A vacation, whether it's an anniversary trip or a honeymoon, may sound priceless. But travel does come with a cost—and sometimes, it's a big one. If money feels like a roadblock to the romantic getaway of your dreams, know you have several alternative routes. Low-budget vacation ideas for couples allow you to get a change of scenery with some change to spare.
To be clear, cheap trips for couples aren't the same as "below-par." Some budget-friendly locales offer world-renowned beaches with sugary-soft sand, as well as all-inclusive resorts. In some cases, your dream vacation may not even require a flight. Most won't entail a long-haul flight. Couples who love to road trip may even have the chance to sightsee on their way to a destination and enjoy one-on-one time. From Europe's hidden gems to glistening Caribbean islands and domestic wonders, these cheap vacations for couples offer a wealth of romance and memories in the making.
Brainstorming couples trip ideas might be followed by a serious sticker shock. According to The Knot's 2022 Real Weddings Survey, couples spent an average of $5,100 on their honeymoon in 2021, with 61 percent dipping into their savings for the vacation. While the cost of a "cheap couples vacation" is relative, you may want to avoid putting a huge dent in your rainy-day fund to travel. These budget-friendly vacation ideas could do the trick without skimping on good times.
Best Overall Affordable Vacation for Couples: Mazatlán, Mexico
Best Affordable National Park Vacation: Glacier National Park, Montana
Best Affordable European Vacation: Prague, Czech Republic
Best Affordable Beach Vacation in the US: Destin, Florida
Best Affordable Caribbean Destination: Jamaica
Most Affordable Urban Vacation: Toronto, Canada
Best Affordable Destination for Food and Drink: Phuket, Thailand
Best Location for Affordable Accommodations: Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
Most Romantic Affordable Destination: Grenada
Best Affordable Location for Active Couples: Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Mazatlán, Mexico
A resort town along the Pacific Coast, Mazatlán epitomizes the idea of "a lot for a little." Couples of all stripes and energy levels will likely find something they love about the spot. Sandy shores make beach days an everyday possibility, and a 13-mile boardwalk—one of the longest in the world—is perfect for strolling hand in hand. While walking, couples can peruse souvenir stands or snag a snack. Another must: Plaza Machado's cobblestone streets feel straight out of a romance novel. Nightlife ensures the fun continues long after sunset, while posh resorts—some with suites that start at under $200 per night—make turning in early tempting.
Glacier National Park, Montana
A stunning romantic getaway doesn't necessarily require a passport. Some of the best cheap vacation ideas for couples are within the US. Exhibit A: Glacier National Park. The breathtaking glacier-carved peaks of Montana's Rocky Mountains are as photogenic as they come. More than 700 miles of hiking trails within the park offer routes for couples of all experience levels. Entrance fees vary by the season, but day passes typically cost $35. Couples who live within road-trip distance and want to make several voyages there can purchase an annual pass for $70. The park also waives fees a few times per year.
Prague, Czech Republic
Yes, Europe has its fair share of cheap trips for couples. Though a European vacation likely requires a flight with a three-figure price tag, couples can save once they reach Prague. Nicknamed The City of a Hundred Spires, top attractions are free to view, including Old Square, which graces many postcards. The historic square's Gothic churches and baroque buildings are more gorgeous in person and provide a medieval setting that history and architecture enthusiasts will adore. Some guided walking tours are free and hit multiple attractions like Prague Castle and Charles Bridge, allowing couples to learn about the city's history from a pro without spending a dime.
Destin, Florida
Luxury resorts in certain areas of Florida with direct beach access can carry four-figure price tags. Destin, however, is worth considering if you're willing to drive or walk a bit further from your bed to your beach chair. The Florida Panhandle destination has many public access points and parks with low daily fees. Some hotels cost less than $200 per night, especially outside of the peak summer season. If you are traveling during the summer, know this: The Appalachian Quartz sand at Henderson Beach State Park doesn't get too hot to walk on, meaning you can blissfully dip your toes in the sand.
Jamaica
Unlike some ritzy Caribbean locales, prices in Jamaica often match its laid-back atmosphere. All-inclusive resorts include meals and perks like the use of water sport equipment, not only saving couples money but also stress. The surroundings are as rich as they come—expect pristine white-sand beaches, breathtaking waterfalls, Blue Mountain vistas and lush tropical greenery at every turn. Plus, Creole cuisine is sure to spice up dinner dates. Jamaica is prone to hurricane season and spring breakers, so visiting between January and March is ideal (especially for American couples with four seasons).
Toronto, Canada
Northeasterners can reach Toronto by car, ticking off central and upstate New York spots like Woodstock, Syracuse and the bucket list-worthy Niagara Falls along the way. Once in Toronto, much of the city is easy to explore by foot, saving couples money on transportation. Browse shops or grab a bite to eat in the Distillery District. Later in your stay, snag fresh meats and pastas to use in dinner for two at your home rental at the iconic St. Lawrence Market. During the NHL season, a trip to see the Maple Leaves play will give couples a taste of just how much Canadians love their hockey.
Phuket, Thailand
A stunning escape by the crystal-clear waters of the Andaman Sea, Phuket offers couples a chance to taste authentic Thai cuisine, like spring rolls and kung siap. Though southern Thailand's cuisine tends to be spicier than its neighbors to the north, Phuket is known for milder flavors, making it more accessible to all sorts of foodies. Lively night markets and street food allow couples to save while taking a bite out of the local fare and uncovering other unique goods. Cooking classes set the stage for memorable at-home dinner dates for years to come. Perhaps the biggest "budget" expenditure couples will want to account for when traveling to this southern Thailand destination is the time—expect a flight of 20+ hours from New York or California.
Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
A stay at a lauded food and wine hotspot like Napa or Sonoma is likely to carry a four-figure price tag—perhaps per night for a resort. In Coeur d'Alene, a spot known for its nature trails and underrated vino scene, spa resorts have rooms that run for under $400 per night—sometimes under $200. Accommodations aside, the spot is full of natural beauty courtesy of the expansive Lake Coeur d'Alene. Lakeside parks with picnic tables allow couples to brown bag it with a view.
Grenada
Grenada is somewhat of a hidden gem and one of the more unheralded Caribbean islands. This status means travelers can often find better bargains than known resort islands like St. Barts. But the jaw-dropping views are simply priceless in these parts, making every waterfront sunset dinner a memorable affair. St. George's, the capital, is dotted with colorful homes (and free to walk through). Resorts sweeten the pot with all-inclusive deals to help couples save on money and planning, while leaving room for upgrades like candlelit meals or couples massages at on-site spas.
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Not every couple wants to stick their toes in the sand for seven days. For some, the idea of an active vacation is exciting—and Grand Teton National Park provides that in spades with stunning views to boot. For starters, a $35 entrance fee covers seven days of access to the park, where you can catch views of the Teton Range that postcards don't do justice. Hiking, biking and kayaking can all be done within the park (as can sleeping—campgrounds are on site).
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