How much should I budget for an anniversary trip?

A domestic weekend can be done for under $1,000 for two. Short international trips typically range $1,200–$2,000 depending on flights and destination; use shoulder-season travel and rewards to lower costs.

Are all-inclusive resorts a good budget choice?

All-inclusives can be convenient and sometimes cost-effective, but compare total package cost to self-planned trips — you may get better local experiences by self-catering and splurging selectively.

Can I plan a special 1 year anniversary trip on a tight budget?

Yes. Short local getaways, staycations, or curated day trips deliver memorable experiences without big spending.

10 year anniversary trips on a budget: 7 Unforgettable

10 year anniversary trips on a budget — 7 unforgettable ideas

Whether you’re celebrating year one, ten, twenty or twenty-five, an anniversary trip doesn’t need to break the bank. With smart timing, simple swaps, and intentional planning you can turn a modest budget into a memorable, romantic escape. Below you’ll find seven tested ideas plus planning tips that work for 1 year anniversary trips on a budget, 10 year anniversary trips on a budget, 20th anniversary trips on a budget, and 25th anniversary trips on a budget.

Quick list — 7 budget-friendly anniversary trip ideas

Cozy cabin or mountain getaway — nature, hikes, and private time.
Charming coastal town — strolls, seafood, and low-cost B&Bs.
Road-trip discovery — the journey becomes part of the celebration.
City mini-break off-season — museums, walking tours, free events.
Short international escape — places where your currency stretches further.
Unique stay (tiny house, treehouse, houseboat) — one-of-a-kind memory on a modest budget.
All-inclusive deal (shoulder season) — negotiate packages that include meals and simple activities.

Why you don’t need to overspend

Milestones are about meaning, not price tags. Couples who focus on shared experiences (a sunrise hike, a slow meal at a market, a long conversation under the stars) often treasure the trip more than those who chase luxury labels. Use savings from smart choices to book a special dinner or an experience you’ll both remember.

1. Pick the right time: shoulder season and midweek

Traveling in shoulder season (spring or fall in many places) often cuts prices 30–50% while keeping good weather and fewer crowds. Mid-week stays (Tue–Thu) typically bring lower rates for both flights and accommodation — perfect for a 1 or 3-night anniversary escape.

2. Accommodation that adds value

Vacation rentals with a kitchen let you cook breakfasts or a romantic picnic, saving money and creating intimate moments. Boutique inns or locally owned B&Bs often deliver charm and hospitality without high resort prices. For milestone years like a 20th or 25th anniversary, look for a single special night (splurge) and keep the rest practical.

3. Make local, free, and low-cost activities the heart of the trip

Free museum days, public gardens, scenic hikes, sunset viewpoints, and local markets deliver memories at minimal cost. Build a day around a shared interest — nature, art, food — and plan one standout splurge (a sunset boat tour, a local cooking class) to make the trip feel special.

Top destination ideas that stretch your budget

Domestic gems

Gatlinburg, TN — cabins + Great Smoky Mountains hikes. Big Bear, CA — cozy mountain weekend not far from the city. Cape May, NJ or St. Petersburg, FL — beaches, walks, and local seafood without resort prices.

International value

Portugal — Lisbon and Porto offer romantic streets and affordable dining. Mexico — choose less-touristy towns or boutique stays near the Riviera Maya for great value. Costa Rica — off-season deals and nature experiences that feel luxurious without a luxury cost.

Money-saving tactics that actually work

Use points and rewards for flights or a night at a nicer hotel.
Set flight alerts and buy when prices dip.
Pack light to avoid baggage fees.
Book direct with hotels to find unpublished rates or perks.
Choose one splurge (special dinner, tour) and keep the rest simple.

Which anniversary is this for you?

Whether it’s your first year or your twenty-fifth, the planning approach is similar: decide what matters most, free up budget through smart choices, and then design the trip around meaningful moments.

Frequently asked questions (short)

How much should I budget?

For a meaningful domestic weekend — under $1,000 for two is realistic. For a short international trip, aim for $1,200–$2,000 depending on flights and destination. Use rewards and shoulder-season timing to reduce costs.

Are all-inclusive resorts cheaper?

Sometimes. All-inclusives can be cost-effective if you value convenience and included meals/activities. Compare the total package cost to self-planned options — often self-catering + one or two splurges gives a richer local experience.

Can a 1-year anniversary be special on a small budget?

Absolutely. A short local getaway, a special staycation, or a memorable day trip can mark year one beautifully — it’s more about connection than expense.

Next steps — plan smart

Start by choosing the single thing you both want most (nature, food, quiet time, city culture). Book that early, then layer budget wins (midweek travel, vacation rental, free activities) around it. For destination ideas and planning tools, visit our Romantic Getaways hub.

Written by Ramy Saber — founder of GoTravelHunt. We help couples plan memorable trips that don’t require a fortune.