Budget Travel Tips for Iconic US Destinations
You finally settle on a destination for your next US vacation, and just minutes into planning, it hits: sticker shock. The bubble of excitement can easily burst when confronted with reality. Luckily, there’s nearly always a solution.
The US is so vast and varied. One budget tip works for almost every expensive destination: go somewhere else. Cheaper alternatives exist in every direction, and lesser-known destinations often hold more surprises for a curious traveler.
However, there’s often no need to squash your travel dreams so quickly. A little know-how can go a long way to turn a would-be budget-crusher into an affordable adventure. Moreover, it may even add some unexpected fun.
Hawaii
The good news about Hawaii is that relaxing on the beach, swimming, and hiking are all free. The bad news is that nearly everything else comes at a premium.
The simplest way to save money is straightforward Hawaiian advice: stay put and chill out. Set aside any island-hopping plans; not only does it cost money, but it also takes time and often ruins your mellow.
Timing is everything. If willing to wait for cheap fares that typically surface toward the end of the year, you can often fly to Hawaii from the US for less than a cross-country flight. Therefore, going in winter has its advantages: surf will be higher in some spots (bad for snorkelers, good for surfers), and a bit more rain may bring rainbows.
For good eats, do as the locals do. Shop at one of the many farmers’ markets, and sign up for local grocery store loyalty cards. It only takes a minute and can alleviate some of the sting of high food prices in Hawaii. Many visitors miss some of the best local food—fresh saimin noodle soup or a Hawaiian plate lunch can save enough cash for a delightful Hawaiian shave ice afterward.
Las Vegas
What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, or so the slogan goes. However, if you’re not careful, what really stays in Las Vegas is all your hard-earned cash.
Let’s lay the cards on the table: Las Vegas can be surprisingly cheap if you can resist temptation. Vegas attracts travelers with affordable hotel rooms, rental cars, and vacation packages. Use this to your advantage.
Hotel deals are easy to find, even right on the Strip, especially if you don’t mind older or less trendy properties. Even better deals exist in the revitalized downtown, where a retro vibe awaits. Remember, hotel rooms are simply where you sleep: stay in a budget room and explore the splashiest casino at your leisure.
The easiest way to resist Vegas’ money-draining temptations is to leave—and you don’t have to go far. In Valley of Fire State Park, Red Rock Canyon, and Sloan Canyon National Conservation Areas, all just short drives away, nature offers stunning views that make the lights of the Strip pale in comparison.
New York City
New York City’s most famous attractions can drain your wallet faster than ordering a pastrami sandwich, but those pricey options barely scratch the surface of what NYC has to offer.
Finding budget-friendly activities is not a challenge. Art lovers can explore galleries in Chelsea, fashionistas can enjoy exhibits at the Fashion Institute of Technology, and bookworms can lose hours in the New York Public Library, all for free. New York caters to all interests, and you might even discover a new favorite pastime.
Good advice for any budget-minded trip: head for a park. New York’s Central Park stands out as more than just a park; it’s a venue for both planned and spontaneous events, an outdoor gallery, a free botanical garden, a bike path, and a backdrop for famous movie scenes.
Although the city may never sleep, you’ll need to rest at some point. Traditionally, the outer boroughs offer the best deals, but you can still find bargains in Manhattan. Why drop extra cash on a sterile chain hotel when you can immerse yourself in real NYC history and atmosphere at unique accommodations like the jazzy Harlem Flophouse or the artsy Carlton Arms?
Jackson Hole
The name may contain ‘hole,’ but Jackson Hole is a decidedly upscale spot. The cowboy hats are taller, and the boots shinier. Not everyone is ‘all hat, no cattle,’ as locals often note: this remains ranching country, not just a retreat for the wealthy.
The crowds around Jackson and Teton Village draw visitors for winter skiing or summer exploration of Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. Budget seekers should target spring and autumn; spring wildflowers or fall aspens turning gold can be equally enchanting.
However, Jackson Hole’s luxe reputation isn’t entirely true. There’s still a hostel: The Hostel in Jackson Hole often offers the most economical accommodation. Vacation rentals or private rooms in local homes are fantastic deals, particularly during the low season—renting a big house with a group significantly cuts lodging and food costs.
Nora’s Fish Creek Inn provides a hearty breakfast with generous portions to share (consider sitting at the counter for quicker service if you’re a small group). Load up for a hiking day with sandwiches and healthy snacks from Jackson Whole Grocer. You may enjoy finer lunch fare in town; however, you won’t get the same breathtaking views.
Martha’s Vineyard
Martha’s Vineyard is often viewed as a playful retreat for the rich, a vacation spot for presidents and celebrities. Even the name, referring to an island as a vineyard, seems to inflate its exclusivity—yet once you’re there, the reputation feels more myth than reality.
The quickest way to cut spending is to leave the car behind on the mainland. Passenger rates on the Steamship Authority ferries are under $20 roundtrip, while a standard-sized car is over $100 round-trip. This can quickly add to your travel expenses. Plus, dealing with parking and crowded streets in peak season isn’t worth it.
Buses connect the island towns seven days a week, costing only $1.25 from one town to another; a three-day pass for $18 allows unlimited travel during your stay. Even better, consider biking around the island—it’s a leisurely way to explore. Bikes are available for rent, or some inns and hotels provide them free of charge.
