17 ways to see Texas on a budget

05.09.2023 - 21:57 / lonelyplanet.com / Spring Break / Dallas Cowboys

As the second largest state in America, Texas is one beast of a trip. With points of interest dotted all the way through the state, this is not a place you can check off on a flying visit; instead, take your time.

Direct flights buzz into Dallas, Fort Worth and Houston, and from there, you’ll probably want to visit the state capital, Austin, and uncover the historic wonders of San Antonio. Outdoors enthusiasts target the southern border from Big Bend National Park all the way down to the Gulf, while wine-lovers focus on the Hill Country and party people hit the beaches of Galveston. Then there are all those little off-the-beaten-path towns full of ranches and wild west charm, where you can sport your cowboy hat.

To explore the state's myriad attractions, you’re 100% going to need a car. Public transport is neither reliable nor affordable in Texas, and it certainly doesn’t cover the length and breadth of the state. Factor in gas, accommodation, entry tickets, and dining on top of daily vehicle rental costs, and the price of a trip could prove overwhelming for those on tight budgets.

But fear not! If you’re smart, exploring the state of Texas is perfectly possible on a budget. Check out our money-saving tips and tricks and see for yourself.

The two busiest airports in Texas – Dalls/Fort Worth (DFW) and Houston (IAH) offer the best range of direct flights, and competition keeps fares lower. You’ll also have more car rental companies to choose from when comparing prices. Of course, you’ll want to book well in advance for flight and rental deals; aim for the shoulder seasons to balance moderate prices with good weather for activities.

Aside from the usual peak holiday times such as Christmas, July 4th and Spring Break, prices in Texas soar during the state's big festivals. Events to avoid (or budget for) include SXSW (March) in Austin, Fiesta (April) in San Antonio, and the Texas State Fair (late September to October) in Dallas. 

Likewise, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a good deal on a hotel room in any sporting hub on game day, especially if your accommodation is close to a stadium. Home games for the Texas Rangers (Dallas-Fort-Worth), Dallas Cowboys, and Houston Astros will ramp up traffic citywide. Unless you have tickets, hit these cities outside of game days.

If you're not too fussed about seeing the big teams, but simply want to get a dose of the American football experience, you’ll save money by snagging tickets to college football games instead of NFL games. In fact, the atmosphere is pretty comparable – Texans are huge sports fans, and they follow college football just as avidly as the national league.

You can enjoy Texas' famous Tex-Mex cuisine on the cheap if you opt for the breakfast