How to Save on Your Trip to Colorado

Known for its snow-covered Rocky Mountains, diverse landscapes, hot springs, river canyons, and so many other scenic views, Colorado is a top destination choice of many, especially the backpackers. Aside from the beautiful city of Denver, there are other great places to see in the State, such as the Breckenridge, Vail, and Steamboat Springs.

But all these come with a price. Slightly more than what most travelers could afford.

Traveling to Colorado can be as expensive as living there. The increasing urban development, along with the growing number of residents moving from various states, the cost of living in this state is higher than the national average (although lower than California and Massachusetts).

But that doesn’t mean you can’t have a budget-friendly vacation in Colorado. Whether you’re spending your savings or the money you get from payday loans over the phone on trip costs, there are ways to pull cut back on your travel expenses. With a few tips and tricks, you can maximize your stay in this beautiful state without going bankrupt!

Time your trip

The best time to visit Colorado is during the off-season. If you’re visiting Denver, schedule your flight around April through May and September through October as there are fewer tourists, comfortable temperatures, and lower accommodation prices. Summer season, which is from June to August, is the peak season and the hotel rates are most likely higher than usual. If you’re off to Colorado to ski, book a resort or a mountain slope ahead of time. Avoid prime seasons like Christmas and Martin Luther King Day holidays. You can get substantial discounts if you opt for off-season skiing.

Seek out affordable adventures

There is so much to see and experience in Colorado without breaking your bank. Some of the affordable destinations are the Great Sand Dunes National Park which only charges tourists $15 per car, Mountain Bliss in Breckenridge with summer lodging deals starting at $119 per night, and Montrose where you will find Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park at only $15 per vehicle.

Skip the hotels

A big portion of your vacation budget will likely go towards your accommodation. Hotels might be your primary option when searching for where to stay in Colorado. But did you know you could save a lot of money by choosing to stay at hostels, huts, and tiny homes? Take time researching for affordable accommodation in Colorado and you will surely find one. Also, when choosing a place to stay, consider its accessibility to the destinations you wish to visit. This will not only save you time but money as well. Check for family deals. If you’re traveling with your spouse and kids, always ask for discounted rates, free meals for children, discounted upgrades of rooms, etc.

Skip the big restaurants

Denver may be one of the most expensive cities in the country but that doesn’t mean you can’t find places to eat and have a cheap yet filling, satisfying meal. Other hacks to save money on food is splitting the cost if you’re traveling with other people, bring snacks along with you, take advantage of the free breakfast at your chosen accommodation, and dine like a local. The last one is the most exciting one because you really get to taste great-tasting authentic dishes.

Take advantage of the FREE stuff

Did you know there are fun activities you can do in Colorado for free? Yes. That’s right. Aside from exploring Colorado’s free city parks and trails, you can also visit the famous Denver Art Museum or the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, see animals at the Denver Zoo, and tour a brewery and drink beer – all for free! They also have Art Walk events where you can watch live music, demonstrations, and entertainment without paying anything.

Visit a Colorado State Park

There are 41 state parks in Colorado. From hiking and trekking to camping, boating, water skiing, swimming, and bird watching – there are so many fun activities to do in Colorado with your friends and family.

Avoid souvenir shops

Don’t feel obligated to buy expensive souvenirs for your friends or family. Most people are more than happy to get a scenic postcard from you, which features some of the best places you visited in Colorado.

Colorado is truly a top choice for many travelers. If you’re seeking fun, adventure, nature, and cultural attractions, Colorado is one of the best places to visit. The state has so much to offer, from the beautiful landscapes and mountainous views to the skiing resorts and delicious food hubs, you will surely have a great time in Colorado. And the best thing is? You don’t have to spend a fortune. You can enjoy your vacation while not going overboard with your budget.