Budget Flights in May: These Trips Cost Less Than $650

If you’re dreaming of a getaway but your budget is tight, don’t worry — you can still explore some incredible destinations without spending a fortune ,Spring is in full bloom, and May is the perfect time to take a vacation before the summer crowds arrive and prices rise.. We’ve researched the best places to travel this May for under $650 roundtrip, including flights.

Whether you’re craving a beach, a cultural escape, or just a change of scenery, these three destinations offer fantastic experiences at a fraction of the usual cost.

1. Mexico City, Mexico — Culture, Food, and History on a Budget

Roundtrip flight range (from major U.S. cities): $320–$450

If you want a mix of vibrant street culture, world-class cuisine, and ancient history, Mexico City is a top pick for May travel. Thanks to frequent flights from major U.S. hubs like Los Angeles, Houston, and Miami, roundtrip fares often dip below $450 in spring.

May is also a great time to visit — the weather is warm but not overly hot, and the city’s parks and plazas come alive with locals enjoying the season.

What to Do:

• Explore the Zócalo, one of the largest city squares in the world.
• Visit Frida Kahlo’s house, now a museum, in the colorful Coyoacán neighborhood.
• Take a day trip to the ancient Teotihuacan Pyramids, less than an hour away.
• Enjoy famous street foods like tacos al pastor and elote (grilled corn).

Budget Travel Tip:

Use public transit like the Metro (tickets cost less than $0.50) and stay in a centrally located guesthouse or Airbnb for around $30–50 a night.

Backlink suggestion: Link to tourism guides like VisitMexico.com or budget travel blogs that feature Mexico City travel itineraries.

2. Lisbon, Portugal — Europe on a Budget

Roundtrip flight range (from East Coast): $500–$650

Lisbon is one of the most affordable capital cities in Western Europe, making it perfect for a budget trip in May. Roundtrip flights from East Coast cities like New York, Boston, and Washington D.C. often hover around $550–$600 — well within your budget.

May is the shoulder season in Portugal, meaning you’ll enjoy mild weather, fewer tourists, and lower hotel rates.

What to Do:

• Ride Tram 28 through Lisbon’s scenic old neighborhoods like Alfama and Baixa.
• Visit the Belém Tower and sample the original pastel de nata (custard tart).
• Take a day trip to Sintra, a fairytale town with castles and gardens.

Budget Travel Tip:

Lisbon’s walkable streets, free attractions, and cheap local eats (like €3 sandwiches and €1 espresso) make it easy to stick to a tight budget.

Backlink suggestion: Travel booking platforms like Skyscanner or blog posts like “Budget Travel in Lisbon” from Nomadic Matt or The Broke Backpacker.

3. San Juan, Puerto Rico — Caribbean Paradise with No Passport Needed

Roundtrip flight range (from U.S.): $250–$400

If you’re short on time and cash but want a tropical escape, San Juan, Puerto Rico is unbeatable. Flights from U.S. cities like Orlando, Atlanta, and New York are often under $400 roundtrip — sometimes even as low as $250.

Since Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, you don’t need a passport to visit, and you can use U.S. dollars and your regular phone plan in most cases.

What to Do:

• Stroll through Old San Juan, a colorful colonial city filled with history.
• Relax on nearby beaches like Condado or Isla Verde.
• Explore the El Yunque Rainforest, only an hour away from the city.

Budget Travel Tip:

Avoid the high-end resorts and book a local guesthouse or small hotel in Old San Juan or near the beach for $60–$80 per night.

Backlink suggestion: Include links to Puerto Rico tourism websites like DiscoverPuertoRico.com and budget lodging aggregators like Hostelworld or Booking.com.

Bonus Tips for Finding Cheap Roundtrip Flights:

To make the most of your budget and keep your roundtrip cost under $650, here are a few proven strategies:

1. Use Flight Deal Websites:

Subscribe to alerts from platforms like Scott’s Cheap Flights, Google Flights, or Skyscanner for real-time low fare notifications.

2. Fly Midweek:

Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to have cheaper fares compared to weekends. Flexibility with travel dates often leads to big savings.

3. Book Early — or Last Minute:

For May travel, booking in early spring can score you the best deals. However, sometimes airlines drop last-minute fares to fill planes — keep an eye out.

4. Avoid Major Holidays:

Avoid traveling over Memorial Day weekend (late May), as prices tend to spike. The first three weeks of May are typically cheaper.

Final Thoughts

Traveling in May is a smart way to beat the crowds and enjoy great weather around the world. And the best part? You don’t have to drain your savings to make it happen. With careful planning and flexibility, you can fly roundtrip for under $650 to exciting destinations like Mexico City, Lisbon, or San Juan.

Whether you’re looking for beaches, history, or food adventures, these cities prove that budget travel doesn’t mean boring travel.

So pack your bags — your next adventure awaits.

Also Read – These 3 US Cities Are Perfect for Solo Female Travelers