7 Budget-Friendly US Vacation Spots That Will Blow Your Mind

Finding cheap vacation spots in the USA can be a struggle, especially nowadays when money’s tight. While most of us desire and deserve to take an amazing vacation, finding a way to pay for it can be challenging. No worries. We’ve scoured the US of A to bring you seven vacation spots that’ll make both your heart and your bank account sing. So grab your flip-flops, dust off that fanny pack, and let’s dive into some budget-friendly shenanigans!

Let’s face it: most of us are as broke as a joke these days. But that doesn’t mean we can’t have a blast on cheap vacation!

In fact, 78% of Americans say they prefer budget-friendly travel options (okay, we made that stat up, but it sounds legit, right?). So, we’ve handpicked these seven gems scattered across the country, ensuring there’s a pocket-friendly paradise near you.

But first, let’s talk turkey about getting there without selling a kidney.

Transportation Hacks – Because Getting There is Half the Fun (and Expense)

• Road Trip Warriors: Gas up that minivan and hit the road! It’s often cheaper to drive, plus you can pretend you’re in a 90s movie montage.
• Flight Fanatics: Use Skyscanner to compare flights. Sometimes, flying and renting a car is cheaper than driving your gas-guzzler across the country.
• Car Rental Tip: Check out DiscoverCars for the best rates. Just don’t try to drift in a minivan, okay?

Now, let’s dive into our magnificent seven budget-friendly destinations!

7 Cheap Vacation Spots in the USA

Other than transportation costs, the next largest expense when planning for a cheap vacation is reserving accommodations. Oftentimes, and almost in every U.S. city, we’re able to book a nice hotel for less than $75 per night. We simply follow these steps, as outlined in one of our other articles.

If you’re planning on staying in one spot for one week or more, make sure to search vacation rentals on VRBO. Generally, a cheap vacation rental can save vacationers a considerable amount of money over traditional hotel stays. For example, consider that with today’s high food costs, many meals will be able to be made from the vacation rental.

Approximately 85 percent of the total cost of a ‘budget-savvy’ vacation is incurred through transportation and lodging costs. Therefore, by keeping these expenses low, you’ll be able to make sure you’re vacation is within budget.

The seven cheap vacation spots in the U.S. below are amazing and affordable, and the bomb!💣

1. Go Tanking in Nebraska

Ever thought, “Gee, I wish I could float down a river in a giant metal tub”? Well, dreams do come true in Nebraska! Welcome to the wacky world of tanking, where livestock watering tanks become your personal party boats.

The tanks typically hold three to six people, are seven to 10 feet in diameter, and are oftentimes customized to include chairs, benches, and even picnic tables. Best of all, the tanks at Dusty Trails are big enough to hold your standard cooler!

• 🧳 Pack This: Universal Waterproof Phone Pouch
• 📖 Read This: It Happened in Nebraska: Stories of Events and People that Shaped Cornhusker State History 
• 🏨 Stay Here: Husker Inn

2. Live the Good Life in Virginia Beach

With 14 miles of free public beaches, Virginia Beach is like the all-you-can-eat buffet of coastal destinations. Minus the weird potato salad that’s been sitting out too long.

In terms of recreational activities, Virginia Beach offers visitors plenty of opportunities to go kayaking, hiking, biking, golfing, fishing, and dolphin and whale watching. Also, one of the most popular activities is Indoor Skydiving with 2 Flights, it’s totally addicting!

• 🧳 Pack This: Igloo Tagalong Cooler
• 📖 Read This: Virginia Beach Boardwalk Scavenger Hunt Game
• 🏨 Stay Here: Ocean Key Resort or Angie’s Guest Cottage

3. Feel the Southern Charm of Charleston

Y’all ready for some Southern charm? Charleston’s got it in spades, along with enough history to make your high school teacher proud. Strolling down the enchanting streets, it’s impossible to miss the smell of wisteria and jasmine fragrances, along with the enticing scent of she-crab soup.

Tip: Make a reservation for a scenic boat cruise—it’s the ideal way to orient yourself to the city.

All those charming bits and pieces of the South—gracious hospitality, courtly manners, stately homes, and sumptuous food are an element of everyday life here. Certainly, the ideal way to tour Charleston is to simply mosey along the fascinating streets, admiring the antebellum architecture and laidback atmosphere.

• 🧳 Pack This: Affordable Yet Fashionable Hat
• 📖 Read This: A Short History of Charleston
• 🏨 Stay Here: Best Western Charleston Inn

4. Discover the Old and New in San Antonio

Remember the Alamo? No? Well, here’s your chance to see it in person! San Antonio is where old meets new, and budget meets “Wow, I can afford that!” San Antonio is home to several Spanish missions that were established during the 1700s, and the vibey River Walk. The juxtaposition of old versus new makes a visit to San Antonio unlike any other city in the U.S., and easily one of the most beautiful.

Tucked among cypress trees and towering buildings, and shielded from the noise of traffic, the River Walk draws visitors from all over the world. Visitors should expect to hear the sound of mariachi music and smell mouth-watering Tex-Mex cuisine food while strolling along the river.

Tip: Even if you have a car, taking a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is probably the easiest way to see San Antonio’s top landmarks and attractions, stress-free!

Boutique hotels, shops, galleries, romantic bridges, and an abundance of restaurants with alfresco dining line the river. Theme park enthusiasts will find adventure at San Antonio’s SeaWorld and Six Flags Fiesta Texas.

• 🧳 Pack This: Authentic and Stylish Wrangler Jeans
• 📖 Read This: The Great Book of Texas: The Crazy History of Texas with Amazing Random Facts & Trivia
• 🏨 Stay Here: La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Antonio Downtown

5. Get Wild in Lake Havasu City

Home to the infamous London Bridge (yes, that London Bridge), Lake Havasu City is where the desert meets oasis. It’s like Las Vegas but with more water and fewer regrettable decisions. Along with this interesting piece of European architecture, the city is all about getting wild with nature, both on land and in the water.

Whether it’s enjoying watersports on the lake or exploring the desert by off-road vehicle, a cheap vacation to Lake Havasu City is sure to be adventurous. Breezy palm trees mingle with sandy beaches and red rock mountains, providing visitors with a truly unique vacation experience.

• 🧳 Pack This: Massive Beach Blanket
• 📖 Read This: Arizona Bucket List Adventure: 50 Must-see Natural Wonders in the Grand Canyon State
• 🏨 Stay Here: Quality Inn & Suites Lake Havasu City

6. Relive the Old West in Tucson

Yeehaw, partner! Tucson is where the Wild West meets modern-day adventure. Don’t worry, gun-slinging skills are not required (but appreciated). Located in the Sonoran Desert, where the average winter temperature is 70°F, this region of the U.S. is almost guaranteed to have bright blue skies all year round with 340+ days of sunshine.

Tip: Tombstone is one of the most haunted towns in the country. Visitors must stay overnight and go on The Bullets and Bordellos Ghost Tour in Tombstone.

Vacationers enjoy exploring the Santa Catalina Mountains and partaking in fabulous outdoor activities such as hiking, golfing, cycling, and horseback riding. Add excursions to the nearby Coronado National Forest to see the Cochise Stronghold, Tombstone to relive the Old West, and Brisbee to tour an old historic mining town.

• 🧳 Pack This: Original BUFF for a scarf, headband, bandana, hat, or face protection
• 📖 Read This: Tombstone: The Earp Brothers, Doc Holliday, and the Vendetta Ride from Hell
• 🏨 Stay Here: Graduate Tucson and  The Tombstone Grand Hotel

7. Enjoy Sand and Sunshine Along the Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores is like Florida’s chill cousin who doesn’t need to show off. Expect pristine beaches, outdoor adventures, and a distinct lack of mouse-themed attractions. In short, Gulf Shores is simply a budget-savvy version of a Florida beach vacation, minus the congestion and high prices.

Gulf Shores is the most expensive destination on the list but once there you’ll know why. It’s beautiful! As a result, lodging is on the expensive side. If possible, use Booking.com to search for an affordable vacation rental to save money.

Tip: One of the easiest and most affordable ways ($21 pp) to get out on the water is by taking the Gulf Coast Dolphin Cruise.

• 🧳 Pack This: SUN NINJA Pop-Up Beach Tent
• 📖 Read This: Gulf Coast Seashore Life: A Folding Pocket Guide to Familiar Animals and Plants
• 🏨 Stay Here: Motel 6-Gulf Shores

7 Budget-savvy Ways to Cut Costs on Your Next Vacation

Below are seven travel hacks for saving money while on vacation. These are tips that we live by. However, make sure you sacrifice in the right places. If the trade-off makes you miserable but it saves you money, don’t do it.

Tip: Only compromise on comfort to the point that it won’t negatively impact your trip.

Here are seven easy ways to save money while enjoying your cheap vacation spot:

1. Travel During the Off-Season

Traveling during the peak season can easily cost twice as much, and you’ll have to deal with the bottleneck of people. Simply, book in the shoulder season and enjoy the same great weather with fewer people and at half the price.

2. Stay Five Minutes Outside of the Touristy Area

Many people are surprised by how much they can save by staying across the street or a five-minute walk from the most heavily touristed areas. Accommodation booked outside of the lively area will allow you to save a bit of money, get some exercise, and experience new neighborhoods.

Tip: Once you’ve searched for your ideal vacation spot, use Booking.com’s map feature to find accommodation just outside the touristy area, within walking distance.

3. Find a Cheap Vacation Spot Off the Beaten Path

It’s simply a supply and demand issue. Less popular places will usually have lower prices. For example, you might have a great vacation in the panhandle of Florida, however, Gulf Shores, Alabama will provide a similar or better experience.

4. Contact Your Host and Ask For a Deal

Always ask for a discount when booking a vacation rental. We’re constantly surprised by how much hosts will discount their price simply by asking.

5. Save Money Ahead of Time

There’s probably no better feeling in the world than going on a vacation and knowing that it’s paid off. Save money ahead of time to cover your planned and unexpected expenses.

6. Vacation Rentals Will Allow You to Cook Meals From Home

Eating out can quickly eat away at your budget. Many times, even though a vacation rental may cost more upfront when food is included, it may end up saving you money. Carefully, crunch the numbers ahead of time to see if a vacation rental makes sense.

7. Book in Advance

Many hotels, such as Wyndham will give 15-20 percent discounts for booking seven days in advance.

There you have it, folks! Seven cheap vacation spots that prove you don’t need to rob a bank to have a good time. From floating in a metal tub in Nebraska to channeling your inner cowboy in Tucson, these destinations offer unique experiences that won’t leave your wallet crying in the corner.

Remember, the best vacations are about the memories you make, not the money you spend. So grab your budget-savvy buddies, pick a spot, and get ready for an adventure that’s easy on the wallet but big on fun. Happy travels, and may the deals be ever in your favor!

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