5 Best Places To Travel on a $1,500 Budget
Traveling on a $1,500 budget might sound limiting, but it can open the door to many memorable trips. The goal is picking destinations where your money goes farther. That could mean visiting during off-peak seasons or opting for destinations where free activities are part of the experience.
Whether you prefer domestic or international destinations, here are the five best places where $1,500 can cover flights, lodging, food and experiences, according to travel experts.
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North Conway, New Hampshire
If you’re based in the northeastern United States, you can save money on airfare by driving. North Conway offers that advantage, along with various budget-friendly accommodations and free outdoor activities.
Chris Proulx, executive director at the Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce, recommends staying midweek to reduce the cost further. “It’s just $119 a night for midweek in April. You get all the amenities of the larger Eastern Slope Inn resort, including a hot tub, indoor pool, hiking trails and more.”
Daily costs are also low since you can do most activities for free. You can hike through the White Mountain National Forest or bike along paved trails at Cranmore Mountain. Dining doesn’t have to break the bank either. “A family of four can get dinner -- four grilled cheese dinners -- for $40,” Proulx says. “Watch for nightly happy hour deals, too.”
Proulx recommends visiting North Conway during spring to save money on nearly everything and avoid crowds.
Colorado
Colorado is another budget destination, especially when you avoid high-end ski towns. Hassan Norani, founder of Brew High Transport, recommends smaller towns like Salida or Buena Vista.
“You're looking at $100 to $120 per night, incredible mountain access and none of the Aspen price tag,” he said. “That leaves plenty for rafting, hot springs, good food and gas. All of the best stuff, the hiking, the scenery, and it is completely free.”
Flights into Denver are often affordable, usually ranging from $200 to $350 round trip. Timing also matters.
According to Norani, “Go in September. Aspen trees are turning gold, crowds thin out and lodging drops noticeably. It's honestly the best time to be there, and your money stretches the furthest.”
Montreal, Canada
If you want an international experience on a budget, consider Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Tracy Lamourie, founder of Lamourie Media, describes the city as “a little bit of Europe and North America.”
Flights can range from $200 to $500 if you're coming from the northeastern U.S. or from within Canada, and “there's train travel from places like Toronto or from New York that can be pretty cost-effective if you book early.”
Accommodations can be way more affordable during shoulder season, like late April to early June or from September to October.
“You can find boutique hotels, Airbnbs and short-term rentals in the range of $100 to $180 per night, which lets you stay four, five or even six nights," Lamourie said.
Montreal also offers one of the best dining experiences and value for your money. With many cafes, bakeries and bistros, “it's really easy to keep your daily food cost around $30 to $60 and eat really well.”
What really makes Montreal stand out is how much you can do for free or at a low cost. You can walk around historic neighborhoods, visit public art places, attend ongoing festivals and enjoy waterfront views, all without spending money.
Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo may not come to mind as an affordable travel destination -- especially with a $1,500 budget. However, Dana Yao, co-founder of Dana Yao Media, said, "Tokyo during off-season and shoulder season is one of the most affordable destinations to visit! A round-trip economy flight costs around $700 or less, especially during [the] early months of the year."
Once you arrive, costs stay manageable if you plan carefully. Opt for capsule hotels or book a room at 24-hour internet cafes, which costs roughly $40 to $80 a night. Meals can also be affordable if you stick to local stores and convenience stores. “At the low end, one meal will cost approximately $10, which will be around $210 for a week,” Yao said.
You can also spend $50 a week on transportation if you make your itinerary budget-friendly.
“When traveling around Tokyo, buy the Metro Pass, which will give you unlimited rides for 24, 48 or 72 hours. This will save tons of money while allowing you to explore the city as you wish!”
Even better, Tokyo has free activities and attractions for tourists to enjoy.
“If this part of the itinerary is planned well, you can spend $0 while enjoying great views of the Tokyo skyline and free shows,” Yao said. “These include the Asakusa Tourist Center, the Tokyo Metropolitan Building, watching a Toyosu tuna auction and seeing Sensoji Temple.”
Pensacola, Florida
If you’re looking for a beach destination on a $1,500 budget, Steve Schwab, CEO of Casago, recommends Pensacola, Florida.
“There are free public beaches, great restaurants of varying price ranges, vacation rentals and hotels of varying price ranges," he said. "Basically, you can make a trip there that costs as little as you want.”
Schwab suggests visiting in the early fall due to the great weather and the fact that “tourism declines as the summer break ends.” This allows you to stretch your budget even further.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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