Going on vacation is a summer bucket-list essential for just about everyone. But finding a place to visit that’s both exciting and actually affordable can be tricky business. So to help you stay inspired -- and on budget -- we gathered a roundup of the eight hottest summer destinations that offer the best bang for your buck. Whether you’re an outdoorsy adventurer or a history junkie, you’re guaranteed to find a hotspot that’s right for you.
Zion National Park, Utah
There’s no better time to head over to Zion National Park than in the summer. Located in Southwest Utah, the 148,733-acre preserve is laced with hiking trails that weave through streams, desert, and orange-hued sandstone canyons. And the famed Zion Narrows, which is an upstream hike in the Virgin River, can only be reached during the summer.
Since so many travelers will be flocking to the nature preserve during the warmer months, be sure to avoid high hotel rates by searching for a limited-time deal from Hotels.com instead.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Summer is a slower season for Puerto Rico since it’s smack dab in the middle of hurricane season. But, if you don’t mind keeping an eye on the weather forecast, jet off to the island city of San Juan for a tropical getaway.
Explore the colonial architecture in the streets of Old San Juan or lazily lounge the hours away on a white-sand beach. Because it can be hard to keep track of how much you spend between drinks at the resort bar and airport shuttle fare, look into travel packages that cover multiple expenses in a single purchase.
Orlando, Florida
A summer travel list wouldn’t be a summer travel list without mentioning Orlando, Florida. This Sunshine State city is home to amusement parks like Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld. Also, contrary to what you might assume, mid-to-late summer marks lower prices on tickets and accommodation at several hotels since crowds can thin out due to the hotter weather.
Just be sure to check online crowd estimates to make sure you’ll have a chance to ride all your favorite rides.
Kotor, Montenegro
If you’re dreaming of a gorgeous European getaway that looks like it could be a movie backdrop, then look no further than Kotor.
Situated along the Adriatic coast and backed by mountains, the coastal town offers both natural and cultural beauty. The walled city, which is recognized as a World Heritage Site, features some of the best preserved medieval architecture found in the entire Mediterranean. But since it has only recently gained international attention from travelers, it’s far cheaper to visit than rivaling destinations in Italy and Croatia.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Time travel isn’t an option in 2018, but a visit to Mackinac Island can make you feel as if you were transported to another century. The Northern Michigan island is renowned for its charming Victorian-era buildings, lakefront resorts, and roads filled with horse carriages that provide a true glimpse of yesteryear.
Since Mackinac Island has a strictly enforced no-car policy and a tiny local population, there is also plenty of untouched nature to explore outdoors. Along with several offers on hotels and activities, bargain-savvy travelers can easily stay on budget when visiting the island.
New York City, New York
New York City is a popular destination for all types of travelers. But for those who especially want to save, the Big Apple is the place to be.
Summer months in the metropolis see occasional dips in hotels and airfare. Plus, there are endless free activities such as festivals, art exhibitions, and concerts to take advantage of. And you can always sneak off to the beaches in New Jersey or the roller coasters at Coney Island if you simply want to soak up the sun.
Sydney, Australia
Don’t forget to consider a trip down under when planning your upcoming trip this summer. Beautiful Sydney offers long stretches of both world-class beach and intriguing city streets, so you’ll never find yourself short of things to do.
Since summer is considered winter in the Southern Hemisphere, prices for flights to Australia are typically cheaper from June to August -- just be sure to pack appropriately for highs between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Savannah, Georgia
Visit Savannah if you want a mix of culture, tasty food, and gorgeous scenery. The historic city is known for its antebellum architecture and famously large oak trees that give it a unique look. Since it’s located on the southern coast of Georgia, Savannah has top-notch seafood and several beaches to explore.
Since summer has peak high temperatures and humidity, you can often find some great travel deals for the small city. Just keep an eye on Priceline flight and hotel offers to score savings when you book.
Pack Your Bags for a Fun & Affordable Summer Getaway
A summer trip is meant to be enjoyable, not worrisome. Between travel expenses and resort-wear, it can be easy to unload more than you budgeted for while on vacation.
But, with proper planning and preparation, you can travel to one of these must-visit destinations without going broke. Now the only thing that you’ll worry about is packing for your stay.
Guest Post by Lauren Keys
Lauren Keys is editor-in-chief at DealCrunch.com, an online publication that highlights the retail industry’s movers and shakers, up-and-coming startups, influencers, business solutions, and more. With deep dives into brands and trends, DealCrunch keeps readers informed of relevant retail industry and shopping news.
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