Everything in America is bigger, including prices. That being said, there’s always a way to do or see things cheaply. A little ingenuity and some research is needed, but it’s a small price — almost literally — to pay for a memorable trip.
So if you’re heading to the USA, below are a few tips on how to see America as cheaply as possible.
“Make Yourself at Home!”
Hostels aren’t as prominent in the States as they are in other parts of the world, which leaves hotels. Nicer, yes, but also that bit more expensive. Instead, couchsurfing is a great option, as it’s both a free place to stay and an opportunity to have a local as an acquaintance. If couchsurfing isn’t available, maybe the use of another person’s home is. Housesitting is slowly gaining traction in the U.S., where homeowners allow people to stay in their home for nothing while they’re away. There are a few stipulations though, and homeowners may require their pets to be taken care of, or if you’re staying there longer than just an evening or two, you may have to make a contribution to the bills. All that being said, sometimes budgets have to be forgotten, and in place a couple nights of dumb fun need to be had. You just need to splash out on your accommodation and rest easy in the hotels in Miami. It’s a place where excess is encouraged.
Life in the Fast (Bus) Lane
With plenty of overnight buses going city to city and rides as low as $1, the cheapest way get around in America is by bus. If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, there is ridesharing. Companies allow the use of a car, in order to deliver it to the new owner’s location. A driver’s license is, of course, necessary. Ridesharing is currently hard to come by though. Of course, you can always thumb a few rides, but you never know who might be picking you up. It’s better to get around safely as well as cheaply. Bus it!
Cheap hotels in China Town, NYC
Lunch, Dinner & Breakfast For Less
America’s a nation that likes its food, as evidenced by the sheer amount of buffets around the country. The best thing about buffets for the budget traveler is that one meal magically turns into many if there’s an empty container handy. The same mindset can be applied to drinks (non-alcoholic) as well. Most American fast food restaurants have self-refill fountain drinks. So after one drink is bought, a free refill is available anywhere the same fast food restaurant is.
Conclusion
America might be a touch more difficult to get around in other countries, but making the effort is worth the hassle. There are so many experiences to come by in the country…. so much to go back home and tell your friends about. All you have to do is stop and think, and then you can enjoy it all. Now go out and there and do that exploring.
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