Cedar Point, the renowned “Roller Coaster Capital of the World®” on the shores of Lake Erie, remains a top destination. However, finding the best deals on tickets has changed significantly following the merger between Cedar Fair and Six Flags.

This guide provides updated strategies for securing discount Cedar Point tickets in 2025.

Key Takeaways for Saving on Cedar Point Tickets Now Buy Online: Always purchase tickets directly from Cedar Point’s website in advance for savings over gate prices.

Consider a Season Pass: If visiting multiple times, calculate if a Summer or Gold Pass is cheaper, especially factoring in free parking.

Check Official Channels: Look for Military/First Responder discounts , Group rates (15+) , Pre-K Passes , and Vacation Packages directly through Cedar Point.

AAA/CAA Members: Check your regional club for potential ticket deals and look for lodging discounts.

Monitor Special Offers: Keep an eye on Cedar Point’s official “Special Offers” page for limited-time deals.

Why You Can Trust Our Guide Our team constantly researches ticket prices and discount methods at theme parks across the United States. We track official park pricing, season pass value, and authorized seller options daily—we operate a ticket site, so we need to understand the landscape! If we can offer you cheaper Cedar Point tickets again, we will let you know! Our goal is always to provide you with the most current and accurate information so you can save money on your visit, regardless of where you ultimately decide to buy your tickets.

The Game Changer: Understanding the Cedar Fair & Six Flags Merger’s Impact

The landscape of amusement park operations shifted significantly with the merger of Cedar Fair and Six Flags, creating a combined entity operating under the Six Flags Entertainment Corporation name. While Cedar Point retains its iconic name and location, the corporate integration brings changes.

A key objective of this merger is achieving significant cost savings and operational efficiencies. I’ve heard and read on other sites that some kinks still need to be worked out because the two brands need to merge their ticketing systems.

However, the most immediate consequence is the obsolescence of tickets sold by authorized ticket sellers for less. This makes the official Cedar Point website the primary source for tickets and authentic discounts. But, of course, there are still other ways to save that I’ll get into below.

Saying Goodbye to Old Discount Methods—Temporarily, We Hope

Before discussing current savings strategies, we should note that some of our previously recommended discount avenues will no longer be selling Cedar Point tickets in 2025.

Authorized Third-Party Sellers: These platforms were once a go-to source for discounted tickets. Some of you may remember that I used to be able to offer you a secret discount through our ticket site. Currently, we only have limited offer from Groupon, that we can take advantage of.

These platforms were once a go-to source for discounted tickets. Some of you may remember that I used to be able to offer you a secret discount through our ticket site. Currently, we only have limited offer from Groupon, that we can take advantage of. Costco: Costco memberships sometimes offered access to theme park tickets, but Cedar Point’s availability was inconsistent. Members might still check Costco Travel for potential vacation packages, but direct ticket deals are not likely.

Costco memberships sometimes offered access to theme park tickets, but Cedar Point’s availability was inconsistent. Members might still check Costco Travel for potential vacation packages, but direct ticket deals are not likely. Grocery Store Discounts (Meijer, Kroger, Giant Eagle, Discount Drug Mart ): When we started tracking deals on Cedar Point tickets, readers reported securing discounts at the customer service desks of these regional grocery stores. If you’ve been able to do this, please comment and let us know where and when!

comment and let us know where and when! General Student Discounts: Ohio State University students had a deal on tickets last season, and the University of Michigan had a special day there. There’s nothing yet on tap for 2025. Cedar Point also does not offer a general student discount at the gate or through its main online portal. However, students at schools in the region should check to see if their unions are offering discounts.

Top Ways to Save on Cedar Point Tickets in 2025 (Best Deals + Tips)

While third-party ticket sellers are more limited than in the past, there are still excellent ways to save money on Cedar Point admission in 2025. The best current deals are available either directly through Cedar Point or via select trusted partners.

Below is a breakdown of the most effective strategies to keep your trip affordable.

1. Groupon Discount Deals

For a limited time, Groupon is offering two exclusive deals (which is up to 50% off) valid until July 31, 2025 :

Single Day Admission Plus Souvenir Bottle with Unlimited Drinks

Price starts from $69.99. Includes park admission and tax,

Price starts from $69.99. Includes park admission and tax, 2-Day Admission Ticket

Price starts from $96.99. Valid for admission for any two public operating days.

Both deals include tax and have no additional checkout fees, which sets them apart from the official site. Kids ages 2 and under are free.

2. Buy Directly on Cedar Point Website

The easiest way to save on Cedar Point admission is to purchase tickets directly from the Cedar Point website before visiting. The park advertises savings of up to $40 compared to the front gate price when buying online.

Online daily tickets for the 2025 season start from $50 (plus taxes and fees), but once you add them to your cart, you’ll see taxes and a transaction fee, too.

Cedar Point Ticket Options & Starting Prices (2025)

Ticket Type Starting Online Price (Approx.) Best For… Single Day Ticket $50+ Single-day visits, date-specific trips Summer Pass $120 Multiple visits through Labor Day (incl. Shores/excl. HalloWeekends), includes parking Gold Pass $160 Multiple visits including HalloWeekends, includes parking Prestige Pass $375 Frequent visitors seeking premium perks Group Ticket (15-99) $45+ Groups of 15 or more people Military/First Responder Tickets $45+ Eligible personnel and their families

(Note: Prices are subject to change and do not include taxes/fees. Verify current pricing on the official website.)

3. Consider a Season Pass (Calculate Your Break-Even)

For those planning multiple visits, a Season Pass often presents better value than purchasing individual daily tickets. Carefully consider the break-even point based on your planned visits.

2025 Summer Pass: Priced at $120 (or available via a payment plan), this pass grants unlimited visits to Cedar Point and Cedar Point Shores Waterpark through Labor Day (September 1, 2025). It also includes free general parking .

Priced at (or available via a payment plan), this pass grants unlimited visits to Cedar Point and Cedar Point Shores Waterpark through Labor Day (September 1, 2025). It also includes . Break-Even Calculation: Comparing the $120 Summer Pass price to the starting online daily ticket price of $50, the pass typically pays for itself by the third visit ($50 x 3 = $150).

Comparing the $120 Summer Pass price to the starting online daily ticket price of $50, the pass typically pays for itself by the ($50 x 3 = $150). Parking Value: The inclusion of free parking (which can cost $25-$30+ daily) significantly enhances the pass’s value, potentially making it worthwhile even for just two visits.

The inclusion of free parking (which can cost $25-$30+ daily) significantly enhances the pass’s value, potentially making it worthwhile even for just two visits. Limitations: The Summer Pass does not include visits during the popular HalloWeekends event.

The Summer Pass visits during the popular event. 2025 Gold Pass: If you plan to visit during HalloWeekends in the fall, the Gold Pass is a better option. Priced at $160 (or via payment plan), it includes HalloWeekends access and free general parking.

If you plan to visit during HalloWeekends in the fall, the Gold Pass is a better option. Priced at $160 (or via payment plan), it includes and free general parking. Other Options: The park also offers a premium Prestige Pass ($375) with additional perks, and an All Park Passport add-on (from $80) for Gold or Prestige passes, granting access to all Six Flags parks nationwide.

4. Official Military & First Responder Discounts

Cedar Point honors service members and first responders with year-round discounted admission. Eligible individuals include active U.S. military, retired military, veterans, reserves, and first responders.

Discounted single-day tickets start from $45 online (plus taxes/fees) and allow the purchase of up to six tickets for family and friends. Eligibility must be verified online, typically through ID.me.

Additionally, eligible military personnel and first responders can receive up to 10% off stays at select Cedar Point resort hotels (Cedar Point’s Express Hotel, Sawmill Creek Resort, Castaway Bay) on certain dates. Valid ID is required at check-in.

5. Traveling with a Crew? There Are Group Discounts

Special group pricing is available for groups of 15-99 planning a visit together, with prices starting from $45. As an added incentive, groups receive one free ticket for every 15 tickets purchased within this range.

Cedar Point also offers bigger discounts for larger groups (100+) and specialized programs for student/youth groups and corporate events.

Check out the Group Sales section on the Cedar Point website for specific rates and booking information.

6. Have Little Ones? Don’t Forget the Pre-K Pass

Families with young children (ages 3-5) should look at the Cedar Point Pre-K Pass. This program offers complimentary season-long admission for eligible preschool-aged children.

Parents need to register their child online by August 1, 2025, and provide proof of age (birth certificate or passport) during activation at the park by the same date. A child is eligible if their parent or guardian has a 2025 Gold or Prestige Pass.

7. Bundle & Save with Vacation Packages

Booking a vacation package can make staying overnight at one of Cedar Point’s official resorts (including hotels like Hotel Breakers, Lighthouse Point, Cedar Point’s Express Hotel, Castaway Bay, Sawmill Creek, or the Lighthouse Point campgrounds ) more economical.

These packages bundle lodging with park admission and can include valuable perks such as Early Entry (allowing access to select rides before the general public), complimentary parking, or dining credits.

You’ll find these in the Vacation Packages section on the Cedar Point website. Expedia also advertises Cedar Point Vacation packages for hotels off the resort. These don’t include tickets, but the deals are good and can include rental cars.

8. Keep an Eye on the Official “Special Offers” Page

Cedar Point may introduce limited-time promotions, special event bundles, or unique deals throughout the season. The dedicated “Special Offers” page on the official website is the best place to find these.

9. Other Places to Save Like AAA & Value Adds

Beyond direct ticket discounts, consider these additional avenues for potential savings or enhancing the value of a Cedar Point visit:

AAA/CAA Member Discounts: Ticket & Lodging Deals

Several regional AAA club websites indicate that discounted Cedar Point tickets are available online, often through partner platforms like Ticket Monster. These discounts may offer savings compared to Cedar Point’s direct online prices.

The best approach is for AAA/CAA members to check directly with their specific regional club’s website. I saw this deal for opening day on AAA and compared it to Cedar Point. AAA was cheaper.

AAA on the left (pre-taxes which there will be some depending on your state) and CedarPoint.com on the right for May 3, 2025.

Cedar Point’s website currently advertises an AAA/CAA discount offering up to 10% off stays at Cedar Point’s Express Hotel or Sawmill Creek Resort on select dates. A valid AAA or CAA membership card is required at check-in (this is typical for AAA discounts—don’t forget your card!).

Dining, Drink & Fast Lane Add-ons: Worth the Cost?

Cedar Point offers several optional add-ons that can impact the overall cost and experience:

Dining Plans: All Season Dining Plans (starting from $105 or $145 depending on pass type/payment plan) allow passholders two meals per day at participating locations. Daily meal deals are also available. These can offer savings for families planning to eat multiple meals inside the park, but your choices are limited to specific restaurants and menu items.

All Season Dining Plans (starting from $105 or $145 depending on pass type/payment plan) allow passholders two meals per day at participating locations. Daily meal deals are also available. These can offer savings for families planning to eat multiple meals inside the park, but your choices are limited to specific restaurants and menu items. Drink Plans: Season Pass Drink Plans (from $35.99) offer refills on Coca-Cola fountain beverages throughout the season, with options for including ICEE, coffee, and hot chocolate. Daily drink wristbands are also sold.

Season Pass Drink Plans (from $35.99) offer refills on Coca-Cola fountain beverages throughout the season, with options for including ICEE, coffee, and hot chocolate. Daily drink wristbands are also sold. Fast Lane / Fast Lane Plus: To minimize wait times, Cedar Point offers Fast Lane passes. The standard Fast Lane covers many popular rides, while Fast Lane Plus is required to bypass lines on the most popular coasters, including Steel Vengeance, Maverick, Millennium Force, Valravn, and the new-for-2025 attractions Siren’s Curse and Top Thrill 2. You have to weigh the cost against your tolerance for queues.

Whether these add-ons are “worth it” depends on individual habits, budget, and your priorities for the park visit.

Leverage Pass Perks Rewards (If You Have a Pass)

Cedar Point offers a Pass Perks Rewards program for its Season Passholders. While specifics vary, loyal visitors can be rewarded with exclusive in-park discounts, special offers, access to events, or points accumulation leading to rewards.

You need to register for the program and monitor the park app for personalized offers that could provide extra savings.

Planning Your 2025 Visit: Key Info & New Thrills

With savings strategies covered, here’s essential information for planning a trip to Cedar Point in 2025.

Mark Your Calendars: Key Dates & Hours

The 2025 season kicks off on Saturday, May 3, 2025. Initial park operating hours are listed as 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., with Cedar Point Shores Waterpark closed early in the season.

It is essential to check the official Cedar Point Calendar & Hours page on their website for the specific dates of your planned visit to confirm park hours, waterpark hours (when open), and any potential variations.

Fun events announced include Coastermania on June 6 and the Light Up The Point fireworks celebration on July 4. The popular HalloWeekends event dates, typically from mid-September through October, should be confirmed on the park’s official calendar later in the year.

Get Ready for New Rides!

2025 promises major excitement with the debut of two significant new coasters (you’ll need Fast Lane Plus for line-skipping access):

Siren’s Curse: Opening in Summer 2025, this groundbreaking attraction is billed as North America’s tallest, longest, and fastest tilt roller coaster—based on Lake Erie legends.

Opening in Summer 2025, this groundbreaking attraction is billed as North America’s tallest, longest, and fastest tilt roller coaster—based on Lake Erie legends. Top Thrill 2: Following extensive re-imagining, this coaster wants to reclaim its status as a record-breaker, launching as the world’s tallest and fastest triple-launch strata coaster.

Quick Tips: Parking, Policies & Website

Parking: Daily parking is typically an additional charge unless you have a Season Pass (Summer, Gold, or Prestige) with free parking. Parking receipts can sometimes be credited towards a pass upgrade on the day of visit.

Daily parking is typically an additional charge unless you have a Season Pass (Summer, Gold, or Prestige) with free parking. Parking receipts can sometimes be credited towards a pass upgrade on the day of visit. Park Policies: Review park policies online, such as chaperone requirements (if applicable, similar policies exist at other parks like Worlds of Fun and Knott’s Berry Farm), permitted items, and code of conduct. Cedar Point is cashless, but Cash-to-Card kiosks are available.

Review park policies online, such as chaperone requirements (if applicable, similar policies exist at other parks like Worlds of Fun and Knott’s Berry Farm), permitted items, and code of conduct. Cedar Point is cashless, but Cash-to-Card kiosks are available. Official Website: The definitive source for all information is the official Cedar Point website: www.cedarpoint.com. Use it to check hours , purchase tickets , view park maps , explore dining options, and find answers to frequently asked questions. Be wary of unauthorized resellers.

The definitive source for all information is the official Cedar Point website: www.cedarpoint.com. Use it to check hours , purchase tickets , view park maps , explore dining options, and find answers to frequently asked questions. Be wary of unauthorized resellers. Contact: For accessibility concerns or assistance accessing website information, the park can be contacted at (419) 627-2350.

Final Thoughts: Your 2025 Cedar Point Savings Strategy

Navigating Cedar Point discounts in 2025 requires adapting to the merger’s changes. The most effective strategy right now centers on purchasing directly from Cedar Point but I will certainly let you know when that changes!

To maximize savings:

Always buy tickets online, in advance, directly from CedarPoint.com to secure savings over gate prices. Calculate the value of a Season Pass (Summer, Gold, or Prestige) if planning two or more visits, factoring in the savings from included parking. Check eligibility for specific discounts, particularly Military/First Responder rates or Group rates if applicable. AAA/CAA members should check with their regional club for potential ticket discounts and look for official lodging deals. Explore official vacation packages if you are staying overnight at a park resort. Monitor the “Special Offers” page for limited-time deals. Don’t waste time searching obsolete channels like former authorized sellers, Costco, or most grocery stores for primary ticket discounts. But if you do find something of value there, let me know!

By focusing on these official channels and planning ahead, visitors can still find ways to make their trip to the legendary Cedar Point, complete with exciting new coasters like Siren’s Curse and Top Thrill 2, more affordable in 2025. Enjoy the thrills!

We Discuss Discounts at Other Cedar Fair Parks

Get the details for saving at other park:

And here are discount tips for other theme parks:

Key takeaways

Costco Travel offers travel deals on car rentals, cruises, vacation packages, and more, leveraging their selective group-purchase model for competitive pricing and perks, available only to members.

There are to membership types available to the average customer—Gold Star and Executive—with the Executive membership offering a 2% annual reward, extra travel perks, and potential savings on bookings like car rentals and vacation packages.

Costco Travel provides bundled vacation packages, cruises, flights (with lodging), and car rentals at discounted rates, often including rebates, rewards, and free extras like additional drivers for car rentals.

While Costco offers competitive pricing and added perks, there are limitations such as a limited choice of airlines, hotels, and rental car agencies, as well as restrictions on frequent flyer mileage redemption and cancellation fees.

With Going membership plans, you can get real-time flight hacks as soon as prices drop for domestic and international flights. That way, you know you’re getting the some of the cheapest flights every time.

You may already be familiar with Costco for rock-bottom pricing on favorite bulk grocery items, household goods, and gas. However, you may not be aware that Costco offers equally great deals on car rentals, cruises, and vacation packages.

What does Costco know about travel? It turns out a lot. They have been in the travel space for over 20 years, since 2000, bringing the same highly selective group purchase practice to vacations that they deliver to their warehouse aisles.

Think of Costco Travel as an easy-to-use online travel agent offering a limited selection of quality trip options with enviable rebates and perks—depending on your membership level. While it’s not typically the best deal for independent travelers, those looking for one-click booking on package trips will get value out of it. And it’s hard to beat Costco’s rates on car rentals.

And yes, you must be a Costco member to use Costco Travel.

How much does a Costco membership cost?

Costco has two membership categories with two levels of perks and pricing under each.

The first membership type is a Personal Membership. Anyone can purchase either the Gold Star Personal Membership ($60) or the Executive Personal Membership ($120) with a 2% annual reward.

The second type of membership is a Business Membership. The two levels within the Business Membership are the Business ($60) and the Business Executive ($120).

Ready to travel like a pro? Unlock exclusive deals and VIP benefits with Going Elite Membership!

Which membership should you buy? The one that best fits your budget. However, the Executive Membership with its 2% reward, maxing out at $1000 each year, could save you a lot of money.

Consider one $3,000 trip booked with Costco Travel using an Executive Membership at 2% generates a $60 reward. Additionally, Executive Members are eligible for extra travel perks and upgrades, depending on the trip. And keep in mind the 2% reward applies to all Costco purchases—except gas and a handful of other items.

View a sample earning table for the 2% Executive Membership reward below to see how your savings might build.

Want to save big on your next flight? Check out our top flight hacks and start booking smarter today!

Costco Travel flights

Costco Travel does not sell standalone flights. Costco members can only purchase flights when bundled with a lodging or travel package purchase. There are a few benefits to doing this.

‍ Time savings and less hassle. Find and book all of your travel needs, including your airfare, in one place. Receive one itinerary, including flight details, to keep track of it all ‍

Find and book all of your travel needs, including your airfare, in one place. Receive one itinerary, including flight details, to keep track of it all Accrue frequent flier mileage. Continue to earn frequent flier mileage on your favorite carriers. Enter your mileage membership numbers during booking.

Continue to earn frequent flier mileage on your favorite carriers. Enter your mileage membership numbers during booking. ‍Rewards. Executive Members earn a 2% reward on all non-taxable Costco Travel, including airfare.

Alternatively, there are a handful of downsides to buying your flight from Costco Travel. They are:

Cancellation fees. Your flight may be subject to cancellation fees. View the example below to see cancellation fees set to $200 per person for a Costco Travel roundtrip flight from Chicago to Cancun. This same flight booked directly with the carrier is not subject to these fees.

Your flight may be subject to cancellation fees. View the example below to see cancellation fees set to $200 per person for a Costco Travel roundtrip flight from Chicago to Cancun. This same flight booked directly with the carrier is not subject to these fees. Pricing: Compared to the prices Going flights finds, Costco’s fares are pretty average. In comes cases, the price might be lower if you book your flights independently of the package deal you find on Costco. ‍

Compared to the prices finds, Costco’s fares are pretty average. In comes cases, the price might be lower if you book your flights independently of the package deal you find on Costco. Limited choice. Costco Travel does not work with all airlines. A notable exception for US travelers is Southwest Airlines. ‍

Costco Travel does not work with all airlines. A notable exception for US travelers is Southwest Airlines. Seat selection hassle. Costco Travel users regularly report seeing limited seating choices or finding seating maps unavailable when booking flights. As a workaround, enter your flight confirmation number from your Costco Travel booking into the carrier’s website to pick from a wider selection of non-discounted seats. ‍

Costco Travel users regularly report seeing limited seating choices or finding seating maps unavailable when booking flights. As a workaround, enter your flight confirmation number from your Costco Travel booking into the carrier’s website to pick from a wider selection of non-discounted seats. No frequent flier mileage redemption. You cannot purchase flights with frequent flier mileage on Costco Travel. ‍

You cannot purchase flights with frequent flier mileage on Costco Travel. Costco Travel is your customer service. If an issue arises with your flight, you must contact Costco Travel for changes or resolution. Many Costco members report frustration with recent overly long hold times.

How to book a flight with Costco Travel

To book a flight with Costco Travel, go to the Costco Travel homepage to use the main search form.

If using the form to search for a Vacation Package, enter the Destination and Region you would like to travel for your dates. Alternatively, you can also search for a flight with a hotel stay or cruise. Keep in mind, you can only buy a flight from Costco Travel when bundled with a travel package.

Next on the form, select your departure airport in the Flying From field, as well as your flying class. Also, if you are traveling with kids, enter the ages of all children to get accurate package pricing. Click Find My Vacations to view your travel options.

Based on the search terms in this example, there are 16 matching packages. The lowest price is Occidental at Xcaret ($4,968). This package includes four roundtrip flights from Chicago to Cancun, lodging, and other extras.

To book the package, click View Details & Customize. And then review, checkbox, and click I Understand on the Travel Advisory. Now you can view your flight options. You will see Included Flights at the top of the page. These are the flights Costco Travel selected as the most convenient and affordable for your package.

Scroll down the page to view Additional Flights Available or use the filter to narrow your search. For this trip, there are more than 200 matching flights.

If a cheaper flight appeals to you, click Select and then Accept when Costco Travel displays a notification screen confirming the price change and your new flight selection.

However, if you want to stick with the included flight, click Continue to Hotel in the upper right-hand corner of the screen to complete your booking.

Don’t overspend on airfare—learn how to save money on flights and travel more for less.

Are Costco Travel Flights a good deal?

Avid Costco Travel fans swear they get better deals on flights bought as part of a Costco package. However, it is best to research comparable flight prices before you book.

Because Costco Travel does not itemize travel package pricing, it is hard to know how much a flight costs without extra effort. To compare your Costco Travel flight, you need to compare package pricing with and without the flight. Unclick the Flying From box to do this.

For example, from our Xcaret trip from above, the cost for a weeklong Costco Travel package that includes airfare to Cancún for a family of four to stay at an all-inclusive resort is $4,968. This same Costco Travel package without the airfare costs $2,849.

The price difference is $2,119, or the cost of the airfare.

Can you get a better price for a similarly well-timed roundtrip non-stop flight to Cancún? Most likely.

A search on the carrier’s website for the same flight showed the cost for four tickets at $2,305, or $186 more than the Costco Travel price. But a week later on the Google Flights page, a similar flight was down to $1,924. That works out to $481 roundtrip per person, which is roughly the average airfare for a flight to Cancún.

But Going doesn’t find average airfares. In fact, we’ve frequently found deals under $200 roundtrip to Cancún like $170 roundtrip from Chicago, $157 roundtrip from Austin, or $189 roundtrip from Denver—all on nonstop flights.

How to use Costco to book flights with Going

The best way to use Costco Travel and Going together is to receive Going flight alerts to stay informed on the best fares. When you see a flight price you love, go to Costco Travel’s website to explore packages to that location.

Once you find a package you like, price it for the dates you can travel—with airfare and without—to know your flight cost.

If the price looks better on Costco Travel and you are okay with the potential cons of booking your ticket through them, then jump on the deal. Otherwise, you can book the flight directly with the airline or an OTA and still buy the land-only package from Costco Travel.

What airlines does Costco travel use?

Aegean Airlines

Aer Lingus

Air Canada

Air Europa

Air France

Air New Zealand

Air Tahiti

Air Tahiti Nui

Air Transat

Alaska Airlines

Alitalia

American Airlines

Bahamas Air

British Airways

Cayman Airways

Delta Air Lines

Fiji Airways

Hawaiian Airlines

Iberia

Lufthansa

Olympic Air

Sky Express

United Airlines

WestJet

Virgin Atlantic

Costco Travel car rentals

Costco Travel regularly offers some of the best deals on rental cars. Expect better models for lower prices from the industry’s most reputable car rental agencies.

The pros of renting a car with Costco Travel are many. They include:

Pricing. Costco Travel generally offers the lowest prices from the highest quality vendors.

Costco Travel generally offers the lowest prices from the highest quality vendors. Booking a car with a reputable agency. Costco Travel does not work with low-cost carriers.

Costco Travel does not work with low-cost carriers. Free additional drivers. Additional drivers, which can often cost $10 or more per day, are included with every booking.

Additional drivers, which can often cost $10 or more per day, are included with every booking. No upfront payment. Reserve Costco Travel rental cars with no deposit or prepayments.

Reserve Costco Travel rental cars with no deposit or prepayments. Free cancellation. Cancel a car rental with zero penalties.

Cancel a car rental with zero penalties. No hidden fees. Costco Travel rental car pricing includes taxes. Expect no surprises at the rental counter.

Costco Travel rental car pricing includes taxes. Expect no surprises at the rental counter. Easy comparisons. The Costco Travel website shows car rental options in an easy-to-view grid, making it simple to find the best deal across vehicle types.

The Costco Travel website shows car rental options in an easy-to-view grid, making it simple to find the best deal across vehicle types. Earn loyalty program points . Enter your preferred loyalty program number at booking to earn points.

. Enter your preferred loyalty program number at booking to earn points. Rebates. Some rentals include a Costco Shop Card.

Some rentals include a Costco Shop Card. Rewards. Executive Members earn a 2% reward on all non-taxable car rental bookings.

There is one major con to renting a car through Costco, it is:

Limited choice. Costco Travel only works with four rental car agencies. You will not be able to rent from major players like Hertz, or discount agencies like Sixt, Fox, or Payless, among others.

Unlock secret savings—these flight hacks will help you book cheaper tickets every time.

Are Costco car rentals a good deal?

How do Costco car rentals stack up against other booking sites? Let’s compare a springtime week-long car rental in Honolulu to find out.

The cheapest car available on Costco Travel from the Honolulu airport costs $610 for a week, including all taxes and an additional driver. This price and same vehicle type are available from both Alamo and Enterprise.

A quick search on CarRentals.com tells us the cheapest car in Honolulu for the same period is from ACE Rent a Car and costs $577, including tax.

On the surface, the ACE rental looks like a better deal.

However, the ACE rate does not include an additional driver. The fine print on the ACE Rules and Restrictions page tells us that adding a driver costs $11 per day. Across eight days, this fee increases the ACE rate by $88, making the Costco rental the better deal for those who plan to have more than one person drive.

Which car rental companies work with Costco?

Costco Travel only works with four rental car agencies. They are:

Alamo

Avis

Budget

Enterprise

How to book a car rental with Costco

On the Costco Travel homepage, start a car rental booking from one of two places—the Rental Car tab in the main search box or from Rental Cars in the main menu.

To search car rentals, enter your Pick-up and Drop-off Locations, Dates, and Times. For roundtrip rentals, your Pick-up and Drop-off Location will be the same. For one-way rentals, click Drop-Off At a Different Location to enter a different Drop-off location.

Once you set your search details, click Find My Car to view your rental options. See below for a search results table for a one-way rental from LA to San Diego in April. The cheapest rental costs $621.

From the search results grid, click on any price to show more detail for the rental car, as is shown above.

Once you see a price and vehicle you like, click Continue to book it. You will now have a chance to select optional equipment for your rental, such as booster seats, Wi-Fi, and more. After making your selections, click Continue at the bottom of the screen.

You now have one more chance to upgrade your vehicle. If you like your original price and vehicle, skip the upgrade and click Continue.

After this step, you must log in to book the rental. Once logged in, enter contact information and accept the terms and conditions. Then click Finalize Booking.

Costco Travel Packages

Costco travel packages typically include lodging and may also include airfare, airport transfers, and car rental, as well as activities—depending on the trip—for some of the best pricing in the industry.

Costco separates travel packages into four main categories. They are:

1. Vacation Packages which include stays at resorts or hotels, as well as airport transfers and some extras. Package pricing usually defaults to include airfare, though you can buy a package without the flight. Or you can build your own package by selecting any combination of hotel, airfare, or car rental.

2. Specialty Vacations are for African safaris and guided vacations booked with outside providers that are priced exclusively for Costco members.

3. Cruises are available on 12 different cruise lines for some of the best value and rebates in the industry.

4. Theme Parks include discounted stays bundled with admission tickets at Disney or Universal properties.

Costco Travel will sometimes assign one of three value labels to their travel packages. These labels are:

Kirkland Signature. Expect the most extras and the best rooms at the lowest prices. View Kirkland Signature Vacations here.

Buyer’s Choice. Typically one tier below Kirkland Signature trip value. Find Buyer’s Choice trips on the Costco Travel home page or here.

Limited-Time Deals. Members must book these trips by a set date to take advantage of savings and perks. Find Limited-Time deals here.

There are many pros to booking a travel package with Costco Travel. They are:

Pricing. Costco Travel’s package bundling can save hundreds of dollars on your vacation.

Costco Travel’s package bundling can save hundreds of dollars on your vacation. Time savings. By shopping for pre-vetted vacation providers and entering all of your traveler details only once in one place, you will simplify your trip planning and save time.

By shopping for pre-vetted vacation providers and entering all of your traveler details only once in one place, you will simplify your trip planning and save time. Travel advisories. Costco Travel will alert members to travel advisories and important visitor information during the booking process.

Costco Travel will alert members to travel advisories and important visitor information during the booking process. Partial payments. To secure your booking, Costco may require only a partial payment.

To secure your booking, Costco may require only a partial payment. Price reductions. If you see a price reduction on the land portion of your Vacation Package, you can call Costco Travel customer service to ask them to pass on the savings.

If you see a price reduction on the land portion of your Vacation Package, you can call Costco Travel customer service to ask them to pass on the savings. Rebates. Earn rebates on many packages in the form of a Costco Shop Card valued at 5-8% of lodging costs.

Earn rebates on many packages in the form of a Costco Shop Card valued at 5-8% of lodging costs. Rewards and extras. In addition to earning a 2% Reward on all non-taxable travel spending, Executive Members are eligible for perks, such as room upgrades or resort credits—depending on the trip.

The main con to booking a Vacation Package through Costco Travel is:

Limited choice. Costco only works with a limited number of lodging vendors to set destinations. If you do not see a hotel or resort you like for a place you want to visit, you will need to search elsewhere.

Are Costco vacation packages a good deal?

Like with flights or car rental bookings, it is best to research pricing to ensure your Costco Travel package offers the best deal.

Let’s consider the same Xcaret package we used above. The total cost for this package, which includes roundtrip airfare for a family of four to stay at an all-inclusive resort, is $4,968.

Pricing this same trip without airfare, we discovered tickets cost around $1,900 when bought from the carrier at an average price. Add this to the room bought directly from the resort, which costs $2,422.

Bonus: Keep an eye on Costco Travel Black Friday deals—you can snag some awesome prices!

How does this stack up? The total for our independently booked trip is $4,336, or $622 less than the Costco Travel package. Also, considering the resort offers free airport transfers for stays longer than six days, there is no added value to this extra in the Costco package.

But, when you add the $229 Costco Shop Card that comes with this package and the 2% Executive Member rewards, higher-tier members can expect to see a return of over $300, making the price difference only $300. For some travelers, the convenience of being able to book everything at once may be worth it. For more price-conscious travelers, booking separately—especially if you can score a deal from Going that cuts your airport in half—it’s smarter to book everything on your own.

Cruises on Costco Travel

Some of the most experienced travelers who love cruises claim Costco Travel is their first and last stop when planning a cruise due to its hard-to-beat pricing, rebates, and rewards. For example, the cost for a five-night Western Caribbean Disney cruise for a family of four in the most affordable room on Costco Travel is $7,303, including tax and a $595 Costco Shop Card.

This same trip costs $7,358 on the Disney Cruise website. Considering the rebate and 2% Executive Member rewards—Costco Travel offers a better deal.

Costco Travel works with 12 cruise lines. They are:

Azamara

Carnival Cruise Line

Celebrity Cruises

Cunard

Disney Cruise Line

Holland America Line

Norwegian Cruise Line

Princess Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Royal Caribbean

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

The pros of booking a cruise with Costco Travel include:

Pricing. You will find Costco Travel offers highly competitive pricing on cruises, even before taking rebates and rewards into account.

You will find Costco Travel offers highly competitive pricing on cruises, even before taking rebates and rewards into account. Value labeling. Kirkland Signature and Buyer’s Choice cruises offer the best value for members.

Kirkland Signature and Buyer’s Choice cruises offer the best value for members. Price reductions. Members can track cruise price drops to get a better deal and contact Costco to honor price reductions.

Members can track cruise price drops to get a better deal and contact Costco to honor price reductions. Rebates . Most cruises offer a 5-8% rebate on non-taxable cruise costs in the form of a Costco Shop Card.

. Most cruises offer a 5-8% rebate on non-taxable cruise costs in the form of a Costco Shop Card. Rewards and perks. Executive Members earn a 2% reward on all non-taxable cruise spending and are eligible for extras such as room upgrades, shipboard credits, and more—depending on the trip.

The cons of booking a cruise with Costco Travel are:

Limited choice. Costco does not work with all cruise lines, including many higher-end ones, such as Windstar, Viking, and Oceania, among others.

Costco does not work with all cruise lines, including many higher-end ones, such as Windstar, Viking, and Oceania, among others. Rebates instead of shipboard credits. Instead of offering shipboard credits as most travel agents do, Costco offers cruisers rebates on a Costco Shop Card. Although the cards generally offer a higher value, cruisers have to wait four to six weeks after the trip to receive them.

Instead of offering shipboard credits as most travel agents do, Costco offers cruisers rebates on a Costco Shop Card. Although the cards generally offer a higher value, cruisers have to wait four to six weeks after the trip to receive them. No one is tracking price drops for you. Costco does not proactively track cruise prices and share price reductions in the way a travel agent might. Cruisers must do this themselves and request Costco Travel for the adjustment.

Costco does not proactively track cruise prices and share price reductions in the way a travel agent might. Cruisers must do this themselves and request Costco Travel for the adjustment. Less hand-holding. Costco Travel customer service agents are not cruise specialists. First-time cruisers with questions may prefer booking directly with a dedicated specialist.

Theme parks on Costco Travel

Costco works with the following theme parks:

Walt Disney World

Universal Orlando

Disneyland Resorts

For example, a one-week trip for a family of four that includes five-day Park Hopper tickets staying at The Art Of Animation in Walt Disney World costs $5,139 on Costco Travel. This same package booked directly on Disney’s Art Of Animation website costs $6,985. The Costco Travel savings here are huge.

The two major benefits of booking a theme park package with Costco Travel are better pricing and reward earnings for Executive Members.

The significant con in buying from Costco Travel is that theme parks visits can be confusing. Inexperienced or first-time visitors may find it helpful to book with a dedicated theme park travel agent who can answer questions, such as how to reserve rides, make dinner reservations, or get tickets to special events.

Costco Travel hotels

Costco Travel works with a limited number of pre-selected hotel brands so expect only a few lodging choices for any given destination.

However, if it turns out Costco Travel has lodging that you like for a place you plan to go, expect to get a better price, as well as perks, rebates, or rewards unavailable elsewhere.

The pros of booking a hotel through Costco Travel include:

Time savings. For travelers who suffer decision fatigue, sorting through a smaller list of pre-vetted options is a welcome change.

For travelers who suffer decision fatigue, sorting through a smaller list of pre-vetted options is a welcome change. Pricing. Costco Travel nearly always offers a better price for rooms with their vendors. Even before considering potential extras.

Costco Travel nearly always offers a better price for rooms with their vendors. Even before considering potential extras. Partial payment. Costco Travel may only require a deposit to secure a hotel booking—depending on the property and travel date.

Costco Travel may only require a deposit to secure a hotel booking—depending on the property and travel date. Price reductions. If you see a price reduction on your hotel booking, you can call Costco Travel customer service to ask them to pass on the savings.

If you see a price reduction on your hotel booking, you can call Costco Travel customer service to ask them to pass on the savings. Rebates . For some bookings, Costco Travel may offer a rebate valued at 5-8% of lodging costs in the form of a Costco Shop Card.

. For some bookings, Costco Travel may offer a rebate valued at 5-8% of lodging costs in the form of a Costco Shop Card. Extras. Regardless of membership level, extras—such as airport transfers or late checkout—may be included at no cost. Executive Members may be eligible for additional perks.

Regardless of membership level, extras—such as airport transfers or late checkout—may be included at no cost. Executive Members may be eligible for additional perks. Rewards. Executive Members earn a 2% reward on all non-taxable hotel spending.

The cons of booking a hotel through Costco Travel are:

Limited selection. Costco works with four major hotel brands, some of which only have middling ratings. Travelers looking for exemplary service or boutique lodging may have to look elsewhere.

Costco works with four major hotel brands, some of which only have middling ratings. Travelers looking for exemplary service or boutique lodging may have to look elsewhere. Not many family-friendly accommodation options. Many families appreciate having space to spread out while traveling, such as separate bedrooms within one unit. Costco generally does not provide this kind of lodging, nor does it offer an easy way to search for properties that have it.

Are Costco hotels a good deal?

Even before assigning a value to the rebates, rewards, and extras, Costco Travel will nearly always offer a better price on hotel stays for the properties it sells.

For example, Costco Travel prices a 7-night stay in a San Juan, PR hotel for a family of four at $3,621. This room for the same period costs $3,900 on the hotel website.

Coming in nearly $300 less, Costco Travel offers better hotel pricing. And Costco further sweetens the San Juan hotel package by providing complimentary roundtrip airport transfers, a $235 Costco Shop Card, and an Executive Member benefit of a $15 resort credit per day.

Which hotel companies work with Costco?

Costco Travel works with four major hotel brands. They are:

IHG Hotels & Resorts. This includes 15 different hotel brands like the Holiday Inn, the InterContinental, and the Kimpton Hotel, among others.

Hyatt. This includes 11 Hyatt brands across North and South America.

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts

Swissotel Hotels & Resorts

How to book a hotel with Costco

To book a hotel with Costco Travel, including an all inclusive, use the main search form on the Costco Travel home page. Click on the hotel icon to conduct a hotel-only search.

Or, browse hotel brands from Costco Travel’s main menu dropdown. Select your preferred brand, and you will arrive at a page with the same search box, though you can scroll down to view that brand’s featured properties.

When using the main search box to query hotel stays, fill in your destination, travel dates, number of rooms requested, and number of travelers. If you are traveling with children, enter that here. Their ages may affect lodging pricing. Once you submit your travel details, click Find My Hotel to view options.

From this hotel snapshot, you can see several things, including the total price for your stay, included extras, property photos, and reviews from other Costco Travel members. To continue with the booking, click View Details & Customize. Read through and agree to the Travel Advisory. You will now arrive on your hotel detail page. On this page, you can click to Learn More about the property, including the on-site dining options, room types, and member reviews. You can also review rate details, cancellation policies, and additional information regarding included extras.

You can also explore other room options from this page by clicking Modify Room. If you want to keep your original room, click Keep Current Selection.

Also, note the Total Price of your hotel package in the upper right-hand corner of your screen, as well as the Amount Due Today—the deposit required to secure the reservation and make the booking.

Once you have reviewed all details and are ready to book, click Continue To Transportation—if transportation is part of your package. Otherwise, select Continue to Recap to log in and the booking.

The perks of booking with Costco

Pricing. Costco Travel will offer the most competitive pricing on many of the products it sells, even before considering rebates and rewards.

Costco Travel will offer the most competitive pricing on many of the products it sells, even before considering rebates and rewards. Rebates. Many Costco vacation packages and some hotel bookings include a complimentary Costco Shop Card, or gift card, calculated up to 5-8% of the lodging value. Members receive the card in the mail four to six weeks after the trip.

Many Costco vacation packages and some hotel bookings include a complimentary Costco Shop Card, or gift card, calculated up to 5-8% of the lodging value. Members receive the card in the mail four to six weeks after the trip. Rewards. Executive Members earn an additional 2% reward on all non-taxable trip costs. All 2% Rewards accrued for the year are paid in one certificate approximately three months before membership renewal.

Executive Members earn an additional 2% reward on all non-taxable trip costs. All 2% Rewards accrued for the year are paid in one certificate approximately three months before membership renewal. Credit card savings. Pay for a trip with a Costco Anywhere Visa card and get an additional 3% cashback on travel. Combine this benefit with a Costco Shop Card and an Executive Membership, and you could tally a 10% return on your travel spending.

Pay for a trip with a Costco Anywhere Visa card and get an additional 3% cashback on travel. Combine this benefit with a Costco Shop Card and an Executive Membership, and you could tally a 10% return on your travel spending. Extras. Some trips sold on Costco Travel offer extras such as late checkouts or complimentary airport transfers regardless of member status. However, Executive Members get additional perks that could include complimentary meals, spa credits, room upgrades, or VIP airport experiences, among others.

Some trips sold on Costco Travel offer extras such as late checkouts or complimentary airport transfers regardless of member status. However, Executive Members get additional perks that could include complimentary meals, spa credits, room upgrades, or VIP airport experiences, among others. Price reduction pass-through. Costco Travel will pass on lodging price reductions . Travelers who see a price drop on the land portion of their trips can call Customer Service to request the savings.

Costco Travel will pass on lodging price reductions Travelers who see a price drop on the land portion of their trips can call Customer Service to request the savings. Stay informed . Booking on Costco Travel will keep you informed about travel advisories, as well as government taxes and fees for international trips.

. Booking on Costco Travel will keep you informed about travel advisories, as well as government taxes and fees for international trips. No surprises. Costco Travel package pricing includes all taxes and fees—except for departure taxes and other local taxes and fees collected by local governments.

Costco Travel package pricing includes all taxes and fees—except for departure taxes and other local taxes and fees collected by local governments. Convenience. All of your travel documents and bookings will be from one vendor in one place.

Costco Travel insurance

Costco Travel does not directly sell travel insurance. Instead, it offers member-only rates through their preferred travel partner, Zurich Travel Insurance.

Members have the option to buy plans through Zurich that could include any of the following coverages:

Trip Cancellation

Trip Interruption

Travel Delay

Baggage Loss or Delay

Emergency Medical Expense, including those related to Covid-19

Rental Car Damage, including due to accidental collision, theft, and vandalism

The best time to book depends on the type of cruise, when you want to travel, and your tolerance for risk.

Reserve popular or new itineraries as early as possible to get the best prices and accommodations.

You may be able to snag a deal during the winter wave season or at the last minute as companies lower prices to fill cabins, though choices can be limited.

Saving money feels good—almost as good as sitting on the top deck of a Caribbean-bound cruise with a cocktail in hand. It’s easier than you think to get the best of both worlds—you just need to know the best time to book. In many cases, securing your spot as early as possible will get you the best price. If you miss the early-bird fares, consider waiting until the wave season, January through March, when cruise promotions abound. Of course, pricing also fluctuates based on demand.

The best time to book a cruise depends largely on when you want to travel, what you want out of the experience, and whether you’re daring enough to wait for a deal. Read on to find out how to snag the cruise of your dreams without breaking the bank.

When to Book Early

If you have your sights set on a high-demand sailing—for example, on a new ship or during school breaks—the best time to book will likely be as soon as the fares are released. Experts say this is particularly true if you want to get the best cruise deals on a luxury line like Silversea or Seabourn, a Disney Cruise, or a small ship sailing. As the ship fills up, prices increase. Apart from saving you money, booking early might be the only way to guarantee a spot (and secure a particular cabin location).

When to Wait

If you’re not interested in high-season travel or experiencing the latest cruise ship, you can play the waiting game and pounce as soon as fares drop. As any seasoned traveler knows, you can often find lower rates or free add-ons as the departure date approaches and the cruise line works to fill the ship. In those cases, prices will likely drop within 90 or 60 days of embarkation, after final payments are due.

While holding off may result in a once-in-a-lifetime deal, keep in mind that your cabin and category choices may be minimal, and there’s no guarantee you’ll be able to book at all. This approach works best for people with flexible work schedules or retirees who can adjust their travel dates to take advantage of these less expensive fares.

Olga Shevtsova/EyeEm/Getty Images

Tracking Cruise Fares

The only way to really know the best time to book a cruise is to track fares, which you can do through the Shipmate app and Cruise Critic website. Sign up to be alerted if there’s a price drop, taking the stressful task of incessant scanning off your plate. Some people also have luck with requesting a price match even after they’ve booked. It all depends on the cruise line, so keep those alerts on.

Best Time of Year to Book a Cruise

Known as wave season, January through March is often the best time of year to book a cruise. Demand plummets after the holidays, and during this period of industry-wide promotions, the price of that cruise you’ve been dreaming of may drop significantly. It’s also a good time to find booking perks like free upgrades, prepaid gratuities, or onboard spending money.

Best Time of Month to Book a Cruise

While there isn’t a specific time of the month that’s best to book a cruise, monitoring fare changes over several weeks can help you spot any price drops. Cruise prices fluctuate frequently based on availability, demand, and special deals. Unless you’re interested in a high-demand sailing, be patient and look out for flash sales. Don’t overlook traditional discount days like Black Friday and Cyber Monday in late November.

Best Day of the Week to Book a Cruise

People often wonder if there is a specific day of the week when cruise prices consistently drop. Unfortunately, fares don’t rise and fall on a set schedule, and it’s impossible to predict when they’ll change. Your best bet is to track fares throughout the week.

Understanding When and Why Cruise Prices Drop

Wave season may be a popular time to find a good price on a cruise, but not every company releases its best deals during that period. Promotions (or lack thereof) are often based on what is and isn’t selling. If a cruise is filling up quickly, the company has no reason to release a sale to entice customers. But if a cruise’s departure date is fast approaching and the ship is only partially booked, prices will drop and complimentary add-ons will increase, resulting in some happy customers.

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

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Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

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Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Earn 100,000 bonus points + $500 Chase Travel℠ promo credit after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

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Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

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Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Earn 60,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s $600 toward your next trip.

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Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

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Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

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Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

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Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Why you’ll love it: Is a trip to Lubbock a left-field selection as far as cheap family vacations go? It sure is, but Lubbock is a surprisingly fun hub of art, music, theater and mid-century architecture. You’ll love wandering around downtown and looking up at the stunning buildings, as well as popping into stellar restaurants like The Nicolett or sampling the local wineries to visit. Enjoy a show at the glittering new Buddy Holly Performing Arts Center—Lubbock was his home.

Budget tip: This west Texas town is thriving, thanks to one of the most spectacular public art collections found anywhere on earth. Massive sculptures are scattered all over Texas Tech University’s campus. Tours are free and involve riding around in a cute trolley, so even your little ones will be in heaven. To get the kids even more on board, promise them an hour or two at Prairie Dog Town. This public park is every bit as fun (and as literal) as the name suggests. Bring some bread or carrots and feed the little cuties for free.

How to get there: Lubbock can feel like it’s in the middle of nowhere, but the west Texas city is just a five-hour drive from Dallas. If you’d prefer to fly, Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport is just 15 minutes from downtown.

Where to stay: Families will love the Cotton Court Hotel on Broadway. The grassy courtyard is abuzz with activity every night—multiple fire pits, rocking chairs, live music, a bar and a pool.

Why trust us

Reader’s Digest has published hundreds of travel stories that help readers explore the world safely, easily and affordably. We regularly cover topics such as the best places to visit (and the best times to visit them), tips and tricks to zoom through airport security, flight-attendant secrets, hotel-room hacks and more. We’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. For this piece on cheap family vacations, writer Jeff Bogle tapped his experience as a travel journalist and past contributor for Travel + Leisure. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.