There is nothing quite like a holiday to refresh the body and mind. A little escapism from the daily routine and space and time to get away from it all can do you the world of good. Whether you travel alone, with family or extended family and close friends, it’s all about quality time and the freedom to spend it how you wish.

Budgeting for a holiday is a great way to make sure you have the funds you need to have the holiday you want. Keeping to that travel budget makes sure you don’t get into debt while you travel. Adding budget-friendly and cost-effective destinations and activities to your itinerary can help with this.

According to the American Society of Travel Agents, the 5 most budget-friendly American travel destinations are:

  • Las Vegas, Nevada
  • Orlando, Florida
  • Branson, Missouri
  • New Orleans, Louisiana
  • Los Angeles, California.

Here is what makes each location a great budget-friendly option:

1. Las Vegas, Nevada

In Las Vegas, you can get away, explore tourist attractions and stay in one of the many awesome hotel resorts, all for very decent prices.

Due to the vast number of hotel rooms, nearly 150,000, says the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, many package deals to Vegas are available. A common travel package to Las Vegas includes flights, hotel, food credits, and a discount on show tickets.

Vegas casinos will clamor for your business. However, if you want your vacation to Las Vegas to be truly budget-friendly, avoiding the casinos may be wise. Alternatively, you can budget a certain amount of money to enjoy the experience of the casinos, and when you hit that limit, stop gambling.

With the many shows, amusement parks and great places to eat, there are plenty of non-gambling activities to do in Las Vegas as well.

2. Orlando, Florida

Because of Disney World, Epcot, Universal Studios, Sea World, and more, there’s no end to the package deals you’ll find for Orlando, Florida. Families converge in groups each year to this sunny Florida holiday mecca.

Depending on the time of year you go, you could be lucky enough to snag some incredible ‘freebie’ days at Disney and Universal Studios. Since July and August are in the middle of hurricane season, not to mention the hottest months of the year in Florida, you may prefer to avoid Orlando during those months. However, if you’re seeking a great travel deal to Orlando, you’ll find it in July and August.

3. Branson, Missouri

Second to Nashville, Tennessee, as the country music capital of the world, Branson offers a stay at a fine hotel, delicious meals, and entertaining shows at some astonishingly low prices.

Here’s an example for a family of 4: two nights hotel, 4 free admissions to a water park, 4 free show tickets to a Country Music Hall, 2 free large pizzas, and a $10 card to a local play spot, all for $298.60 (approximately £270) for those holidaying in June, July or August.

Another real advantage to a Branson vacation is that the location is easily accessible from several U.S. states. You can take a car trip to get there in a day or so. A destination you might not have considered, Branson offers numerous budget-friendly opportunities.

4. New Orleans, Louisiana

What’s not to like about a visit to New Orleans? Steeped in history and some of the most charming old Southern homes you’ll ever lay eyes on, this city of jazz and art is an experience in and of itself. If you haven’t been to New Orleans and you like to save money, you’ll definitely want to place this destination on your travel wish list.

Beignets and chicory coffee can be had for a song at Café du Monde and a walk around Jackson Square when the artists are displaying their wares is free.

For another real New Orleans experience, take a stroll down Bourbon Street after dark and just listen to the music wafting out to the streets, no charge. Of course, you’ll be drawn into one of the no-cover-charge lounges to enjoy the entertainment.

5. Los Angeles, California

This destination surprises as one of the top five U.S. budget-friendly travel locations. With museums, Venice Beach, Chinatown, and all things Hollywood, consider a budget-friendly trip to LA. Allow time to enjoy the free sightseeing and inexpensive but good street food.

Exploring Universal City Walk or the Hollywood Walk of Fame won’t cost a dime, except for food and drink. Include in your budget what you’d like to spend on shopping and entertainment at these locations so you don’t get carried away and overspend.

Whatever your pleasure, you can afford to travel to one of these budget-friendly vacation destinations. With careful pre-planning coupled with a great package deal, you’re sure to live it up during your cost-saving holiday to one of these top 5 budget-friendly destinations.