorge are camping right next to the gorge. Natural Bridge State Park campground is a really nice campground and costs around $30 a night for a site.”

best inexpensive road trip in America for a summer getaway

Oregon Coast, Oregon

By Candice from CS Ginger

The Oregon Coast is one of the best cheap places to visit in the United States for a summer road trip. The weather is amazing, and there are so many great inexpensive places to stay. It is also a fantastic family destination and an area that you will love to return year after year.

Some of the best places to visit during an Oregon Coast road trip are the Samual H Boardman Scenic Corridor, Yaquina Head Lighthouse, and Oregon Sand Dunes National Recreation Area.

The Samual H Boardman Scenic Corridor has lots of great scenic viewpoints and hikes. Yaquina Head Lighthouse is an amazing place to go tide pooling and look for whales.

In Oregon Sand Dunes, you can crab, rent an off-highway vehicle (if in your budget), or hike. There are lots of great hiking trails in the area to explore the sand dunes.

Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock are more tourist destinations and a little more expensive than the other areas on the Oregon Coast, but they are great places to visit. While you are in the area, be sure to go tide pooling at Haystack Rock and hiking at Ecola State Park.

The average high temperature in the summer is going to be in the high 60s Fahrenheit with little to no rain and humidity.

There are two international airports in Oregon. One is in Portland and called the Portland International Airport. The other is the Rogue Valley International Medford Airport, located in Medford, Oregon. Portland is in the North, and Medford is in the South. You will need to rent a car to fully enjoy this coastal road trip.

Candice says, “The Oregon Coast is full of state campgrounds. Many are very close to the ocean and very beautiful. These are the cheapest places to stay and if you don’t want to camp, you can stay in one of their yurts.

Cannon Beach is more of a tourist destination, making accommodation a bit more expensive. You can check out nearby Seaside or Astoria for more affordable lodging accommodations.”

best US cities to visit for a cheap summer trip

Cleveland, Ohio

By Therese from Fueled By Wanderlust

The city of Cleveland, Ohio is a hidden gem that sits along Lake Erie and is particularly enjoyable during summer. During the warm months, there are plenty of free and inexpensive ways to experience this underrated rust-belt city.

Simply admiring historic architecture around Cleveland can help you visualize the city’s early 20 th Century Golden era, when industry was booming. A stroll through the Old Arcade, once called “Cleveland’s Crystal Palace”, will transfer you to the time of Victorian grandeur.

Additionally, take advantage of Cleveland’s waterfront during gorgeous summer weather. Head to the East Ninth Street Pier to enjoy the view and take a selfie in front of the Cleveland Script Sign which underscores the skyline.

Another free thing to do is view North America’s largest outdoor chandelier in Cleveland’s Playhouse Square. This is America’s second largest performing arts center (outside Broadway).

Visitors can also check out various festivals while in town, like the Feast of the Assumption, which is the perfect chance to explore Cleveland’s Little Italy neighborhood.

Additionally, The Great Lakes Burning River Fest celebrates how far the city has come since the once heavily polluted Cuyahoga River shamefully caught fire.

During a summer visit to Cleveland, expect temperatures ranging in the high 70’s to mid-80’s F. Although this is Cleveland’s rainiest season, averaging about 2.8 inches each month, there will be mostly beautiful sunny days. Expect humidity in July and August.

Affordable dining options in Cleveland include Barrio for tacos and Masthead Brewing Co. for craft beer and delicious pizza. Visitors should also visit the West Side Market in Cleveland’s Ohio City neighborhood, which dates back to 1912, and order from Steve’s Gyros. This food stall’s delicious gyros have even been featured on the Food Network.

To reach Cleveland, fly into Cleveland Hopkins International Airport and make the fifteen-to-twenty-minute drive downtown. The red line train also runs from the airport to Tower City every fifteen minutes, with the ride taking about thirty-five minutes.

Theresa says, “For those who don’t like to shave costs off of lodging, book a room at the Hyatt Regency to stay in the elegance of the Old Arcade. Alternatively, the DoubleTree is an affordable, well-located option near the lake.”

best US national parks in summer for budget travelers

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

By Anna from Stuck On The Go

Shenandoah National Park stretches along the ridges of the Blue Ridge Mountains in northwest Virginia. It is one of the best places to visit in the USA for an inexpensive summer trip

Stunning mountain views, scenery, and wildlife are typically what bring people here. There is an entrance fee to the park but a single vehicle pass is $30 and good for seven days.

If you only have a day or two then take a scenic road trip along Skyline Drive and stop at the various overlooks. Skyline Drive takes you through the park from Waynesboro in the south to Front Royal in the north.

If you have more time then some of the best hikes in Shenandoah are Stony Man, Doyles River Falls, or Upper Hawksbill.

Old Rag is the most iconic hike in the park but it is very strenuous and takes a full day. Note that you also have to get a permit for Old Rag.

While there are no festivals that happen in the Park, you can attend ranger-led programs during the summer. The National Parks also have five fee-free days per year which you can find here .

Summer is the warmest time to visit with temperatures at 74/75 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s also the rainiest season with between 8 – 10 days of rain per month.

When traveling through the National Park, the cheapest food you’ll find is at Elkwallow Wayside, Big Meadows Wayside, and Loft Mountain Wayside.

However, if you can swing it, the Blackberry Ice Cream Pie at Pollock Dining Room at Skyland or Spottswood Dining Room at Big Meadows is absolutely delicious.

If you’re on a strict budget then stop at a grocery store in either Front Royal or Waynesboro and find a picnic spot along the route.

The closest international airport is Washington Dulles and the drive is about 56 miles from there which takes about an hour.

There isn’t a great public transportation option. For example, to get to the entrance station, you would have to take the metro, DC MotorCoach, Corridor Connector, and then the Front Royal Trolley. Then, you need a car to explore Shenandoah National Park fully so renting one is the best option if you fly.

Anna says, “There are four different campgrounds (other than a group site) in Shenandoah and the best inexpensive one to stay at is Mathews Arm. They don’t have electric hookups but it’s perfect for tent camping.”

best budget friendly destinations in America for a summer getaway

Door County, Wisconsin

By Paulina from Paulina On The Road

Door County, also known as “Cape Cod of the Midwest”, is popular for its charming coastal towns, cherry and apple orchards, fish boils, and attractive sites. With breathtaking views of the waterfront, it’s a perfect spot for a summer vacation.

The city offers many fun and inexpensive things to do as well. One of the best is to spend the day out on the beaches. Egg Harbor’s and Sister Bay’s Beach are amazing ones to consider. Alternataively, bring your tackle and rod and check out George K Pinney County Park or Baileys Harbor for fishing.

Door county offers many fantastic annual events and festivals in the summer.

Enjoy free music concerts all summer long at several venues all over Door County, such as Sister Bay Waterfront Park Pavilion, Martin Park in Sturgeon Bay, and the Peg Egan Performing Arts Center.

The Beer Festival in June allows you to taste 150 beer samples. Plus, you can savor luscious dishes and enjoy live music.

The classic Door County fair is a must-visit in early August for classic carnival rides, games, and entertainment. Moreover, for barbecue enthusiasts, Death’s Door BBQ Competition is held at the end of August. It offers live music, kids’ activities, and of course, lots of appetizing BBQ dishes.

The summer months in Door County offer average highs in the mid 70s F. Expect around 2.7″ of rain per month and a few days of humidity in July.

Door County has an array of restaurants that offer great ambiance and food at reasonable prices. Some of them are Door County Creamery, Grasse’s Grill, Bluefront Cafe, and White Gull Inn.

The closest airport is Cherryland Airport, about an hour’s drive. Alternatively, Austin Straubel International Airport in Green Bay is the nearest international airport. From there, you can rent a car to Door County, about 2.5 hours drive.

Paulina says, “If you’re looking for an inexpensive stay, Julie’s Park Cafe & Motel, Bay Shore Inn, and Open Hearth Lodge are some of the best options to consider.

In addition, there are a number of resorts in Door County . Westwood Shores Waterfront Resort, Newport Resort, and Country House Resort are the best of them with outstanding views.”

best places to visit in the USA in summer for a budget traveler

Santa Cruz, California

By Kristin from Global Travel Escapades

One place that should be on your list for a summer beach getaway is Santa Cruz, California. For starters, compared to Santa Cruz’s wet winters , the weather is amazing during the summer months.

Despite the city having a reputation for being on the more expensive side, there are plenty of affordable or free things to do. For example, you can visit the iconic Santa Cruz Boardwalk to ride the amusement park rides, browse the shops, or grab a bite at one of the popular seafood restaurants.

Alternatively, if you want to just soak up the sun and relax, head to one of the many scenic beaches that Santa Cruz is home to. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a few seals or sea lions playing on the shoreline.

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, consider visiting one of the nearby state parks for a day of hiking or biking amongst the redwood trees. You’ll be able to appreciate the calming atmosphere as you immerse yourself in Santa Cruz’s natural beauty.

Visitors can expect average high temperatures in summertime of about 68°F and sunny skies, perfect for exploring the city and its many attractions.

If you’re looking to try some delicious food that’s both good and affordable, head to the neighborhood surrounding Santa Cruz Riverwalk Park. You can also check out the local farmers markets. Sometimes, there are food trucks and live music playing for a nice afternoon.

Those interested in visiting the coastal town can fly into San Jose International Airport. It’s a quick 45-minute drive by car or a 1 hour and 45 minutes bus ride.

Kristin says, “Check out The Inn at Pasatiempo or consider camping at the gorgeous nearby State Parks to help keep costs down.”

best budget-friendly outdoor adventure spots to visit in the united states in summer

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

By Stephanie from The Unknown Enthusiast

Bryce Canyon National Park and the surrounding area in southern Utah is a fantastic cheap outdoor adventure place to visit in summer. The red rock scenery is absolutely stunning, the rock formations are otherworldly, and the hikes are epic.

In Bryce Canyon, you should hike the Navajo Loop to Queen’s Garden Trail, and visit the 4 main viewpoints in the Bryce Amphitheater. Bryce Canyon is known for its hoodoos (tall, skinny, knobby red-orange rock spires), and the hikes take you down through the hoodoos, whereas the viewpoints let you look over them.

Bryce is also extremely well-situated for other day trips. Visit Zion National Park to do epic hikes like Angel’s Landing (you’ll need to score a permit, and definitely start hiking early for milder temperatures and fewer crowds), go to Canyon Overlook, or hike the Narrows.

Alternatively, do the Kanarra Falls hike. You’ll need to make a reservation ahead of time, but this hike takes you through a stream in a slot canyon to reach a small waterfall (and feels very refreshing in summer).

For something a little different than enjoying the outdoors, the Utah Shakespeare Festival is put on in Cedar City (1.5 hours away) every summer, and features Tony-award winning productions of Shakespeare’s plays.

Summers in southern Utah are very hot, but thankfully with little rain and no humidity. In Bryce, average highs are in the 70’s and 80’s, but in Zion National Park and other spots in southern Utah, highs are regularly in the 90’s and 100’s.

Plan on waking up early and doing most of your hiking first thing in the morning, taking a break during the middle of the day, and then going back out in the evening.

The closest airports are Las Vegas or Salt Lake City (both of them are 4 hours away from Bryce). There’s no public transportation option from either city all the way to Bryce Canyon – the closest bus station is in Parowan, so you will want to make this a road trip or plan to rent a car.

Stephanie says, “The town of Bryce Canyon has some restaurants and places to stay, but it’s a very quiet and sleepy town, so there aren’t a ton of options. There are a lot of good camping areas around Bryce Canyon, including several campgrounds in the Park. Otherwise, the Bryce Canyon Inn is a well-rated and inexpensive lodging option just outside.”

There are many wonderful places in the United States to go for cheap summer holidays. Whether you wish to venture north, south, east or west, or visit cities, small towns, national or state parks, or beaches, there is something for everyone and every budget.

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10 Of The Cheapest Places To Visit In Florida On A Budget

Cheap places to stay in Florida offer budget-friendly accommodations, free outdoor activities, and low-cost local eateries for a wallet-friendly vacation.
Clearwater and St. Petersburg on the west coast provide white sand beaches, vibrant arts and culture, and affordable hotel options from $82 per night.
Other affordable destinations include Cocoa Beach with its sandy beaches and Kennedy Space Center, Gainesville with its youthful energy and nature preserves, and Sarasota with its beautiful beaches and world-class attractions.

With its beautiful beaches, theme parks, and year-round warm weather, Florida is a hugely popular travel destination that can get quite expensive. Thankfully, the Sunshine State also boasts many cheap places to stay for budget-savvy travelers looking to relax and soak up the Florida vibes without breaking the bank.

From cheap places to stay in Key West in the summer to laid-back beach towns like Clearwater to college cities overflowing with culture, the cheapest places in Florida to visit on a budget offer wallet-friendly accommodations, free outdoor activities, and low-cost local eateries where visitors can dine well for less.

So, ditch the big tourist traps and high price tags. With a little research and planning, travelers can easily experience authentic Florida charm while enjoying budget-friendly activities, entertainment, sights, and dining. For the next affordable Florida vacation, visitors can consider adding these economic destinations to their Sunshine State itinerary.

Related: These Are The 10 Cheapest Places In The U.S. To Travel In Winter

Clearwater And St. Pete

For those wondering where to go for the cheapest Florida vacations outside of peak season, Clearwater and St. Petersburg are great answers; they offer visitors miles of white sand beaches along the sparkling Gulf of Mexico as well as vibrant arts and culture.

Relax and swim at Clearwater Beach, known for its calm waters , and enjoy free nightly sunset celebrations. Meanwhile, Downtown St. Pete boasts a lively waterfront with the Museum of Fine Arts, the world-renowned Dalí Museum, and outdoor concerts at Williams Park. Nearby Fort De Soto Park provides beautiful beaches, hiking trails, kayak rentals, and old military fort ruins to discover. At night, outdoor bars and seafood restaurants line the harbor.

Location : West coast, Tampa Bay region
Top Attractions : Clearwater Beach , downtown St. Petersburg
Cheap Things To Do : Beachcombing, kayaking, swimming, fishing pier, Saturday Morning Market, Museum of Fine Arts, Dalí Museum, outdoor concerts
Hotel Cost : From $82 per night

Cocoa Beach

Despite being one of the cheapest destinations in Florida for a vacation, Cocoa Beach offers lots of things to do spread over 2 miles of sandy beaches with mellow surf, perfect for swimming and surfing. Visitors can sunbathe, walk the scenic pier, or explore the beach by kayak. By night, beach bars and seafood restaurants line the oceanfront.

Two miles inland lies the Kennedy Space Center (a great day trip from Orlando) , where space shuttles once launched. View artifacts like rockets and space capsules before walking underneath a giant Saturn V rocket. Visitors can also catch a rocket launch viewing on select days.

Location : Central Atlantic Coast
Top Attractions : Cocoa Beach Pier , Kennedy Space Center
Cheap Things To Do : Beachgoing, surfing, fishing pier, walking/bike trails, kayaking, watching rocket launches, exploring space center
Hotel Cost : From $74 per night

Stay within walking distance of the beach to enjoy this active ocean-side town affordably and to the fullest.

Gainesville

As the home of the University of Florida, Gainesville exudes youthful energy with a thriving arts, music, and restaurant scene. The walkable historic downtown offers numerous thrift stores, coffee shops, and cheap eats near antique buildings. Travelers can browse the interactive exhibits at the Florida Museum of Natural History or see thousands of butterflies in the tropical conservatory at the Butterfly Rainforest.

Just outside town, Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park has hiking trails down a 120-foot sinkhole with a waterfall. Catch standup comedy shows and live music at venues like The Wooly and High Dive. Gainesville also provides nature preserves with hiking and springs for swimming like Paynes Prairie. Visitors can bed down affordably at several hostels and motel options near campus.

Location : North Central Florida
Top Attractions : Downtown historic district, Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park
Cheap Things To Do : Hiking, swimming, museum/galleries, butterfly rainforest conservatory, shows at live music venues
Hotel Cost : From $57 per night

The Middle Keys city of Marathon offers a more relaxed, affordable alternative to the busy Key West scene.

Visitors can enjoy Sombrero Beach’s dazzling tropical waters or walk the old 7-Mile Bridge, which parallels the new Overseas Highway. The Crane Point Museum and Nature Center encompasses 63 acres of nature trails and exhibits spotlighting the Keys’ wildlife, history, and ecosystems.

Travelers can see maritime artifacts at the Museum of the Sea or walk the beautifully maintained Washington Oleander Gardens for free. Visitors can kayak through mangrove tunnels, go fishing from the old bridge pilings, or book a snorkeling trip to nearby reefs teeming with tropical fish. Marathon lodging ranges from oceanside motels to cozy cottages.

Location : Middle Keys
Top Attractions : Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters , Crane Point Museum and Nature Center .
Cheap Things To Do : Beachgoing, snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, walking/biking 7 Mile Bridge, exploring marine life, walking Washington Oleander Gardens
Hotel Cost : Resorts from $110 per night

RELATED: 10 Best Hotels In Marathon, Florida, You Should Book This Fall

Ocala provides easy access to nature and historic sites while keeping things light on the wallet. Silver Springs State Park lets visitors walk along the nature trails, enjoy glass-bottom boat rides, and swim in the crystal clear springs.

Nearby Ocala National Forest (which is great for a road trip) offers over 600 lakes, hundreds of paddling trails, hiking, camping, and ancient Native American mound sites. Downtown Ocala’s historic district provides quaint shops, restaurants, antiques, and the iconic Tuscawilla Park fountain.

Travelers can also tour the nearby Horse Country– Florida’s thoroughbred breeding region, and visit quirky roadside attractions like the World’s Largest Outdoor McDonald's. Accommodation choices range from budget hotels to campgrounds.

Top Attractions : Silver Springs State Park , Ocala National Forest
Cheap Things To Do : Hiking, canoeing, glass bottom boat tours, swimming, camping, bike trails, visit historic sites
Hotel Cost : Hotels from $70 per night

With sugar-fine white sand beaches and a thriving arts scene, Sarasota is one of the most beautiful yet cheapest vacation spots in Florida; it offers world-class attractions and scenery that visitors can experience affordably. The top-rated Siesta Key Beach has picnic areas, playgrounds, and gentle surf ideal for swimming.

At the Ringling Museum Complex, travelers can tour the extravagant Ca’d’Zan mansion, the Museum of Art, and the Circus Museum's memorabilia. Downtown’s vibrant Palm Avenue and Main Street provide pedestrian-friendly shopping and dining.

Visitors can also tour the tranquil Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, walk the scenic Legacy Trail, or catch an outdoor concert downtown. Budget hotels cluster around the airport and Tamiami Trail.

Location : West Central Florida Coast
Top Attractions : Siesta Key Beach, Ringling Museum Complex
Cheap Things To Do : Relax on the beach, explore Ringling Circus/art museums, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, go hiking/biking/kayaking, outdoor movies and concerts downtown in the park
Hotel Cost : From $130 per night

RELATED: 10 Things To Do In Sarasota

Situated along Florida's northwestern Panhandle coastline, Pensacola provides the gorgeous white sand beaches and laid-back vibes of the Gulf Coast without high prices. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and stroll the scenic boardwalk of Pensacola Beach for free. The National Naval Aviation Museum, worth a visit for its massive collection of military aircraft, is also free.

Hiking or biking through the pristine national seashore area takes the traveler to old forts, dunes, and quiet shorelines. Downtown Pensacola and the historic Seville Square district, lined with museums and eateries in 19th-century buildings, offer fun exploring without high admission costs. Budget hotels abound near the airport and beach.

Location : Florida Panhandle Coast
Top Attractions : Pensacola Beach , National Naval Aviation Museum
Cheap Things To Do : Relax on beaches, aviation museum, hike/bike/paddle Gulf Islands National Seashore, visit Fort Pickens, walk historic districts, Seville Square museums
Hotel Cost : From $67 per night

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach gives visitors over 20 miles of sandy Atlantic beaches for driving, swimming, fishing, or simply relaxing oceanside. Travelers can even drive vehicles right on certain sections of the hard-packed sands. Race fans can take behind-the-scenes tours of the iconic Daytona International Speedway at affordable prices.

Also, the Museum of Arts and Sciences features giant sloth skeletons, Cuban art, and race cars for just $17 admission . At night, catch movies or concerts for free on the beach or boardwalk bandshell. Away from the beach, Daytona’s historic downtown and Riverfront Park offer walking trails along the river. Numerous budget hotels line the beachfront.

Top Attractions : Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens , Daytona International Speedway
Cheap Things To Do : Relax on the beach, drive on the beach, watch races/do speedway tours, visit the Museum of Arts and Sciences, walk Daytona Beach Boardwalk, kayak or paddleboard
Hotel Cost : From $64 per night

RELATED: Make Your Spring Break Dreams A Reality At These 10 Top-Rated Daytona Beach Hotels

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale shines as an affordable alternative to neighboring Miami. When visiting in the off-season, there are also plenty of c heap hotels in Fort Lauderdale in the fall and winter.

As for budget-friendly activities, the city's scenic beachfront strip offers over 7 miles of beach with a fun oceanside promenade for walking, jogging, and biking. Las Olas Boulevard delights travelers with sidewalk cafes, boutiques, and galleries under graceful palm trees.

Nearby, the family-friendly Museum of Discovery and Science provides interactive exhibits, while the Bonnet House Estate’s 1930s mansion and gardens offer tours. Cozy cafes, unique shops, and inexpensive trolleys make exploring the Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment District easy and economical. Accommodation ranges from beachside to inland hotels and motels.

Location : Southeast Atlantic Coast
Top Attractions : Fort Lauderdale Beach , Las Olas Boulevard
Cheap Things To Do : Relax on beaches, Las Olas Boulevard boutiques, stroll the Riverwalk, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park trails , Bonnet House Estate tours, Museum of Discovery and Science
Hotel Cost : From $52 per night

Port St. Lucie

Anyone looking to bag the cheapest vacations in Florida should head to Port St. Lucie, which is a fantastic destination , as it offers a peaceful seaside retreat on central Florida's Treasure Coast without big crowds and costs. Visitors delight in 42 miles of unspoiled beaches with guarded swimming areas, playgrounds, and beachside nature preserves perfect for seashell hunting.

Inland lies the Riverwalk District, a waterfront promenade with shops, restaurants, fountains, and walking paths with river views. Travelers can hike wetland boardwalks at the Oxbow Eco-Center or tour the Heathcote Botanical Gardens and its themed gardens.

During spring training season, catch the Mets or Cardinals at affordable ticket prices. Being one of the cheapest vacation destinations in Florida, it's no surprise that budget chain hotels and motels provide easy access to Port St. Lucie’s natural and cultural attractions.

Top Attractions : Port St Lucie Beaches , Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens
Cheap Things To Do : Relax on beaches, kayak/paddle St. Lucie River, spring training games, botanical gardens, hiking Oxbow Eco-Center

10 Of The Cheapest Places To Visit In Florida On A Budget

An ex-Wall Street banker who's visited every country shares 6 places where you can spend less and still travel in luxury

Lee Abbamonte, 45, is an ex-Wall Street banker who has visited every country in the world.
When it comes to destinations where dollars go the furthest, Southeast Asia is his go-to.
In Bangkok, Abbamonte paid less than $50 a night for a Shangri-La hotel and loved the street food.

This summer is shaping up to be one of the hottest on record for the US economy .

Household wealth is at a record high, the job market is strong, and wages are rising faster than inflation. Meanwhile, the dollar has steadily gained against rival currencies. Simply put, Americans have dollars to spend. One question they might have: Where, oh where, to spend it?

Lee Abbamonte has some suggestions. Abbamonte, who quit his Wall Street finance job to become a travel blogger in 2002, has visited every country in the world, every US state , plus the South and North Poles.

Abbamonte's go-to for getting the most bang for your travel buck is Southeast Asia .

In countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia, luxury hotels can cost under $100 a night and street food can be as delicious as fine dining, Abbamonte said.

One downside is that traveling to Southeast Asia from the US can take anywhere from 15 hours to more than a day.

"The hardest part is getting there," added Abbamonte, who last visited the region between 2017 and 2019. "But once you're there, you're in heaven."

Here, Abbamonte shares six countries — in Southeast Asia and beyond — where your vacation budget can buy some indulgent splurges.

During a past trip to Thailand, Abbamonte stayed in a five-star hotel for less than $50 a night.

Thailand is one of Abbamonte's favorite destinations in Southeast Asia, for good reason.

In Bangkok, he said, street food is world-class and high-quality yet inexpensive compared to comparable meals in the US. Abbamonte stayed at several stunning hotels along the Chao Phraya River, which flows through the heart of the city.

"I remember I paid like $39 for the Shangri-La," he said.

A one-night stay at the Shangri-La in Bangkok is a bit more expensive now, according to its website : $162 as of June 2024.

Outside Bangkok, Abbamonte can't get enough of Phuket, an island off the west coast of mainland Thailand brimming with rainforest and white sandy beaches that look straight out of a postcard.

"Some of the best hotels I've ever stayed at in my life are in Phuket," he said. His favorite is Kata Rocks, an oceanfront five-star hotel that is "one of the most beautiful places" Abbamonte has ever been.

"I don't remember exactly what it cost, but it wasn't that much," Abbamonte said, estimating that he spent "around $100" a night.

In July 2024, a one-night stay at Kata Rocks in Phuket costs more than $490 according to its website . That may not seem cheap, but villas in more expensive locations like the Caribbean can cost a lot more.

Vietnam is exceedingly affordable for its stunning vistas and delicious delicacies, he said.

Vietnam is one of Abbamonte's top countries in South Asia, where "the food is cheap and easy, and it's fantastic."

The country is home to some awe-inspiring natural wonders, including Ha Long Bay, which you can explore via luxury overnight cruises with amenities like pools, jacuzzis, and wine cellars from about $190 a night.

"Ha Long Bay, near Hanoi, is one of the most beautiful places in the world," Abbamonte said.

Tourists can also get great deals, he added, in the artsy and history-rich city of Hanoi, the coastal city of Da Nang, and Vietnam's southern capital, Ho Chi Minh City.

In Ho Chi Minh City, Abbamonte recommends stopping by the War Remnants Museum. Known locally as the American War Museum , an adult ticket costs 40 Vietnamese dong, or around $1.50.

Home to exhibits on the Vietnam War and the First Indochina War, Abbamonte said it's his "favorite" museum outside the US.

Money goes a long way in Cambodia, home to a world-class beach scene that relatively few know about.

Another one of Abbamonte's favorite places to splurge without spending too much is Cambodia.

Sandwiched between Thailand and Vietnam, the country is affordable in all the ways that its neighbors are but is more off the beaten path.

"There aren't the tourists you get in Thailand and Vietnam," Abbamonte said.

Most tourists visit Cambodia to see Angkor Wat, an ancient Hindu-Buddhist temple complex near the city of Siem Reap. Abbamonte said the temple, which costs $37 to visit for a day, is worth seeing, but added that the country has so much more to offer.

"There's a lot more going on outside Angkor Wat," he said. "They have nice beaches, and they've really improved their infrastructure."

Some of the most idyllic seaside spots are situated on the tiny islands off of the coastal city of Sihanoukville, like Saracen Bay, a beach on Koh Rong Samloem.

Argentina has some amazing steakhouses that are generally more affordable than their US counterparts.

Abbamonte said many Americans sleep on Argentina, but that it's one of the most affordable, exciting, and pleasant places to visit in South America.

He's particularly fond of Patagonia, a region of mountains, glacial lakes, grasslands, and rainforests that runs through both Argentina and Chile across the southernmost tip of South America.

It's as close to paradise as it gets for Abbamonte, who loves being outdoors — and it doesn't hurt that food and accommodation are inexpensive.

"You can go down there and live it up real cheaply," he added.

The capital of Buenos Aires is also a must-see, Abbamonte added, because it's home to an array of luxury hotels and high-quality steakhouses where American dollars go a long way.

One of his favorite eateries is La Cabrera, a steakhouse in the trendy Palermo Soho neighborhood of Buenos Aires that offers a daily 40% happy hour discount on food and drinks between 6:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. (One blogger who reviewed their La Cabrera meal during a 2023 trip said, at the time, a 21-ounce ribeye cost the equivalent of $45.)

"I'm a meat eater," Abbamonte admitted. "So if you like steak, there's really nowhere better."

Ethiopia offers affordable safari options in awe-inspiring wildlife reserves.

"Ethiopia is one place that I love," Abbamonte said. "It's definitely in my top five African countries."

In the past, he's flown into the capital city of Addis Ababa and stayed in five-star hotels for $100 a night. "They're really, really nice, and you can eat world-class meals for virtually nothing," he added.

While booking safari-type vacations can be "pretty expensive," Abbamonte said more adventurous travelers can always consider camping, which he did during his first trips 20 years ago.

At the time, he said, buying supplies, organizing transport within the park, and getting camping permits cost him between $100 and $200.

For example, foreign tourists visiting the Simien Mountains National Park pay 90 birrs, or around $1.50, for a 24-hour pass and an additional 40 birrs, less than $1, to camp in a tent with up to four people.

Compared to some luxury lodges, it's incredibly affordable, and "you get all the same animals," Abbamonte said, adding that he felt completely safe, given all the park rangers roaming around.

Abbamonte said there's never been a better time to visit Japan, one of his favorite countries in the world.

Japan isn't typically the first country that comes to mind for affordable travel, but Abbamonte said it's never been a better time to book a trip because, as of June 25, $1 buys 159.72 yen.

It's one of the best conversion rates in recent history.

"It's as cheap as it's ever been for the American dollar right now," Abbamonte said. "In Tokyo, the hotels are slashed to a third less than they normally are."

For example, at the Hilton Tokyo, a five-star hotel in the bustling Shinjuku district, one-night stays start at under $300 a night, according to its website .

Abbamonte said Japan is worth the trek — and the steeper prices compared to Southeast Asia — for the unique experiences it offers.

From the Kobe beef in Kobe and the bustling streets of Tokyo to the omakase scene in Osaka and the tranquility and history of Kyoto, there's "nowhere" in Japan Abbamonte doesn't like.

"It's probably the best country in the world," he said.

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Budget Travel

10 Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S.

Stats show that these 10 U.S. destinations will tread lightly on your wallet.

Being short on discretionary funds doesn't mean you can't travel — it just means you have to travel smart. One easy way to tackle budget travel is to stay domestic and stretch your dollar as far as it'll go by planning trips to affordable destinations in the U.S.

According to data pulled from Priceline 's top 100 U.S. destinations, the 10 destinations below offer the most affordable average daily rates at hotels at all star levels. So, get wandering — without breaking the bank. These are the cheapest places to travel in the U.S.

1. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Head to Oklahoma's capital — nicknamed the Modern Frontier — for Western cowboy culture, working stockyards and oil wells, a surprisingly buzzy arts scene, and hotels averaging just $89.47 per night. It's an especially low price for a destination with a slew of new improvements and attractions like the Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center, 70-acre Scissortail Park, streetcar lines, and more. There are also museums , including the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum , Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, and Oklahoma City Museum of Art, but don't miss the opportunity to attend a horse show in the Horse Show Capital of the World — many are free or priced very low.

Oklahoma City is also known for its Bricktown entertainment district, an old warehouse district that transformed into an entertainment hot spot with a scenic canal winding through it. As it undergoes further evolution, expect to see this city get hotter than ever.

2. El Paso, Texas

Don't mess with Texas , and don't ask questions when you find a city that sports average daily hotel rates of $90.95 yet is chock-full of quality attractions like the El Paso Zoo, El Paso Museum of Art, Franklin Mountains State Park, and even the Western Playland amusement park. This Mexican border town, located on the western tip of Texas, also has some deliciously authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex restaurants, so arrive hungry. The Magoffin Home State Historic Site, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is also worth a visit, and admission costs only $7.

3. Tulsa, Oklahoma

Another Oklahoma city, another low average daily hotel rate (this time $93.75). Located on the Arkansas River, Tulsa will delight your eyes with its art deco architecture (mostly in the central Deco District) and your mind with its fascinating history and art, which is best browsed at the Philbrook Museum of Art. Be sure to pay a visit to the Tulsa Historical Society & Museum to learn about the city's history, including the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre . And if you're driving in on old Route 66 , don't miss the Blue Whale of Catoosa, a quirky roadside wonder.

4. Little Rock, Arkansas

The capital of Arkansas, located on the Arkansas River, Little Rock offers a lot to do and see. Plus, with an average daily hotel rate of $95.93, you'll have extra room in your budget for activities and souvenirs.

While the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum, which has a replica of the Oval Office and presidential artifacts, is a top attraction, visitors should also check out the Museum of Discovery, Pinnacle Mountain State Park, Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, and Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, where you can learn about desegregation history. The Big Dam Bridge — ripe for wordplay jokes — is another must-visit.

5. Albuquerque, New Mexico

There's a lot to do and see in the high-desert city of Albuquerque (New Mexico's largest), and each night in a hotel will set you back $98.54 on average. Whether exploring the modern downtown area or adobe-filled Old Town , you can expect a diverse and active destination with rich Native American influence and beautiful scenery. Make sure to include Albuquerque's museums, traditional New Mexican cuisine, and Route 66 on your itinerary. Save room in your budget for a splurge: Albuquerque is the hot-air ballooning capital of the world, making it the perfect place to experience this thrilling adventure.

6. Greenville, South Carolina

Greenville 's thriving downtown area makes it a great place to visit, and the average nightly rates of $99.47 aren't too shabby, either. Ride the free trolleys, tour the town's multiple installations of public art pieces, and don't leave without strolling 36 acres of riverside gardens, waterfall views, and a suspension bridge at Falls Park on the Reedy, the " crown jewel " of downtown Greenville.

7. Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina

You'll find stays for $100.18 per night on average in the metro areas of Raleigh and Durham. Raleigh, the capital of North Carolina , is known for its universities (together with Chapel Hill and Durham, the area makes up a region called the Research Triangle), but there's also great hiking , biking, and BBQ beyond the library walls. Check out the Morgan Street Food Hall and Transfer Co. Food Hall in Raleigh and the Durham Food Hall in Durham for memorable eats from the area's culinary talents.

8. Columbia, South Carolina

Columbia is the capital of South Carolina , but its hotels linger around just $101.46 per night. Don't miss the botanical garden and animals at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, centuries of art at the Columbia Museum of Art, and the sprawling gardens at the Robert Mills House. For fun that's totally free, walk along the canal at Riverfront Park or picnic on the shores of Lake Murray. Congaree National Park is another local favorite, and kids will get a kick out of the hands-on learning experiences at EdVenture Children's Museum.

9. Baltimore, Maryland

For being such a major city, Baltimore's average nightly hotel rates of $102.37 are amazingly low. Make sure to visit the Inner Harbor — one of the oldest seaports in America — for shopping, crab shacks, the National Aquarium , and even a Civil War-era warship. While the Baltimore Museum of Art and Walters Art Museum showcase marvels from the past centuries, the American Visionary Art Museum offers a peek into the future (and the funky). Book lovers, meanwhile, will find a literary wonderland at the George Peabody Library. With gorgeous waterfront views and lots of museums, you can spend your days in Baltimore indoors or outdoors.

10. Somerset, New Jersey

Not far from New York City , Somerset County boasts hotel rates of just $102.60 per night, a far cry from the typically steep prices found in the city. The surroundings couldn't be more different, either: Somerset County has an abundance of parks , preserves, and gardens to enjoy. Head to Snyder's Farm for fresh produce and u-pick berries during the season or Jersey Cyclone Brewing Company to sample locally brewed craft beers.

Looking for more cheap places to travel in the U.S.? Here's the bottom 10 cities from Priceline's top 20 list:

11. Lexington, KY ($102.69 average nightly rate)

12. Dallas , TX ($102.80)

13. Houston , TX ($103.60)

14. Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN ($103.65)

15. Des Moines, IA ($103.74)

16. Detroit, MI ($104.76)

17. Columbus, OH ($104.84)

18. Rochester, NY ($105.09)

19. Charlotte, NC ($105.25)

20. San Jose, CA ($105.73)

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15 Cheap, Beautiful Places To Retire

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If you’re like most people facing retirement , you’re working with a limited budget. Even so, that doesn’t mean you have to settle for living out your golden years in a less-than-desirable locale just to make ends meet.

Retirement should be about enjoying your life with minimal stress and spending some time in an environment you find pleasing. To do that on a budget, though, you’ll need to choose a retirement destination that’s not only affordable but also features a high quality of life with a low cost of living. To assist you in your relocation plans, GOBankingRates looked at hundreds of U.S. cities to find the cheapest places to retire that feature favorable weather.

To rank in the study, each city had to meet the following requirements: More than 12% of the population had to be 65 or older in age, the total monthly expenditure dollar amount — including rent — had to be under $9,000 and the average livability score had to fall higher than 60.

Check out these beautiful places to retire that won’t stretch your bank account.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Total population: 1,311
Percentage of population 65 and older: 25.71%
Livability score: 79
Total monthly expenditures including rent: $7,760

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Total population: 86,935
Percentage of population 65 and older: 23.8%
Livability score: 77
Total monthly expenditures including rent: $5,300

Whitefish, Montana

Total population: 7,783
Percentage of population 65 and older: 18.72%
Livability score: 82
Total monthly expenditures including rent: $7,042

Marfa, Texas

Total population: 1,838
Percentage of population 65 and older: 25.68%
Livability score: 74
Total monthly expenditures including rent: $3,610

Stowe, Vermont

Total population: 823
Percentage of population 65 and older: 63.30%
Livability score: 61
Total monthly expenditures including rent: $8,671

Leavenworth, Washington

Total population: 2,395
Percentage of population 65 and older: 14.20%
Livability score: 84
Total monthly expenditures including rent: $6,214

San Antonio

Total population: 1,434,540
Percentage of population 65 and older: 12.52%
Total monthly expenditures including rent: $3,407

Portland, Maine

Total population: 68,063
Percentage of population 65 and older: 15.33%
Livability score: 83
Total monthly expenditures including rent: $5,085

Seward, Arkansas

Total population: 2,614
Percentage of population 65 and older: 15.61%
Total monthly expenditures including rent: $4,158
Total population: 634,786
Percentage of population 65 and older: 14.83%
Total monthly expenditures including rent: $4,529

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

Total population: 292
Percentage of population 65 and older: 37.33%
Livability score: 71
Total monthly expenditures including rent: $4,379

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Total population: 53,189
Percentage of population 65 and older: 18.5%
Total monthly expenditures including rent: $5,160

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Total population: 21,897
Percentage of population 65 and older: 20.32%
Livability score: 86
Total monthly expenditures including rent: $6,416

St. Augustine, Florida

Total population: 13,994
Percentage of population 65 and older: 26.65%
Livability score: 85
Total monthly expenditures including rent: $4,697

Naples, Florida

Total population: 19,187
Percentage of population 65 and older: 52.91%
Total monthly expenditures including rent: $6,270

Jordan Rosenfeld and Cynthia Measom contributed to the reporting for this article.

Methodology: To find the most beautiful and cheap places to retire, GOBankingRates analyzed cities across the United States that are considered the most beautiful, sourced from Forbes’s Most Beautiful Cities, CNTraveler’s Most Beautiful Towns in America, and RoamingTheUSA’s Most Beautiful Cities in the USA. For each city on the list, the cost of living across multiple expenditure categories was found, including [1] Grocery cost of living index, [2] Healthcare cost of living index, [3] Utilities cost of living index, [4] Transportation cost of living index, [5] Miscellaneous cost of living index, all sourced from Sperlings BestPlaces. The cost of living indexes were multiplied by the national averages for each expenditure category as sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics 2022 Consumer Expenditure Survey, giving an average expenditure cost for each category for each city. For each city, the average home value was sourced from Zillow Home Value Index, and using the current National 30-year Fixed Rate Mortgage sourced from Federal Reserve Economic Research, the average mortgage cost for each city was determined. The total monthly expenditure cost and the average monthly mortgage can be totaled to find the total monthly cost for each city. The total population and the population of 65 and over was also included, as sourced from the U.S. Census American Consumer Survey. The population 65 and over was scored and weighted at 1.00, the livability index was scored and weighted at 1.25, and the total monthly cost was scored and weighted at 1.25. All scores were summed and sorted to show the cities that are the cheapest and most beautiful places to retire. All data was collected and is up-to-date as-of Sept. 28th, 2023.

Photo Disclaimer: Please note photos are for representational purposes only. As a result, some of the photos might not reflect the locations listed in this article.

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John Lewis is keeping its school uniform prices frozen for the fourth year running.

The department store chain also offers parents an online school uniform checklist to help prepare for the start of the new year.

It also offers a free shoe-fitting service, while some of its newer school uniform products released in the last three years have not seen a price rise.

John Lewis school uniform buyer Cydney Ball said: "Our customers trust us as the one-stop-shop for all things back to school."

Cineworld is drawing up plans to axe dozens of British cinemas as part of a radical restructuring that would also include extensive rent cuts.

Sky News has learned that the company, which until last year was listed on the London Stock Exchange, is considering closing about a quarter of its roughly-100 British multiplexes.

Cineworld also wants to renegotiate rent agreements at a further 50 sites, with the remaining 25 untouched by the restructuring.

Sources said the proposals were expected to be formally outlined to creditors including landlords in the coming weeks.

Read the full story here...

A safety charity has warned England fans against buying cheap electronics online amid a "blitz" of advertising.

Electrical Safety First is urging fans bombarded with ads for discounted goods "don't bring it home" in a new campaign to raise awareness of unregulated online marketplaces.

The charity have previously uncovered substandard and dangerous electrical products across major online marketplaces.

Examples of such include portable heaters posing a serious risk of electrocution, hair straighteners and hair dryers featuring illegal UK plugs and e-bike chargers that pose a fire risk.

"Football, and other global sporting events, are experiencing advertising blitzes by major online marketplaces across the globe, and at a time when millions of people are struggling with finances, we understand how appealing low-cost deals will be," said Electrical Safety First's chief executive Lesley Rudd.

"But it's important for fans to remember that they risk scoring an own goal if the deal they bag turns out to be a substandard or dangerous product.

"Substandard electronics can have serious consequences for your safety and an innocent purchase could put you and your family at risk."

The charity makes the following suggestions to consumers selecting electronics from online marketplaces:

Pay attention to the plug - if a product is listed with a foreign plug and travel adaptor, do not buy it.
Do not buy on price alone - not all bargains are worth it
Make sure you do your homework if you decide to buy products below high street retail prices.
Beware of a product with solely glowing reviews, especially if the reviewers are not verified.
Make sure you know where the supplier is based - a "co.uk" URL doesn't guarantee the website is UK-based.
If there is no address supplied, or there is just a PO Box, be wary; many dodgy electrical goods are manufactured overseas.
Look for websites that allow you to pay safely – these have a padlock symbol in the address bar of the website you are visiting. If you cannot see it, do not enter your payment details.

Consumer spending on car purchases has risen three times faster than for public transport journeys, new figures show.

Around £57.4bn was spent in the UK on new and used cars in 2023, up 6% on five years earlier, according to AA analysis of Office for National Statistics data.

By comparison, consumer spending on public transport - including rail, buses, flights and taxis - was £60.9bn, representing a 2% increase on five years ago.

AA head of roads policy Jack Cousens claimed the figures highlight how vital motoring was for people in the UK, as well as the country's finances.

He said: "These latest ONS figures underline the UK's reliance on cars and the huge amounts of money they generate for the economy - not to mention VAT on that spending, and other tax.

"Cars are not just necessary but essential on so many levels. Even if a significant amount of car use was transformed into take-up of public transport, the impact on the economy and other income generation would be dramatic.

"Just think how much councils would lose if a high percentage of cars stopped turning up to their car parks or needing parking permits, and getting fined.

"The key question is whether what consumers spend on cars would translate into income for public transport and cover the cost of infrastructure investment to enable that.

"It seems that getting travelling consumers to fork out for their own transport and its maintenance, and then tax the heck out of them, is a pretty good deal for the public purse."

Running a car also accounted for a large chunk of the £78.6bn spent on what is described as the operation of personal transport, with spending on fuel and lubricants up 20% since 2018 to £41.7bn.

New car purchases down

But despite the fact more consumers are spending money on cars than on public transport, the number of purchases of new cars by private buyers has declined for nine months in a row, new figures show.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said 67,625 new cars were registered by private consumers in June, down 15.3% from 79,798 during the same month last year.

Ian Plummer, commercial director at Auto Trader, said: "With average new car prices rising almost 40% over the last five years, it's clear cost is the culprit.

"Manufacturers are responding with discounts but they're failing to keep pace, which is forcing many buyers to opt for a used alternative.

"Whoever forms the next government needs to address electric car affordability and provide long-term stability for the market."

Environmental impact

Despite comments from the AA, the billions of pounds spent by consumers every year on cars is having a clear effect on UK roads - where overall traffic levels in 2023 were 2.2% higher than the previous year.

More cars on the roads means more air pollution, which is among the biggest environmental health risks facing people in the UK.

Burning petrol and diesel fuel creates harmful by products like nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide, while vehicles emit carbon dioxide, the most common human-caused greenhouse gas.

Even electric vehicles produce particulate matter from the friction between their tyres and the road.

Researchers from University College London estimated that 48,625 adults die prematurely each year in the UK due to particulate matter pollution.

Presently, 79% of the UK exceeds the World Health Organization's (WHO) annual mean guideline for safe fine particulate matter levels.

A Greek restaurant has faced criticism for its "rip off" prices.

Holidaymakers have been warned to stay away from DK Oyster on the popular holiday island of Mykonos, which has received swathes of bad reviews on Tripadvisor .

The restaurant, which describes itself as being an "oasis of ultimate luxury and extravagance", has an average star rating of two on the website - although, in the interests of balance, it has 4.8 on Google reviews.

Angry punters say they were lured into buying a drink at DK Oyster after being told the sunbeds were free, only for the prices for those drinks to be sky-high.

Among the latest to complain is Lori E, who said she returned home from her Greek holiday to see a charge of $876 (£690) for two drinks.

She wrote: "Total rip off! Make sure you get a receipt before leaving and check your credit card because they over charge.

"Was told beds were free to sit it if we order food or drink. No problem....ordered 2 drinks which we afterwards saw were 51 euros each.

"If that wasn't crazy enough we returned to the states and had a $876 charge on our account. FOR 2 DRINKS!!!"

The tourists are now trying to dispute the charge with their credit card company after never receiving a paper copy of a receipt.

Responding to the Tripadvisor review, DK Oyser said: "Our sunbeds come with minimum consumption, so we encourage all visitors to check the menus, before placing their orders.

"I would like to note that our menus are displayed on blackboards near the entrance, showing the prices of our food and drinks to keep our guests informed."

Other reviews claim DK Oyser charged them £253 for sea bass and £100 for a jumbo shrimp that "wasn't cooked properly".

DK Oyster has been contacted for comment.

Iceland is set to partner with parenting website Mumsnet to launch a range of children's products.

Mumsnet CEO Justine Roberts, and the brand's partnership director Sarah Murray-Muncila, met with members of Iceland's innovation team last week to work on the products.

According to The Grocer , the new products will hit the stores in early 2025.

"We've been working on something truly special in partnership with Iceland Foods," Mumsnet said.

"Big things are happening for little ones."

Iceland has launched several new collaborations in recent months, including exclusive products with brands such as Slimming World, MyProtein and boxer Tyson Fury's Furocity.

It's not just a big day in the UK with voters heading to the polls but also in the US with 4 July celebrations taking place.

And there's plenty to celebrate for those with a stake in US stocks.

Last night, there was another record high for the S&P 500 index that tracks the share price performance of the 500 largest companies listed on US stock exchanges.

The performance of companies on the tech firm-heavy New York-based NASDAQ too reached a new high.

It came as Elon Musk's Tesla saw its share price reaching a six-month high, along with the rise and rise of trillion-dollar AI microchip maker Nvidia.

Today and tomorrow will likely be quieter as the US markets close.

In the UK, both the Financial Times Stock Exchange (FTSE) 100 and 250 indexes are up - 0.76% in the list of 100 most valuable companies and 0.42% in the 101st to 250th most valued firms.

While the pound does by buy less euro than it did earlier this month, with £1 equal to €1.18 it's still buying more than during most of the last year.

Against the dollar, sterling has held the gains of the last few weeks and a pound will get you $1.2749.

There is no let up for motorists as the oil price is sticking around the two-month high mark. A barrel of the benchmark Brent crude oil costs $86.59.

As house prices continue to rise, so too does the age at which young people can expect to own their own home.

Unfortunately, even the ceiling of the term "young people" isn't far off from being challenged - with fresh research suggesting that the average age of a first-time buyer in the UK is 33 years and 8 months old, according to Mojo Mortgages .

In comparison, in 1960, the average first-time buyer was 23 years old, according to separate research by Keepmoat Homes.

Comparatively, however, the average age of a first-time buyer in 2014 was 32 years, 6 months old, according to the Office for National Statistics.

During the same period, the average price of a house in the UK rose from around £188,000 (January 2014) to £282,000 ( January this year).

Back to today's figures - and those in Wales are able to buy their homes the youngest, with the data suggesting the average first-time buyer there is 31 years old.

Naturally, the older you buy a home, the later in life you'll pay off a mortgage.

With an average mortgage length of 30 years, it seems the average UK first-time buyer isn't expected to be mortgage-free until they are 63 years and 8 months old.

And if you live in the capital, you'll surpass the current retirement age at 66 years, 8 months.

Here's a full breakdown of how old first-time buyers are, the average mortgage length and age they can expect to be mortgage-free by region...

A lot of people have had to renegotiate or extend their mortgages thanks to soaring interest rates in recent years - and the data from Mojo tells us a little about that too.

The study found extending your mortgage term by 10 years (to 35 years) will cost today's average first-time buyer an extra £110,640, which may impact later life planning and their pension.

Barclaycard is cutting the minimum amount its customers have to repay each month.

While the move may sound like good news on the surface, it could well mean you're in debt for longer and end up paying more interest.

At the moment, most Barclaycard customers have a minimum repayment of 3.75% of their balance, 2.5% of their balance plus interest, or £5.

But, from 22 July, that will change to the highest amount out of:

1% of their balance
1% of their balance plus interest

This means if you are currently only paying the minimum on your card, you'll likely repay less each month.

But, minimum amounts are designed to keep people in debt for as long as possible, and lowering them just makes this period even longer.

MoneySavingExpert says the change means it could now take a customer with a £1,000 debt an extra decade to pay it off, if they only pay the minimum amount.

On average, it says it will take 19 years and three months to clear and the interest will total £1,655.

Founder of MoneySavingExpert Martin Lewis says the change is "worryingly under the radar" and urged customers to check if their repayments are set to the minimum amount.

"Minimum repayments have always been credit card firms' secret weapon. Letting people repay little looks appealing – hence why Barclaycard says this is about 'flexibility'. Yet it takes flexibility to kick your own backside, and this will hurt some just as much," he said.

A Barclays spokesperson told Sky News: "We regularly review our products and from July, some Barclaycard customers will see changes to their minimum monthly payments, alongside adjustments to the APR.

"Customers will benefit from a reduction in their minimum monthly repayment and the vast majority have no change to APR, while some will receive a decrease.

"We have made these changes to increase flexibility for our customers and have been clear in our communications that paying more than the minimum can help customers clear their balance sooner and pay less interest."

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The population 65 and over was scored and weighted at 1.00, the livability index was scored and weighted at 1.25, and the total monthly cost was scored and weighted at 1.25. All scores were summed and sorted to show the cities that are the cheapest and most beautiful places to retire. All data was collected and is up-to-date as-of Sept. 28th, 2023.
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21 Cheap Places to Travel in 2024

South Korea

South Africa

Philippines

North Macedonia

The 31 Cheapest Places to Travel in 2024

Our Favorite Cheap Destinations Quick List:

1. Laos, $30/day

2. Vietnam, $30/day

3. Cambodia, $30/day

4. Northern Thailand, $32/day

5. Indonesia, $35/day

6. The Philippines, $37/day

7. Malaysia, $40/day

8. Sri Lanka, $35/day

9. Nepal, $25/day ($15/day if trekking)

10. Taiwan, $45/day

11. India, $30/day

12. Kyrgyzstan, $25/day

13. Uzbekistan, $35/day

14. Romania, $40/day

15. Georgia, $30/day

16. Greece, $45/day

17. Czechia, $40/day

18. Poland, $44/day

19. Croatia, $50/day

20. Turkey, $45/day

21. Lithuania, $44/day

22. Estonia, $44/day

23. Latvia, $47/day

The Americas

25. Nicaragua, $35/day

26. Guatemala, $38/day

27. Colombia, $35/day

28. Arizona & Utah (for a road trip!), $45/day

29. South Africa, $42/day

30. Namibia, $45/day

31. Egypt, $30/day

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20 Best Cheap Places to Travel in 2024

Lassen Volcanic National Park, California

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Badlands, South Dakota

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, West Virginia

Door County, Wisconsin

Panama City, Panama

Québec City, Canada

Titusville, Florida

Washington, DC

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Indianapolis, Indiana

Big Bear Lake, California

Leesburg, Virginia

Flagstaff, Arizona

Columbus, Ohio

Galveston, Texas

San Juan, Puerto Rico

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