How to Plan a Trip to the USA on a Budget
Planning a trip can be a daunting and exciting process, one that requires considering multiple aspects. From forming a budget to choosing your destinations, following the necessary steps will ensure a memorable trip.
When it comes to planning a trip, the budget plays the biggest role, and everything depends on it. Being on a tighter budget doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t get to visit the States; it means you’ll need to plan carefully.
To help you with that, in today’s guide, we’ll discuss planning a trip to the USA on a budget and the steps and considerations you’ll need to make.
Book the Flight Strategically
The largest expense when traveling to the States is the flight. Depending on the departure country, a round trip could easily cost in the four-digit range. However, there are ways to minimize the cost or at least aim for a lower one.
Planning and booking the flight early is a good way to achieve this. Getting the tickets several months in advance ensures you’re not paying an overinflated price. The closer you are to the departure date, the more expensive the flight will be.
You should also consider which day of the week you’ll be flying. Wednesday and Saturday are statistically the cheapest, so if your schedule is flexible, these days offer a way to pay less. It’s also a good idea to use flight comparison services to ensure you’re paying a fair price.
Another great tip is to decide which airport you’ll want to arrive at. Increased competition among airlines and the amount of airports across the US means you have plenty to choose from, allowing you to chase that attractive price.
Save On Accommodation
Accommodation costs can vary depending on your preference and destination. The average price for the least expensive double room across 50 cities in the US is $167 per night. This means the more expensive options are a lot more expensive, but there are also affordable options.
Hostels are a more affordable option, averaging around $40 for a private room, while a bed-only room is even less. This is an excellent option if you’re traveling alone or with a group with an adventurous spirit.
If your trip involves visiting multiple parts of the USA, there’s a way to save even more. Couchsurfing is a great way to do this, thanks to locals who are willing to host travelers. Again, this is another option for those looking for an adventure, but it’s an excellent way to save on accommodations.
Leverage Technology
Even before you get to the US, you’ll need to do some research and book in advance. This is where technology can help you out. A good approach is to get a USA VPN, which will make it look like you’re in the US, giving you access to deals that are only available to the locals.
You should also consider using specific apps to find accommodations, transport schedules, discounts, and more. It may seem overwhelming at first, but after a while, you’ll get the hang of it, allowing you to experience the US on a budget.
Consider the Transport
Even if your trip doesn’t involve visiting multiple cities and states, you’ll still need to check out your transport options. Major cities have an extensive subway and bus network, making them affordable and efficient ways to get around. In New York City, for example, a subway fare is $2.90, while the express buses cost $7.
If you’re planning on visiting multiple cities or taking cross-state trips, long-distance buses can be a great way to reach your destination while saving some money. Depending on when you book your tickets and the destination, you’re looking at prices as low as $10.
Look For Free Attractions
Wanting to visit the States means you’ll want to explore multiple locations. There are countless museums and parks that charge a fee to enter, but many also offer free access for everyone.
If you’re a fan of national parks, there are six fee-free days each year where a single national park doesn’t charge for entrance. They are spaced apart, so unless you’re planning on staying for a few months, the most you’ll get is to access only one.
You can also consider free events often organized by many cities across the US. With countless festivals, markets, and concerts, there’s plenty to do, and the best part is that you won’t be spending any money on it.
Budget-Friendly Dining
We all want to dine at fancy restaurants, but that’s not the budget-friendly option. Even inexpensive restaurants cost around $20 on average, with the expensive ones costing more than double.
Wanting to save money on dining during your trip to the US is an option, but you’ll need to plan it. If your accommodation has a kitchen, shopping at discount stores and cooking at home is a great way to save a few dollars. You can also consider food trucks as a great option, as they’re often a lot more affordable than a restaurant.
Even if you decide to dine at bars and restaurants, you should look for places that have discounts or happy hours. While there will be some conditions, it’s still a good option for saving money on your trip.
Conclusion
Traveling to a new country is an exciting adventure. Getting acquainted with the local culture and cuisine are only a few of the reasons why most people want to travel to new places. Setting your sights on the US means you’ll need to plan because, for most international tourists, it’s a bigger trip than most of us imagine.
Things become even more complicated if you’re on a tighter budget. It doesn’t make the overall trip impossible, but it means you’ll need to consider a few things to ensure it goes smoothly. If you’re planning a trip to the USA, today’s tips will help you budget wisely and ensure you don’t overspend.
