5 Tips for Budget-Friendly US Travel

Consider cities that are usually overlooked. Major cities like Los Angeles or New York City often have a higher price tag on everything from hotels to transportation and meals. Chat with friends who live in different areas of the country and ask for recommended destinations that are less well known. Smaller cities like Asheville, North Carolina or Astoria, Oregon aren’t necessarily considered among the top US attractions, but their unique charm and beauty can make for an unforgettable getaway at a much lower price.

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Get creative with flights. When you’re researching flights, experiment with flight times, dates, and locations. Early morning or late night flights often come at a discounted price, as do flights with layovers. Weekend flights are usually more expensive than weekday flights. And sometimes you can find cheaper options flying in and out of outlying airports rather than major city hubs. Build in flexibility in your travel times and dates so you can take advantage of the best flight deals.

Travel during off-peak season. Not only do seasonal resorts drop their rates during the off season, but you’ll also enjoy fewer crowds, less traffic, and alternate activities. For example, popular ski resorts charge higher rates during snowy months, but the same accommodations—nestled in the same mountains—are beautiful during the summer and fall, too. In warmer months they offer hiking and mountain biking instead, either for free or at a fraction of the cost of a peak-season lift ticket.

Make it a camping road trip. The US national parks are stunningly beautiful and rich in history and activities. You can even plan your travel around free national park days! Pack a tent or rent an RV and visit some of the country’s most iconic places for a fraction of the cost of airfare and hotels. Shop at grocery stores along the way and make your own simple meals and snacks like sandwiches, hot dogs, and s’mores for about the same price as your usual grocery budget. If you’ll be visiting more than one national park, buy an America the Beautiful annual pass that covers entrance fees to any national park and save on the cost of individual park visits.

Take advantage of free attractions. Get a feel for the local scene with free attractions like markets, beaches, outdoor festivals, city parks, or hiking and biking trails. It’s a great way to explore, have casual conversations with locals, and learn more about the area. Stop by the city’s visitor information center or do your research online before you visit. Then pack a picnic and head out to experience the city without spending a dime.

Whether you want to see the top city attractions or unwind in nature, it’s as easy as doing a little research and getting creative! As you go, record your experiences in a trip journal for future reference so you can enjoy them again and share them with others.