How to Take a Budget-Friendly, ‘BeaUTAHful’ Vacation

Johnny Cash once covered an old song called “I’ve Been Everywhere” about a traveler who asked him if he’d ever seen such a road. He replied with all of the countries, states and cities he’d visited — about 90 total by my count. I don’t recall everywhere he went, but I do remember, “Pasadena, Catalina, see what I mean-a!”

This time of year feels made for going everywhere. But with current inflation, giving into that wanderlust can be daunting.

Current Travel Costs for Families in 2026

According to 2026 travel data from Budget Your Trip, the average cost for a one-week vacation in the U.S. has reached about $2,275 per person. For a family of four, that is a $9,100 investment once you account for flights, accommodations and daily expenses. That's a real burden for many families today when the cost of living is so high.

The Utah "Staycation" Remix

The good news for us Utahns is that with all the spectacular things to see right here, we could easily create our own version of the song:

We have Canyonlands, Arches, the Great Salt Lake, Bryce Canyon,
Alpine Loop, Capitol Reef, Goblin Valley, the cliffs at Zion,
Thanksgiving Point, Spiral Jetty, Newspaper Rock, Logan,
Park City, Bears Ears, Dinosaurs, Snow Canyon,
Salt Flats, Timpanogos Cave, Snowbird, the Cottonwood Canyons, 25th Street in Ogden
Hale Centre Theatre, Antelope Island, Hogle Zoo, Cedar Breaks and all the lakes…

It doesn’t flow as beautifully as the original, but as Cash sang, “You see what I mean-a!” You can pick a direction, drive and find something incredible within a few hours. This makes Utah the perfect place for a fun getaway.

How to Plan a Budget-Friendly Utah Staycation

A staycation does not have to feel like settling. With a little planning, it can feel thoughtful, fun and a lot easier on your budget.

1. Examine Your Finances

Start with what your budget is already telling you.

• Review your accounts: Look at checking and savings balances, debts, spending activity and trends.
• Use your digital tools: Online banking can help you examine your finances and make responsible plans. Within Online Banking, financial tools include budgeting and spending features powered by My Money Hub.
• Match the trip to the budget: If money is tight, free or low-cost options like hiking, exploring or visiting a local museum can still make for a great getaway.
• Adjust based on the season: If summer months tend to be more expensive, maybe a simple campsite an hour away is the right adventure this year.

2. Research and Save

A little planning can stretch your money further than you think.

• Plan your timing: Popular hikes and attractions are often less crowded on weekdays than on weekends.
• Bring food from home: Snacks or a picnic lunch can help you avoid spending more than planned.
• Look for discounts: Movie theaters often offer weekday morning or matinee pricing.
• Compare lodging options: Midweek hotel rates, RV rentals or vacation homes with kitchens can sometimes save money.

3. Take Advantage of Being a Local

Living in Utah already gives you a head start.

• Explore state parks: Utah has more than 40 state parks with everything from boating and hiking to tent, trailer and cabin camping.
• Look into museums and art centers: Some are free, and others offer discounts on certain days or times.
• Check your city’s website: Summer concerts, movies and community events can make easy staycation activities.
• Watch for seasonal events: Fairs, rodeos and local happenings can add something special without requiring a big travel budget.

Favorite Utah Adventures

I am an outdoor enthusiast and love sharing a few of my favorite spots:

• National and State Parks: I particularly love the Windows section of Arches and the Kolob Canyons area of Zion.
• Grandstaff Canyon Trail: Located east of Moab, this hike offers amazing views and Morning Glory Arch.
• Kanarraville Falls: A beautiful southern Utah slot canyon. Remember that permits are required!
• Donut Falls: A fairly easy trail for all ages up Big Cottonwood Canyon. Go early to beat the crowds.
• Adam’s Canyon: A shaded trail near Layton that follows a creek to a 40-foot waterfall.

A Final Thought

Traveling in Utah doesn’t have to be expensive. Set your budget, try these money-saving tips and keep track of all the places you go. You might come up with even more than Johnny Cash.

If you need a dedicated account to help reach your travel goals, Bank of Utah offers the “I Save” account, which earns more as you save more.