Economical Vacation Spots That Won’t Break Your Budget

Many people dream of traveling the world, or at least getting a break from their daily routines to relax or explore new places. However, vacations cost a substantial amount of money and can feel prohibitive if you’re on a tight budget.

Fortunately, planning a getaway doesn’t have to cost a fortune because there are many affordable vacation ideas to explore for couples and families. At Tower Loan, our customers often use our personal loans to help pay for vacations, so we’re familiar with lots of economical vacation spots to choose from.

Here are some of our best vacation ideas for couples and suggestions for cheap family vacations.

Budget-Friendly Vacation Planning Tips

Before we dive into these affordable vacation ideas, it’s important to learn how to start planning a budget-friendly vacation, regardless of the destination.

For example, it’s beneficial to use deal-finding tools, such as Skyscanner, Hopper, Google Flights, and Expedia. These online platforms help you compare prices and plan cost-effective trips by uncovering the best deals on flights, car rentals, hotels, and vacation packages.

Aside from hotels, you may be able to find more affordable alternative lodging options. Campgrounds, Airbnbs, and other vacation rental properties might fit better within your budget while giving you a more unique travel experience.

You can often save substantial money on dining out if you focus your travel diet around picnic lunches, local diners, and street food vendors. Not only will you spend less on food, but you may also enjoy more local flavors than you would at overcrowded tourist traps.

For attractions, look for free museum days, volunteer-led walking tours, and outdoor attractions that don’t require entrance fees. You can also save money on affordable vacation ideas by traveling during off-season or shoulder seasons when destinations aren’t as popular, crowded, or expensive.

Romantic & Affordable Vacation Ideas for Couples

Although there are countless vacation ideas for couples to consider, here are some of our favorite places that are fun to see on a budget with your partner.

Exciting Urban Escapes

Toronto, Canada: Toronto is a wonderful place to visit as a couple because of its vibrant arts scene and romantic waterfront. There are multicultural neighborhoods to explore as you stroll hand-in-hand through the Distillery District and take in the skyline views from the CN Tower. It’s also nice to escape the crowds by taking a ferry ride to the islands for a quiet picnic.

Prague, Czech Republic: Prague is often considered to be one of the most romantic cities in Europe, and for good reason. Compared to other European cities, Prague offers cheap vacations for couples, complete with fairytale-like architecture and affordable luxury. You and your partner can savor a candlelit dinner while overlooking the Vltava River and explore hilltop castles at your leisure.

Edinburgh, Scotland: For Medieval charm, dramatic scenery, and cozy pubs, consider Edinburgh for affordable vacations for couples. You can hike to Arthur’s Seat to get panoramic views of the city, visit museums for free, and kick back with a whiskey tasting in Old Town.

Relaxing Beach Getaways

Mazatlán, Mexico: Many couples dream of all-inclusive vacations in Mexico but find the high costs beyond their budgets. Among Mexico’s options for cheap vacations for couples is Mazatlán along the Pacific Coast. Here, you’ll enjoy golden beaches, delicious seafood, and a historic district filled with colorful architecture. Come here for a quiet and authentic Mexican experience with sunset strolls and an affordable price tag.

San Juan, Puerto Rico: For U.S. travelers, you don’t even need a passport to visit Puerto Rico for a couple’s trip. San Juan is a charming city that is convenient and charming. You and your partner can explore Old San Juan’s cobblestone streets and chill on palm tree-lined beaches during the day and then check out the exciting nightlife scene when the sun goes down.

Bangkok, Thailand: If you’re looking for adventure, consider Thailand when weighing the options for affordable vacations for couples. Bangkok is known for its bustling street food scene, inexpensive lodging, and ornate temples. You can get the dose of romance you’re craving at the city’s rooftop bars with panoramic views and unwind with a couple’s massage to ease your jet lag.

Inspiring Nature Escapes

Glacier National Park, Montana: America is filled with incredible national parks to satisfy your thirst for adventure and outdoor recreation. One of our affordable vacation ideas for couples is a Glacier National Park trip that involves camping or a stay in a rustic lodge or cabin. Within the park, you can spend your days hiking together, paddling the lakes, and viewing wildlife while snapping awe-inspiring photography.

Sedona, Arizona: Sedona is known for its healing vortexes and spiritual energy to soothe your soul and bring you closer together as a couple. This part of Arizona has incredible red rock formations that offer a romantic backdrop for scenic hikes, outdoor yoga sessions, and stargazing tours. With the money you save on outdoor adventures, perhaps you can splurge on a couple’s massage at a local spa.

Finger Lakes, New York: The Finger Lakes region of New York is a prime spot for wine lovers. This charming East Coast destination is filled with boutique wineries, waterfall hikes, and lake cruises that are picturesque at sunset. You can look into staying at a cozy inn or even at a local vineyard to take a luxurious vacation that fits within your budget.

Unexpected International Discoveries

Vilnius, Lithuania: Lithuania is an under-the-radar travel destination that’s ideal when you’re looking for cheap getaways for couples. The city of Vilnius is charming and filled with cute cafes, baroque architecture, and quaint courtyards. If you’re looking for an intimate destination with a slow pace, visit Vilnius and check out the old town area and quirky art spots.

Cape Town, South Africa: The South African city of Cape Town is a coastal destination with beaches, mountains, and affordable travel costs. When you visit Cape Town with your loved one, you can explore the historical neighborhoods like Bo-Kaap and dine at seaside cafes while spending quality time together. It’s also fun and romantic to take a wine-tasting tour in Cape Winelands and take a scenic drive on Chapman’s Peak Drive. 

Tuscany, Italy: Tuscany is one of the most romantic places on the planet, and with a bit of research and planning, you might find it more affordable than you expect. Look into farm stays for affordable accommodations and take scenic drives through the rolling hills. Wine lovers can share a bottle at one of the region’s numerous vineyards and take a dip in the natural hot springs. For example, Saturnia’s hot springs are free and open to the public.

Ideas for Cheap Family Vacations

The cost of traveling with kids can really add up when you factor in every family member’s flight prices, meals, and attraction tickets. Thankfully, there are many cheap family vacations you can take together while inspiring a sense of wonder and adventure in your little ones. 

Fun Theme Park & Entertainment Spots

Orlando, Florida: There’s no denying that Disney World is expensive. However, there is a lot more to do for families in Orlando. For example, you can check out Disney Springs for free entertainment, shopping, and dining. ICON Park has a Ferris wheel and family attractions. There are water resort hotels in Orlando that are perfect for budget-minded families and that include access to lazy rivers and splash zones.

Branson, Missouri: Families love visiting Branson because of the live music shows and thrilling roller coasters. Silver Dollar City is a beloved family destination, and the food and lodging nearby are more affordable than in many other larger cities. You can also spend time outdoors hiking for free or check out the zipline and cave tours.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Gatlinburg is the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which offers access to hiking trails and scenic drives. Anakeesta Park, the aerial tramway, and mini-golf courses are favorite attractions for families to visit in this area while sticking to their budgets.

Thrilling Coastal Adventures

Cocoa Beach, Florida: If you want to take a side trip from Orlando, you and your family can head to Cocoa Beach, just about an hour away. This is an affordable area with free beaches and pier dining opportunities. You can also take the kids to visit the Kennedy Space Center nearby for an educational experience.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: Myrtle Beach is filled with oceanfront hotels that are more budget-friendly than many other beach destinations. You and the kids can check out the boardwalk, unique museums, and seaside amusement areas with arcades and mini-golf. Look for local deals and combination packages to make your vacation budget stretch further. 

Daytona Beach, Florida: Another Florida destination that’s among the best family vacations on a budget is Daytona Beach. Here, you’ll find plenty of sand and sun for lounging, biking, and learning about sea turtles and other marine life. There are lots of kid-friendly dining options available and affordable beachfront lodging.

Stunning Nature Destinations & National Parks

Grand Canyon, Arizona: To introduce your kids to one of the most beautiful places in the Southwest, take a trip to the Grand Canyon. This bucket-list destination offers jaw-dropping views and has kid-friendly hikes. There are also Junior Ranger programs for kids and camping available inside the park.

Glenwood Springs, Colorado: Glenwood Springs offers cheap family vacations among the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. West of Denver, this family-friendly town is home to the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, natural hot springs, and many hiking trails. In town, you can find affordable lodging and a walkable downtown area.

Mammoth Cave, Kentucky: The longest cave system in the world is at Mammoth Cave National Park, a place you truly need to see for yourself. This economical vacation spot offers numerous tours to accommodate different ages and adventure levels. After your tour, you can camp at the park and spend your days hiking, kayaking, and taking scenic drives while keeping costs low.

Educational History & Culture Trips

Williamsburg, Virginia: To keep your kids learning and curious as they travel, you can step back in time at Colonial Williamsburg. This unique site features historical reenactments and hands-on activities. Busch Gardens is nearby with theme park rides, and there are combo tickets to help keep travel expenses down.

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania: If you have older kids, a trip to Gettysburg offers fascinating history lessons as you walk the battlefields and drive through the countryside. This is an affordable vacation idea with mini-golf, train rides, and museums to explore in the area.

New York City, New York: Visiting NYC is often an expensive endeavor, but you can make it affordable with kid-friendly activities like visiting Central Park and taking advantage of free museum days. There are also lots of free festivals and events during the summer in New York City. For the best lodging prices, consider staying outside Manhattan and Brooklyn in a hotel or vacation rental in the Bronx or Queens instead.

Combo Destinations for Both Couples and Families

If you and your partner love the idea of combining a romantic getaway with family-friendly travel, some affordable vacation ideas give you the best of both worlds.

Savannah, Georgia: With its cobblestone streets and historic charm, Savannah offers carriage rides everyone will love. There are also scenic riverboat rides, ghost tours, and lovely parks to look forward to.

Niagara Falls, New York and Canada: Everyone will enjoy taking a boat ride on the Maid of the Mist to see the falls and see this iconic natural wonder. The area also offers a mix of winery tours, water parks, and museums.

Honolulu, Hawaii: For a tropical escape that everyone can love, Honolulu offers lovely stretches of beaches and a summit hike up Diamond Head. Check out the Polynesian Cultural Center, Honolulu Zoo, and snorkeling at Hanauma Bay during your trip.

Tips for Traveling Affordably as a Couple or Family

Whether it’s just you and your partner or the whole family, here are some tips for successfully pulling off cheap getaways for couples and cheap family vacations:

• Apply for a vacation loan to help finance your trip
• Use cash-back rewards and credit card points to help with lodging and flight costs
• Book your trip over weekdays to avoid weekend upcharges
• Pack lightly to avoid extra baggage fees at airports
• Stay somewhere with a kitchen to cook meals and save money on dining out
• Set a travel budget before your trip and stick to it

At Tower Loan, you can apply for a vacation loan 100% online or stop by a local branch to explore the best travel loan options available.