CheapTickets: Outdoor Adventure on a Budget
You want adventure but don’t want to empty your wallet for it. We get it. The great outdoors is calling, but you’re on a budget. No need to stay inside when there are so many ways to explore trails, campgrounds, beaches, rivers, and mountains without going broke. Grab your backpack and swimsuit because the thrill is out there waiting for you. We’ll share insider tips to make outdoor escapes doable for any budget – from scoring deals on rental gear to finding hidden gem campsites and hitting up off-the-grid locations that won’t cost you a dime. Get ready to rethink just how far your dollars can take you on an epic, affordable adventure. The wild unknown is closer than you think.
Plan Your Outdoor Adventure on a Budget With CheapTickets
Find Free or Low-Cost Activities
Some of the best outdoor adventures won’t cost you a dime. Go on a hike at a local nature preserve, have a picnic in the park, or bike around your neighborhood. If you want to get out of town, national parks often charge little or no entrance fee. Once there, you can go hiking, see gorgeous views, and spot wildlife in their natural habitat.
Camp for Cheap
Skip the expensive hotels and resorts and opt to camp instead. You’ll sleep under the stars for a fraction of the price. Public campgrounds typically charge between $10 to $30 a night. For an even more budget-friendly option, camp on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or National Forest land where fees are low or camping is free. All you need is a tent, sleeping bag, flashlight, food and you’re set for an outdoor getaway.
Try Affordable Water Sports
Popular summer activities like kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding don’t have to blow your budget. Rent equipment for under $50 a day or buy used gear and resell it when your trip is over. Look for lakes, rivers, and reservoirs that don’t charge launch or parking fees. While there, pack a picnic lunch and have a day of fun in the sun on the water without dropping a ton of cash.
With some searching, you can find exciting outdoor adventures that won’t break the bank. Get outside and enjoy activities close to home or venture further away. Either way, traveling on a budget will make your experience even sweeter knowing you didn’t overspend.
Top Tips for Affordable Outdoor Activities Like Hiking, Camping, and Water Sports
Go Camping
Camping is one of the most budget-friendly ways to spend time outside. You don’t need expensive gear—just pack a tent, sleeping bag, flashlight, and other basics. Public campgrounds usually only charge a small fee for a site, or you can camp for free in many national forests and BLM land.
Take a Hike
Hiking is a simple pleasure that costs next to nothing. All you need is a good pair of shoes, some comfortable clothes, and a backpack, and you’re ready to hit the trail. Check websites like AllTrails.com to find easy hiking trails in your area. State and national parks often have well-maintained trails with gorgeous scenery.
Enjoy Water Sports
If you live near a lake or ocean, take advantage of opportunities for affordable water activities like kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, or beach climbing. Rent gear for under $50 a day or buy used equipment to use whenever you want. Some lakes and rivers even have free recreational areas where you can launch small watercraft.
The great outdoors offers so many adventures that don’t require paying an arm and a leg. With some planning and budget-friendly choices, you’ll be enjoying hiking, camping, and watersports in no time without breaking the bank. The memories you make connecting with nature are priceless!
CheapTickets Recommends the Best Budget-Friendly Outdoor Destinations and Accommodations
State and National Parks
America’s state and national parks offer some of the best outdoor adventures for little to no cost. You can hike, bike, kayak, and camp while enjoying stunning natural scenery. Some of the most budget-friendly options include Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Zion National Park, and Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio. Most parks charge $10-$30 per vehicle for access and camping fees range from $10 to $50 per night.
Public Lands
In addition to designated parks, the U.S. has millions of acres of public lands open for recreation. National forests, grasslands, and recreation areas managed by the Bureau of Land Management offer free access for hiking, camping, fishing, and more. Check if permits or passes are needed for certain activities. Public lands are ideal for multi-day backpacking and camping trips on a budget.
Hostels
For cheap lodging, you can’t beat hostels. Many are located near outdoor attractions and offer private or shared rooms for $20-$50 per night. Some hostels provide amenities like communal kitchens, luggage storage, and recreation rooms. Popular budget-friendly hostel chains include Hostelling International, Freehand, and Hipcamp. You can also find highly-rated independent hostels on Hostelworld and Hostels.com.
Camping
If roughing is your style, camping is the most affordable way to enjoy the great outdoors. Tent sites at campgrounds typically range from $10 to $30 per night. For more comfort, consider renting an RV or trailer. National parks and nearby private campgrounds often have the best amenities and locations for outdoor access. If you don’t have your gear, you can rent tents, sleeping bags, camp stoves, and other equipment from retailers like REI and Outdoors Geek.
With stunning natural scenery and a variety of low-cost activities, the U.S. offers endless options for adventure on a budget. Armed with tips for saving on destinations, transportation, gear, food, and lodging, you can experience the thrill of the outdoors without draining your wallet.
