United States of America Travel Budget - Visit United States of America on a Budget or Travel in Style

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Heading to the United States of America? As a large and diverse destination, it's renowned for Hollywood in Los Angeles, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, and the Statue of Liberty in NYC. Our travel cost guide will help you plan an epic vacation without overspending. We've got all the essentials, from average hotel rates to dining and entertainment costs. All of the travel expenses are from real travelers, so you can travel smart and have an amazing trip. So, whether you're exploring the energy of Miami, eating the delicious cuisine in Las Vegas, or admiring the small town charm of Vail, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip, all while staying within budget.

How much does it cost to travel to the United States of America?

You should plan to spend around $324 per day on your vacation in the United States of America. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $96 on meals
  • $46 on local transportation
  • $262 on hotels

A one week trip to the United States of America for two people costs, on average, $4,536. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $324
  • One Week Per person
    $2,268
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $4,536
  • One Month Per person
    $9,720
  • One Week For a couple
    $4,536
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $9,072
  • One Month For a couple
    $19,440
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to the United States of America cost?

A one week trip to the United States of America usually costs around $2,268 for one person and $4,536 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to the United States of America on average costs around $4,536 for one person and $9,072 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in the United States of America will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to the United States of America on average costs around $9,720 for one person and $19,440 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




How much do package tours cost in the United States of America?

Organized tours are usually more expensive than independent travel, but offer convenience and peace of mind that your trip has been planned by a travel expert.

The average price for an organized tour package in the United States of America is $399 per day. While every tour varies by total price, length, number of destinations, and quality, this is the daily average price based on our analysis of available guided tours.



Independent Travel

Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Is the United States of America expensive to visit?

The United States of America is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.

Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, the United States of America is very expensive compared to the other countries. It is in the top 10% of countries in North America for its travel costs. There are only a few countries as expensive or more expensive than the United States of America in the region.

Whether you're looking for luxury or traveling on a budget, the United States of America has an array of accommodation and activities to suit your needs. There are budget accommodation options like hostels in Los Angeles, San Diego, and New York City, but if you're looking for a higher-end stay, luxury hotels are available, as well as mid-range choices for families or couples.

the United States of America offers a luxury experience, but you can still keep your spending in check with strategies like eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities.

On average, budget travelers spend $121 per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $324 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $923 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to the United States of America.

For more details, see Is the United States of America Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to the United States of America?

The average United States of America trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these United States of America travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to the United States of America cost?

the United States of America on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy 		$50 $131 $358
Local Transportation 1 $18 $46 $122
Food 2 $37 $96 $253
Entertainment 1 $18 $55 $191
Alcohol 2 $5-16 $13-40 $35-105
From real travelers - How these numbers are calculated
Idaho Idaho

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Having realistic expectations when it comes to your budget is crucial. A lot of people claim to be "budget" travelers. Many plan their trip thinking they can manage on just $121 a day like a shoestring backpacker. But the truth is, most aren't comfortable with roughing it on a trip. Reflect on what you truly enjoy and how you've traveled in the past. Are you a fan of resorts and comfortable hotels, or do you prefer the price range offered by hostels but with limited amenities? How important is dining in nice restaurants to you? And how do you like to get around? Your answers will greatly influence your overall travel budget.

Who Exactly is a Budget Traveler?

You may have heard that it's possible to visit the United States of America for around $121 a day, but if you want to maintain any level of comfort, you should be ready to spend considerably more.

While budget travelers might manage to travel on that amount, it often means staying in hostel dormitories, eating at budget restaurants or fast food joints, using public transport or walking, and sticking to free attractions.

Fortunately, the United States of America has an abundance of hostels, particularly in Los Angeles, San Diego, and New York City.

Could You Be an Average Traveler?

Couples or families on vacation will probably choose mid-range hotels, popular dining spots, and visits to major museums and attractions that charge entry fees. Most visitors will want to go to the Strip in Las Vegas, Pearl Harbor in Honolulu, or the French Quarter in New Orleans on their trip. Since most activities have a cost, you should realisticly plan for your budget to be closer to $324 per person, per day.

With so many hotels and vacation rentals in the United States of America, you'll have no trouble finding a place that suits your needs. If you're splitting the cost with a partner, friend, or kids, you'll be able to reduce the daily per-person costs, too. You'll find plenty of family-friendly areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco where hotels and restaurants cater to little ones. Consider staying at The Inn on Siesta Key in Siesta Key or Croad Vineyards - The Inn in Paso Robles for a kid-friendly experience. For a romantic retreat in Valle Crucis, couples will love Mast Farm Inn. Find more hotel options for families and couples in our hotel costs guide for the United States of America here.

What Luxury Travel Looks Like

If you're planning a vacation with all the finer things in life, prepare for a budget that can reach $923 per day. If you want upscale hotels, world-class dining, premium excursions, and private drivers, this will put you firmly in the "luxury" category. Some of the more high-priced destinations include Moab and Key West. Also, make the most of your time by booking a high-end multi-day tour such as Parks & Canyons Spectacular - offered by Globus.

Accommodation Budget in the United States of America

In the United States of America, the wide range in hotel prices might surprise you. There's a big difference between budget and luxury options, especially during the busy season when prices are much higher. If you visit during the low season, you can find better deals, and booking early often helps with savings as well.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in the United States of America for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $262. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $131 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.


  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $131
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $262

Hotels in the United States of America

Looking for a hotel in the United States of America? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in the United States of America

The average hotel room price in the United States of America based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $171 in the low season and $319 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

New York City
New York City is a large city that is one of the top tourist destinations in the United States of America. During the peak summer months hotels can fill up early, so plan to book well in advance. In New York City, the average hotel price is $175 in the low season and $327 in the busy season. Four star hotels cost on average $207 to $387. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $44 for a dorm bed. For hotels, a few of the best options here include Merrion Row Hotel and Public House for $228 and Blakely New York Hotel starting at $182. Since travelers often stay up to seven days, it's essential to look for a comfortable lodging option in a desirable location if you plan to explore for a bit.

Los Angeles
There's a wide range of hotel prices in Los Angeles. You can expect to spend anywhere from $103 to $608 depending on your budget and needs. Most visitors to Los Angeles stay up to seven days, so you'll want to find a comfortable and convenient place if you're staying for a while. Also, a great hotel option is The Culver Hotel that runs about $293 per night. You can expect to pay around $35 for a dorm bed if you decide to stay in a hostel.

Chicago
As one of the more popular destinations, Chicago offers a variety of hotel options at a range of prices. You'll find typical hotel prices from $114 in the low season to $457 during the busy peak season. As many travelers stay up to five days, you should make sure to find a comfortable place in a good location if you're planning to explore for a while. If you're looking for some good options, you should check out Viceroy Chicago for $299 and The Gwen a Luxury Collection Hotel Michigan Avenue Chicago starting at $281. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $29 for a dorm bed.


Recommended Properties


Local Transportation Budget in the United States of America

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $46 per person, per day, on local transportation in the United States of America. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in the United States of America is significantly more than public transportation.


  • Local Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $46
Local Transportation Tips

In the United States of America, public transit options are somewhat limited in many cities, especially if you're not heading to San Francisco. It's advisable to rent a car or arrange for a form of transportation in advance, such as a guided tour. However, keep in mind that this might affect your overall trip budget.

Navigating larger cities with a car, such as Los Angeles and San Francisco, can be quite challenging due to their busy and crowded nature. Parking often comes with a hefty price tag, and traffic can be a hassle. By skipping the rental car and opting for public transit or walking, you can save money and enjoy the city more easily.

If you're bringing a car to a larger city, be sure to inquire about parking at your hotel beforehand. You may need to pay for parking either at the hotel or at a nearby garage. Finding a spot further from the city could save you some money.


Recommended Services

What did other people spend on Local Transportation?

Listed below are some transit expenses in the United States of America, taken from reports by other travelers. These costs offer a snapshot of transportation prices in the city to give you an idea of what to expect. Keep in mind that your costs may differ, especially if you opt for more expensive options like taxis, which typically cost more than public transportation.


  • Lightrail from Airport (for 2)
    $5.50
  • Roundtrip Ferry to Bainbridge Island (for 2)
    $15
  • 24 hrs Deuce Bus
    $7.00
  • Taxi from Airport to the Strip
    $36
  • Bus Ride
    $1.00
  • Bus Ride
    $2.00
  • MARTA Subway Ticket
    $4.00
  • Subway Daily Pass
    $9.00


Food Budget in the United States of America

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in the United States of America can vary significantly, the average cost of food in the United States of America is $96 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.


  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $96

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in the United States of America is around $96 ($96) per person, with previous travelers spending from $37 to $253. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in the United States of America are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $17 to $29
  • Lunch: $14 to $48
  • Dinner: $34 to $77
  • Coffee: $9
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $15

American cuisine is very region specific. Burgers, steaks and pasta can be found almost anywhere, but if you really want to try something good, seek out the local specialties. Clam chowder in the northeast, salmon in the northwest and barbecue in Texas are all recommended. There's a diversity of food choices throughout the country, and most cities have a good selection of local restaurants to choose from. You'll also find major chains almost anywhere with Ruby Tuesdays, Cracker Barrel, and Chick-fil-a being some of the favorites.

Macaroni and Cheese: Every child in America was raised on this staple, and now you can find it at most mid-range restaurants. Some high end restaurants have created "gourmet" versions, but this comfort food is best enjoyed in its simple, classic form.

Hamburgers: Also an American staple, hamburgers were first made famous by fast food chains. Hamburgers today range from cheap and classic to gourmet. For the best version, find yourself a diner and enjoy some fries on the side. Another American classic is to grill up a good hamburger on an outdoor grill.

Steak: Beef is an American classic, so find a steakhouse, which are prevalent in most cities, and order it to your liking. It's most often served with potatoes on the side, but you can really have it any way you like. There are some popular, expensive, steakhouses that serve only the highest quality meat. These places are typically a-la-carte with sides not included in the price.

Popular Culinary Destinations

The United States of America is an extremely popular culinary destination, and the cuisine is enjoyed around the world. Many visitors come just for the food. Some of the best foodie cities include Los Angeles, San Francisco, and NYC.

Los Angeles
Los Angeles is not to be missed because of it's amazing cuisine. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

San Francisco
San Francisco is well known for its food scene. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

NYC
Many visitors enjoy sampling the different restaurants in NYC. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

Miami
If you're a traveling foodie, you'll enjoy your time in Miami. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

Las Vegas
Las Vegas is one of the best culinary destinations in the United States of America. It has become famous for it's all-you-can-eat buffets, which you'll find in almost every hotel along the strip. To fully experience the sin of gluttony, head for one of the more luxurious hotels, which have the more expensive, but also higher quality buffets. Celebrity chefs have also opened many five star restaurants around town that you must try.

Food & Dining Tips

In larger cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, or NYC, you can be savvy about your dining expenses by choosing to eat at nicer restaurants during lunch instead of dinner. Many restaurants in tourist spots or business areas have lunch specials that offer smaller, less expensive versions of their dinner menus. If you do some research, you might even find a complete multi-course gourmet meal at a reasonable price. Then, you can enjoy a light meal in the evening.

If you're visiting a popular resort area like Miami, Las Vegas, or Honolulu, you'll often find that the resorts provide a range of dining options, so it's crucial to know the specifics regarding pricing. Some resorts offer full board, which covers all meals, while others might have half board, which includes just two meals. Additionally, some resorts feature on-site restaurants that may or may not be part of the package. It's also worth noting that drinks might be included, but this varies. Make sure to check with the resort in advance to understand which meals and drinks you'll need to pay for.

If you're spending a week or more in Los Angeles, San Francisco, or NYC, it's worth considering an apartment or vacation rental with a kitchen for families or groups. This way, you can cook meals with budget-friendly groceries instead of constantly dining out.

If you're on a trip with children, keep an eye out for restaurants that have a childrens' menu. This can be a great money saver since those dishes are usually priced lower. Some restaurants may not include kids' options on their menus, so it's best to ask the waiter beforehand.

Many hotels have breakfast included in the room rate, while some charge for it separately. The cost and quality of breakfast can differ from hotel to hotel. Being aware of this ahead of time can help you choose whether to enjoy the hotel buffet or opt for a more affordable option at a nearby bakery or café.

Instead of purchasing drinks everywhere, bring a water bottle along. It's also an eco-conscious choice.

If you're planning to take a tour, make sure you know which meals are included beforehand. You might be on the hook to pay for some of the food yourself which can add to your budget.

If you want to experience the culture in the United States of America, a food tour or cooking class is a great way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:

  • All-Inclusive Downtown Portland Food Tour for $128 details
  • Premium Valle de Guadalupe Wine and Food Tour for $259 details
  • Greenwich Village Food Tour | Tasty Tours NYC for $79 details
  • Ultimate Chinatown Walking Food Tour in New York City for $109 details

Recommended

What did other people spend on Food?

Typical food prices in the United States of America, as reported by previous travelers, are outlined below. These costs offer a snapshot of what meals might cost in the city. Your personal expenses will vary depending on the type of dining experiences you choose and the dishes you order.


  • Lunch for Two
    $28
  • Lunch for 2
    $32
  • West Street Cafe (for 4)
    $70
  • Anglers Restaurant for Lunch
    $29
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (for 4)
    $55
  • Dinner for 2
    $30
  • Quick Lunch
    $12
  • Breakfast
    $26


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in the United States of America

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in the United States of America typically cost an average of $55 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.


  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $55
The Best Sightseeing Destinations

The United States of America is an extremely popular travel destination, and offers many visitors a chance to check off many places on their bucket list. Some of the most popular destinations in the United States of America include Los Angeles, San Francisco, and NYC.

Los Angeles
Los Angeles is a world-famous city with sprawling neighborhoods and a diverse population. In addition to being the home of Hollywood, the city also has many cultural neighborhoods and unique restaurants. Visitors can enjoy behind-the-scenes tours of production companies or wander down Hollywood Boulevard and check out the Walk of Fame. There are also many iconic beach areas including Venice Beach and Malibu.

San Francisco
San Francisco is a city that mixes incredible urban personality with striking natural beauty. It sits on the bay and makes full use of the many viewpoints provided by the hilly landscape. The city is a quirky and fun place that doesn't take itself too seriously. You'll find amazing urban hikes, award-winning restaurants, and diverse neighborhoods.

NYC
New York City is one of the most iconic cities in the United States. It is filled with its own energy and personality, and visitors will enjoy exploring the unique neighborhoods and seeing world-renowned landmarks. The city is divided into 5 boroughs, with most visitors spending the majority of their time in Manhattan. Manhattan has high skyscrapers, world class shopping, and countless entertainment options such that there's never a dull moment.

Miami
Miami is a vibrant coastal city that has a world-class nightlife scene, a melting pot culture, and diverse restaurants. The long sandy beaches are lined with high rise hotels and the harbors are filled with million dollar yachts.

Las Vegas
Las Vegas is an iconic destination with over-the-top resort hotels, elaborate casinos, grand shows, and a theatrical atmosphere. The city is a popular destination for bachelor and bachelorette parties. It's also a popular conference destination and considered to be a world class entertainment destination.

Sightseeing Tips

For those seeking the energy of a big city, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and NYC are some of your top choices. You'll discover a wealth of activities, rich culture, museums, and diverse restaurants throughout the area.

For a slower pace with small town charm, you'll want to check out Vail, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Bar Harbor. The charming atmosphere and quaint streets of these towns will help you relax and slow down for a while.

Among the most stunning and beautiful spots to explore in the United States of America are San Francisco, Oahu, and Kauai. These unforgettable locations are sure to leave you in awe and should definitely be on your must-visit list.

Winter sports are a big draw in the mountains, and if you're into skiing or snowboarding, you'll want to check out Vail, Park City Utah, and Beaver Creek. Just remember, these destinations can be on the expensive side in the winter months.

In the United States of America, you'll find countless beach getaways that draw crowds when the weather is nice. People come to unwind and enjoy the many fun activities. Among the top beaches are those around Los Angeles, Miami, and Honolulu.

Hiking is popular around the country, thanks to trails that offer awe-inspiring views, natural splendor, and a chance to stay active. Top destinations for hiking include Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Honolulu.

Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore the United States of America. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Chincoteague's Up The Bay Pony and Wildlife Tour by Boat for $65 details
  • Avi's Premium Dolphin Tour by Jet Ski for $275 details
  • Austin Good Vibes E-Bike Tours for $68 details
  • Guided Hobie Kayak Adventure: Enhanced Island Eco Experience! For $70 details

Recommended Activities

What did other people spend on Entertainment?

A few typical prices for sights, activities, and entry fees in the United States of America are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers to provide you with an idea how much you might need to spend. Your individual costs will vary based on which activities you do, which attractions or museums you visit, and how often you participate in free or low-cost activities.


  • Riverboat Cruise
    $70
  • French Quarter City Tour
    $100
  • Six Flags for 2
    $96
  • Acadia National Park Entrance Fee
    $25
  • Sunset Cruise (for 4)
    $96
  • Children's Museum (for 4)
    $32
  • Patriots Point (for 2)
    $60
  • Zoo & Aquarium Tickets (2)
    $75


Nightlife Budget in the United States of America

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $27 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in the United States of America per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.


  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $27
Popular Nightlife Destinations

The United States of America is a must-visit for nightlife lovers, as it attracts crowds from around the world eager to experience its legendary scene. Top nightlife cities include Los Angeles, NYC, and Miami.

Los Angeles
When the sun goes down, the party picks up in Los Angeles. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

NYC
The nightlife scene is a highlight for many young visitors in NYC. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

Miami
Nightlife in Miami is not to be missed. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

Las Vegas
If partying is a priority while you're traveling, then you'll want to visit Las Vegas. From posh dance clubs to glitzy cocktail bars, its nightlife scene puts this city on the map. Many people forget to sleep here, whether they're gambling away their money, checking out a world class show, or partying in one of the many clubs.

New Orleans
New Orleans is one of the best nightlife destinations in the United States of America. The nightlife scene is at its best during Mardi Gras. But year-round you'll find Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, spring breakers, and anyone who wants to enjoy a crazy time heads to New Orleans. New Orleans is a destination that attracts partiers any time of the year, and the French Quarter is the place to be if you're looking for a party.

Nightlife Tips

Sure, nightlife is a top travel activity, but if you want to save money, reducing how much you drink is a great way to start.

Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in the United States of America. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:

  • Memphis Signature Guided Brewery Tour for $69 details
  • Distillery District Food & History Tour in Lexington for $99 details
  • Party Bus Dive Bar Bus Crawl l for $40 details
  • The Brew Bus: Austin Brewery Tour with Live Band for $125 details

Recommended

What did other people spend on Alcohol?

Typical prices for alcohol and nightlife in the United States of America are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the drink prices in the United States of America. However, your individual costs will vary based on your travel style, how often you drink alcoholic beverages, and how much you order. Keep in mind that if you want to save money on your trip, cutting out alcohol can make one of the biggest impacts on your travel budget.


  • Beer
    $7.30
  • A Night of Shots
    $36
  • Drinks at Camp Fire (for 2)
    $40
  • Evening at a Bar
    $32
  • Camping
    $20


Travel Costs Last Updated: Nov 6, 2024
Chicago’s Elevated Train Chicago’s Elevated Train

Budgeting and Travel Tips

  • the United States of America is a diverse country geographically. Depending on where you go, the peak season may change. Places like NYC, Miami, and Honolulu are all popular destinations during the winter months while Los Angeles, San Francisco, and NYC see the most tourists during the summer months. These peak times are when prices will be at their highest. If you hope to avoid the crowds and higher costs, then it's better to visit during the shoulder or low seasons.
  • Locations like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and NYC are particularly popular with tourists, which means you should anticipate larger crowds and higher costs during peak times. Expect to encounter busy attractions with lengthy lines, sold-out tickets, and increased prices. In all areas, especially these popular destinations, try to make your reservations well in advance, ideally several months ahead.
  • In some destinations, it's pretty common for stay for an entire week or more. Places like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and NYC are perfect for week-long getaways, and many families, especially those with kids, prefer to book an apartment or vacation rental. This option gives you more space to relax, plus handy amenities like a kitchen, which makes it easier to save a bit of cash while still enjoying a comfortable stay.
  • This is a country that attracts plenty of backpackers and young budget travelers. If that's your crowd, you'll find tons of hostels and budget-friendly activities in many places. If you're young and looking to meet up with likeminded people, then Grand Canyon, Glacier National Park, and Sequoia National Park are great options where you can stay cheap, meet other travelers, and have a great time.
  • Many couples love heading to the United States of America for a fun or laid-back honeymoon. Maybe you're looking for a romantic retreat or just a thrilling weekend adventure. Whatever your vibe, this country offers countless fantastic places to discover with your partner. Some of the most romantic locations include Los Angeles, NYC, and Las Vegas.
  • A vacation to this country is a hit with many families. There are countless great places suited for family getaways, such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Honolulu. Children will enjoy a range of fun activities, and adults will also find themselves well entertained throughout their stay.
  • Countless travelers prefer a laid-back vacation at a resort, where they can relax without the need for extensive planning or traveling. Luxury resorts offer a perfect blend of soothing accommodations, fun activities, and excellent dining options. If you're in search of a tranquil haven to pamper yourself in luxury, then Miami, Las Vegas, or Honolulu is the place to be. Here, you'll find some of the best resorts that the United States of America has to offer.
  • If you're an outdoor lover, you'll be thrilled with the natural beauty that the United States of America has in store. There are tons of chances to escape the hustle and bustle and dive into some stunning landscapes. Be sure to check out must-see spots like Grand Canyon, Glacier National Park, and Sequoia National Park.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Many visitors come for the country's world class skiing and snowboarding areas, such as Vail, Park City Utah, and Beaver Creek. These activities can be expensive and there's not much wiggle room to help you save money. Lift tickets, ski equipment, and peak-season hotel rooms will be a major part of your trip's budget. Also, double check your travel insurance to make sure it covers everything.
  • Many travelers flock to Big Island of Hawaii, Honolulu, and Oahu for their fantastic scuba diving spots. It's an activity that can get pricey, with dive trips, gear rentals, and boat rides making up a large portion of your travel expenses. Allso, be sure to review your travel insurance to confirm it covers accidents and other mishaps.
  • The United States of America is known for its tipping culture, so be prepared to tip upwards of 20% when dining out.
  • The United States of America is a large country with a lot to see, so you can either spend more time visiting many different areas, or spend less time concentrating on one smaller region. If you try to see everything in a shorter trip, you'll spend significantly more money on long-distance transportation. The faster you move and the further you travel during your trip, the more money you'll spend due to these increased transportation costs.
  • If you have young children with you, using a private car or taking a taxi/Uber can make things smoother than dealing with public transport. That said, it does come at a higher cost.

  • In destinations like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and NYC, it can be tough to find a hotel room that fits a family of four. Expect to either opt for a larger hotel or pay for two rooms to make sure everyone has enough space. Often, hotels outside of the city center are larger and more modern.


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Traveling in the United States of America
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The United States of America is one of the largest and most diverse countries in the world. It's geography varies dramatically between the two coasts. It's city's each have their own feel and culture and the small towns hold on to traditional mindset that is often missed by the casual tourist. The country is bordered to the north by Canada and to the south by Mexico. Because of its large size, it has varying climates that range from bitterly cold, to subtropical. There are a variety of reasons to come to the U.S., but one of the most popular is the national parks. The United States has a well established and impressive national park system. The parks vary in nature from the Grand Canyon, which is impressive not only in its size, but also its colors, to Hatteras National Seashore on the eastern coast of North Carolina. Alternatively, if you're looking to visit some interesting cities, there are many options. You can go star spotting in Los Angeles, or check out a Broadway show in New York.

The large size of the country makes visiting it somewhat challenging. The U.S. has a very car dependent culture and you will likely have to rent a car for at least part of your trip, particularly if you hope to explore any of the national parks. Some of the larger cities have decent public transportation systems, but the intercity transportation system is lacking. If you hope to explore more than one region of the country it is advisable that you take a plane flight. Flights can be reasonably priced and there are a handful of domestic airlines that serve the country. For the best deals travel during the week and book your tickets well in advance. While there may be some good last minute deals, these are in no way guaranteed and if your trip lacks flexibility then it's better to plan ahead.

At A Glance
  • The U.S. is best visited during a series of several different trips. Because it is so large and difficult to travel around, you'll do better if you visit one region at a time. Some people choose to do a highlights tour and see New York, San Francisco and perhaps one national park. A better option is to pick one part of the country and explore it in more depth.

  • If you want to avoid renting a car, the best area to visit is the northeast. There are trains and buses that connect the major cities, so it is possible to travel around without renting a car or taking a flight. The larger cities in these areas also have decent public transportation systems so it's easy to travel within the city without a car as well.

  • One of the best seasons to visit this country is during the fall months. In many areas the leaves are changing color and the landscape is beautiful. Children are also back in school so the crowds are less and the prices are usually lower.

  • You'll find plenty of great beaches on both coasts. If you're hoping to see a dramatic and rocky coast line, surf in the largest waves, and enjoy urban beaches, then the west coast is your best option. If you're looking for more natural beaches, warmer water for swimming, and more traditional towns, then head to the east coast.

  • If you're hoping to visit any beaches then it is best if you avoid college spring break periods. These breaks usually fall between early March and late April and can be a busy and expensive time to be at the beach. Unless you specifically want to take part in the partying then your best option is to visit at a different time.

Related:

Looking for a party hostel in Hawaii or Miami? Traveling alone to LA or New Orleans? Want a budget hostel in NYC?

Top Tourist Attractions

Golden Gate Bridge: This beautiful bridge in San Francisco is even more striking because its bright color is contrasted by the backdrop of green hills and the blue bay. Many people rent bikes for the day and spend some time biking across the bridge and then taking the ferry back to the city.

Grand Canyon: One of the most popular national parks in the US, this canyon is most beautiful when it's lit up at sunrise or sunset. It can get quite hot during the summer months, but if you're here during the fall or spring the weather will be ideal.

Broadway: This is where you can catch the best shows in New York City. You can get discount tickets around town the morning of so do some research in advance and it'll cut down on the cost.



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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.


Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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