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How to Travel on a Budget for Beginners

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Wondering how to travel on a budget? While it may seem like traveling is exclusive to those with cash to spare, you don’t have to overspend in order to get out of town. There are plenty of ways to travel on a budget — including using reward points or miles and traveling during ideal times— that can end up saving you a lot of money. Here's travel guide for beginners on a budget.

Start planning early

If this is your first big trip, odds are you’ve already started planning. That’s good — the sooner you start, the more time you have to save money . Travel prices rise and fall with demand, and the cycle fluctuates as your travel dates get closer.

Beginning your planning early gives you the best chance of finding discounted hotel rooms, cheaper flights and other less-expensive activities. Although you won’t find the cheapest prices far out in advance (as we mentioned, it’s a cycle) keeping an eye on rates will allow you to jump on them and book when they drop.

» Learn more: How to account for inflation in your travel budget

Book at the right time

This bears repeating. Why? Because when you book and when you travel can make a huge difference in the price of your vacation. This applies to flights and hotels.

Confused about when the "right time" to book will be? There are multiple free tools available online to help you.

One of the easiest to use is the price tracking tool available via Google Flights. This service lets you know how the fare you’re looking at purchasing compares with past pricing. It also lets you know if rates are high or low compared with average costs.

If the flight you’re considering does appear to be expensive, Google Flights also features a price tracker alert system that will email you when fares drop. You can toggle this feature on within the search bar.

According to Expedia, the best day of the week to buy your airline ticket is on Sunday.

Skip overpriced tours

There’s nothing like getting out into a new city to explore. But how much of that exploring can you do on your own? With the information available online, it’s simple and easy to conduct your own tour for free rather than paying for a guide.

If this doesn’t sound appealing to you, consider instead one of the many free tours that many major cities offer. These walking tours will give you tons of information about the area completely free of charge, though gratuities are welcomed.

Otherwise, apps such as Spotted By Locals , Tripadvisor and Rick Steves offer comprehensive information for many large cities. Often this is free, but sometimes you’ll need to pay a nominal fee.

Use reward points

One of our favorite ways to save money includes redeeming reward points for travel. Some of your biggest expenses, such as hotels and flights, can be wiped away by using reward points during your trip.

This type of travel takes planning; you’ll need to accrue enough points to make a travel redemption. Much of the time, this is accomplished through welcome bonuses earned when you open a travel credit card .

For example, a round-trip flight from Los Angeles to Paris costs $1,255 at the beginning of November 2022.

This same flight can be booked using 45,000 American Airlines miles .

While 45,000 miles may seem like a lot, you can earn this amount of miles with ease. For example, you can earn more than enough miles needed for this flight with the AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® welcome bonus: Earn 50,000 AAdvantage® bonus miles after making your first purchase and paying the $99 annual fee in full, both within the first 90 days. The first purchase could be a stick of gum or a cup of coffee — it doesn’t matter.

Many co-branded airline credit cards also offer perks like free checked bags and priority boarding, saving you time and money.

The same can be said of hotel credit cards . Most major hotel chains have co-branded credit cards, including Hilton , Marriott , IHG , Hyatt , Choice and Wyndham . These credit cards — and their sign-up bonuses — can go a long way toward cutting costs on your vacation.

Even better, many of these credit cards offer complimentary elite status . Elite status can grant you perks such as free breakfast, room upgrades, free WiFi and late checkout.

It’s a good idea to consider booking hotel rooms using points, especially for budget family travel. Sometimes hotels charge more for additional people in your room, but these costs won’t translate to reward redemptions. You’ll generally pay the same standard price as long as you can all safely occupy the room.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Travel in the off-season

Along with using reward points, taking your trip during the offseason is another excellent way to save money. Each destination has a peak period of demand during which prices will be inflated.

This will include flights, hotels, tours and even dining, making traveling on a budget difficult. In Europe, the high season is in the summer, when most people come to visit.

During this time, flights will be at their most expensive. Remember the above example featuring that flight to Paris for $1,255? A similar flight during peak season will cost $2,070 round trip.

As you can see, even if you’re paying cash for your flights you’ll be saving over $800 by taking your trip when demand is lower.

» Learn more: Why "shoulder season" is the best time to travel

If you want to travel on a budget

Vacations don’t have to be expensive. Whether you’re a vacation veteran or a travel newbie, it’s easy to save on trips by starting planning early and keeping an eye on prices.

More importantly, taking advantage of reward points can significantly cut down on flight and hotel costs. Otherwise, traveling during the offseason can help drop expenses and allow you to travel on a budget.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

22 Budget Travel Tips: Wise Advice on How to Travel Cheap

Seeing the world doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, if you stick to our time-tested budget travel tips, you can take longer trips while minimizing damage to your savings account.

From using VPNs to find the cheapest flights to seeking out the lowest ATM fees, there’s a lot you can do to bring your travel costs down to a minimum. Best of all, you can do all this without compromising on the quality of your trip.

It’s tempting to throw caution to the wind now and again, but my advice is to look at a budget vacation as an investment in your future. The smarter you spend, the more places you’ll get to visit down the line. Isn’t that what we’re all after here?

So, if you’re looking for advice on how to travel cheaply, you’ve come to the right place. We’re all about squeezing value out of the tightest of budgets, and now it’s time for you to learn exactly how to do so.

Budget Travel Tips

• Research Affordable Destinations

Travel in the Non-Peak Seasons

Travel closer to home, house sit in exchange for free accommodation.

• Travel With a Partner or Friend

Book Your Plane Tickets Far in Advance

Use a vpn when searching for flights, consider staying in hostels, stay in accommodations that offer free meals, get a travel credit card & book with rewards points.

• Pack Camping Gear
• Perfect the Art of One-Bag Travel

Consider Van Life

Pay in local currency on credit card transactions.

• Withdrawal Local Currency for Trusted ATMs

Use Public Transportation Instead of Taxis & Ubers

Walk as often as possible, focus on free activities, go on a free walking tour, indulge in street food & other cheap eats, consult with locals for budget-friendly recommendations.

• Take Advantage of Grocery Stores and Local Markets
• Final Thoughts: Budget Travel Tips

Preparing for Your Trip

Failing to prepare is preparing to fail (or so I’ve heard). Before packing your bags and setting out, you can save a small fortune by following a few logical pieces of advice. Carefully planning and savvy trip-booking will save you heaps of money in the long run.

Research Affordable Destinations that Fit Your Budget

While this might seem like a no-brainer, it’s arguably the number one rule for planning an affordable vacation. You need to set reasonable expectations for a budget trip, which might mean going off the beaten path and trying something different.

Destinations like Paris and Bora Bora will always be in vogue, and by all means, cross them off your bucket list if you have the money. That said, visiting budget-friendly destinations like Mexico, Portugal , Eastern Europe, or Southeast Asia can be equally rewarding.

Traveling to a popular hub during peak tourist season is a big part of the appeal, but it is also the most expensive time to visit. Visiting during an unconventional season is a great way to see all the sights while saving significant money.

Not to mention, If you’re the type of person who prefers a little peace and quiet, vacationing out of season is a great way to avoid noisy flocks of tourists. Many destinations shine their brightest without the background noise, which could be true for yours too.

Everyone wants to see the world outside of their little bubble, but that might not be possible without a proper budget. The good news is that you can cut down on expenses and discover some hidden gems if you stay closer to home. Remember, traveling farther away doesn’t always mean having a better time.

Traveling closer to home will inevitably be more streamlined if you have a car or camper van of your own. As we discuss later on, a reliable vehicle is more than just a means of transport when you’re out on a road trip, which is excellent news for you and your precious budget.

Chances are, the price of lodging makes up the bulk of your travel expenditures, but there are ways to put a roof over your head without spending a penny. By offering to house-sit for a local and watch their pets, you can score a bed, a warm meal, and maybe even some extra cash.

If this reminds you too much of all the housework waiting back home, there are plenty of alternatives. Workaway offers lodging in exchange for a wider variety of services, while Couchsurfing lets you find strangers who’ll let you crash with no strings attached.

I’m all for being spontaneous and adventurous, but if you’re traveling by plane, waiting until the last minute to book tickets is usually a bad idea. Plane prices can vary wildly from day to day, and they almost always peak a few days before takeoff.

Booking a few weeks or even months in advance can save you hundreds of dollars in the long run. The downside is having to commit to a game plan far in advance, but that’s part and parcel of traveling on a tight budget.

If you use VPNs to watch Netflix shows that aren’t available in your region, you’re not alone. But did you know that you can use the same trick to land an even better deal on your flights? Needless to say, the less money you spend on tickets, the more cash you’re left with at the end of the day.

Switching your location to another country (like Mexico, Malaysia, or Myanmar) will often result in a reduced ticket price. The process is relatively straightforward , and it only takes a few extra minutes of prep work for potentially significant savings. Why not give it a try?

Travel With a Friend or Partner to Split Expenses

When traveling, countless little expenses are constantly nibbling away at your bottom line. Heading out with your friend or partner can help stop the bleeding since you can split hotel rooms, gas money, grocery bills, and other essential costs.

Besides, it can get a little lonesome out there without anybody to share your experiences with. There’s nothing wrong with a bit of me-time if that’s what you’re after, but the longer your trip, the more you might wish you had somebody to share it with.

While a swanky hotel room is a welcome luxury for any traveler, it’s far from essential if you want to save money. If you don’t mind sharing a room with a handful of strangers, staying in a dorm room or a hostel is a great option to stretch your budget further.

There are a few important strategies to master if you opt for a hostel over a hotel . Still, if you prepare accordingly, hostel life should be a more rewarding and money-saving experience. Whatever you do, always bring a pair of quality earplugs for the inevitable snorers or sleeptalkers.

Eating out on the town is a great way to get a feel for how the locals live, but it can also get a bit pricey. An excellent way to get around that reality is to find accommodation that includes at least one free meal daily to keep things cheaper.

You can find these kinds of deals all over the world, and if you’re staying for an extended period, the savings really start to add up. For example, this hostel in Krakow lets you enjoy a whopping two meals a day for free while offering a super-comfortable bed to lay your head down.

Airline companies and hotels often partner with a specific credit card provider to offer special deals for users. If you play your credit card game right and do some research, you could snag a nifty welcome bonus and accumulate points that can lead to free or heavily-discounted travel.

One of the best ways to track these offers is through Nerdwallet’s best travel credit cards roundup . This post has come in handy for thousands of travelers, and it’s probably the best way to keep track of which cards are best for your travel style.

Pack Camping Gear & Sleep Under the Stars

We’ve reviewed several cheap lodging options, but if you enjoy the outdoors, you might not need to pay anything at all. Camping is a great way to connect with nature without investing much beyond a simple tent and inflatable mattress.

This might not always be an option since you’ll need good weather and a nice campsite to set up shop. That said, if the name of the game is saving money, it doesn’t get much more affordable than camping out for free in the cozy confines of your tent.

Perfect the Art of One Bag Travel & Avoid Baggage Fees

There are plenty of reasons to consider traveling light – mainly the privilege of mobility. Beyond that, though, it also helps on the spending front – chances are you need far fewer supplies for the average trip than you might think.

Baggage fees have been known to take large bites out of travel budgets, but with a bit of personal item carry-on magic, you can save significant money that would be better spent elsewhere. Just be sure you buy a properly-sized bag that’ll fit underneath the seat in front of you.

Buying a camper van is a significant investment, but it will pay off in the long run if you travel a lot and even make it your primary residence. Why overspend on “affordable” NYC hotels when you have something like the Brooklyn Van Alley to fall back on?

If you have zero experience with mobile homes, there will be a bit of a learning curve . Besides the vehicle, you’ll also need to set some money aside for essential supplies . Still, if you can survive that initial investment, a camper van might just pay for itself in due time.

After You Arrive at Your Destination

Planning the trip is just the beginning – there’s arguably even more clever maneuvering once you reach your destination. Here’s what you need to keep in mind after you’ve arrived:

Poor currency conversion rates might not seem like the biggest deal, but they add up over time. A few cocktails and into your trip, you may fall into the bad habit of pressing the button to be charged in your home currency on the credit card reader rather than the local one. Hate to break it to you, but the conversion rate is never in your favor.

To avoid the conversion fees imposed by most credit cards, paying in the local currency is always a good idea. These fees apply whether you’re at a restaurant or a retail store, so be mindful before reaching for your wallet.

Use Well-Reviewed Money Exchange Businesses & Withdrawal Currency from Trusted ATMs

When you arrive, you might feel too tired to stress over where you withdraw local currency, but you mustn’t jump the gun. Not all exchange desks will give you the best deal, so always check Google reviews before blindly handing your money to the first money changer you see.

The same goes for ATMs, too – depending on the bank or the machine itself, you may get charged an unreasonable fee, even if you withdraw the local currency. Dynamic Currency Conversion isn’t as helpful as it sounds, so use your best judgment.

Taxis and Ubers can be very convenient in a time crunch but are also quite expensive. Often, a taxi driver will pick you up knowing that you’re a tourist (even if you speak the local language) and charge you a higher price than what’s fair.

The safer bet is usually to rely on public transportation whenever possible. On top of it being cheaper (and often free), it’s easy to keep track of where buses, trains, and trams take you if you use Google Maps to plan your route.

Even if you aren’t on a budget, walking is almost always preferable to driving when visiting a new location. Besides being free, it’s also great for your health and lets you see more of what the region has to offer at your own pace.

Also, a vacation is the perfect time to pick up the habit of walking or hiking back home. The physical, psychological, and emotional benefits of walking large distances daily can be life-changing, so lace up your walking shoes and give it a shot.

The only thing better than “cheap” is “free,” and in the digital era, all it takes to find a free activity is to look it up online. From annual events at parks to free museum days and other meetups , there are almost always free activities to discover in major cities.

Remember, though – just because something is free of charge, it doesn’t mean you should go out empty-handed. Your activity of choice may feature some “hidden” fees now and again, or it could lead you to a pricey detour down the line.

Knowing nothing about your destination is a surefire way to spend more money than you need to. Thankfully, most major tourist hubs offer walking tours that help you immerse yourself in the local culture and discover some fantastic spots.

You’re likely to meet other like-minded budget travelers on a walking tour, so you might even leave with an extra friend or street food buddy. Just be sure to tip your guide for their trouble – think of all the money they helped you save by showing you around.

One thing to remember about tourist traps is that they often know they can overcharge curious travelers from faraway lands. It’s okay to indulge in an expensive meal in the heart of town, but if you’re looking to save money, try out some delicious street food for a fraction of the price.

In some ways, street vendors can give you a better idea of the ins and outs of the local cuisine. On that note, don’t be afraid to head out to the outskirts, either – this is usually where you’ll find some more affordable eateries unknown to most tourists.

If anyone knows the restaurants and attractions that offer the best value for money, it’s the locals. Relying on Google reviews is all well and good, but an insider’s advice can be way more helpful and rewarding.

Depending on where you go, it’s not uncommon for a friendly local to invite you into their home for an authentic, home-cooked meal. Putting the money aspect aside, this is one of the most wholesome vacation experiences you can hope to find. Chat up a friendly local and see where the conversation might lead you.

Take Advantage of Grocery Stores & Local Markets

If push comes to shove, remember that going to a restaurant is almost always more expensive than whipping up the same meal yourself. Even if you don’t have a kitchen to work with, you can always grab some affordable food from the grocery store and enjoy a simple picnic.

This is also a great way to connect with the local culture. There’s no better way to get a feel for how the natives eat than by walking the same grocery store aisles they do. You might even get hooked on some new flavors you never knew existed.

Budget Travel Keeps You on the Road Longer

And that concludes our list of the best budget travel tips to keep in mind before planning your next trip. We’ve laid out our best advice based on many years of affordable travel, and we hope it’ll serve you well on your adventures.

The devil is in the details regarding saving money, so if you take advantage of a handful of clever travel hacks, you can rest assured that you’ll maximize your budget. Whenever I check my bank statements after a long trip, I’m always amazed at how far a few good decisions were able to stretch my money.

There’s a dollar to be saved around every corner, and if you’ve been around as many corners as we have, you know how important that can be. Learning to appreciate the simple pleasures of travel really goes a long way.

The bottom line is this: while the best things in life might not be free exactly, they can cost less than you might think. The sooner you learn how to travel cheaply, the more the world will open itself up to you.

Last Updated on May 9, 2024

Noel Krasomil

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25 top tips for travelling on a budget

Updated On 28th February, 2024

If you’re looking for tips for travelling on a budget, top tips for budget travel or how to save money when you’re travelling, then you’re in the right place. I  love  a good bargain, especially when it comes to saving money when travelling!

Travelling is such a wonderful opportunity, and being able to travel on a budget makes it more accessible to people. Also, if you spend less on one adventure, you have money to spend on another. Budget travel doesn’t have to be any less fun either. There are  cheap places to travel to all over the world , including plenty of  places to travel on a budget in Europe . There are lots of ways to save money when you’re travelling, from planning your travel budget carefully before you leave, considering backpacking and car-sharing, through to the choices you make (e.g. food) when you are on your trip.

And even if you’re travelling somewhere that is considered to be expensive, there are top tips for travelling on a budget. From  things to do in Vienna on a budget  to  free things to do in London , as well as  cheap things to do in Copenhagen , there are definitely plenty of ways to go  backpacking in Europe on a budget.  There are even  ways to save money when travelling in Australia , and  budget travel tips for New Zealand !

In this post I’ve shared all my top tips for travelling on a budget. From what you need to do before you go, to advice for when you’re already abroad, this post has it all: travel tips, money saving tips, budget travel tips, free things to do, cheap places to visit and more!

Budget travel blog posts you might like…

• 30 places to travel on a budget
• The cheapest places to visit in Europe
• Top tips for travelling in Europe
• How to save money in Australia
• How to save money in New Zealand
• Free things to do in London
• Budget-friendly things to do in Copenhagen
• Cheap things to do in Vienna

CHECK OUT BUDGET TRAVEL ADVENTURES ON MY BLOG HERE

Here are my 25 top tips for travelling on a budget…

1. Choose your destination carefully.

Some places are naturally more expensive or cheaper than where you call home. My first tip for travelling on a budget is to research  places that are good for travelling on a budget.  Maybe it’s somewhere that’s cheap and easy to get to, somewhere where the currency gets you good value because of the exchange rate, or somewhere that has a lower cost of living than home!

If you’re looking for cheap destinations,  here are 30 places to travel on a budget.

2. Avoid tourist traps.

Big cities and tourist hotspots are often a lot more expensive than straying off the beaten track! Try and choose less well-known destinations, if you can.  Check out  these hidden gems in Europe you must visit.

Even within your destination, avoid restaurants on the main strip and try something down a sidewalk. The food will probably be better as well as cheaper!

EXPLORE BALI ON MY BLOG HERE

3. Get travel insurance.

Perhaps the most important tip for travelling on a budget! Sure, it’s initially an extra expense, but you’ll thank yourself for sorting it out if your trip gets cancelled, or God forbid you get ill abroad.  Click here for the travel insurance I use.

Looking to travel in Europe? Here are  21 cheap places to visit in Europe!

4. Travel off-season.

Sure, you might not be able to guarantee the weather, but your chosen destination will be a lot less busy and crowded. Not only will you save a lot of money, but you’ll have it all to yourself!

Check out the best time to visit Bali here.

EXPLORE PORTUGAL ON MY BLOG HERE

5. Book in advance.

Last minute deals can be a godsend if you’re travelling on a budget , but it’s often cheaper (and less stressful!) to book transport, accommodation and activities well in advance.

Check out this blog post to see what travel apps you should download on your phone before your trip.

6. Or, in less touristy destinations, be spontaneous.

Accommodation isn’t always advertised online and you may save money when travelling by booking directly with the owner, especially for places in small towns or in homestays. It really depends on where you’re going!

EXPLORE GREECE ON MY BLOG HERE

7. Use  Skyscanner  to find the cheapest flight deals.

Skyscanner.net  is the easiest way to find cheap flights between countries! Simply put in your home airport/country and your destination, and you can see what is available on specific dates, or across a whole month if you’re able to be flexible.

Top tip:  You can save even more money by booking flights in incognito mode, using a VPN, or after deleting your cookies.

8. Fly mid-week.

Flights are more expensive at weekends, because more people are free to travel. Try and fly between Tuesday-Thursday, if you can.

EXPLORE ALBANIA ON MY BLOG HERE

9. Pack well.

Firstly, pack light. You won’t wear half the clothes you want to take, and it’ll only cost you more in baggage to bring more than you need.

However, one of the most important tips for travelling on a budget is that it’s important to check that you take everything you need, not forgetting anything! If you forget something, it could cost a lot of money to buy that essential missing item when you’re abroad.

EXPLORE PACKING TIPS ON MY BLOG HERE

10. Be prepared to share.

You’ll save a lot of money on accommodation when travelling if you’re willing to stay in a dorm in a hostel with a shared bathroom.  See  why I love hostels  here , and  how to choose your hostel  here.

SEE ALL MY YOUTUBE TRAVEL VIDEOS HERE

If you’ve never stayed in a hostel before,  check out my top tips for staying in a hostel and all my hostel packing essentials here.

11. Couchsurfing

Meet locals and stay with them all over the world! Couchsurfing is ideal if you are travelling on a budget, because you can stay at people’s houses for free. Just make sure you stay safe, choosing people with consistently good reviews.  Check out couchsurfing here.

EXPLORE THAILAND ON MY BLOG HERE

12. Travel overnight.

If you have a long journey to complete as part of you trip, one way to save money is to travel overnight. You have to pay to get from A to B no matter what time of day you travel, but travelling overnight saves you the cost of accommodation for that night. Bonus: you don’t ‘waste time’ travelling during the day, so you have more time to explore!

Read this post for all my top tips and advice on planning and researching your next adventure.

13. Look into carpooling services, such as Bla Bla Car.

Bla Bla Car  and other similar services can save you a lot of money if you’re travelling on a budget. People who have cars and are doing the journey anyway say if they have any spaces, and then you can pay for that space. It’s often cheaper than public transport. Similarly, if you’re doing a road trip and you have a space in the car, then you can get a bit of money back towards the petrol.

EXPLORE POLAND HERE

14. Read others’ backpacking experiences.

Google ‘a backpacker’s guide to …’ when you’re planning. This way you’ll be able to see immediately what a low-cost holiday looks like in your destination, and you should be able to get an idea about costs, accommodation and activities.

See our backpacker’s guide to travelling in Europe on a budget here.

SEE ALL MY BACKPACKING GUIDES HERE

16. Search for free things to do in your chosen destination.

A great top tip for travelling on a budget is to look for free things to do wherever you’re heading. It could be that certain museums are free on certain days or that there are local events on. Don’t forget the classic ‘free walking tour’, a great way of seeing the city you are visiting. Just remember that it’s customary to tip at the end.

• Free things to do in Vienna
• Free things to do in Copenhagen

Check out my 22 top tips for travelling in Europe in this blog post.

15. Get a local SIM.

Data roaming or paying for WiFi abroad can be extortionate. One way to save money when you’re travelling is to get a local SIM card with locally priced data packages. You’ll want the data for navigating your way around and keeping in touch with home!  This is something I’ve done in both  the Philippines  and  Albania , and it was really easy to sort! 

EXPLORE THE PHILIPPINES ON MY BLOG HERE

17. DIY excursions.

You can often save a lot of money by skipping out on a planned tour and working it out for yourself! Use public transport to get there, take a picnic, and buy your own entry ticket (if needed).

A great example of this is my self-guided trip to the Blue Mountains in Australia. A group tour will cost at least 100 AUD per person, but my return train ticket was just 12 AUD! The only other expense was the packed lunch I took with me, and a coffee I bought en route.  Check out my self-guided trip to the Blue Mountains here.

EXPLORE AUSTRALIA ON MY BLOG HERE

18. Don’t eat out all the time.

Another tip for travelling on a budget is to shop at the supermarket and cook for yourself. Factor trying some local delicacies into your budget (if you can), but beyond that, prepare your own food. Most hostels have kitchen facilities that are available for everyone to use. There might even be a shelf with leftover food from backpackers that have moved on!

19. Be aware of ATM charges.

ATMs can charge a lot of money to withdraw and exchange your money. However, it is often the case that it’s cheaper to take money out on your travels than it is to get it exchanged before you go. To avoid charges, take as much money as you can afford to lose out at once. The more you take out, the less often you’ll pay the charge, but there’s more to lose/have stolen! If you have lots of cash, put it in different parts of your bag/pockets, and leave some in a locked, secure space at your accommodation.

Top tip:  If you prefer to be cashless, cards such as  Monzo  and  Revolut  allow you to keep and spend in multiple currencies with one card, and with few to no fees!

20. Try and haggle.

Prices are often marked up for tourists, so put your negotiating skills to good use and see if you can get a discount! This is more likely if you are in a group, either travelling together or friends made along the way, and all of you book onto e.g. the same excursion.

Check out this post about how to make friends when travelling solo.

EXPLORE VIETNAM ON MY BLOG HERE

21. Get recommendations from the locals.

The locals definitely don’t want to pay tourist prices for food, drink and activities. Speak to someone from the area (perhaps someone at the hostel reception) and find out their favourite hotspots. I can guarantee you won’t be disappointed!

Check out  this post for why it’s better to travel with a local.

EXPLORE ITALY ON MY BLOG HERE

22. Bring your own water bottle and coffee cup.

I never travel without my reusables now! Taking your own water bottle means you can fill up for free from fountains, cafes or mountain springs. Having your own coffee cup often gets you a discount!

Not only does having a reusable water bottle or coffee cup save you money, but it helps the environment!  Here are more ways you can travel sustainably.

23. Walk everywhere.

Walking is the cheapest form of transport and by far the best way to discover a new area. Renting a bike is often cheap if you need to go a little bit further.  Both cycling and walking are great ways to keep fit when you’re on your travels; see some more here.

If you have to take public transport, buses are typically the cheapest. Avoid taxis and Ubers like the plague if you are travelling on a budget; they are by far the most expensive form of transport. With a bit of planning, there’s almost always a much cheaper bus or train alternative.

EXPLORE SPAIN ON MY BLOG HERE

24. Work as you travel.

An obvious way to save money while you’re travelling is to earn money doing it! Many hostels offer free or reduced rate accommodation if you put in a few shifts, and there’s also the option of bartending, teaching abroad, or getting a working holiday visa.

Find out  how to get a  New Zealand working holiday visa  in this guest post !

Find out about getting an  Australian working holiday visa  in this video…

25. Decide on your budget, and stick to it.

There are very few places that can’t be travelled on a low budget. There are free things to do in every destination, so you just need to manage your expectations of how many expensive activities you can do there or how often you can eat out at restaurants, for example. Once you’ve planned your budget, try not to overspend; it’ll only cause you more stress later on your trip or when you get home.

EXPLORE MONEY SAVING TRAVEL TIPS ON MY BLOG HERE

Have you got any more tips for travelling on a budget?

What are your budget travel top tips? I’d love to know!

Love as always and happy adventuring…

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How to Travel on a Budget – The 30 Best Cheap Travel Tips

Home | Travel | How to Travel on a Budget – The 30 Best Cheap Travel Tips

When traveling abroad, get a policy from one of the  best travel insurance companies . Y ou can get a  5% discount   on Heymondo , the only insurance that pays medical bills upfront for you, HERE!

Are you looking for cheap ways to travel ? Have you been dreaming of a cheap trip around the world for ages? Planning a cheap vacation might seem overwhelming because it can be difficult to know exactly where to start and where to find the best discounts for travel . Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of the best tips and tricks to help you save on your next trip.

In this guide to planning a cheap trip, we’ll be talking about how to save on all the different parts of your trip: flights, accommodation, transport, and more. That way, the next time you’re planning a trip, you can figure out exactly where you’re spending the most money and then use our tips to help you save in that area; that’s the best way to get the cheap trip you’ve always wanted.

How to travel on a budget

We’ve picked up plenty of tricks for cheap travel over the years, so we’ve written several specific guides to help you save on trips:

HOW TO FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

HOW TO GET CHEAP HOTELS

HOW TO GET CHEAP RENTAL CARS

CHEAP TRAVEL INSURANCE

However, if you don’t know where to start, we have you covered! This ultimate guide sums up the 30 most important travel for cheap tips grouped in the following topics:

• Planning phase
• Accommodation
• Tours and Activities

Are you ready to plan the cheapest trip of your life ? Then let’s get started !

Learn the 3 key tips for planning a cheap trip

Before you look at any destinations or book hotels or flights, there are three key things that you absolutely need to do if you want to know how to travel on a budget . Not all cheap travel tips are complicated. In fact, these ones are very simple, but you need to make sure that you use them from the moment you start planning or even thinking about your cheap trip. Using these tips from the beginning can really make a difference in the price of your trip.

1. Set a realistic budget and track all your expenses to travel cheap

The first and most important thing you need to do is to calculate your travel budget. After all, how can you travel on a budget if you don’t even know what your budget is?

Start off by designing a budget for your trip. Calculate the total amount of money you’re willing to spend on the trip, and then decide which things are worth spending that money on. It’s your trip, so you can plan it any way you want to. Prioritize the things you want to see and do, so you don’t spend much or any money on things that aren’t as important to you.

Then, get the big costs, like flights and accommodation, out of the way, and plan a realistic idea of what you’d spend per day on things like food, tours, and transport. Write down these numbers and keep them in mind. If you don’t know when or where you’re traveling yet, don’t worry. Just set a maximum amount you’re willing to spend on your trip, and then, after you choose your destination, you can get into specifics.

This is one of the best ways to travel for cheap because you’re going to need to track your travel expenses anyway, even if you’re still just planning. There are actually many useful ways to track your travel expenses. I love the Travel Spend app because you can add expenses very quickly, even when you’re on the go; it works offline; and foreign currencies are automatically converted into your home currency. Plus, it helps you stick to your budget, and you can even split travel expenses with your travel buddies.

2. Research prices beforehand – The best way to travel for cheap

If you really want to travel inexpensively , make sure you research prices before you purchase anything. This will help you avoid scams and paying any more than you actually need to.

You might get gouged on anything from street food and cabs to hotels and shopping, even with the currency exchange, so check travel for cheap blogs to figure out how much things cost in other countries. If you are traveling to a country where they use a different currency, write down the most common exchanges so that you know them off the top of your head (i.e., how much 1, 10, 20, 50, 100, 150, 200 USD is in the local currency). That way, you’ll always have a rough idea of how much things cost abroad.

3. Get comfortable with discomfort

Traveling abroad for cheap doesn’t often equate to traveling in comfort or style. If you really want to travel cheaply, you’re going to have to get comfortable with being uncomfortable because you’ll be doing things like going on low-cost flights, sharing bathrooms in hotels, and traveling by bus.

Get used to taking super early or late flights and sitting in smaller seats. What you save in money may be “spent” on discomfort, so try to mentally prepare yourself ahead of time!

Be flexible to travel on a budget

Now that you’ve made your budget, it’s important to stick to it. One way you can do that is by being flexible with the dates and destination of your trip whenever you possibly can. Opening your mind up to new forms of accommodation, transportation, and even food can also be very helpful when you’re planning a cheap trip, but if you want to save as much money as possible, focus on being flexible with dates and destinations.

4. Find the cheapest destinations to travel to

If you have a really small budget but you still want to travel the world, try being flexible with your destination.

Websites such as Kiwi or Skyscanner can help you look for cheap flights. Just set “everywhere” as your destination, and the website will show you the cheapest destinations you can travel to from your nearest airport.

However, don’t just look for the destination with the cheapest flights. Traveling involves a lot of other expenses besides flights (food, hotels, tourist attractions, etc.), so you’ll also want to check how much each destination will cost in terms of accommodation, meals, tours, etc. A flight to Southeast Asia or South America might be more expensive than a flight to a neighboring country, but keep the cost per day of visiting that country in mind, too.

When you’re doing your cheap trip planning , remember that the most popular places for tourists also tend to be the most expensive. Try looking for cheaper alternatives that aren’t as popular yet so they’re still cheap.

5. Book your trip at the cheapest time to travel

One of the best ways to travel for cheap is to be flexible with the dates of your trip so you can travel at off-peak times of the year. This flexibility is key for getting cheap travel, since travel will always be more expensive during peak tourist season. Of course, you can’t always be flexible with travel dates, but if you can, try to allow flexible dates in websites such as Kiwi or Skyscanner to find out if there are any specific date when the flights are usually cheaper.

Off-peak times of year don’t just mean the off-season. Try to also avoid traveling on weekends, holidays, and any other dates when lots of people will be traveling. You may even want to take very early morning flights, as these flights will usually be the cheapest. We’ll get into some more specific tips for getting cheap flights below .

Find a great flight deal to travel the world cheaply

Flights are generally one of the biggest expenses for a trip, but it is totally possible to find cheap flights for your next cheap trip around the world . I recommend doing a lot of research on flights and not simply buying the first one that you see. If you want to find great flight deals, be sure to check out our article on how to find cheap flights and use the tips we’ve shared below.

But before you go, do you know that AirHelp can help you get compensated for flight delays and cancellations ?

6. Flight search sites are the best way to travel for cheap

One of the first things to do when you’re planning a cheap vacation is to find your flights. I always recommend using search engines rather than airlines’ official websites because search engines can do a much wider and more varied search for you, which will save you a lot of time and help you find the best deals. Prices on airlines’ official websites can often be more expensive, too.

Two great flight search engines are Kiwi or Skyscanner . Skyscanner is awesome because it shows you the cheapest days to fly during the month(s) you want to travel and even allows you to set up price alerts for price drops.

Kiwi can also help you find some great discount flights. Their best feature is their ability to create multi-airline routes, which are cheaper than booking a flight with a single airline. Not a lot of other search engines will combine different airlines’ flights to get you the cheapest route, so Kiwi is pretty unique in that respect and the website I’m using to plan cheap trips most of the time.

7. Buy your plane tickets at the right time to travel cheap

Although there can sometimes be last-minute deals on flights, my advice is not to wait until the last minute to find the best deal. It may seem tempting, but it’s much better to organize your trip ahead of time and start looking for flights a few months before you leave. The longer you have to look for deals, the more time you have to research and find the best one.

You can use the Hopper  app to help you find exactly the right time to book your tickets. The app creates a graph of flight prices and analyzes it to tell you if you should book your flight now or wait for prices to drop. If the app tells you to buy your tickets now, book your flight right away because if you wait, prices will probably go up.

8. Set airfare alerts and catch error rates to travel on a budget

Cheap travel planning gets much easier when you set alerts that tell you when flight prices drop. Websites like Skyscanner and Kayak allow you to set these kinds of alerts, so you’ll always know if a flight’s price has dropped so you can buy your airline tickets at a cheaper price. I always advise using price alerts to find the best prices for flights.

Another tip for traveling on a budget is to try to catch an error rate. An error rate is a flight price that an airline mistakenly enters that is much cheaper than normal.  Because the price is an error, it usually isn’t up for very long, since airlines will correct the mistake as soon as they notice it.  However, if you act quickly, you can snag the flight for the error rate while it’s still live and get yourself a sweet deal.

The best websites to find flight error rates are Scott’s Cheap Flights , Airfare Watchdog , Secret Flying , The Flight Deal , and Holiday Pirates .

Get inexpensive accommodation and take a cheap trip around the world

Accommodation is another of the biggest expenses for a trip, especially if you’re traveling somewhere and staying for a long time.  However, as with flights, it’s still possible to travel cheap and save on accommodation, especially if you give up some luxuries.

Although you might be very comfortable staying in a nice hotel, it’s not always necessary to do so. Are you really going to take advantage of a hot tub and gym, or will you be too busy sightseeing? If you don’t think you’ll use the amenities that a nice hotel offers, don’t bother shelling out for them. Choose an accommodation that only gives you what you need. The tips below will help you find affordable accommodation, but if you want to learn more, check out our guide on how to get cheap hotels .

9. Use the best hotel booking sites for cheap trip planning

One of the best ways to travel for cheap is to use the best websites for finding hotel deals. That way, if you want lots of amenities, you can get all the amenities you need and stay in a nice hotel while still paying a good price.

For hotels, I always recommend Booking.com , a website where you can find hotels anywhere in the world and that tends to have the best prices. Their website is very easy to use, and if you book with them enough, you can attain “Genius” status, which will allow you access to even better hotel deals.

Of course, the most affordable accommodations are always the first to get booked up, so try to book quickly.

Agoda.com and Hotels.com  are two other great websites for hotel deals. With Agoda, you can search for more than just hotels. You can also search for apartments, private villas, and more.

On Hotels.com, you get free cancellation on most rooms, and their rewards program gives you one reward night after you’ve stayed 10 nights with them.

Whichever website you use to help you find hotel deals, make sure you do your research and check prices on various websites so you can be sure you’re getting the best deal.

10. Get a $50 coupon for your first booking on Airbnb

Airbnb is a great way to save on accommodation and travel the world cheaply.  If you’ve never used it before, you can get a discount of up to $50 on your first reservation just for being a Capture The Atlas reader!

On Airbnb, you can find everything from rooms to entire houses, making it an excellent option if you’re looking for other forms of accommodation besides hotels. If you want to learn more about Airbnb and, most importantly, get your coupon code, check out our guide to Airbnb .

11. Give couchsurfing a try and travel the world for cheap

If you’re looking for alternatives to Airbnb and hotels, there are plenty of options to get accommodation and still travel inexpensively .

Trustedhousesitters.com  is a website where you can arrange to take care of someone’s pets in exchange for accommodation, which is perfect if you love animals.

You could also try Homeexchange.com , which allows you to stay in another person’s apartment or home while they stay in yours. You do have to match your travel dates in order to be able to do this, but you can also use points that you have accumulated from previously exchanging your home and travel on any date you want.

However, the cheapest way to travel is couchsurfing . Couchsurfing can be a great way to travel cheaply, but it isn’t always perfect or reliable. Some pros of couchsurfing are:

• You get free accommodation! You’ll probably be staying on someone’s spare couch or in a spare room. Sometimes, if you’re lucky, hosts will even make you a meal as well.
• You get to meet new people! People often host couchsurfers because they’re interested in meeting other people from around the world and hearing about their travels.
• You can do it through a trustworthy and organized website! Couchsurfing.com will help you find hosts in the city where you want to stay. You can view their profiles and decide which ones you’re interested in staying with.

However, there are also some cons to couchsurfing:

• You can’t always find accommodation. Once you’ve found hosts that you want to stay with, you can send them requests via the Couchsurfing website, but they have to accept your request before you can stay with them. If no one accepts your request, you have nowhere to stay! Additionally, we’ve found it difficult to use as a couple, since hosts generally don’t want two guests staying with them.
• You don’t get much privacy. If you value your privacy, couchsurfing probably isn’t for you. You will have to share a space with at least one other person, and you most likely won’t have a room to yourself.

Some people love couchsurfing, while others have had bad experiences with it. If it sounds like something you’d be interested in, it’s definitely worth trying, but if it’s something you wouldn’t feel comfortable doing, don’t push yourself.

12. Camping is a great way to save money on your trip

This is one of our favorite options for a low budget trip . It’s not just a chance for you to get in touch with nature; it’s also one of the cheapest possible options for accommodation.

If you like camping, I recommend using a tent as accommodation on your next trip. Of course, you’ll need all the necessary equipment to camp, such as a tent, sleeping bags, flashlight, and more. We have a list of all the equipment you’ll need to camp in our article on backpacking .

However, going camping does not always mean going backpacking, since there are plenty of well-equipped campsites. You can also find free campsites here .

Choose the right transport when planning a cheap vacation

Yet another important expense for a trip is local transportation. You need to be able to get around, no matter where you’re traveling. Nevertheless, it’s totally possible to save on transportation, as I will explain below.

Sometimes, however, renting a car is the only useful option. We’ve written an article on how to get cheap rental cars , which you should check out if renting a car is the best option for you, but make sure to check out our cheap travel tips below first.

13. Use public transport or walk to take a low-cost trip

Want to know how to travel on a budget? Take public transport, like buses and trains, and walk whenever you can.

As soon as you get to your destination, you’ll probably be spending a lot on transportation. Going from the airport to your hotel and getting around the city can add up quickly, so find the cheapest option you can use to get around.

Use local buses, and try to avoid taxis and private transportation (i.e., Uber) whenever possible. Try to get places the same way the locals do. Take public transport only when you’re going to a place that’s too far to walk to, and walk most of the time. Walking is the best way to get to know a city; you’ll notice all kinds of local shops, cafes, and corners that you’d never see on a bus or train.

14. Rent a bicycle and travel inexpensively

Low cost traveling doesn’t always have to mean walking everywhere. If you’d rather travel on two wheels instead of two legs, renting a bike is a fantastic option. That way, you can avoid spending money on public transport, which adds up quickly, and get around more quickly and less strenuously than walking. Plus, like walking, biking everywhere is a chance to get to know the city you’re visiting very well.

We love biking. We biked around La Graciosa in the Canary Islands, and it was an absolutely perfect experience. We’d also recommend renting a bike if you ever visit La Habana, Cuba .  And exploring Syracuse, Italy by bike.

15. Hitchhiking, the cheapest way to travel abroad

One of the cheap ways to travel that people often forget about is hitchhiking. It’s an option that’s worth mentioning, although I don’t think I’d hitchhike if I were traveling alone.

As with most things, hitchhiking has its pros and cons. Its pros include:

• You get free transportation . Hitchhiking is absolutely free, and it can be a great way to travel long distances cheaply.
• You can meet new people . Chances are that if someone picks up a hitchhiker, they’re probably looking to have a chat. You can meet all kinds of interesting people through hitchhiking.

Its cons include:

• It’s illegal in some places. If you do want to hitchhike, make sure to double check that it’s legal to do so where you are.
• It can take a long time for someone to pick you up. It might be hours before someone picks you up, but it also might be minutes; it all depends on the day, the location, the time, the weather, etc.
• You might be dropped off in the middle of nowhere. A driver might only be going so far toward your destination and have to leave you somewhere that’s quite rural or abandoned.

If you do decide to hitchhike, be sensible and careful. Here are a few tips if you decide to try it:

• Try not to hitchhike alone. It’s always safer to hitchhike with someone else.
• Wait somewhere where cars can pick you up safely.
• Use a cardboard sign with your destination on it to attract attention.
• Try to look presentable and friendly so drivers will be more inclined to pick you up.
• Always be prepared. Have some food, water, warm clothes, a charger, etc. on hand.

16. Take an overnight train for a low-budget trip

If you are going to visit different cities, overnight trains and buses are an excellent option because you can save on accommodation while you travel. Your accommodation and transport will be one and the same because you’ll be traveling at night while you’re asleep.

Overnight trains are equipped with beds, which are actually quite comfortable, so you can get a good night’s sleep while you travel. I’ve taken overnight trains before, and I’ve always had pleasant experiences. Not only you do save money on accommodation, but you also use your time efficiently, since travel and sleep happen at the same time.

17. Rent a campervan and travel cheap around the world

Of all the ways to save on transportation, renting a campervan is probably the best because you can combine the price of transportation with the price of accommodation, meaning that you only pay a single price for both. You will have the freedom to travel whenever and wherever you want, without schedules and limits.

Some countries are more RV-friendly than others, so that’s something to keep in mind when you’re choosing your destination and transportation. The US, for instance, is an RV paradise. There are many free RV campsites , so if you are planning to rent an RV in the US , check out our guide.

If you want to rent a campervan for a cheap trip , use Outdoorsy , the best website for renting campervans. Outdoorsy is a platform that connects RV owners with users who want to rent a caravan for a few days. It’s a peer-to-peer rental, so it’s basically like an Airbnb for motor homes .

Ways to sightsee on a budget

Traveling on a budget doesn’t just apply to transportation, accommodation, and flights. It can also involve sightseeing.

Tours and activities are definitely an important part of any trip. You can’t just travel to the Arctic in winter and not see the northern lights, or go to Egypt and not visit the pyramids. However, there are ways to sightsee cheaply and save money on this part of your trip.

18. Don’t visit every tourist attraction just because it’s popular

Traveling is not a competition. You don’t have to see absolutely every single thing in the city or place that you’re traveling to. In fact, you’ll probably have a calmer and more relaxing trip if you don’t try to cram too much sightseeing into every day of your trip.

Instead, focus on making the most of the places you do visit. Really experience and enjoy them. Most importantly, only choose to visit places that really excite and interest you. You’ll enjoy your trip so much more when you’re not dragging yourself to a museum you don’t care about or forcing yourself to see a monument that doesn’t interest you. Plus, you’ll save money on your trip. With monuments or buildings, you can even save money by just seeing them from the outside instead of going inside them.

If you’re really invested in taking a specific tour, such as a whale watching tour in Iceland or a canal cruise in Amsterdam, you can book a tour cheaply on Getyourguide.com .

Besides, there are always great free things to do in every city. Just do your research, learn how the locals like to have fun, and then write down the free tourist spots you want to visit. See? Low-cost traveling can be fun!

19. Take advantage of free tourist days

There are plenty of museums and monuments that offer free entry once a week or month.

One of our best and easiest travel for cheap tips is to figure out when/if the places you want to visit have free entry, so you can plan your visit for a free entry day. Yes, the place you’re visiting might be more crowded that day, but you’ll save yourself a good chunk of money (museums and monuments can be expensive!).

20. Free tours are a great resource for travelers on a budget

Want to tour cities with a knowledgeable tour guide for free? In many cities, you can find free tours through Civitatis .

I’ve done several tours through them on many of my trips, and I’ve always been delighted with the experience since it’s a very interesting way of getting to know a city for free (or for a small tip). Even with a tip, it’s still much cheaper than booking a paid tour, and your guide will do the utmost to earn their tip.

Besides the main attractions of the city, s/he will show you the best places to eat and go out, and you’ll also learn about the history of the city. This is definitely a worthwhile way to learn more about a city you’re visiting.

21. Tourist passes are very handy when planning a cheap trip

If you’re really invested in seeing a city’s main sights, get a tourist pass so you can see all of them cheaply.

Tourist cards or passes can get you pretty significant discounts on the main attractions of a city, so they’re a huge help when you’re planning a low budget trip . Many cities have these cards, so it is worth looking into getting one if you’re going to be visiting lots of monuments and museums.

There are generally two types of cards: day passes, which offer unlimited attractions over a certain number of days (1, 2, 3, 5, and 7 days, for example), and flexi cards, which allow you to visit a certain number of attractions over a longer period of time (2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 10, 12 attractions in 30/60 days, for instance).

The most popular tourist passes are Sightseeing Pass and CityPass . What’s great about these passes is that they don’t just get you discounts on monuments. They also often include tour bus rides, so you can get both sightseeing and transportation for the price of one .

Eat for cheap and save on your trip

Trying new food and sampling the local cuisine is one of the most exciting parts of any trip. However, eating out at loads of restaurants, cafes, and diners adds up quickly.

Eating out can be a big expense, but if you want to travel cheap , there are definitely ways to save on food.

22. Avoid touristy restaurants and eat where locals eat

A way to travel cheaply around the world is to eat like the locals do. They won’t be shelling out for a fancy restaurant, so you don’t have to either.

In fact, fancy restaurants are not always the best places to find the best and most authentic food. Local places often have food that’s just as good, if not better. Avoid eating in touristy restaurants and tourist areas to help you save money, and try to eat in places that aren’t as close to the city center. You’ll not only get to taste authentic local cuisine, but you’ll also pay a lot less.

If you travel to a country where street food is popular, that is definitely the cheapest way to eat.

23. Shop in local grocery stores, the best alternative for saving on meals

One of the easiest ways to eat when you’re traveling on a budget is to buy food from markets and local grocery stores, and then have a picnic.

Much of the food you can buy in grocery stores is ready to eat anyway, so it’s easy to buy some and find a nice park to sit in and eat. Sometimes, we even buy things from the supermarket so we can have dinner in our hotel room.

If you’re going on a tour, whether by bus or on foot, buy a sandwich and some snacks ahead of time so you’re prepared. You will save a lot compared to buying your lunch on the tour.

24. Pick a hotel with meals included and travel around the world on a budget

Consider the option of accommodation that includes breakfast/dinner, since it could be cheaper than buying your own breakfast.

A great tip for cheap travel is to take extra food from the breakfast buffet, if your hotel has one, and save it to eat for lunch. This trick can save you a lot of money. Keep this in mind when you’re booking a hotel because you may be able to get a room with breakfast included for the same price as a regular room.

All-inclusive hotels may be expensive, but they might actually help you save money on your overall trip. Of course, whether you book one depends on what type of traveler you are. You’d probably like an all-inclusive hotel if you want a relaxing, leisurely vacation, but you’d be better off booking another type of accommodation if you want to do long days of sightseeing around the city every day.

Booking.com  allows you to filter hotels by meal plans (free breakfast/dinner/all-inclusive), so it’s a great tool for finding accommodation that includes meals.

25. Cook for yourself. One of the most useful travel for cheap tips

One of the best cheap ways to travel is to be your own chef. Book a hotel or accommodation with a kitchen, and whip up your own delicious meals.

For instance, many hostels have shared kitchens, and sometimes you can even get free ingredients, since departing guests often leave leftover ingredients for anyone to use. This is a great option if you’re traveling on a budget.

You can also prepare meals before you go sightseeing, and they don’t necessarily have to be quick, lazy meals. You’re the chef, so get as elaborate or as simple with your food as you want.

Every once in a while, you can even make yourself a really nice meal as a treat, which is something I recommend if you’re taking a long-term cheap trip .

Use these other ways to plan a cheap trip

In addition to all the tips above, there are still plenty of other ways to save money on your trip. Below, I’ve shared my last few tips for ways to travel cheap .

26. At least buy cheap travel insurance, even if you’re traveling on a budget

Planning a cheap trip should not mean traveling unprotected. It might seem expensive or unnecessary to spend money on travel insurance, but in fact, travel insurance can actually save you money in the long run.

If you have an accident, travel insurance can help you save money on or even cover your medical bills. Plus, if anything else goes wrong, like a missed flight or lost luggage, you’ll be compensated for it.

I advise you to have a look at our article on the cheapest travel insurance . It will help you choose the travel insurance that’s best for you. Actually, I’m using the annual travel insurance provided by Heymondo.

5% OFF your travel insurance

27. Buy a travel SIM card to avoid roaming charges and travel for cheap

If you want to have Internet when traveling , I recommend buying a SIM card for travelers . That way, you’ll always have Internet, and you won’t rack up an insanely high phone bill from roaming charges.

We recommend using the Holafly eSIMs . They have SIMs for any country from them. Just choose how many days and how many gigabytes of data you want. You can even enjoy a 5% discount on Holafly . 

5% OFF your international eSIM card

If your phone does not support eSIM cards, you can also opt for a physical SIM from SimOptions , which is another very good option.

28. Use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees

Travel credit cards can save you a lot of money. Foreign transaction fees may not seem like much, but they really add up over time, so a credit card with no foreign transaction fees is pretty much a must for a frequent traveler.

Even better, with travel credit cards , you accumulate points for every purchase you make. You can then use the points you’ve accumulated to buy flights, pay for hotels, and rent vehicles. The more you spend, the more travel expenses you can get for cheap or for free. We explain everything in our guide on how to calculate the points value .

28. Credit card with no foreign transaction fees

I recommend two travel credit cards: the Capital One Venture Rewards card and the Chase Sapphire Preferred card.

29. Find “travel for cheap” blogs and avoid travel agencies

If you want to take a cheap trip around the world , don’t go to a travel agency. Travel agencies charge commission, since they take a percentage of the reservation, so I always recommend organizing a trip on your own.

There are many travel blogs that can help you save on your trip. They can also recommend which tourist attractions are worth visiting and which aren’t, as well as tell you about their experience, so you know exactly what to expect.

Travel agencies are going to try to sell you every possible tour, even if they’re expensive and not worth it. That’s why I always recommend planning your trip with travel for cheap blogs instead.

30. Take photos. They are the cheapest souvenirs

It’s tempting to fill up your suitcase with souvenirs for all of your friends and family, but every postcard and keychain adds up.

If you really want to travel for cheap , avoid buying souvenirs. Take photos instead. They’re cheaper and will be a great way to remember your trip. Plus, you can do a slideshow for your friends and family when you get back from your trip!

With that, those are all of our top tips for cheap ways to travel . I hope I’ve shown that it’s still possible to have a lovely trip, even when you’re traveling on a budget.

We hope you use our tips when you’re planning your next trip and that you’re able to get some great deals. If you have any questions about cheap travel planning, feel free to leave us a question in the comments and we’ll be sure to answer it!

Happy traveling!

Don't miss a 5% discount on your HeyMondo travel insurance  

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How to travel on a budget: travelers' tips and hacks

The number one inhibitor of travel is money, but that shouldn't be the case! Find out how to travel on a budget and have incredible international experiences without putting a huge dent in your wallet.

Dec 13, 2023

Traveling on a budget does not have to be a cheap experience.

Alternatively, traveling abroad while spending your hard-earned money wisely is a rewarding and relatively easy thing to do. 

Don't believe me? Find out how to travel on a budget with these top 10 money-saving travel hacks. I'll cover everything from how to find cheap airfare anytime of year to how to do a work exchange in the best places to travel abroad on a budget.

How to travel on a budget: travelers' tips and hacks

1. prepare for your adventure: budgeting 101.

You know how your parents, your college advisor, and your bank always told you to budget? That's because it really does help in the management of your money!

Creating and having a planned daily budget will make traveling more affordable and ease any worries you may have about over-spending .

When I traveled abroad for the first time, to Costa Rica in high school, I needed to save the money I made babysitting, and create a "I'll pay you back" plan with my parents. Although annoying, it worked, and by the time the trip rolled around I had money for trip costs plus souvenirs.

A useful tool that can help you plan your expenditure is a budget calculator . This specific calculator actually helps you save for the specific country you're interested in traveling to.

Being country specific is wise as you'll want to factor in exchange rates. In addition to the above budget calculator, you can use XE Currency or download the App version to determine exchange rates.

Travel budget tools such as TrialWallet can also set you on the right track for the experience you want to have abroad. Apps like this also track accommodation, entertainment, and transportation costs as you go!

Make sure to have some emergency cash on hand for those unexpected rental car break-downs and round of drinks for your new-found friends at the pub. You will also want to bring backup payment methods (credit and debit cards). Make sure to inform your bank(s) prior to traveling with your debit and credit cards, to avoid them flagging your purchases as fraudulent charges. 

Don't miss out:  Adventure planning: the best guide for your backpacking trip .

Preparation is everything when it comes to traveling the world on a budget!

2. Make the most out of travel rewards programs

What's the one thing better than traveling? Getting rewarded for it. 

If you travel frequently, whether for work or pleasure, it is worth looking into travel rewards programs .

With sign up bonuses upwards of $500 USD, travel credit cards can prove beneficial to the budget-conscious traveler. You can continue to receive points for purchases you make that can be redeemed for flights, car rentals, and accommodation. Check out Chase Sapphire Preferred , Capital One Venture Miles , and Citi ThankYou Premier  cards for some pretty sweet deals (just make sure you can pay it off each month to avoid interest charges).

3. Know where to look for budget-friendly flights and accommodation

The cost of airfare is probably the biggest expense you'll incur.

Being flexible in your destination will help you stay within your budget constraints . Even having a few options gives you a lot of leverage. Also — delete your cookies! Not the delicious chocolate chip kind, the kind airlines and booking sites use to jack up the fares you see when searching for flights.

Here are some recommended resources for booking travel. They often have great deals because airlines need to fill empty seats last minute.

• Scott's Cheap Flights  – Getting an email every day can be annoying, unless it updates you on the cheapest flights found on the internet based on your location! With Scott's it's easy to find a flight. If only we had more time off work...

• Momondo – In this day and age, it's hard to tell if you're really getting the most for your money. Momondo does not use cookies to increase or alter fares based on your previous searches, which happens more than any of us like to admit.

• Adioso – Incredibly easy to use, this is the site for those with a flexible itinerary. You can be as broad as you want with your search (i.e. Los Angeles to Anywhere sometime in July for two weeks). Then sit back and relax as Adioso finds the best deals for you!

• Kayak – You've probably heard of this one, but did you know you can add " anywhere " as a destination filter? Even if you already know where you want to go, it's fun to play around with!

• SkyScanner – Check out this site for really great deals, as they work directly with the airlines and third parties to find exclusive deals. They also have a pretty cool map feature in case you want to do some further exploring.

Apps like Hopper and Fareness are also great resources you can take advantage of to find the best value flights.  Keep in mind that cutting cost in some cases means longer layovers, additional connections, and increased travel time .

Wondering how to travel Europe on a budget ? Thinking of checking out the stunning landscapes of New Zealand ? 

Whether a quick trip across the pond or a long journey to the other side of the world, it's smart to track fares prior to purchasing.  The apps mentioned above can help you identify the perfect time to buy , usually two to three months in advance of your trip.

4. Explore alternative accommodation

Is it possible to score free accommodation while traveling internationally? 

In short, yes, it is, and the following options are just a few of many ways to help you travel abroad on a budget . However, you'll need to do a bit of preparation and expect a somewhat unorthodox international experience.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a budget-friendly way to travel used by thousands of travelers around the world. Residents of the community abroad, or hosts, are willing to accept travelers as guests and offer a couch, bed, or even an extra room at no cost, regardless of their nationality.

Couchsurfing is dedicated to connecting locals and travelers for the sole purpose of fostering cultural exchange and mutual respect.

The local residents who welcome couch-surfers are usually open-minded and eager to interact with the world around them. You should bear in mind that you may not always get world-class accommodation, but it's usually an enriching experience for both the surfers and the hosts.

Visit Couchsurfing to create a profile, making sure to make it friendly and accurate. Then, search the cities you're traveling to and find a potential host! Reach out to them with a nice message and include why you want to travel to their hometown. You really can't beat free when trying to travel on a budget!

House Sitting

TrustedHousesitters  is another fun and affordable way to secure free accommodation . You will be volunteering to watch someone' s house, pets, and/or plants in exchange for a roof over your adventure-seeking head.

Some other websites to look for house sitting jobs include Mind My House and HouseCarers . You may need to pay an annual fee to be able to contact the homeowners, but that can be worked into your travel-friendly budget!

Outdoor Camping

Looking to live the outdoor lifestyle and save some moola? Especially if traveling to more temperate climates, consider camping!

You can secure a campsite using resources like FreeCampsites . Here are some things to take note of if going this route:

• Pack accordingly! Make sure you bring the following: tent, sleeping bag, air mattress or sleeping pad, water filtration system and flashlight.

• Local laws pertaining to fires, trespassing, and acceptable campsite behavior vary, so do some research before you go.

• "Take only memories, leave only footprints" — keep your campsite pristine so others can enjoy it in the future. You wouldn't want someone to come and trash your backyard!

Airbnb has really blown up the past couple of years, but it's still a great way to save a few dollars and get more of an authentic experience.

I now solely use Airbnb when I travel if I can. In addition to being a great way to travel on a budget, you'll get recommendations from your hosts and tips that will most likely save you even more money.

When staying at an Airbnb recently in Napa, California I even scored a bottle of wine upon arrival!

See the world the Worldpackers way

Worldpackers  abounds in ways to travel abroad on a budget!

Travel in exchange for things you already do and are good at. Added bonus: you'll be actively and responsibly giving back to the community you are traveling to — all while saving money!

In addition to making travel easily affordable and sustainable,  Worldpackers hosts offer you a chance to become part of the local community and make friendships that will last a lifetime!

To learn more about using Worldpackers to travel the world on a budget, check out the Broke Backpacker's firsthand account of what it's like to travel with Worldpackers!

5. Volunteer or do a work-exchange

Do you enjoy giving back to your community? Why not try volunteering on the international stage? 

I've found that doing community service abroad is one of the most rewarding ways to travel on a budget . 

As mentioned above, Worldpackers has plenty of opportunities to volunteer abroad through social impact programs . A few weeks from now you could be instructing kids in playing football at an NGO in Togo or lending a helping hand at a wildlife sanctuary in Borneo!

And don't forget about Worldpackers work exchange programs!  Discover Bangkok while being a front desk receptionist at a local hostel or develop a social media plan for a guest house in Jamaica . These are both examples of incredible work exchange programs with Worldpackers.

There are many other volunteer abroad organizations out there, but you'll want to make sure they are reputable. Read reviews from past participants and make sure you're getting enough bang for your buck if they charge a fee. 

Your goal is to travel the world on a budget and at the same time offer your skills to a community that would find them useful .

6. Teach English abroad

Another way to travel sustainably on a budget is to teach abroad . Even if you don't have extensive teaching experience, being a native English speaker is a huge plus in classrooms around the world. You could also use your English proficiency to be a private tutor or translator.

In most countries, especially Japan , South Korea , Mexico , Taiwan , and China , English teachers are well paid and respected . Some schools will require you to have a TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages or CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Adults), but others only require a bachelor’s degree in any field of study.

When I taught for a year in the Dominican Republic , I was offered a lower grade level to instruct as I did not have prior teaching experience. The school at which I taught hired me because I did not know much Spanish, which forced the students to learn English at a faster pace. 

I ended up learning Spanish quite quickly and I'd highly recommend at least having basic knowledge of the native language(s) to facilitate learning, however it is not as much of a barrier in the lower grades.

TEFL  (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) offers some awesome certification programs abroad where you learn the local language, the best practices for teaching English as a foreign language, and are guaranteed placement at a school . If you sign up for this type of journey abroad, they'll also assist you with the work visas and documents you'll need.

Teaching abroad is not limited to language instruction! If teaching English abroad doesn't interest you, check out the Worldpackers programs focused on teaching sports, life skills, and more to communities around the world . 

I can tell you from my own experience that teaching abroad is another ideal way to  travel the world on a budget . You'll often even get paid...  which brings us to the next best way to travel on a budget!

7. Get paid to travel and work abroad!

Want to travel to Australia on a budget? What about Belgium ? While these are some of the most expensive places to fly, stay, and travel around, it's possible! A great way to visit the pricier locales around the world is through a work exchange , or travel gig.

With a long experience in the travel industry, it's easy for me to say this. I've led student programs around the world, scoring free flights for chaperoning students and guiding trips in Vietnam , Morocco , the Dominican Republic , and throughout the U.S. However, there are other ways to travel abroad and not spend a dime.

In addition to the teaching jobs I've already mentioned, you could try being an Au Pair. Households around the world will pay for your visa, travel, and accommodation in exchange for childcare. There are many programs available, which you can check out on GoOverseas  or GoAbroad , both reputable travel sites for travelers of all ages and nationalities.

Tourism and hospitality are also industries popular with international nomads. You may have already thought of scoring a job at a hotel or restaurant while abroad, but have you thought about a job aboard a cruise ship or yacht? What about as a bicycle guide or ski instructor? An eco-lodge or campsite assistant? 

Think outside the box and you'll be pleasantly surprised at the opportunities out there. I've tried searching through sites like Coolworks  (U.S.) and Get Up & Go Global , which match you with jobs in resorts and hotels around the world.

In this digital age, many digital nomad jobs now allow you to work remotely, from home, or wherever you happen to be! Why not take your job with you when you travel? Create a travel blog , or start documenting your travel journey and become a freelance writer !   Just make sure you're going somewhere with access to WiFi...

8. Make the most out of your layover

Want to get the most out of your travel budget? Book connecting flights and make the most of your long layover . 

Odds are you will have at least one layover which you can extend through your airline . 

Many airlines are partnering with countries they operate in to promote tourism. Airlines currently participating include Iceland Air, Thai Airways, Japan Airlines, Air Canada and United Arab Airlines. 

Take in Iceland for up to seven nights at no additional cost (and even get a tour guide)! Schedule a stopover in Bangkok or explore Mt. Fuji during your extended layover in Tokyo. In Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver you'll secure a hotel for a fixed price of $49 USD/night if your layover is greater than six hours — say what?! 

Last but far from least, United Arab Emirates offers their customers one night at a hotel, a visa, and transportation to and from the airport for only $62 USD! You'll need to purchase your flight(s) directly from these airlines, but any difference in price is well worth the customization.

9. Choose your activities wisely

Even when traveling in a budget-conscious way, sometimes things just add up. If you go out to eat for every meal, at around $10 USD per meal (and that's a very modest allowance), that's $210 per week.

Instead, find a grocery store, and pre-cook some of your meals. When out and about, opt for the food-cart or bring your own snacks. 

Some hostels and hotels offer free or shared meals, especially breakfast. Take advantage! You'll be saving money for other activities, or a really great meal worth the extra cost.

Ride-sharing

Most locations now have ride-sharing services like Uber, Lyft, Grab, etc. Download these apps before you go! 

You should also become familiar with how the locals get around , as this is most likely the most economic way to travel . It may not be easy at first, but you'll get the hang of it and be prouder for it!

Group discounts

You still want to experience the incredible activities you have access to when traveling, even when doing so on a budget. 

Apps like Groupon are a great way to book awesome experiences for cheap(er). Airbnb also offers discounted activities in addition to accommodation. 

Not really into booking through an app? Touch base with the hostel or hotel you're staying at and often they'll have group t rips available that you can book independently. This is a great way to make your trip a bit more social as well!

Who doesn't love free stuff? Especially in good weather, there are often a plethora of activities that you can do at no cost. 

Hiking, swimming, attending a local festival, walking around city parks, and exploring museums that don't have admission costs are great examples of activities you can do while traveling abroad on a budget . 

Traveling to Japan with limited funds? Check out well-known temples and shrines for a small fee or the cherry blossoms for free! Traveling to Greece on a budget? Hit the beach to soak up some sun or join a free walking tour.

Many cities also offer discount cards or passes. Check the tourism sites of your destination to check out these deals. For example, New York City has a CitiPASS card that allows you to purchase admission to multiple attractions at a discounted rate.

Well worth the foresight! Students, Seniors, and Military members also often receive discounts world-wide. Make sure to bring appropriate identification.

10. Choose the best places to travel on a budget

When traveling on a budget there are some areas of the world that will offer you more for your money. 

Depending on where you are coming from, it's best to check currency exchange rates. Flights to Asia may be expensive, but once you're there you can secure accommodation for as little as $3 USD and meals for just a $1 USD. 

You may be seeing an overwhelming number of cheap flights to Iceland , but once there you may be paying a lot for meals and a nice place to stay, let alone renting a car.

Timing also matters. Peak tourist seasons are not ideal for budget friendly travel. 

Try to plan your time abroad towards the beginning or end of the typical tourist season and avoid holidays unless they are country specific . 

Try flying from New York to the Dominican Republic around Christmas time and you'll see what I mean. As demand increases, average flight costs go from $300 USD to $600 or more. While you may face some less than desirable weather, you'll beat the crowds and won't break your bank.

My final piece of advice — don't count out those destinations closest to you. 

Growing up in Upstate New York, Canada was just a few short hour's drive north. However, I didn't consider exploring it until after I already had many international travel experiences.  I was pleasantly surprised upon discovering the vibrant nightlife and tasty poutine of Montreal and the quaint cobblestone streets of Quebec City. 

Travel does not have to leave you eating pasta every night of the week.  With these money-saving travel hacks ,  you can travel on a budget and have incredible experiences!

Join the community!

Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

I love to explore the world and am happy to share my experiences with you (and offer some tips & tricks I've learned along the way)! To me, travel means learning more about myself - my preconceptions, my strengths and abilities, but above all, the beauty in my life and all that the world has to offer. I always enjoy discussing travel experiences, so please reach out with questions or comments!

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Nov 09, 2020

The Universe has led me to this website as I asked for guidance of where in the world I should go, so exciting! My experience in life and owning my own businesses are VAST and would love to travel helping and coaching other humans all over the world, show them anything is possible through the mind. I absolutely love this website! Easy to use, and SO MUCH INFO, I have been reading/on site for 3 hours! Thank you! Kelly~

Mar 22, 2022

Great tips! People don't realise how "easy" it actually is to travel for "free"!

More about this topic

The lazy-traveler's guide to budget travel tips

How easy traveling on a budget with Worldpackers actually is

16 awesome places worldwide to get free accommodation in exchange for work

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Apply to as many positions as you like, and get in contact with our verified hosts.

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Protect Your Trip »

12 Unconventional Ways to Save on Travel

Points and miles are major, but there are other cheap ways to travel too.

Getty Images

Consider setting up airfare alerts, housesitting and traveling midweek to help stay in budget.

Traveling can be expensive, and even when you rely on widely known savings tactics – such as traveling in off-peak seasons or staying at a hostel or a rental with a kitchen – the costs inevitably add up. If you're looking for ways to save on your next trip, add these unconventional tips provided by travel industry experts to your hat of travel tricks.

Get a set of packing cubes

Traveling with just a carry-on bag is a cost-effective option since it's typically free on most major airlines, but it's often easier said than done. That's why packing cubes are a good investment. They don't cost much – you can get a quality set like this one by Bagail for less than $25 – and they inevitably allow you to save space and fit more in your carry-on (or checked luggage ).

[Read: Guide: Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline .]

Choose the flight, then the destination

Scott Keyes, flight expert and founder of Scott's Cheap Flights , recommends changing the way you search for flights to save on airfare . Instead of looking for flights to a specific destination, use a flight comparison tool like Google Flights , Momondo or Skyscanner to browse a variety of airfares from your preferred airport(s). Maybe a trip to Barcelona wasn't what you originally had in mind, but if the price is right, why not head there instead?

Consider alternate airports

While flying from the airport closest to home is always the most convenient option, Keyes also suggests comparing fares from other airports, even those that are a few hours away. You may find prices are hundreds of dollars less to get to the same location, making the combined cost of gas, parking and driving time an excellent investment.

If you can drive a few hours to a larger airport with more flight options in general, that may be even better. Not only do you have the potential to save money, but you're more likely to find a direct flight or a route with fewer layovers.

[Read: What to Do If Your Flight Is Canceled or Delayed .]

Set up airfare alerts

If you're eager to travel far and want to save big on airfare, keep an eye out for short-term airfare offers on websites like Hopper and Trip.com . These sites offer deals that usually last a short time, meaning you have to strike while the iron is hot. "I do this every time I book a flight and I usually save at least 10%, but sometimes up to 75%," says Josh Band of A Backpacker's World . "I once got a flight that should have been $200-plus for just over $50 by setting up an alert."

Go to Europe for Thanksgiving

Many Americans opt to head to Grandma's house or another domestic destination for turkey dinner. However, not as many escape to the Caribbean and Mexico, and even less go to Europe – which means you're more likely to find flight deals to Paris , London and other European vacations you've been wanting to cross off your bucket list.

Travel midweek

There's no set day of the week to book the cheapest airfare, but there are less expensive days to travel, says Keyes. He recommends flying on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays since most business travelers fly on Sundays and Mondays (and consequently drive up the cost of airfare on those days).

Consider a 'bleisure' trip

If you have an upcoming business trip in a unique or new-to-you destination, consider tacking on a few personal days to the journey. This way, you can enjoy a mini-vacation sans airfare (assuming your company will cover that portion).

[Read: The Best Garment Bags for Travel, According to Reviews .]

Buy travel insurance

It may sound counterintuitive, but purchasing travel insurance can save your bank account (and your sanity) in the event that you or a family member falls ill or has another emergency that forces you to change your vacation plans before or during the trip. A basic and cheap travel insurance policy will suffice, though there are coverage options for a wide variety of needs – including cancel for any reason travel insurance (which is exactly what it sounds like).

Housesit for free accommodations

Did you know you can enjoy free accommodations in exchange for housesitting? Sites like House Sitters America and Mind My House offer housesitting opportunities for a small annual fee (less than $50). Many of the homeowners have pets who need TLC while they're gone, too, making this a fun and budget-friendly alternative to traditional rentals like Airbnb. No matter where you travel, it doesn't get much better than living like a local and playing with pups.

Similarly, you can try couch surfing, which allows you to stay with a local for free. Services like the site Couchsurfing charge a negligible monthly or annual fee to sign up and get verified for safety purposes, while others such as BeWelcome are free. These services also provide exclusive meetups with other travelers.

Read: The Best Vacation Rental Travel Insurance Plans

Sign up for a family loyalty program

Did you know there are loyalty programs that allow family members or groups to pool rewards or freely transfer rewards to others?

"This can be a great option for infrequent travelers who may not rack up enough points or miles for a free flight or hotel room individually – but can reach those rewards when combined," says Nick Ewen, director of content for The Points Guy . "In some cases, it's a single, pooled account that automatically combines points (like JetBlue). In other cases, you can simply transfer points from one account to another (like Hilton Honors, World of Hyatt, or Marriott Bonvoy)." He recommends reading the full terms and conditions of these programs, as some impose time limits, maximum transfer amounts and other restrictions.

Use travel rewards on experiences

Don't forget that both airline credit cards and airline rewards programs can be used to cover more than flights and hotels. Programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards make it easy to redeem points for sporting events, dining (including reservations, exclusive culinary experiences and takeout orders) and more.

You can also use points earned on hotel credit cards as well as hotel rewards programs to pay for fun experiences in hundreds of destinations around the world. Options range from cooking classes and concerts to outdoor activities and spa experiences .

Book a refundable car rental

While some companies offer discounts for prepaid car rentals, many travelers say they've had better luck with booking refundable car rentals , allowing them to secure a reasonable rate while keeping a watchful eye for price drops. If a better price pops up, simply cancel your original reservation and book at the lower rate. Frequent traveler Pamela Howard, who writes about her experiences on Our Adventure Is Everywhere , says she's consistently able to save anywhere from $25 to $100 using this tactic on Costco Travel car rentals. "It's simple and that little bit of time rechecking rates pays substantially in savings."

Ewen says you can do the same when you book a flight or hotel using points since many loyalty programs have flexible cancellation policies. "If you lock in a flight at 35,000 miles and see that your same ticket is 30,000 miles just a week later, you should be able to rebook and get those 5,000 miles back into your account," he explains.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines for the Money
• The Top Cheap All-Inclusive Resorts
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• The Top All-Inclusive Resorts Where Kids Stay Free
• Cruise Lines That Let Kids Sail Free

Tags: Travel , Budget Travel , Travel Tips

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10 tips to take a vacation for less than $500

Key takeaways

• Despite high prices for airfare, hotels, and car rentals, it's possible to get away for under $500 a person.
• You don't need to sacrifice fun or good food. You just need to be more creative about where you find it.

Who couldn't use a vacation? But with inflation driving up the cost of food, housing, and other essentials, it's hard to know how to travel for cheap. Luckily, a nice break doesn't have to bust your budget. We talked to 7 people who all skipped town for at least 4 days in 2022—for under $500 a person. Here are their travel tips for having a lot of fun for not a lot of money.

Feed your brain. Fund your future.

1. Make a swap for a free stay

Lauren Serpico didn't spend a dime on lodging on a 6-night trip to Denver. She belongs to TrustedHousesitters, a pet-sitting service. For a $199 annual membership fee, Serpico, 31, can stay at pet owners' homes for free in exchange for caring for their critters. Besides feeding a cat twice a day, "I had to change her litter box and give her some snuggles, but that's about it." Serpico even gets unlimited pet-sits for her cockapoo, Napoleon, when she's away from her hometown of San Diego.

Not into animals? Meg Knutson, 38, swaps her home instead through HomeExchange. For $220 a year, she and her family earn points for lending out their Crozet, Virginia, house that they can apply toward stays at nearly half a million other homes. She recently spent 4 days in a 4-bedroom house in Blowing Rock, North Carolina—for free. And it had everything her family of 4 was looking for, including a large kitchen and beautiful mountain view.

2. Head to the great outdoors

"We knew focusing on outdoor activities, like hiking, would be a great way to save money on travel ," says Catherine Oliva, 34, a Houstonian who visited Sedona, Arizona, with her husband.

One of the highlights of Knutson's North Carolina trip was mountain biking, which cost them nothing because they brought their own bikes. And then there was the 5 a.m. lunar eclipse. "It was amazing," she says. "We had a perfect view of it from the house." On Joe Dello Russo's trip to the White Mountains, New Hampshire, the 25-year-old and his girlfriend climbed Mount Washington, the highest peak in the northeastern United States, paying only a $20 fee to park their car. They spent most of the rest of their time on another low-cost activity: fishing. Even their outdoor lodging didn't cost a thing. They found it on a national database of free camping spots.

3. Don't settle for high rental-car costs

Car rentals jumped in price by more than 51% between April 2019 and April 2023, a bigger spike than airfare and hotel rates. 1 Still, you can borrow a set of wheels for a deal. After airfare, the rental car was the biggest expense of Michelle Jubinville's Orlando, Florida, vacation, and yet it was only $100 for 4 days. "We have access to corporate codes for car rentals through our jobs," says Jubinville, 35, of East Longmeadow, Massachusetts.

No perk, no problem. To keep their rental car costs down in pricey Sedona, Oliva rented through a peer-to-peer car-sharing company: $250 for 4 days. "We spent a lot less than we would have if we had rented from a large car-rental company," she says.

4. Use flight and gas trackers

Even budget airlines can seem out of budget these days. Jubinville relied on a free flight tracker to find the lowest fares possible. The winning ticket: $210 roundtrip between Massachusetts and Florida.

Dello Russo also knew how to travel for cheap and used a free tracker to find the best prices on gas to get him from Portland, Maine, to 2 hours away in New Hampshire, then to several hiking and fishing spots in the mountains, and back home. At a time when a gallon of gas neared record highs, Dello Russo spent about $150 getting around over 4 days.

5. Pack light

With many airlines charging $30 or more for your first checked bag, and some charging carry-on fees, 2 Jubinville and her family of 4 "traveled light and didn't check any bags." One way to keep what you carry to a minimum: Consider ordering what you may use and finish while you're away (such as snacks and drinks) from a site that offers free shipping straight to where you're staying. If you'll be at a hotel, confirm they don't charge extra for receiving packages.

6. Consider hotels that offer more than just a room

"Hotels can be expensive in Sedona, so we intentionally chose one that included breakfast," Oliva says. The Jubinvilles always stay at the same hotel chain, and their high loyalty status scored them free breakfast at their hotel too. Other hotels may offer free shuttles to popular spots around town, so you can skip the rental car or ride-shares. And some may have plenty of fun on the property. Think: movie nights, live entertainment, and supervised kid activities, saving you from having to shell out extra elsewhere. For instance, the Jubinvilles could have dropped big bucks at a theme park, but instead had fun at the hotel pool for no additional charge.

7. Stay near the action

Serpico saved money by taking a train from the airport to a station in downtown Denver before she hailed a quick ride-share to where she was staying. "Ride-shares can run up travel costs pretty quickly, so I stay at homes that are either centrally located or are near public transportation," Serpico says. She spent $80 on ground transportation altogether.

While hotels and homes in prime locations tend to cost more than those far from the sites, what you'd spend on gas or ride-shares might cost more than the accommodations' upcharge. "Because our hotel was close to a lot of hiking trails, we didn't have to drive far each day," says Oliva, who spent $75 on gas for the entire 4-day Sedona trip.

8. Time your trip right

The month of the year, week of the month, and day of the week can make flight and hotel prices jump or drop. Learn how to travel for cheap in your destination before you book, and avoid peak periods if possible. Dani Heinrich, a 40-year-old New Yorker, strategically timed her El Salvador trip, traveling Tuesday to Friday. "The beach towns are popular with Salvadorans who come down to the coast from the capital on weekends, so it's definitely cheaper to visit on weekdays," she says. Staying at the ecolodge she chose cost just $40 a night—and included breakfast.

9. Eat outside of restaurants

Besides hotel breakfasts, Heinrich ate a lot of cheap (and delicious) street food instead of dining at restaurants. "Pupusas, a thick, hand-pressed corn tortilla typically filled with cheese and meat, beans, or seafood, only cost $1. A couple of them will fill you up," she says. Her total food expenses: $80.

To cut his food costs, Dello Russo bought about $70 worth of groceries and cooked meals at their campsite. Jenna Singer, 32, of San Francisco, grocery shopped for lunches and snacks during a Utah hiking vacation.

10. Opt for credit cards that offer travel rewards

If traveling for cheap is your priority, look into charging expenses (if you can pay them off right away) with a credit card with travel benefits. Singer racked up enough points to cover a round-trip flight between San Francisco and Las Vegas. She and her friend then stayed in a Las Vegas hotel for a free night—an annual perk from her hotel-chain rewards credit card. Likewise, the Jubinvilles paid for their hotel stay entirely with points, which they had accrued through their hotel-chain credit card.

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How To Travel The World Cheap: 57 Epic Budget Travel Hacks for 2024!

There are lots of practices you can adopt in order to travel the world cheap . The most effective ways are to take advantage of Airmiles, exchange work for free food and accommodation, have a well researched travel plan and to be savvy with bank cards and money exchanges.

Since 2008 I’ve travelled all over the world on a fairly tight budget, often working as I go. In this guide I want to share 57 cheap travel hacks that I’ve picked up which will have you exploring the globe for less.

So, let’s get straight into it!

Transportation Travel Tips & Hacks

1. Flight booking hacks. One of the biggest initial costs when travelling is your flight ticket. So in order to travel cheap, use flight comparisons sites such as Kiwi . You may find booking directly through the airline is cheaper but always use a price comparison engine to check before you book.

Pro Tip : Make sure to clear your cookies and browsing history to avoid price increases. By searching for flights you are signalling to the world that you are looking to buy, so prices will then increase daily in order to get you to panic buy. Delete cookies or browse in incognito mode to avoid this. @import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Inter&family=Inter:wght@500&family=Noto+Serif&family=Noto+Serif:wght@500&display=swap'); .tp_wrapper { font-family: 'Inter', sans-serif; /* the font, can be replaced with 'Noto Serif' */ max-width: 1024px; } .tp_content { background-color: #DEE9F0; /* main block background color */ padding: 24px 32px 32px; } .tp_subtitle { margin: 0 0 16px; font-size: 22px; font-weight: 500; } .tp_text { font-size: 17px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 145%; margin: 0; } .tp_button { display: inline-block; background: #2A243B; border-radius: 6px; box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer; color: #fff; font-size: 20px; margin-top: 24px; padding: 12px 32px; text-decoration: none; }

2. Try changing the home location of flight booking websites to see if purchasing in another currency is cheaper.

3. One of the cheapest ways to travel is through offering to get bumped off a flight in exchange for a flight voucher. These can be seriously rewarding! Companies will regularly overbook flights on the assumption that people will cancel or not show up. On those times when this doesn’t happen the airlines need to free up seats quick, and that’s where you step in!

4. For short trips choose carry on only or if you need to check baggage, pay for it online before you travel. Airlines will often charge more at the airport.

5. Save on rail travel costs by using railcards. I saved a ton through using the Japan Rail Pass during one visit, however they only save money if you use them to the full so do the research first.  Also consider using overnight trains to save on accommodation costs. This works great in some countries such as India and is an awesome local experience too.

6. If you feel comfortable, consider hitchhiking. Alternatively, connect with other travellers at your hostel to carpool.

7. If you have a flexible plan, investigate relocating vehicles to get free or discounted car hire.

Consider renting a car with Rentalcars , an international car rental booking service that is present all over the world. With Rentalcars you will definitely find a perfect car for your perfect trip wherever you are.

8. When travelling for long periods save money through walking or using buses, instead of using expensive taxis. Use ride sharing apps such as Uber, Lyft, Cabify and Grab. Uber opened the door for cheap car journeys but now there are lots of different companies operating all over the world. Research which ones are best for the areas you’re traveling too and download the app before you go.

9. One of the biggest ways to traveling on the cheap by far, is to use an Airmiles credit card. Every time you spend money with that credit card you will be earning Airmile points which can be exchanged for flights. Just remember to always pay off your credit card every month to avoid high interest fees.

10. Create frequent flyer accounts with every airline you travel with then sit back and enjoy the rewards.

11. A top sneaky travel hack is to jump on airline price errors. Sometimes airfares can pop up at crazy low prices, often caused by a glitch in the Matrix (or something!). If you manage to purchase one of these flights the airline will often honour the incorrect price. Act fast and take advantage of these opportunities by following these ninja websites:

• Secret flying.com
• Jacks Flight Club (UK) or Scott’s Cheap Flights (US)
• The Flight Deal

12. Pack light and smart to avoid excess baggage fees. Roll your clothes or use packing cubes to save on space.

13. Take advantage of layovers to enjoy a quick city visit without any extra flight costs.

14. Try booking two one-way trips rather than a return. I’ve had success with this on flights and rail trips.

15. Keep receipts for gift purchases and claim back the tax at the airport before you leave the country.

16. Travel by campervan. If you’re looking to explore your own country (or continent), consider buying a campervan to combine your method of transportation with your accommodation. My campervan has been one of the best investments I’ve ever made and I can highly recommend it. For all the latest info on converting your own campervan check out my van life section .

Accommodation Travel Hacks

17. Get cheap or free accommodation through housesitting . With housesitting you will generally look after the persons house whilst they are away. Many housesitting jobs often include pet sitting.

18. Get free accommodation and learn all about life from a local through couch surfing .

19. Pick accommodation with free breakfast to save on food costs.

20. Choose private hostel rooms instead of more expensive hotels.

🏨 Where can I find the cheapest hostels?

You will definitely find the hostel you need with Hostelworld , the global hostel-focused online booking platform, inspires passionate travelers to see the world, meet new people, and come back with extraordinary stories to tell.

21. Use booking.com ‘s price matching promise to get the best price on hotels.

22. Travelling on a special occasion? Be sure to let your hotel know and they might offer you a free upgrade.

Work Abroad

23. Exchange work for accommodation and/or food with companies such as Workaway or World packers. Or, if you want to learn about organic growing, check out WWOOF .

24. Earn a passive income to support yourself whilst travelling. There are so many ways to get a side hustle going these days but some examples include;

• Selling your photos on stock photography websites such as Dreamstime or Shutterstock.
• Starting a website. Make sure you use a fast and reliable host. For my websites I use Siteground .
• Selling your photos directly with a website that does it all for you. I use Smugmug .
• Teaching English online.

25. Join a voluntary programme abroad for example VSO. Many volunteer programmes charge a fee and in return they will provide accommodation, food and training. There are volunteer programmes all over the world in all sorts of different professions. For example, I joined the American Conservation Experience as I was interested in conservation and wanted to explore the South West . Here are some other ideas to explore .

26. Work in a travel job, for example as a tour guide with Contiki, Exodus or Backroads. For adventure travel consider life as an Overland Leader. I’ve worked as an overland leader for severn years and have travelled extensively through Asia, Africa and the Americas. Read more about this job here . If you have a particular trade you can also work on cruise ships or private yachts.

27. Work abroad with a work visa. Below the age of 30 work visas for many countries are quite straight forward to get. Whilst in that country you can then pick up temporary work which is usually unskilled, such as fruit picking, retail or a bar work.

After a certain age, usually 30, some countries will still allow you to work but will require work visas for specific professions, for example as a ski instructor or scuba dive instructor.

Alternatively you could get your TEFL certificate and teach English abroad. This can also be done remotely, online.

28. Do your job online. Can your work be done remotely? Post Covid it seems like more companies are exploring this as a full time option so this could open new avenues for many. If you have a service that can be provided online you could also offer your services on Craigslist or Fivrr. 

Destination Tips For Budget Travel

29. A cheap way to travel is to visit destinations where your home currency is strong. You’ll benefit from a strong exchange rate and from cheaper costs of living.

30. Whilst you’re on a tight budget, skip destinations with expensive visas.

31. Stick to one region at a time to avoid air travel costs. When I first went travelling I booked a round the world air ticket thinking I could see the world in 6 months. Boy did I have a lot to learn! Pick one region to fully explore first before moving onto the next. Don’t do what I did and be in a hurry to see everything all at once.

32. Travel during the shoulder season to benefit from lower costs and avoid the crowds at the same time – double win!

Food Travel Hacks To Save Money

33. Cook your own food. One of the best ways to travel around the world for cheap is to limit the amount you spend of food. Now don’t get me wrong I am a complete foodie and believe one of the best things about travelling is experiencing new types of cuisine. However, eating new types of food doesn’t mean going to the most expensive restaurants, in fact it’s often the opposite. But travelling on a limited budget does mean it’s not possible to eat out everyday since the cheapest way to eat often involves cooking your own food. Therefore choose accommodation with kitchens included such as hostels or rent an apartment.

34. Jump on happy hours and all you can eat deals.

35. Eat out at delicious and cheap street food stalls with the locals.

36. Avoid restaurants near popular tourist spots as these will often be overpriced.

37. Limit your alcohol if you have a limited budget.  Alcohol is often expensive and isn’t a necessity.

38. Use a filtered water bottle and never buy water again. Check out this guide to discover which filtered water bottle I recommend for travel .

39. Stealth budget travel hack: Use chewing gum or tic tac containers to transport your favourite spices. Cheap food doesn’t have to be bland!

Planning Tips For How To Travel On The Cheap

40. Set a budget and stick to it. But be sure to include a generous contingency to allow for times when things don’t go to plan or to cover a once in a lifetime opportunity if it arrises. 

41. If you are travelling on a tight budget you need to make a plan before you leave. List your priorities before you set off and refer to the list once you’re on the road. That way you won’t get sucked into doing expensive tours that you weren’t interested in anyway. Check out Google Maps Trip Planner for a great free trip planning tool.

42. Research whether activities you want to enjoy are cheaper to book in advance or are best left open and flexible. Last minute trips can sometimes work out cheaper.

43. If you don’t want the hassle of planning a trip use a travel agent. They know what they’re doing and can often find you the best deals.

44. Get smart and savvy with city tourist cards which provide entrance fees for multiple sites. If you know you’re going to visit all the top sites these will definitely save you money overall. 

45. Enjoy free city walking tours. I’ve enjoyed great free city tours in Galway and Yerevan to name just two. But of course they’re not completely free – don’t forget to tip!

46. Research entrance prices beforehand to avoid getting scammed. However, just be aware of what the local currency is doing as prices can jump up if a currency weakens.

47. Follow your favourite travel companies on social media to learn about special promotions or giveaways.

Money Top Tips For Traveling Cheap

48. Get smart on money Exchange. Never change money at the airport or at busy tourist spots as these will have the worst rates. Hotels or hostels may also offer exchanges which again typically aren’t the best rates but they are safe and convenient so way up the risks/benefits of both.

49. An easy but important cheap way to travel is to use a travel card or join a bank with no overseas fees. This way you can hit the ATM without getting hit with overseas withdrawal fees. I use Starling Bank which is an online bank. All of my transactions are managed online via an app. Also, if purchasing online, they don’t charge for overseas transactions and have decent exchange rates.

50. Haggle but don’t be a d**k! Some cultures embrace bartering, expect it even, but these local people also have to support themselves so don’t be the person that walks away from a purchase for the sake of a dollar! 

51. Use donatefull.com or groupon.com to find best coupons or use wikibuy to apply coupon codes at checkout.

52. A top life hack for travelling is to purchase a Scrubba bag and save on laundry bills. This nifty little bag packs down really small so doesn’t take up any room in your luggage and with just a 3 minute shake, can wash your clothes as good as any washing machine!

53. Keep rechargeable batteries in the fridge or at least in shady places. Rechargeable batteries retain 90% of their full charge if they’re kept cold. Not freezer cold though as this will have the opposite effect.

Phone and Internet

54. Get a local sim card and avoid hefty roaming fees. In some countries these can be a rather involved process but for most it’s quite straight forward. You often need your passport to register the sim card.

55. Use offline maps to save data. I use maps.me for most places when I’m travelling.

56. Consider investing in your own wifi router if you require a good connection. In our campervan we use this super fast Huawei wifi travel hotspot which allows us to connect multiple devices in areas where signal is typically poor.

Travel Insurance

57. Last but by no means least, get yourself some good travel insurance. Travel insurance can be expensive for long trips but you just never know when you might need it. The world of insurance can be a minefield but the guys at SafetyWing do great deals for long term travel through allowing you pay on a month by month basis. I highly recommend checking them out.

Summary On How To Travel The World Cheaply

Travelling around the world cheaply can do be done in many ways but it often requires a good amount of planning in advance. Be prepared for your trip through investigating the best deals, signing up for Airmile credit cards and joining frequent flyer programmes. Consider exchanging work for accommodation and reduce food costs through cooking your own food. Ensure you have the best bank cards to avoid big transaction fees, choose destinations where your currency is strong and use local Sim cards for the best phone and internet deals.

Through incorporating even just a few of these cheap travel tips you’ll be well on your way to exploring further, for longer 🙂

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Louise is an Adventure Tour Guide & Mountain Leader from South Wales. Through working as a tour guide and snowboard instructor, she has spent the last 15 years travelling Asia, Africa and the Americas. Louise is a published photographer and is currently based in the UK.

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Travel the world for cheap with these 13 tried & tested hacks

Travel Travel Inspiration Travel Tips & Hacks How To Travel For Cheap

Traveling to your dream destination doesn’t have to be a long-term plan that breaks your bank account. You can always travel to your dream destination on a budget. Here are some of the tested and proven ways to travel the world for cheap. You can thank us later!

13 sure shot ways to travel the world for cheap

#1 become a pro at travel hacking.

Travel hacking is essentially collecting points on travel credit cards, frequent-flier points, and miles to get freebies. This will, in turn, help you travel for cheap. Depending on how much you collect you can afford free flights, free nights at hotels, access to tours, and much more. Travel hacking can even allow you to have once in a lifetime experience if you collect enough points. For example, certain credit card companies offer luxurious stays like villas in Rome and trips to the French Riviera. Additionally, you can even experience exotic destinations like the Galapagos Islands for dirt cheap if you’ve travel hacked your way right.

What’s truly brilliant is that anybody can accumulate these points and become a pro at travel hacking. All you have to really do is get an airline card, a travel card, or a general rewards card like Chase Sapphire. Ensure that the cards offer a sign-up bonus of at least 50,000 points. The more the better. Now, simply pay for your groceries, restaurants, and daily shopping with these cards. This will help accumulate points extremely fast. Of course, you can go a step further and accumulate more points by using these cards to take surveys and indulge in (necessary) online shopping.

You can even get multiple credit cards for your different needs and club them. For example, some cards might offer free accommodation while some might only offer free miles. Once you take away the airfare and price of accommodation you can spend much more on brilliant experiences.

Your Guide To Traveling The World For Free!

#2 learn the art of finding cheap flights.

Surprisingly, you can save a ton of money on airfare by simply looking for cheap flights in the right places. While platforms like Google Flights and Booking.com can make it easier for you to find tickets, it doesn't show the best offers.WhichBudget is a great site as it shows you hundreds of cheap airlines in over 200 countries. All you need to do is put in some research time and book much in advance. It’s also best to never book around the holidays as prices are almost always at an all-time high.Interestingly, the airports matter as well. A flight to a relatively smaller airport in the city might be cheaper than flights to the bigger ones. Additionally, you can travel for cheap by avoiding checking in luggage as it tends to cost a lot if you’re traveling to multiple countries.

17 Golden Hacks To Snagging Cheap Flight Tickets

#3 couchsurf and list your place on airbnb.

#4 Trust last-minute deals

Hotels and airlines almost always offer last-minute deals to fill up the last seats or rooms. They even go to lengths to price it below their profit margin closer to the dates. . If you’re not concerned about the last-minute hassle and risk, it’s worth pouncing on these deals. Most importantly, you can travel for cheap and save a ton of money. Finding these last-minute deals have become quite easy with sites like Jetsetter and Hipmunk. For last-minute experience deals, there’s no place better than Headout. Planning to visit the Colosseum while standing in a queue at the Vatican? Get the Headout app and in 3 taps find the best last-minute deals in 50+ cities across the world.

#5 Opt for budget travel destinations

This one’s a no-brainer. If you’re looking to travel for cheap, simply opt for a budget travel destination. A budget travel destination does not only offer cheap accommodation but even the food and experiences will be much cheaper than other popular travel destinations. For example, you can eat amazing food, travel around and stay at a paradise-like place in Bali all for less than $100 a day. Countries like Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Portugal are not only extremely affordable but are also rich in culture and are safe. Most importantly, since transportation, food, and accommodation are cheap, you can afford to stay for long and even splurge a little

#6 All-Inclusive packages can be a steal deal

If you’re looking for a super-condensed travel experience, then an all-inclusive package can be an amazing deal. Not only is it cheaper than traveling to all the places on the itinerary individually but it’s also extremely convenient as everything like stay and travel is taken care of by the travel company. Additionally, it’s super safe as you’ll more or less be traveling with a group. Of course, these days all-inclusive packages can be personalized. So, you have the option to spend more or less. And if you want to save some money, it’s best to look out for those last-minute all-inclusive getaway packages

#7 Off-season travel is the way to go

The off-season is the best time to travel if you're wondering “how to travel for cheap?”. Of course, peak seasons have their advantages - the weather, locals out and about, all establishments open in full swing and whatnot. If you’re willing to let go of the little pleasures, then off-season travel is your best bet. Moreover, you won’t be rubbing shoulders with other tourists which you have to admit is a blessing. If you do your research and figure out the off-season months for a city you can expect the airfare and accommodation to be significantly cheaper as well.

#8 Use cards with no foreign transaction fees

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#9 Sign up for free tours

In a majority of cities around the world, free walking tours are easily available. Free tours are essentially pay-what-you-feel tours conducted by a local guide or a college student who knows the city in and out. You can book a slot online and at the end of the tour, you can tip your guide as much as you please. However, that is optional as well. These tours usually last from 1-2 hours and the guide will take you around the most popular places in the city on foot. You get to learn a lot more about the city you're visiting and the history from these tours than the paid ones that tend to cut corners. Furthermore, you can get amazing nightlife and food recommendations from the local guide.

#10 Steer clear of tourist traps

In every city, there are always several tourist traps that you’ll inevitably bump into. It might be accommodation in certain countries or public transportation in others. Regardless, it’s always better to know what are potential tourist traps you could fall for before you step foot in the country. Public transportation and even popular tourist spots in certain countries tend to take advantage of naive foreigners and charge exorbitant prices. Always negotiate and finalize the price before buying a ticket or before getting into the vehicle. When it comes to food and accommodation, book from trusted online portals in advance and you’re good to go!

12 Travel Scams to Watch Out for in 2021

#11 don’t leave home without travel insurance.

Having a travel Insurance policy that suits your travel style is one of the most underrated parts of traveling. Not just for your belongings but also your health. It’s even more important to get it if you have pre-existing health conditions. Travel insurance is also comprehensive protection of sorts that helps you save a lot of money in unfortunate scenarios like theft, cancellations, accidents, and even injury. While it may seem like an extra expense, when things go wrong you can bank on your insurance for coverage. You can get travel insurance from either your pre-existing insurance provider or from third-party providers like World Nomads, Insure My Trip, and Medjet.

The Ultimate Guide To Buying Your First Travel Insurance In The Post COVID World

#12 travel overnight to avoid hotel costs.

One of the best ways to save money and travel for cheap is to travel overnight to avoid hotel costs. You can skip paying for a night if you’re traveling overnight. It might be a tad bit uncomfortable compared to your hotel bed, but it’s worth the money you’re saving.

#13 Get a local sim

We recommend you get a local simcard if you’re planning on staying for more than a week. Roaming charges or even paying for Wi-Fi abroad can get expensive. Getting a local sim allows cheaper international calls and most importantly affordable data plans. Roaming around in search of Wi-Fi is not fun and a local sim can come in handy especially if you’re working while traveling.

Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

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Thrift My Life

The Art of Thrifty Travel, 15 Proven Hacks for Always Finding Cheap Airfare

Posted: May 27, 2024 | Last updated: May 27, 2024

Are you tired of spending a fortune on air travel? The quest for cheap flight deals can feel like a never-ending battle. Fortunately, I’ve got 15 tips to help you snag those elusive, wallet-friendly fares every time. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first getaway, these tips will transform how you search for flights and save you money.

1. Be Flexible with Your Dates

Flexibility is key. Flying on certain days can be significantly cheaper. Typically, mid-week flights are less expensive than weekend ones. Consider adjusting your travel dates, even just by a day or two, and watch the prices drop.

2. Use Incognito Mode When Searching

Airlines and booking sites often track your searches and may raise prices based on your activity. If you want to see the lowest flight prices, only search in incognito or private browsing mode. You can also switch to a secure search engine that doesn’t track your data or go all out and use a secure browser and a VPN.

3. Utilize Flight Comparison Websites

Don’t rely on a single website. Use flight comparison sites like Skyscanner or Google Flights. They comprehensively view available flights and prices from various airlines and booking platforms.

4. Book at the Right Time

Timing is crucial. Studies suggest that booking a flight about 6-8 weeks before domestic travel and 3-6 months before international travel can yield the best deals. Avoid booking at the last minute unless it’s a last-minute deal.

5. Set Fare Alerts

Setting up fare alerts on websites like Kayak or Airfarewatchdog can keep you updated on price drops for specific routes. This way, you can book immediately when a deal pops up.

6. Consider Nearby Airports

Flying out of or into a nearby alternative airport can sometimes be cheaper. Don’t just focus on the major airports; smaller or less busy ones may offer lower fares.

7. Join Airline Loyalty Programs

Frequent flyer programs can offer significant benefits, including access to special deals. Even if you don’t fly often, accumulating points can eventually lead to discounted or free flights.

8. Look Out for Airline Sales and Deals

Airlines often have sales or special promotions. Sign up for the newsletters of airlines you want to travel with and follow on social to stay informed about these deals.

9. Use Airline Credit Cards Wisely

Some airline credit cards offer great sign-up bonuses and rewards on purchases, which you can redeem for flights. However, be cautious with credit and only use this strategy if you can pay off the balance promptly.

10. Consider Multi-City Flights

Booking a multi-city flight can sometimes be cheaper than a direct return trip. Plus, it lets you explore an additional city at no extra flight cost.

11. Avoid Peak Travel Times

Traveling during peak seasons tends to be more expensive. If possible, plan your trip during the off-season when demand is lower rather than around holidays or the middle of Summer.

12. Check for Hidden Fees

Low-cost airlines can have hidden fees for baggage, seat selection, and even printing your boarding pass. Always read the fine print and factor these costs into your decision.

13. Book Connecting Flights Separately

Sometimes booking two separate connecting flights can be cheaper than a direct flight. Just remember to leave enough time between flights to avoid missing connections.

14. Be Open to Last-Minute Deals

While booking in advance is generally advisable, last-minute deals can also save you money, especially for less popular destinations or off-peak times.

15. Use Points and Miles Strategically

If you have points or miles, use them wisely. Look for flights where you can get the most value out of your points, considering both the cost in points and the actual cash price.

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Cash in on Nostalgia: 21 Toys Now Worth a Fortune

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Millennials Don’t Buy These 19 Products Anymore

Millennials are changing consumer habits, quietly replacing once-staple products and traditions. Often criticized for their disruptive preferences, this generation is reshaping the marketplace with digital expertise, ethical buying, and a taste for the unconventional. Millennials Don’t Buy These 19 Products Anymore

10 Reasons Firearms Are Essential to America’s Fabric

Americans’ strong attachment to guns is influenced by constitutional rights, historical context, and cultural traditions. This article explores the cultural perspective driving their unwavering support for gun ownership, revealing the key factors shaping this enduring aspect of American life. 10 Reasons Firearms Are Essential to America’s Fabric

California’s 16 New Laws Raise Red Flags for Prospective Residents

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The post The Art of Thrifty Travel, 15 Proven Hacks for Always Finding Cheap Airfare first appeared on Thrift My Life ..

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / fizkes .

The content of this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute or replace professional financial advice.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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How to use Google Flights to find cheap flights and maximize your next travel booking

Editor's Note

Google Flights is constantly evolving, but it's the one tool I always mention when people ask me how to find better flight prices.

This easy-to-use website can help you find the best possible price on airfare (and even hotels). It's one of the biggest weapons in our arsenal at TPG to help save money on travel. While TPG does offer deal alerts , if you are looking for a particular flight, destination, airline or routing, Google Flights is the way to find personalized deals.

Google Flights is where I almost always begin my search for new bookings. I come back to it again and again to book trips, see if prices have dropped and check if I can get a better deal.

Now, it even shows fares for Southwest Airlines flights .

Here's everything you need to know to use and master Google Flights.

What is Google Flights?

Google Flights is one of our favorite tools for finding deals on flights. It's an amazingly powerful flight search engine, and the best part is that it's easy to use. Google shows you nearly all available flights for a search but doesn't force you to book with it.

Unlike Expedia, Orbitz, Tripadvisor or Kayak, it's not an online travel agency. Google is simply showing you what's available. Once you find the flights you like, you "click through" to actually book. You can choose to book directly with the airline or via a third-party OTA, but not Google itself.

Previously, Google Flights didn't show fares for Southwest Airlines flights, but this week, Southwest started allowing Google Flights to show what it is selling, too. This makes Google Flights even more useful.

Some other new features at Google Flights

Google has also introduced new features that suggest when prices are historically lowest and when you should book for maximum savings. Google has always shown whether the price for a suggested flight itinerary is typical, low or high, but now it gives you even more data to consider.

The tool will "let travelers know when airfares are expected to be lowest for booking their chosen dates and destination," according to Craig Ewer, who works in communications at Google.

For example, when I searched last year, Google showed me that a flight from New York to San Francisco in October was $93 cheaper than usual, and the typical range is between $245 and $415. In other words, it was a good time to book.

It gets even better: In some situations, Google will suggest alternate dates you should actually book the flight to save a few bucks. The example below shows that a December flight to Miami would have been much cheaper if I had waited to book it until Sept. 13.

Here's a final example. I apparently waited too long to book my flight home for Christmas.

Basics of Google Flights

How to perform a basic flight search.

First, you'll want to navigate to Google Flights .

The toolbar has additional features for trips, including things to do, hotels, vacation rentals and a shortcut to a cool tool called "Explore." However, we'll focus on using the tool to book flights for now.

All of the fields and drop-down menus on this page are relatively easy to decipher:

• Departure (where you want to fly from)
• Destination (where you want to fly to)
• Date(s) of travel
• Round-trip flights, one-way flights or multicity trips
• The number of passengers (but here's why you should search for a single ticket , even if you're traveling in a group)
• Ticket class: economy, premium economy, business class or first class

If you know where you're going and when you want to be there, all you have to do is plug in that information and hit the blue search button.

For example, here are all the options I see when I search for flights from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to San Francisco International Airport (SFO). You can search by destination or by airport code.

Note that Google automatically displays what it considers the best departing flights based on a combination of factors, such as price, the convenience of routing, the number of stops and the travel time. Of course, these may or may not be the best flights for you.

In this case, there are hundreds of options to choose from.

For this example, I chose to book an American Airlines flight on my outbound trip.

The cheapest option is sometimes to fly the return on a different carrier. However, Google Flights clearly indicates there will be two tickets purchased separately.

Often, Google will suggest remaining on the same carrier for both legs. In this instance, one of the flights was on JetBlue.

There are all kinds of ways to filter your searches. We'll get a bit more into that below.

Google Flights now works with Southwest Airlines

Traditionally, prices for Southwest flights didn't show up on Google Flights, but that has now changed, as you can see in the screenshot below.

Once you've found the flight you want, you have the option to book directly with the airline. Google will give you several options for the type of ticket you want to purchase, including basic economy, refundable and other types of fares.

Clicking the blue button would take me to the American Airines website , with these flights and prices already selected. There, I could enter my passenger details and loyalty number, select a seat and pay for the ticket.

All elite perks and other loyalty benefits are honored on flights booked directly on the airline website via Google Flights. However, if you are booking via a third-party site, that may not be the case. It pays to make sure you book directly with the airline if possible.

In this example, the cheapest option is for mixed tickets with multiple stops. Most people are not going to want to take that option. It involves booking through a third-party website with tickets on different airlines and multiple flights and layovers. No thanks.

Related: 9 things to consider when choosing to book via a portal vs. booking directly

Below is an example of Google Flights' handy historical price guide, which shows whether the fare you found is low, high or near the average price for flights on this route.

I can see the flights were more than $600 a few months ago, and my $423 fare was considered low. Given how expensive airfare generally is these days , I was happy enough with that.

The bottom of this screenshot also shows the options available at the bottom of each Google Flights page, where you can select your preferred language from a drop-down menu. You can also customize your location and preferred currency for easy conversion.

Search by specific times of day

Say you want to take a weekend trip. You need both flights to be outside business hours but not too late in the evening, as you don't want to land in the middle of the night.

Google Flights has a handy filter we use to make sure the flights are exactly when we want them. No matter how inexpensive that 6 a.m. flight may be, a 3:30 a.m. wake-up call rarely feels worth it.

So, you can set the search results to only show flights departing and arriving within your chosen specific time range.

See how many bags you can bring on board

In the same series of buttons below your Google Flight search, click on the "Bags" button to specify how many pieces of luggage you want to bring on board with you.

This selection may greatly limit your search results — or drive up your price options — so be prepared to change it if necessary.

Nonstop, one-stop or any flight will do?

Similarly, you can filter flights by the number of stops along the way. You might be the glutton for punishment who longs for a 50-plus-hour flight with multiple layovers. You can do that if you so desire.

However, if you want to minimize the chance of delays or disruptions, have a family to rush back to or just want a shorter flight, nonstop is your friend. Headed overseas? The usual sweet spot between price and comfort will be a one-stop flight.

Search for flights from your preferred airline or alliance

If you don't fly often, the operating airline may not matter to you as much as the price does.

However, if you've begun accumulating miles and status with a specific carrier, it can be addictive to stick with that carrier and program. The exclusive benefits of elite status can be exhilarating, and there's nothing more exciting than booking your first award flight — especially if you know you got an amazing deal.

Related: What are airline alliances, and who's in them?

With filtered airline search results, Google can help you keep that momentum going. Use the button under the search results to filter out unwanted airlines or select specific airline alliances you want to patronize. Or, turn off the "Select all airlines" option and manually select the carriers you want to choose from.

Whether booking with cash or points, you may want to stick with one program to maximize mileage earning or status. For example, if I were trying to hit Diamond on Delta Air Lines, I would search only for Delta flights.

You can also pick airline alliances like Oneworld and SkyTeam to ensure you travel on your preferred airline or its partners. In my case, I would select SkyTeam.

Connecting flights

You can also decide if you want to fly nonstop or choose how many stops you are willing to make. You can even choose the connecting airport.

Especially with international flights, some airports are better to connect in than others. Helsinki Airport (HEL) is lovely. Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) can be challenging , even if you are an experienced traveler.

Related: What are the best European airports to connect in?

If you have a range of options to travel from New York to Rome Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport (FCO) with a choice of connecting airports, you can filter the results to only show the airports you want to connect through.

You can also choose how long you would like your layover to extend. You might want to keep it short to reach your destination as quickly as possible. Or, you may prefer a long layover to allow for some buffer time in the event of delays.

Related: How to plan a free stopover on your next trip abroad

Score the best legroom and other seat amenities

Don't you hate boarding a flight to find your knees touching the back of the seat in front of you? Fortunately, Google Flights has a feature that will show you the legroom you can expect on your next flight before you have purchased the seat.

Legroom can differ noticeably from carrier to carrier, aircraft type to aircraft type. From the search results below, you can see that Spirit Airlines' is below the industry average at 28 inches, while JetBlue's is above average at 32 inches.

If you value legroom, this means the JetBlue option will have 4 inches more legroom than Spirit.

In coach seating terms, that's a lot.

Along with legroom, Google Flights will also indicate if Wi-Fi is scheduled to be available on your flight (and if it is free or available at a cost), if the plane has in-seat charging options, and if the flight offers entertainment like live TV or options to stream to your personal device.

On a flight longer than five hours, your devices may run out of juice. So, again, you may want to choose the product that best suits your needs rather than selecting a flight based entirely on price or carrier.

Know your emissions

With sustainability becoming an increasingly important topic in travel , Google Flights will let you know the approximate carbon emissions for your flight based on the route, aircraft type and seating classes.

Below are the search results for a flight from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Tokyo's Narita International Airport (NRT). United Airlines operates a fuel-efficient Boeing 787 on this route, which would produce a lower-than-average 734 kilograms of carbon dioxide.

However, the Singapore Airlines flight uses a less fuel-efficient (and larger) Boeing 777 aircraft that produces a higher-than-average 1,163 kilograms of carbon dioxide.

You can even filter your search results only to show lower-emissions flight options.

How to search by cheapest dates

Let's say I want to get from JFK to LAX in September, but I'm not tied to any specific dates. Google Flights can help me find the best possible prices for that trip.

On the search page, I can see the lowest price for that particular day if I click on the calendar icon. Prices listed in green represent the lowest price available across all current dates, while the days highlighted in blue show which dates I've selected.

Another way to view the cheapest dates is to click the date grid option. This will again show the cheapest dates in green, and you can easily line up different outbound and inbound options to see if the cheapest dates work for you.

You'll often find that the cheapest flight isn't necessarily the best or most convenient route. Google will show you those lowest prices but prioritize better routes before it.

In this example, Google Flights prioritizes slightly higher fares as the "best flights" search results because they include a full-size carry-on bag.

How to set a pricing alert for yourself

After all that diligent work, give yourself a pat on the back. You've likely found the best option for you.

Some people are ready to book immediately, but most of us might need a day or two to solidify our plans with our fellow travelers or with work. Never fear: Google will help you track your flight and even tell you when the price goes up or down.

Immediately above your search results, a little toggle reads "Track prices" (boxed in green in the screenshot above).

Click on that — and log in to your Google account if necessary — and Google Flights will send updated pricing alerts directly into your inbox.

If you have booked a refundable or changeable fare, you may want to switch this on even after you've booked. You will be alerted if the price goes up or down, so you can feel comfortable knowing you are getting the best deal. You can see part of my list of flights I'm currently tracking in the screenshot below.

Related: How to avoid airline change and cancellation fees

How to search multiple airports at once

Sometimes, you're willing to land or depart a bit farther away in order to find a better flight deal. Google Flights can help reward that flexibility. In fact, you can enter as many as five departure or arrival airports on Google Flights.

Let's say you live in New York City, where you have three major airports from which to choose. You want to fly to Southern California, which is easily accessible from multiple airports as well.

There are two ways to run this search:

• Type in your city name and let Google offer suggestions: This works for many major metro areas. As soon as I type in New York, I see several of the major airports: Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), LaGuardia Airport (LGA) and JFK. Sometimes, you'll even see New York Stewart International Airport (SWF) in Newburgh, about 60 miles north of Manhattan, as an option.
• Manually type in your airport codes or names : Some cities won't show you all the logical potential airports. For Southern California, you will have to manually type in the names or codes of each airport in the area for some searches. (Don't forget San Diego International Airport [SAN] as a potential option.)

You can open a separate browser tab and look up local airports by name. Or, if you're a pro and know the codes, you can type them directly into the destination airport search field (i.e., LAX, SNA, BUR, ONT). Then, hit the blue check to run the search.

Voila: The cheapest option for March 18-25 is taking a nonstop, round-trip flight from EWR to LAX for $258 in United basic economy.

How to check for carry-on bag policies

I don't care what anyone says: Low-cost carriers can be fantastic for finding great deals.

However, if you're a heavy packer, you'll need to plan ahead. Many airlines cut costs by charging extra for bags. You're used to this with major airlines, but some ultra-low-cost airlines will even charge you for carry-ons larger than a backpack or a purse .

It can be difficult to track which airlines charge what, but Google Flights can also help with that.

Basic economy flights will show on the search results page, with the little "no luggage" icon next to the $247 price tag in green.

When I click through to the final booking page, Google will remind me again that I'm booking a basic economy flight; it'll show my current price and its limitations while also displaying economy and first-class booking options next to it.

Organize your travel

There's a "Travel" button on the toolbar of Google Flights.

It will display the travel you have already booked. When you click on the trip, it neatly shows travel booked through your Google account, such as those reservation emails sent to a Gmail account.

It will also show "potential trips." This is where you may have been searching Google Flights for a particular destination but have not yet bought the ticket. Additionally, it will provide suggestions based on what destinations you've Googled in general.

Perhaps you have searched for " When is the best time to visit Hawaii ?" Google Flights may show you suggestions to help you continue planning that trip.

Finally, the "Travel" button will suggest trips you might consider taking based on upcoming trips you have booked or trips you've taken in the past.

For example, if you've been to Melbourne, Australia, it may show options to visit Sydney.

Related: The best ways to use points and miles to fly from the US to Australia

How to find the best getaway deal

This function is similar to the previous tip but focuses on another aspect of your search. Start by clicking the "Explore" button on the toolbar.

If you know you want to get away on specific dates — let's say the second week of October — but don't have a specific destination in mind, use Google's open-ended search functionality to find good flight deals within your window of availability.

In the example below, I picked a long weekend in October and set my hometown of New York as my departure airport. Instead of specifying a destination, I just left it open-ended. You can give Google a hint by typing "Europe" or "Caribbean" to narrow your search results to a specific region.

Related: 9 awesome features you didn't know about in Google Flights

If I zoom in closer on the map, the system recalibrates and shows me more destinations and price points within the updated map view.

If I zoom way out for a world view, I'll see the best-priced destinations of note across the globe.

I can also force the algorithm to show me price points for a specific region.

For example, the world map above doesn't show me many deals for Australia, South America or Africa. However, if I zoom in on Africa, I see more than half a dozen options on the continent and more than a dozen in "surrounding" areas.

Related: Safaris, cities and lots of elephants: How I returned to South Africa using points, miles and cash

Bottom line

Google Flights is an incredibly powerful tool the TPG team uses daily to price airfare . It can help you quickly find the best flights for your travel, but it can also track prices and let you know if you are getting a good deal. It can also help you plan trips and find hotels and activities.

It's one of my favorite tools to find deals and new places to visit. Add it to your travel toolbox. I promise it will become one of your favorites, too.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

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5 Affordable Cruise Vacations to Book — Plus How to Find the Best Deals

Here's what you need to know to save money on your next cruise.

Best Affordable Cruise Lines

How to find the best cruise deals, tips for saving money while on board.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Cruising has become increasingly popular in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. This form of travel is incredibly convenient (read: no need to pack and unpack), and everything you need can be found right on board — ultimately taking the stress out of trip planning. Plus, with hundreds of ships at sea across dozens of lines, there’s a cruise out here for every type of traveler. Fortunately, cruising doesn’t have to cost a small fortune, and many budget-conscious travelers may opt to set sail for their next trip. Below, we’ve rounded up the best cruise lines offering affordable fares coupled with value-packed inclusions to stretch your dollar further. We’ve also tapped some expert cruise specialists to share their top tips and tricks to help you save money both on and off the ship.

Here's everything you need to know to book an affordable cruise vacation.

Virgin Voyages

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

This adults-only cruise line from Richard Branson — which also happens to be a Travel + Leisure World’s Best Award winner — offers excellent value. In fact, according to T+L A-list cruise advisor and Q Cruise + Travel founder and president Rob Clabbers, Virgin Voyages fares “include more than on most mainstream large-ship cruise lines.” For example, he says, “Virgin fares include internet access, gratuities, all meals — there are no cover charges for its restaurants that on most other lines would be considered specialty restaurants.” Beverages like soft drinks, coffee, and tea are also included, as are snacks, mezze at the aft terrace, and group workout classes. Best of all, there are no pricey beverage packages. “Instead,” says Clabbers, cruisers — or, as Virgin calls them, sailors — can buy their own reasonably priced drinks (think: beers from $6, $10 cocktails, and wines by the glass under $11) a la carte. Additionally, with some promotions , the cruise line throws in a “ bar tab ” credit that can be used towards drinks.

Princess Cruises

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Another World’s Best Award winner — and WBA Hall of Fame Honoree, no less — this fan-favorite ocean line is renowned for refined ships, serene ambiance, and exceptional service. Moreover, per Clabbers, passengers can choose from “optional packages to help customize a passenger’s trip that provide savings over buying things separately.” For an extra $60 per day, consider Princess Plus, which offers perks like Wi-Fi for one device per guest, gratuities, fitness classes (two per sailing), and beverages like bottled water, specialty coffee, soft drinks, and juice. Alternatively, for $80 per day, passengers can spring on the Princess Premier package, which features the same beverages plus specialty dining (two per sailing), unlimited fitness classes, premium desserts, reserved theater seating, and Wi-Fi (four devices per guest).

Norwegian Cruise Line 

Norwegian Cruise Line is a favorite among families of all ages for its over-the-top entertainment and activities (think: go-karting, Broadway-caliber productions, and so on). “While Norwegian Cruise Line may price slightly higher than some of its competitors, you need to consider the Free at Sea package,” says travel advisor Jennifer Travis of Marvelous Mouse Travels . She goes on to describe the promotion as a “game-changer when it comes to cruising” since it includes perks like a “free open bar (up to $1,400 in savings), free specialty dining (up to $180 in savings), free Wi-Fi (up to $200 in savings), and a $50 discount on excursions.” Other Free at Sea perks include 70 percent off second guests, free third and fourth guests (on select dates), and free airfare (per the cruise line’s website: “ Pay airfare for one guest, and you'll automatically lock in roundtrip flights for two ”). Also, you can’t go wrong with the Free at Sea Plus package, which includes a wider selection of beverages, more specialty dining, unlimited Wi-Fi, and additional shore excursion credits. Before booking, be sure to check the line’s full selection of deals , which run the gamut from half-off deposits to $150 cruise credits and more.

Royal Caribbean

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Zip lines, water slides, surfing simulators, ice skating, rock climbing walls: Find all this and more aboard (most) Royal Caribbean ships — and, best of all, they’re complimentary! Ideal for fun- and adventure-loving travelers of all ages — read: kids and kids-at-heart alike — it’s pretty much impossible to be bored while cruising on this World’s Best Award-winning mega-ship line . Additionally, according to Travis, Royal Caribbean “offers some of the best short itineraries,” some of which clock in at under $200 per person for two-night sailings. Longer itineraries, including a seven-night Bahamas sailing aboard one of the line’s newest ships, Odyssey of the Seas , clock in at under $600 per person. The line also offers an abundance of deals , including up to $600 off sailings, 60 percent off second guests, and more.

Carnival Cruise Line 

Courtesy of Carnival Cruises

“ Carnival Cruise Line is known for its competitive pricing without cutting back on the onboard activities or various dining options, thus making them an attractive option to budget-conscious cruisers,” explains Travis. For example, many itineraries, including a four-night Bahamas cruise from Miami , clock in at just over $150 per person. Additionally, says the travel advisor, “Carnival sails to a wide variety of destinations from so many local ports that you almost do not need to fly to your cruise ship anymore, which is another huge savings given the cost (and stress) flights can add to any vacation.” Keep an eye out for frequent flash sales for even more savings.

Booking early is an easy way to save on your next cruise vacation . “Typically,” says Travis, “the best pricing on a cruise is when the schedule is first released.” And, while you could wait for a last-minute deal, “you may not get the room category that you want.” Similarly, Clabbers says that flexibility is key when it comes to finding — and scoring — the best cruise deals . For example, he previously told T+L that if you are “very flexible and are looking for a standard room on a large ship on an itinerary that repeats week after week, you are more likely to find a promotional fare.”

Conversely, giving up some of that flexibility sometimes pays off. According to Clabbers, select cruise lines will offer lower fares to those who opt for a nonrefundable deposit instead of a refundable one. Finally, you may also consider cruising in shoulder season or even low season. Sure, the weather won’t be perfect, but the fewer crowds and cheaper fares more than make up for that, especially if you’re on a budget.

While your tab can quickly rack up once on board, there are several savvy ways to save money. For one, consider bringing your own booze. According to Travis, “Many cruise lines allow their guests to bring a specific amount of alcohol or nonalcoholic beverages onboard the ships, which can help save you money while you are on the ship.” Additionally, ​​Michele Benard , another travel advisor at Marvelous Mouse Travels, advises packing your own necessities from home — like Advil, Tums,  motion sickness medicine, and after-sun lotion — as opposed to buying them on board at a much higher price. You’ll also want to skip the souvenirs at the onboard gift shop, which tend to be more expensive than those you’d find in port.

Benard also recommends taking advantage of “all the free activities on the cruise ships,” which can include everything from water slides to trivia game shows. Pro tip: “Stay onboard during a port day, and the lines won’t be as long.” On a similar note, spa treatments tend to be less expensive on port days, so those craving some R&R — that is, sans breaking the bank — may consider booking a service during this time.

Finally, says Clabbers, save money on your next cruise by enlisting the help of an onboard cruise consultant to select your next sailing. “You will typically receive an onboard credit or savings on your next cruise, and your own travel advisor will be alerted so they can help you plan your vacation.”

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My Best 61 Travel Tips to Make You the World’s Savviest Traveler

Most people aren’t born savvy travelers. It’s something that only comes with on-the-road experience. Travel savviness is a process born of missed buses, foolish behavior, cultural unawareness, and countless tiny errors. Then, one day, you begin to seamlessly move through airports and integrate yourself into new cultures like a fish to water.

In the beginning, you just make a lot of travel mistakes.

But I want to help speed up the process and help you avoid my mistakes ( and I often make a lot of them ), so I put together this giant list of my best travel tips that cover everything under the sun to help you reach your full travel ninja potential.

I’ve learned these tips over the last sixteen years being a nomad.

These tips for traveling will have you saving money, sleeping better, getting off the beaten path more, meeting locals, and just being a better traveler.

So, without further ado, here are the best 61 travel tips in the world:

1. Always pack a towel. It’s the key to successful galactic hitchhiking – and plain common sense. You never know when you will need it, whether it’s at the beach, on a picnic, or just to dry off after a shower. While many hostels offer towels, you never know if they will or not, and carrying a small towel won’t add that much weight to your bag.

Make sure it’s a lightweight, quick-drying towel since regular towels are too bulky and heavy (and they take a long time to dry). Dry Fox travel towels are my favorite (use the code “nomadicmatt” for 15% off your purchase)!

My favorite bag is the Flash Pack from REI . Other companies offering high-quality bags are Osprey, Nomatic, and MEC (for Canadians).

This article has more tips on finding the best travel backpack for your needs.

The same rule applies to suitcases. Don’t take a huge suitcase because they are a pain in the butt to lug around, especially if you’re traveling long term (short term, not so much). I like Level 8 suitcases. They are durable, quite spacious, nicely designed, and well-priced (luggage can be pretty damn expensive). Plus, they have a TSA lock built into the zipper. You can click here to learn more and buy one .

I also recommend packing cubes , which are essential if you’re going to be living out of a backpack for a few weeks (or months), or you just want to keep your suitcase better organized. They come in a variety of sizes, allowing you to store items big and small. They’re great for making it easy to find everything in your backpack or suitcase.

3. Pack light. Write down a list of essentials, cut it in half, and then only pack that! Plus, since you bought a small backpack like I said above, you won’t have much room for extra stuff anyways! Take half the clothes you think you will need…you won’t need as much as you think. It’s OK to wear the same t-shirt a few days in a row.

I love Unbound Merino , as their travel clothing can be worn daily for weeks without getting smelly. They are super light and they look sylish too. I really love the material, they’re comfortable, they hardly ever need a wash, and they last forever!

Click here for more packing tips .

4. But take extra socks. You’ll lose a bunch to laundry gremlins, wear and tear, and hiking so packing extra will come in handy. Take a few more than you need. Trust me on this. Nothing beats a fresh pair of socks!

Here’s a list of all my best hostels around the world . If you’re planning on backpacking Europe , it’s worth getting HostelPass , a card that gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money, and they’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and so I’m glad it finally exists. Use code NOMADICMATT for 25% off.

6. Take an extra bank card and credit card with you Disasters happen and things get stolen or compromised. I once had a card duplicated and a freeze put on it. I couldn’t use it for the rest of my trip. I was very happy I had a backup. You don’t want to be stuck somewhere new without access to your funds. This happened to a friend once and they had to borrow money for me for weeks while they waited for their new card to arrive.

Here are some helpful articles on banking:

• How to Avoid Banking Fees While Traveling
• 22 Ways to Cut Your Expenses and Have Money for Travel
• How to Pick the Best Travel Credit Card

7. Make sure to use no-fee bank cards. Don’t give banks your hard-earned money. Keep that for yourself and spend it on your travels. Get a credit card and debit card that doesn’t charge a foreign transaction fee or an ATM fee. Over the course of a long trip, the few dollars they take every time will really add up!

Here’s an article that will tell you how to do that.

8. Don’t fly direct. When booking flights, sometimes it is cheaper to fly in to airports close to your final destination, and then take a train, bus, or budget airline to where you need to go.

To use this method, find out how much it is to go directly to your destination. Then, look at prices to nearby airports. If the difference is more than $150 USD, I look to see how much it is to get from the second airport to my primary destination.

My favorite flight search engine is Skyscanner . This is my go-to website for finding cheap flights. It searches a lot of different airlines, including many of the budget carriers that larger sites miss.

Here are some more tips on finding cheap flights!

Here are some helpful articles on solo travel:

• Why I Travel Alone
• The Joy of Solo Travel
• Travel: The Ultimate Personal Development Tool
• How to Overcome Being Alone
• Reading People: One Skill Travel Has Taught Me

10. Always visit the local tourism information center. This is probably one of the most underused travel tips in the world. Tourism information centers know about everything going on in town. They can point you to free activities, special events happening during your stay, and everything in between. They even offer discounts on attractions and transportation. It is their job to help you experience the destination better. It’s amazing how many travelers skip this when they are visiting somewhere but, as a savvy traveler, you know to use this resource!

11. Take free walking tours. Besides being free, these tours will give you a good orientation and background of the city you are visiting. I love, love, love taking walking tours when I travel. You pass the time, you get to pepper the guide with questions, and you get to learn so much about where you are. Here are some of my favorite walking tour companies around the world:

• The Best Walking Tours in New York City
• The Best Walking Tours in London
• The Best Walking Tours in Paris
• The Best Walking Tours in Berlin
• The Best Walking Tours in Amsterdam

And while free walking tours are great, sometimes it’s worth it to take a paid walking tour if you’d like to dig deeper into a particular aspect of the destination. Walks is one of my favorite paid walking tour companies, offering in-depth history and cultural tours in cities around the world (especially Europe). Its small-group tours also tend to offer exclusive behind-the-scenes access you can’t get elsewhere.

For fellow foodies, Devour Food Tours has all kinds of amazing food tours around Europe.

12. Don’t be afraid to use a map. Looking like a tourist isn’t as bad as getting really lost and ending up in the wrong neighborhood. Don’t be afraid to use a map or ask for directions and look like a tourist. After all, you are one!

13. But don’t be afraid to get purposefully lost. Wandering aimlessly through a new city is a good way to get to know it, get off the beaten path, and away from the tourists. You might be surprised by the hidden gems you find. I like to wander around and try to find my way without using Google Maps. Travel is the art of discovery and you never know what cool little spot you’ll come across.

14. Ask hostel staff for information — even when you aren’t staying there. Hostel staff deal with budget travelers all day, every day. They know exactly where to go for cheap meals and attractions. They also tend to be locals so they know the city very well. Ask them for all sorts of information. Even if you aren’t staying in one, just pop in and ask for help. They’ll usually give it.

15. Sign up for flight deals. When it comes to travel, your flight(s) will likely be your biggest expense. Save money by signing up for flight deal websites. You’ll get epic flight deals straight to your inbox, saving you time and money. Also be sure to sign up for airline newsletters, since that is where they will announce their sales first. The best websites for finding travel deals are:

• Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) – The BEST for upcoming US flight deals.
• The Flight Deal – Great for global flight deals.
• Holiday Pirates – The best for European flight deals.
• Secret Flying – A great site for flight deals from around the world.

16. Don’t buy a money belt — they’re stupid. Thieves know they exist and being seen with one basically shouts, “Look at me, I’m a tourist with money! Rip me off!” The more you can blend in and act like a local, the easier it will be to get deals and avoid touts. If you’re worried about pickpockets, keep a better eye on your stuff!

17. When you go out, take only what you need. Limit the amount of cash and bank cards you carry with you when you go out, so if something does happen, you can easily recover. Never take more than one credit card or ATM card with you. My rule for cash is to limit what I carry to $50 USD.

18. Always carry a lock. Carry a small combination lock with you when you travel. They come in handy, especially when you stay in dorms. Most hostels use lockers, so budget travelers need to provide their own travel lock to keep stuff secured. While you can usually rent or buy them at hostels, it’s much cheaper just to buy one before you go. (Just don’t use one with keys because if you lose the keys, you’re screwed!)

19. Make extra copies of your passport and important documents. Don’t forget to e-mail a copy to yourself too. You never know when you might need to have some sort of documentation with you and might not want to carry your original. Additionally, if your passport gets stolen having a copy will come in handy for your police report.

20. Learn basic phrases in the native language of your destination. The locals will appreciate it and it will make your interactions easier. You don’t need to master the language but learning a few things like “Hello,” “Goodbye,” “Thank you!”, “Where’s the bathroom?” will go a long way to endearing yourself with the locals. They’ll like that you tried.

Here are some tips on how to learn a language .

Here are some posts that highlight my favorite reads:

• 13 Travel Books That Will Give You Serious Wanderlust
• The Best Travel Books
• 12 Books to Take You Around the World

22. Don’t be ashamed to walk into a Starbucks or McDonald’s. Sometimes familiarity is comforting and both places have free wifi and public restrooms you can use. (Just don’t eat the food at McDonald’s! That shit is gross and unhealthy for you! You can get it back home!). Libraries and most modern coffee shops also have free Wi-Fi too.

23. Always get behind business travelers when in security lines. They move fast since they are usually in a rush and travel light. They know the drill. Line up behind them as much as possible. You’ll speed through the line!

24. Never get behind families in airport security. They take forever. It’s not their fault. They just have a lot of stuff because of the kids. Try to avoid getting in lines with lots of kids. It’s going to take a while.

25. When you check in to the hotel, don’t be afraid to ask for an upgrade. They have a lot of flexibility when it comes to assigning upgrades at check-in. It never hurts to ask. Often times they can accommodate you if the hotel isn’t full. Just be super nice!

Note: If you stay in hotels frequently (or want to), it might be worth it to get a hotel credit card . You can earn points on your everyday spending at home and convert those points into free stays. The best cards come with status, making upgrades more likely too!

26. Write down your experiences. Even in this hyper-technological age, I think everyone needs to write more during their travels so they have something to look back on. I never leave home without a journal. Not only do I use them for work (I’m constantly taking notes and writing down ideas) but I also use them to keep track of my travels.

Simple travel journals work great for journaling during your trip as well as for writing down logistical information like directions, contact information, and language tips.

If you want a travel journal that isn’t just blank pages but rather has space for itinerary planning, places to jot notes in the local language, inspirational quotes, and more, grab our new travel journal. It was designed specifically with travelers in mind, so you can take notes as well as write down stories and reflections during your travels.

27. Lunchtime is the best time to visit historical sites. Be a contrarian. You’ll have fewer crowds getting in your way as big tour buses, groups, and most travelers head to lunch. It’s always best to visit an attraction super early, late, or when people eat. You’ll have even the most popular places to yourself!

28. Never eat in a touristy area or near a tourist attraction. As a general rule, I walk five blocks in either direction before I find a place to eat. The closer you are to tourist attractions the more you are going to pay and the worse the food (and service). Use websites like Yelp , Google Maps , or Open Rice to find some delicious and popular restaurants around you.

Additionally, never eat anywhere the menu is in like 6 languages! That means the restaurant is just for tourists!

29. Locals don’t eat out every night and neither should you. Go grocery shopping. You can learn a lot about locals’ diets by seeing the type of food they buy. Plus, it will save you a lot of money. You won’t regret it. Cook your food, save money, and surprise yourself!

30. Eat at expensive restaurants during lunch. Most expensive restaurants offer lunch specials featuring the same food they would serve for dinner but for a fraction of the cost! That’s the best time to eat out when you travel.

I share more tips on how to eat cheaply around the world here.

31. Pack a headlamp. This is a handy tool for both backpackers and anyone looking to do any hiking or camping. If you’re going to be staying in a hostel, having a headlamp is helpful when you need to check in or out but don’t want to disturb your fellow travelers by turning on the lights. They’re also helpful in emergencies.

32. Carry a basic first-aid kit. Accidents happen, so be prepared. I always take band-aids, antibacterial cream, and ointments for minor cuts and scrapes. You never know when you’re going to need it and you can’t always get it when you travel.

You can either assemble a first aid kit yourself ( here are some tips for doing so ), or purchase a pre-made kit online .

33. Don’t believe the cheap flight myths. Don’t drive yourself too crazy trying to get the absolute cheapest fare. There are a lot of myths online about how to find cheap flights, but there is no magic bullet or one secret ninja trick. It’s not cheaper to book on a particular day of the week, or if you search in an incognito window.

Spending five hours to try to save $10 will cause you a lot of stress. Once you find a flight deal that you’re happy with, book right away, as airfares change by the minute. Remember, you usually have a 24-hour window to cancel in case you need to.

Here are some article on how to save money on flights:

• 5 Steps to Booking a Cheap Flight Online
• How to Always Find a Cheap Flight
• Where I Find the Best Travel Deals

34. Use Meetup, the sharing economy, and hospitality websites to meet locals. These websites will help you get an insider’s perspective on your destination by connecting you with locals in the places you visit. The sharing economy has changed the way people travel allowing you to meet locals, get off the tourist travel, and save mega money! It’s a triple win – and I use these resources all the time when I travel.

Here’s an article on how to use the sharing economy (and what websites to use) when you travel.

35. Be open to strangers. Not everyone bites. Say hi to people on the road. Turn strangers into friends. Remember they are just like you! They want to live a happy, full life and have hopes and dreams too! You never know. You just might make some lifelong friends.

36. But keep your guard up. Some people do bite, so keep a healthy level of suspicion. You don’t want to fall for any travel scams or get yourself into uncomfortable situations. Be open but cautious. Here is a list of travel scams to avoid.

• My Favorite Restaurants in Europe
• The Best Places to Eat in NYC
• How to Eat Cheap Around the World
• 30+ Places to Eat in Tokyo
• How to Eat Around the World on a Vegan Diet

38. Avoid taxis. They are always a budget buster. Never, ever take a taxi unless you absolutely have too!

39. Take a reusable water bottle through airport security and fill it up at your gate. Single-use plastics are common in a lot of countries around the world. They’re also polluting our oceans and destroying the environment. Drink from the tap when you can — you’ll save money and help the environment. If you’re going somewhere where you can’t drink the water, be sure to get a water bottle with a filter. I love Lifestraw .

40. Get city attraction cards. If you are going to visit a lot of museums and other attractions in a short period of time, a city pass is going to save you money on admission (plus most provide free public transportation too!).

41. Take pictures of your luggage and clothes. If your bag gets lost, this will help identify it more easily and speed up the process of having your travel insurance reimburse you.

42. Carry emergency cash. Because emergencies happen, like that time in Romania when I couldn’t find an ATM and needed money for the bus to the hostel. I usually try to keep around $200 USD in emergency cash in case something happens!

43. Get good shoes. You walk a lot when you travel. Don’t beat up your feet. Love them as much as they love you, and they’ll take you to amazing places.

My favorite shoes for traveling are Suavs shoes , which are versatile and durable. They’re comfortable and great for exploring a new city all day, but also look nice enough that you can dress them up if you want to at night.

44. Get vaccinated. Because falling prey to an illness in a foreign country is not fun — and many countries require you to get vaccinated in order to visit them. So regardless of your opinion on the subject, you just might have to.

Here is an article on how to stay healthy on the road.

45. Learn to haggle. Haggling is a fun, playful way of not getting charged the foreigner price. It’s the art of negotiating and one that will help you throughout all of life, not just at the market.

Here are some articles to help you get started with using points and miles:

• Points and Miles 101: A Beginner’s Guide
• How I Earn 1 Million Frequent Flier Miles Every Year
• The Best Travel Credit Cards
• The Ultimate Guide to Picking the Best Travel Credit Card

47. Take a jacket. Nights get chilly.

48. Eat street food! If you skip the street food, you miss out on culture . Don’t be scared. If you’re nervous, look for places where kids are eating. If it’s safe for them, it’s safe for you.

49. Get travel insurance. Travel insurance is the most important thing to get that you never want to use. If something goes wrong, you don’t want to be out thousands of dollars in bills. Travel insurance will be there if you get robbed, flights get canceled, you get sick or injured, or have to be sent home. It’s comprehensive and, for just a few dollars a day, one of the best investments you can get for a trip.

You may think you’re superman/woman but so did my friend who broke her arm, didn’t have insurance, and had to pay thousands out of pocket. Insurance was there when I had to replace my camera and when I popped an eardrum scuba diving! Get it! Here are some tips on how to find the best travel insurance.

My favorite companies are:

• SafetyWing – A budget-friendly choice for travelers who need basic coverage. They are affordable, have great customer service, and make it easy to make a claim. If you’re on a tight budget, go with SafetyWing!
• Insure My Trip – The best insurance for those over 70 years old.
• Medjet – This is a membership program that provides emergency evacuation coverage should you get into a dire situation while traveling and be hospitalized. Medjet is meant to supplement your regular travel insurance.

50. Be patient. Things will work out in the end. No need to rush. You’ll get to where you are going in due time. Travel is about the journey, not the destination.

51. Be respectful. Locals are willing to help you out, but there’s probably a language barrier, so keep your cool when something doesn’t go your way. If you don’t, you’ll end up just looking like an asshole tourist.

52. Don’t over plan your trip. Let your days unfold naturally. Schedule two or three things and let the day fill in the rest on its own. It’s less stressful, and letting the day just take you is one of the best ways to travel. Here’s my advice on how not to over plan your travels!

53. Relax. See Be patient .

54. Be frugal — but not cheap. Don’t be pennywise but pound-foolish. Look for deals and don’t waste money, but don’t miss out on great experiences or walk 10 miles to save a couple of dollars. Time is money. Spend them both wisely.

55. Take earplugs. Anyone who has ever stayed in a hostel knows that earplugs are a necessity. Snorers are everywhere and you need your sleep.

But even if you’re not going to be in a hostel, they’re still helpful for sleeping well if your accommodation is located on a busy street, or for sleeping in buses, overnight trains, and other types of transportation. A good night’s sleep is priceless — be prepared!

These earplugs are reusable and work much better than the cheap foam ones, blocking out any distracting noises.

56. Always carry a power bank. Batteries die. Your good mood shouldn’t.

We all travel with numerous electronic devices like phones and tablets, but it can be hard to keep them all charged. An external battery solves that problem.

57. Remember that you’re not alone even if you’re traveling solo. Traveling alone never means you’re really alone. Wherever you go, there is a network of travelers who will be your friends, give you advice or tips, and help you out. They will guide you, point you in the right direction, and be your mentors. You aren’t out there on your own. You’ll make lots of friends and tons of memories.

If you’re not sure about traveling on your own for the first time, you can always join a group tour, such as those we offer at The Nomadic Network . I’ve designed all the itineraries myself to ensure they cover the highlights, get you off the tourist trail, and connect you with friends and locals.

59. Pre-book your tickets to attractions, activities, and excursions online. If you’re planning to do any activities or excursions on your trip, book them online. Companies usually offer a discounted price when compared to buying in person. Not only that but you’ll be able to pay with a credit card, giving you some extra protection as well as more travel points!

Many major attractions also allow you to reserve your spot and skip the line. Always look online to see if this is an option. This will you to avoid wasting time in multi-hour lines and go right in. I’ve seen people wait hours for the Paris Catacombs, Louvre, London Churchill War Rooms, churches, temples, historic fortresses, and more. Pre-book the day before, skip the line, get to see more during your day!

Get Your Guide is my favorite place to book activities in advance. It’s a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions, with tons of options in cities all around the world, including skip-the-line attraction tickets, cooking classes, walking tours, and more!

60. Avoid TripAdvisor. TripAdvisor is fine when you need opening hours or an address, but when it comes to reviews I ignore it completely. People always leave a negative review when something bad happens but rarely leave a positive review when something good happens so the reviews tend to be skewed.

On top of that, it’s very easy to create fake reviews and make a place seem better than it is. Many hotels and restaurants hire firms to artificially inflate their reviews on the platform. Additionally, TripAdvisor has been known to take down reviews that are overly negative as well as reviews on sexual assault. Use TripAdvisor with caution. Or better yet, don’t use it at all.

61. Finally, wear sunscreen. For as the Baz Luhrmann song “Everybody’s Free (To Wear Sunscreen)” goes:

If I could offer you only one tip for the future, sunscreen would be it. The long-term benefits of sunscreen have been proved by scientists Whereas the rest of my advice has no basis more reliable Than my own meandering experience.

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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