If you’re looking to visit the United States without spending a fortune, it’s definitely possible. With some planning and knowing how to save on accommodation, food, transportation, and activities, you can explore the U.S. on a budget. Here’s how to make your trip affordable while still enjoying everything the country has to offer.
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Accommodation
Hostels and Budget Hotels
When it comes to staying in the U.S., hostels are a great option for solo travelers or anyone looking to save money. While not as common as in Europe, you can find hostels in most major cities. Prices tend to range from $20 to $50 per night for a dorm room. Check Hostelworld or Booking.com for good deals.
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If hostels aren’t your thing, budget hotels and motels are plentiful. Chains like Motel 6 and Super 8 typically offer rooms starting around $50 to $80 per night. While basic, they are clean and comfortable, making them great for travelers who just need a place to sleep.
Airbnb and Couchsurfing
Another good option is Airbnb, which allows you to rent private rooms, apartments, or even whole houses. You can often find deals for as low as $40 per night, especially if you book in advance or stay outside the city center.
If you’re really looking to save, Couchsurfing is your best bet. You stay with hosts for free in exchange for good company and cultural exchange. It’s a great way to meet locals and get insider tips on the area, but book early because popular cities fill up fast.
Campgrounds
If you’re into nature, consider camping. National and state parks across the U.S. offer campgrounds, usually for $15 to $30 per night. Some parks even offer free dispersed camping areas. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank.
Be sure to pack a tent and some basic camping gear, and you can save significantly on accommodation during your stay, especially if you’re doing a road trip.
Food
Cook Your Own Meals
One of the easiest ways to save money on food is to cook your own meals. Grocery stores are everywhere, and most hostels and Airbnb rentals have kitchens you can use. Buy groceries, and you’ll spend far less than eating out for every meal.
Focus on simple, cheap meals like pasta, sandwiches, and salads. Markets like Walmart, Trader Joe’s, and Aldi are good for budget buys.
Eat Like a Local
If you’re eating out, skip the touristy areas and seek out where the locals go. Diner chains like Denny’s or IHOP offer reasonable prices, with meals typically costing $10-$15. You can also find lunch specials at local eateries for under $10.
Another budget option is street food. Food trucks and local stalls can be found in most cities and are great for affordable, delicious meals. Don’t miss out on food trucks in places like Portland or Austin, where meals can be as cheap as $8.
Take Advantage of Free Hotel Breakfasts
If you’re staying at a budget hotel or hostel, make sure to take full advantage of any free breakfast they offer. Fill up, and you can skip lunch or just have a light snack during the day, helping to stretch your food budget further.
Transportation
Public Transport
In big cities like New York, San Francisco, and Chicago, public transportation is affordable and easy to use. A subway or bus pass can cost you $5 to $10 for an unlimited day pass, which is a bargain compared to taxis or ride-sharing services.
If you’re traveling between cities, booking long-distance buses through companies like Megabus or Greyhound is one of the cheapest ways to get around. Fares as low as $1 can be found if you book in advance.
Ridesharing
If you’re road-tripping or visiting places where buses don’t go, consider ridesharing. Apps like BlaBlaCar let you find carpool rides with locals, usually for much less than flying or renting a car. Another option is signing up for flexible car-sharing services like Zipcar if you only need a car for a few hours or a day.
Domestic Flights
For long-distance travel, domestic flights are sometimes necessary. Use search engines like Skyscanner or Google Flights to compare prices and set up fare alerts. U.S. budget airlines like Spirit, Frontier, and Southwest often have deals starting as low as $50, especially for flights between popular hubs.
Just keep an eye on extra fees for luggage and pick the basic fares if you want to save!
Attractions and Activities
National Parks
If you’re into nature, the U.S. has an amazing range of national parks, from Yosemite to the Grand Canyon, where entry fees are relatively low (around $20-$35 per vehicle). If you plan to visit multiple parks, buy an “America the Beautiful” pass for $80. It gets you into all national parks, monuments, and forests for a full year.
Free Museums and Events
Many cities in the U.S. have free museums or offer certain days where entry is free. In Washington D.C., all the Smithsonian museums are completely free every day. Other cities have free festivals or events throughout the year that are worth checking out.
In cities like Los Angeles and Las Vegas, you can also take advantage of free walking tours that give fascinating insights into the area at no cost, though tips are appreciated.
Outdoor Activities
The best things in life are free, and that includes the great outdoors. In addition to the national parks, most cities have fantastic parks, beaches, and hiking trails that don’t cost a thing. Hike through Red Rock Canyon in Nevada, take a walk along Chicago’s Lakefront Trail, or enjoy a day on the beach in Miami—all for free.
Budget-Friendly Destinations
Austin, Texas
Austin is a great spot for budget travelers looking for fun vibes and live music. You can enjoy free live shows, food truck meals, and explore parks and lakes without spending much. Accommodation, especially in hostels or Airbnbs, is also affordable compared to other cities.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans can be done on a budget. Street food like po’ boys and gumbo is affordable and delicious. Walk around the French Quarter, where there’s plenty to see without opening your wallet. You can also find cheap hostels and budget hotels with ease.
Las Vegas, Nevada
While Vegas may seem expensive, you can actually have a great time here for little money. Many casinos offer free drinks while you play, and wandering along the Strip doesn’t cost a thing. Plus, many shows and attractions have discount tickets you can buy last minute.
Portland, Oregon
Portland has a reputation for being hipster, but it’s also one of the more affordable cities to explore. The city’s parks, food trucks, and alternative culture are budget-friendly. Public transport is cheap and easy to use, allowing you to explore without needing a pricey rental car.
Travel Tips for a Budget Trip
Use Travel Rewards Points
If you have a travel credit card, this is the time to use your points. Many airline and hotel loyalty programs allow you to rack up points and redeem them for free or discounted fares, rooms, or even experiences. It might be worth signing up for some loyalty programs before your trip to start saving for future travels too.
Visit During the Off-Season
Traveling to the U.S. during the off-season can help you save big on flights and accommodations. For example, visiting places like Florida or California in the fall or spring usually costs less than in summer. Plus, you’ll avoid the crowds and have a more relaxed trip.
Take Free Walking Tours
Many cities in the U.S. offer free walking tours. They’re typically led by locals who work for tips, and it’s a fantastic way to learn about a city’s history without paying for an overpriced tour. Check out sites like Free Tours by Foot for options in cities like New York, San Francisco, and Boston.
Traveling around the U.S. on a budget is absolutely possible. Be smart about where you stay, what you eat, and how you get around, and you’ll have a fantastic trip without emptying your wallet. Stick to the places and activities you truly want to experience, and you’ll find that you can visit this vast and diverse country without breaking the bank.
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