Whether it’s your first trip, honeymoon or babymoon, sharing your experiences as a couple can make your trip even more enjoyable. However, even if you have the motivation, your budget may not allow you to go on a luxurious vacation.
With some strategic planning and calculations, it is possible to create an affordable vacation. You can also look for off-season or less popular destinations, or choose a city known for its great free attractions. Find the cheapest flights on sites like Hopper and Skyscanner. It’s also beneficial to be flexible about timing and travel dates.
Travel experts advise putting together a budget and itinerary to estimate the cost of hotels, activities, transportation, food, and other purchases. He also recommends booking a hotel with a kitchen so you can cook your own meals instead of eating out. Also consider all-inclusive hotels. However, make sure you evaluate what is actually included and how many amenities you can access.
Recognizing that “affordable” is a relative term, we’ve strived to be the place in North America where couples can enjoy a fun vacation on their own budget. We looked for free or low-cost activities and considered whether cheaper accommodation was available. With that in mind, here are some of the most affordable vacations that are perfect for couples.
mazatlan, mexico
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Mazatlan has golden beaches, delicious restaurants, a vibrant nightlife, history, 21 miles of seaside promenade, affordable prices, and plenty of activities for little or no cost. In the downtown historic district, couples can stroll through the romantic old square of Plaza Machado, stroll the cobblestone streets, and grab a drink or ice cream. You can spend an entire day along the Malecon de Mazatlán browsing the souvenir shops, watching Cliff’s divers, and buying snacks at the kiosks. Room rates at the all-inclusive Pueblo Bonito Mazatlan Beach Resort start from less than $200 per night. Additionally, you will have access to the restaurants and amenities of the upscale Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort & Spa. The property includes his 16,500 square foot wellness facility with a hydrotherapy pool, steam room, spa treatments (available for an additional fee), and fitness classes.
new york city
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You might be surprised to see New York City on a list of affordable vacations, but once you arrive in the Big Apple, there’s plenty to do without spending a dime. Although the city has started cracking down on Airbnb, you can still find vacation rentals and hotels for around $200 a night. Eating out doesn’t have to be expensive either. Enjoy the iconic (and affordable) New York Bagel breakfast, grab a slice of pizza, or try a street hot dog. Many of New York City’s museums are free or accept donations. Couples can also take the subway to Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City. It offers stunning views of the New York City skyline. You can also enjoy views of the city from above on the Roosevelt Island Tramway (about $3 each way).
Honolulu, Hawaii
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If you’re serious about vacationing in Hawaii, you can plan it on a tight budget, especially if you use airline miles and points. In Honolulu, you can spend time at the beach, go hiking, or visit Pearl Harbor National Monument and the USS Arizona Memorial for free. Oahu’s bus system is an inexpensive and efficient way to explore the island outside of the state capital. The fun of traveling is the food. Find farmers markets and try saimin (noodle soup), poke, and shave ice at local spots. Room rates at The Twin Fin, a surf-inspired beachfront hotel, start at $199, and nightly entertainment includes his DJ, live music, stargazing and more.
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
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Located on the north shore of Lake Coeur d’Alene in northwestern Idaho, this year-round destination is perfect for couples who love the outdoors. In addition to enjoying the stunning scenery, hiking, biking, boating, and visiting wineries and breweries are also popular activities. Stroll through the downtown area near the waterfront, browse the boutiques, and grab a bite at a restaurant. Accommodation options include hotels, guesthouses, and campgrounds. Coeur d’Alene Resort is known for its daily scenic cruises, as well as sunset and dinner sailings, with room rates starting at around $199.
gulf shores alabama
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With sandy beaches, warm Gulf waters, delicious food, and a vibrant nightlife, the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach areas are perfect for an economical and romantic getaway. Ride the Ferris wheel or head to The Track Family Fun Park to drive go-karts, ride roller coasters, or play mini golf. For less than $10, you can ride the Mobile Bay Ferry and enjoy the beautiful bay. Choose from over 200 restaurants and sample local seafood like shrimp, oysters, crab, and snapper. Hotels, resorts, bed and breakfasts, and campgrounds offer many affordable accommodations.
Fort Worth, Texas
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About a 30-minute drive from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, Fort Worth is a rapidly growing city known for its Western culture and cowboy heritage, now preserved in the Stockyards National Historic District. Explore the streets where the cattle trade once took place and learn about the history of the area on a walking tour. Don’t miss the cattle drive as Fort Worth’s longhorn herd passes by with herdsmen answering questions. There’s plenty to see and do, including shops, taverns, restaurants, rodeo events at the Cowtown Coliseum, and the famous Billy Bob’s Texas Music and Dance. Stay at the Kimpton Harper Hotel for less than $200 a night, or visit the luxury hotel Drover Autograph Collection in Mule Alley and enjoy a drink in the outdoor Backyard Lounge.
san juan, puerto rico
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If you’re looking for beautiful beaches, delicious food, and history, no passport required, consider visiting Puerto Rico. Instead of expensive resorts, consider locally-owned boutique hotels and glamping sites. Taxis and Uber are available for getting around the San Juan area, so there’s no need to rent a car.
In Old San Juan, visit the 16th-century fortress, watch street performers along the Paseo de la Princesa promenade, and enjoy salsa dancing at cocktail bars like La Factoria. Visit museums with low admission prices, such as the American Museum, or head to the nearby Santurce district to see stunning street art for free. El Yunque National Forest, less than an hour’s drive from the city, is the only rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. Hike to the waterfall and enjoy a picnic lunch in beautiful surroundings.
palm springs california
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The Greater Palm Springs desert is a popular tourist destination year-round, but the hot summer months draw more visitors to the pools and air-conditioned venues. No problem. In addition to both, there are many things you can do without spending too much money. Visit Art’s Gallery on Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs, take a self-guided tour of mid-century architecture and celebrity homes, and hike among rock formations and palm trees on the Indian Canyon Trail. . There are many affordable hotels and vacation rentals in the Palm Springs area. Joshua Tree National Park, about an hour’s drive away, is home to stunning rock formations, native plants, cacti, and romantic stargazing.
St. Petersburg and Clearwater, Florida
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Known for its white sand beaches and warm waters, this area is perfect for an affordable vacation, especially if you’re looking for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. From restaurants to clubs and dive bars, there’s plenty to do after the sun goes down. Stroll through the city to see more than 600 murals or take a street art tour. The Dali Museum is housed in a unique building on the waterfront in downtown St. Petersburg and offers discounted tickets on Thursdays after 5 p.m. And with a variety of accommodation options, including B&Bs, the area has accommodation options to suit almost every budget.
Washington DC
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Home to many free monuments and museums, the country’s capital is affordable to visit. Admission to the Smithsonian Institution is free and there’s something to suit every couple’s interests, from space travel and technology to art and natural history. Remember to request your timed admission pass (required for the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of African American History and Culture) in advance. Tours of the White House are also free, but you must request a reservation at least 21 days in advance. Public transportation, including the easy-to-navigate subway system, provides a convenient and inexpensive way to get around. For a budget-friendly meal, head to fast-casual spots like Chef José Andres’ vegetarian restaurant Beefsteak, or try his famous half-smoked chili at the historic chain Ben’s Chili Bowl. Hotels in the capital can be pricey, but staying in nearby Alexandria, Virginia can save you money and allow you to explore another fascinating city.
toronto, canada
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This pedestrian-friendly city is known for its diversity, which is reflected in its vibrant cultural and culinary scene. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of the Distillery District, where art galleries, restaurants and boutiques line the restored industrial buildings, grab a bite to eat at St. Lawrence Market, or browse the stacks of shipping containers with pop-up shops. Let’s take a look. , microbreweries, and special events. You can use the extensive public transportation network or get around on two wheels with bike share. You can easily find a hotel room for less than $200 a night, especially if you’re visiting outside of the peak summer season.
Yosemite National Park, California
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Home to granite cliffs, waterfalls, giant sequoias, and amazing wildlife, Yosemite is one of the most beautiful national parks in the United States. This budget-friendly vacation destination is a paradise for hikers and photographers, and many trails are open even in winter. Save on food and enjoy a picnic lunch while admiring the wonders of Yosemite. From camping to cabins, there are affordable lodging options in or near the park. Even if you’re not staying at a traditional Ahwahnee hotel, be sure to stop by to see the decor, art, and architecture of this historic hotel.
