Life

8 Cheap Labor Day Road Trip Ideas

by Jessica Learish

As a post-grad grownup, the cruel reality of a life without summer vacations is somehow highlighted just as much by the giddy back-to-school festivities as it is by the sound of your neighbor's high school-aged children playing video games in the middle of the workday — which is why Labor Day couldn't come at a more convenient time. If you are looking to get out of the house and hit the road for somewhere off your normal course, these cheap Labor Day road trips will get you out of town without breaking the bank.

Labor Day has been celebrated as a federal holiday and the unofficial end of summer since 1894 when the Labor Unions campaigned for a holiday that celebrated the social and economic progress that had been made by American workers. I think they should probably change the name of summer's last hurrah to something more appropriate like "Don't Labor Day" or "Lazy Day" to reflect the nationwide acceptance of day-drinking and ignoring emails. If you have been bitten by the travel bug and you don't have pool party plans, check out these inexpensive Labor Day road trips complete with affordable Airbnbs to round out your rest and relaxation.

1. Memphis, TN

This top floor duplex comfortably sleeps four near the Memphis Zoo and the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. It's also a short Uber drive away from the nightlife downtown, and at $95 per night, you can afford an extra rack of Memphis-style BBQ ribs.

2. Grand Haven, MI

Grand Haven is a waterfront town on Lake Michigan complete with a lighthouse and water sports. It's just a stone's throw from Grand Rapids' famous Founders Brewery to the East and Manistee National Forest to the North. You can book this cozy cottage today for just $116 per night.

3. Folly Beach, SC

Perched on the Atlantic on the outskirts of Charleston, you can get in touch with your inner pirate as you enjoy the warm summer nights on this 30-foot cruiser boat. These maritime accommodations will run you just $165 per night — one of the best deals on the East Coast.

4. Austin, TX

Looking for a pool to park yourself at this Labor Day? Look no further than this perfectly priced apartment at $60 per night complete with a shared swimming pool just south of downtown Austin. There's even a bus stop right outside the apartment complex to get you to and from Austin's main attractions — when you're not lounging by the pool, that is.

5. Sonora, CA

If you're feeling like getting off the beaten path this long weekend, consider a trip to Sonora, California, where you can stay in this shiny silver Airstream trailer for just $82 per night. It's less than two hours from Yosemite and right in the middle of California's historic gold country, so keep your eyes peeled for precious metals while you're hiking in the forest.

6. Casper, WY

Have you ever wanted to explore the wild west and all of the ghost towns, defunct train stops, and hideouts for bank robbers still standing? Casper, Wyoming is centrally located between a few awesomely creepy ghost towns that will bring out your inner outlaw. When you're done exploring cowboy country, hang out by the fire pit or in the hot tub out back of this super cute gingerbread house. It's only $85 per night!

7. Lake Norman, NC

Lake Norman is a popular destination for people looking to have a relaxing weekend away, and you can join them for days filled with jet skis and swimming, and nights prime for bonfires and brews by the lake. Book the private entry loft at this beautiful home for $99 per night, and enjoy what North Carolina has to offer.

8. Great Cacapon, WV

This super rustic one-room cabin just on the West Virginia side of the Pennsylvania and Maryland borders has one bed, two hammocks, and proximity to loads of hiking, fishing, and swimming in the river— you'll have to figure out all the other amenities for yourself, including the bathroom. On the plus side at $41 per night, this cabin is both pet and party friendly. Just bring a camping toilet and lots of plastic bags.

Images: Airbnb (8)