Writing about summer vacations last week got my wheels turning, and I thought it would be fun to research a few budget friendly vacation ideas. The news is good! There are plenty of inexpensive ways enjoy a vacation. Below I’ve listed my five favorite cheap vacation ideas.
Camping
Camping is the quintessential cheap vacation. Many campgrounds, including state and national parks, offer super reasonable rates. If you’re not interested in sleeping in a tent, many campsites offer lean-tos and cabins to rent. Additionally, some campgrounds have built in family entertainment including beaches, pools, hot tubs, game rooms, and playgrounds.
Visit Family and Friends
It is road trip time! A great way to save on accommodations is by staying with friends and family on your vacation, and let’s face it, they would love the chance to see you. Since you are saving on hotel costs, this frees up extra money to devote to sightseeing, food, and other travel expenses.
Play Travel Roulette
If you have an open mind about your vacation destination, consider playing a little game of travel roulette. Several airlines and travel websites offer last minute airfare sales, usually within a month of the departure date. In most cases these deals are only good for select cities, but if you’re open to adventure travel roulette can be a fun way to indulge in cheap travel.
Staycation
Plan an exciting vacation right in your hometown or region. Think about it. When was the last time you visited the local attractions in your area?
Here are 10 inexpensive staycation adventure ideas:
- Visit a local museum, library, aquarium or zoo
- Visit a local tourist attraction (factory, brewery, etc.)
- Visit a local state or national park or beach
- Go to a show at your local community theatre
- Support your local minor league or college sports team by attending a game
- Visit a new playground or park
- Go out to eat at a new restaurant and try something new
- Go camping in your own backyard
- Have a picnic lunch
- Go bowling, mini golfing, or visit an arcade
Visit a New City
Some cities are more inexpensive than others. Consider visiting a new city based on its lower cost. Some inexpensive destinations including Charlotte North Carolina, Phoenix Arizona, and Savannah Georgia.
Utilize Airbnb to snag a good deal on accommodations. Airbnb is an online marketplace that connects people looking to rent their homes with people who are looking for accommodations. Hosts list and rent out their unused space, and travels search and book accommodations. Airbrb is currently in 192 countries worldwide, so there is definitely a destination for everyone.
What are your favorite ways to save on a vacation?
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Great ideas. I have a pretty low vacation budget this year and I took a staycation last month and had a ton of fun. Living the Chicagoland area there’s plenty to do without even having to travel
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Staycation is really perfect especially when you have a limited time and budget. I’m planning to treat my family to a newly open restaurant in our small city.
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