26 Budget-Friendly Family Trips: Affordable Travel Destinations, Ideas, & Money-Saving Tips

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Are you trying to plan one of the best cheap family vacations? These 23 affordable family travel destinations for 2023 are perfect for budget-friendly trips the whole family will love.

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Between flights, food, hotels, and activities… family vacations can be pretty pricey. But you don’t need to go into serious debt just to take your family on a nice vacation.

Here are some really affordable family-friendly vacation ideas the whole family will enjoy.

Affordable Travel Destinations

1 – Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Coast

Myrtle beach is a gorgeous stretch of land on the coast of South Carolina that is both family and budget family. Affordable condos (with full kitchens!) line the beach. And there are plenty of activities to keep the family busy from parasailing to banana boats and even an amusement park.

Check out: Myrtle Beach Surf Lessons

2 – Caribbean Cruise

Cruises are actually more affordable than most people think. And with food included and on-ship activities for kids, a cruise to the Caribbean can be both a very affordable family vacation and very kid friendly. Not to mention fun for parents with free daycare on board.

Keep Reading: Is It Worth Going On A Cruise With Kids? A Family-Friendly Travel Guide

3 – Cozumel, Mexico

Cozumel is an island located near Cancun and has a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere than other cities in Mexico. With tons of family-friendly, all-inclusive hotels lining the calm waters of the gulf coast, it’s a great beach vacation kids will love.

Best Cozumel Resort For Families: The Explorean Cozumel All Inclusive

4 – Sanibel Island, Florida

One of the quieter beaches in Florida, Sanibel Island is both gorgeous with its white sand beaches and also warmer waters because it’s located on the gulf side, close to Fort Myers. You can also find very affordable hotels up and down the coast.

Best Place To Stay On Sanibel Island: Island Inn

5 – San Diego, California

San Diego, California, is a top destination for cheap family vacations. The city offers a variety of free and low-cost attractions, making it perfect for budget-conscious families. Start your adventure at Balboa Park, where you can explore multiple museums and beautifully manicured gardens. The park is a cultural hub that offers something for everyone, from art enthusiasts to nature lovers.

Families can also enjoy San Diego’s many stunning beaches, such as La Jolla Cove and Coronado Beach. These beaches are perfect for a day of sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles. For a more adventurous outing, head to the San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park, where you can see a wide variety of animals and interactive exhibits that will captivate both kids and adults.

Best Family Resort on the Ocean in San Diego:Bahia Resort Hotel

6 – Yellowstone National Park

If you’re looking for something other than a beach vacation, check out Yellowstone. It’s so much more than just driving. You can go horseback riding or white water rafting. And your kids will love all the wildlife such as buffalo that walk right down the road.

Another great national park to visit is Bryce Canyon National Park, known for its unique geological features and activities like horseback riding through the canyon.

Best Place To Stay In Yellowstone:Elkhorn Cabins and Inn

7 – Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale is becoming one of the fastest-growing vacation spots in the U.S. You’ll find tons of resorts with water parks and activities for kids. And plenty of outdoor fun like kayaking, paddle boarding, or renting boats on one of the nearby lakes.

Most Family-Friendly Resort in Scottsdale: Hyatt Regency Scottsdale

8 – St. James Club Morgan Bay, St. Lucia

Want to go international? St. James Club Morgan Bay is all-inclusive and super family-friendly. Even though the island has many attractions, you can enjoy this Caribbean Island without having to leave your resort.

Book here for Best Deal: St. James’s Club Morgan Bay Resort – All Inclusive

9 – South Padre Island, Texas

With plenty to do in neighboring towns, you’ll find plenty of affordable beachfront accommodations and miles of beach for the kids to play at. Look for private Vrbo properties with full kitchens or resorts with included activities to keep the kids busy.

Best Place To Stay In South Padre Island: Isla Grand Beach Resort

10 – Wisconsin Dells

Located just outside Madison, Wisconsin, Wisconsin Dells has everything to keep the family busy. Visit one of the biggest waterparks, Noah’s Ark. Take a Duck boat tour. Play mini-golf or feed Deer at an outdoor sanctuary.

Most Exciting Resort in Wisconsin Dells: Polynesian Hotel Wisconsin Dells – Near Noah’s Ark

11 – The Jersey Shore, New Jersey

The Jersey shore is more than just a bad TV show. It’s miles and miles of small towns located on the shore of New Jersey. You’ll find plenty of hotels along the shore. There are miles of beaches to play at, restaurants, and a fun boardwalk with shops, games, and even amusement parks.

Where To Stay In Wildwood, New Jersey: The Starlux Hotel and Resort

12 – Hershey, Pennsylvania

Just a short drive from the Jersey shore, Hershey is home to Hershey Park, a chocolate-themed theme park and amusement park you could spend an entire day at. It’s also located near Philadelphia for some sightseeing there as well.

Best Resort Near Hershey Park: Bluegreen Vacations Suites at Hershey

13 – New York City

Because of the abundance of flights and hotels, it’s pretty easy to score a good deal in New York City. Especially if you visit in the off-season (Spring break is SUPER cheap). With all the museums and sightseeing, you can easily be kept busy. Or even spend an entire day at Central Park visiting the zoo and many gardens.

14 – Washington D.C.

With plenty of museums and outdoor spaces you can visit for free, Washington D. C. is a great choice as an affordable family travel destination. The National Mall serves as a central hub for free museums and national monuments, making it an excellent area for families to explore. Check out the Smithsonian Institute where you can see fun things like Dorothy’s red ruby slippers and more.

Best Washington D.C. Tour:Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour

15 – Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Home to the Great Smokey Mountain National Park which is free to visit. You can also go hiking, bike riding, camping, and horseback riding. There is plenty to do and Tennessee resorts and hotels are extremely affordable. Another great national park for family-friendly adventures is Zion National Park, where you can enjoy popular activities like hiking the iconic Narrows.

Best Family Resort in Gatlinburg:Bearskin Lodge on the River

16 – Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a fun and affordable family vacation if you are looking to experience another culture. Being a US territory, you don’t need passports and most of the hotels and resorts are very affordable. You can play on the beach or visit shops and museums.

Best San Juan Resort with Waterslides: El Conquistador Resort – Puerto Rico

17 – Red Rock Ranch, Wyoming

This fun dude ranch includes several activities from horseback riding trails, to fly fishing and hiking. You are also super close to the Grand Teton Mountains where you can find an abundance of family-friendly activities.

Best Family Tour: Half-Day Snake River Scenic Float Trip from Jackson

18 – Seattle, Washington

For a fun city experience, Seattle is a great place to take kids. Pike Market is free to walk around as are the many parks along the coast. Or take a family-friendly harbor cruise to see the city. There are tons of museums and aquariums to visit and all at very affordable prices.

19 – Minneapolis, Minnesota

Minneapolis is a fun place to visit in the summer months with lots of concerts and events happening around the city. Denver International Airport is a convenient starting point for families looking to explore nearby budget-friendly destinations. And you can’t pass up a chance to go to the world’s biggest mall, the Mall of America. You can spend an entire day here alone with its indoor amusement park. Or visit one of the many lakes in the area for some outdoor fun.

Best Deals on Family Resorts in Minneapolis search HERE!

20 – Sedona, Arizona

The beauty of Sedona is a favorite among adults and kids. With tons of outdoor activities like ATV rides, water activities, hiking, shopping, and some of the most unique scenery on earth… your entire family will love this affordable location for a family vacation.

Best Kid AND Dog Friendly Hotel in Sedona with Amazing Views: Sky Ranch Lodge

21 – Bar Harbor, Maine

Parents can enjoy a fresh seafood feast while kids will love all the outdoor activities at Acadia National Park. Free museums in Bar Harbor also offer budget-friendly cultural experiences for families. Check out a lobster boat tour or even go whale watching. Plenty of resorts here have included activities as well to keep kids busy.

Best Family-Friendly Hotel in Bar Harbor:Atlantic Oceanside Hotel 

22 – Alaskan Cruise

If you like the outdoors but the affordability of a cruise, check out an Alaskan Cruise. Royal Caribbean has an indoor pool on most of its ships and kids’ clubs. Food is included on the ship and most of the towns are free to walk around and explore.

Keep Reading: What Is An Alaskan Cruise Really Like?

23 – Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

If you’re considering a tropical vacation, Punta Cana is one of the most affordable family travel destinations. Almost every resort on this island is all-inclusive so you save money on both food and activities. And with the many pools and waterslides, you’ll never need to leave the resort.

Search Punta Cana Resorts HERE!

24 – Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a top destination for cheap family vacations, offering a mix of awe-inspiring natural beauty and budget-friendly activities. Start your visit at the Grand Canyon Village, where you can explore a museum, shops, and restaurants. The village provides a great introduction to the park’s history and geology.

Camping is another fantastic way to experience the Grand Canyon on a budget. The park offers several campgrounds with amenities like picnic tables and restrooms. For the more adventurous, consider backpacking or even whitewater rafting on the Colorado River. With so many activities to choose from, Grand Canyon National Park is an excellent choice for an unforgettable family vacation.

25 – Ocean City, MD

Ocean City, Maryland, is a fantastic destination for cheap family vacations, offering 10 miles of free beach access and a variety of affordable accommodations. Whether you choose a vacation rental or a budget-friendly hotel, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your family’s needs.

The town is home to several amusement and water parks, including Jolly Roger Amusement Park and Splashin’ Safari Water Park. These parks offer a day of fun for kids and adults alike, with rides, slides, and games to keep everyone entertained.

For those who love the outdoors, Ocean City offers a variety of hiking and biking trails. The Assateague Island National Seashore is a must-visit, where you can see wild horses and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. With its combination of beach fun and outdoor activities, Ocean City is an ideal spot for a family vacation.

26 – Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana

Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana is a top destination for cheap family vacations, offering a variety of free and low-cost attractions that will delight kids and parents alike. The resort features a water park, kids’ club, and character meet-and-greets, ensuring that your little ones are entertained throughout your stay.

Dining is a breeze with the resort’s many options, including a buffet and à la carte restaurants that cater to all tastes. For those who love the water, the resort offers activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding, providing plenty of opportunities for family fun.

With its combination of entertainment, dining, and outdoor activities, Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana is a fantastic choice for a memorable and affordable family vacation.

Affordable Family Travel: Money-Saving Tips

✔️ Book trips in the off-season if you can. New York City is half the cost if you visit in the spring or fall and avoid the summer crowds. Arizona is the cheapest in the summer and you can often find really good deals at that time.

✔️ Book early! You can usually find the best deals the earlier you book. But also keep an eye on prices after you book. Most resorts will honor any specials or deals they have even after you book.

✔️ Look for all-inclusive deals. Including food and drinks in your resort price will save you tons of money. And sometimes you can even bundle your flights to make them more affordable.

✔️ Use Credit card points. I have a Southwest Card to build flight points and Chase Sapphire for hotels and rental cars. I charge what I can and pay it off at the end of the month to avoid interest, but this builds points super fast!

✔️ Create a travel budget. It’s a good idea to set aside a certain amount for your family vacations but you can also tuck away small amounts of cash for spending money.

What Is A Good Budget For A Family Vacation?

The average family of four can expect to spend approximately $4500 on a 7-day vacation. While it is possible to spend less, it’s a good idea to use this number as your budget.

All vacations vary and will depend a lot on how far you need to travel. Airline tickets for a family of 4 alone can cost over $2000 on average so looking for cities you can visit within driving distance from your hometown will help save a significant amount of money.

Can A Family Go On Vacation For Under $500?

It can be tough but not impossible! Look for resorts or special deals in your own City. You can take a really nice staycation without the hassle and expense of travel fees.

Look for off-season times and sign up for mailing lists from nearby resorts to see when they are offering specials and deals.

Or consider a road trip! You can pack up the car and go to several fabulous places like Yosemite National Park, Yellowstone, or even Glacier National Park.

Affordable Accommodations

When planning a cheap family vacation, finding affordable accommodations is key. Here are some options to consider:

• Vacation rentals: Websites like Airbnb and VRBO offer a wide range of vacation rentals, from cozy apartments to spacious houses, at affordable prices. These rentals often come with full kitchens, allowing you to save money by preparing your own meals.
• Budget-friendly hotels: Chains like Motel 6 and Super 8 provide affordable rates and basic amenities, making them a great choice for budget-conscious travelers.
• Camping: For outdoor enthusiasts, camping is an excellent way to save money on accommodations. Many national parks and private campgrounds offer affordable rates and amenities like picnic tables and restrooms. Camping also provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy quality family time.

Free Attractions and Activities

When planning a cheap family vacation, incorporating free attractions and activities can help you stay within budget while still having a great time. Here are some options to consider:

• National parks: Many national parks offer free admission and a variety of activities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Parks like Yellowstone, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon provide endless opportunities for adventure and exploration.
• Museums: Many museums offer free admission on certain days of the week or month. Check the museum’s website for more information and plan your visit accordingly.
• Beaches: Many beaches offer free access and a variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Spending a day at the beach is a great way to relax and enjoy the outdoors without spending a lot of money.
• Hiking trails: Many hiking trails offer free access and a variety of scenery, including mountains, forests, and waterfalls. Hiking is a fantastic way to explore nature, get some exercise, and enjoy quality time with your family.

By incorporating these free attractions and activities into your itinerary, you can create a memorable and affordable family vacation that everyone will enjoy.

Conclusion: Affordable Travel Destinations & Tips

From the beach to the mountains, if you are looking for affordable family travel destinations, you came to the right place! T

his list is all you need to plan an amazing vacation that every member of your family will love. And you won’t have to go bankrupt doing it.

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