The cheapest places for women to travel alone are, generally speaking, the same as for men. In today's tough economic times it takes a little ingenuity to create a cheap travel experience. Women who do plan to travel alone should always take extra caution to ensure their safety in new environments.
Looking for a place to escape, but also to give of yourself and your time? Consider a volunteer vacation. There are many different types available that offer new experiences, the chance to meet new people and cost you little or nothing:
Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation: Free, volunteers bring their own gear, meals are included.
P.O. Box 190688
Hungry Horse, MT 59919
(406) 387-3808
bmwf.org
Colorado Trail Foundation: Weekend $25, week $50.
710 10th Street, Room 210
Golden, CO 80401
(303) 384-3729
coloradotrail.org
World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms: $20 for an individual, $30 for two.
WWOOF - USA
430 Forest Avenue
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(949) 715-9500
wwoof.org
Pacific Crest Trail Association: Free.
1331 Garden Highway
Sacramento, CA 95833
(916) 285-1846
trailprojects.com
American Hiking Society: $275/year, includes 1 volunteer vacation, subscription to backpacker and hiker magazine and discounts on gear.
1422 Fenwick Lane
Silver Spring, MD 20910
phone: 1-800-972-8608
americanhiking.org
Sometimes the best escapes are within a days drive away or right around the corner. Plan a one day road trip, returning home for the evening or escape to a day spa. Put everything on hold and stay offline, make it a real vacation day.
If you're able to travel last minute then sites like Site59.com offer bundled packages, including hotel, car and flights that are hard to beat. Often times your flexibility is the key to snagging the best travel deal.
Hostels are an affordable way to travel alone. Many come with shared kitchens, laundry, and other niceties.
Camping is a cheap way to escape and not pay for an expensive hotel room. There are many places available in the national parks. Check out the U.S. Forest Service website ReserveUSA.com for a listing of available campsites.
In the past few years, the U.S. Dollar has fallen considerably in relation to many foreign currencies. If you're looking for the cheapest vacation possible overseas, then choose a country with a weak currency compared to the dollar. Here are a few to research: Costa Rica, Central America, Argentina, and Cambodia.
