How to travel cheaply in the US without breaking a bank
Travelling can be a great way to experience new places, meet new people, and gain valuable experiences. However, it can also be expensive, particularly if you travel in the US. With airfare, accommodation, and transportation costs, it can be challenging to stick to a budget. But it doesn’t have to be that way! Here are some tips on how to travel cheaply in the US.
Plan your trip to travel cheaply in the US
The earlier you start planning your trip, the better. This gives you time to research and compare different options for accommodation, transportation, and activities. Additionally, booking in advance often means securing lower flights, hotels, and attractions prices.
Use budget airlines
Budget airlines such as Spirit, Frontier, and JetBlue offer affordable flights within the US. However, it’s important to note that they often charge extra for things like checked luggage and seat selection. To get the best deal, book your flight early and only bring a carry-on bag to avoid additional fees.
Consider alternative airports
When searching for flights, consider alternative airports that may be less busy or closer to your final destination. For example, if you’re travelling to New York City, consider flying into Newark, NJ or Westchester County, NY instead of the busy JFK or LaGuardia airports.
Take a bus or train
If you’re not in a rush, consider taking a bus or train instead of flying. Companies like Greyhound and Amtrak offer affordable options for travelling long distances within the US. While it may take longer than flying, you’ll have the opportunity to see more of the country.
Stay in budget
When it comes to accommodations, there are plenty of budget options available. Hostels, Airbnb, and budget hotel chains like Motel 6 and Super 8 offer affordable options for travellers. Additionally, consider staying outside popular tourist areas, as prices tend to be lower the further away you are from the main attractions.
Cook your own meals
Eating out can quickly add up, especially if you’re travelling for an extended period. To save money, consider cooking your own meals. Book accommodation with a kitchenette or look for Airbnb listings that allow you to use the kitchen. This way, you can buy groceries and prepare your own meals, which can save you a significant amount of money.
Use public transportation
Instead of renting a car or taking taxis, consider using public transportation. Most cities in the US have reliable and affordable public transportation options such as buses, subways, and light rails. Additionally, many cities have bike-sharing programs, which can be a fun and healthy way to explore the city.
Look for free activities
There are plenty of free activities and attractions in the US, so take advantage of them! Parks, museums, and historic sites offer free admission, and many cities offer free walking tours. Check local event listings for free concerts, festivals, and other events.
Use travel rewards programs.
Consider signing up for travel rewards programs if you’re a frequent traveller. Airlines, hotels, and credit card companies often offer rewards programs that allow you to earn points or miles that can be redeemed for free flights, hotel stays, and other travel-related expenses.
Road trip through several free attractions cities in the US
A road trip through several free attraction cities in the US can be a great way to explore the country without breaking the bank. Here are some towns with free attractions that you may want to consider:
Washington D.C. – The nation’s capital has many free attractions, including the National Mall, Smithsonian Museums, and the National Zoo.
Boston – In Boston, you can walk the Freedom Trail, visit the USS Constitution Museum, and explore the Harvard Art Museums, all for free.
Philadelphia – Philadelphia is home to many historic sites, such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, which are free to visit.
New Orleans – While the city may be known for its food and music, there are plenty of free attractions, such as the French Quarter and the Garden District.
San Francisco – San Francisco offers many free attractions, such as the Golden Gate Park, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Cable Car Museum.
Seattle – In Seattle, you can explore Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, and the Olympic Sculpture Park, all for free.
Chicago – Chicago has many free attractions, such as Millennium Park, the Lincoln Park Zoo, and the Art Institute of Chicago.
These are just a few cities with free attractions you can visit on a road trip through the US. Remember to plan and research the attractions you want to visit to ensure they are open and accessible.
Travel off-season
Travelling during peak season can be expensive, as prices tend to be higher and crowds tend to be larger. To save money, consider travelling during the off-season or shoulder season. Not only will you save money on flights and accommodations, but you’ll also avoid crowds.
In conclusion, travelling in the US doesn’t have to be expensive. With a bit of planning and some budget-friendly options, you can have a great trip without breaking the bank.
