Traveling Solo is All the Rage! Where to go on Your Budget

A new study has revealed that the Outer Banks in North Carolina is the least expensive for a 7-day solo vacation, while Charleston ranks the lowest for a family of 4.

Travel experts at OptimosTravels analyzed over 100 well-known attractions across America, assessing them based on daily meal expenses, public transportation costs, accommodation rates, and attraction fees to identify the 10 least vacation destinations in America.

Key Findings

• The Outer Banks, North Carolina, emerges as the least expensive destination, offering a full day’s experience at just $177, making a 7-day family vacation possible for around $3,247.9.

• Georgia distinguishes itself by featuring two of the least expensive destinations, Helen and Tybee Island, showcasing its diverse vacation offerings.

• Charleston, West Virginia, is the most economical choice for a family of four at $418.042 daily, amounting to a total of $2926.3 for a 7-day family trip.

• Aspen, Colorado, tops the list as the most expensive vacation spot, with a total daily cost of $761.39 per person, leading to a whopping $5,329.72 for a 7-day trip per person.

1. Outer Banks, North Carolina

We ranked Outer Banks as the least expensive destination, where the allure of the Atlantic meets affordability. With the lowest accommodation costs at $91.44, combined with meals at $60 and attractions adding up to $11.27, the daily cost per person stands at a mere $177.

A week-long stay here amounts to $1,237.024 per person, making it an irresistible offer for a family of four at just $3,247.9, proving that paradise doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

2. Charleston, West Virginia

Ranked second, Charleston offers a mix of history and nature at an average daily cost of $177 per person. With meals priced at $49.125 and accommodations at $121.33, a 7-day stay is $1,242 per person, offering affordability and charm at $2,926.3 for a family of four.

3. Helen, Georgia

Emulating a Bavarian village, Helen stands third with an average daily expense of $185 per person. The cost includes $63 for meals and $110 for lodging, totaling $1,297 per person for a week. Families can enjoy this unique experience for $3,208.3.

4. Tybee Island, Georgia

Fourth on the list, Tybee Island’s serene beaches come at a daily cost of $186 per person, with meals at $45 and lodging at $118.44. A week’s vacation for a family of four is reasonably priced at $3,246.8.

5. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg offers access to the Great Smoky Mountains at $193 daily per person, with meals at $46.5 and accommodation at $115. The total for a 7-day family adventure is $3,463.7.

6. Sedona, Arizona

Known for its red rock vistas, Sedona ranks sixth, with an average daily cost of $198 per person. A week’s stay amounts to $1,383.667 per person, allowing a family of four to explore for $3,276.

7. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

At seventh place, Cape Cod’s daily expenses average $207 per person, with a week-long visit costing $1,447.444 per person. A family of four can enjoy this coastal retreat for $3,746.6..

8. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

This vibrant city ranks eighth, with daily expenses at $209 per person. A week-long exploration costs $1,463.486 per person, offering urban energy for a family of four at $3,688.5.

9. Bend, Oregon

Ninth-ranked Bend is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with a weekly cost of $1,499.167 per person. Families can enjoy natural beauty for $3,762.5, proving adventure is accessible.

10. Monument Valley, Utah

Completing the list, Monument Valley allows families to experience stunning landscapes at $3,818.9 for a week. Daily costs are $218 per person, including meals and accommodations, totaling $1,529.111 per person for a week-long stay.

A seasoned travel industry expert at OptimosTravels reflected on the findings, emphasizing the significance of luxury travel trends and their impact on the broader tourism landscape. The study’s identification of Aspen, Park City, and Maui as the most expensive vacation destinations in America underscores a growing preference for premium travel experiences among discerning travelers. 

This trend aligns with broader shifts in consumer behavior, where travelers increasingly prioritize unique and exclusive experiences over conventional tourist destinations.

Looking ahead, this trend is expected to shape the future of the travel industry, influencing destination marketing strategies, hospitality offerings, and consumer preferences.”