Top 6 Travel Destinations That Are Much More Affordable in the Summer
4 min read
According to Deloitte’s 2024 summer travel report, Americans are still planning on traveling despite financial concerns caused by inflated prices. About 48% of respondents stated they’ll be taking a summer trip involving paid lodging. However, the number of nontravelers jumped to 34% of respondents, with cost being the biggest barrier to leaving home.
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While costs are high, there are travel destinations that are much more affordable in the summer than in the winter months. If visiting new places without breaking your budget interests you, these locations are worth considering.
Erika Pacini, head of marketing at Outdoorplay, talked to GOBankingRates about six of these affordable travel destinations and shared rough pricing estimates for each.
Lake Tahoe
“Lake Tahoe straddling the California-Nevada border is renowned for hosting winter sports, but it offers the same amount of adventure during summer seasons,” Pacini said.
Hiking and mountain biking trails offer great experiences during the summer months. You can also enjoy the lake if you’re a fan of water sports. During the off-season, you can find a much more affordable cabin or campsite for your family vacation compared with the winter months.
How do the prices compare?
Winter: A week of accommodation can cost around $2,000 to $3,000 (including ski passes and other winter activities).
Summer: You can expect to spend between $1,200 and $1,500 (with many free activities available).
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Chamonix, France
If you want to experience Europe, you can think about visiting Chamonix in France, a destination famous for its ski slopes and snowboarding facilities. However, the slopes turn into a hiker’s haven in the summer, and you can spend time with your family here at a lower price.
“The trails around Mont Blanc offer an amazing view and thrilling experiences at one-fourth of [the] winter price. Mountain huts allow those who plan multiday treks to stay without spending a fortune,” Pacini said.
The warmer months will allow you to enjoy the hiking trails and alpine surroundings, making for an enjoyable trip without breaking your budget.
How do the prices compare?
Winter: There are different prices, but a weeklong trip could cost approximately $1,500 to $2,500.
Summer: You could spend anything from around $1,000 to $1,500 over a comparable time frame.
Niseko, Japan
“In Japan, Niseko is always associated with virgin powder that attracts skiers from all over the world,” Pacini said. “However, in summer, it becomes rich green lands for hiking and mountain biking.”
Luckily, you can enjoy the hot springs in the same way during the summer months when they’re not as crowded and the prices aren’t as high. You can also save money during the summer because there won’t be any lift tickets or winter gear to worry about.
How do the prices compare?
Winter: A one-week winter trip may range from around $2,500 to $3,500.
Summer: Expect to pay approximately $1,200 to $1,800.
Queenstown, New Zealand
“Queenstown is another winter destination that becomes a more affordable option during summer,” Pacini said.
As one of the adventure capitals of the world, Queenstown offers endless opportunities to go bungee jumping or try other activities during the summer months. You can also try hiking, taking a Milford Sound tour or visiting the surrounding area.
How do the prices compare?
Winter: A trip with activities like skiing and snowboarding may cost $2,500 to $3,500 a week.
Summer: You could spend between $1,000 and $2,000 for a week.
Whistler, British Columbia
Whistler, British Columbia, is a popular winter ski resort destination that opens in the summer for hiking and mountain biking. Winter travel costs could be exorbitant due to accommodations and lift tickets. If you visit during the summer, you can save money while enjoying many activities, like biking through the mountains and relaxing at the lakes.
“The breathtaking views remain the same without the expensive winter rates,” Pacini said. “There are reasonably priced campsites and summer lodges to choose from if you want to be near where everything is happening.”
How do the prices compare?
Winter: A one-week winter vacation may cost between $1,700 and $3,000.
Summer: This might cost between $1,200 and $1,800 a week.
White Mountains, New Hampshire
“The White Mountains in New Hampshire, which are famous for their winter activities, have several miles of hiking trails, including one part of the Appalachian Trail,” Pacini said. “Fewer people visit during summers.”
You can save money on your summer vacation by booking cheaper lodging and participating in free outdoor activities for the family. The prices will differ based on your travel style, personal preferences and the activities you want to do.
How do the prices compare?
Winter: A one-week trip in winter may range from $1,200 to $2,000.
Summer: Expect to pay about $800 to $1,200 a week.
There are many ideal winter destinations that come with a high price tag, but the good news is that you can save money and still explore these places by visiting during summer.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Top 6 Travel Destinations That Are Much More Affordable in the Summer
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