The cheapest way to travel in the USA involves combining budget transport options like buses, ride-shares, and discount airlines with cost-effective lodging such as hostels, Airbnbs, and couchsurfing. By planning strategically, using travel passes, leveraging off-peak discounts, and exploring underrated destinations, travelers can cut expenses drastically while still experiencing America’s top attractions and hidden gems.
Why Traveling Cheap in the USA Matters
The United States is a dream destination for millions worldwide, boasting iconic cities, breathtaking national parks, cultural experiences, and diverse food scenes. But many travelers hesitate because of the assumption that traveling in the USA is expensive. Flights, hotels, food, and domestic transportation can add up quickly. Yet, with smart planning, you can explore America without draining your savings.
This long-form guide explores the cheapest ways to travel in the USA in 2025, while answering trending queries like:
- How much does a USA trip cost?
- What is the cheapest place to vacation in the USA?
- What are the top budget hacks for travel?
- What are the top 10 places to visit in the USA affordably?
- How can I experience food tours without overspending?
How Much Does a USA Trip Cost in 2025?
A trip to the USA can vary widely depending on your travel style. On average:
- Budget travelers: $70–$100 per day (shared dorms, bus travel, local food).
- Mid-range travelers: $150–$250 per day (3-star hotels, rental cars, domestic flights).
- Luxury travelers: $400+ per day (premium hotels, fine dining, private tours).
Breakdown example for a budget traveler in New York City (3 days):
- Hostel stay: $50 per night = $150
- Subway/bus: $35 for 7-day MetroCard
- Street food/local diners: $15–$20/day = $60
- Attractions (Statue of Liberty, museum passes): $80 Total: ~$325
Travelers willing to stay in hostels, use public transportation, and prioritize free attractions (parks, walking tours, cultural festivals) can manage surprisingly well even in expensive cities.
What Is the Cheapest Place to Vacation in the USA?
Not all destinations are equal when it comes to affordability. Some cities and regions offer world-class experiences at a fraction of the cost compared to New York or Los Angeles.
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Top Affordable Vacation Spots in the USA (2025):
- San Antonio, Texas – Famous for the Alamo and River Walk, with affordable food and free walking tours.
- Albuquerque, New Mexico – Unique Native American culture, hot air balloons, and cheap accommodations.
- Savannah, Georgia – Historic charm, walkable streets, and free public parks.
- Salt Lake City, Utah – Gateway to 5 National Parks; low-cost outdoor adventures.
- Memphis, Tennessee – Blues music, barbecue food, and free live performances.
These destinations are often overlooked by international tourists, keeping costs down but experiences rich.
Cheapest Ways to Travel Around the USA
Transportation within the United States can make or break your budget. Here are the most cost-effective strategies:
1. Buses: The Backbone of Budget Travel
- Companies like Greyhound, Megabus, and FlixBus offer fares as low as $10–$15 if booked early.
- Real-life example: A Megabus ticket from Philadelphia to Washington, D.C. can cost as little as $5.
2. Budget Airlines
- Carriers like Spirit, Frontier, and Southwest often have flash sales with one-way flights for under $50.
- Tip: Always check baggage fees; budget airlines charge extra for carry-ons.
3. Amtrak Deals
- Though trains are often more expensive, Amtrak offers USA Rail Passes ($499 for 10 rides within 30 days).
- Best for cross-country explorers.
4. Carpooling and Rideshare
- Apps like BlaBlaCar and community boards offer ride-sharing options for cheaper long-distance travel.
5. Car Rentals with Discount Codes
- Consider Turo (Airbnb for cars) for cheaper rentals, especially in smaller cities.
How Much Money Would You Need for a Trip to America?
Your budget depends on how long you plan to stay and what type of traveler you are. For a 2-week trip:
- Backpacker style: $1,200–$1,800 (includes hostels, buses, cheap meals).
- Mid-range: $2,500–$3,500 (3-star hotels, mix of buses and budget flights).
- Luxury: $7,000+ (premium hotels, rental cars, fine dining).
Realistically, most budget travelers manage on $100/day, especially if mixing expensive cities with cheaper ones (e.g., New York + Nashville + New Orleans).
Top 10 Places to Visit in the USA (Budget-Friendly)
- New York City, New York – Explore Central Park, Staten Island Ferry, Times Square.
- Washington, D.C. – Free museums (Smithsonian), iconic monuments.
- Chicago, Illinois – Free concerts, Millennium Park, deep-dish pizza experiences.
- Las Vegas, Nevada – Affordable hotels off-strip, free casino shows.
- San Francisco, California – Golden Gate views, Chinatown food tours.
- New Orleans, Louisiana – Jazz music, street performers, Mardi Gras parades.
- Austin, Texas – Free live music, food trucks, outdoor lakes.
- Miami, Florida – Beach days, Little Havana culture, affordable Cuban food.
- Seattle, Washington – Pike Place Market, hiking trails nearby.
- Grand Canyon, Arizona – National Park pass ($80/year for unlimited visits).
11 Delicious Food Tours Across the U.S.
Food is a central part of American culture, and you don’t have to overspend to enjoy it. Consider these budget-friendly yet delicious tours:
- New Orleans Creole & Cajun Street Food Tour
- Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza Crawl
- Portland Food Cart Experience
- Austin BBQ Trail
- Los Angeles Taco Tour
- San Francisco Chinatown Dumpling Walk
- Philadelphia Cheesesteak Experience
- Seattle Pike Place Market Bites
- Miami Little Havana Cuban Sandwich Tour
- Nashville Hot Chicken Trail
- Boston Chowder & Seafood Tasting
Many of these tours can be self-guided by following online maps and local blogs.
The 10 Best United States Exotic Hotels 2025 (with Prices)
Even budget travelers sometimes crave unique experiences. Exotic hotels don’t always mean breaking the bank if booked in advance:
- Under Canvas Grand Canyon (Arizona) – Luxury glamping; from $179/night.
- The Liberty Hotel (Boston) – Historic converted prison; from $230/night.
- The Madonna Inn (California) – Whimsical themed rooms; from $189/night.
- Treebones Resort (Big Sur) – Ocean-view yurts; from $220/night.
- Freehand Hotel (Chicago) – Chic hostel-hotel hybrid; dorms from $45/night.
- McMenamins Kennedy School (Portland) – Stay in a former school; from $160/night.
- The Roxbury (New York) – Fantasy-themed rooms; from $195/night.
- The Queen Mary Hotel (Long Beach) – Historic ship; from $150/night.
- Dog Bark Park Inn (Idaho) – Dog-shaped B&B; from $150/night.
- Lizzie Borden House (Massachusetts) – Spooky historic inn; from $175/night.
Practical Travel Hacks to Save Money
- Travel off-season (January–March, September–November).
- Use free walking tours (pay-what-you-can models in big cities).
- Book buses and flights in advance.
- Buy a National Parks Pass if visiting multiple parks.
- Carry a reusable water bottle; bottled water is pricey.
- Cook your own meals when staying at Airbnbs/hostels with kitchens.
FAQ Section –
1. What is the absolute cheapest way to travel in the USA?
The cheapest way is combining buses for intercity travel, hostels or couchsurfing for accommodation, and grocery shopping instead of eating out daily. Travelers often spend under $50/day when using Greyhound/Megabus, cooking their meals, and booking free activities like hikes, festivals, or museums. Adding apps like Rome2Rio helps compare every option.
2. How do I travel across the USA on a tight budget?
Cross-country travel on a budget means choosing either an Amtrak Rail Pass ($499) or Greyhound’s multi-city tickets, then mixing in free city activities. Many travelers plan coast-to-coast trips under $1,000 using this strategy, especially if they stay in hostel networks or volunteer for accommodation via Workaway/WWOOF.
3. Is it cheaper to fly or drive in the USA?
Flying can be cheaper if booked early and for long distances (e.g., New York to Los Angeles on Spirit Airlines for under $100). Driving is cheaper if you’re traveling with 2–3 people splitting gas costs. Solo travelers often find buses cheaper than renting cars.
4. What’s the best way to save on accommodation?
Hostels ($25–$60/night), Airbnb shared rooms, and Couchsurfing are the best options. Long-term travelers also benefit from house-sitting via TrustedHousesitters, staying rent-free in exchange for pet care.
5. How much cash should I carry while traveling in the USA?
Carry $100–$200 in cash for emergencies, but use cards for most expenses. The USA is card-friendly, and carrying too much cash increases risk.
6. Can I travel the USA without renting a car?
Yes! Cities like New York, Boston, Chicago, and San Francisco have strong public transport. Intercity buses and trains connect most major routes. Apps like Wanderu simplify bookings.
7. What is the cheapest city to fly into in the USA?
Budget hubs include Orlando, Las Vegas, Denver, and Chicago. These airports see heavy competition, driving fares down.
8. How do students travel cheaply in the USA?
Students get discounts on Greyhound, Amtrak, museums, and even city passes. Many also use student IDs to score reduced rates at attractions.
9. How do I travel the USA for free?
Travel hacking with credit card miles, volunteering at hostels, or joining exchange programs like WWOOF are ways to cut 100% of transport/lodging costs.
10. How much does food cost per day in the USA?
Budget travelers spend $15–$25/day eating at diners, food trucks, or grocery store-prepped meals. Cooking is even cheaper.
