Washington DC

Washington DC is a challenging but rewarding destination for the budget-conscious traveler. The city's greatest gift to backpackers is the 'free' culture—almost all Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo charge zero admission, allowing you to see world-class artifacts without spending a dime. However, the cost of existence here is high. Hostels are few and often priced similarly to budget hotels in other regions, with a bed in a shared dorm rarely dipping below $45. To survive on a budget, you must master the art of the 'happy hour' and street food trucks near the National Mall. The vibe is sophisticated and fast-paced, but there is a growing community of young travelers who congregate in the Adams Morgan and H Street corridors. For free activities, walking the monuments at night is an essential, magical experience that costs nothing. To save money, use the Metro instead of rideshares and shop at grocery stores like Aldi or Trader Joe's rather than dining out in the expensive downtown core. A typical daily budget of $75 covers a hostel bed, two modest meals, and a few Metro rides, provided you stick to the free museums.