Traveling to the United States doesn’t have to be expensive. With smart planning, budget accommodations, and the right transportation choices, you can explore America’s most iconic destinations without breaking the bank.

This budget-friendly USA itinerary is designed for first-time visitors, backpackers, and cost-conscious travelers who want the full American experience at a reasonable price—complete with a clear cost breakdown so you know exactly what to expect.

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Overview: Budget USA Travel Itinerary

Duration: 10 Days
Best For: Budget travelers, solo travelers, students
Travel Style: Public transport + budget flights + affordable stays
Cities Covered:

• New York City
• Washington, D.C.
• Las Vegas
• Los Angeles

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Day 1–3: New York City on a Budget

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New York offers plenty of free and low-cost attractions.

Free & Cheap Things to Do:

• Walk through Central Park
• Cross Brooklyn Bridge
• Visit Times Square
• Ride the Staten Island Ferry (free Statue of Liberty views)

Budget Tips:

• Eat from food carts ($5–10)
• Use a 7-day MetroCard
• Stay in hostels or budget hotels in Queens or Brooklyn

Daily Cost (NYC):

• Accommodation: $40–70
• Food: $25–35
• Transport: $10
• Attractions: $10–20

Daily Total: $85–135

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Day 4–5: Washington, D.C. (America’s Best Budget City)

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Travel from NYC to D.C. by bus or train.

Why D.C. Is Budget-Friendly:

• All Smithsonian museums are free
• Walkable landmarks
• Affordable food options

Must-See Spots:

• National Mall
• Lincoln Memorial
• White House (outside)
• Smithsonian Air & Space Museum

Daily Cost (D.C.):

• Accommodation: $35–60
• Food: $25–30
• Transport: $8
• Attractions: $0–10

Daily Total: $70–105

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Day 6–7: Las Vegas (Budget Entertainment Capital)

Fly from D.C. to Las Vegas using a low-cost airline.

Free Attractions:

• Las Vegas Strip walk
• Bellagio Fountain Show
• Fremont Street Experience
• Hotel hopping

Budget Tip:

Stay off-Strip or in downtown Vegas for cheaper hotels.

Daily Cost (Vegas):

• Accommodation: $35–65
• Food: $20–30
• Transport: $10
• Attractions: $10–20

Daily Total: $75–125

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Day 8–10: Los Angeles on a Budget

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Travel from Las Vegas to Los Angeles by bus or budget flight.

Free & Cheap Attractions:

• Hollywood Walk of Fame
• Griffith Observatory
• Venice Beach
• Santa Monica Pier

Budget Tip:

Use buses + metro, and stay in hostels near Hollywood or Koreatown.

Daily Cost (LA):

• Accommodation: $40–70
• Food: $25–35
• Transport: $10
• Attractions: $10–15

Daily Total: $85–130

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Total USA Budget Cost Breakdown (10 Days)

Category	Estimated Cost
Accommodation	$400 – $650
Transportation (Flights + Buses)	$350 – $600
Food	$250 – $350
Attractions	$80 – $150
Total Trip Cost	$1,100 – $1,750

👉 This budget excludes international flights.

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How to Save Money While Traveling in the USA

• Book domestic flights early
• Use buses (Megabus, Greyhound, FlixBus)
• Eat where locals eat
• Choose free attractions and city passes
• Travel during shoulder seasons

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Best Time to Visit the USA on a Budget

• April–May: Good weather, lower prices
• September–October: Fewer crowds, cheaper hotels
• Avoid: Peak summer & major holidays

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FAQs – USA Itinerary on a Budget

Q1: Can I really travel the USA on a budget?

Yes. With careful planning, public transport, and free attractions, the USA can be surprisingly affordable.

Q2: What is the cheapest city to visit in the USA?

Washington, D.C. is one of the cheapest due to free museums and landmarks.

Q3: Is public transport reliable in the USA?

Yes, in major cities. Long distances are best covered by budget flights or buses.

Q4: Is food expensive in the USA?

Restaurant dining can be pricey, but street food, fast-casual spots, and supermarkets are affordable.

Q5: How much money should I budget per day?

Budget travelers can manage on $80–120 per day excluding international flights.

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Final Thoughts

This USA itinerary on a budget proves that you don’t need luxury hotels or expensive tours to experience America. With smart choices, flexible travel, and a focus on free attractions, you can enjoy world-famous cities, culture, and landscapes at a fraction of the cost.

Travel smart, not expensive.