Sometimes you just need to escape from the city, breathe some fresh air, and recharge. Good news? You do not need to use luck to enjoy the migration from Los Angeles. With a small plan, you can find a fantastic destination, book the journey under $200, and feel rested and inspired. Whether you are looking for beaches, mountains, or small cities, this guide will help you plan your next reasonable adventure - without breaking the bank.
Why LA is perfect for the weekend
Los Angeles is surrounded by incredible destinations, hour'sours drive or a fast, cheap flight. From the Pacific coast to the desert, the options are endless. In addition, with so many travel agreements, group discounts, and budget-friendly migration, you can use the weekend maximally without maxing out your credit card. The city's location means you can wake up in LA and travel hiking in the mountains, roam on a beach, or search for an attractive small town for lunch. And with so many affordable alternatives, you can overcome more often - without crime.
Top weekend gate below $200
There are some of the best places here, where you can travel for less than $200 from LA, including travel and housing. Each destination provides its own unique mood, so you can find the perfect one for your mood and budget:
- Santa Barbara: Santa Barbara offers beautiful beaches, wine, and an attractive city on the coast. Book a hostel or budget hotel for $60- $90 per night, and enjoy free activities such as hiking or going on a Ghat. Don't miss the Funk Zone for art galleries and cheap food.
- Joshua Tree National Park: Perfect for nature lovers and stargazers. The campsite starts at $20 one night, and the park entry is $30 per car. Wrap your own food and share gasoline with friends for a super cheap adventure work. There are also vintage shops and local coffee places in the bazaar town of Joshua Tree.
- Palm Springs: Known for its pool, mid-century, and mountain scenes. Look for last-minute hotel deals or an Airbnb room for $70- $100 per night. Enjoy hiking in free art walking, the Window Trade Center, and Indian Valley. Many hotels offer day care, if you want to rest in style without staying, they have your pool.
- San Diego: Hop on the emit rack or drive on the coast. Stay $50- $80 per night at a hostel or budget hotel. Enjoy the beach, Balboa Park, and cheap food in the Gaslamp Quarter. Don't forget to check the farmers' markets and free outdoor concerts in the summer.
- Solvang: This village in Danish style in Santa Yanez Valley is a fun, bizarre escape. Examples of cakes, rented bicycles, and staying in a comfortable inn under $100 in one night. The city is known for its wind turbines, baker's, and wine tasting rooms that provide free or affordable samples.
- Big Beer Lake: Just two hours away, La is Big Beer, an annual destination for hiking, boating, and winter games. Cabin and Motal can be found for $60- $100 per night, especially if you order early or travel pick. Bring your own food and enjoy a picnic on the lake.
- Ojai: A peaceful Dalby is known for its art galleries, farms, and beautiful hiking trails. Stay on a budget or try to catch Lake Casitas. The city of Ozai is full of walkable and cheap cafés and shops.
How to order cheap (and smart)
- Travel with friends: Split petrol, lodging, and food costs to make your journey more financially feasible. Group trips also mean more fun and shared memories.
- Book backs or last minute: Early birds get the best deals, but the final mint apps that Hotel Tonight can make you a bargain. Flexibility is important; sometimes waiting for your travel week can save you big.
- Use travel apps: Kayak, Expedia, and Airbnb often have special weekend prices and Flash sales. Set the price notice for your favorite destinations.
- Think of public transport: Emitrack, FlixBus, and Metrolink provide cheap rides to many destinations. You can relax, leave the traffic, and save parking.
- Pack snacks and food: Save food by shopping or shopping for your own in local markets. A picnic on the beach or the mountain is both cheap and memorable.
- See free activities: Many destinations offer free hiking trails, public beaches, art walks, and festivals. Check the local event calendar before leaving.
Real World Gate
Suppose you and a friend will spend a weekend in Joshua Tree. You order a campsite for $40 (two nights), divide $60 into gasoline and bring groceries for $30. Per inhabit, ant Total cost? Only $65. Add a few rupees for park entrance and coffee in the city, and you still have good for stories about stargazing, and a campfire under $100. To upgrade, you can find an original maximum room for $80- $100 per night and still keep a total of $200 per person.
If I planned a migration, I always examine free programs or festivals in the area - sometimes you stumble upon a local art fair, farmer's market, or outdoor concert that makes your journey even more memorable. At the end of the week, I found a free jazz festival in Santa Barbara, which made a simple beach trip an unforgettable experience.
Tips for even more savings
- Travel of choices: Avoid holiday weekends and book at low prices and low shoulder season. Spring and decline are especially good for weather and appointments.
- See package agreements: Some hotels and hostels provide bundle prices with activities or food. Always ask about the special when ordering.
- Use loyalty points: If you have a credit card or hotel points, it is a good time to use them for free or discounted stays. Even a small number of marks can cover one night at a budget hotel.
- Try house pitting or counseling: For the really brave, these options can make your journey almost free. Sites like LiTrustedhousesittersCouchSurfing combine passengers with hosts throughout California.
- Bring your own equipment: whether you're camping or traveling hiking, save your own tent, sleeping bag, and equipment, leaving yourself comfortable.
- Share Tour: Use the Carpool app or ride-share with friends to divide gas and parking costs.
Do to migrate to the pack for a weekend
- Layer for changing weather (especially in mountains or deserts)
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Preprofessional water bottle and snacks
- A camera or a smartphone for photos
- Informal shoes for walking or hiking
- Swimsuit and towel for beach or pool journeys
- Chargers and a portable battery pack
- Map or GPS app (cell service may be detected in remote areas)
Question to ask
- How far can I go from LA under $200?
With a careful plan, you can reach the destinations up to 3–4 hours by car or train, including Santa Barbara, Palm Springs, and San Diego. Even big bears and ozai are remarkable on a budget. - Is it safe to travel alone?
Yes! Just choose a good deal, tell someone your plans, and rely on your trend. Many hostels and groups are suitable for tourists. - What should I pack?
Bring layers, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, snacks, and a camera. If you're camping, don't forget the tent and sleeping bag. Always check the weather before leaving. - Can I find agreements for families?
Absolutely! Many destinations have family-friendly hotels, free children's activities, and group discounts. To save even more, look for a holiday or family suite. - Do I need a car?
Not always. Many places are available by train or bus, and you can use ride-sharing or a bicycle after arrival. Public transport is a great way to save money and avoid parking problems. - Are there pet-friendly options?
Yes! Many hotels, motels, and campsites welcome pets. Always check the pet policy before ordering and bring supplies to your beloved friend.
Helpful Resources
Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out a Texas road trip on a budget for more affordable adventures. Need a flight instead? Here’s how to find cheap flights to Florida from NYC or last-minute flight deals from Texas to NYC. For foodies, don’t miss the best food & travel deals in top U.S. cities or Atlanta food deals under $10.