Budget-Friendly Weekend Getaways: Where to Stay and Save

A weekend getaway doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With a little smart planning and the right tools, you can enjoy a refreshing escape without overspending on accommodations. Whether you’re heading to a nearby city, a quiet countryside retreat, or a coastal destination, knowing how to find affordable lodging — and stack extra savings — is key.

Let’s explore how to stretch your budget and make the most of your next short trip.

Pick Destinations with Off-Peak Rates

Some destinations are naturally more affordable for weekend trips, especially those that aren’t typical tourist hotspots. Secondary cities or regions that cater to business travelers often see lower hotel rates on weekends, when corporate stays dip.

For example, a quick look at Booking.com or Expedia can reveal excellent weekend rates in urban centers like Chicago, Dallas, or Atlanta — cities that balance cultural attractions with wallet-friendly lodging options.

Leverage Cashback Apps for Extra Savings

Before you book, open your favorite cashback app. Fluz, Rakuten, and Ibotta are excellent companions when planning a budget-friendly weekend trip.

Fluz lets you buy gift cards for hotel brands or travel platforms and earn instant cashback, effectively reducing the cost of your stay right away. For example, if you plan to book through Expedia, purchase an Expedia gift card via Fluz to grab immediate savings before you even check out.

Rakuten often features cash-back offers for popular hotel booking sites like Hotels.com and Booking.com, while Ibotta occasionally highlights seasonal travel deals worth stacking on top of discounts.

By combining these apps, you can layer savings and stretch your getaway budget further.

Consider Short-Term Rentals for More Value

Short-term rentals on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are excellent choices for weekend trips, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends. These options often come with full kitchens, allowing you to save on dining out, and may offer lower nightly rates than hotels in the same area.

Before you book, compare total costs, including cleaning fees and service charges, to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

Book Last-Minute for Steep Discounts

If you’re flexible with your plans, last-minute bookings can pay off. Many hotels lower prices as the weekend approaches to fill unsold rooms. Apps like HotelTonight specialize in last-minute deals, making it easy to score upscale rooms at discounted rates.

Pair a last-minute booking with a Fluz gift card or Rakuten cash-back offer, and you’re stacking significant savings on top of your deal.

Travel Light and Avoid Extra Fees

Weekend trips are perfect for traveling with just a carry-on or small overnight bag. Avoiding checked luggage helps you dodge airline fees and speeds up your journey. Plus, many smaller hotels and short-term rentals have limited storage space, so packing light keeps things simple and stress-free.