10 Affordable Summer Travel Swaps That Can Save You Up to 55%
With airfare prices up nearly 15% year over year, the cost of summer travel is rising — but travelers are finding ways around it. According to Expedia, more Americans are swapping popular vacation hotspots for “destination dupes,” or similar locations that offer comparable experiences for significantly less.
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"With airfare under pressure, travelers who stay flexible, stay closer to home and look beyond the obvious destinations can still unlock meaningful savings without compromising the experience," Melanie Fish, group travel expert at Expedia, said in a news release.
Here are 10 summer travel dupes that can help you save up to 55% on your next trip.
Instead of New York, Try Philadelphia
Average nightly hotel rate: $300
Savings compared to New York: 30%
Why it works: World‑class museums, historic neighborhoods and top-tier dining, without the NYC price tag.
Instead of Los Angeles, Try Palm Springs, California
Average nightly hotel rate: $211
Savings compared to Los Angeles: 35%
Why it works: Desert landscapes, poolside resorts and a thriving arts scene are just a short drive from L.A.
Instead of Miami, Try Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Average nightly hotel rate: $240
Savings compared to Miami: 20%
Why it works: Beautiful beaches, waterfront dining and a coastal vibe provide a more laid-back version of a Miami trip.
Instead of Seattle, Try Portland, Oregon
Average nightly hotel rate: $160
Savings compared to Seattle: 55%
Why it works: Get the same Pacific Northwest charm and easy access to nature for a big discount compared to Seattle.
Instead of Honolulu, Try Puerto Rico
Average nightly hotel rate: $195
Savings compared to Honolulu: 40%
Why it works: Enjoy tropical beaches and a rich culture without leaving the U.S.
Instead of Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, Try Curacao
Average nightly hotel rate: $345
Savings compared to Punta Cana: 10%
Why it works: Caribbean beaches, colorful architecture and a thriving culture make Curacao worth a visit.
Instead of Cancun, Mexico, Try Belize
Average nightly hotel rate: $269
Savings compared to Cancun: 36%
Why it works: Enjoy snorkeling, diving and picturesque beaches for a fraction of what you'd pay in Cancun.
Instead of London, Try Dublin
Average nightly hotel rate: $330
Savings compared to London: 10%
Why it works: Much like London, Dublin is easily walkable, has plenty of history and a robust pub culture.
Instead of Rome, Try Naples, Italy
Average nightly hotel rate: $225
Savings compared to Rome: 30%
Why it works: Savor Italian cuisine, walk historic streets and get easy access to the Amalfi Coast for less than what you'd pay to stay in Rome.
Instead of Paris, Try Brussels
Average nightly hotel rate: $229
Savings compared to Paris: 40%
Why it works: Roam around historic squares, take in the beautiful architecture, and enjoy the local beer and food specialities.
Summer spending adds up fast. Enter MoneyLion's Summer Break Giveaway for a chance to win $500 — and give your budget a break. (No pur. nec. Ends 7/4/26. See official rules at mlion.info/summerbreakofficialrules)
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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