Vacationing in the Smoky Mountains on a budget is definitely doable! Here are some tips to help you plan a budget-friendly trip:

1. Figure out the maximum you can spend on a trip to Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and The Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

2. Next Subtract from that amount the cost of gas (see next step), Hotel, and Food. The remaining amount is what you can use for activities and experiences along with  souvenirs. (Please budget for souvenirs)

3. General Travel

   1. Driving?: If you live within a reasonable distance, driving can save on airfare.

      1. Do you need to rent a car? If you use your own vehicle you can save a ton of money.​

      2. Use The Gas Buddy Site Trip Planner to figure out how much gas you will need and add $50 for drives around town. Gas Buddy Trip Planner

   2. Carpool: If traveling with friends or family, carpooling can cut down on gas expenses.

   3.  Consider Off-Season Travel: Visit during the off-peak season (late fall, winter, or early spring, excluding holidays) to find lower prices on accommodations and attractions. Typically this would be Winter months. When kiddos are in school. 

   4. Book Early: Reserve your lodging well in advance to get the best deals. Consider staying in budget-friendly options like motels, cabins, or even campgrounds.

4. Accommodations:

   1. Hotels: Use our recommendations for the lowest cost 7.5 star or better Hotels above or do your own search with our Expedia or Vrbo Search. Typically going through our site link you get more off than logging in from your own browser.

   2. Camping: Camping is one of the most budget-friendly accommodation options. There are many campgrounds in and around the Smoky Mountains National Park with affordable fees.

   3. Rent a Cabin: If you prefer more comfort than camping, consider renting a cabin. While some can be pricey, there are often budget-friendly options available, especially if you're willing to stay a bit further from the main tourist areas. Check out our recommendations or search with our Vrbo app above. We can save you more than going through the website itself

   4. Vacation Rentals: Look for deals on vacation rental sites like Airbnb, Vrbo, or local cabin rental companies. Sometimes these can be more economical than hotels, especially if you have a group.

5. Meals And Dining:

   1. Cook Your Own Meals: Eating out can quickly add up. Consider staying in accommodations with kitchen facilities and cooking your own meals. Visit local grocery stores for ingredients and pack picnic lunches for days out exploring.

   2.   Picnics: Pack a picnic to enjoy at scenic spots in the national park.

   3. Bring Food  In A Cooler: A Decent Cooler will keep food and drinks cold for as long as 12 hours with enough ice, even in 90-degree heat. Sandwichs work people. When you are in Gatlinburg. Park in a public non-gated lot and come back to the car to eat or get drinks. Big money saver here folks.

   4. Budget-Friendly Restaurants: Look for affordable dining options such as diners, cafes, and local eateries. Many places offer hearty Southern meals at reasonable prices.

6. Free Attractions: Take advantage of the many free attractions in the area, such as hiking trails in the national park, scenic drives, and exploring small towns.

   1. ​    Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Enjoy the free activities in the park, such as hiking, picnicking, and sightseeing. The park has no entrance fee.​

   2. Discount Passes: Look for discount passes or combo tickets for attractions.  Sometimes, purchasing tickets for multiple attractions together can save you money.

   3. Coupons: Collect Coupons from Welcome centers, visitor centers, hotels, local brochures, or online for discounts on attractions, dining, and shopping.

   4. Free and Low-Cost Attractions: Visit free or low-cost attractions such as:

      1. ​    The Village Shops: Enjoy window shopping and the quaint atmosphere.

      2.   Old Mill Square: Explore this historic area and its shops.

      3.  Sugarlands Visitor Center: Learn about the park’s history and wildlife.

   5. Self-Guided Tours: Take self-guided walking or driving tours of the area to enjoy the scenery and local culture.

   6. Community Centers: Some local community centers or parks may offer free or low-cost activities like concerts, movie nights, or craft fairs.

7. Use Public Transportation or Carpool: If you're traveling within the area, consider using public transportation or carpooling to save on gas and parking fees. Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg both offer "Free" Trolley Rides Throughout the areas. Here are their links.  Gatlinburg Trolley System   &   Pigeon Forge Trolley System   

8. Shopping: Please allow a budget for some gifts and souvenirs. You will be glad you did and your kids will feel involved. Don't over do it just keep a cash envelope so you don't go over budget. When the cash is gone. you stop buying.

   1. ​    Souvenir Shops: Limit your souvenir shopping to smaller, more affordable items. Many stores offer discounts on certain days or bulk purchases.

   2. Outlet Malls: Visit outlet malls for discounted prices on brand-name goods.

9. Look for Deals: Keep an eye out for deals and discounts on accommodations, attractions, and activities. Websites like Groupon or Travelzoo often offer discounts on activities and lodging.

10. Pack Wisely: Make sure to pack all the essentials you'll need for your trip to avoid unnecessary purchases while you're there.

11. Take Advantage of Nature: One of the biggest draws of the Smoky Mountains is its natural beauty, which is often free to enjoy. Spend your time hiking, swimming in rivers, or simply relaxing in nature.

    1. Visit Cades Cove: Beautiful area and it has a lot of wildlife​

    2. Visit New Found Gap: The views are amazing

    3. Visit Clingmans Dome: It's a 13% Hike for a half mile but, it is totally worth it. It is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains Park. (Dress Appropriately)  

    4. Laurel Falls: Follow the trail and you will see why.

    5. Alun: Another great place.

12. Bring a variety of appropriate clothes. The weather in the mountains changes very very quickly.  It can easily change 30 degrees in a single day.  Purchasing clothes such as jackets, umbrellas, shorts, and rain gear can all add up very quickly. You    may have to take an extra  bag with you on your trip, but you will be glad you did

13. Plan for at least 1 or 2 big things to do. It could be a dinner show and the Ripleys aquarium . It does not matter. Even Anakeesta. It's just to say you did something different. If you can't afford it  this time, plan for it next time.

By implementing these tips, you can enjoy a memorable vacation in the Smoky Mountains without breaking the bank!