The 6 Most Affordable Destinations for US Travelers in May 2025
Feb 10,2025 | Milo
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In August 2025, a round-trip flight from Boston to Barcelona might set you back around $750. But in May? You could snag tickets for as low as $350—less than half the price.
Spring is an ideal time to score budget-friendly getaways, as most travelers hold off on vacations until the summer rush. Even with reduced costs, you won’t have to sacrifice breathtaking scenery, delicious cuisine, or affordable lodging.
Curious about the best wallet-friendly destinations? Here are six of the most affordable places to visit in May 2025.
1. Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Playa del Carmen ranks among the most budget-friendly destinations to explore in May. Since it falls within the shoulder season, the beaches are far less crowded, giving you more space to relax by the shore. Daytime temperatures range comfortably between 70°F and 90°F, dipping slightly in the evenings for a refreshing cool-down. Plus, getting there is a breeze—nonstop flights from Miami take just 1 hour and 45 minutes.
While Mexico boasts plenty of affordable vacation spots, Playa del Carmen stands out with its perfect mix of serene beachfront lounges, bustling nightlife along La Quinta Avenida, and historic Mayan ruins. It caters to all types of travelers, whether you’re looking to unwind, explore, or immerse yourself in culture. With a wide selection of budget-friendly accommodations, restaurants, and bars—like Newport House Playa Boutique Hotel, where rooms start at just $47 per night—this seaside paradise delivers an unforgettable getaway without breaking the bank.
How Affordable is a Trip to Playa del Carmen?
- Estimated Daily Budget: $70 – $150 (covers food, transportation, and accommodation)
- Lowest Flight Prices: $225 – $315 (departing from Miami)
- ByteSIM’s Mexico eSIM: Enjoy seamless connectivity throughout your trip, keeping in touch with loved ones and sharing your travel moments. The longer you stay, the more you save on your eSIM!
2. Antigua, Guatemala
Antigua offers a mix of rich history, mouthwatering cuisine, and vibrant cultural experiences, making it a perfect destination for a laid-back getaway. What’s even better? May is one of the most affordable times to visit. As the island enters its low season (May to November), tourist crowds thin out, and accommodation prices drop—Good Hotel Antigua, for example, starts at just $97 per night.
For U.S. travelers, reaching Antigua is fairly convenient. A direct flight from New York takes around 4 hours and 50 minutes, while the longest journey from the continental U.S. is from Seattle, clocking in at 7 hours and 46 minutes. While May brings occasional rain showers, temperatures remain comfortable, typically hovering between 75–80°F.
One of the perks of traveling to Antigua in May is the chance to explore beyond the main island at discounted rates due to the offseason. A peaceful retreat awaits on Barbuda Island, just a 90-minute ferry ride away. For animal lovers, the Donkey Sanctuary—home to over 150 rescued donkeys—offers free admission. If your ideal vacation involves unwinding by the water, Antigua boasts stunning, no-cost beaches, including Galley Bay Beach, Valley Church Beach, Half Moon Bay, and Dickenson Bay, often regarded as the island’s finest.
How affordable is your trip to Antigua?
- Daily budget: $70 – $95, covering food, transportation, and accommodations.
- Flight cost: $165 – $235 for departures from JFK.
- ByteSIM Guatemala eSIM: Stay connected effortlessly for as low as $1.8 per day during a 5-day visit. Planning a longer stay? The per-day rate drops as you add more days!
3. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is famous for its rich history, highlighted by Antoni Gaudí’s architectural wonders, the colorful pathways of Park Güell, and the bustling atmosphere of Ciutat Vella. While the city tends to be pricey and crowded during peak travel months, May offers a more affordable window for visitors. That said, major events like the Primavera Sound Music Festival can drive up prices, so securing accommodations early is a smart strategy. Staying in the city center typically costs between $50 and $80 per night. The weather is pleasantly mild, as the intense summer heat has yet to arrive, making it ideal for exploring on foot. A direct flight from Boston to Barcelona takes approximately 7 hours and 10 minutes, and planning ahead can help you find the best flight deals.
For a lively yet budget-friendly experience, take a stroll down Las Ramblas, a pedestrian-friendly boulevard lined with street performers, local artists, and souvenir vendors. If you’re craving a beach day, Barceloneta Beach is a popular choice, but for a more tranquil seaside escape, head 20 minutes up the coast to Playa de Bogatell, where you’ll find fewer crowds and a more relaxed vibe.
How Affordable Is a Trip to Barcelona?
- Daily budget: Expect to spend between $100 and $150 per day, covering meals, local transport, and accommodation.
- Lowest airfare: Round-trip flights from Boston (BOS) start at $350 – $400, depending on booking time and airline deals.
- Stay connected effortlessly: With ByteSIM’s Barcelona eSIM, you can get a 5-day unlimited data plan for just $17.90—that’s only $3.58 per day. The more days you add, the lower the daily cost! Share your Barcelona adventures in real-time, stay in touch with loved ones, and navigate the city with ease!
4. Vancouver, Canada
Many American tourists often overlook Canada as an exciting yet budget-friendly destination from April to May, despite its close proximity. What makes May an ideal month for an affordable getaway? Vancouver bursts into life with cherry blossoms in full bloom, lively outdoor festivals, and comfortable temperatures ranging from 54-64°F. Since it’s still off-peak season, visitors can take part in events like Vancouver Craft Beer Week or the International Children’s Festival without dealing with overwhelming crowds. Plus, getting there is a breeze—it’s just a short one-hour flight from Seattle.
Vancouver offers a wealth of free attractions, including Stanley Park, Granville Island, Queen Elizabeth Park, and Kitsilano Beach. Since May falls within the shoulder season, travelers can take advantage of budget-friendly hotel rates, typically between $65 and $90 per night. However, booking in advance is highly recommended to secure the best deals.
How Affordable Is Your Vancouver Getaway?
- Daily expenses: Expect to spend between $90 and $110 per day, covering meals, local transport, and accommodations.
- Lowest airfare: Flights from Seattle to Vancouver can be as low as $250–$270.
- Round-trip train fare: Traveling by train? A round-trip ticket from Seattle costs between $65 and $79.
- ByteSIM Canada eSIM for May: Staying in Canada for a week? Stay connected for just $3.90 per day, allowing you to effortlessly update friends and share your travel experiences. The longer your plan, the lower the daily cost!
---> You may be interested in how to get an eSIM with a Canadian number.
5. Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is a top destination for budget-conscious travelers looking to visit in May. By this time, the winter tourists have cleared out, making it an ideal period for a quieter and more relaxed getaway. The island still enjoys warm, sunny weather, averaging around 86°F with refreshing breezes. Plus, getting there is incredibly convenient—San Juan Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport is just a short 2-hour and 47-minute flight from Orlando.
For those seeking an affordable trip, Puerto Rico boasts plenty of free attractions, with fewer crowds in May. Stroll through the charming streets of Old San Juan, where you’ll find must-see spots like Calle Del Cristo, a lively hub for shopping and entertainment. At night, this area transforms into a hotspot for vibrant nightlife and Latin music. If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, head to Culebra, a hidden gem within the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in nature and encounter local wildlife, including pelicans and green sea turtles.
How budget-friendly is a trip to Puerto Rico?
- Estimated daily expenses: $100 – $110 (covering meals, local transport, and accommodation)
- Lowest airfare: $250 – $270 (departing from MCO Airport)
- Unlimited data with ByteSIM Puerto Rico eSIM in May: Stay connected for just $3.78/day on a 5-day trip! Share your experiences and keep in touch with loved ones—plus, the longer you stay, the lower the daily cost!
6. Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena stands out as one of the most budget-friendly Caribbean destinations, especially in May, when the high season winds down. While the tropical heat remains, with temperatures ranging from 79-90°F, the tourist crowds have thinned out. This translates to better deals on accommodations, activities, and airfare. If you're flying from the U.S., Cartagena is just three hours from Miami and about five hours from New York City!
Exploring Cartagena doesn’t have to cost a fortune, as the city boasts numerous free attractions. Walk along the historic Old City Walls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or visit the Museo del Oro Zenú, which showcases Colombia’s rich pre-colonial heritage. Need a break from the heat? Playa Blanca, located just south of downtown, offers a serene beach escape—far less crowded in May than during peak travel months. With hotel rates ranging from $26 to $100 per night, Cartagena is a top contender for an affordable May getaway.
How Affordable Is Your Cartagena Getaway?
- Daily Budget: $49 – $60 (covers meals, transportation, and accommodation)
- Lowest Flight Cost: $222 – $278 (departing from MIA)
- Stay Connected with ByteSIM's Colombia eSIM: Get unlimited data for just $7.84 per day on a seven-day trip to Cartagena. Planning to visit Bogotá or Medellín? No problem! Your ByteSIM eSIM works across all of Colombia, ensuring seamless connectivity wherever your travels take you.
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