Budget-Friendly Getaways for Families: 8 Affordable Trips That Don’t Break the Bank

earngrowgo
Jun 10
3 min read

Make Memories Without Maxing Out Your Credit Card

Family vacations don’t have to come with a hefty price tag. In fact, some of our most memorable trips were also the most affordable! Whether you’re looking to unplug in nature, explore a new city, or enjoy a weekend road trip, these budget-friendly getaways are perfect for families who want fun without the financial stress.

Here are 8 affordable family travel ideas to inspire your next adventure.

1. Go Camping—Or Try “Cabin Camping”

Camping is one of the cheapest and most bonding family activities. Whether you go old-school with tents or opt for a cozy cabin, nature provides the entertainment.

Why it’s budget-friendly:

Campsites range from $10–$40/night
No pricey attractions needed—just hiking, swimming, and s’mores
Cabins in state parks often cost less than hotels
You can even "camp" in your backyard for a completely free "getaway". Don't knock it 'till you try it! Our family loves doing this on a random weekend.

Pro tip: Borrow gear from friends or check Facebook Marketplace before buying new.

2. Take a Road Trip to a Nearby Small Town

You don’t need a plane ticket to have an adventure. Small towns often have hidden gems like local diners, quirky museums, trails, and free festivals.

Savings perks:

No airfare
Flexible schedule
Check for free events happening in town before you go!
Bring your own snacks and stay in budget motels or Airbnb homes

Idea: Let each kid pick one “must-do” activity or stop along the way to get them involved.

3. Visit a State or National Park

Parks offer low-cost outdoor fun: hiking, wildlife spotting, waterfalls, and beautiful views.

Tips to keep it cheap:

Buy an annual National Park pass if you’ll visit more than once ($80 covers the whole family)
Pack a cooler instead of eating at park restaurants
Many state parks offer free or low-fee entrance, check their calendars for free days and times

Family favorites: Canyonlands, Rocky Mountains, Mammoth Cave, and your own state’s hidden gems.

4. Plan an Off-Season Beach Trip

Want the beach without peak-season prices? Travel just before or after summer—like late May or early September.

Budget hacks:

Stay a few blocks from the beach to save on lodging
Bring your own gear (towels, snacks, sand toys)
Look for destinations with free public beaches

Destinations to consider: Gulf Shores, Outer Banks, Michigan or Ohio beaches (Sleeping Bear Dunes is quite beautiful), or even lakefront beaches.

5. Do a "Staycation" With a Twist

Sometimes the best budget getaway is right at home. Plan a few days of local exploration:

Staycation ideas:

Visit nearby museums, parks, or trails
Host a family movie night “under the stars”
Try cooking meals from a different country each night - this is SO much fun!

Make it special: Create an itinerary, set a vacation budget, and unplug just like you would if you were traveling.

6. Book Last-Minute Hotel Deals for a Weekend Trip

Apps like Hotwire, Priceline Express Deals, or HotelTonight can save big—especially for last-minute weekend getaways.

Best for:

Urban escapes to nearby cities
Exploring zoos, aquariums, or science centers with package discounts
Pool days and room service fun for the kids

Bundle tip: Some hotels offer family packages with included meals or attraction tickets.

7. Visit Friends or Family (and Make a Mini-Vacation Out of It)

Staying with loved ones can slash your lodging costs. Add a few low-cost local experiences and it becomes a full-fledged getaway.

Ideas:

Day hikes, local tours, or community events
Host a “cousins camp” or themed family fun night
Bring a thank-you gift instead of paying for a hotel
They will often have great ideas for (free or cheap) fun around their city since they live there

8. Take Advantage of Free Museums & Attractions

Many cities offer free museum days, botanical gardens, and even free admission for kids under a certain age.

Budget-friendly cities with free/cheap fun:

Washington, D.C. (tons of free museums!)
St. Louis (free zoo, science center)
Kansas City, Minneapolis, San Diego (free parks & kid-friendly attractions)

Travel tip: Check the local tourism site for free events, city passes, or cultural festivals.

Final Thoughts: Big Fun Doesn’t Require a Big Budget

Traveling as a family is about making memories, not maxing out your budget. With a little planning, creativity, and flexibility, your next vacation can be fun, meaningful, and totally affordable.