how to travel the united states for free

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13 ways to travel for free in the U.S.

Some serious, not-so-secret ways to vacation for free

The best things in life are, oftentimes, free, and travel is no exception. And who wouldn't want a free vacation? Especially when it costs 15 percent more to travel now than it did four years ago, according to NerdWallet's Travel Inflation Report . At a time when it seems nearly everything costs more, there are many legit, non-scammy ways to travel for free in the U.S.

Get up and go—gratis —by getting creative, participating in the sharing economy and doing activities you already love. From pet sitting to couchsurfing to volunteering, here's how you can take the vacation of your dreams without spending a dollar.

RECOMMENDED: The best cheap family vacations in the U.S.

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Ways to travel for free in the U.S.

1.  Offer to move someone's car

Turn miles into money and a free road trip by transporting automobiles of all makes, models, and sizes across the U.S. Driving for a vehicle relocation company like Auto Driveaway or Transfercar is an easy way to help companies move their vehicles cross country. For Auto Driveaway, applicants must be 23 to 75 years old and have a driver's license and a clean driving record. For Transfercar, drivers help rental car companies relocate their cars and RVs and must be 18 years old (21 years old in some states) and have a valid driver's license in the U.S. and Canada.

2.  Go on a heritage trip

Depending on your heritage, you may be able to take a free or heavily subsidized government or nonprofit-run "birthright" trip. Subsidized programs where participants pay a modest fee include Birthright Armenia , a homestay and volunteerism program from nine weeks to one year that includes accommodation and some travel reimbursement, the 14-day Domovina Birthright Program to Croatia for adults of Croatian descent 18 to 30 years old, Birthright Macedonia , which offers a three-week homestay and internship program, ReConnect Hungary , which offers several birthright and volunteer programs, and Taiwan Study Tour , also known as the "Love Boat" for the many romances that come from it, which is a three-week summer study tour for overseas Chinese.

Birthright programs that offer free trips include Birthright AFRICA , which offers a 10-day trip to Africa to U.S. citizens 13 to 30 years old of Black/African descent, and Birthright Israel , which offers a 10-day trip to Israel to eligible Jewish adults 18 to 26 years old.

3.  Be a leader

Help the next generation of travelers by serving as a trip leader, resident advisor (RA), or support staff on travel study programs, pre-college programs, or summer camps. From planning activities to conflict resolution to mentoring students and campers, explore new places while working with and inspiring young people. Go Abroad and English First are web pages with extensive databases to search for educational programs and American Camp Association has a searchable database of more than 3,900 day and sleepaway camps in the U.S.

4.  Combine your work with travel

From travel nurse to flight attendant to travel blogging, there are many careers that can provide a long-term work-life balance that includes continuous travel. Travelnursing.org provides skilled nursing placements in all 50 states. The website connects wannabe travel nurses with up to four recruitment agencies that fill short-term work assignments that last between eight and 26 weeks.

Don't have a nursing degree? Au Pair World and InterExchange are platforms that connect host families and au pairs from around the world.

Travelers can sail the seven seas while working in hospitality, entertainment, retail, spa, photography and more aboard a cruise ship. Job board All Cruise Jobs and individual cruise line career websites list paid jobs in all areas of the cruise industry while CrewSeekers , Yacrew , and Find a Crew list opportunities for amateur and professional yacht and superyacht crews.

5.  Plan around a work trip

Business travel + leisure = bleisure. If you have a job that requires you to hit the road from time to time, incorporate your next vacation into your work trip. When booking trips for work, try to fly out a day before or after to squeeze in some vacay time. On a tight schedule? Resist the temptation to stay in after a long day of work. Go out to eat, take a stroll, and visit attractions like museums that are open into the evening. Also, book an early morning flight to your destination so you can squeeze in a half day of sightseeing and book an afternoon or evening flight on your last day for last-minute shopping or touring. If you don't already have a job that includes business travel, consider switching to a career in sales, hospitality, and event planning, which often require some travel.

6.  Become a digital nomad

Take your job on the road by working remotely with no fixed address. Some 15.5 million American workers currently describe themselves as digital nomads, according to The MBO Partners® 2021 State of Independence research study . If you don't want to go it alone, there are short-term programs like Hacker Paradise , Remote Year , and WiFi Tribe that will help jumpstart your travel-work lifestyle for a fee. 

Prefer to stay in one place and travel on the weekends? Ask your current employer if you can be transferred to a branch in another city or overseas for a short-term assignment or look for a company that has branches in multiple cities and offers the opportunity to work in multiple locations.

7.  Take a working holiday

Have commitment issues? Whether you want to work for a few days, a week, or longer, working holidays offer the chance to work short-term or seasonally in exchange for free room and board and, oftentimes, airfare too. Season Workers lists temporary and seasonal work at ski resorts and summer camps while Yoga Trade facilitates yoga-based exchanges globally by connecting yoga instructors to jobs, and Adventure Work posts adventure and ski resort jobs.

Looking to work with an NGO, contribute to a sustainable project, or experience a cultural exchange? Workaway is a platform for arranging homestays and cultural exchanges. Workawayers work for about five hours per day in exchange for accommodation and food.

Some of the most popular working holidays are teaching English abroad in programs like the Japan Exchange and Teaching Program . Founded in 1987, the government-run JET Program has placed more than 70,000 participants in schools and government offices throughout Japan. Participants' salary begins at $25,500 annually and airfare, visa, insurance, and orientation are provided (housing help is given but participants pay full costs). TEFL and Dave's ESL Cafe are job listing websites specifically for English teaching jobs abroad.

Several countries, such as Australia , Ireland , New Zealand , and Singapore , offer working holiday visas to Americans. These visas allow young adults to work legally while also allowing them to travel and explore the country.

8.  Volunteer with an organization

Lending your time and talent to teach, work on a farm, or do other work in exchange for room and board and, sometimes, airfare is an easy way to see the world. There are several volunteer programs.

For more than 60 years, the Peace Corps has partnered with 60 host countries on hands-on, grassroots-driven projects like education and health campaigns. Founded in 1993 by President Bill Clinton, the government-run AmeriCorps arranges a variety of service projects, ranging from three months to one year across the U.S. AmeriCorps members receive transportation to their assigned campus and projects, accommodations, and a living allowance of $180 to $500 every two weeks.

Looking for shorter volunteer travel? The Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms ( WWOOF ) pairs WWOOFers with organic farm hosts in 130 countries. Active vacationers work on the farm for about 25 hours per week and, in exchange, get room and board in a rural setting, learn about farming and gardening, and engage in a cultural exchange. HelpX is similar to farm stays and ranches plus hostels and sailing boats that seek helpers in exchange for accommodation and food.

HelpStay lists 1,500 volunteer stays in 100-plus countries while Worldpackers and Go Overseas lists thousands of volunteer opportunities worldwide. Pueblo Inglés offers transportation from Barcelona, Madrid, or Munich, accommodations in a shared room, and meals in exchange for participants to speak English for up to 12 hours per day for six to eight days with locals in Germany and Spain.

9.  Become a sitter

While you will have to pay for your travel to and from these destinations, house sitting and pet sitting let you live like a local for free while watering the plants, picking up the mail, and cuddling with furry friends. Online communities, including HouseCarers and MindMyHouse , connect homeowners with housesitters while Animal Aunts and TrustedHousesitters match house sitters and pet sitters who want to care for cats, dogs, horses, birds, fish, and reptiles.

10.  Swap houses or couch surf—or both!

Looking for something more low-key? Live like a local for free with Couchsurfing , an online community of 14 million people in 200,000 cities who have been sharing their couches and love for their locales since 2004, and the newer, nonprofit Couchers . Want a place all to yourself? Consider a house swap, where you trade your place for someone else's. HomeExchange has members in more than 145 countries and  HomeLink has been running its worldwide home-swapping network since 1953.

11.  Cash in those points!

There are many ways to convert everyday spending into free travel. Get credit cards like the Delta SkyMiles American Express card, which comes with annual benefits like a free companion ticket, Delta Sky Club access, and fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, and the Chase Sapphire card, which provides an annual travel credit card, points on Lyft, and generous points for travel and dining purchases. The points earned on these credit cards can be converted to plane tickets and hotel stays. Joining hotel loyalty programs is another way to rack up free nights.

12.  Get yourself bumped from a flight

If the crew on your next flight asks for volunteers willing to get "bumped" and give up their seats, you might want to take them up on the offer. When there are more passengers for a flight than there are seats, some passengers need to get "bumped" or denied boarding. Before getting involuntarily bumped, the airline must ask if there are any passengers willing to give up their seats in exchange for compensation like money or vouchers, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation .

Getting bumped from a flight is often an easy way to immediately rack up extra cash for your vacation in exchange for taking a later flight. Be sure to ask when the next flight is, if your ticket for that flight is on standby or confirmed, and if the airline will provide other compensation like meals and hotel. If the airline is also offering you a voucher for future travel, learn what restrictions there might be before you agree to get bumped.

13.  Buddy up with family and friends

Ask your family and friends if you can tag along on their previously planned trips. Oftentimes, it doesn't cost extra to add a plus-one to hotel rooms, cruise cabins, or RVs. Older family members may appreciate the companionship and share their award miles or airline companion ticket with you. At the same time, cruisers can save money by sharing the cabin instead of paying a higher price for traveling solo. If your friends have already planned a road trip, there's no extra cost in hosting another passenger in the car. In the process, they get an extra driver or a navigator who can read the map and manage the playlist—a win-win all around.

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10 Ways That You Can Travel Around The U.S. For Free

Wondering how to travel for free in the US? From house-sitting to volunteer opportunities, discover some of the best ways to travel the US for free.

• Travel for free by offering to move someone's vehicle during cross-country moves, turning it into a free road trip.
• Embrace the digital nomad lifestyle to work remotely while traveling, eliminating the need for accommodation costs.
• Volunteer time and skills to organizations in exchange for free accommodation and explore the country while helping others.

The US is blessed with so many beautiful destinations and incredible natural scenery where travelers can create unforgettable memories. But from flight fares to accommodation costs and buying admission tickets, the expense to explore and experience the beauty of the US can be very high. That’s why most people’s ultimate excuse for not traveling is lack of money. However, what if there was a chance to travel around the US for free?

While traveling for free might seem only true in a dream, today, there are more opportunities than ever to see the world without spending a dime. Surprisingly, part of the travel strategy doesn’t involve exploring cheap accommodations in the US or free attractions; it comprises handy hacks, tips, and smart opportunities to take advantage of no-cost travel (or minimally costing, at the very least).

Traveling for free can allow one to turn their dream vacation ideas around the world into a reality - the United States included - and get to know the place better. From embracing the digital nomad lifestyle to joining a work exchange platform, here are ways to travel the US for free.

Related: 10 Cheap Ways To Travel No Matter What Your Budget Is

10 Offering To Move Someone’s Vehicle Is An Easy Way To See The Country

Looking to take the most scenic road trip in America but don’t have the gas budget? During cross-country moves, many people need help with moving their vehicles. Driving someone’s car across the country is a great way to get out of town, enjoy a free road trip, and turn miles into money.

To benefit from such opportunities, register with Auto Driveway and Transfercar , which pair travelers with individuals or companies that need their vehicles driven. Some deals even include covering the driver's flight home.

Before setting off, make sure to fully understand the terms of the agreement and get expenses reimbursed.

Related: 10 Of The Most Scenic Highways In The U.S. (Perfect For A Road Trip)

9 Become A Digital Nomad To Enjoy Unparalleled Flexibility (And Earn While Traveling)

The digital nomad lifestyle is becoming widespread, thanks to the many types of jobs for digital nomads . Freelancing is such a different experience wherein people can work on their own clock. The flexibility it offers makes it possible to travel and make money. However, in most cases, being a digital nomad requires pairing with other ways to travel for free to cover flight fares and other expenses.

Swapping houses is one of the things that work perfectly for digital nomads as they eliminate the need to pay for accommodation while traveling from one place to the next.

Working remotely as a digital nomad is one of the best ways to make money and travel at the same time. This way, visitors can keep up with their work while traveling and living all around the US, experiencing different cultures and lifestyles simultaneously.

Related: How To Make Ends Meet And Make It Work Being A Digital Nomad (While Traveling The World)

8 Become A House Sitter Or A Pet Sitter To Get Free Accommodation

Staying in even the cheapest hotels in the US can eat into any travel budget. Being open to taking care of someone’s home, pet, and plants while on vacation is one of the easiest ways to get free accommodation and live like a local. Travelers can also discover tiny yet charming villages and small towns they would have never known about through these arrangements.

There are many websites dedicated to connecting house sitters with homeowners, including MindMyHouse and HouseCarers . Pet lovers can check communities like TrustedHousesitters and Animal Aunts to connect with homeowners in need of pet sitters.

Check the reviews of the homeowner before signing up for a house-sitting job.

7 Volunteer To Travel For Free

Time is a valuable resource, and people can enjoy free traveling upon lending their time to organizations. There are many programs in the US that offer volunteers free accommodation and food in exchange for completing tasks. The Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) is one of the widely known programs.

Travelers who aren’t afraid to get dirty work on farms for about 25 hours a week and can spend the rest of their time exploring. Other famous programs include HelpX , HelpStay , and Workaway .

Before signing up to volunteer, make sure to understand the job requirements and all the rules of the organization.

6 Score Free Nights By Swapping Houses Or Couchsurfing

Nowadays, travelers have mastered the art of trading their place for someone else’s in order to get free accommodation and travel for free. It is an easy way to cut accommodation costs while on vacation.

There are many websites dedicated to connecting like-minded travelers willing to swap their homes. Some home-swapping communities include Love Home Swap , HomeExchange , and Homelink . For those looking for somewhere to rest, Couchsurfing connects travelers with local hosts who are willing to offer free accommodations.

Before making a decision, be sure to read all reviews and feedback from previous guests on the host's profile page.

Related: New App Helps You Find The Cheapest Flights And Hotels Across The US And Canada

5 Combine Work And Travel

Several careers allow for a work-life balance that includes traveling from one state to another. Those pursuing careers in hospitality, entertainment, spa, photography, and other flexible careers can check out relevant websites and agencies for assignments that offer ideal life-work balance along with the chance to travel.

For example, Travel Nursing offers qualified nurses an opportunity to explore the country as they complete assignments for a great paycheck. Au Pair World is yet another great platform where travelers can score free accommodation during their stay.

4 Leverage Loyalty Programs To Rack Up Free Flights And Nights

One of the best travel hacking tips for beginners is to take advantage of loyalty programs. Travel hacking allows people to easily afford flights and hotels. Many airlines, hotel chains, and travel credit cards offer loyalty points, allowing travelers to fly and stay for free.

Travelers just need to use travel credit cards that offer perks whenever they undertake regular spending (responsibly, of course). Some great options include American Express Platinum, Delta SkyMiles American Express, and Chase Sapphire cards.

Check loyalty programs of airlines and hotel chains that visitors are already loyal to.

Related: What's The Best Credit Card For Travelers?

3 Take Advantage Of Overbooked Flights

Pondering how to get free flights in the US (and worldwide even)? Volunteering to give up one's seat on a flight when it's overbooked is one of the ultimate ways to fly for free.

Of course, most people don't want to be bumped from a flight, as it can be inconvenient. That’s why American Airlines contacts passengers ahead about overbooked flights . But there are times when it is worth taking advantage of overbooked flights. It only requires a little flexibility, which can actually work best for digital nomads.

At the airport, when the airline staff opens the intercom and starts making announcements, pay attention to see if they request for volunteers to give up their seats and be rebooked onto a later flight. Often, in such cases, the airline may refund the tickets of volunteers who agree to give up their seats and be bumped to a later journey. Alternatively, they might offer a hefty discount or a free future flight.

This is an excellent way to take advantage of any free flight opportunities. Depending on replacement flight delays, travelers may even end up getting up to 400% compensation .

2 Work As A Flight Attendant To Earn Money While Traveling The US (And The Rest Of The World!)

Looking for a career in travel that will translate into free traveling in the US (and potentially beyond)? Become a flight attendant for a US airline. It is a lucrative and exciting career, but traveling for free is the biggest bonus.

With a travel pass program, flight attendants can usually take as many free flights during their free time as long as there are empty seats.

Try to apply for the biggest airlines that offer the most benefits and discounts.

Related: Here's Everything A Flight Attendant Does During A Flight

1 Guide Tourists And Be A Group Trip Leader While Traveling The United States

Tourists and vacationers from overseas often require help to make the most of their trips. Those with an outgoing personality, a sense of adventure, and a thirst for new experiences can quench their desires by working as travel guides in the US. In particular, wildlife safaris and adventure tours offer plenty of opportunities.

The best way to get started is to check for openings in local travel companies. Those seeking the thrill of exploring a specific destination can organize a family or group trip and be the group leader. There are many ways to minimize costs when traveling as a group that leaders can apply, and many flights offer discounts or even free flight seats to group leaders when they organize and book a trip for their group.

The Latest on U.S. Travel Restrictions

By Lauren Hard Oct. 19, 2021

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What to Know: U.S. Travel Restrictions

Beginning today, international visitors who are fully vaccinated against the coronavirus can enter the United States by air or across the land borders with Canada and Mexico.

Here’s the latest →

The new policy ends an 18-month ban on nonessential travel from 33 countries, including China, Brazil and European Union members. The ban had affected tourists and those hoping to visit family and friends in the U.S.

The rules reorient the U.S. approach to vetting its visitors during the pandemic.

Instead of basing entry decisions on travelers’ countries of origin, the U.S. is focusing on vaccination status.

International visitors flying into the U.S. now need to show proof of vaccination before boarding and a negative coronavirus test taken within three days of their flight.

The three vaccines available in the U.S. — Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson — are accepted, as are vaccines cleared for emergency use by the W.H.O., including AstraZeneca and Covaxin.

Unvaccinated foreign visitors cannot enter the country, with limited exemptions.

Unvaccinated Americans returning home need to test negative for the coronavirus within one day of their flight and show proof they have purchased another test to take after arriving.

The hope is with these longstanding bans being lifted, the U.S. tourism industry will start to recover. The halt on travel caused a loss of nearly $300 billion in visitor spending, according to the U.S. Travel Association.

Keep up with the latest travel news, trends and feature stories.

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Visit the United States

The Secretary of Homeland Security and the Secretary of State work together to create and maintain an effective, efficient visa process that secures America’s borders from external threats and ensures that our country remains open to legitimate travel.

DHS provides a full range of online resources to help you plan your trip, manage your arrival and if needed extend your stay.

Plan Your Trip

• Obtain a Visitor VISA - (U.S. State Department) Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. The visa allows a foreign citizen, to travel to the United States port-of entry and request permission of the U.S. immigration inspector to enter the U.S.
• Determine the correct VISA category - (USCIS) There are more than 20 nonimmigrant visa types for people traveling to the United States temporarily. There are many more types of immigrant visas for those coming to live permanently in the United States.  The type of visa you need is determined by the purpose of your intended travel.  Get help determining the right VISA category at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services homepage.
• Office of Biometric Identity Management (OBIM)  - Provides biometric identification services to federal, state and local government decision makers to help them accurately identify the people they encounter and determine whether those people pose a risk to the United States. OBIM currently applies to all international visitors (with limited exemptions) entering the United States, but not to U.S. citizens.
• Visa Waiver Program: Passport Requirements Timeline - As of October 26, 2006, any passport issued on or after this date by a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) country must be an e-Passport  for VWP travelers to be eligible to enter the United States without a visa. If your passport is older, see requirements here
• Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) - A fully automated, electronic system for screening passengers before they begin travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. Voluntary ESTA applications may be submitted at any time prior to travel to the United States, and Visa Waiver Program travelers are encouraged to apply for authorization as soon as they begin to plan a trip to the U.S.

Your Arrival

• Locate a Port Of Entry - Air, Land, or Sea (CBP) - At a port of entry, CBP enforces the import and export laws and regulations of the U.S. federal government and conducts immigration policy and programs. Ports also perform agriculture inspections to protect the USA from potential carriers of animal and plant pests or diseases that could cause serious damage to America's crops, livestock, pets, and the environment.
• Global Entry Program (CBP) - Expedited screening and processing for pre-screened international travelers entering the United States.
• CBP Traveler Entry Forms (CBP) - Whether you are a visitor to the United States or U.S. citizen, each individual arriving into the United States must complete one or more of U.S. Customs and Border Protection's (CBP) entry forms.
• DHS Traveler Redress Inquiry Program (DHS TRIP) - If you have difficulties experienced during their travel screening at transportation hubs--like airports and train stations--or crossing U.S. borders, use this system to make inquiries or seek resolution.

Extend Your Stay

• Apply to Extend Your Stay - (USCIS) If you want to extend your stay in the United States, you must file a request with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on the Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status before your authorized stay expires. If you remain in the United States longer than authorized, you may be barred from returning and/or you may be removed (deported) from the United States.
• Change Your Non-Immigrant Status - (USCIS) If you want to change the purpose of your visit while in the United States, you (or in some cases your employer) must file a request with USCIS on the appropriate form before your authorized stay expires. 

Tips During Your Trip to the United States

Beware of Scams - (Federal Trade Commission) The Department of State, Office of Visa Services, advises the public of a notable increase in fraudulent emails and letters sent to Diversity Visa (DV) program (Visa Lottery) applicants. The scammers behind these fraudulent emails and letters are posing as the U.S. government in an attempt to extract payment from DV applicants.

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International Travel as a Permanent Resident

In general, you will need to present a passport from your country of citizenship or your refugee travel document to travel to a foreign country. In addition, the foreign country may have additional entry/exit requirements (such as a visa). For information on foreign entry and exit requirements, see the Department of State’s website .

If seeking to enter the United States after temporary travel abroad, you will need to present a valid, unexpired “Green Card” (Form I-551, Permanent Resident Card). When arriving at a port of entry, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officer will review your permanent resident card and any other identity documents you present, such as a passport, foreign national I.D. card or U.S. Driver’s License, and determine if you can enter the United States. For information pertaining to entry into the United States, see U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s webpage .

Permanent residents are free to travel outside the United States, and temporary or brief travel usually does not affect your permanent resident status. If it is determined, however, that you did not intend to make the United States your permanent home, you will be found to have abandoned your permanent resident status. A general guide used is whether you have been absent from the United States for more than a year. Abandonment may be found to occur in trips of less than a year where it is believed you did not intend to make the United States your permanent residence. While brief trips abroad generally are not problematic, the officer may consider criteria such as whether your intention was to visit abroad only temporarily, whether you maintained U.S. family and community ties, maintained U.S employment, filed U.S. income taxes as a resident, or otherwise established your intention to return to the United States as your permanent home. Other factors that may be considered include whether you maintained a U.S. mailing address, kept U.S. bank accounts and a valid U.S. driver’s license, own property or run a business in the United States, or any other evidence that supports the temporary nature of your absence.

If you plan on being absent from the United States for longer than a year, it is advisable to first apply for a reentry permit on Form I-131 . Obtaining a reentry permit prior to leaving the United States allows a permanent or conditional permanent resident to apply for admission into the United States during the permit’s validity without the need to obtain a returning resident visa from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad. Please note that it does not guarantee entry into the United States upon your return as you must first be determined to be admissible; however, it will assist you in establishing your intention to permanently reside in the United States. For more information, see the Travel Documents page.

If you remain outside of the United States for more than 2 years, any reentry permit granted before your departure from the United States will have expired. In this case, it is advisable to consider applying for a returning resident visa (SB-1) at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. An SB-1 applicant will be required to establish eligibility for an immigrant visa and will need a medical exam. There is an exception to this process for the spouse or child of either a member of the U.S. Armed Forces or civilian employee of the U.S. Government stationed abroad on official orders. For more information on obtaining a returning resident visa, see the Department of State’s webpage on returning resident visas .

Additionally, absences from the United States of six months or more may disrupt the continuous residency required for naturalization. If your absence is one year or longer and you wish to preserve your continuous residency in the United States for naturalization purposes, you may file an Application to Preserve Residence for Naturalization Purposes on Form N-470. For more information, please see the Continuous Residence and Physical Presence Requirements page.

If you lose your Green Card or reentry permit or it is stolen or destroyed while you are abroad, you may need to file a Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation) . This carrier documentation will allow an airline or other transportation carrier to board a lawful permanent resident bound for the United States without the carrier being penalized. For more information, please see the Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation) page.

More Information

• Welcome to the United States: A Guide for New Immigrants (PDF, 3.57 MB)
• How Do I Get a Reentry Permit? (PDF, 667.32 KB)
• I-131, Application for Travel Document
• I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card

Other USCIS Links

• Green Card Resources
• How Do I Help My Relative Become a Lawful Permanent Resident? (PDF, 577.38 KB)
• How Do I Renew or Replace My Permanent Resident Card? (PDF, 550.19 KB)
• "How Do I" Guides for Permanent Residents

How to Road Trip Across the United States on a Budget

The Great American Road Trip is a rite of passage in the United States . We Americans have a unique fascination with the open road. It’s built into our cultural DNA. In Jazz Age America, the car was a symbol of freedom — a chance to escape your small town and the watchful eyes of parents.

As the highway system was developed in the 1950s, a wave of kids set out on the road to explore the country, giving new life to America’s car and road trip culture. Today, many still dream of getting in a car and driving into wide open spaces for months on end.

I’ve had the privilege of taking several multi-week and multi-month road trips around the country over the years. From traveling the Deep South to criss-crossing the country coast to coast , I’ve visited almost every state, exploring the myriad nooks and crannies of Uncle Sam’s backyard.

One thing is for certain, in diversity and scale, the United States is virtually unrivaled.

But this isn’t a post about fawning over America and its landscapes ( this post is ). This article is about how you can travel around the US on a budget.

Because, as it turns out, this country is surprisingly easy to travel on the cheap.

While rising gas prices and rental car price gouging post-COVID put a damper on things, it’s still easier than you think to have a budget-friendly road trip adventure around the USA.

In this post, I’ll explain how much I spent on one of my trips, how much you should expect to spend, and how you can save money on your next road trip.

Table of Contents

How Much Did My Cross-Country Road Trip Cost?

How to save money on your road trip, how to save on accommodation, how to save on food, how to save on sightseeing, how to save on transportation.

After 116 days traveling around the United States on this trip, I spent $6,262.67 USD, or $53.98 USD per day. While that is slightly higher than $50 USD a day, there were many parts of my budget I splurged on (see breakdown below) which skewed the number up. I definitely could have visited the country even cheaper if I didn’t have an addiction to Starbucks and sushi.

Here is how the numbers from my road trip break down:

• Accommodations: $1,036.36
• Food: $3,258.23
• Drinks: $438.94
• Gas: $696.98
• Parking: $253.00
• Starbucks: $75.26
• Miscellaneous (movies, toiletries, etc.): $170.00
• Attractions: $269.40
• Taxis: $41.00
• Bus: $17.50
• Subway: $6.00

Let’s break this down. First, my Starbucks addiction was unnecessary and added to my costs. Second, as a lover of sushi, trying various restaurants throughout my road trip drastically raised my food costs. Sushi, after all, is not cheap.

Moreover, I ate as if I wasn’t on a budget and rarely cooked, which is why my food expenses were so high relative to everything else. I would have definitely gone below $50 USD per day if I followed my own advice and cooked more often.

But, while I splurged in some places, three other things really helped me to keep expenses down: First, gas prices were low, averaging around $2.35 USD a gallon over the duration of my trip. (We’re going to discuss how to still do a road trip on a budget with high gas prices in the next section.)

Second, once you leave the big cities, prices for everything drop by nearly half so I spent a lot of time out of cities.

Third, I used Couchsurfing and cashed in hotel points to keep accommodation costs down. That helped a lot.

Overall, I didn’t do too bad and am happy with how much I spent. But is this how much you’ll spend, especially in the face of inflation and high gas prices? Let’s discuss that below.  

It’s no secret travel costs a lot lately and inflation and high gas prices have really made super cheap road trips hard if you’re not staying places for free but that doesn’t mean the road trip has to be super expensive.

With that in mind, here’s how to cut your accommodation, sightseeing, food, and transportation costs — all without cutting into your experience!  

1. Couchsurf — Couchsurfing is a service that allows you to stay with locals for free. Using this website (or similar ones) is the best way to lower accommodation costs, as you can’t get cheaper than free!

More than that, it’s a wonderful way to meet locals, get insider tips, and find off-the-beaten-track stuff to do in the area you’re visiting. While you’re generally expected to reciprocate your host’s kindness (cooking them a meal, taking them out for drinks or coffee, etc.), it’s still far cheaper than paying for a hotel or motel.

While the app has seen its community shrink in recent years, there are still plenty of hosts across the United States so you’ll rarely find problems finding someone to put you up.

Additionally, if you don’t feel comfortable staying with a stranger, you can use the app to meet people for drinks, coffee, activities, or anything else you want to do. That way, you can still meet a local and get their insider tips without having to stay with them. The app has all kinds of meet-ups and events too so be sure to check it out.

2. Airbnb — I only recommend using Airbnb in rural, out of the way places where hotels are limited. Avoid them as much as possible in other circumstances. Here is why we don’t really recommend them.

3. Budget hotels — There are a plethora of cheap roadside hotels such as Motel 6 and Super 8 that will help you stay cheap. Rooms start around $50 USD per night and are super basic and always look well worn. You’ll get a bed, bathroom, TV, tiny closet, and maybe a desk. They are nothing to write home about, but for a quiet place to sleep for a night, they do the trick.

And if you’re traveling with someone you should always say the room is for one person as these hotels charge you more for two people.

Also, make sure you sign up for Booking.com and Hotels.com loyalty programs. Hotels.com gives you a free room after 10 bookings, and Booking.com offers members 10% off bookings, as well as free upgrades and perks if you book multiple times after signing up. They definitely helped a lot.

Pro tip : Book through websites like Mr.Rebates or Rakuten . By using their links before going to Hotels.com or Booking, you’ll get 2-4% cash back in addition to the loyalty program deals.

4. Hotel points — Be sure to sign up for hotel credit cards before you go and use those points when you travel. You can get upwards of 70,000 points as a sign-up bonus, which can translate into a week’s worth of accommodations.

The points came in handy in places where I couldn’t find an Airbnb, hostel, or Couchsurfing host. This saved my butt in big cities around the country. I was glad I had accrued so many hotel points before my trip.

To learn more about, check out these posts:

• The Best Hotel Credit Cards
• The Ultimate Guide to Picking the Best Travel Credit Card
• Points and Miles 101: A Beginner’s Guide
• The Best Travel Credit Cards

5. Hostels — There aren’t many hostels in the United States, and most of them are overpriced. A dorm room typically costs around $30 a night, which means you can obtain a similar private room on Airbnb at the same price. If you are traveling with others, it’s often more economical to get a budget hotel than a bunch of dorm beds.

However, if you are traveling solo and want to meet others, the social benefits may outweigh the lack of value. There were just some times I didn’t want to be alone – I wanted to be around other travelers.

Some of the hostels I loved are:

• Samesun Venice Beach (LA)
• South Beach Hostel (Miami)
• India House (New Orleans)
• Jazz Hostels (NYC)
• ITH Adventure Hostel (San Diego)
• The Green Tortoise (San Francisco and Seattle).

For more hostel suggestions, here’s a list of my favorite hostels in the USA.

6. Camping — Dotted around the country — including around all the national parks — are inexpensive campsites. If you have a tent and camping gear, this is by far the cheapest way to travel. Campsites cost between $10-30 USD per night, which makes seeing the country incredibly affordable. Most campsites have basic amenities like running water, bathrooms, and the ability to upgrade to get electricity.

In addition to your standard campgrounds, check out the sharing economy website Campspace . It lets you pitch a tent on private properties all around the country for a small fee. Much like Airbnb, some plots are super basic and barebones while others are more luxurious, so be sure to poke around for a cheap place to stay as there are plots available all around the country.

It’s also legal to wild camp in national forests and on BLM land unless otherwise marked.

7. Sleep in your car — I know this isn’t glamorous but sleeping in your vehicle brings your accommodation costs down to zero. I know lots of travelers who did this to make their trip more affordable, some sleeping in their car just occasionally and others doing it every night. Chances are you won’t sleep well but you will save money, and that’s a fair trade to some people!

For those traveling in an RV, there are tons of free places to park and camp all around the country. Use iOverlander to find the best spots.  

To help you keep your food costs in check, here are a few quick tips:

1. Cook your own meals as often as possible – If you can bring a cooler in your vehicle, you can pack groceries instead of eating out all the time. And if you bring some containers, you can store leftovers in the car too, allowing you to cook larger meals at dinner that you can eat the next day for lunch.

2. Stay in accommodation with a kitchen – If you want to cook, you’ll need a kitchen. Prioritize accommodation like Couchsurfing, Airbnb, and hostels as those will typically provide kitchen access so you can cook your meals.

3. Shop cheap – Avoid the pricier grocery stores like Whole Foods when it comes to getting groceries and stick to budget places like Walmart. It’s not glamorous, but it will be cheap!

4. Find cheap restaurants – When you want to eat out but don’t want to break the bank, use Yelp, ask people on websites like Couchsurfing, or inquire at the desks at hostels for suggestions. Locals have the best tips and insights when it comes to where to eat so they can point you in the right direction. Simply cook, limit your eating out, and be happy!

1. Get a National Parks pass — For $80, you can purchase an annual National Parks and Federal Lands ‘America the Beautiful’ pass that provides access to all 63 national parks (as well as any other recreation areas administered by the National Park Service). In total, you can visit more than 2,000 federal recreation sites with the same pass. At $20-35 USD per visit, seeing five during your trip makes the pass a money saver. When you visit your first park, simply buy the pass and you’re good to go. There’s no need to order it in advance.

The U.S. national park system is amazing and really highlights the diversity of landscapes in the country. You can’t travel across the country without stopping at many of the national parks, especially as you get out west.

2. City tourism cards — City tourism cards allow you to see a large number of attractions (and often include free public transportation) for one price, usually $75-100 USD. They provide free access to museums, reduced access to attractions, and restaurant discounts. Be sure to look into them if you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, as they generally will save you money. They can be purchased at tourism information centers or online before you go.

3. Free museums and events — Inquire at tourism centers, use Google, or ask hotel or hostel staff for information about free events and museums. Many museums offer occasional free or discounted admission throughout the week. There are always tons of free activities in any city in the United States.

4. Free walking tours and city greeter programs — Many cities in the US have free walking tours or city greeter programs that pair you with a local guide who can give you a brief tour. Whenever I visit a new city, I start my trip off with one of these tours. They show you the lay of the land, introduce you to the main sights, and give you access to an expert local guide that can answer all your questions.

Check in with the local tourism office when you arrive to see what programs and tours are available.

For greeter programs, you’ll need to sign-up in advance before your visit. It’s good to give about 2 weeks’ notice as they have to find someone to take you around. Google “(city name) greeter program” to find them as some are run independently of the city tourism board so might not be listed on their website.

Here are your options when it comes to traveling across the country:

1. Hitchhike — This isn’t something I did on my trip, as I had a car, but it’s very doable (and relatively safe). Here’s a post by my friend Matt who hitchhiked across the United States explaining how to do so and come out alive (don’t worry, it’s safer than you think)..

For more hitchhiking tips, use Hitchwiki .

2. Rideshare — Taking on riders can be a way to lower your costs. On my first trip across the U.S., I offered rides to people I met in hostels. On this trip, I had friends and readers join me along the way. You can post ads on Craigslist and Gumtree and at hostels to find riders. This not only makes the trip more enjoyable but lowers your gas costs. Or if you are a rider, you can use the same services to find rides to get you places.

3. Buy a car — If you don’t have a car or don’t want to rent one, you can buy cheap used cars from car dealers or owners on Craigslist. There are lots of listings, and you can resell the car at the end of your trip to recoup some of your initial purchase cost. While this is easy in other countries, it’s hard to do in the United States, so remember a couple of key points:

• You’ll need a US address for registration documents to get sent to. I would use a hostel or hotel address and then set up a forwarding address with the Post Office.
• You’ll have to buy car insurance, which can greatly add to the costs of your trip.

Another option is to use a car relocation service. This is when you take someone’s car and drive it across the country. You are usually paid, and gas is covered. The downside is you don’t often have a lot of leeway on timing, so you might not have much time to stop and sightsee along the way. Car relocation options are also usually limited. Two companies worth checking out are Transfercar and Hit the Road .

If you just want to rent a car, use Discover Cars .

4. Use gas apps & membership programs – Install GasBuddy , an app that finds the cheapest gas prices near you. It is a must. If you’re going on a longer road trip, sign up for the monthly program; it costs $9.99 but will save you up to 40 cents a gallon.

Also, sign up for every gas loyalty program you can, so as to maximize points and discounts. Moreover, if you get a brand’s credit card, your first 50 gallons usually come with 30 cents off per gallon.

You should also consider getting a Costco membership for cheap gas. They have around 574 stores around the US so you’ll be able to earn the cost of a membership back by saving money on both gas and food.

5. Download parking apps – Parking costs add up — especially in cities. Use apps like BestParking and Parker to find spots and compare prices.

6. Take the bus – If driving is entirely out of the question, you can find bus tickets for as little as $1 USD from Megabus. Greyhound and Flixbus also have cheap rides all around the US. Rides under five hours are usually around $20 USD if you book early, and overnight rides usually cost $50-100. You can save big if you book in advance (often upwards of 75%!).

Don’t let the United States fool you! A road trip across the United States is a fun way to see a lot of diverse landscapes, experience different cultures, and meet interesting people. Traveling America isn’t very expensive once you are outside the big cities and you can easily travel the country on a budget by using the advice in this article.

Book Your Trip to the USA: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on the United States? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on the US for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Home » Budget Travel » How to Travel FOR FREE: No Money, No Problems!

How to Travel FOR FREE: No Money, No Problems!

It’s something I’ve never been able to fully instil in my non-travelling friends back home:  just how cheap travel can be.  The myth is that travelling the world is expensive; the reality is that it’s often cheaper than being at home. Travellers don’t pay taxes, or electricity bills, or student loans. Travellers live cheap.

So what if we took it one step further? Today, we’re talking about how to travel the world for free!

The best things in life are free, or so it’s been told. Everything we need is right here. Maybe these things are true, I’m not sure. What I do know is…

Life is as simple as we choose to make it.

Nothing in this list of tips for travelling without money is complicated (except maybe frequent flyer miles – goddamn credit cards). Everything in this guide is easy and actionable – the more you apply, the more inexpensive your travelling will be. With enough practice and ingenuity, you may even find yourself spending  $0 !

Did anyone say  “Take a vacation for free” ? Yes, me, right now! Weren’t you listening? Well, you better start because I’m about to teach you…

How to travel the world with no money…

Dis shit is gonna get cheap, yo!

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A Big, Sexy Disclaimer

Folks, this article is not about how to travel the world like a dickweed. Anyone can travel for free if they take advantage of people along the way, lying, cheating, stealing, and being an all-round douchenozzle.

Similarly, though we’ll cover some of the more crusty methods of travel, as well as tackle that sticky topic of ‘begpacking’ , THAT’S not what this article is about either.

This article is about  learning how to live a low-cost lifestyle of travel. One that’s sustainable in the long-term as well as financially independent.  Travelling until you run out of cash and move back in with your Mum or Dad is cute in your early 20s, but that’s not what we’re about at The Broke Backpacker. That’s not what a broke backpacker is .

At The Broke Backpacker, we’re about teaching you how to live a lifestyle of indefinite travel in a responsible way – responsible to the world, yourself, and those who love you. Go out, travel, see the world, and do it for as long as you like, but do it right.

Don’t begpack, don’t abuse your privilege, and don’t ever expect a handout. Free travel is NOT about exploitation; it’s about travelling without burning through your savings in a way that’s more authentic and less insipid than simply blowing your funds on all the cheap booze and drugs .

Oh, and it shouldn’t have to be said, but, please,  don’t ever go travelling with literally $0 in your bank account. That’s just bloody stupid.

The Best Ways to Travel The World with No Money

How to get a free vacation, how to travel when you’re broke, travel the world for free: is it possible, remaining tips for how to travel free, closing thoughts on free travel.

Let’s start by talking about how to travel for a living. These options for free travel mean exchanging your time and energy (i.e. working) for the freedom of being on the road. (And probably somewhere super-duper pretty too!)

Yes, ok, they aren’t all strictly ‘free trips’ but you’re away from home, not burning through your savings, and, potentially, maybe even saving some money too! If you disagree with my criteria, well, shush your face! Go travel the world for more than three years with your savings still intact like I have and then come back and we’ll argue semantics.

Still with me? Good because I want to travel the world for free and you should too!

Travel the World for Free Volunteering

Volunteering abroad for free – ahhh . This is where it all began for me and, sometimes, when it all becomes too much, it’s back with the hippies in the fields, shoes off and muddy, that I return to. For me, this will always be one of the most authentic and best ways to travel for free or otherwise.

The name of the game is simple: you work some agreed subset of hours, you get a place to sleep and food in return. Hopefully, a washing machine too!

Travelling free by way of volunteering could mean a lot of things: hostel work, farms, working with kids, charities, construction, kitten sanctuaries (god yes). The only way to find out what’s out there is to get out there! (You could also start by reading this review/guide/informational post on Workaway .)

Interested in travelling the world for free volunteering? Here are some excellent platforms:

• Workaway – The biggest in the game. Follow the link and sign up to receive an extra 3 months on your subscription!
• HelpX – The oft-forgotten cousin of Workaway.
• WWOOF – Exclusively for organic farm work.
• Talking to people – In the 21st-century? Get outta my house!
• Facebook and other platforms – Plenty of groups for this stuff but it’s best to search by the country or local area.
• Worldpackers – Follow the link or enter the code BROKEBACKPACKER to get $10 off your subscription. We’ve also reviewed Worldpackers !

Note:  Most of the platforms have an initial subscription fee (nothing in life is  truly  free). It’s a small price to pay in exchange for a year of travelling and volunteering around the world for free.

Work and Travel for Free Teaching English

If you’re reading this sentence, then you probably speak English. Awesome! Step one complete! What’s step two?

Get your TEFL certificate. With that in hand, it’s time to discover another one of the best ways to travel the world. Didja guess yet?

Yup, teaching English!

There’s a whole host of ways to get involved teaching English overseas and what an experience it is! Impart wisdom, see cute Asian kids smile (yay), and learn how to travel abroad for free. Well, not free… you’re actually earning money – oh snap!

If you want to take it a step further, you can teach English online . You’re entering the realm of the digital nomad which is certainly a different way to travel but that’s ok because – BOOM, SEGUE!

Ditch Your Desk for a Different Way to Travel

Now entering the realm of the digital nomad . If you really want to learn how to travel more, nothing will give you quite so much geographical freedom.

Anywhere your laptop (and stable internet connection goes), your source of revenue goes. Living the vanlife? Easy.

Renting a nudists-only Airbnb by a beach somewhere? Making money online is best done while tanning your best bits.

Volunteering at a kibbutz in Israel? Now you’re actually travelling for free, costs covered, WHILE earning money. Level-up!

Learning how to travel the world for a living is a whole new ball game. It’s the holy grail for many travellers but beware of the ‘grass is greener’ syndrome: it’s a lotta work and a lot to take on and, at times, your brain will hate you. Is it awesome though?

Fuck yes it is.

So, yeah, this may be stretching the how to travel for free concept but it’s an important mention for anyone looking at opportunities to travel free and extend their already indefinite adventures. Theoretically, we all gotta grow up eventually and make some cash, right?

I dunno, don’t ask me. I’m still Peter Pan-ning it up over here.

Or Just Work for Inexpensive Travelling

If a job that glues you to your laptop isn’t appealing but adopting the low-cost travel lifestyle of a working traveller is, then maybe just get a job-job. You know, one that sounds better on your Tinder profile than “influencer” .

What kind of job? Well, potential travel jobs is a long-ass list (which we conveniently have right here) , but if you’re starting from scratch and need to know how to travel the world with no money, here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Busker – Traveller-life and street performance go together like drugs and sex.
• Bartender – A extremely internationally-transferable trade and lucrative too… if you know how to bat those eyelids just right.
• Scaffolding and stage construction – Construction/labouring is good in general, but the stage construction and scaffolding industries are very international.
• Picking/Trimming – Also a lucrative industry IF you’re fast.
• Flight attendant – How to travel around the world for free 101.
• Cruise ship work – The money can be good contingent on the company and you’ll always have the added bonus of copious amounts of drugs and sex!
• Tuk-tuk races in Sri Lanka – I dunno; my cousin does them and he seems to be doin’ alright!

Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??

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Free international travel is about to get hacked! Ready to hack? It’s time to hack with these hacks!

Did I say ‘hack’ too much? Righto, moving along.

These following ways to travel the world for free are more courtesy of the convenience of the 21st-century. And, that’s exactly where we like to be.

Being a “nomad” these days is very different from what it used to be. No longer do we have to hunt elk and forage for berries in the woods – now we can just order a pizza with UberEats!

Now, we have a whole host of tools and platforms to uncover and exchange free travel opportunities!

Catch Flights Right: How to Travel Overseas for Free

It doesn’t matter how cheap you live when you arrive, you’ll still have to pay for an expensive-ass flight to get there… right? Wrong!

Learning how to catch cheap flights is going to be integral to learning how to travel without money. Error fares, mega-discounts, turning on incognito mode… booking flights does my head in – truly. I just want to travel the world; I don’t have time for this humdrum!

I’d suggest reading the above-linked post because it’s really a whole other Pandora’s Box.

To take it one step further, you can sign up with airlines to earn frequent flyer miles. Accrue enough of these and you’re looking at a cheap or even free trip overseas. A travel rewards credit card is going to stack up points in much the same way until, eventually, you get a free trip.

All of this credit stuff does my head in but the point is obvious. Do your research and find the best program to sign up in. Don’t you be wasting them points!

Or, if you’re like me and credit cards and booking flights gives you anxiety, just do what I do – overland it ! Planes are for fools; border crossings are where it’s at. And cheaper!

Apps and Platforms with Opportunities for Free Travel

Ok, now it’s really time to hack this open, right to the gooey, delicious centre. Oh, sorry, I made it weird, didn’t I?

No matter. It’s the 21st-century and now the smartphone has paved the way in much the same way that the wheel once did. These days, a lot of good platforms exist online that offer their own free ways to travel the world:

• Couchsurfing – Where to go when you have no money… to a mate’s couch! Except now all your mates are strangers and internationally based. Check out our Beginner’s Couchsurfing Guide for more info but it’s basically a platform where travellers asked to be hosted by people with a sleeping space to spare.
• Housesitting – You’ll need to build up a few references and pay a membership fee but then you can get all kinds of free accommodation… and in a private home too! Travelling by housesitting is a fantastic way to travel for free with the bonus of never having to share a hostel dorm with fatty, unshowered humans.
• Fly and swap vacations – It’s kind of like housesitting except your swapping homes with someone. That means it’s a bit more nuanced – you need to actually have a home to swap away. HomeExchange and HomeLink are two platforms that cover this.
• Au Pair – If you enjoy the company of miniature-monster-gremlins hiding in the bodies of children, then consider working as an Au Pair . Travel around the world for free, connect with a family and their spawn, and make some money too!

Yay, ok, my speciality! I may get anxiety from credit cards and fancy hotels but the broke-ass swashbuckling backpacker lifestyle is my answer to the emptiness of existence. Life gets simpler.

Real quick, these tips can be also found in our Budget Backpacking 101 article – some crossover is inevitable in the world of low-cost travel!

There’s a whole host of good advice in there if you’re not just specifically looking at how to travel for free but also at the cheapest way to travel the world. Yeah, these two posts may crossover a bit but hand-in-hand they make for some excellent reading (self-plug) if you’re dedicated to learning about how to backpack around the world with no money.

Consider this your Budget Backpacking Light.

Believe it or not, there is a lot of free food out there! The first and most common way (arguably) to eat for free is dumpster diving . People throw away a lot of perfectly edible food and useful stuff (half my wardrobe comes from late-night scores) and getting good at harnessing this awesome power of wastage is going to go a long way if you want to travel for free.

From the humble park trashcan up to the almighty power of the supermarket skip, free food is everywhere. Alternatively, you can acquire food before it hits the bin by asking for food wastage: bakeries, fruit and veg shops, food markets especially. Then there’s tablesurfing too – eating someone’s leftovers at a restaurant.

It’s an excellently fun game!

You’ve also always got food giveaways (we’ll touch on that tentative topic of begpacking in a moment) and religious shindigs too. The Hare Krishnas love, love, love feeding travellers for nothing or next to it.

I’ve eaten free Prasad in the streets of Varanasi and in Gurdwaras in Agra. There’s free food near the Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron and free bread at every turn in Jerusalem (it might be for the cats…). Hell, there’s even an online platform dedicated to helping us intrepid raccoons find excellent freegan sources (urban fruit trees are shockingly common).

The point is if you’re travelling without money, there are still heaps of ways to fill your belly. You just gotta get creative!

This one is a pretty basic tip for free travel. I’ve already mentioned Couchsurfing but option two is to just sleep where you land . It’s a big, wide world out there with ample floor space!

For this, except for truly warm and rain-free climates, you’re gonna need a few things. In my personal order of importance:

• A sexy-warm sleeping bag
• Backpacking sleeping pad (the floor is cold)
• A budget backpacking tent (you could get really nice tent but I’ve always found it to be overkill)
• A sleeping bag liner
• Or, alternatively to the tent and pad, a backpacking hammock

With a combination of these things, you can sleep free while travelling pretty much anywhere. Camp out in the woods, in urban environments, or if you think the cops will get funny about you pitching a tent, sleep under a bridge or in a bus station or abandoned building. As my dirtbag travel companion in New Zealand always said: we can sleep anywhere!

This, however, is not a commentary on safety. I’ve never had an issue but also I’m a white man covered in tattoos that looks like he sleeps with a knife in his pocket. Be smart, be safe , don’t go past your limits, and learn what a good pitch looks like.

Pro-tip: No one goes into graveyards at night. Oh, and on that note, leave no fucking trace.

Travel Free

If we’re talking the most literal definition of the term, there’s only one way to travel for free that I can think of: hitchhiking. I love hitchhiking! It’s free travel to places, you meet local people – people you never would have met otherwise – and see many worlds from the inside (or outside) of many vehicles.

Hell, sometimes people invite you over, offer to let you stay the night, or to go on an adventure. I don’t do it as much as I used to but sometimes, when I’m just needing a holiday from the work and travel life, I take a break from the tech and hit the road.

I see who picks me up and sleep where I land – no schedule, no itinerary. Simplicity at its finest. Hitchhiking is grand! And to those who question if it’s ethical – I can assure you some of my best travel memories involve those that gave me a ride.

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I guess that’s the last big question:

how to travel the world with no money? Is it really possible? Teach me sensei that hasn’t bought a new piece of clothing in almost-three-and-a-half years!

Yes! It is. Buy a plane ticket on miles, choose a visa-waiver country, hitchhike from the airport to your volunteering gig, eat only the finest cuisine from the dumpster! It’s a free year long trip !

Ok, look, that may not be your ideal vacation (free or not), but it’s a portrayal of an extreme circumstance. This isn’t a strict guide to travelling the world for free; it’s a handbook. Take what works, when it works, and apply it at will.

Practice makes perfect and pretty soon you’ll be finding that you’re having some pretty dope-ass adventures on some pretty low spendings. Hell, why not set up some passive income at home and then earn a bit while you’re volunteering abroad cheaply. (Or just Couchsurfing.)

I met a dude in New Zealand way back near the beginning and he said something very insightful.

“You don’t need a lot to travel. A plane ticket, $500, and you can be gone for a while.”

He was so right.

Why travel without money?

Because it’s fucking awesome!

Seriously, the stunning sunrises and sunsets I’ve seen only because my days hitching ended where they did. The adventures I’ve ended up on just because I was asking around for a spot of work. The things I’ve done because I was working for a bed and feed… I milked a goat once!

Learning how to start travelling abroad for free opens up a lot of doors, both in the world and in yourself. Pretty soon you start to realise that you’re pretty damn capable! That in all likelihood, you got dis.

And, on the off-chance you don’t, chances are there’ll be someone around to lend a hand.

Give it some time and you’ll start to find that there’s always somewhere to sleep and something to eat. There’s always a spot of work that needs to be done by a willing hand.

After a bit more time travelling the world without money, you may start finding you already have everything you need. If not the best, then at least some pretty insanely spectacular things are free, and, best of all…

Simplicity is so damn blissful!

“I want to travel but have no money.” – Voluntourism, begpacking, and tact.

I said we were gonna touch on this, yeah?

Voluntourism is one can of worms; one that I feel fewer people take issue with. There are some points against it, and some validity in these points, but nothing that I truly believe is able to undo the sheer amount of good that comes from people travelling through volunteering overseas.

Connections between local communities and travellers are made and something is returned while travelling around the world. It’s a symbiotic relationship – if you’re heart is equally in it for the work as it is for the free-living – and it works, usually for the best.

Begpacking gets stickier – it’s a modern-day complaint against a style of living that has existed much longer. That, somehow, choosing to travel with no money makes you self-entitled and undeserving of the kindness of strangers. However, even the name “begpacking” itself stands as a bit of a misnomer.

I’ve never “begged” for something and I don’t know anyone who has. (However, travellers who do quite literally “beg” exist and they should promptly hand in their backpacker card).

I’ve hitchhiked but I’ve never even directly asked someone for a ride. I’ve never asked someone for a place to stay and certainly never for money. I have eaten at free food giveaways but only ones that were welcoming and warm to travellers and wanted me there (sometimes, with some volunteering on the side).

Usually, if someone wants to offer you something, then that’s a gift of kindness (except when ulterior motives may be at play). As a traveller, a long way from the comfort of home, a bit of kindness goes a long way.

I know there are people out there that abuse this kindness in their attempts to get a free trip. This is a reminder not to .

It’s about having tact and moving with grace; leaving places in the world better than when you arrived. Be a little bit of good in the world wherever you go. Considering all the places you’ll go, that’s a lot of good.

If you’re choosing to travel without money, then remember that’s your choice. A long way from home or not, no one owes you a hand, so be grateful when they lend it.

Before I tie up the ‘How to Get a Free Vacation Handbook’, it’s time for the final bonus tips. These may not individually rock your boat, but together they’ll groove it a bit for sure!

• Don’t burn out – Always stressing about money, looking for the cheapest way to travel to your next destination, and racing against yourself: it can be exhausting. Don’t push yourself too hard. Take a rest sometimes, go slow, and remember that when travelling without money gets stressful, home is always waiting.
• Every country is unique – Every country has its own nuances. What food is cheap, expectations on people volunteering abroad, even the hitchhiking hand signals! It takes time to learn a new place and mistakes probably will happen so cut yourself some slack, alright?
• Mistakes do happen – On that note, so as much as free travelling around the world may be the goal, it pays to stockpile a little rainy day money. Unless you don’t mind calling in financial favours from the ‘rents.
• There’s free food in more places than the dumpster – Many countries have food growing in abundance that isn’t privately owned (or in a bin). Learning edible plants and how to forage is pretty goddamn top-tier Broke Backpacking, but it’s certainly possible.
• Know your rights volunteering – While it’s important to put the hard work in for your hosts when volunteering, it’s equally important that you aren’t being exploited either. Not all hosts are top blokes and some do seek to take advantage of backpackers. Remember that no one is doing anyone any favours: it’s an exchange.
• You’re broke but you’re not poor – This is especially true when travelling in developing nations. It does get tiresome feeling like you’re being targeted as a tourist by touts and beggars, but you are a tourist. Travelling without money doesn’t bring you down to the level of the legitimately homeless and impoverished; one party chose to be there, the other did not. Just keep that in mind.

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Oh, and one last tip… Get insured before embarking on your free travel adventure!

Yeah, ok, insurance isn’t free (or cheap) but when you’re lying in a hospital bed with some truly astounding food poisoning from the dumpster diving, at least your treatment will be! Seriously, travel insurance is a super important consideration for any journey.

Members of The Broke Backpacker team have been using SafetyWing for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re an easy to use and professional provider that the team swears by.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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You don’t need a lot of money to travel: that’s the takeaway! Maybe eventually you’ll need some money so leaving the country with $0 in the bank account isn’t necessarily smart. That said, I have a friend that got his working visa in Australia by photoshopping his bank statement, so, really, anything is possible!

Even if the low-cost world traveller game isn’t for you, I still think everyone should try it once. It changes your perspective a lot.

It changes your perspective on the idea of what you need and what you need to be happy; on what is possible. I have a friend that lost it all in Australia (a different friend) and spent months as a hammock-hobo in Melbourne. He says it was the happiest time of his life.

I can relate. My first experience travelling still remains some of my sweetest memories. It was free travel in New Zealand – a smelly backpacking vagabond volunteering, hitching, busking, dumpster diving, and sleeping in parks – and It taught me how beautiful life is. It taught me how kind people are and how simple things can be, should we so choose.

Gratitude turns what we have into enough.

To close, I’d like to repeat what a friend said to me today as we bid farewell (at another hippy farm). He said:

“No, I won’t wish you ‘safe travels’ because everywhere you go, you are safe. You have a good heart and many adventures ahead. I wish you to be free because that is the most important thing.”

And I smiled because I understood (and because he’d just written my outro for me). That’s all it is: be free, travel the world with a good heart, and learn what joy there is in nothing. You don’t need anything to learn how to travel for free.

And you don’t need money to travel.

Ziggy Samuels

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16 Comments

Awesome article for traveller specially who has low budget. Wonderful Insight.

Hey, great blog, read it like 3 times already!!! One question though…do you also get jobs ‘under the table’ with tourist Visa? Cause everyone talks about working and traveling to finance their further travels, but nobody talks about Visa issues. Could I work for a bit of money (whatever crappy job) with a tourist Visa/Visa waiver? And would people actually accept my work for cash on the hand, or can you actually find people who would accept your work for them although it could cause trouble because of the ‘under the table’ issue? Cause Work and travel Visa is too expensive for a broke gal like me and one year a long time for one country. I’m talking more about the ‘getting a bit of cash for travel’ kinda thing. Answers would be so so appreciated. Greetings from germany Svenja

People find, and will continue to find all sort of ways to make it work, Svenja… and so will you I’m sure. Some countries do have very strong rules against this type of thing tho, so it may be better looking for other things to trade for, such as food, accommodation, transport.

Wonderful and surprising information, Thank you

What a blog! Very funny and different, I was delighted with this wonderful content.

😀 dumpster eating

Thank you so much for sharing all this wonderful info with us! It is so appreciated and I would suggest you travel once to India

Hahah guess where that first picture of me in the tree is taken? Gokarna, baby! 😀

now i know how to travel, the next thing that is left is how to have guts to travel lol

Just do it, dude – you got this!!! All you gotta do is take the first step :)))

Is panhandling, begging/scamming arrogant rich backpackers and sneaking into peoples bushes/fields to sleep considered douchebaggery?

Scamming people is morally deplorable on every level.

As for sleeping in peoples fields and bushes, well as long as you remember the “leave no trace” principle.

Ziggy Samuels, it is very courageous of you to be able to travel like this. Besides, in the middle of the way, find good people to help you, even without asking. Good luck in this adventure that in a way is the best freedom.

Thanking you kindly, Sam – Perhaps it’s equal parts courage and stupidiity 😉 You’re 100% right though. There are good and kind people everywhere, and often, travel wouldn’t be possible (nor nearly as special) without them.

Last year i traveled for Australia for volunteering work and i can say it was one of the best experience of my life without any cost.

One good App for volunteering work is Workaway and it was that i used.

Interesting, I never thought that one can travel so easily without expenses a penny. But few ideas are really I think works like “volunteering the work” helps one to travel without any cost. I’m curious to check how this work. You shared some great ideas here to work on…Thank you for sharing such wonderful post.

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• For U.S. Citizens/Lawful Permanent Residents
• Know Before You Go
• When You Return

What to Expect When You Return

Complete the cbp declaration form 6059b.

You have several entry options once you return from your trip. All travelers must complete a CBP Declaration Form 6059B itemizing all purchased merchandise and agricultural products.

Here are your options:

• Complete a paper form that may be obtained at the port of entry or on the flight or cruise.
• Complete the online form at a Global Entry kiosk. (Only preapproved Global Entry members are allowed to use these kiosks.)
• Complete the online form at an Automated Passport Control kiosk.

Keeping all your purchase receipts handy in an envelope in your carry-on bag will ease this process. If warranted, the CBP officer will calculate the duties to pay on your newly acquired goods.

Paying Duties

Personal exemptions that do not require the traveler to pay duty will be $200, $800 or $1600 depending on the countries you visited.

The duty-free exemptions ($200, $800, or $1600) apply if:

• The items are for your personal or household use or intended to be given as gifts.
• Merchandise is in your possession, that is, it accompanies you when you return to the United States. Items to be sent later may not be included in your duty-free exemption. (Exceptions apply for goods sent from Guam or the U.S. Virgin Islands.)
• Merchandise is declared to CBP. If you do not declare something that should have been declared, you risk forfeiting the item. If in doubt, declare it.
• You are returning from an overseas stay of at least 48 hours. This time limit does not apply if you are returning from Mexico or from the U.S. Virgin Islands.
• You have not used all of your exemption allowance, or used any part of it, in the past 30 days. For example, if you go to England and bring back $150 worth of items, you must wait another 30 days before you are allowed another exemption.
• The items are not prohibited or restricted as discussed in the section on Prohibited and Restricted Items. Before departing on your trip, check the latest information for the full list of prohibited and restricted items on the U.S. Department of the Treasury Cuba Sanctions website, as well as other related government resources.

Duty free exemption limits depend on the country or countries you visit and the length of stay. Learn which rates apply to the goods your purchase on your trip - call the CBP attaché at the country's U.S. embassy.

Your CBP Interview

To keep our borders secure and our nation safe, CBP must inspect everyone who arrives at a U.S. port of entry. The CBP officers are authorized to ask you questions about your trip and your personal background, including:

• Your citizenship
• The nature of your trip
• Anything you are bringing back to the United States that you did not have when you left.

Officers have legal authority to search you, your baggage or your vehicle. If asked to, place your opened baggage on the exam station. After the exam, you will be asked to repack and close your baggage.

CBP pledges to treat you courteously and professionally. If at any point you are unhappy with your treatment, ask to speak to a CBP supervisor. You may also call the CBP INFO Center at 877-227-5511. If calling within the United States, call 202-325-8000 or go to www.cbp.gov and click on Questions/Comments.

Budget Travel Buff

25 Cheapest Ways to Travel in The USA on a Budget

Planning on a vacation is not as easy as it seems, especially when you know your budget is limited. If you have ever dreamed of driving along the cliffs overlooking the Pacific with the windows down or have always wanted to travel the historic Oregon Trail sitting in a car instead of your computer screen, congratulations; you are not alone.

The query on how to travel in the US on a budget remains constant. Provided, how extensive the stretches of the US are, and considering the fact that there are so many places to visit, it might actually be a bit hard to stay on budget if you don’t work out a plan. So, if you too are worried about the same, we are here to help.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay any extra penny, but I’ll get a small commission that encourages me to deliver more helpful content for you.

This article is solely meant to help you out with the cheapest ways to travel in the USA . It will guide you with every detail you need to know if you want to stay on budget while traveling through the US. Therefore, in order to discover these budget-friendly deals, go ahead and give this article a read.

Best Ways to Travel Cheap in The US

If you think that planning out the cheapest way to travel in the USA is the next to impossible task, you are wrong. If you are on a strict budget, follow the below listed ways to travel for cheap across the US:

Table of Contents

1. consider renting a car instead of driving on your own or go for a driveway.

For traveling cheaply in the US, you can rent a car because that would cost you either the same or even less sometimes. Renting a car is much more fuel-efficient and it will also help you save money over the course of a long trip. You may rent a car with Rentalcars , an international car rental booking service that is present all over the world.

But if you don’t appreciate the idea of going for rental cars, you can try a driveway. For the driveways, they will give you a car and a designated route that is usually between two major cities and you can drive the car.

We rented a car during our Switzerland trip and truly renting a car was far cheaper than traveling with Swiss trains .

2.  Try investing in a train pass

Investing in a train pass is undoubtedly one of the cheapest ways of transportation. These train passes usually come for a trip of 30 or 45 days. The prices vary but it starts from $449. If you don’t want to use public transport at each stop on your tour, train passes will do right by you.

3.  Consider traveling by bus

If you are looking for the cheapest way to travel around the US, you might consider traveling by bus. If your trip around the US is primarily focused on city hopping and is around one region, traveling by bus might be the best option. It is a cheaper option and easier too.

Find and book bus tickets with Busbud , an online bus-booking platform that has compiled the world’s largest selection of bus tickets.

4.  Use obscure search methods if you are flying

Applying hacks to find budget airlines before booking your flight for traveling across the US is always a better option. Try using tools like Google Flights, Airfarewatchdog or WayAway for getting cheaper flight results. You can even go for various other foreign sites that have turned up cheaper rates in comparison to big booking names. There are a variety of travel apps available in the market which allows you to even pre-book your flights at cheaper rates.

5.  Try signing up for discounts

In order to make sure that your travel experience across the US is inexpensive, you can try signing up for discounts. We all know that America is not known to be the land of budget airlines. That is why you have to take advantage of the few that you can have.

You can either try signing up through coupon emails . Otherwise, if you are going to take multiple flights during your trip, you can even join fare clubs that offer huge savings to their members.

Also, subscribe for price alerts that will be sent directly to your email address – to do that click on “ create price alert ” on wayaway.io when searching for the tickets.

6.  Use a travel credit card

If you sign up for a travel credit card , you can enjoy a signup bonus in the form of airline miles. This will be enough to fund your cross-country expedition. These cards also come with added benefits such as welcome gifts, travel insurance, zero liabilities on lost cards, annual fee waiver,  complimentary airport lounge access , and much more.

You may also get a membership plan from WayAway with 10% off and enjoy cash back from Booking.com, GetYourGuide, BlueRibbonBags and 9 other brands.

7.  Consider dining downstairs

In order to be on a strict budget while traveling across the US, you have to save money on food. Dining downstairs is undoubtedly one of the best inclusions on the cheapest way to travel in the United States. If you feel like eating out, you can head down to the basement sections because entrees are much cheaper over there. If you have listed fancy eaters on your must-do list, try going to have lunch in the top-notch restaurants instead of dinner or go and sip a drink from the bar.

8.  Buy your own groceries

If you think that you can’t make your own meals just because you have not rented a condo, then you are having a misconception. Try going to a hotel that comes with a mini-fridge and visit the nearby grocery store. You can easily make soup in the hotel room with coffee makers or even try making paninis with the iron provided. If possible, you can bring your own mini rice cooker (even you can find it in some hotel kitchen) to the trip, and voila! You have won the trip.

9.  Get food to go

If you have chosen to eat in a place just because of its food and not because of enjoying the ambiance of the place, then go for ordering takeout to minimize the tipping. You can later enjoy your food in the midst of any free attractions that the US has to offer. Thereby, you can enjoy doubles at the same time. After all, who would not prefer having delicacies right in the middle of a pretty park or amidst nature in front of the waterfalls .

10.  Take advantage of the great American gas station

One of the cheapest ways to travel in the USA is to take advantage of the American gas station. You can make your own milkshake with the help of the machines provided.

Gas stations have steadily evolved into cultural centerpieces of the destinations they continue to serve. You can make a list of on-the-road recipe ideas that you can make from things available at the gas station. Therefore, if you are in the US, wondering how to save money on food , this has to be one of the topmost solutions.

11. Get a Federal Recreation pass

You can enjoy free entrees to National Parks, national wildlife refuges, national forests, and more for yourself and three of your friends on just a budget of $80 with a Federal Recreation Pass . It is undoubtedly one of the best deals in the entire country. Most of these spots are already some of the bucket list destinations of everyone on vacation. You can even go camping once you are inside.

12.  Go volunteering

There are several programs that allow you to volunteer in the outdoors in exchange for free lodging . Therefore, by being a volunteer you can easily save money on accommodation . You can do short-term species control in various forests and easily score a room in a rustic bunkhouse.

You can even join in one of the multiple forest services such as restoring an old water mill in the Ozarks in exchange for a tent space and three square meals a day. In this way, you can easily explore multiple corners in the US while saving money both on food and lodging.

13.  Road trip through several free attractions cities in the US

If you want to visit California on a budget , you might try going on a Pacific Coast Highway road trip with your partner and enjoy the scenic view of the sea and the beautiful landscape on the way. The equation suited for perfect sightseeing in several cities is pretty much equal to attractions along with the ambiance.

You can pick a city that is rich in both, such as D.C, Washington, New Orleans, where the memorials, monuments, Natural History Museum, National Zoo, shopping districts, etc., are always open to exploring and are also free of charge.

The Arts District, French Quarter, and live music around every corner in New Orleans, and San Antonio make up for some of the most beautiful attractions in the US that are free of cost. There are plenty of budget-friendly places to travel in the US . You just need to do research well in advance before visiting any city, hence you can travel across the US at cheap.

Read Also : Th e Ultimate Guide to Big Sur Road Trip Itinerary with 13 Stops

14.  Go for a bike tour

If you have already made up a list of the places to travel solo in the US , you can try going for a bike tour. Biking allows you to save on transportation and have an endless source of daytime entertainment which is a win-win situation. If you are conducive to exploring on wheels, try visiting Portland, Minneapolis, and Boulder. ou may rent a bike here .

15. Let an app plan for you

There are various travel apps that make traveling much cheaper these days. These apps help you plan a day on the basis of free happenings and deals. Some of them let you buy tickets to concerts and check in with the help of your phone itself. You can enjoy some of the best deals and ideas in the city of your choice with the help of these apps.

16. Visit during off-seasons to get cheaper deals

The best time to travel in the US is during spring (late March to late May) or autumn(late September to late October). These are the shoulder seasons before and after summer, for which the temperature remains mild. But in order to enjoy the best deals, it is recommended to visit during the off-seasons which means the months of December to February.

Since the temperatures fall in several parts of the country, the number of tourists falls. That is why it is better to visit during this season to get cheaper deals on lodging such as in hostels and hotels. I will highly recommend to check out Cozycozy which is basically a metasearch engine that offers you the best possible deal from 100+ sites like Airbnb, Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Hotels.com, etc.

17. Choose your destination carefully

Before choosing a city to visit, you must check your options carefully. Prefer going to places which come with public transport and walking. If you can skip cities like LA, you will save money by avoiding expensive Uber and other taxi fares. Walking is undoubtedly one of the best ways to explore a city while saving a considerable amount. It will help you stumble on some of the best and most fantastic views that the place has to offer.

If you are a budget traveler, check out our ultimate list of the best and cheap travel backpacks .

Traveling often? 🤑

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18. Try joining the Couchsurfing movement

Couchsurfing has turned out to be the ultimate hipster movement nowadays. It allows you to scan couches, beds, and air mattresses, available in your preferred destinations, often for free once you have completed your profile. It also allows you to surf local pals who engage in giving you free tours of their hometowns.

19. Get your own CityPASS

Getting a CityPASS comes with several benefits because it allows you to pay prices for all of the most popular attractions in a city in one go. These passes are available for several cities such as Chicago, New York City, Southern California, Atlanta, etc. These passes can save you at least 30-40% on the entry prices. I recommend booking your CityPASS in advance here .

20. Travel smartly

In order to travel cheaply, you should avoid flying on weekends and holidays because the fare is usually high for the tourist rush. Try traveling with just carry-on luggage since that can save you almost 30$-40$ each time you fly . Also, plan your travel mainly around the major cities and prefer using buses, planes, and trains.

21. Go and stay in the actual YMCA

Hostel culture is not as popular in the US as it is in European and Asian countries. Therefore, you can avoid those seedy side-alley spots by hosteling at YMCA. Choosing to stay in the YMCA is considered to be a smart option if you are in New York.

22. Try renting a room in a real house

Renting a room in someone’s apartment can save travelers up to 50% of their money in comparison to renting a room in a hotel. You will save on the base price of the room and also get additional access to a kitchen, washing machine, and bathroom . Also, seeing America through the eyes of the people who live there has to be the best possible option.

23. Make use of Priceline and Hotwire

These systems are known for saving up to 600$ for a two-week trip. The wheeling and dealing is also pretty fun in these systems. All you need to do is provide the site with your location, dates, desired hotel star rating, and price that you can afford. If the bid gets accepted, then the site sends your information to the assigned hotel room. You would not know the name of the hotel that you are going to stay in before the booking is completed but you can enjoy huge discounts through these systems.

24. Go camping with KOA

KOA runs around 500 privately-owned campgrounds in the U.S and Canada. Their app lets you find and book campgrounds right from your car. The campsites are not even that expensive. Yet you can save up to 10% if you use their value cards.

25. Save money on transportation

Here are a few ways how to travel cheap in America and save money:

• Try visiting fewer places
• Go for off-peak travel
• Ensure advance bookings
• Try car rentals from non-airport locations
• Go for public cycle hire programs
• Use travel passes and travel cards

Final Words

If you were wondering about the cheapest way to travel in the USA, this article must have proved to be a boon for you. This article has successfully listed some of the most cost-effective methods to travel across famous destinations in the US. You can easily implement these methods if you are a budget travel buff or solo backpacker and want to visit the major cities in the US while being on a tight budget. So, what’s stopping you? Plan for your next vacation, apply these budget travel tips, and enjoy your trip without breaking your bank.

F requently Asked Questions

1. how to travel across the us for free.

A : You can easily travel across the US for free by driving across the country in someone else’s car. This is referred to as a driveway or an auto-delivery service. By the way, you might need to pay for things like gas and car delivery services, but the services offer a next-to-nothing alternative for renting.

2. What is the cheapest State to travel to in the United States?

A : In case you are looking for the cheapest state to visit in the United States, you must give New Orleans, Louisiana, and Boston, Massachusetts a try because they are known to be cheaper than the other places to visit in the US.

4. How much money do I need to travel across the US?

A : An average budget for traveling across the US is between $100 and $250 per day. However, the amount keeps varying based on your travel style, your locations and durations, and the places you visit or choose to visit.

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Located on the eastern border of south-central California, Death Valley National Park is one of the largest National Parks in the USA. Death Valley has its extremities, at one end it is the driest and hottest, and at the other, it also has the lowest elevation of the continent almost around 282 feet below sea…

6 Cheap Visa Free Countries to Visit from India in 2023

For people like me, who are always finding a scope to travel, the most crucial part while deciding the next trip destination is the Budget. And another thing that really bothers an avid traveler is the visa process to travel to foreign countries that really takes a lot of time. The good news is 52…

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This article is a treasure trove of cost-saving tips for traveling within the USA. The author provides practical advice on finding budget-friendly transportation options, including tips on scoring cheap flights, utilizing affordable bus services, and exploring the country by train. Whether you’re planning a cross-country adventure or a city-hopping trip, these money-saving strategies will help you make the most of your travel budget while exploring the diverse wonders of the United States.

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Our passport agencies and centers :

• Process all applications we receive from acceptance facilities and by mail, and
• Serve customers by appointment only who have urgent travel to a foreign country in the next 14 calendar days, or need a foreign visa in the next 28 calendar days

The U.S. Department of State runs each passport agency and center. An agency and center is different than acceptance facilities which may include post offices, libraries, and local government offices.

Avoid the stress of needing to visit a passport agency or center for urgent travel. Apply early at an  acceptance facility  or  renew by mail .

Steps to Make an Appointment for Urgent Travel

I have not yet applied.

Follow these steps to make an appointment:

• Go to our  Online Passport Appointment System .
• Enter information about your travel plans to see if you qualify for an appointment. You may make an appointment for up to seven members of your household.
• Enter your email address. We will email you a code which you must enter to continue making an appointment. Check your junk or spam folder if you do not see the code in your inbox.
• Enter your mobile phone number. We will send you a text message with another code you must enter to continue making an appointment.
• Complete the process of scheduling your appointment. 
• Check your email for a message confirming the details of your appointment. The system will hold your appointment for 15 minutes. If you do not confirm your appointment within 15 minutes, you will need to start over.
• If you need to cancel or change the appointment, click the link in the confirmation email to get information about your appointment. 

I have already applied

• Call  1-877-487-2778  from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Mondays through Fridays, or on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Se habla español. 

If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call  1-888-874-7793  for TDD/TTY teletype services. 

• We will provide you unique information that we will check on the day of your appointment to confirm your appointment is legitimate. If you are not the appointment holder, the passport agency or center will not be able to see you.
• If you need to cancel or change your appointment, please call us. We will give your appointment to a new customer calling to make an appointment. You cannot transfer your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i know which location is processing my application and has my documents.

The first two digits of your nine-digit passport application locator number allow you to know which agency or center is working on your application. You can find your application locator number by checking our Online Passport Status System . 

How and when should I contact a passport agency or center by mail?

You can find an agency or center's mailing address on each agency or center webpage. You can contact our locations by mail if:

We sent you a letter : If we need more information to process your application , we will send you a letter in the mail. Send the information to the full mailing address in Sterling, VA listed on your letter. Do not send information to the agency’s physical address.

Map of Passport Office Locations

Make an appointment at a passport agency or center.

We have two types of appointments: Life-or-Death Emergency Service and Urgent Travel Service . You cannot walk-in. 

Not Yet Applied : Make an appointment online

Already Applied : Call  1-877-487-2778 . Se habla español.

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How to get a certified copy of a death certificate

Many organizations require a certified copy of the death certificate when someone dies. How you get copies depends on whether the person died in the U.S. or abroad.

Death in the U.S.: how to get a certified copy of a death certificate

Contact the vital records office of the state where the death occurred to learn:

• How to order a certified copy of a death certificate online, by mail, or in-person
• How to get a copy fast
• The cost for each certified copy

Can anyone get a copy of a death certificate?

Only certain family members may be able to obtain a death certificate when someone dies. This includes a spouse, siblings, and children. But death certificates can be requested by anyone when they become public record. In some states, death certificates are released 25 or more years after death. Check with your state’s vital records office to find out when death certificates become public record.

When to use a certified copy or a photocopy

You will need to purchase a certified copy of the death certificate for tasks such as:

• Notifying the Social Security Administration and other government agencies
• Closing or transferring credit cards and bank accounts
• Claiming a person's life insurance or pension

You may only need a photocopy for other tasks, such as canceling a subscription. Check with the agency or organization handling each account.

Death of a U.S. citizen abroad: how to get death records

When a U.S. citizen dies in another country, the U.S. embassy or consulate should get a death certificate or notification from the foreign government. It will then issue a  Consular Report of Death Abroad (CRDA) . Use the CRDA in the U.S. as proof of death for closing accounts and handling legal tasks.

You can get up to 20 free certified copies at the time of death.  Order more copies of the CRDA from the Department of State.

Find more resources to help you settle your loved one's affairs.

Dealing with the death of a loved one

LAST UPDATED: January 30, 2024

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