Is the price of airfares interrupting plans for your summer getaway? It certainly is ours. June will be here in a couple of months, and for those of us who love to travel, the urge to wanderlust is strong. However, with airfare prices soaring, planning a vacation that includes flying and fits within your budget parameters can be difficult. This summer, explore new places without taking a plane.
U.S. Cities with a European Feel
Fortunately, there are ways to plan a budget-friendly vacation this summer that don’t involve boarding a plane. Instead of traveling to a different continent or country, look around your region for destinations you can discover by driving. Many states have attractions that are as exciting and memorable as their international counterparts.
For example, if you want to go to London this summer but can’t pay for the airfare, consider visiting Boston instead. Boston is probably the U.S. city most like London in culture and charm. Stay downtown close to the action. Walk the Freedom Trail. East fish & chips in a pub or enjoy afternoon tea in one of the fine hotels.
Want to get away to Madrid? If you live in the South, head to St. Augustine, Florida. Midwesterners may want to visit Santa Fe, New Mexico, and take a day trip to Madrid (MAD-rid, not Ma-DRID). And, those living in the West might spend a few days on the San Diego coast. The Spanish influence is strong in these cities, and I’m sure you can find somewhere to enjoy a plate of tapas and a glass of sangria!
Was Venice on your summer getaway travel list? Visit Venice, California. The city has its own canals and pedestrian bridges inspired by Venice, Italy! Live in the South? Paddleboard or kayak down the canals of Cape Coral, Florida. While neither destination is exactly like the European Venice, it is less expensive, and you will have a great time on your summer getaway. If you decide Venice, Italy is doable, check out our curated digital travel guide for this tourist destination.
Friends and Family Option
Consider staying with friends or family. This option may not be what you would consider your ideal vacation, but if they have room, it can help cut your costs, even if it is just a few days. It’s also a great way to catch up with loved ones.
Camp or RV
Camp or rent an RV. Not only is it cheaper than a hotel, but it also provides a unique experience that you can’t find anywhere else. Our go-to website to identify unique camping spots is Hipcamp. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but both options let you cook your meals, saving even more money. If you are not big on camping, you might want to test the waters with a short weekend trip. Reach out to friends or family if you need to borrow some equipment. Most people are happy to loan out a tent, cookstove, etc. There are also options to rent an RV directly from owners, which can be less expensive than renting from a dealership.
Cruises
Cruising is another viable option if you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to explore the world. They are often cheaper than business-class airfares. And this is especially true if you are willing to book an inside stateroom. Cruises also offer a great way to explore multiple destinations in one trip. If you’ve never cruised before, we recommend taking a short 3- or 4-day cruise to make sure you enjoy the experience. We love that you only unpack once and that meals are included in the cruise price.
Hotels
There are plenty of budget-friendly options for those who want to stay in a hotel. Look for hotels off the beaten path or outside of major cities. Make sure they include breakfast with the nightly rate. If you have any travel credit card points or hotel points, now might be the time to redeem some of those.
Consider a Shorter Vacation
Also, consider taking shorter and more frequent vacations over the summer. So, instead of planning 1 or 2 weeks away, break that time into 3- or 4-day chunks so that you end up with several getaways, not just one. Recent studies have shown that the health and psychological benefits we reap from vacations are brief and may even dissipate before we return to work. By taking shorter and more frequent vacations throughout the summer, we will continue to refill our wellness reserve.
Conclusion
The point is that whether you are looking for a beach vacation, a city escape, or a nature experience, chances are you can find something within driving distance of your home. Don’t let the soaring prices of airfare keep you from experiencing the world this summer, especially the world right around you. With a little research and careful planning, you can enjoy a wonderful and memorable vacation without breaking the bank or taking a plane.
No matter what type of vacation you are looking for, there are plenty of ways to plan a budget-friendly summer getaway.
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