Trying to organize a family vacation that everyone will love has never been easy. However, it can feel impossible in today’s economic climate. The sky-high cost of living has made it harder than ever to afford (or justify paying for) a big family trip.
Thankfully, while luxury resorts and cruises might be off-limits for now, there are still many ways you can enjoy a well-deserved break. In this post, we’ve curated a list of 14 vacation ideas that will let you make amazing family memories without breaking the bank.
1. Washington, D.C.
Washington’s long list of free attractions makes it a great place for a budget-friendly getaway. With famous monuments, museums, zoos, and parks to explore, there’s something for everyone.
Donation-based walking tours, a calendar full of free and cheap events, an extensive bike-share scheme, and endless cheap eats add to the capital’s affordability. Top tip: Like every other trip idea on this list, it’s worth visiting outside of the summer months to avoid peak crowds and prices.
2. National Park Trips
America’s national parks are an excellent option for outdoorsy families. Places like the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, and Yellowstone are bucket-list locations packed with unforgettable sights and free activities.
Camping will help make these trips even cheaper. Spend your days hiking, biking, fishing, and swimming, before cooking dinner on the grill and telling stories around the fire. Just book ahead to avoid disappointment – and don’t forget the s’mores!
3. San Diego, California
“America’s Finest City” has unbeatable weather, mile after mile of stunning beaches, and dozens of enviable attractions that are either free or inexpensive. A few options include strolling through Balboa Park, exploring Old Town and the Gaslamp Quarter, visiting the 4,600-acre Mission Bay Park, and (if you have a car) doing the famous 59-Mile Scenic Drive.
4. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg is a beautiful town in the Great Smoky Mountains. You can enjoy leisurely days hiking to scenic lookouts, visiting waterfalls, eating authentic southern fare, traveling on the free “Gatlinburg Trolleys,” and enjoying a town calendar packed with free events and festivals.
For the best bang for your buck on accommodation, wait until the off-season, or consider organizing a family camping trip instead.
5. Orlando, Florida
While most people associate Orlando with expensive Disney attractions and theme parks, many of the best things to do here don’t cost a dime.
Good examples include Disney Springs, Lake Nona’s enormous sculpture garden, and the Tibet-Butler Preserve. You could also buy a Go Orlando Card. This digital pass can help you save up to 50% on some of the city’s most popular attractions.
6. Utah
Utah is one of the best states in America for active families seeking an adventurous vacation. It’s home to the “Mighty 5” national parks (Arches, Zion, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Bryce Canyon), each offering breathtaking landscapes and inexpensive experiences.
With hiking, biking, campsite stays, and plenty of packed lunches, you can enjoy an active trip that keeps costs to a minimum. Top tip: Buy a National Park pass to enjoy additional savings throughout the trip.
7. Detroit, Michigan
For a fun city break that’s closer to home, head to Detroit. After a long period of economic decline, it’s well and truly on the up. Expect a bustling place with Art Deco buildings, world-class museums (don’t miss The Henry Ford Museum), a thriving food scene, and popular local markets. The Detroit RiverFront Conservancy and its lovely riverwalk add to the appeal.
8. Mexico
The cost of a Mexico vacation depends greatly on when you go, where you stay, and the level of tourist infrastructure there. Nevertheless, America’s neighbor to the south can be extremely affordable. Our best advice is to travel on a low-cost airline, consider booking hostel accommodation over hotels, stick to the (delicious) street food, and head inland instead of the more popular coastal locations.
9. Dominican Republic
Just because the Caribbean is a luxury destination doesn’t mean you can’t travel on a budget there. Case and point? The Dominican Republic.
By Caribbean standards, this idyllic country is notoriously affordable. You and your family can enjoy its pristine sands, turquoise waters, laidback vibes, and delicious food without stretching yourself too thin financially.
10. Home Exchanges
Although the thought of swapping homes with a stranger might sound risky and unappealing, it’s becoming more and more popular – mainly because it’s an excellent way to reduce the cost of travel.
Say goodbye to paying for hotels or Airbnbs. Home exchanges allow you to stay in a local person’s house for free. You simply reciprocate in the future by hosting someone at your place. Check out websites like HomeExchange.com to learn more.
11. Lisbon, Portugal
Flying to Europe isn’t cheap, but you’d be surprised how affordable some countries across the Pond can be once you’re there.
Portugal is a prime example. It’s one of Western Europe’s cheapest destinations. Better yet, it has so much sunshine, history, coastal beauty, and cultural appeal that it guarantees an unforgettable trip. The capital, Lisbon, is particularly special. Expect a blissful mix of beach and city life with no shortage of free things to do.
12. Andalusia, Spain
Andalusia shouldn’t break the bank, either. The cost of living in this beautiful region of southern Spain is notoriously low, so expect groceries, restaurants, and accommodation to feel cheap by U.S. standards.
Better yet, you’ll sit in old cobblestone squares surrounded by mountains and medieval architecture, eating freshly made tapas, sipping local wine, and watching Flamenco dancers perform late into the night.
13. London, England
Trust us, London is surprisingly affordable. With three major airports, flights are frequent and thus reasonably cheap. Thanks to its first-rate public transport system, getting around is cost-effective, too (young children travel free). Then there are the activities. London has endless parks, museums, monuments, and events you can enjoy for free.
To save on accommodation, stay further from the center, book an Airbnb with a kitchen (so you can cook for yourself), or consider a home exchange.
14. Thailand
Thailand has diverse natural beauty, friendly locals, delicious food, and an exchange rate that lets you live like royalty. Put together, it’s perfect for a cheap and exotic family vacation.
Flights may cost more than you’d like, but everything else is remarkably inexpensive. For example, you can eat out for a few dollars and stay in high-end hotels for less than $30 a night. If you’re wondering where to base yourself, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Krabi are a few of popular spots.
