Budget Trip Planning: Stretching Every Dollar Without Killing the Fun

Let me let you in on something: you can travel on a shoestring budget.
It is not glitz and glam. It takes preparation, planning, and zero expectations.
But it’s 100% worth it.

Your cheapest option is going to be road tripping with camping. That’s just the truth. No fancy hotels, no expensive flights — just you, the open road, and some basic gear.

Start with your budget and work backwards.
If you don’t know your budget yet, start with the big things that are free or close to free. Work from there.

Your non-negotiables are gas and lodging. Period.
We like state parks for camping (bonus points if there’s a good playground), but don’t sleep on those hidden gems either — like mom-and-pop campgrounds or even Hipcamp listings. Sometimes you find the best spots where you least expect it.

Look to travel during the shoulder seasons — spring and fall — when crowds thin out and prices drop.
Summer can be fun, but you’ll also pay triple and fight every tourist within a 100-mile radius. No thanks.

When it comes to activities, keep chasing those deals. Look for discounted tickets, free museum days, or even library programs that offer free passes to local attractions. It takes a little digging, but those little wins add up fast.

Remember: it’s not about the glitz. It’s about the memories.