20 Cheapest Places to Travel in the U.S. in 2026

The cheapest places to travel in the U.S. in 2026 include St. Augustine, Florida, San Antonio, Texas, Memphis, Tennessee, Sequoia National Park and Denver, Colorado.

This guide ranks 20 budget-friendly destinations by average meal spend, hotel rates and flight costs so you can plan a trip without draining your paycheck. Each pick comes with places to stay, free things to do, and best time to visit.

Key Takeaways

• San Antonio, Memphis and St. Augustine rank as the top budget U.S. destinations in 2026, scoring highest across hotel rates, flight costs and meal prices — making them strong starting points for a low-cost domestic trip.

• Many of the best free activities require nothing more than comfortable shoes, from strolling San Antonio's River Walk and Savannah's Forsyth Park to hiking trails in Sequoia, Glacier and Grand Teton national parks.

• National park visits stretch the dollar further with the right pass — a $35 vehicle entry covers one park for seven days, while an $80 America the Beautiful annual pass unlocks hundreds of federal recreation sites across the country.

• Traveling in shoulder season — spring (April to May) and fall (September to November) — cuts hotel rates 20% to 30% and reduces crowds at popular destinations like Washington, D.C., Charleston and Denver.

• To fund your trip without tapping rent or bill money, open a separate travel savings account and automate a small transfer each payday so the money is ready when fares drop.

Summary generated by AI, verified by MoneyLion editors

Ranking determinations:

🌟 5: The location is one of the cheapest.

🟢 4: It's cheaper than a typical U.S. destination.

🟡 3: It's a solid value.

🟠 2: It's somewhat expensive as a budget destination.

🔴 1: It's difficult, but possible to make it work on a budget.

1. San Antonio, Texas

Why It's Cheap

Visiting the famous Alamo is free, and it costs nothing to stroll down San Antonio's historic riverwalk. Sample authentic Tex-Mex cuisine and learn more about the local culture, or visit the Japanese Tea Garden — which is also free — for a one-of-a-kind experience.

Average Costs

• Hotel cost score: 4

• Flight cost score: 5

• Average midrange meal score: 5 

Free Things to Do

• Stroll the iconic 15-mile San Antonio River Walk

• Tour The Alamo’s grounds

• Explore the Japanese Tea Gardens.

• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mission San José with ranger-led tours

Where To Stay

You can find vacation rentals in the King William Historic District for reasonable rates near the River Walk, while chain hotels near I-10 can offer even lower pricing. Vacation rentals on the south side are cheapest in the off-season.

Best Time To Visit

Mid-January through early April avoid the summer heat with milder temperatures. Catch pre-Fiesta events before peak spring crowds.

2. Savannah, Georgia

Why It's Cheap

Savannah has free walking tours and seasonal events in Forsyth Park. The Webb Military Museum offers a fascinating perspective on the U.S. military, costing $10 per adult admission, while the Savannah History Museum costs $12 per adult. River Street and City Market present shopping and dining opportunities, or for a slightly more upscale experience, consider a river cruise. 

Average Costs

• Hotel cost score: 3

• Flight cost score: 4

• Average midrange meal score: 5

Free Things To Do

• Visit the iconic fountain in Forsyth Park 

• Stroll the cobblestone River Street

• Ride the Savannah Belles Ferry across the river

• Visit the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist

Where To Stay

Accommodations in the Victorian District or near Forsyth Park are ideal spots to venture out. 

Best Time To Visit

March and April have popular events and festivals and maximum bloom time in the parks and squares. Fall too offers idyllic temperatures to enjoy Savannah’s events without the sweltering heat.

3. Salt Lake City, Utah

Why It's Cheap

Outdoor activities are plentiful in Salt Lake City, including hiking, kayaking and biking. Take a boat tour or swing into town to visit one of the area's many free museums. The city’s also got many affordable eateries that won't break the bank if you plan ahead.

Average Cost

• Hotel cost score: 3

• Flight cost score: 4

• Average midrange meal score: 5

Free Things To Do

• Explore the gardens, tabernacle and family history center at Temple Square

• Hike Ensign Peak for panoramic city and mountain views

• Stroll the trails of Liberty Park

• Visit the Utah State Capitol

Where To Stay

Vacation rentals in the Avenues neighborhood or near Capitol Hill are a convenient base camp, while chain hotels along I-15 have plenty of budget options.

Best Time To Visit

September to February offer the best climate for outdoor activities such as hiking or festivals. The main draw is winter with the varying snow sports.

4. Memphis, Tennessee

Why It's Cheap

You can get free admission to Mud Island River Park. Many bars and clubs don't require a cover charge, so you can enjoy the local music scene affordably. The money you save can help you with admission to Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley. The cheapest ticket is $85 per adult.

Average Costs

• Hotel cost score: 5

• Flight cost score: 4

• Average midrange meal score: 5

Free Things To Do

• Hike the Old Forest Trail at Overton Park

• Visit the Crystal Shrine Grotto at Memorial Park

• Stroll Beale Street to see neon signs

• Visit the Dixon Gallery and Gardens

Where To Stay

East Memphis vacation rentals dip lower during off-season while Cooper-Young and Midtown both keep you close to the music scene.

Best Time To Visit

April to May and October to November bring pleasant weather and lower tourist count to enjoy the city.

5. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Why It's Cheap

Oklahoma City has affordable attractions such as Myriad Botanical Gardens, costing $10.50 for adult admission, the American Banjo Museum, which is between $6 to $8. and the First Americans Museum, about $20 per adult. Accommodations are plentiful, as are affordable places to eat and shop.

Average Costs

• Hotel cost score: 5

• Flight cost score: 4

• Average midrange meal score: 5

Free Things To Do

• Explore Bricktown’s canal district

• Wander the 70-acre Scissortail Park

• Visit the Centennial Land Run Monument

• Walk the outdoor areas of Myriad Botanical Gardens

• Experience the Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center

Where To Stay

Vacation rentals in the Paseo Arts District or near Bricktown offer rates on the higher side. Hotel chains near the airport and I-35 are similarly expensive. South OKC has more budget friendly vacation rentals in the off-season. 

Best Time To Visit

Mid-February through early May is the sweet spot with milder weather and also avoids tornado season. 

6. St. Augustine, Florida 

Why It's Cheap

With 40 miles of scenic coastline, St. Augustine provides outdoor activities as well as shoreline attractions like the Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, costing $17.95 per adult. Families can visit the Alligator Farm Zoological Park, costing $36.99 per adult, one of the city’s interactive museums, Anastasia State Park, costing $8 per vehicle, up to eight people, or other nature preserves. 

Average Costs

• Hotel cost score: 4

• Flight cost score: 4

• Average midrange meal score: 5

Free Things To Do

• Walk the cobblestone streets of the historic district

• Visit the Plaza de la Constitución.

• Watch the sunset from the Bridge of Lions.

• Tour the grounds of Flagler College

WhereTo Stay

Look at vacation rentals in Lincolnville or chain hotels near U.S. 1 for reasonable rates. Vacation rentals on the south end of Anastasia Island are a bit more of a grab bag, but it’s possible to get a cheaper stay in the off-season.

Best Time To Visit

Mid-January through early March allow you to skip hurricane season and summer crowds. Hotel rates are considerably lower in January.

7. Kansas City, Missouri

Why It's Cheap

Kansas City boasts a surprising number of free and affordable attractions, including Boulevard Brewing Company, about $11 on weekdays. Barbecue enthusiasts may enjoy the city's famous restaurant scene, and you can tour downtown for free from the KC Streetcar.

Average Costs

• Hotel cost score: 4

• Flight cost score: 4

• Average midrange meal score: 4

Free Things To Do

• Tour the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

• Ride a Kansas City streetcar

• Browse the City Market

• Enjoy Loose Park and the rose garden

Where To Stay

Hotels or vacation rentals in the Westport or the Crossroads neighborhoods offer easy access to the arts districts. Hotels near the airport or I-70 provide value while Plaza-area vacation rentals are a great option during off-season. 

Best Time To Visit

March to October is prime time to be outside enjoying festivals and sporting events.

8. Phoenix, Arizona

Why It's Cheap

Phoenix is generally known for its affordable airfare, making it easy to travel to this one-of-a-kind location. On the first Friday of each month, there is a city-wide art walk, and visitors can also enjoy free outdoor activities at Piestewa Peak or the South Mountain Park & Preserve.

Average Costs

• Hotel cost score: 3

• Flight cost score: 4

• Average midrange meal score: 4

Free Things To Do

• Hike Papago Park for the Hole-in-the-Rock overlook

• Stroll Roosevelt Row

• Hike the South Mountain Park trails for Sonoran Desert views

• Visit the Arizona Capitol Museum

Where To Stay

Chain hotels near Sky Harbor typically give you the best budget options. Vacation rentals in Roosevelt Row or Encanto Village put you near central sights for a price.

Best Time To Visit

November through April provide warm temperatures to escape during winter while avoiding the sweltering temperature of Arizona summer.

9. Denver, Colorado

Why It's Cheap

In Denver, you'll find hiking, skiing and plenty of chances to explore the city. The Colorado State Capitol and Denver Mint both offer free admission days, and the Molly Brown House Museum sells admission for $17.63 a person. You can easily tailor accommodations and dining options to your strict budget.

Average Costs

• Hotel cost score: 3

• Flight cost score: 5

• Average midrange meal score: 4

Free Things To Do

• Hike Confluence Park along the South Platte River

• See murals and street art in the city’s alleyways, warehouses, and store fronts

• Visit the Colorado State Capitol

• Explore City Park's lake and skyline panoramas

Where To Stay

Vacation rental locations near Union Station, Capital Hill, or LoDo give you quick access to the city at prices that aren’t eye-watering. Washington Park vacation rentals and hotels have cheaper options.

Best Time To Visit

April to May and September to October offer comfortable temperatures, fewer tourists and lower hotel prices. Tourism in Colorado is strong in the winter — as one would imagine — but it's still possible to find a great ski season deal.

10. Washington, D.C.

Why It's Cheap

Enjoy free admission to world-renowned museums such as the Air and Space Museum and Museum of Natural History. Farther downtown are international dining options and cultural activities for affordable prices. Save on parking by leaving your car outside the city and relying on the area's many forms of public transportation.

Average Costs

• Hotel cost score: 2

• Flight cost score: 5

• Average midrange meal score: 2

Free Things To Do

• Visit the National Museum of Natural History

• Explore the National Air and Space Museum

• Stroll the National Mall from the U.S. Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial

• Tour the National Archives

• Explore the Library of Congress

Where To Stay

Dupont Circle or Capitol Hill are both prime locations near transit or sights. Anacostia vacation rentals tick lower during the off-season — obviously. Chain hotels near Metro lines or the I-95 corridor give you some great budget choices while also helping you to avoid public parking.

Best Time To Visit

Mid-March and April let you see the best of cherry blossom season — before the temperatures go up and summer crowds take over. September to November is mild with sunny days and maximum fall foliage.

11. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Why It's Cheap

Visit attractions such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art for $30 per adult, or swing downtown to sample one of the city's famous cheesesteaks. For $12.50 a person, get a one-day pass for transportation to save money when navigating the city.

Average Costs

• Hotel cost score: 3

• Flight cost score: 5

• Average midrange meal score: 3

Free Things To Do

• Climb the “Rocky” steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art

• Experience the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Independence Hall

• Take a picture with the Love statue in the John F. Kennedy Plaza

• Stroll down historic Elfreth’s Alley

• See the Liberty Bell

Where To Stay

Vacation rentals in Society Hill or Fairmount are located near Old City sights. South Philly vacation rentals offer cheaper rates off-season. 

Best Time To Visit

April to May and September and November usually bring the best weather for traversing the city. Winter is best for budget vacations with markets and skating rinks in various city plazas.

12. New Orleans, Louisiana

Why It's Cheap

New Orleans visitors can enjoy a blend of cultures in the historic French Quarter on the cheap. Sample local dishes or the local jazz scene. With proximity to the Mississippi River, youll find riverboat excursions and local wildlife parks, all of which are perfectly reasonable, if not free.

Average Costs

• Hotel cost score: 3

• Flight cost score: 5

• Average midrange meal score: 1

Free Things To Do

• Stroll the French Quarter's historic streets to enjoy architecture and street performers around Jackson Square

• Walk the Garden District to see antebellum mansions and Spanish moss draped live oaks

• Listen to live jazz on Frenchmen Street

• Explore the Besthoff Sculpture Garden in City Park

Where To Stay

Vacation rentals in Marigny or Faubourg Marigny tend to be money-savers. And chain hotels near I-10 give you easy access to the city at similar prices. Vacation rentals are always a good option in Bywater, as long as it’s the off-season.

Best Time To Visit

Mid-February through early April—think post-Mardi Gras peak, but pre-summer humidity. The hotel rates reflect the shoulder season. Comfortable 65 to 80-degree weather — and little threat of hurricanes — are great for outdoor activities like Jazz Fest warmups.

13. San Diego, California

Why It's Cheap

Tickets to San Diego Zoo are usually around $78 per adult. Not exactly cheap, but world-class. The city has many affordable attractions, including the urban Balboa Park with gardens and museums sprinkled all over. You can also swim and sunbathe at Mission Beach. Your food requires some planning — it's middle-of-the-road when it comes to value, but you can find local dives that fit any budget.

Average Costs

• Hotel cost score: 2

• Flight cost score: 3

• Average midrange meal score: 3

Free Things To Do

• Relax while watching seals and sea lions at La Jolla Cove

• Hike Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

• Stroll Balboa Park to see one of the world’s largest outdoor pipe organs

• Visit the Timken Museum

• Explore Embarcadero's ships

Where To Stay

Mission Bay vacation rentals give you top-tier off-season pricing, while rentals in Hillcrest or North Park are located near parks and restaurants. There's also chain hotel options near the airport that can be a steal.

Best Time To Visit

March to May and September to November deliver milder weather and avoids the rainy season. The average hotel price is also cheaper.

14. Charleston, South Carolina

Why It's Cheap

Take advantage of free tours, including the self-guided tour of Fort Sumter. Visit The Gibbes Museum — an art museum with a $15 per adult admission fee — or stroll through the Charleston City Market. Flights tend to be cheap, as it's served by airlines like Sun Country, Allegiant and Southwest.

Average Costs

• Hotel cost score: 2

• Flight cost score: 5

• Average midrange meal score: 1

Free Things To Do

• Stroll the historic district lined cobblestone streets, including Rainbow Row’s pastel homes and The Battery's antebellum mansions

• Relax at Waterfront Park with Pineapple Fountain and harbor views

• Browse the open-air Charleston City Market

• Walk the Ravenel Bridge for city and ocean views

Where To Stay

Vacation rentals in the French Quarter or Ansonborough and near key sites offer convenience for a price. Budget options include chain hotels near U.S. 17 or off-season vacation rentals.

Best Time To Visit

Arrive in April or May to avoid the summer humidity and enjoy seriously ideal temperatures. Mid-October through November also presents some pleasantly cooler temperatures and fall foliage.

15. Cannon Beach, Oregon

Why It's Cheap

If you're a nature lover, you’ll love the scenic coast on Cannon Beach — as well as hiking destinations in one of the nearby state parks. You can venture into town for self-guided walking tours, or visit the Cannon Beach History Center and Museum for free.

Average Costs

• Hotel cost score: 2

• Flight cost score: 2

• Average midrange meal score: 4

Free Things to Do

• Walk the beach to Haystack Rock

• Stroll Hemlock Street’s window galleries and public art

• Hike Ecola State Park trails for clifftop ocean vistas

• Explore Hug Point State Recreation Site's sea caves and waterfalls

Where To Stay

Book downtown vacation rentals for quick access to the beach (it may be slightly expensive). You’ll find similar prices near Tolovana Park and chain hotels along Highway 101. As always, vacation rentals in the off season are notably cheaper.

Best Time To Visit

Mid-February through early May will help you to avoid summer crowds and the rainy season—though rain is a certainty in Oregon. Cool 50 to 65-degree days are good for whale watching and hikes before tourist season swells.

16. Great Basin National Park

Why It's Cheap

At Great Basin National Park, you'll find no entrance fee and numerous hiking trails for all ability levels. Visitors can also tour Lehman Caves. You'll find both developed and primitive camping options within the campground.

Average Costs

• Hotel cost score: 3

• Flight cost score: 1

• Average midrange meal score: 4

Free Things To Do

• Drive the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive

• Stop to view the bristlecone pine groves

• Hike the Alpine Lakes Loop

• Explore the Baker Archaeological Site

Where To Stay

Campgrounds located in the park are a cheap alternative to other accommodations. Nearby Baker provides a variety of motels, vacation rentals, and B&Bs to fit your budget.

Best Time To Visit

Late June through September offer the most reliable window for full access to the park's roads and hiking trails. Early fall is best for fewer people and cooler temperatures, though snow can arrive early in the higher elevations.

17. Olympic National Park 

Why It's Cheap

With a $55 annual pass or $30 single day pass, visitors can traverse the Hoh or Quinault rain forests as well as enjoy Rialto or Ruby Beach at Olympic National Park. Sol Duc Falls features a multi-layered waterfall, and guests can enjoy the truly stunning campgrounds and save on accommodation all the while. 

Average Costs

• Hotel cost score: 3

• Flight cost score: 2

• Average midrange meal score: 3

Free Things To Do (After $30 Entry Fee)

• View the scenic surroundings at Hurricane Ridge

• Hike the Marymere Falls trail

• Walk the Hall of Mosses trail

• Do a day hike to Rialto Beach to see the “Hole in the Wall”

Where To Stay

There are several lodges located within the park, while nearby campgrounds are rock-bottom prices. Larger towns outside the park in Port Angeles or Forks have a wide variety of accommodations—from luxe to affordable.

Best Time to Visit

March to October offer the best conditions for hiking, though June through September are the most crowded.

18. Sequoia National Park

Why It's Cheap

Sequoia National Park is the epitome of scenic — there’s no end to its photographic opportunities, which are free if you've got a smartphone. Choose from multiple hiking trails or tour the Crystal Cave. In the winter, you can also opt for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Get an annual pass for $70.

Average Costs

• Hotel cost score: 2

• Flight cost score: 2

• Average midrange meal score: 3

Free Things To Do (After $35 Entry Fee)

• Hike the Congress Trail to see the General Sherman Tree and other large sequoias

• Climb Moro Rock to see panoramic views of the park

• Drive Crescent Meadow Loop through the Tunnel Log

Where To Stay

Conveniently, there are four lodges within the park — and one is open year-round. The many different campgrounds in the park are highly affordable, but there are also vacation rentals and hotels in nearby Three Rivers and Visalia offer more selection.

Best Time To Visit

Late May to early September give you the most surefire success in terms of trails and park roads to all be open.

19. Glacier National Park

Why It's Cheap

Glacier National Park features scenic drives and multiple hiking trails. Lake MacDonald has kayaking and swimming, and you can go rafting on the middle fork of the Flathead River. If you’re not into camping, Glacier comes with comfortable lodging just inside the entrance. The entry cost per vehicle is $35.

Average Costs

• Hotel cost score: 2

• Flight cost score: 2

• Average midrange meal score: 2

Free Things To Do (After $35 Entry Fee)

• Drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road

• Hike the Trail of the Cedars

• Enjoy the views of Lake Mcdonald

• Walk the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail

Where To Stay

The park has several lodges and hotels to suit various tastes. A whopping 13 different campgrounds give you plenty of affordable options. Columbia Falls, Coram or West Glacier have vacation rentals and motels near the West Entrance.

Best Time To Visit

June through September is the best time to visit to ensure lodging options, trails and park roads are open during optimal weather conditions.

20. Grand Teton National Park

Why It's Cheap

For a $35 admission fee, Grand Teton National Park’s 42-mile scenic loop has breathtaking views. You'll find hiking, boating, and fishing within the park proper, and ranger-led programs give you an in-depth look at the park.

Average Costs

• Hotel cost score: 2

• Flight cost score: 2

• Average midrange meal score: 1

Free Things To Do (After $35 Park Entry)

• View Schwabacher Landing’s mirrored reflections of the Tetons

• Drive the 3-mile scenic loop around Jenny Lake

• Hike the shorts trails at Taggart Lake or Moose Ponds Loop

Where To Stay

Lodges are available within the park limits, though they’re only open during peak season and the pricing can be steep. Otherwise, the nearby towns of Teton Village or Jackson have plenty of vacation rentals and chain hotels for affordability.

Best Time To Visit

Summer and fall are popular times to visit—but the biggest crowds will be in the summer. Try for fall to skirt the masses and the more extreme weather.

Discover how MoneyLion’s network of partners can help can you help you save for your dream vacation:

How To Budget for a Cheap U.S. Trip on a Stretched Paycheck

A cheap destination only works if your spending plan does too. Try these moves before you book.

• Set a trip number first: Add up flights, lodging, food and one daily activity, then pad it by 15% for surprises.

• Use the 50/30/20 budget: Pull travel savings from your 30% wants bucket so you don't touch rent or debt payments.

• Open a separate travel fund: Move a small amount each payday into a high-yield savings account so the money is ready when fares drop.

• Track every swipe on the trip: A budgeting app helps you spot if you're three days in and already past your food budget.

• Skip the rental car when you can: Walkable cities like St. Augustine, Savannah and San Antonio cut $50 to $80 a day in car and parking costs.

If your paycheck is stretched thin between trips, MoneyLion's tools can help you build a cushion, track spending and access cash before payday so a vacation doesn't push you into debt.

FAQs 

What is the cheapest month to travel in the U.S.?

January and February are the cheapest months to travel in the U.S. Hotel rates drop 20% to 30% after the holidays, and round-trip airfare averages roughly $260 — about 15% below the yearly average, according to the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics 2025 data. Avoid Presidents Day weekend for the lowest rates.

What is the cheapest U.S. city to fly into?

Las Vegas (LAS), Orlando (MCO) and Nashville (BNA) rank as the cheapest U.S. cities to fly into, with average round-trip domestic fares between $180 and $240, per the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics Q2 2025 Air Fare Report. Budget carriers like Spirit and Frontier drive prices down at all three hubs.

How much does a week-long U.S. vacation cost?

A week-long U.S. vacation costs $1,200 to $2,000 per person on a budget itinerary, per AAA 2025 travel data. That covers a $250 round-trip flight, $110-per-night lodging for six nights, $50 a day for food and $20 a day for activities. Driving instead of flying can cut the total by $200 to $400.

How can you save money while traveling in the U.S.?

Book flights six to eight weeks out, travel midweek and stay in cities where you can walk or use public transit. Cook one meal a day at your rental, use free walking tours and check for resident discounts at museums. These moves can cut a trip's cost by 20% to 30%, per AARP 2025 travel data.

What are the cheapest states to visit?

Tennessee, Texas, New Mexico, South Dakota and Arkansas rank as the cheapest states to visit, with average daily spends under $120 per person, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics 2025 Consumer Expenditure Survey. Lower hotel taxes, cheaper gas and inexpensive regional food keep total trip costs well below the national average.

What is the vacation capital of the U.S.?

Orlando is popularly regarded as America's vacation capital. Just be prepared to pay for theme parks such as Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld.

What's the least expensive way to travel in the USA?

Bus travel can be surprisingly affordable. Popular bus lines offer discounted rates and have extensive routes across the country.

Key Terms

• Shoulder season: The travel window between peak and off-peak periods — typically spring and fall — when hotel rates and airfare cost less and crowds are smaller.

• America the Beautiful Pass: An annual federal recreation pass priced at $80 for U.S. residents that covers entrance fees at national parks and hundreds of other federal lands managed by agencies including the National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service.

• No-fee national park: A National Park Service site that charges no entrance fee, such as Great Basin National Park — where entry is free, though some activities like Lehman Caves tours carry a per-person fee.

  Low-cost carrier: An airline that offers lower base fares by charging separately for add-ons such as checked bags and seat selection. Carriers like Spirit, Frontier, Allegiant and Southwest serve many destinations in this guide.

• High-yield savings account: A federally insured deposit account that earns a higher annual percentage yield (APY) than a standard savings account, making it a practical tool for building a dedicated travel fund.

• 50/30/20 budget: A personal finance framework that allocates 50% of take-home pay to needs, 30% to wants (including travel) and 20% to savings or debt repayment.

• Per diem: A set daily spending amount used to estimate and manage travel costs across categories like food, transportation and lodging.

Sources:

• National Park Service: America the Beautiful — The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass

• National Park Service: Fees & Passes — Great Basin National Park

• National Park Service: Mission San José

• U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics: Airline Origin and Destination Survey (Air Fare Data)

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Consumer Expenditure Survey

Summary generated by AI, verified by MoneyLion editors

MoneyLion ranked these 20 destinations by using a simple 1 to 5 scale to compare how budget-friendly each one is. We used Numbeo to examine the average cost of living in each area, as well as the amount of free activities available. We also compared flight costs based on factors such as whether it's served by low-cost carriers and the amount of airports that serve the location.