How to Travel Across the US Without Breaking the Bank
Thinking about exploring the United States without spending a fortune? You’re not alone. A cheap travel USA experience is possible – you just need to know where to go.
In this guide, I’ll take you through three of the best affordable destinations in the US that are full of charm, culture, and adventure… without the crazy price tag.
Let’s dive in!
New Orleans
Culture, Food, and Music Without the High Costs
Why you should visit :
✅ Live music everywhere—and most of it is free
✅ Incredibly tasty street food like po’boys and beignets for under $10
✅ Beautiful architecture and rich history around every corner
New Orleans is hands-down one of the best cities for a cheap travel USA. It’s a city where you don’t need to spend too much money in order to have a great time. The moment you step into the French Quarter, it feels like stepping into a world of its own – music, color, flavor, and soul.
Walk down Bourbon Street and you’re able to sit and hear free live jazz bands. Or you can go Frenchmen Street where the locals lounge. The energy is electric, and here’s the kicker – you don’t have to lay out a nickel.
Hungry? Grab a world-famous beignet at Café du Monde for a few dollars. Or taste a classic New Orleans po’boy sandwich at one of the local food booths – yum and cheap!
For the views, don’t overlook Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, or a walk on the Mississippi Riverfront – all for free!
Austin, Texas
The Best Cheap Travel USA City for Music Lovers
Why you should visit:
✅ Free or low-cost live music shows every night
✅ Beautiful outdoor spaces and swimming spots
✅ Tacos for $2 – need we say more?
Austin is like nowhere else. It’s laid back, artistic, and alive. If you’re planning a cheap travel USA trip and want a mix of outdoor fun, amazing food, and buzzing nightlife, Austin should be at the top of your list.
Visit Zilker Park, where the natives hang out, picnic, and enjoy live music. It’s free, it’s easygoing, and it’s just off downtown. To swim in cool water, head to Barton Springs Pool – it only costs $5 for non-citizens, and is well worth it.
Want to eat like a king for pennies? Austin’s food truck culture is second to none. Have a breakfast taco for $2 or a full meal of BBQ for under $10.
And the best part? Austin calls itself the “Live Music Capital of the World,” and it isn’t kidding. Free live music is available at bars, parks, and even the airport.
Savannah, Georgia
History and Southern Charm on a Budget
Why you should visit:
✅ Gorgeous historic streets and parks – all free to explore
✅ Southern comfort food that won’t break the bank
✅ Laid-back coastal vibe perfect for a relaxing getaway
If you love slow travel, charming old towns, and a sprinkle of Southern charm, Savannah is fantasy come true – and it’s perfect for cheap travel USA. You can stroll along its world-famous Historic District on foot (or bike), ogle moss-draped oak trees, and relax in beautiful squares like Forsyth Park.
One of my favorite things to do in Savannah? Just walk. The city is made for wandering. With cobblestone streets, old mansions, and little cafes around every corner, you’ll never be bored.
Feeling hungry? Head to Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room or a local soul food spot for generous portions of fried chicken, mac & cheese, and collard greens – all for under $15.
Bonus: Savannah is one of the few cities in the US that allows open-container drinking on the street, so grab a to-go beverage and enjoy a sunset stroll along the river.
Quick Budget Travel Tips for the USA
To make your cheap travel USA journey even smoother, here are a few tips:
🛏️ Skip hotels – Use Airbnb or budget hostels whenever possible
🚉 Use public transport – Especially in bigger cities, it saves you a ton
🌮 Eat local – Food trucks and hole-in-the-wall restaurants often have the best meals at the best prices
🎟️ Look for free events – Concerts, festivals, outdoor movie nights—you’ll be surprised what you can find for $0
Final Thoughts
Traveling in the US doesn’t have to mean luxury hotels, five-star dinners, and riding around in Uber cars nonstop. In truth, some of the best memories are made when you’re being a little cheap.
Whether you’re dancing to jazz in New Orleans, getting your taco and sunshine fix in Austin, or walking the quaint streets of Savannah, bargain travel USA isn’t just an option – it’s amazing.
So, is one (or all) of these cities on your bucket list? I sure hope so!
Thanks for popping in to read this guide to Cheap Travel USA. Planning a future trip? Take a gander at some of my other blog posts for some more frugal ideas.
👉 See all the travel guides here
Happy travels and stay curious until next time 😊
/ Thomas