10 Budget-Friendly Travel Destinations for 2024
We’ve reached that time of year when everyone you know seems to have just returned from an incredible vacation or is currently on one — and is posting up a storm about it on Instagram. With the costs of travel at a record high — the average cost for a summer vacation has now reached $10,000, according to travel insurance marketplace Squaremouth.com — you might be thinking that taking a vacation is simply not in the cards for you.
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With the summer travel season approaching, it’s not too late to head out on a memorable trip this year — and if you choose your destination right, you don’t have to spend all your money to go.
Here are 10 affordable destinations based on insured trip costs, as identified by Squaremouth.
Colombia
Average trip cost: $3,344
“With its rich coffee culture and cuisine, vibrant cities, and scenic landscapes, Colombia offers plenty of once-in-a-lifetime experiences at a fraction of the cost,” said Mercedes Zach, travel expert at Asaptickets.
You can find cheap flights from America to Carteana or Bogota and explore the country, as safety has improved vastly over the last few decades.
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Puerto Rico
Average trip cost: $3,907
“A tropical Caribbean vacation can be a lot cheaper than you would expect if you aim for less expensive islands such as Puerto Rico,” Zach said.
You can arrive in Puerto Rico in less than three hours from Miami and enjoy the island’s beautiful scenery. You can visit the capital city of San Juan or check out one of the beach towns like Flamenco Beach.
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Bermuda
Average trip cost: $3,987
Bermuda may be closer than you think. This island in the Atlantic Ocean is ideal for beach lovers and sports enthusiasts. Bermuda is also known for world-class sailing if this is something that you want to try out on your next vacation.
Mexico
Average trip cost: $4,667
“Mexico is also an amazing tropical destination for an affordable vacation with an amazing climate and rich culture,” Zach said.
Known for gorgeous beach towns and affordable travel options, Americans have relied on Mexico as a budget travel destination for years.
Are you not sure what to do in Mexico? Here are some suggestions from Zach:
“The first Mexican town that comes to my mind when looking for a budget-friendly beach getaway is the surf town of Puerto Escondido in the state of Oaxaca. It’s famous for its untouched beaches, bohemian vibe and plenty of things to see and do around. Puerto Escondido offers you everything from snorkeling, swimming among the marine life, seeing dolphins in their natural habitat, trying out sport fishing, releasing newborn turtles and taking surf lessons to exploring the nearby beaches, such as Huatulco and the Bay of Carrizalillo.”
Dominican Republic
Average trip cost: $4,726
The Dominican Republic is known for its beautiful resorts across the island. While this may seem like a more expensive travel option, you can save a bit since the resorts offer plenty of amenities. Staying at a resort is more stress-free and you have access to the beach, pool area, hot tubs, saunas and a gym at no extra cost.
Where should you stay when visiting the Dominican Republic? Here are suggestions from Zach:
“Whether you’re looking for a romantic couple’s trip or just some quality time away with the family, Caribbean resorts such as Iberostar Dominicana in Punta Cana, BlueBay Villas Doradas in Puerto Plata or Bahia Principe Grand El Portillo in Las Terrenas deliver great service, fun sports activities and breathtaking views for as little as $200 per night for two people. “
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Jamaica
Average trip cost: $4,747
The island, known for its sunny climate and luxurious resorts, could be the perfect family getaway if you find a deal for a resort that fits your budget. You could enjoy the lively culture, the natural beauty, and the water sports offered.
Aruba
Average trip cost: $5,121
If you’re looking for a tropical destination, look no further than Aruba, where you can still find affordable options for the family. With some of the best white sand beaches and excellent diving options, this could be a memorable family vacation on a budget.
Vietnam
Average trip cost: $5,181
“Vietnam is a diverse country with breathtaking landscapes, amazing food scene and welcoming locals,” Zach said. “Stretching from its border with China in the north to the Gulf of Thailand in the southwest, Vietnam has over 2,000 miles of majestic coastline with magnificent golden beaches, fishing villages, tropical islands, national parks, spectacular inland waterways, majestic mountains, lush rice terraces, 1,000-year-old temples, dynamic cities and historic villages, all worth exploring and falling in love with.”
While the flight could add to your cost, you’ll likely save money on accommodations and food when you land in Vietnam.
“Budget accommodation ranges from $15 to $50 per night, with meals costing around $2 to $5 per dish at local eateries,” said Christy Woodrow, a travel writer behind the blog Ordinary Traveler. “Transportation within the country is affordable, with domestic flights starting from $30 and local buses and trains being even cheaper.”
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The Bahamas
Average trip cost: $5,325
You won’t have to travel far to get to The Bahamas as you’re not too far from the Florida coast, and you can swim with the pigs in The Exumas before you know it. You can find a budget resort or look up deals on hotels to have an affordable stay.
Philippines
Average trip cost: $5,330
Traveling in the Philippines is ideal for budget-conscious travelers as you can find cheap accommodations and options once you arrive.
“You can comfortably manage expenses at $30 to $50 per day, covering accommodation, meals, and transportation,” Woodrow said. “For a more mid-range experience, budget around $70 to $100 per day.”
To maximize your savings, focus on a single region of the Philippines because traveling to multiple islands can be pricey.
Gabrielle Olya contributed to the reporting for this article.
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