I’m a Travel Expert: 7 Trips Frugal Travelers Are Booking for the Rest of 2024

If you’re still thinking about taking a trip this year but don’t want to empty your savings account to do it, you’re in luck. There are quite a few places worth visiting that are also relatively inexpensive to visit.

GOBankingRates spoke with travel experts Mercedes Zach and Pamela Holt about where frugal travelers are going this year. Keeping in mind that actual costs will vary based on factors like accommodation choices, the number of people going, individual preferences, and airfare — international or domestic — here’s what they told us. You can also check out some frugal habits of experienced travelers here.

Montenegro

• Estimated daily cost per person: $112
• Estimated weekly cost for two: $1,568

“A somewhat underrated budget getaway for the summer months is Montenegro — a beautiful Balkan country with rugged mountains, villages, and towns of the Renaissance era, as well as a breathtaking coastline of the Adriatic Sea,” said Zach, frugal travel expert at Asaptickets, part of Trevolution Group. “The weather there is very nice and warm in summer, and it is not too humid, which makes it a great place to enjoy a relaxed vacation by the beach.”

Unlike more popular European destinations, Montenegro tends to be quieter and more affordable. If you’re not sure where to go there, Zach had a few suggestions, including:

• Budva Riviera
• Coastal city of Ulcinj
• Island of Sveti Stefan
• Herceg Novi beach town
• Historical capital city of Podgorica
• Coastal town of Tivat

As for activities, here’s what Zach suggested:

“During the day, enjoy sailing, rowing, swimming, birdwatching, hiking or cycling to olive groves and Lušti villages, and at night, immerse into beautiful sunsets from the picturesque shores, discovering local tastes and culture characterized by a perfect blend of traditional and modern for every taste and budget.”

Montréal, Canada

• Estimated daily cost per person: $210
• Estimated weekly cost for two: $2,945

While a bit pricier, Montreal makes the list for many reasons — including its proximity to the U.S. Those who live on the East Coast, particularly those residing in or near New York, could save quite a bit on airfare by driving.

“One of my favorite affordable destinations that’s becoming increasingly popular among travelers this summer is Montréal, Canada…This charming city has an undeniable European energy and is an excellent alternative to those seeking a Paris vacation without the crowds that the Olympics are predicted to bring,” said Holt, travel expert and executive producer and host of Amazon Prime’s “Me, Myself & The World: The Art of Solo Travel.”

Costa del Sol (Southern Spain)

• Estimated daily cost per person: $127
• Estimated weekly cost for two: $1,776

The Costa del Sol is another beautiful destination for frugal travelers, particularly places like Marbella and Malaga.

“Malaga [is] among the cheapest areas along the coastline. Besides, almost everything is within walking distance over there and the weather is nice and warm all year round,” said Zach.

In terms of affordability, Zach gave a few tips for sites and attractions:

• Take advantage of reduced entry rates for monuments and museums if you’re a pensioner or a student under 26.
• Get combined tickets to popular sites to save money.
• Visit the Alcazaba Fortress and Gibralfaro Castle for free after 2 p.m. on Sundays.

“When it comes to accommodation in Malaga, I would recommend looking into Airbnb options, as there are plenty of reasonably-priced deals available for the summer months,” she added. “And to save some extra money on meals, look for a menu of the day, as there are lots of venues where you can enjoy the first course, mains, dessert or coffee plus drink and bread from €8. Likewise, Malaga has some great restaurants where you can enjoy a gourmet 3-course lunch for less than €20.”

Sonoma, California

• Estimated daily cost per person: $219
• Estimated weekly cost for two: $3,073

Many USA destinations seem pricier on the surface, but for frugal travelers who already live in the general region and don’t have to pay for flights, they’re still quite attractive.

“For travelers who have been dreaming of Italy but can’t make the trek to bask under the Tuscan sun this year, look no further than Sonoma, California’s scenic wine country,” said Holt. “This region boasts rolling hills, lavender fields, and Tuscan-inspired wineries like Azari Vineyards, Ferrari-Carano Winery, and Jacuzzi Family Vineyards.”

Holt specifically recommended planning your trip during Crush season, or harvest season, which runs from late August through early October. That’s when the vineyards are ripe with grapes ready for the harvest.

Mexico

• Estimated daily cost per person: $131
• Estimated weekly cost for two: $1,827

For frugal travelers who want to take an international trip but don’t want to go too far, Zach suggested Mexico.

“The surf town of Puerto Escondido in the state of Oaxaca is famous for its untouched beaches, bohemian vibe and plenty of things to see and do around. It offers you everything from snorkeling, swimming among the marine life, seeing dolphins in their natural habitat, trying out sport fishing, releasing newborn turtles and taking surf lessons to exploring the nearby beaches,” she said.

You can find inexpensive accommodations throughout, such as the Casa de Olas Boutique Hotel.it costs about $85 a night for a double room, Zach added. Meals out are also affordable — roughly $5 to $10 per person.

Utah

• Estimated daily cost per person: $246
• Estimated weekly cost for two: $3,442

Another popular trip for frugal travelers who also love nature, according to Zach, is Utah. ITs home to some impressive sites, including Zion Canyon, Canyonlands, Bryce Canyon, and Antelope Island State Park.

If you’re looking for some free or low-cost activities, Zach suggested Utah Olympic Park, Utah State Capitol Building, Liberty Park, and the Utah Museum of Fine Arts. There are also often outdoor concerts to enjoy.

Salt Lake City is also worth the trip — and not just because of the culture, diverse cuisines, and natural beauty.

“Downtown is tourist-friendly and walkable, which means that you don’t need to spend a ton of money on public transportation or taxis,” said Zach. “High-season apartments start at around $100 a night for an entire place, or if you’re a solo traveler, hostel dorms are available for as low as $27.”

Hanoi, Vietnam

• Estimated daily cost per person: $48
• Estimated weekly cost for two: $668

While you will most likely have to factor in international airfare, Vietnam is one of the most affordable destinations for frugal travelers this year.

“Travelers continue to seek destinations that will give them the most bang for their buck, which is why destinations across Southeast Asia have become increasingly popular over the past few years,” said Holt. “One of my favorite summer destinations is Hanoi, Vietnam.”

“Hanoi is especially great for adventurous foodies — be sure to try the Vietnamese street food, like Hanoian pho and beer, deep fried fermented pork with a side of pigeon, and the original egg coffee,” she continued. “A bonus for travel to Vietnam is that you can explore neighboring countries like Thailand and Cambodia very easily and inexpensively while using your round-trip flight from Hanoi or Saigon.”

More From GOBankingRates