Keep Summer Trips Under $1K With These 5 Budget Travel Destinations
Yes, a real summer vacation on $1,000 is still possible, but improbable if you don’t know where to go. Travel times are tough considering Spirit Airlines is gone, fuel prices are up and competition on domestic routes is thinner, but pockets of genuine affordability still exist.
MoneyLion spoke with travel experts to source just which hot spots are worth your money and will come in under budget. So, before you start planning and saving for your summer trip costs, you might want to consider these under-visited gems that can keep you on the path of a $1,000 (or less) budget.
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1. Short Caribbean Cruise From Florida
If you live on the East Coast or in the South, you already know Florida is an affordable travel destination this summer. However, depending on how you go about it, and how much you need to spend on gas or airfare, you could enjoy a lovely beach trip and subsequent cruise for about $1,000.
In fact, Brian Rooney, travel expert and founder of GetCruiseInfo.com, said, “Many travelers overlook cruises when budgeting, but a short Caribbean sailing can actually cost less than a comparable land vacation. Accommodations, meals, entertainment and transportation between destinations are largely included in one purchase. Travelers who select an interior cabin and avoid expensive onboard extras can often stay near the $1,000 mark.”
Below are Rooney’s estimates for the costs you’ll need to cover with an estimated budget of $900 to $1,050:
Cruise fare (4 to 5 nights): $350 to $550
Taxes and port fees: $100 to $150
Gratuities: $60 to $90
Transportation to port: $100 to $200
Onboard spending: $50 to $100
2. San Antonio, Texas
Cities rich with history are great options to squeeze the most out of each day and each dollar.
“If you book flights to arrive in your destination early on the first morning instead of at the end of the day, and fly home late in the afternoon on your last day, you’ve already saved one or two nights’ accommodation," said Nicky Evans, travel editor for the travel app Polarsteps.
You can also aim to reach a city center where you can walk to several destinations without taking a Lyft, Uber or public transportation. That’s where San Antonio enters the chat.
“San Antonio offers a surprising amount of value. The River Walk, historic missions and walkable downtown allow travelers to enjoy the city without spending heavily on attractions. Many of the area's most popular experiences are either inexpensive or free,” Rooney said.
Using Rooney’s estimated budget of about $800 to $1,000, here are some costs to consider:
Airfare: $200 to $350
Hotel (3 nights): $300 to $400
Meals: $125 to $175
Attractions: $75 to $100
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3. New Orleans
New Orleans, with its spooky ghost stories and aura of famous authors' past, has no shortage of touring options. Matt Bainbridge, also a travel editor with Polarsteps, said you can hack the system to join tours for less.
“Tours and activities are often advertised by third parties, but nothing is stopping you from contacting the provider directly to negotiate a better rate. It isn't always cheaper, but it's always worth a try — especially if you’re joining a tour at the last minute!”
Rooney recommended NOLA and said you can enjoy all the Big Easy has to offer for around $850 to $1,000.
“New Orleans remains one of the best values in domestic travel because so much of the experience comes from simply exploring the city," he said. "Travelers can enjoy live music, historic architecture and unique local cuisine without needing expensive excursions.”
Here are some key takeaways from Rooney’s cost estimates:
Airfare: $250 to $350
Hotel (3 nights): $350 to $450
Meals: $150
Entertainment: $100
4. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
The peso-to-dollar conversion most often works in your favor for trips south of the border.
“Travelers willing to book in advance can often find affordable flights to Puerto Vallarta. Once there, food, transportation and many activities are considerably less expensive than in many U.S. resort destinations,” Rooney said.
He added that you can travel there in style on an estimated budget between $950 and $1,100. Here is his cost breakdown:
Airfare: $350-$500
Hotel (4 nights): $250 to $350
Meals: $100 to $150
Activities: $100
5. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Nothing says summer vacation like a trip to the beach. Though this type of real estate is quite coveted, you can still find some great locations to visit without going into debt.
“Myrtle Beach remains one of the strongest values for travelers seeking a traditional beach vacation. The beach itself is free, accommodations are often competitively priced, and travelers can control costs while still enjoying a classic summer getaway," Rooney said.
On his estimated budget of around $750 to $950, he said you can expect the following costs:
Airfare: $200 to $350
Hotel (4 nights): $250 to $350
Meals: $100 to $150
Activities: $75 to $100
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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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