10 Mini Vacation Ideas for Under $500 + Packing List!

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As much as we all want to take that all-inclusive trip to the Bahamas with our spouse and 6 kids, economically it isn’t feasible. Truth be told, it isn’t always feasible for many people, but just because you can’t take an expensive vacation to the Bahamas doesn’t mean you can’t go on vacation. You can find lots of affordable beach vacation packages if you’re looking for some fun in the sun!

Here are 10 mini vacation ideas for under $500:

#1 Go to an Indoor Waterpark

Indoor waterparks are usually located in hotels. This means you can book a trip away while staying in an upscale hotel. When you stay at the hotel, you can usually get discounts to their indoor waterpark. So, head out to a hotel and indoor waterpark for a night or two for about $500.

#2 Go to a New State

Have you visited all 50 states? Chances are, you probably haven’t. Take a trip to a new state. I like to look for inexpensive hotels on travel sites like Groupon, Travelocity, and hotels.com. When it comes to taking a vacation, there are tons of frugal options.

#3 Take a Camping Trip

There are hundreds of camp sites available all over the US. From state parks to campsites, you can take a little time away on a camping trip. The best part of camping is that depending on how primitive you are, you can literally go on vacation for next to nothing. Look online for free campsites near you.

A camping trip could involved hikes or strolls through parks or other terrains. Make sure to check the area surrounding the campsite for these types of activities if your family is interested. If there is lots of walking involved for you on this trip, make sure you pack some comfortable shoes and inserts for heels.

#4 Go to the Beach

The trick to saving money taking a vacation to the beach is to book a hotel that isn’t directly on the beach. Beaches usually don’t cost anything to visit, but when you book a hotel that is overlooking that beautiful horizon, you can really pay an arm and a leg. Instead, stay in a hotel 20-30 miles away from the beach and spend the day soaking in the sun at some of the best sandy beaches. Here are some of the best beaches in the US:

• Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
• Clearwater Beach, Florida
• Coronado, California
• Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
• Cape Mary, New Jersey

#5 Make Use of Non-Peak Times

Don’t go on vacation when everyone else does. If you want to go somewhere that is pretty costly, but don’t have the money to go, wait for an all-inclusive discount to happen. Sign up for deals and promotions sent to your email on the following sites:

• Groupon
• Travelocity
• Priceline
• BookingBuddy
• Hotwire
• Kayak
• FunJet

Check back on these sites during months when travel is low such as January, March, April, August, September, and October.

#6 Discover New Parts of your State

Most people don’t know everything there is to do right in their own state. Check out Only in your State to find out fun things to do in your area. You can visit a museum on free days, discover a hidden historical place, or take a road trip to beautiful landscapes. With gas, car, and packed food, you can enjoy a road trip to an undiscovered place in your state with minimal funds.

#7 Stay in a Suite with a Pool

You don’t have to even leave your city to have a mini vacation. There are tons of hotels that offer the amenity of a pool. Find a hotel or, better yet, a suite with a pool. You can spend a few days out of the house while relaxing at the pool. If you stay in a suite, you can cook your own meals and save money that way.

#8 Go to a Local Amusement Park

Amusement parks are scattered about throughout the state. Some of the best mini vacations are heading out to a local amusement park for the day. You can ride rides, enjoy your family, and eat all for less than $500.

#9 Look into Historical Culture in your City

Take a road trip discovering the heritage and historical culture in your city. You can visit places where Native Americans lived, the first shops in your city, or find some historical culture about your town. Whether you spend a whole day or a few hours, this is an inexpensive mini vacation.

#10 Take Advantage of Package Deals

You can find any kind of package, vacation, or deal on the internet. Do a little research and find great deals in your area. You can find deals for all-inclusive resorts, amusement parks, and other places when you do a little surfing.

What other ideas do you have for taking a mini vacation for less than $500. Share in the comments below!

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How to Make Your Trip to the Beach Budget Friendly

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