Tips and Tricks for Saving Money on Your Next Adventure

How can you afford to travel so much? Boy, do we get this question often! But we’re here to let you in on all our travel secrets starting with budgeting.

When you plan smartly and use money-saving tricks, traveling the world does not have to drain your bank account. Exploring new destinations should be fun and exciting, without having the stress of figuring out how to afford everything. That’s why we put together an ultimate guide to budget travel. We’ll look at strategies and tips on saving money on flights, accommodations, food, and even activities. 

Flights

Booking Time 

Be flexible when you’re traveling. Traveling in off-peak seasons or even mid-week can save you a significant amount of money. If you’re able to book your flight months in advance you can often secure a much lower rate.

We have a whole blog post on tips for budget-friendly air travel.

Compare Airfare

Start by researching flights on websites like Skyscanner and Google Flights to compare airfare across multiple airlines. Sign up for alerts for cheap fare and follow airlines on social media to stay informed about special deals.

Consider Budget Airlines

Low-cost carriers offer significantly reduced flights because of minimal service. Airlines like Southwest, Norse Atlantic Airways, and Ryanair offer flights at a lower cost, but may have additional fees for baggage and other services. 

Accommodations

Stay in Budget Hotels or Hostels

Budget Hotels offer affordable stay without many extra amenities. Many solo travelers may consider utilizing hostels, dormitory-style rooms which cost a fraction of the price of a hotel. 

Depending on where we are going and how long we’ll be staying we will often use sites or apps like Booking.com for cheap last minute hotel deals.

Alternative Housing

Airbnb, Vrbo, and Sonder allow for single room rentals or entire houses or apartments which can be cheaper than a hotel. Depending on how many people in your travel group alternative options can definitely lower the cost of your accommodations.

Don’t be afraid to couchsurf! We know that probably sounds crazy, but we’ve made plenty of friends over our years traveling and it’s a great way to stay in touch. Reach out to those friends you made or a distant relative, college friend, or whoever and don’t be afraid to ask if you can stay a few nights.

Food

Cook on Your Own

If you’re staying in an apartment or house, or even a tiny room with a kitchenette, drop by the local grocery store and buy a few things to cook on your own. This is still a really great way to checkout local markets and get fresh foods that are unique to the area you’re visiting. 

Eat Like a Local

We have all been guilty of this we’re sure, but don’t fall for tourist traps or Instagram promotions. Ask the locals for recommendations or use apps like Yelp to read reviews. By eating at local authentic restaurants you’ll often find cheaper meals.

Take Advantage of Free Food

If your accommodation offers free breakfast take them up on it! Any little bit where you can save will go a long way. 

Activities

Tours and Attractions 

Free walking tours, given by knowledgeable guides are a great way to explore. (Don’t forget to tip your guides for a job well done!) 

Look for museums and parks that offer free entry or discounted rates. Discounts are often offered for students, young children, or seniors.

Get Active

Explore nature on foot or bike. Outdoor activities are usually free or low-cost and allow you to soak up the natural landscape. 

Transportation

Public Transportation 

Trains, metros, and buses are usually cheaper than renting a car or taking a taxi. Sometimes you can find a day pass or multi-day passes that save you more. Check in at the local stations to learn more.

Ride-Share

If you’re splitting rides with another rider, Uber and Lyft can be cheaper than a taxi.

Walk

Our number one method of transportation and the best way to explore is by walking. And bonus – it’s free!

General Tips

Plan and Budget

Research what you want to do and put together an itinerary. This will help you determine how much you will need and allow you to put together a budget that you can stick to.

Use Credit Card Points and Airline Miles

Airlines have some really great rewards programs that are usually free to sign up for. You can accumulate points and miles through rewards credit cards and use the points towards flights, hotels, or other travel expenses. 

Avoid Currency Exchange Fees

Double check that your credit or debit card doesn’t have foreign transaction fees. Also, withdraw cash from local ATMs. This will give you a better exchange rate that you would get at an airport kiosk.

Budgeting for a trip is about making smart choices, being flexible and planning ahead. It might be a game of trial and error at first, but by taking advantage of deals and considering alternative options we promise you can travel the world without spending your life savings. 

Happy Cheap Travels!