Cheap Vacation Ideas to Help You Get Away Without Breaking the Bank

If you want to go on vacation but are worried about the cost, don’t worry. There are plenty of ways to enjoy a getaway without breaking the bank. With a little bit of planning, you can have a fantastic time while keeping your expenses in check. Here are 20 of the cheapest vacation ideas to help you get started:

1. Go short

Instead of taking a week-long vacation, consider going for a long weekend. This can save you a considerable amount of money on lodging and other expenses.

2. Road trip

If you’re driving, you can stop along the way to see attractions or landmarks, which can make your trip more enjoyable. Plus, often driving is cheaper than airfare and rental cars.

3. Travel with friends

Group rates are available for many things like hotels, rental cars, and tours of museums and other attractions. You’ll save even more when you split the bill with your travel companions.

4. Day trip it

You don’t have to go far to have fun. Stay home and take a different trip each day. Look into destinations that are two or three hours away from where you live and plan a visit.

5. Cook in

Save money on meals by going to a local grocery store and purchasing groceries. Staying at a hotel or vacation rental with a kitchenette can help you cook your meals.

6. Mind your perks

Find out if you can use any of your credit card or store card perks towards your vacation. You may have a free night’s stay, miles for a flight, or even a free meal or two while you’re out.

7. Rent it

If you’re not sure you’ll use something more than once, renting it can be a great way to save money. You can rent an RV instead of paying for hotels and flights, rent a luggage carrier instead of buying a new one, and rent bikes when you get to your destination.

8. Volunteer

Volunteering at a vacation location can provide perks and save money. You can help build homes, teach classes or do other things in exchange for your time.

9. Room ideas

Choosing a small motel with basic amenities instead of a luxurious resort helps you save money. On the other hand, if you want a big resort-style vacation with spa and water park – choose a large, all-inclusive resort to which you can drive.

10. Geocache

Geocaching is a real-world, outdoor treasure hunting game. You can explore nearby areas without spending extra money on travel.

11. Check out a National Park

National Parks have nominal day use fees, some allow camping, and there are several free days throughout the year.

12. See a game

Most cities and towns have minor or major league teams for soccer, baseball, football or basketball. You can take a day and head to a game.

13. Camp

Camping is a fun and exciting way to see areas you have never visited before. You can either rent a small cabin or bring a tent or an RV.

14. Book a last-minute cruise

Expedia is a great source to find last-minute cruise deals. You can pick a sweet deal if you can wait until the last minute to pack and make your plans.

15. Visit local tourist spots

Search for local attractions you never visit because you live there. Your local microbrewery, vineyard or amusement park could be great places to explore.

16. Go somewhere completely different

Choose a destination that’s a little less popular than the usual vacation spots. You’re likely to save big bucks, and Europe is travel-friendly hence you can travel easily to the places you want to see without having to stay there.

17. Do something new

Take the opportunity to try something you’ve never done before. For instance, you can take sailing lessons, learn how to throw pots, or sing karaoke at your local bar.

18. Go to local festivals

Go to your state fair, the local Bluegrass festival or the Garlic Festival (or whatever plant or item your state is known for).

19. Be quiet

You can stay in and relax for an entire week. Sleep, eat junk food, or watch TV if you feel like it. The downtime might be all you need to feel refreshed without costing you much.

20. Housesit

Find a housesitting gig for a week or three months, and you’ll have a great place to stay and save some money in the process.

Conclusion

Planning a vacation doesn’t have to be a costly affair. You can still hit the road and enjoy some sights, sounds, and relaxation without spending a fortune. These 20 cheap vacation ideas can help you get away while keeping your expenses low.