Whether you’re looking for vibrant city life, outdoor adventures, or beachside relaxation, here are seven of the cheap places to travel in the USA when you’re young and broke.
Traveling doesn’t have to break the bank, especially when you’re young and just starting out. The U.S. has plenty of budget-friendly destinations where you can explore, eat well, and have an unforgettable experience without spending a fortune.
Traveling in your 20s is an adventure. It’s about exploring new places, meeting people, and making memories—all without going broke. The good news? The USA is packed with budget-friendly destinations that let you have a blast without emptying your wallet.
✅ Free French Quarter vibes 🏡
✅ Street performances on Bourbon Street 🎷
✅ $1.25 streetcar rides 🚋
💰 Budget Tip: Skip the pricey bars—BYOB and walk around instead!
The Big Easy is famous for its vibrant nightlife, jazz music, and mouthwatering Creole cuisine—all at surprisingly affordable prices! Enjoy free live music on Frenchmen Street, explore the historic French Quarter, and grab beignets at Café du Monde.
💰 Estimated Costs from New York:
✈️ Flights: From $150 round-trip
🏠 Hostel stay: $30 per night
🍽️ Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $10
🍺 Local beer: $5
☕ Coffee: $3
2️⃣ Austin, Texas – BBQ, Music & Outdoor Fun 🤠🎶
✅ Free live music everywhere 🎸
✅ Delicious, cheap street tacos 🌮
✅ Barton Springs Pool ($5 entrance) 🏊♂️
💰 Budget Tip: Stay in a hostel or crash with a friend!
Austin is a paradise for budget travelers! Enjoy free concerts at Zilker Park, swim in the Barton Springs Pool ($5 entry), and indulge in cheap, delicious BBQ from legendary food trucks.
💰 Estimated Costs from New York:
✈️ Flights: From $180 round-trip
🏠 Hostel stay: $35 per night
🍽️ Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $9
🍺 Local beer: $4
☕ Coffee: $3
3️⃣ Asheville, North Carolina – Mountains & Artsy Vibes 🏞️🎨
✅ Free Blue Ridge Parkway views 🚗
✅ Waterfall hikes with no entry fees 💦
✅ Budget-friendly breweries 🍻
💰 Budget Tip: Pack a tent and camp out for cheap!
If you love nature and artsy towns, Asheville is perfect! Hike the Blue Ridge Mountains for free, visit quirky shops downtown, and check out free live music and street performances.
💰 Estimated Costs from New York:
✈️ Flights: From $160 round-trip
🏠 Hostel stay: $25 per night
🍽️ Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $8
🍺 Local beer: $4
☕ Coffee: $2.50
4️⃣ Denver, Colorado – City Life Meets the Great Outdoors 🏔️🍺
✅ Free hiking & scenic drives 🚙
✅ $5 brewery tours 🍻
✅ Red Rocks Amphitheater (visit for free) 🎶
💰 Budget Tip: Use rental scooters instead of cabs!
Denver gives you the best of both worlds—a cool city vibe + outdoor adventures! Walk around the RiNo Art District, take a free tour of the U.S. Mint, and go hiking in Red Rocks Park (totally free!).
💰 Estimated Costs from New York:
✈️ Flights: From $200 round-trip
🏠 Hostel stay: $35 per night
🍽️ Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $10
🍺 Local beer: $5
☕ Coffee: $3
5️⃣ Savannah, Georgia – Southern Charm on a Budget 🌴🌸
Savannah is like stepping into a storybook—oak-lined streets, historic mansions, and stunning public squares. Walk along River Street, visit Forsyth Park, and explore historic cemeteries—all for free!
💰 Estimated Costs from New York:
✈️ Flights: From $140 round-trip
🏠 Hostel stay: $30 per night
🍽️ Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $8
🍺 Local beer: $4
☕ Coffee: $2.50
6️⃣ San Diego, California – Beaches, Sun & Free Fun ☀️🌊
✅ Free beaches (La Jolla, Pacific Beach) 🏖️
✅ Balboa Park (tons of free attractions) 🌿
✅ Cheap tacos & burritos everywhere 🌯
💰 Budget Tip: Take public transit instead of Ubering everywhere!
San Diego is perfect if you love beaches and outdoor activities. La Jolla Cove, Pacific Beach, and Balboa Park offer stunning views for free, while cheap taco joints keep you full!
💰 Estimated Costs from New York:
✈️ Flights: From $250 round-trip
🏠 Hostel stay: $40 per night
🍽️ Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $9
🍺 Local beer: $5
☕ Coffee: $3
7️⃣ Portland, Oregon – Hipster Heaven with Free Attractions 🌲☕
Portland is known for its quirky culture and natural beauty. Explore Forest Park (one of the largest urban parks in the U.S.), visit Powell’s City of Books, and enjoy cheap food carts downtown!
💰 Estimated Costs from New York:
✈️ Flights: From $220 round-trip
🏠 Hostel stay: $35 per night
🍽️ Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $10
🍺 Local beer: $5
☕ Coffee: $3
Final Thoughts: How to Travel on a Budget
Traveling while you’re young and on a budget is completely doable—you just need to choose the right destinations and be smart with your spending. Here are some final budget travel tips to help you save even more:
Book in Advance & Be Flexible
- Use Google Flights or Skyscanner to compare cheap flights.
- Flying on Tuesdays and Wednesdays is often cheaper than weekends.
- Be flexible with dates to take advantage of discounts.
✨ Travel More, Spend Less!
Being young and broke doesn’t mean you can’t explore! Which destination is calling your name? Drop a 🌎 in the comments if you’re ready for an adventure! 🚀💙
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