Planning a family vacation on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice fun, adventure, or relaxation. With a little planning and creativity, you can enjoy incredible destinations, create unforgettable memories, and still keep your wallet happy. Whether you’re looking for the cheapest places to travel with family, budget-friendly beaches, or international destinations that won’t break the bank, we’ve got you covered.
In this guide, we’ll explore affordable family vacation ideas and answer key questions about how to vacation smart without overspending.
Where Is the Cheapest Place to Travel with Family?
If you’re looking for a family getaway that won’t drain your savings, here are some top budget-friendly destinations in the U.S.:
1. Orlando, Florida
Yes, it’s the theme park capital of the world—but Orlando has a lot more to offer than just Disney and Universal. Families can visit attractions like:
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Lake Eola Park for free swan boat rides and playgrounds
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The Crayola Experience – a hands-on, colorful adventure for kids
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SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium – an indoor aquarium that’s often less pricey than other big attractions
Tip: Look for combo tickets and local deals that bundle smaller attractions for less than the cost of a single-day theme park ticket.
2. Great Smoky Mountains (Tennessee/North Carolina)
The Great Smoky Mountains are a dream for nature-loving families. Entry to the national park is free, and there are tons of scenic hikes, waterfalls, and kid-friendly trails. Nearby towns like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer affordable lodging, go-karts, mini golf, and family-friendly dinner shows.
Check out our post on Family-Friendly Activities in Pigeon Forge for more ideas!
3. San Antonio, Texas
Rich in culture and history, San Antonio offers budget-conscious families:
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Free entry to The Alamo
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A walk along the gorgeous River Walk
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The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site
Bonus: The food scene is family-friendly and budget-friendly, with plenty of delicious Tex-Mex options.
4. Washington, D.C.
An educational and budget-friendly destination! Most of the top attractions in D.C. are completely free, including:
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The Smithsonian Museums
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The National Zoo
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Iconic monuments and memorials
Tip: Stay just outside the city (like in Arlington, VA) to save on hotel costs.
5. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
One of the cheapest beach vacations for families, Myrtle Beach has:
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Free beach access
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Budget-friendly resorts with kitchenettes
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Mini-golf, amusement parks, and boardwalk fun
Tip: Look for hotels that offer free breakfast or kids-stay-free deals.
What Is a Good Budget for a Family Vacation?
Here’s a rough breakdown of family vacation budgets:
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Low Budget ($500–$1,500):
Great for road trips, camping trips, or a long weekend in an affordable city or beach town.
👉 Think: State parks, cabin rentals, or budget hotels. -
Mid-Range ($1,500–$3,500):
Ideal for domestic trips with airfare, car rentals, and a moderate stay.
👉 Think: All-inclusive resorts, Airbnbs with kitchens, or weeklong national park adventures. -
Luxury Budget ($3,500+):
Includes international destinations, higher-end resorts, or extended stays.
👉 Think: Europe with kids, Caribbean resorts, or big-city bucket list trips.
Budget-Saver Tip: Use travel reward points, pack snacks, and plan 1-2 “splurge” days with mostly free activities surrounding them.
Where Is the Cheapest Nicest Place to Vacation?
If you want affordability without sacrificing quality, check out these destinations:
- Mexico (Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum) – Affordable all-inclusive resorts and beautiful beaches.
- Portugal (Lisbon, Porto, Algarve) – One of the cheapest European countries with stunning scenery and family-friendly attractions.
- Thailand (Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket) – Incredibly affordable with cheap accommodations, food, and activities.
- Costa Rica – Offers budget-friendly eco-tourism, beaches, and adventure activities for families.
Where Is the Best Place to Vacation with Kids?
The best kid-friendly vacation spots include:
- Orlando, Florida – Theme parks, water parks, and endless attractions for kids.
- San Diego, California – Beaches, LEGOLAND, and the famous San Diego Zoo.
- Yellowstone National Park – Great for outdoor-loving families with geysers, wildlife, and hiking.
- Hawaii – Kid-friendly beaches, volcano tours, and cultural experiences.
- Myrtle Beach –affordable beachfront hotels with a vast array of kid friendly amenities, multiple kid friendly attractions within walking distance of the beach.
What Is the Most Kid-Friendly State?
Some of the most family-friendly states in the U.S. include:
- Florida – Theme parks, beaches, and family attractions.
- California – Disneyland, national parks, and coastal adventures.
- Tennessee – Affordable family attractions in Pigeon Forge and Nashville.
- Colorado – Great for outdoor-loving families with hiking, skiing, and nature parks.
Where Is the Cheapest Place to Go Abroad with Kids?
For an affordable international family vacation, consider:
- Mexico – Budget-friendly resorts and easy access from the U.S.
- Costa Rica – Affordable eco-tourism and adventure activities.
- Portugal – Safe, budget-friendly, and rich in culture.
- Vietnam – Cheap accommodations, food, and family-friendly activities.
How to Vacation on a Budget
Here are some practical tips for saving money on a family vacation:
- Travel during off-peak seasons – Cheaper flights (aff.) and accommodations.
- Use reward points and travel deals – Credit card points and travel deals can cut costs significantly.
- Choose vacation rentals over hotels – Cooking meals saves money on dining.
- Opt for free attractions – National parks, beaches, and city attractions often have free or low-cost admission.
Where Is the Cheapest Beach to Vacation At?
If you’re looking for an affordable beach getaway, try:
- Myrtle Beach, South Carolina – Affordable accommodations and free beach access.
- Daytona Beach, Florida (aff) – Free beaches and budget-friendly attractions.
- Gulf Shores, Alabama – White sandy beaches without high price tags.
- Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – Budget-friendly beachfront resorts and local dining options.
What Is the Number 1 Vacation Place?
The top vacation destination varies, but some of the most popular spots include:
- Orlando, Florida – Home to Disney World and Universal Studios.
- Hawaii – Stunning beaches and adventure activities.
- Paris, France – A dream vacation spot for many travelers.
- Bali, Indonesia – A paradise for nature lovers and budget travelers.
What Is the Most Expensive State to Vacation In?
The most expensive U.S. states for travel include:
- Hawaii – High accommodation and dining costs.
- California – Expensive attractions and accommodations.
- New York – High hotel and entertainment prices.
- Alaska – Remote location increases travel costs.
The Safest Country to Travel To?
Some of the safest countries for family travel include:
- Switzerland – Low crime rates and beautiful scenery.
- Iceland – Consistently ranked one of the safest places in the world.
- New Zealand – Safe, scenic, and family-friendly.
- Japan – Known for its hospitality and safety.
Final Thoughts
Planning an affordable family vacation is easier than you think! By choosing budget-friendly destinations, using smart travel strategies, and taking advantage of free attractions, you can create unforgettable memories without overspending. Whether you’re exploring U.S. destinations or traveling abroad, there are countless affordable family vacation ideas to fit any budget.
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