tips for travelling cheap

How to travel on a budget: Here are our 22 top tips

Editor's Note

"How can I travel on a budget?" is one of the top questions we receive at TPG.

There's no question that travel is expensive right now as millions satisfy the itch to travel more. Demand has been through the roof. Inflation and correspondingly high hotel, rental car and airline ticket costs have many would-be travelers throwing up their hands in frustration.

However, there are still many ways to save. In addition to using reserves of points and miles to book hotels and airfare, TPGers have many budget travel tips to help stretch your dollars when traveling.

Here are 22 ways to travel on a budget.

Use membership codes to save on car rentals

If you're a member of AAA or AARP, have a Costco membership, are a veteran or work for a large company with a car rental discount code, pull all of these levers. You might be eligible for discount codes you didn't even know about. A few examples from AARP include 30% off a car rental at Budget or Avis.

Related: How to never pay full price for a rental car

Look beyond traditional car rental companies and locations

Most people search for rentals at the airport with standard companies like Hertz and Avis. If you don't find good results, consider off-airport locations or try alternatives like Kyte , Turo and Silvercar.

Related: Delta and Turo launch partnership, allowing travelers to earn 2,000 SkyMiles on 1st rental

Check credit card merchant offers

Before booking your trip, review your credit cards' special merchant offers. Multiple issuers offer this option (although American Express is a leader in the category).

Every program works similarly: Log in to your card account online or through your banking app, review the offers available to you, add the ones you want and make a qualifying purchase using the card for which the offer is registered.

There are no promo codes to enter at online checkout or coupons to print to take to the register. There are likely offers you can activate that will provide discounts on dining, gas and entertainment.

Related: How credit card merchant offers can save you hundreds of dollars every year

Take advantage of free days at national parks

Every year the U.S. National Park Service sets aside several days when entry is completely free ; options include Martin Luther King Jr. Day in January, the first day of National Park Week in April, National Public Lands Day in September and Veterans Day in November.

Visiting a national park on one of the NPS' free-entry days can save you up to $35 per vehicle at some of the most popular national parks, such as Glacier National Park and the Grand Canyon .

Stay outside the national parks

You might dream of a night in a rustic cabin inside a national park, but getting that reservation could be challenging or costly — especially if you can't pay for it with points.

However, just beyond the park, there's probably a hotel you can book with points. For example, you could stay at the Holiday Inn in West Yellowstone with IHG One Rewards points; the SpringHill Suites just outside of Zion National Park is a great property if you have Marriott Bonvoy points to spend.

Related: The best campgrounds, hotels and lodges near Yellowstone National Park

Download the T-Mobile Tuesdays app

If you're a T-Mobile user, you're in luck: This app is a major perk that will put money in your pocket just for checking your phone on Tuesdays.

To participate, download the T-Mobile Tuesdays app , check the app on Tuesday and claim your discount code. We've seen weekly discounts on everything from rental cars to gas, hotels and theme park tickets.

Related: T-Mobile expands travel-focused 'Coverage Beyond' benefits

Get discounted gas at Shell through the Fuel Rewards app

At TPG, we love to stack savings. The Shell Fuel Rewards app is a good one to pile on the discounts.

You can link it to other loyalty programs — including American Airlines AAdvantage, Giant Food, Stop & Shop, Advance Auto and more — to receive extra discounts. Also, if you purchase through Fuel Rewards, link to partner retailers such as Petco, Bed Bath & Beyond, Office Depot/OfficeMax and many others to save even more.

Don't forget to use a credit card that gives bonus points or discounts at gas stations for even more savings. TPG likes the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express , which gives 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations (cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout).

Related: These are the best credit cards for gas purchases

Save on theater tickets in New York and London

Check TodayTix for cheap Broadway and West End tickets if traveling to New York City or London.

The TodayTix app has discounted tickets to various shows available. Prices vary, but most of the top shows currently playing are available on the site and the app.

While not all shows are hugely discounted, TodayTix often runs no-fee promotions. Keep in mind that for some shows, you won't be able to choose your precise ticket location. Instead, you will pick a section you'd like to sit in.

Related: On with the show! How to get a great deal on Broadway tickets

Save on entrance fees with Bank of America

Bank of America cardholders can enjoy free general admission to more than 225 cultural institutions in dozens of U.S. cities on the first weekend of every month just by showing their cards. It's through the Museums on Us program that's been going on for 25 years. It's open to Bank of America, Merrill and Bank of America Private Bank (U.S. Trust) credit or debit card holders.

Related: 5 reasons to get the Bank of America Premium Rewards credit card

Use your library card for museum entry

Another way to get free museum admission is with a library "lending ticket" — a program where libraries will lend museum passes for a set amount of time.

Also, check if your local museum's membership comes with ROAM (a reciprocity program across North America). It's an easy way to get maximum value from a regional (and usually less expensive) membership.

Take a free walking tour

Sign up for a free walking tour on your first day in a new city. It's an inexpensive way to learn about the city and orient yourself.

Look online for options before traveling and sign up in advance if necessary. Then, all you need to do is show up with comfortable shoes and enjoy your free tour.

Although tipping is suggested, you'll spend much less, even after generously tipping your guide, than you would with a standard tour option. You will likely also meet other like-minded travelers, which can be welcome if you're traveling alone or looking to make new friends.

If you're interested in seeing what's available on your next trip, Google the city you'll visit and the phrase "free walking tour" to see what comes up.

Dine on the cheap with Seated

Here's a fun one: The Seated app allows you to dine out and get paid for it.

The app rewards diners who sign up and eat at designated restaurants with cash they can redeem through gift cards. All you have to do is let the app know you'll be dining at a location before you take a seat. You can also get gift cards for Uber, Amazon and Starbucks.

Fly on weekdays

Flexibility on which days you fly is one of the keys to getting the best airfare prices. Leisure travelers most commonly book weekend flights, while many business travelers fly on Monday. So, the midweek days — Tuesday and Wednesday — have lower demand and are often the best days to travel for lower prices.

Related: When is the best time to book airfare?

Book vacation packages

Airlines that bundle airfare and hotels as vacation packages can offer better deals thanks to their vast buying power and inventory. These bundles can offer savings of up to 40% off. Savings on business-class plane tickets and high-end hotels can offer some of the best deals.

Also, purchasing directly from the airline gives you a one-stop shopping experience. You can even add a car and activities to your trip at the same time. Plus, you'll often be able to take advantage of special sales and bonus points and miles offers.

Related: Everything you need to know about saving money with vacation packages

Use a price monitoring tool

Airline fare monitoring sites such as Hopper and Google Flights ensure you get notifications when your trip's best and lowest prices become available. Set up as many combinations as you're considering, including different departure and return dates, so that you can get alerts for all possible fare reductions.

Be flexible on destination

If you're not locked into a fall or winter vacation location (like you would be for a destination wedding or family reunion that you can't change), try an alternative to find better prices. For example, consider subbing Quebec City in for Paris if you want Old World charm. For scuba diving enthusiasts, skip the expensive long-haul flight to Australia and the Great Barrier Reef and instead head to the second-largest barrier reef in the world in easy-to-access Belize.

Related: 5 key tools and tips for cheap airfare

Hold your deal

If you see a great deal but are not yet ready to book, hold it . For example, Hopper's Price Freeze allows you to lock in the price of a flight for up to seven days to take more time to finalize plans before you book. Some airlines will also let you hold flights for a small fee. (Remember that all U.S. airlines, by law, allow you to hold and cancel a flight booking within 24 hours without penalty as long as you book more than seven days in advance.)

Re-price your flights and hotels

As long as you've booked a hotel, car or flight that can be canceled without penalty, you should make it part of your weekly routine to check for price drops. If you find a lower price, rebook. You can use these same rebooking strategies with points to make dynamic pricing work in your favor for hotel stays so you can save on award nights.

Related: How I saved 33,500 points on upcoming hotel stays

Consider alternative airports

With prices high, now is the time to be flexible and check all nearby airports. For example, Houston and Chicago have two airports, while the New York City area has three, including Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New Jersey . In Southern Florida, you could easily fly to West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale or Miami. It works internationally too: Try Gatwick Airport (LGW) instead of Heathrow Airport (LHR) when flying to London.

It may even make sense to get to one city by flying to another city and then taking a short train ride for the rest of the journey. For instance, you could fly into Philadelphia and catch a train to New York. Strategies like this can help you get to your destination on a flight with better pricing or award availability.

Use positioning flights

Positioning flights are unrealistic for every situation or trip, but they can often offer better award availability or pricing than those from your home airport. Can you reach your destination for a lot less by starting in Seattle or Chicago? Would adding another flight to a different airport save you money or miles? Just ensure you leave enough time between flights to avoid unnecessary travel headaches.

Related: Use positioning flights to get amazing deals

Use points and miles when appropriate

Since you are reading TPG, you may also want to earn points or miles through your everyday spending that you can use to pay for part of your trip. Some credit cards — like the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card and the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card — can help you earn airline miles or hotel points that you can redeem directly with the airline or hotel. Cards such as the American Express® Gold Card earn transferable points you can redeem for travel or transfer to various travel partners.

If you have a stash of points and cash fares are high, it makes a lot of sense to use those points instead. For example, I recently priced a trip to San Francisco and found a flight over the Fourth of July weekend; it should normally cost about $400, but for this particular weekend, it was going to cost me at least $621. I used 46,000 Delta SkyMiles instead. While it wasn't the best redemption in the world, it was better than shelling out all that cash. Most of those SkyMiles came from credit card spending on my Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card .

Related: Why I'm keeping my Delta Reserve card even when I'm flying less

There are many strategies for getting the most out of your credit card . You'll generally get the most value when redeeming for premium-cabin flights or luxury hotel stays. However, you may prefer to book economy award flights or lower-category hotel stays using your points to stretch your points further.

You can join AARP for discounts even if you are not retired. The advocacy group for older adults offers all kinds of cool discounts, including $60 to $200 off British Airways flights and 10% off Hilton hotels.

Related: How to use AARP discounts on travel

Bottom line

Spending a small amount of time researching the best ways to travel on a budget could easily make a dream trip, like a Paris vacation, more attainable.

It's possible to take an excellent vacation on a budget. You just need to put in the time to plan your trip, budget your expenses, download a virtual wallet of money-saving apps and consider using points and miles to decrease your out-of-pocket costs.

Some of our top budget travel tips include shopping around, signing up for deal alerts through websites like TPG and using points and miles. Opening a credit card or two for the sign-up bonus once or twice every few years could make your trips even cheaper. Don't forget to sign up for our daily newsletter , where we teach you how to travel better for less. At TPG, we make traveling on a budget easy.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• The 18 best places to travel in 2023
• 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

Additional reporting by Melissa Klurman.

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

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!

Ascen Aynat

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How to Travel on a Budget for Beginners

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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 60,000 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 some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

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

No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ 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.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 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, vacation rentals 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 $250 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening - that’s equal to $1,000 in travel.

How to Travel Cheap (31 Easy Proven Ways)

Is your budget holding you back from traveling? We traveled the world for years without income or big savings. You just need to know how to travel cheap!

But don’t worry we will share all our top tips on how to travel cheap on a budget in this blog post. They are divided into 4 key areas that you can focus on to keep costs down:

• Transport 🚐
• Accommodation 🏠
• Activities 🥾

If you have nailed those down you will be able to travel the world for as long as you want! Sounds good? Let’s dive straight in!

TRANSPORT 🚐

1. travel slowly (easiest way to travel cheap).

It may seem counteractive but the easiest way to travel cheap is to travel longer and slowly. Because if you aren’t moving then you are not spending money on expensive flights, trains, and buses. Makes sense, right?

Most travelers including us come to the conclusion that it is better and cheaper to travel slowly for multiple reasons once they travel for longer:

• It saves money
• You really get to know the place
• You will make friends with locals

A good way to travel cheap and slow is to find a low-budget travel country like Mexico that has a lot to see and do. Then spend as much time as possible there.

We spent 2 years working and moving around Mexico and found that we liked to spend 1 month in each destination. That way we cut down costs on transport and accommodation big times. Plus, Mexico offers a 6-month tourist visa!

Quite often you get weekly and monthly discounts on Airbnb, sometimes you get an entire week for free when booking for 4 instead of 3 weeks!

When you stay longer in a location you also get to know the language and culture better, where the cheapest food is, and how locals live. Traveling slowly is therefore one of the key tips you can do to get more bang for your buck.

Read also: 🇲🇽 13 Reasons to visit Mexico City for First-Timers 💃 18 Awesome Free Things to do in Mexico City 🧑‍💻 13 Best Cities in Mexico for Digital Nomads

2. Use Ride Sharing Apps

Depending on where you are in the world ride-sharing apps such as BlaBlaCar can be a great way to travel cheap without a car. It’s also the cheapest way to travel by car.

How it works? If someone is driving somewhere and they have a spare seat in the car they put an ad up. The ad will show the price for the ride, the departure time, and the pick-up point. You can pay via the app or at the pick-up point.

Ride-sharing can often be faster and cheaper than public transport plus you will spend time with locals or other travelers on board.

BlaBlaCar is a great option to travel cheap in Europe and Latin America . We used it many times in Mexico and it was usually faster and more comfortable than the bus. You just have to make sure your driver is trustworthy (check the reviews) and shows up.

Another ride-sharing app you can try is Indrive which works more like Uber 👇

3. Book in Advance

This is no secret but can’t be missed on a list of how to travel cheap. If you book in advance you follow the most cost-effective way to travel. Whether it’s booking flights, buses, or trains it is usually a lot cheaper if you book ahead of time.

By booking our flights to New Zealand 8 months in advance we saved at least 500 USD per person one-way! You just have to commit and stick to it.

Our favorite transport booking sites: ✈️ K iwi.com 🚊 Trainline 🚌 Busbud 🚗 Rentalcars.com 🚐 Paulcamper 🚲 Bikesbooking.com 📲 Omio (Transport Search Engine)

4. Be Flexible with your Dates

This is one of the biggest mistakes that I have seen people make when booking flights. If you want to get cheap flight tickets then being flexible with your date is one of the biggest money-saving hacks there is!

A lot of people will decide that they are going to fly out on a certain date and only check flights for this day. But especially on long-distance flights you can save hundreds if you are flexible and also look up flights a few days before or after your desired travel date.

That’s why whenever I am searching for flights I use the flight search engines Kiwi.com or Skyscanner as they allow me to search by month. You will be shown a calendar with the price for each date. Then I choose the date that works the best for me with the best price!

How to search per month? ✈️ 1. Go to Kiwi.com or Skyscanner 2. Choose One-way or Return 3. Fill in From and To 4. Click on Departure 5. Click on the gray button above the calendar that states the month 6. Click on Set Dates and Explore and voilà you will get shown the cheapest flight days in the selected month for your destination!

👉 Try it yourself 👈

5. Be Flexible with your Destination

Being flexible with your destination is one of the best ways to travel cheap. This tip will allow you to save money by being adventurous and spontaneous.

On Kiwi.com and Skyscanner you can select “Anywhere” as your destination. If you do this for a particular date or month it will show you the cheapest places to go traveling leaving your departure city.

This way you may find some extremely cheap travel options you may not have considered. The first time I tried this I was in Copenhagen and the cheapest buses or trains to interesting destinations close by were around 80 USD.

But then I found a flight to Belgrade, Serbia for 15 USD! So I went to Belgrade and had a great time. If it wasn’t for the super cheap flight I never would have gone there. So being flexible and adventurous can be super fun and saving money at the same time.

How to search Anywhere? ✈️ 1. Go to Kiwi.com or Skyscanner 2. Choose One-way or Return 3. Fill in From 4. Type “Anywhere” in the To field 5. Select departure (you can use the monthly hack as described above!) 6. Hit Explore and voilà you will see the cheapest flight destinations for your departure city

6. Avoid Peak Season

The prices for flights and accommodation in the peak travel season of any destination often increase dramatically. So travel smart and off-seasonal!

Most travelers avoid the off-season because that’s often the “bad weather season” . But we have spent months in rainy seasons and it was way sunnier than people would expect.

Going to beach destinations outside the high season is not only cheaper but the experience is much better. There are usually far fewer people and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Particularly if you are a digital nomad there is no reason to be somewhere in peak season as you can move where and when you want. So do your research and try to travel as much as possible in low or mid seasons.

Read here: Best off-the-beaten-path destinations 🤫

7. Pack Light

Many people bring way too much luggage on their trip. But even a 2-month trip can be done with carry-on if you get creative and pack smart. Our tip is: Pack as if you would go on a 7-day trip. Just because you travel longer doesn’t mean you need more stuff or clothes.

After years of full-time traveling, we found that we don’t need much more on a 1-year trip than on a long weekend trip. Assuming you don’t go to super cold countries. Everything you haven’t used in 7 days on your trip can be removed from your luggage. Try it out!

Why? Airlines charge as much as 50 USD one-way for 1 piece of check-in luggage. We have even seen trains and buses charging for luggage. So if you take multiple trips a year saving that money per trip will help you cut down costs.

Traveling light will also free you up when moving around and put less strain on your body. Plus, without check-in luggage, you save time at the airport before and after departure.

Afraid of losing your luggage or want to insure your electronics? Check out SafetyWing travel insurance. It’s cheap! Read about our experience plus other options  here  🎒 Or calculate your fee easily here 👇

8. Change Home Country on Skyscanner

This is a tip that I discovered by accident while using Skyscanner . While in Mexico the home country of my account was set to the UK. I randomly decided to change it to Germany to see what happened and the prices all became cheaper!

You will have to play around and try different countries . But it can quite often lead to saving a bit of money which adds up and allows you to travel cheap like a pro.

How to change the country on Skyscanner? ✈️ 1. Go to Skyscanner 2. Click on the Earth symbol in the right-upper corner (next to Login) 3. Change the Country/Region and search for flights 4. Do this multiple times to compare prices 5. Optional: Play around with the Language and Currency Settings e.g. select “Spanish” and “Pesos” when looking for Mexican destinations 6. And voilà you may find the same flight 50 USD cheaper!

9. Use Incognito Mode when Booking Flights

You may have noticed that when you return to flight search engines such as Kiwi.com or Skyscanner a short time after you looked up flights there the prices have gone up!

This is because websites keep cookies when you visit the site and if you return they raise the prices on your browser. This is to make you worry that the prices will go up even further and you will buy the tickets straight away.

But if you switch to Incognito mode on Google Chrome you will find that the prices stay the same. Even better would be to use a VPN but Incognito mode helps on a basic level.

How to switch to Incognito? 🕵️‍♀️ 1. Click on the 3 vertical dots on the upper right-hand side of Google Chrome (next to your profile pic) 2. Click on “New Incognito Window” and voilá you can now go to Kiwi.com or Skyscanner and start comparing prices incognito – works on the phone too!

10. Take Cheap Public Transport

When you are in a new city it can be daunting to figure out the public transport system. Especially if you can’t speak the language. But taking taxis and Uber everywhere will get expensive very quickly in most countries.

I challenge you to take public transport at least once if it is safe. It’s the cheapest way to travel long distance and you get a better idea of what local life is like. In Latin America and Asia, a public transport ride in a city often costs less than 50 cents!

But in some areas such as Cape Town , Uber is so cheap it is by far the best and safest option, plus their public transport is terrible! So you will have to learn as you go but give public transport a go (especially to and from the airport!) whenever possible.

Read also: Best digital nomad destinations 🧑‍💻

11. Check Taxi Prices ahead of Time

If you are in a new country and you can’t book an Uber it is always good to know how much a taxi should cost before stepping into one. Taxis at airports are one of the most likely places for you to be ripped off.

Ask a local or at the hostel reception how much a ride should be or google ahead of time. This will save you money but also a lot of stress, especially after a long-distance flight.

🚕 Another ride-sharing app you can try instead of a taxi is Indrive which works like Uber but you set the price 👇

ACCOMMODATION 🏠

12. stay in hostels.

My number one tip to save money particularly if you are traveling solo is to stay in a hostel. Not only are dorm beds way cheaper but you have the chance to meet fellow travelers and make friends along the way.

Some people do not like to share a room with strangers and I won’t lie you will have to sacrifice some comforts. It is also highly likely you will have someone snoring next to you. But some of my greatest travel memories came from staying in hostels!

Also if you are traveling with someone else, a lot of hostels have private rooms that are often cheaper than hotels. Sometimes they are even cheaper than two bunk beds in a dorm. So depending on the hostel they can be a cheap way to travel as a couple.

We book most our hostel stays on Hostelworld 👇

13. Check Multiple Booking Sites

I have always found that when booking accommodation prices can vary quite drastically between booking sites. So when trying to book a cheap hotel or a guest room, always check multiple sites including their own website!

For booking hostels I recommend Hostelworld and Booking.com . Sometimes it is cheaper on one or the other. Sometimes Booking.com will also have private rooms to rent in people’s homes, similar to Airbnb but cheaper.

Our favorite accommodation booking sites: 😴 Booking.com (Hotels) 🛌 Hostelworld (Hostels) 🏠 Airbnb (Private rooms) 🌎 Expedia (Search Engine) 🌎 Agoda (Search Engine) 🌎 Trip.com (Search Engine) 🌎 Tripadvisor (Search Engine)

14. Use Airbnb right

Airbnb is one of the most used booking sites for finding a room or a whole place to stay. But if you don’t use it right it can quickly burn a hole in your wallet. We have 2 hacks we always use to find the cheapest price:

Always check and compare how much your stay would be if you booked for 1, 2 or 4 weeks instead of 5 or 10 nights for example. That way we got once 92% off! No kidding. In Antigua, Guatemala our Airbnb would have cost about 45 USD a night but since we booked for a month we got it for 120 USD in total!

That’s an incredible example and doesn’t happen often but almost every time we booked 1, 2 or 4 weeks instead of less we got up to 1 week stay for free! That’s because most hosts give weekly and monthly discounts . Off-season that can easily be up to 50%! Stays under 1 week are mostly the most expensive stays, so always try to round up.

When looking for the cheapest options use the Airbnb integrated map. But make sure you filter for the price , for example, max 30 USD a night. That will drastically reduce the search results and show only the cheapest accommodations.

You can play around with the price depending on the destination. Go for the lowest possible price per night and work your way up. We found that if you look on the map without this filter the cheapest places are often hidden by the more expensive ones and don’t even show up!

Extra Tip: Make sure you book an Airbnb with kitchen access so you can cook your own food and make a coffee – that will reduce your spending big times!

Read also: Cheap & healthy food hacks for travelers 🥑🤫

15. Do Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a great option to get free accommodation if you are interested in meeting locals and don’t mind sharing a space with another person.

On the Couchsurfing website hosts will offer to sleep at their place for free . This will often be a couch, a mattress, or a spare bed. No strings attached!

But it is considered good manners to do something nice in return to the host like cook them some food or cover a drink but this is totally optional.

I used Couchsurfing in Norway as all accommodation prices were super expensive and it ended up being a great experience . So I can highly recommend it!

Read also: 5 Ways to get free accommodation 🏠

16. Volunteer on Workaway

Workaway is an online platform where you can get free accommodation in exchange for volunteer work. That can be farm work, animal care, hostel work, gardening, etc.

The accommodation can vary from a bed in a dorm room to your own studio with its own kitchen. But you will find all the details in the host’s ad.

We used this platform to travel around Mexico for several months and not pay for accommodation once. We would spend a minimum of 1 month with each host doing babysitting, artwork, and helping with rental properties and tours.

Workaway enables you to travel for free and get paid occasionally! Its main intention is to work without payment in exchange for a place to sleep but we earned some pocket money by doing extra work for our hosts. Try it out!

Read also: How to secure a gig on Workaway 💪

17. Do Pet sitting (Our Favorite Way to Travel Cheap!)

If you love pets then pet sitting is a great way to get free accommodation . In return for looking after the owner’s pets, you will get to stay at their house while they are away.

Of course, you should only do this if you love pets! The hosts are putting their trust in you so you should only apply if you truly like spending time with animals. Plus it can be quite a lot of work depending on the sit. But is also fun and rewarding, we love it.

There are several sites where homeowners look for pet sitters including Facebook. But after trying a few we found TrustedHouseSitters to be the best! No matter if you are traveling solo, as a couple or family, or with your own pet you will find a sit.

We find pet sitting is perfect for digital nomads who are looking for how to travel cheap on a budget. Through TrustedHouseSitters, we have had the chance to stay in amazing homes around the world for free: Caribbean, Mexico, Spain, London – just to name a few!

Sign up to Trusted House Sitters via this link for free + use code HAPPYHEALTHYNOMADS at checkout for a 25% discount on your yearly membership! 🐶 Read about our experiences here.

18. Use Facebook Marketplace

In any countries around the world like Latin America looking into Facebook groups can be a good place to find cheap accommodation, particularly for long-term rentals.

While in Mexico we saw that many people listed their properties for rent on Facebook marketplace. They were much cheaper than Airbnb as long as you want to stay long-term.

Facebook groups are also a great place to look for tips and advice when moving to a new city. If you are a digital nomad looking up the local Facebook page of a city is a helpful place to find the best areas to live, food tips, doctors and connect with other newbies.

Overall Facebook can be a great way to enrich your travel experience and allow you to travel cheap if you use it in the right way.

Want to share a meal with locals? Check out Eatwith where locals host a traditional meal in their home 🍽️ Not as cheap as cooking yourself but an experience 👇

19. Cook on the Road

Enjoying the local cuisines is one of the best parts of traveling. But in most countries, you are going to save a lot of money by cooking your meals at home rather than eating out.

When we are looking for accommodation even if it is just for a few days we always make sure there is a kitchen to use. Then once we arrive we ask around and find out where the cheapest supermarket or local market is and load up on groceries.

Not only does this save you money but it ensures that you can cook fresh & healthy. Whereas if you are eating out it can be a lot harder to find healthy meals for a good price.

Tip: Master a few dishes, for example, a simple lentil pot with ingredients that are found everywhere in the world and don’t take too long. We always travel with a small bag of curry powder so we can cook a tasty meal no matter where we are.

Read also: 10 Easy Hacks to Eat Healthy & Cheap while Traveling 🥑

20. Make Coffee at Home

When I first started traveling I would always go out and grab a couple of coffees a day. But soon I realized that the cost of buying them daily quickly adds up . Plus, the coffee often wasn’t even that good and takeaway isn’t sustainable.

Now I always make coffee in the morning wherever I am staying. I only head out to a cafe on special occasions or if I need a place to work. This way I enjoy it much more and save a bunch of money.

Also if you want to travel cheap stay away from Starbucks! Their coffees are expensive and not that great. If you are going out for coffee while traveling head to a local cafe , try some locally grown beans, and enjoy every sip.

We learned all about coffee in Latin America : 🧑‍🌾 From Tree to Cup: This is how Coffee is made! ☕️ 12 Best Cafes in Laureles, Medellin ☕️ 14 Best Cafes in Antigua, Guatemala 💛 Do you like our tips? Say thanks with a coffee here!

21. Travel with a Reusable Water Bottle (Sustainable Way to Travel Cheap)

This tip is both a sustainability tip and a money-saving tip. So often when I am traveling I see people buying multiple bottles of plastic water daily. Not only is this adding insane amounts of plastic waste into landfills but the cost adds up over time.

We always travel with reusable bottles that we fill up at our accommodation and carry with us. This is a cost-effective way to travel and you are being eco-friendly at the same time.

Tip: Get a 1l-water bottle from Nalgene . We always travel with one. They are cheap, durable, lightweight, and easy to carry on hikes 👌

22. Stay Away from Touristy Restaurants

The areas with the most tourists have generally the most expensive restaurants. The food is often also not that good and other tourists will surround you.

You will find that food prices drop dramatically by walking a couple of blocks away from the main tourist area. Look for places that are full of locals as they generally know where the best food is.

Also, don’t be afraid of street food! When people first go traveling they often stay away from it because they are afraid of getting sick. But street food is super cheap and delicious! Also in my experience, you are more likely to get sick in restaurants than from street food.

At street food stalls you can at least have a close look at the food storage and preparation method. Often you can watch them cook! Plus it’s the most authentic local experience you can get for a really cheap price.

Read also: Best cheap foodie destinations 🌮

23. Look for Free Breakfasts

When booking hostels it can often work out cheaper to book a hostel that is slightly more expensive if it comes with a free breakfast and coffee. It’s a cheap way to vacation.

Another bonus is that you save time by not having to make breakfast or end up spending a lot of money on it. Plus you get the opportunity to meet other travelers and may end up spending the whole day with them.

The only downside is that free breakfasts are usually made of super cheap unhealthy ingredients so make sure to fuel yourself the rest of the day with healthy food!

How to find free breakfasts? 🍳 1. Go to your booking site of preference e.g. Hostelworld 2. Choose your destination, dates and hit Search 3. Click on Filter and “Free Breakfast” 4. Voilá you will see all places with free breakfast

Try it yourself 👇

24. Bring Fruit & Nuts as Snacks

One of the hardest things to do on a long bus trip or while waiting at the airport is to resist buying snacks . Not only are they unhealthy but also expensive.

So avoid this money trap by planning ahead . We always bring local fruits, nuts and protein bars on our trip. And never ever buy food or drinks on airplanes!

It is a cheap way to travel and is far better for your health. Eating healthy while traveling can be a struggle but adding healthy snacks will make a big difference.

Read here: Tips for cheap healthy snacks 🍎

ACTIVITIES 🥾

25. google free things to do.

When I visit a new city I will always google free things to do there. Someone will have written a blog post (like us! ;)) about free things to do in nearly every touristy place around the world. They can have some awesome ideas that are totally free.

Another good idea is to google free events in the city you are in. There can often be festivals or cultural events that are free to visit and will make you feel like a local.

See here: All Free-Things-to-do articles we have written ✌️

26. Visit Museums Cheap or for Free

In a lot of countries, museums will have certain days when they are free to visit, often on Sundays. Just look up their website and go for free where possible. This way we have saved quite some money without missing out on cultural highlights.

If you are a student, always make sure to bring your student pass with you. Many museums offer university discounts making it a great way to travel cheap as a student.

In big cities, like Chicago , London, or New York it can often be worth it to get city passes that give you discounts on many attractions and save you time queuing. Sometimes you may get as much as 50% off admission!

Our favorite ticket websites : 🎟️ GetYourGuide (entries) 🎟️ Tiqets (attractions) 🎟️ GoCity (passes) 🎟️ Ticketmaster (events)

27. Join Free Walking Tours

Free walking tours are available in most major cities around the world. They are often hosted by a local guide who can give a brief history of the place and interesting facts.

I have done an uncountable number of free walking tours worldwide and besides one or two I found them to be a great and cheap way of getting to know a new place.

While they are not really free as the guides work for tips it is up to you how much you tip. So those on a bigger budget can choose to tip more, and if you are strapped for cash, you can tip less.

Our favorite tour guide sites: 🤠 Google “Free Walking Tour + City you are in” 🤠 GetYourGuide 🤠 Viator

28. Go on Self-Guided Walking Tours

One of my favorite things to do when I arrive in a new place is to just go for a walk without any destination in mind. A good idea is to google a few nice areas and download them on Google Maps offline before starting to walk.

That way you will discover interesting parts of the city you would never have seen if you had just stuck to the main tourist attractions. Plus it’s completely free!

Our favorite self-guided sites: 🗺️ Google Maps (works offline) 🗺️ Maps.me (works offline) 🎧 WeGoTrip (Audio Tours)

29. Avoid Pricey Tours

Try to avoid organized tours when going to major tourist attractions . Frequently I see overpriced tours offered that don’t include little more than transport.

So often it is so much cheaper to take public transport to the attraction yourself. Plus you can take your time at the sites and not have to rush or stick to the schedule of the tour.

Of course in some situations, tours can work out to be cheaper or better, especially as a solo traveler. But it always pays to compare the price of a tour vs doing it on your own.

Our favorite tour websites: 🤠 Viator 🤠 GetYourGuide 🤠 Tripadvisor

30. Go Hiking (Healthy Way to Travel Cheap)

Going for a hike is an activity that is mostly free and has the added benefit of staying in shape and getting into nature. It is easy to get stuck in big cities while traveling.

Especially as a digital nomad you may be living in exotic locations but glued to your laptop all day. Hiking is a good way to escape the city and your laptop and see more of the natural beauty of a country.

There are plenty of free hiking sites out there that will show you hundreds of cool hikes for all fitness levels nearby. Often with trails away from tourist crowds.

Tip: In countries where safety is an issue, always make sure to check the hike reviews on the sites or on Google Maps (filter by lowest) to see if incidents on the trail have happened in the last few months. That way we stayed away from some doggy hikes in Colombia.

Our favorite free hiking sites: 🥾 AllTrails 🥾 WikiLoc See also: All hikes we have blogged about 🌎

31. Work Out for Free

While traveling it is very easy to slip out of your workout routine and become unfit. Also in many countries day passes to gyms can be very expensive.

That’s why the best idea is to learn workout routines that require no equipment and can be done anywhere. There are thousands of videos on YouTube with routines that you can follow anywhere simply with your body weight.

My favorite way to workout is to go for a run or do calisthenics as there are free calisthenics parks in almost any city in the world. It can also be a great idea to buy some cheap workout equipment you can travel with.

For example, we travel with a lightweight yoga mat , resistance bands, and a skipping rope that you can get a great workout with and easily fit inside your luggage.

Read here: Best Free Workout Tips for Travelers 💪

Now you know how to travel cheap, yeah!

Everyone has different wants and needs, especially when it comes to traveling. Someone might not want to sacrifice certain things. But even if you only incorporate a few of the tips on this list you should be able to get more bang for your buck.

So much of travel is learning by doing and finding out what works for you! I hope this list helps you save money and enables you to extend your travels so you can spend more time doing what you love 🙌

If you have any more tips on how to travel cheap let us know in the comments below! We would love to hear them.

• Guide to Free Accommodation
• How to Eat Cheap & Healthy
• How to Stay Fit on the Road
• How to Become a Petsitter

Hey there! Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. This means that if you choose to make a purchase we may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us to generate income and keep creating content for you. So we greatly appreciate your support! Thanks!

Hi, I am Allan, a travel, health and fitness fanatic from New Zealand. I'm a former lawyer who turned into a full-time nomad in 2020. For the last 4+ years I've been traveling the world. I'm always on a hunt for good food, activities on a budget and workouts on the go. I hope you find my tips helpful and get inspired to travel more!

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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…

Did you find this post helpful? I’d love you to share it for me.

I can’t do this without you.

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IT’S LOVELY TO MEET YOU

I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

I’D LOVE TO SHARE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, WE’VE GROWN A LOT SINCE THEN!

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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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• Plan Your Trip
• Budget Travel

How To Travel For Cheap: 20 Tips From A Budget Traveler

Published: December 8, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Tierney Burkey

• Travel Tips

Introduction

Traveling is an enriching experience that allows us to explore new cultures, indulge in thrilling adventures, and create unforgettable memories. However, many people often shy away from traveling due to the misconception that it requires a hefty budget. The truth is, with careful planning and a bit of creativity, anyone can embark on exciting journeys without breaking the bank.

In this article, we will delve into the world of budget travel and share 20 tips from a seasoned budget traveler to help you make the most of your trips while keeping your wallet happy. Whether you’re dreaming of strolling through the streets of Paris, trekking through the wild landscapes of South America, or relaxing on the pristine beaches of Southeast Asia, these tips will empower you to travel for cheap and make your dreams a reality.

From finding affordable accommodation and transportation options to maximizing your budget when it comes to food and activities, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and discover how to travel on a budget without compromising on the quality of your experiences.

Plan Ahead and Be Flexible

One of the best ways to travel on a budget is to plan your trip well in advance. By doing so, you can take advantage of early booking discounts, promotional deals, and cheaper flights. Research and compare prices for flights, accommodation, transportation, and activities to find the best possible deals.

Flexibility is also key when it comes to saving money on your travels. Being open to changing your travel dates or destination can often lead to significant savings. Consider traveling during off-peak seasons when prices are lower, and popular tourist destinations are less crowded. Additionally, be flexible with your choice of accommodation and transportation options, as this can make a big difference in your overall expenses.

By planning ahead and maintaining flexibility, you not only have the opportunity to save money but also open yourself up to unexpected adventures and hidden gems that you may not have discovered otherwise.

Travel During Off-Peak Seasons

Choosing to travel during off-peak seasons can be a game-changer when it comes to saving money. During peak travel periods, such as holidays and school vacations, prices for flights, accommodation, and attractions tend to skyrocket. By opting to travel during off-peak seasons, you can take advantage of lower prices and enjoy a more relaxed and authentic experience.

Off-peak travel not only allows you to save money but also gives you the opportunity to explore popular destinations without the crowds. You’ll have more flexibility in choosing accommodation, experiencing local attractions, and immersing yourself in the local culture. Additionally, you’ll often find that airlines and hotels offer special promotions and discounts during these quieter periods in order to attract more visitors.

Before planning your trip, research the peak and off-peak seasons for your desired destination. Consider visiting during the shoulder season, which is just before or after the peak season. Not only will you enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds, but you’ll also have a higher chance of scoring great deals on flights, accommodation, and activities.

Remember, traveling during off-peak seasons not only saves you money but also allows you to enjoy a more authentic and relaxed travel experience. Embrace the quieter moments and take advantage of the perks that come with traveling during the slower months.

Be Open to Different Accommodation Options

When it comes to finding affordable accommodation, it’s important to think outside the box and consider alternative options. While luxury hotels may be enticing, they can quickly eat away at your travel budget. By being open to different types of accommodation, you can discover unique and budget-friendly alternatives.

One popular option for budget travelers is staying in hostels. Hostels provide a cost-effective way to meet fellow travelers, share experiences, and save money on accommodation costs. Most hostels offer dormitory-style rooms with shared facilities, but many also provide private rooms for those who prefer more privacy.

If hostels aren’t your cup of tea, consider looking into budget hotels or guesthouses. These establishments often offer comfortable rooms at a fraction of the cost of luxury hotels. You can use online booking platforms to compare prices and read reviews to ensure that you find a budget-friendly option that meets your needs.

Another alternative to traditional accommodation is renting a vacation home or apartment. This can be particularly cost-effective if you’re traveling with a group or planning an extended stay. Platforms like Airbnb and HomeAway offer a wide range of affordable and well-equipped properties that allow you to live like a local and save money on dining out.

Lastly, consider house-sitting or volunteering opportunities. Websites like TrustedHousesitters and Workaway connect travelers with homeowners who need someone to look after their homes or help with various tasks. In exchange for your services, you get free accommodation, allowing you to save on accommodation costs while immersing yourself in a local community.

Remember, being open to different accommodation options can significantly reduce your travel expenses, allowing you to allocate more of your budget towards experiences and activities.

Consider Hostels or Budget Hotels

If you’re looking to save money on accommodation while traveling, hostels and budget hotels are excellent options to consider. They provide affordable lodging without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Hostels are particularly popular among budget travelers, as they offer communal living spaces and dormitory-style rooms. While you may be sharing a room with other travelers, it’s a great way to meet fellow adventurers and exchange tips and stories. Many hostels also provide private rooms for those who prefer more privacy.

When choosing a hostel, pay attention to reviews and ratings to ensure the facilities meet your expectations. Look for hostels that offer free amenities such as Wi-Fi, breakfast, and communal kitchens, as this can help further reduce your expenses. It’s also worth considering hostels that are centrally located, as this can save you money on transportation costs.

Alternatively, budget hotels are a good option if you prefer more privacy and comfort. While they may not have all the amenities of luxury hotels, budget hotels provide clean and comfortable rooms at a more affordable price. Look for hotels with good reviews and ratings, and compare prices to find the best deal.

When booking accommodation, it’s often beneficial to book directly through the hostel or hotel’s website. Many establishments offer special promotions or discounts for direct bookings, saving you even more money.

By considering hostels or budget hotels, you can significantly cut down your accommodation costs, allowing you to allocate more of your budget towards other travel experiences and activities.

Use Alternative Transportation Methods

Transportation expenses can quickly add up when traveling, but there are several alternative methods you can use to save money and have a unique travel experience.

One popular option is to use public transportation. Many cities and countries have efficient and affordable public transportation systems, including buses, trains, and metros. By using public transportation, you can save money on taxi fares or rental cars. Additionally, it allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and see the city from a different perspective.

If you’re traveling within a small area or a compact city, consider walking or cycling as your primary mode of transportation. Not only is this a cost-effective option, but it also allows you to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems that you may have missed otherwise.

For longer distances, consider taking overnight buses or trains. This way, you can save money on both transportation and accommodation. Opting for overnight travel allows you to maximize your time and wake up in a new destination ready for a day of exploration.

Another alternative transportation method is ridesharing. Platforms like Uber and Lyft often offer lower rates compared to traditional taxis. Additionally, ridesharing apps sometimes provide promotional codes or discounts for new users, further reducing your transportation expenses.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider hitchhiking in areas where it’s safe and culturally acceptable. This can be a unique and budget-friendly way to travel, allowing you to interact with locals and share stories along the way. However, always prioritize your safety and research the local customs and regulations before hitchhiking.

By embracing alternative transportation methods, you can not only save money but also have a more immersive and memorable travel experience.

Take Advantage of Travel Rewards Programs

Travel rewards programs are a fantastic way to save money and earn perks while exploring the world. Many airlines, hotels, and credit card companies offer travel rewards programs that allow you to accumulate points or miles that can be redeemed for free or discounted flights, hotel stays, and other travel-related expenses.

To make the most of these programs, sign up for loyalty programs with airlines and hotels that you frequently use or plan to use in the future. This way, you can earn points every time you fly or stay at one of their partner hotels. For credit cards, consider obtaining a travel rewards credit card that offers bonus points for travel-related purchases, such as flights or hotel bookings.

It’s important to compare the benefits and conditions of different rewards programs before committing to one. Look for programs that offer flexibility in redeeming points, as well as additional perks like priority boarding, free checked bags, or room upgrades.

In addition to loyalty programs, keep an eye out for special promotions or offers. Sometimes, airlines or hotels run limited-time promotions that allow you to earn bonus points or receive discounts on certain bookings. Staying updated on these promotions can help you maximize your rewards and save even more money.

Finally, don’t forget to utilize your accumulated points or miles. Whether it’s for a free flight, a complimentary hotel stay, or an upgrade to business class, redeeming your rewards can greatly reduce your travel expenses and enhance your travel experience.

By taking advantage of travel rewards programs, you can enjoy the benefits of free or discounted travel, allowing you to stretch your budget further and embark on more adventures.

Pack Light and Avoid Extra Baggage Fees

When it comes to traveling on a budget, packing light is key. Not only does it save you from the hassle of lugging around heavy bags, but it also helps you avoid extra baggage fees imposed by airlines.

Start by making a list of essentials and prioritize items that are versatile and can be easily mixed and matched. Pack clothing that is suitable for the climate of your destination and try to bring items that can be layered for different weather conditions.

Opt for lightweight and compact travel essentials such as travel-sized toiletries and collapsible items. This helps to save valuable space in your luggage. Additionally, consider wearing your heaviest and bulkiest items, such as a jacket or sneakers, during your travel to further lighten your bags.

Check the baggage policy of the airline you’re flying with before packing. Most airlines have weight and size restrictions for both carry-on and checked luggage. By staying within these limits, you can avoid additional charges for overweight or oversized baggage.

If you know that you tend to overpack or anticipate buying souvenirs during your trip, consider leaving some space in your luggage or bringing an extra foldable bag. This way, you’ll have room to bring back your purchases without needing to pay for extra baggage or shipping fees.

By packing light and avoiding extra baggage fees, you not only save money but also have the freedom to move around more easily and comfortably during your trip.

Eat Like a Local

One of the most enjoyable aspects of travel is indulging in the local cuisine. However, eating out at restaurants can quickly become expensive, especially in touristy areas. To save money and experience authentic flavors, consider eating like a local.

Start by exploring local markets and grocery stores. These are excellent places to find fresh produce, local delicacies, and affordable ingredients. Take advantage of self-catering accommodations or communal kitchens in hostels to prepare your own meals. This not only saves you money but also allows you to experiment with local ingredients and flavors.

When dining out, avoid touristy restaurants located near popular attractions. Instead, venture into side streets and neighborhoods where locals eat. Look for small, family-run eateries or street food stalls, as they often offer delicious and inexpensive dishes that are beloved by locals.

Embrace street food as a way to experience the local culture and cuisine. Not only is it usually inexpensive, but it also provides an opportunity to interact with local vendors and taste authentic flavors. Be adventurous and try the local specialties – you might discover a new favorite dish!

Consider having your main meal at lunchtime instead of dinner. Many restaurants offer lunch specials or set menus at a discounted price, allowing you to enjoy a fulfilling meal for less. You can then opt for a lighter meal or snack in the evening.

Lastly, don’t forget to carry a refillable water bottle with you. Purchasing bottled water can quickly add up, especially in touristy areas. By refilling your bottle from tap water or using water refill stations, you can save money and reduce plastic waste.

Eating like a local not only helps you save money but also provides an authentic and immersive culinary experience. So get ready to savor the flavors of your destination while keeping your budget in check.

Avoid Touristy Restaurants

When traveling on a budget, it’s important to avoid touristy restaurants that tend to be overpriced and cater to tourists rather than locals. By venturing off the beaten path and discovering local eateries, you can experience authentic cuisine at a fraction of the cost.

One way to find hidden culinary gems is to ask locals for recommendations. Whether it’s your Airbnb host, a friendly local you meet in a café, or even a taxi driver, they can provide invaluable insights into the best places to eat. Locals know the authentic and affordable eateries that often serve the most delicious food.

Explore neighborhoods away from popular tourist areas. These areas are often filled with local dining establishments that are loved by residents. Look for small family-run restaurants, hole-in-the-wall eateries, and street food vendors. Not only will you have an authentic dining experience, but you’ll also have the opportunity to interact with locals and immerse yourself in their culture.

Keep an eye out for restaurants with menus written in the local language only. This is a good indicator that the establishment caters more to locals than tourists. It’s a sign that you’ll be able to enjoy traditional dishes at reasonable prices.

Another tip is to follow the locals’ lead. If you see a restaurant filled with locals, it’s a good sign that the food is delicious and affordable. Trust the wisdom of the locals and join them in indulging in the flavors of the region.

By avoiding touristy restaurants and opting for local dining establishments, you not only save money but also get to experience the true essence of the destination through its food.

Cook Your Own Meals

Cooking your own meals while traveling may not be the most glamorous option, but it can significantly cut down on your food expenses. It gives you control over what you eat and allows you to save money for other travel experiences.

Firstly, consider booking accommodation with a kitchen or kitchenette. This provides you with the convenience of preparing your own meals. Look for accommodations with access to a communal kitchen if you’re staying in a hostel or consider renting an apartment or vacation home with a fully equipped kitchen.

Visit local markets or grocery stores to stock up on fresh produce, snacks, and ingredients. This not only saves money but also gives you the chance to explore local flavors and culinary specialties. Experiment with cooking regional dishes using authentic local ingredients.

Take advantage of simple and easy-to-make meals such as sandwiches, salads, pasta dishes, and stir-fries. These options require minimal cooking time and can be customized based on the ingredients available to you. Additionally, pack some reusable containers for leftover meals or snacks that you can enjoy on the go.

Don’t forget to consider picnic options as well. Prepare a packed lunch and head to a scenic park or beach for a memorable dining experience. This allows you to enjoy the beauty of your surroundings while saving money on restaurant bills.

Of course, treating yourself to a meal at a local restaurant is still part of the travel experience. Be strategic about your restaurant visits and choose your splurge meals wisely. This way, you can still savor the local cuisine without breaking the bank.

By cooking your own meals, you not only save money but also have the opportunity to connect with the local food culture, develop new culinary skills, and enjoy the comfort of home-cooked meals while on the road.

Use Public Transportation or Walk

When it comes to getting around in a new destination, using public transportation or walking can be a budget traveler’s best friend. Not only is it cost-effective, but it also allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the destination from a different perspective.

Public transportation systems, such as buses, trains, and metros, are widely available in many cities around the world. Research the local transportation options before your trip and familiarize yourself with the routes and schedules. Public transportation is often significantly cheaper than taking taxis or rideshares, and it allows you to get around easily and efficiently.

In addition to saving money, using public transportation provides an opportunity to interact with locals and observe their daily lives. You can catch glimpses of the city’s vibrant street scenes, witness authentic local interactions, and gain a deeper understanding of the destination’s culture.

If the distance permits, consider walking as a means of transportation. Not only is walking free, but it also gives you the chance to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems that may be missed when traveling by other means. Walking allows you to stumble upon charming side streets, stumble upon local markets, and stumble upon lesser-known attractions.

It’s important to prioritize your safety and be mindful of the local customs and regulations regarding pedestrians. Stay in well-lit areas, avoid unsafe neighborhoods, and use pedestrian crossings and sidewalks whenever possible. Consider using navigation apps or maps to help you navigate unfamiliar areas.

By utilizing public transportation or opting to walk, you not only save money but also have the opportunity to truly experience the destination and connect with its people and surroundings. So put on your walking shoes or grab a metro ticket, and set off on an adventure!

Research Free or Low-Cost Attractions

Exploring the attractions and landmarks of your destination is a significant part of the travel experience. However, admission fees for popular tourist sites can quickly add up and strain your budget. To save money while still enjoying unique experiences, take the time to research free or low-cost attractions in the area.

Start by checking if there are any free days or discounted admission rates for museums, galleries, or historical sites. Many institutions offer discounted or even free entry on certain days of the week or specific times of the year. Take advantage of these opportunities to visit popular cultural attractions without breaking the bank.

Additionally, look for parks, gardens, and public spaces that are open to the public for free. These areas often provide a peaceful retreat from the bustling city and showcase the natural beauty of the destination.

Consider exploring local markets and interesting neighborhoods that don’t require an entrance fee. These areas are often rich in culture, street art, and vibrant street life. You can immerse yourself in the local atmosphere, interact with locals, and perhaps even find unique souvenirs or delicious street food.

Look for free walking tours or self-guided walking routes that are available in many cities. These tours allow you to explore the city’s landmarks, learn about its history, and get insider tips from knowledgeable guides or informative apps. You can also find free or low-cost cultural events, concerts, or festivals happening during your stay.

It’s important to plan your itinerary in advance and make a list of the free or low-cost attractions you’d like to visit. This way, you can maximize your time and budget while still enjoying memorable experiences.

By researching and prioritizing free or low-cost attractions, you can save money without compromising on the enriching experiences and cultural immersion that travel offers.

Utilize Travel Apps and Websites

In today’s digital age, there is an abundance of travel apps and websites that can help you navigate, plan, and save money on your travels. By utilizing these resources, you can access valuable information and take advantage of various features and services.

Start by downloading travel apps that offer functionalities such as flight and hotel bookings, itinerary planning, and real-time transportation updates. These apps can help you compare prices, find the best deals, and streamline your travel arrangements. Some popular travel apps include Skyscanner, Airbnb, TripAdvisor, and Google Maps.

Travel websites are also a great resource for finding budget-friendly accommodation, flights, and activities. Use comparison websites to search for the best prices and read reviews from fellow travelers. Additionally, sign up for newsletters or follow social media accounts of airlines, hotels, and travel agencies as they often offer exclusive promotions and discounts.

Make use of budget travel blogs and forums to gather valuable tips and insights from experienced travelers. These platforms often share money-saving hacks, hidden gems, and firsthand experiences that can enhance your travel experience while keeping your budget in mind. Engage with the travel community by asking questions and sharing your own knowledge and experiences.

Consider using travel budgeting apps to track your expenses and maintain a balanced budget throughout your trip. These apps allow you to input your daily expenses, set a travel budget, and receive alerts when you’re approaching your spending limit. This can help you make informed decisions and adjust your spending accordingly.

Lastly, make sure to have offline versions of essential apps or save important information such as hotel addresses, transportation schedules, and emergency contacts. This can come in handy when you don’t have access to the internet or find yourself in areas with limited connectivity.

By utilizing travel apps and websites, you can access valuable information, find the best deals, and make informed decisions that will help you save money and enhance your travel experience.

Stay Connected for Less

Staying connected while traveling is important for many reasons, but it can also be a significant expense. However, there are several ways you can stay connected without breaking the bank.

Firstly, check with your mobile service provider to see if they offer international data plans or special roaming packages. Some providers have affordable options that allow you to use your phone abroad without incurring excessive charges. Another option is to purchase a local SIM card upon arrival, which can offer more cost-effective data and calling rates.

Alternatively, take advantage of Wi-Fi hotspots that are available in many public areas, such as cafes, restaurants, and shopping malls. Before your trip, research where you can find free or low-cost Wi-Fi spots in your destination. This way, you can stay connected for essential tasks such as checking emails, navigating with maps, or communicating with loved ones through messaging apps.

If you need constant internet access, consider renting a portable Wi-Fi device. These devices provide a secure internet connection wherever you go, and you can connect multiple devices to it. This option is particularly useful if you’re traveling with a group or need a reliable connection for work or online activities.

Utilize messaging apps that allow you to make voice and video calls over the internet. Apps such as WhatsApp, Skype, or FaceTime let you stay in touch with family and friends without incurring expensive international calling charges. Just make sure you’re connected to Wi-Fi when using these apps to avoid using your mobile data.

Lastly, be mindful of your data usage. Disable automatic updates and background data usage for apps to avoid unexpected charges. Use offline maps or download maps for your destination before your trip. This way, you can navigate without using data and save on roaming charges.

By exploring these options and being smart about staying connected, you can keep your communication costs low while still staying in touch with the world.

Be Mindful of Currency Exchange Rates

When traveling to a foreign country, being mindful of currency exchange rates can help you stretch your budget further and get the most value for your money. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Before your trip, research the current exchange rate for the currency of your destination. This will give you an idea of how much you’re actually spending when converting your money. Avoid exchanging currency at airports or tourist areas, as they often have high fees and unfavorable rates. Instead, look for local banks or reputable currency exchange offices for the best rates.

Consider using a credit card with no foreign transaction fees, as this can save you money on each transaction. Look for cards that offer competitive exchange rates and take note of any additional fees or charges. However, be sure to pay off your credit card balance in full each month to avoid interest charges.

Withdraw local currency from ATMs rather than exchanging large amounts of cash in advance. ATMs often offer competitive exchange rates, and you can withdraw smaller amounts as needed to minimize the risk of carrying large sums of money.

If you’ll be making purchases or paying for services in a foreign currency, use a currency converter app or website to understand the value of the amount you’re spending. This will help you make informed decisions and avoid overpaying for goods or services.

Keep an eye out for local businesses that accept payment in your home currency. While this may seem convenient, it’s essential to compare the conversion rate offered by the business to the current market rate to ensure you’re not being charged an unfavorable rate.

Lastly, keep your leftover currency for future trips or consider exchanging it back to your home currency before leaving the country. This way, you won’t be left with unused currency that may be difficult to exchange back home.

By being mindful of currency exchange rates, you can make smarter financial decisions and ensure that you’re getting the best value for your money while traveling.

Take Advantage of Discounts and Coupons

When traveling on a budget, every little saving counts. Taking advantage of discounts and coupons can help you reduce expenses and make your travel adventures more affordable. Here are some tips to help you find and make the most of these opportunities:

Research online before your trip to find discounts or special promotions for attractions, activities, and transportation. Many websites offer exclusive deals and coupon codes that can significantly reduce the cost of popular tourist activities.

Check if the destination offers a tourist pass or city card. These cards typically provide discounted or free admission to popular attractions, as well as discounted public transportation. Look into the different options available and calculate whether it’s worthwhile based on your itinerary and the attractions you plan to visit.

Sign up for newsletters and follow social media accounts of travel companies, airlines, hotels, and tour operators. They often share exclusive deals and limited-time promotions with their subscribers and followers. This can be a great way to access discounts and special offers before or during your trip.

Consider joining loyalty programs or membership clubs. Many airlines, hotels, and travel companies offer rewards programs that allow you to accumulate points or miles that can be redeemed for discounts on future bookings. Membership clubs sometimes offer discounted rates on accommodations, transportation, or tour packages.

Ask locals for advice on finding coupons or discounts. Locals are often aware of special deals or lesser-known discounts that may not be readily available online. Strike up conversations and don’t be shy about seeking recommendations for affordable dining options or discounted tickets.

Keep an eye out for discount websites or apps that specialize in travel deals. These platforms aggregate discounts from various sources and can offer significant savings on accommodations, activities, and transportation.

Check if your credit card offers any travel-related perks or discounts. Some credit cards provide benefits such as free access to airport lounges, discounts on car rentals, or exclusive hotel rates. Before your trip, review the perks and benefits associated with your credit card to see if there are any potential savings to be had.

Remember to read the terms and conditions of any discount or coupon offer to understand the limitations and expiration dates. Also, be cautious of scams and only use reputable websites and sources when seeking discounts.

By being proactive and taking advantage of discounts and coupons, you can significantly reduce your travel expenses and enjoy more memorable experiences without straining your budget.

Travel Slow and Stay Longer in Each Destination

One of the best ways to save money on travel is by adopting a slow travel mindset and staying longer in each destination. Instead of rushing from one place to another, take the time to fully immerse yourself in the local culture and explore the hidden gems of each location.

When you stay in a destination for a longer period, you have more time to research and discover budget-friendly activities and attractions. You can explore the lesser-known neighborhoods, visit local markets, and participate in free or low-cost cultural events.

Staying longer also allows you to take advantage of discounted rates for accommodations. Many hotels and vacation rentals offer lower rates for extended stays, making it more affordable to settle in one place for an extended period.

A slower pace of travel also means you can take advantage of cheaper transportation options. Instead of rushing between cities via expensive flights, consider taking buses or trains, which are often more economical. You can also opt for slower routes that offer scenic landscapes and a chance to interact with locals along the way.

By staying in one place for an extended period, you can also save on dining expenses. Rather than eating out for every meal, you have the opportunity to shop in local markets and prepare your own meals, whether it’s in a rented apartment or a hostel with communal kitchens. This not only saves money but also allows you to experiment with local ingredients and flavors.

Additionally, traveling slowly allows you to form deeper connections with the locals and gain a more authentic understanding of the culture. You can engage in conversations, learn from the locals, and possibly even find opportunities for volunteer work or cultural exchange programs.

When planning your itinerary, prioritize quality over quantity. Consider staying in a fewer number of destinations and dedicating more time to truly experience and appreciate each place. This way, you can make the most of your travel budget and create lasting memories.

Embracing slow travel not only helps you save money, but it also allows for a more meaningful and immersive travel experience. Take your time, explore at a leisurely pace, and fully embrace the destination you’re in.

Travel With a Group or Share Costs

Traveling with a group or finding travel companions can be a great way to save money and share costs. By splitting expenses, you can significantly reduce your individual travel expenses and stretch your budget further. Here’s how you can take advantage of group travel:

Consider traveling with friends, family, or like-minded travelers who are looking to explore the same destinations. By pooling resources, you can share accommodation costs, car rentals, and even group tour expenses. Splitting the bill for meals and transportation can make a significant difference in your overall travel budget.

Look for group travel deals and packages that offer discounted rates for larger groups. Many travel agencies or tour operators provide exclusive discounts for group bookings, saving you money on accommodations, transportation, and activities.

If you don’t have a ready-made travel group, use online platforms and forums to find fellow travelers interested in sharing costs. Websites like Meetup, Travel Buddies, or Couchsurfing often have discussion groups or message boards where you can connect with other travelers looking to split costs and share experiences. This can also be an opportunity to make new friends and create memorable travel memories.

When traveling with a group, consider booking accommodations that cater to larger groups, such as rental apartments or vacation homes. These often come with multiple bedrooms, a shared living space, and a kitchen, allowing you to save on individual room costs and to prepare your own meals together.

Another cost-saving option is hiring a shared guide or tour operator for certain activities or day trips. By sharing the guide’s fee among the group, you can access the same experiences at a lower cost compared to hiring a private guide.

Of course, when traveling with a group, it’s important to have open communication and discuss shared expenses and budgets in advance. Ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding cost-sharing and be respectful of each other’s individual preferences and travel styles.

By traveling with a group or finding travel companions, you can enjoy the benefits of cost sharing, reduced expenses, and shared memorable experiences. It not only helps you save money but also allows for a more connected and social travel experience.

Stay Flexible With Your Itinerary

When traveling on a budget, it’s important to stay flexible with your itinerary. Being open to changes and opportunities can help you save money and make the most of your travel experience. Here are some ways to embrace flexibility:

Keep an eye out for last-minute travel deals or discounted flights. Sometimes, airlines or travel agencies offer significant discounts on unsold seats closer to the departure date. By remaining flexible with your travel dates and destinations, you can take advantage of these unexpected deals and save money.

Consider traveling during the shoulder season or off-peak periods when tourist crowds are smaller. Accommodations, flights, and attractions often have lower rates during these times, allowing you to enjoy discounted prices and a more relaxed travel experience.

Instead of rigidly following a fixed travel plan, remain open to spontaneous detours and side trips. This can lead to exciting discoveries and unexpected adventures. Speak with locals, fellow travelers, and hostel staff to gather recommendations and insider tips for off-the-beaten-path destinations or hidden gems.

Be open to alternative transportation options. This could mean taking a longer scenic route by bus or train, opting for budget airlines, or even considering ridesharing options. Staying flexible with your travel plans allows you to choose the most cost-effective transportation method based on your budget and availability.

Flexibility also extends to accommodation choices. Consider alternative options such as hostels, guesthouses, or vacation rentals. By being flexible with your lodging preferences, you can often find more affordable and unique accommodations that fit your budget.

Additionally, staying flexible with your daily activities and eating options can help you save money. Research and take advantage of happy hours, lunch specials, or local food markets for affordable meals. Be open to trying local street food or sampling regional delicacies instead of dining in expensive tourist-oriented restaurants.

Ultimately, staying flexible with your itinerary allows you to adapt to changing circumstances, seize unexpected opportunities, and be more resourceful with your travel budget. Embrace the spontaneity of travel and allow yourself to be surprised and delighted by the many possibilities that may arise along the way.

Embrace the Spirit of Adventure

Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on the quality of your experiences. In fact, embracing the spirit of adventure can lead to incredible and memorable moments while keeping your expenses in check. Here’s how:

Step out of your comfort zone and seek out authentic and immersive experiences. This could mean exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, interacting with locals, or participating in cultural activities. Embracing the unknown can often lead to the most enriching and budget-friendly adventures.

Be open to new and different ways of experiencing your destination. Instead of relying solely on guided tours, consider self-guided explorations, hiking trails, or free walking tours. Take the time to research and plan your own itineraries based on your interests, allowing for a more personalized and cost-effective experience.

Try alternative modes of transport, such as hitchhiking, biking, or taking local buses. These options provide a unique perspective of the destination and can save you money on transportation costs. However, always prioritize safety and research local customs and regulations before attempting these modes of travel.

Engage with locals and fellow travelers. They can provide valuable insights, recommendations for budget-friendly activities, and even opportunities for shared adventures. Strike up conversations, join a group hike, or participate in community activities to connect with like-minded individuals and discover affordable or even free experiences.

Embrace the elements of nature and take advantage of free outdoor activities. Hiking, swimming in natural pools, or enjoying a picnic in a park are all budget-friendly options that allow you to connect with the environment and appreciate the beauty of your surroundings.

Take part in volunteer opportunities or cultural exchange programs. Many organizations offer free or low-cost volunteering opportunities where you can contribute your skills and time in exchange for accommodations and meals. Not only does this provide a unique way to experience a destination, but it also allows you to give back and make a positive impact.

Remember, the spirit of adventure is about embracing the unexpected, being open to new experiences, and creating memories that money can’t buy. By stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing the unknown, you can have incredible adventures while staying within your budget.

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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, Snowboard Instructor & 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 currently guides mountain trips in the UK.

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The Best Budget Travel Tips — From Saving Money on Air Travel to Spending Less on Hotels

The finance and travel pros have you covered.

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It’s clear that people are thinking about travel this year, and if you’re reading this, you’re probably one of them. Whether a weekend getaway, staycation, cruise, or faraway excursion, a trip is in the plans (and/or wishes) for many Americans. According to an IPX1031 survey with 1,000 participants, more than 90 percent of Americans plan to travel in 2023. The majority (86 percent) are planning a trip out of state, and nearly 30 percent expect to vacation abroad.

RetailMeNot asked 1,000 U.S. consumers about their spring and summer travel plans and found that 96 percent hope to take at least one trip between March and May. Their survey also revealed that price is the most important factor when it comes to deciding on vacation experiences and activities. Two-thirds of the respondents agreed that inflation is impacting where and how they travel, especially the high cost of transportation.

Even with budget concerns, though, travel is still possible. Getting away from the daily routine, even briefly, provides relaxation, enjoyment, enrichment, and health benefits . To help make those travel plans come to fruition, we gathered some ideas on budget vacations from travel and finance expert.

How to Plan Travel Within a Budget

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"Don’t let Instagram influencers make you think you can’t travel on a budget, and don’t believe travel isn’t worthwhile just because you don’t have a lot of money to spend," Samantha Brown , travel expert and host of PBS’s Emmy-winning series, Samantha Brown’s Places to Love , told Travel + Leisure .

With that encouragement, Brown offered some suggestions: " Road tripping saves on both costs and stress because so much travel anxiety can be attributed to airports and airlines." She continued, "Take more road trips in your own car and explore your own state. Travelers rarely think about their own backyard, but they should."

Along those lines, Brown suggested checking out the National Wildlife Refuge System , with more than 560 refuges, including 100 urban national wildlife refuges located near metropolitan areas. There’s also access to hiking and biking trails, wetlands, and a thriving animal population. 

Brown added, "Think in terms of opposites: If it’s summer and everyone’s going to the beach, head to a city and enjoy all their free events such as outdoor concerts." Consumer financial advocate Courtney Alev of Credit Karma echoed Brown’s suggestion to avoid popular spots during their high seasons, when prices are guaranteed to be more expensive. Instead, look into alternative, similar destinations. Alev added, "A fun getaway doesn’t always involve a flight. Look at destinations that are within driving distance of home and see where you can go close by."

T+L A-list advisor Jonathan Alder agreed that travelers should seek out the shoulder and off-season periods when costs are lower. He suggested considering destinations outside of the U.S. "Many people might assume it’s less expensive or a greater value to travel within the U.S., although that is far from true for the last few years. Consider destinations that might not be your first thought as there are so many amazing countries out there."

Saving Dollars on Air Travel

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Kristin McGrath, shopping expert for RetailMeNot, suggested signing up for email alerts from tools like Expedia, Travelocity, and Google Flights to get early access to coupon codes. "Experiment with different travel dates," she said. "If your travel plans are flexible, check alternative flight dates to see if you can dig up a lower fare. You may be able to trim your ticket price by changing your dates by as little as one day."

Alev added, "When your travel plans are flexible it’s usually easier to find cheap flights. Traveling during the week, tolerating a longer layover, or taking a red-eye flight often provides the best deals. Also, book somewhat in advance so you aren’t paying last-minute prices."

A travel trends report from Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo suggests Sunday is the best day to book and Wednesday is the best day to depart. They recommend one month lead time for booking domestic flights and six months for international flights. Of course, advice on this topic varies, but it’s a good idea to compare and learn as much as you can before booking. 

Spending Less for Hotels

"Spend no money on accommodations. Think of house swapping or housesitting. You can stay all over the world for free," Brown told T+L, recommending TrustedHousesitters and Home Exchange as two sites to explore.

McGrath, meanwhile, advised, "For vacation rentals, book your stay as early as possible. Whether you’ve been dreaming of a tropical vacation or are planning to head home for a specific holiday or event, book early. Vrbo, Airbnb, and other vacation rental prices tend to be less expensive when booking months or even weeks ahead."

McGrath also suggested booking bundled vacation packages that include flights, hotels, and car rentals. In addition to saving money, you’ll know the price of your entire trip at the time of booking, rather than getting a cheap flight only to be surprised by the cost of hotels and car rentals. 

The Expedia travel trends report points out a boom in more affordable three-star hotel stays. "Fewer stars don’t equal lower standards ... Many properties still offer excellent amenities, stylish interiors, and unique vibes...just at lower rates." The report continues, "As nearly a quarter of global travelers plan to be more frugal in 2023, added value without compromised quality is vital.” 

Budget Travel Without Debt

According to a study from Accrue Savings , one in five consumers have gone into debt for travel, with 81 percent incurring more than $500 worth of debt. Instead of facing payments for a past vacation, the company recommends saving in advance for a trip. 

Alev advised creating a separate savings account to give your money a purpose. "Dedicating that account to a specific getaway will make it easier to see how your savings are growing over time, and will help you avoid accidentally spending that money on something else." She also suggested setting up automatic withdrawals from your checking account or having part of your paycheck automatically deposited into your savings account.

Retail and shopping expert Kristen Gall of Rakuten understands it’s hard to resist buying items to have a piece of that memory at home. "However, it’s important to remember you don’t need every souvenir that catches your eye. I recommend only purchasing items that you simply can’t get back at home or that are small enough to not impact your luggage weight."

With these expert suggestions and your own creative approach to budgeting, this may be the time to start planning a well-deserved vacation.

Related Articles

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
• The Top Cheap Weekend Getaways in the U.S.
• The Top All-Inclusive Resorts Where Kids Stay Free
• Cruise Lines That Let Kids Sail Free

Tags: Travel , Budget Travel , Travel Tips

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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How to Travel on a Budget – Top Tips for Traveling Cheap

Written By: The Planet D

Travel Planning

Updated On: March 14, 2024

Travel doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, you can  travel on a budget  and enjoy the finer things in life without digging deep into your pocketbook.  These budget travel tips will give you the tools to start  planning your trip  and making travel a large part of your life.

We would love to be able to tell you all that we’re independently wealthy and don’t have to worry about a cent, but that is not the case. We have to think about every penny we spend on travel. So we want to share our tips for traveling on a budget.

Table of Contents

How to Travel on a Budget in Style

Where are the cheapest travel destinations, and how to save money when booking your travels and how to  find cheap accommodation ? Just follow these budget-saving tips to find out and you’ll be able to travel more for less! If you are looking for ways to save money for travel check out How to Save Money for Travel – 15 Tips to Get Started Now

Booking Flights

1. Flexibility for Travel Dates

If you are willing to be flexible on travel dates, you can possibly save hundreds of dollars on your flight. Flights may be cheaper if you fly on the weekend as opposed to flying on Monday morning.

Shop around and compare . We have found business class flights on one day for the same price as economy flights on another. ( by flying on different dates, we got a business class flight for the same price! )

It pays to look at different days up to 5 or 6 days before or after your desired dates of departure. We use Skyscanner and punch in our dates as flexible. It does a comparison of flight prices a couple of days before our preferred flights and a couple of days after.

All you have to do is click on the arrows to see what prices are the next day or the day before your desired departure.

Check Different Airports for Departures

If you live in a city not far from other hubs, check out their rates to see if there is a better deal at a nearby airport or even a different city airport. We live in Toronto, but sometimes flying out of Hamilton (which is about a 40-minute drive from TO) can be cheaper than flying out of one of the Toronto airports.

Do the same for your destination airport. For Example, Flying into  Tokyo’s  Narita Airport may be   more expensive than Hanita. Plus Narita is much farther out of the city than Hanita, so you may spend a lot more on taxis and shuttles to the city that may end up costing you the price you might have saved on the flight.

Flights out of a city in the United States may be cheaper than flying out of a Canadian departure city for Canadians. If you live near the border, it is worth checking departures from the closest American airport.

Many American airports offer shuttle services from Canada as well. These are all things to consider.

Search For Flights Online Incognito

When booking your flights online, be sure to use an incognito window. Websites use cookies to track your previous searches and they’ll be able to see what deal they already offered you. If you go incognito, you’ll be able to find the freshest deals.

Also, flight costs vary from day-to-day. Booking on a Monday may not have the best deals as buying on a Thursday and the same can be said for flying.

Book Hotel, Car Rental, and Flights Together

We like to find our own hotels when traveling, but we usually book our first night or two at a hotel online when we book our flights. When we book a hotel at the same time as our flights, we often save a ton of money.

We learned this little trick when we were Expedia  Viewfinders  and sat at the Expedia headquarters where they told us their insider tips. By booking your hotel and flight together, you can end up saving a lot of money by bundling.

We also, recommend  booking your rental car  at the same time if you are thinking of driving to save even more money. When we booked our flight to Italy with  Skyscanner,  we searched for a rental car at the same time and ended up paying only $75 USD for a 10-day car rental! That was cheaper than the gas we used for the entire 10 days!

Search for Deals to your Dream Destination Today with Skyscanner . From To Return One way DepartReturn Search flights

Choosing Your Destination

Where you travel has a great impact on the cost of a trip. Traveling to developing nations is a cheaper option than hot destinations. Everyone wants to go to Bora Bora or Tahiti, but  Thailand  or the  Bahamas  have just as beautiful beaches and bungalows. Both destinations are beautiful, but one is cheaper than the other. 

You can take it even one step further. Thailand is cheap, but  Vietnam  is even cheaper! And the same with the Bahamas. It is affordable to travel to the Bahamas, but Honduras is much cheaper to travel to.

How to Find Cheap Places to Travel

Look for places that have a good infrastructure for independent travel where you can stretch your dollar and make it last longer. We can stay on a beach bungalow in India for $10 a night as opposed to booking an expensive week at an overcrowded all-inclusive Caribbean resort.

Traveling to off the beaten path destinations will keep overpriced businesses in popular locations from digging too deep into your wallet. A Guesthouse in Honduras can go for $20 to $30 per night and meals at these destinations can be as low as $2-$3. Beer is as low as a buck a bottle.

Plus the local people of the not so well traveled places will be happy to have your business.

The Cheapest Destinations to travel

Eastern Europe

One of our favorite cities to visit in Europe is  Budapest  in Hungary which is very affordable. Poland, Austria, Czech Republic, Romania and Bulgaria, and excellent budget travel destinations. We couldn’t get over how cheap Sofia Bulgaria was when we visited.

Southeast Asia

There’s a reason South East Asia is popular for backpackers. It’s a very cheap travel destination. While Thailand is starting to go up in price, it’s still very reasonable. Especially in places like  Chiang Mai  where many expats and bloggers live.

You can’t go wrong with many places in South East Asia. Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Indonesia…they are all still some of the cheapest destinations to travel on earth and some of the  most beautiful places  to see in the world.

The Baltics

The Baltics are an up and coming destination and are very reasonable. We were in Estonia and it is a fascinating place to visit that is good for the budget. Considering Estonia is just a stone’s throw from Scandinavia, it was surprising to see how reasonable it was. Lithuania and Latvia are hot emerging destinations.

The Balkans

The Balkans are another cheap destination in Europe. Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, Greece , and  Turkey  are a part of the Balkans and are fantastic places to travel on a budget.

Everyone is always raving about  how cheap Portugal is . In fact, a lot of expats are starting to live in  Portugal  because it is so reasonable. It’s an excellent place to travel cheaply in Europe where you get excellent beaches,  culture , and food!

If you are American, British, or European,  Canada  is one of the top inexpensive places to travel simply because our dollar is so weak. It’s an amazing country to visit with so many adventures to be had complete with beautiful mountains, luxury travels and world class cities.

Yet if you are from Europe or England you’re saving nearly 50% on the dollar! American’s save anywhere between 25% – %30 on the dollar at any given time.

Mexico  is one of our favorite countries to visit and it’s one of the cheapest travel destinations out there. Sure all-inclusive  vacations to Cancun  or Puerto Vallarta can run you a pretty penny but traveling independently on a budget can be very cheap. Vacation rentals are affordable, hostels and guesthouses are cheap and bus travel is very easy and affordable in Mexico .

Central Asia

Going off the beaten path into Kazakhstan,  Kyrgyzstan  or  Mongolia  will give you the opportunity to travel on a shoestring. Tourism is just starting to blossom and tours and hotels are very reasonable. Getting around more off the beaten path destinations can be a bit more difficult, but the pay off of going to places where few have been is worth it.

Nepal  is an affordable adventure travel destination and our personal favorite,  Sri Lanka  is not only very cheap, but it has amazing beaches, culture, adventure, and cuisine.

India  is probably one of the cheapest destinations we’ve ever visited. It was in  India  that we  started our blog  and had a very low travel budget for travel. We made our money last for months in India and stayed in some very find accommodations like bungalows on the beach in Goa, a beautiful private guesthouse in Kerala and a  gorgeous hotel  overlooking  Lake Pichola Udaipur .

Central America

This is another excellent cheap vacation destination. While Costa Rica has gone up significantly over the years, places like  Belize ,  Panama , Honduras, Guatemala , and Nicaragua are still budget travel-friendly.

South America

Peru  is still a favorite of ours and it is affordable. We found  Brazil t o be quite reasonable and Ecuador was downright cheap when we were there. There are so many inexpensive places to travel the list can go on and on.

In the Caribbean ,  Grenada  is always at the top of cheap destinations lists.

So when planning your travels, think really hard about the destination. Sure, you see a lot of pictures of the  Maldives  or Tahiti in your Instagram feed that make you want to go there. But you can get the same luxury and beauty for a fraction of the price if you choose wisely.

Ways to Travel for Cheap

There are several ways to travel cheaply. From traveling independently to booking alternative accommodation. We’ve broken down alternative ways to travel on a budget to help you get those creative juices flowing.

Travel Independently

If you want to travel on a budget the best way is to do it independently. All-inclusive resorts may be easier but you are paying for the convenience and really,  don’t you want to sample the local culture?

Travel During Off-Peak Times

It’s well known that travel during high season is expensive. But what isn’t so well known is that traveling in the offseason or shoulder season can be just as fulfilling as traveling at peak times. We’ve been to Santorini  when it was close to closing for the season and had balmy weather. We also got a steal on a luxury hotel with an infinity pool.

But remember, what is “off-peak” seasons change around the world. The Caribbean travel may be low season in the summer months of June – August, but it is high season in South America during these times. Do your research and make sure to find out when the best time to travel to a destination is and then look for shoulder-season deals.

We spent shoulder season on the  Amalfi Coast  in Italy and had incredible accommodation and car rental deals while still enjoying excellent weather and fewer crowds.

Hire Local Guides

We have  climbed Mount Kilimanjaro  for less than $900 and we have been to  Everest Base Camp  for less than $1000 for a 14-day trek including meals and accommodation. We booked our treks to each mountain once we arrived in the country. By hiring a local guide, we know that all the money we spend goes to them instead of the tour company.

Eat at local restaurants

If you want a truly authentic experience, eat where the locals eat. If a place is filled with local people, you can be sure that the food is fresh, delicious, and affordable. Ask your taxi driver or guest house owner for recommendations. Or do what we do, go for a walk and see what’s packed with people!

Shop at Local Markets

Forget shopping at Duty-Free stores or boutiques, shop at local markets for handcraft designs and handmade clothing. We have walked away with amazing works of art for bargain basement prices that have been conversation pieces for years when on display in our home. (well, when we had a home)

Shopping at the local markets not only saves you money, but you contribute to the local economy. Make sure to be ready to barter, it’s all part of the fun. Read our tips 10 Proven Tips: How To Bargain Like a Pro When Traveling

Take Local Transport or Walk

Booking tours from your hotel is expensive. We’ve gone outside, hailed a taxi or  tuk-tuk  and asked them how much to be hired for the day. You’ll have way more fun sightseeing locally than from behind the glass of a tour bus.

Or you can go downtown and find a local travel agent and ask them how much to hire a guide and driver for the day. They can take you on a tour and you’ll see a different side of the city. Or grab a map and a guide book and walk yourself, hire a bicycle or hop into a rickshaw.

Take Advantage of Free Attractions

After taking advantage of all the  free attractions,  museums, and discounts, we barely spent anything on our European vacation. Many cities in  Europe offer discounts  at museums after a certain hour or even have many free attractions. Many museums in European cities are free.

Most cities offer  free walking tours  where the guides depend on tips. Check with the website of the local tourist board when you arrive or look online to see what things are free in each city.

City passes help to save a lot of money as well. Just do a simple google search like  “Free Things to do in Paris.” 

Travel to Europe can be very expensive but you can eat gourmet meals by shopping at the supermarket. We’ve eaten like royalty after visiting a market and buying a nice bottle of wine for €2-€4 while indulging in fresh meats and cheeses for next to nothing. Bring a blanket and a basket to one of the stunning parks on the continent and enjoy a real European experience.

Travel Cheap with Alternative Accommodation 

We stayed in  France, Spain , and Italy for six weeks in our tent. The campgrounds of Europe are luxurious complete with swimming pools, spas, restaurants and sometimes free shuttles to major attractions. All this for less than €20 a night.

We rented a car for €600 for a month and paid less than €500 for the month of accommodations as we camped our way through Europe! Camping is a lot of fun, we made friends and we could stretch our travel budget for longs.

We camped all the way from  England to Mongolia on a road trip and stayed at cheap campgrounds with full ammenities. Plus we pulled over on the side of the road and camped many times for free!

Hire a Campervan

In New Zealand  we hired a campervan to drive around and take our time experiencing the country. A lot of people hire campervans in Europe. In Scotland, you can pull over on the side of the road and camp for free! With a campervan, you have everything you need with you. You can cook, sleep and get around saving a lot of money on travel.

Independent Hotels

Chain hotels are expensive, instead, look for independent guest houses or B&B’s. You can stay in a beach bungalow for less than $10 if you have the patience to look around for a bargain. Use a guide book like Lonely Planet to find budget areas and accommodations. It can be done!

Chain Hotels

Then again, there are tried and true chain hotels to choose from that are great for the travel budget. Ibis and  Etap Hotels  are located all across Europe and are budget-friendly, yet have all the amenities you need like cable tv, wifi, private baths, and even breakfast at some. Some of the Etap Hotels in Europe don’t even have a check-in counter to save on costs so you simply use your code once you pay your fee.

Stay in Hostels

Save on your room to enjoy your time in your destination. Hostels have come a long way in recent years and you can find many of the amenities that you will find in hotels including private rooms with bath and TV. Plus, most hostels offer free wifi and a kitchen to cook your meals saving on eating out.

Hostels are a great way to travel cheap and meet like-minded people along the way! HostelWorld  is a good place to start looking for hostel prices and reviews at your destination.

Apartment Rentals or Air BnB

We love using apartment rentals to save money. More people can stay together in one place to split the cost. You can cook at home which will save you a ton of money. Plus, going to the market shopping is an adventure unto itself and is an excellent way to immerse in the local culture.

Plus, apartment rentals are normally in the heart of all the action for a fraction of the price of a hotels. Check AirBnB for rates on the destination your thinking of.

Stay for Free 

Housesitting , Couchsurfing, and work exchange are some of the best options to travel cheaply and save a lot of money on travels.

Check how to  stay for free around the world  to and How to Become a House Sitter – Tips Start House Sitting in 2021

Travel Rewards Credit Cards

Use a travel rewards credit card to accumulate mileage and receive bonus rewards for signing up. You have to spend money anyway, so it only makes sense to accumulate rewards as you shop.

We use American Express Platinum ( disclosure, we used to be American Express Ambassadors, but we do not work with them anymore.) We still love and use the card for its travel benefits. With our Amex Platinum, we can book our own travel, pay for it with our credit card and then call American Express to have them pay for the purchase with our points.

Recommended travel rewards cards are American Express Platinum or Chase Sapphire:  See the entire breakdown of rewards  and benefits here.

With our Amex Platinum, (and Chase Sapphire as well) we are also automatically upgraded to SPG and Marriott Gold, Hilton Gold which allows a lot of perks like early check-in, late check out and free Internet.

Our card also offers free car rental insurance which saves a bundle. We don’t have to worry about the extra $15 – $20 per day of car insurance. If anything happens, AMEX takes care of it all.

Travel Slowly

It is easier to travel on a budget if you have the time. If you are traveling long term, you can really stretch your dollar to have a low daily travel fee.

Having time gives you options to take local transport, search for deals on guides and accommodation and to be able to shop at supermarkets and cook your own food. We saved hundreds of dollars on our climb to Everest Base Camp because we had the time to search for a guide that suited our budget.

If you take the time and research your destination before you go, you’ll be able to stick to your budget and have a more stress free experience traveling the world. So are you ready to see the world?

• 50 Best Travel Tips from traveling the World
• How to Get Paid to Travel the World
• 11 Easy Air Travel Tips to Make Life Easier

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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36 thoughts on “How to Travel on a Budget – Top Tips for Traveling Cheap”

I’m always looking for ways to cut down cost when travelling so thank you for the tips!

Outstanding Dave. Budget is always a problem for travel enthusiasts.

It was a very useful article! Not always we have money to travel, with these tips it can be possible!

Great tips! Flexibility is really the best way to save. Waiting last minute for flights is a real gable. Sometimes it’s seen as a desperate move for the flyer, and prices are upcharged. Other times, the flights are desperate, and it’s a great way to save. If you have flexibility in your schedule, it allows you to see the good and bad price offers on tickets and pick one that you feel is best.

In India it is always helpful to ask local people’s advice for best budget food and stay. The government websites are reliable source of information. Thanks for the budget travel tips.

Thanks for all your good ideas. The current pandemic is resulting in lots of changes. Just saw that Couchsurfing is no longer free, take a look at their new structure. Happy Travels!

As a budget traveler myself, I’m always looking to see more while spending less. Thank you for sharing these budget travel tips from your own experiences!

Great Article, Thanks for list to travel on budget. Definitely, I’ll use some tricks on my upcoming tours.

Thank you so much for this awesome list of places to travel on budget.

So many tips in just one piece of content, this article inspired me a lot for my next travel trip. I really enjoy Dave and Deb’s tips to the max. I hope I will have the chance to experience all of this.

Many thanks for this really valuable article. I often travel on reasonable, so I bookmarked your instructions.

These are such perfect tips. Everything here is such a great idea to help people achieve their travel dreams! Thanks for sharing.

Great tips! I save few more bucks by simple trick, I travel in off peak seasons or nearly peak seasons. It helps me in saving few bucks on hotel & flights. Also, I can avoid crowd which is the best thing.

Hello, I loved this blog because I felt this is just for me. You have mentioned each and every point very clearly and elaborated amazingly. I always travel with proper planning and budget. Extending expense thing scares me. I think so much about traveling, I believe in ‘money-saving’ motto. On the last vacation, I had gone to Nepal which is a very affordable country with amazing natural resources. I am going to share this post with my traveler buddies. Thanks for this blog!

Great tips! Thank you Dave and Deb for the article. There are many points that I can relate myself when I travel to another country.

Bravo…!! I loved it. This post is literally awesome. Thanks for sharing wonderful information.

Awesome Post…Thanks for sharing. Definitely, I’ll use some tricks on my upcoming tours.

I definitely agree that Honduras is much cheaper to travel to! I want to go back this year!

Thanks for sharing all the travel guide trips.It was amazing and interesting information.

Yeah! Thanks for sharing this information. It’s really helpful for me while I go for the tour. Bcz I also preferred a Budget trip and your blog helps me a lot for pocket-friendly. Keep it up. 🙂

Thank you for sharing these great tips. I’m using them regularly while I travel. Another way of making your trip more meaningful and also cheaper is volunteering aborad or giving some work for free accommodation and food. I’ve done that on three continents so far and I love it! It really makes my experiences unique and I learn so much about the places I visit. Highly recommended! 🙂

Opening in incognito seems useful, you can even check searching using VPN much easier with google chrome ! Hope that helps ! And really thank you Dave and Deb for the article.

I agree accommodation shouldn’t break the bank. Find cheaper but good alternatives. As for me, I look for hostels and guesthouses with basic necessities in it like wifi and own bathroom and I’m fine.

I’m all about being frugal nowadays! 🙂

Some great cash-saving, tight-budget travel tips here! As for accommodation, I’ll add one budget tip I’ve learned – as you said, it’s great to stick with independent budget hotels, but it’s also good to book them directly as opposed to using booking or other service as such. Due to the overhead they will offer a better price!

This is really amazing article, when I went through it, i am impressed because there are so many points that i am able to relate myself when I travel I used to keep these things in mind. Thanks for posting such a great article man.

Excellent advice! Thanks for the tips.

Glad we could help, cheers!

Super helpful! Definitely looking into the AMEX card for my travels 🙂

This list is great! I really like the idea of the travel rewards, I really have to look into that. Do you have any recommendations for european travelers? By the way, and along with the tip of eating local, me and friends developed a site that is right in the spirit of this: http://www.mealsharing.org . It’s all about connecting with locals ove home cooked meals. And it is true that when you eat with locals and when you go small, you can get so much more in return. For us it’s been an incredible experience and has made traveling more cozy and enriching.

Great tips! I definitely shop at local markets and eat at local restaurants whenever I can. I met a German traveler in Barcelona who loved touring New Zealand by campervan; now I definitely have to try it!

We agree with all of these helpful tips. We are currently in Thailand and can get a tasty meal from the local market for $1! If you are planning to travel long term you can balance out the more expensive destinations by also spending time in cheaper places. We have also saved a lot of money by house sitting (we recently stayed in a house in Kyoto, Japan for free for 3.5 weeks!), working in exchange for food and accommodation (WWOOF and HelpX are good organisations for finding placements) and couchsurfing.

Knowing the exchange rate is vital. I love the xe.com app on our iPod Touch.

Love the cup o’ noodle in the BNB or hostel room. If that doesn’t scream budget, I don’t know what does. hah

Yep, that is totally budget eh! That bungalow cost $150 for the month! Not bad eh. We had hot water and they cleaned it for us each day.

Thanks for all the travel guide tips. As someone who does some travel you’d think I would just get this stuff down pack by now. I think the bonus tips are simple but vital. I don’t know how many times while in my traveling to another country and forget to bring a calculator. It’s simple process but we make it difficult of course.

You are so right Anna. That’s what made us write this post. We have been doing basic how to tips for TV and we realized that many people don’t know these things. WE didn’t know any of this until we started traveling. It has all come to us over the years.

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25 Brilliant Travel Hacks We're Betting People Don't Know

Alex Andonovska is a staff writer at Cheapism and MediaFeed, based in Porto, Portugal. With 12 years of writing and editing at places like VintageNews.com, she’s your go-to for all things travel, food, and lifestyle.

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Globetrotting Like a Pro

Traveling is a game of luck, really. Will you get stranded at the airport , or will everything go smoothly? Will you fall in love in a foreign country, or fall victim to a tourist trap ? 

While there's no way to predict what might happen, some of it is a science that can be hacked, since traveling is also about experience and learning from trial and error. 

That’s why we gathered our own tips and scoured  Reddit  for secret travel advice from seasoned travelers to help you avoid the fuss. Here are some of our favorite bits of wisdom.

1. Pack an Orange

When life gives you an orange, bring it on your flight as a personal air freshener. If the air gets funky — because it often does — peel that orange and instantly refresh your space. The orange's natural oils, like  D-limonene , also have antibacterial properties that help fight off germs.

2. Roll Your Clothes

There's an age-old packing debate: fold or roll, and which saves more space? Without wading into that debate, if you're not traveling light and have limited space, Team Roll is your best bet. To pack everything you need and keep your clothes wrinkle-free, try the Ranger Rolling  technique, where you fold one end of the clothing to secure the roll.

3. Bring Spare Socks

The secret to fuss-free (and blister-free) traveling often lies in the simplest things, like bringing an extra pair of socks in your carry-on. Long flights can take a toll on your feet with limited legroom and the risk of sweating, so a spare pair of socks can come in handy once you land.

Want more travel tips? Be sure to sign up for our free newsletter .

4. Search Flights in the Airline's Original Language

"I once saved $700 booking tickets in Peru by using Spanish rather than English," a frugal Redditor  shares. This brilliant hack is worth trying, especially for international trips. 

5. Download Offline Maps

Make sure to download the offline map of the city you are visiting. Some destinations are not great with free Wi-Fi, and using offline maps means you’ll never get lost — even without the internet. 

6. Ask Locals, Not Concierges

Here’s another genius travel hack, straight from the globetrotters of Reddit — and it makes perfect sense.

"Want to know where the best meal near your hotel is? The cleaner isn't getting a kickback from the nearest steakhouse, but the concierge probably is," one Redditor reveals.

"I worked the desk at a hotel and got lots of kickbacks. Domino's gave us free pizza every time we sent 10 people. A brewery gave us a token for a free beer per customer sent," another Redditor confirms .

To get a truly authentic suggestion without any agenda, ask someone who genuinely likes the place they are suggesting.

7. Wake Up Super Early

The thing with popular destinations is that everyone wants to visit the same places at the same time, which often results in ridiculously crowded landmarks. To avoid waiting forever for an inch of empty space to snap a photo, wake up before everyone and visit the popular spots.

8. Book the Best Room in a Cheaper Hotel

To get more luxury for less money, opt for a suite in a budget hotel instead of an economy room in an expensive five-star hotel. With the money you save, you can splurge on experiences or meals that make your trip even more memorable.

9. Carry a Small Extension Cord

A three-port extension cord is your best travel buddy as you can charge all your devices easily, even in inconvenient spots.

10. Use the Traveling Pillow for Extra Clothes

This is a great hack if you’re a backpacker or traveling with just a carry-on but want to bring more clothes. Use a travel pillowcase as an extra bag and stuff it with clothes that won’t fit in your suitcase. It provides the same comfort as an actual pillow, saves space, and lightens your load for the trip back.

11. Pack Old Clothes

This is another nifty trick for those dealing with limited luggage space. Pack clothes you were planning to get rid of, wear them once or twice, then donate them. You can hand them to someone in need on the street or ask your hotel for the nearest organization that accepts clothing donations. Not only will you free up space for souvenirs or new clothes from your trip, but you'll also be doing something good along the way.

12. Remove Earphones at Airports

Just don’t be that person. Take out your earphones to hear important flight and gate announcements.

13. Bring Almost-Empty Toiletries

Our ultimate advice would be to not bring toiletries at all, since every hotel, hostel, and Airbnb will probably provide you with some. But if you must bring some, go for the half-empty bottles. Use them up, then toss them to free up space for your trip back.

14. Choose the Left Side in Lines

Check-in lines — or any lines at the airport — are one of the most soul-sucking, annoying parts of traveling. To avoid them, you’ll have a better chance by sticking to the left lines. The theory is that most  people are right-handed and subconsciously choose the lines on the right.

15. Withdraw Cash Locally

First of all, never exchange currency at the airport if you want to avoid financial carnage. To save even more, use local ATMs for cash. Just do a little research beforehand to find ATMs that aren't tourist traps, as those tend to charge notorious fees.

16. Allow Buffer Time for Delays

Delays during peak season are more common than you'd like, so always plan for extra time. It will reduce stress and ensure you won’t miss important events.

17. Check Local Subreddits

Local subreddits  are great for travel tips. These are genuine recommendations from locals who know the ins and outs of the area, helping you discover hidden gems and avoid tourist traps.

18. Sit Opposite the Sun

A simple trick for better sleep during flights is choosing the side opposite the sun for less glare. 

19. Pack Essentials in Your Carry-On

Nobody wants to think about their checked luggage getting lost, but it happens. Being prepared can save you a lot of trouble, so always pack your essentials in your carry-on.

20. Research Local Scams

Research common scams at your destination , from taxi overcharging to fake police officers. Check online forums, government travel advisories, and recent travel blogs for up-to-date info. 

21. Download ChatGPT on Your Phone

Download the free version of ChatGPT on your phone and use it like your Type A travel friend who’s done all the homework . It can help you with the language, give you tips about landmarks, warn you about sketchy areas, and give you all the insider info you need.  

22. Bring Food When You Have a Layover

Airport restaurants love to drain your wallet, especially outside the U.S., and the food isn't always worth it. Beat the system by packing a sandwich and a banana or some other snack. This way, you won't end up spending more on food than your plane ticket.

23. Carry a Fake Wallet

A fake wallet with dummy cards can give you a piece of mind when you are traveling. Stash this decoy in an obvious spot, like an outer pocket, and let those potential thieves think they've hit the jackpot.

24. Make a Color Photocopy of Your Passport

I absolutely despise carrying my passport around with me when I travel — it makes me feel uneasy. So this tip from  this  forward thinking Redditor  will come in handy for my next travels. Make a color photocopy of your passport, and keep the original in the hotel safe — it can save you a lot of fuss in case of an emergency.

25. Keep Extra Cash in Your Hotel Room

Stash some "just in case" cash in the hotel room safe or find a hidden spot. That way, if you lose your wallet or it gets stolen, you’re still covered. Also, spread out your credit cards: Keep one in your phone case and another in your wallet.

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.

*** There you have it! My top travel tips! Follow them and you’ll be the best traveler you can be in no time flat!

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)
• InsureMyTrip (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.

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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How to find cheap flights in 2024: Easy tips on how to cut travel costs.

Nothing beats a getaway. Whether you are jet-setting to a far-off destination or catching a quick flight to see family, changing your surroundings can feel great. 

What is not so great, however, is the cost of traveling. Airfare can be the most expensive part of a trip. Trying to save money can seem impossible, and you may ask yourself, "How do I find cheap flights?" 

But there are ways to book a flight without breaking your budget.  

Instead of getting overwhelmed with the planning process and canceling your travels before they even begin, consider the following to help find cheap flights easily.  

How to find cheap flights 

The first rule of finding cheap flights is to be flexible with your travels. While you may want to stick to a strict schedule, this does not help when it comes to pricing.  

Learn more: Best travel insurance

When people travel, they often select their destination and dates of travel before checking pricing. To find the cheapest flights, you have to reverse that process.  

Start by checking applications and sites like Google Flights , Hopper and Skyscanner to see what prices are for your preferred travel locations. From there, you can see what dates have the cheapest options.  

Also, try to book in advance. Do not wait until the last minute to schedule. Around two to three months in advance is the best time to book a flight.If you plan to travel during peak times, such as holidays, around five months is better.

Ask the Captain: All your air-travel questions, answered

What are the best days to book a flight? 

There is no exact best day to book a flight, but there are days considered better than others. Fridays and Mondays tend to be more expensive since that is when most business travelers fly, according to Nomadic Matt.  

Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays are usually the cheapest days to travel on, according to Scott’s Cheap Flights.  

There are also no specific days that flights will be cheaper. Cheap flights can pop up at any time.  

Layover or stopover? What's the difference? Does it matter?

Tips for cheap flights 

While it may feel customary to go to carriers like United or American, do not be afraid to try out budget airlines. From Southwest to Frontier Airlines , there are plenty of alternatives to the name brands, which could be more expensive.  

As mentioned above, it's often best to book peak flight times several months in advance. If you want to be proactive, try to schedule your trip around those times if possible.  

For example, peak travel times from the U.S. to Europe are from mid-June through mid-August, as well as Christmas through New Year’s Eve. Consider booking during off times to save money, according to Scott’s Cheap Flights.  

Flying direct can make your travels shorter, but prices may be higher than if you took a connecting layover. Rome2Rio can help you find the best way to get from a nearby airport to your final destination.  

Just Curious for more? We've got you covered

USA TODAY is exploring the questions you and others ask every day. From " How quick can I get a passport? " to " What is the smallest country? " to " What is the cheapest days to fly? ", we're striving to find answers to the most common questions you ask every day. Head to our  Just Curious section  to see what else we can answer for you.

21 Aug 2024 - 6 min read

7 Affordable Hotel Recommendations in Parañaque

Exploring the city of Parañaque in the Philippines can be a delightful way to experience the uniqueness and culture of this country. This vibrant city offers a variety of attractions, such as the dazzling City of Dreams Manila and the luxurious Okada Manila Resort & Casino, both of which promise an exceptional blend of entertainment and luxury.

For those interested in historical and religious sites, the iconic Redemptorist Church in Baclaran and the Parañaque Church & Cathedral offer a glimpse into the city's rich spiritual heritage. Nature enthusiasts will find tranquillity at the serene Manila Bay Beach, where you can enjoy stunning sunsets and the gentle sea breeze. Additionally, the Las Piñas-Parañaque Critical Habitat and Ecotourism area is a must-visit for ecotourists, as it is the only remaining mangrove forest along Coastal Road. This area not only provides a sanctuary for various wildlife species but also serves as the perfect spot for nature walks and bird watching.

A visit to Parañaque wouldn't be complete without sampling the local cuisine at the city's numerous restaurants and cafes, which serve a wide array of traditional Filipino dishes. When planning your trip, it’s important to consider your accommodation options. For backpackers and budget travellers, finding affordable yet comfortable hotels is essential. In this guide, we will recommend seven budget-friendly hotels in Parañaque that offer excellent service and amenities to make your stay enjoyable.

Affordable Hotel Recommendations in Parañaque

Hotel Sogo Macapagal

For those seeking comfortable travel on a budget, Hotel Sogo Macapagal is an excellent choice. This hotel offers decent facilities and great service for business events, corporate meetings, and family holidays. If you plan to stay long-term, the hotel will make you feel at home with its complete facilities and quality service. Hotel Sogo Macapagal is also ideal for travellers who value privacy during their stay. The 24-hour reception is ready to serve you from check-in to check-out, and provide any assistance needed. WiFi is available in public areas to ensure you stay connected with family and friends. The hotel is strategically located in Don Galo, close to Terminal 4 of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), just 2.46 km away, and 6.23 km from Manila Yacht Club. It is also near Middle Side Barracks (46.3 km) and Limay Municipal Hall (42.78 km).

Manila Airport Hotel by Urban Connect

Staying at the Manila Airport Hotel by Urban Connect is a great choice when visiting Vitalez. The hotel has a very strategic location, close to Terminal 4 of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), only 1.75 km away, and just 6.21 km from Manila Yacht Club. The hotel is also easy to find due to its strategic location near public facilities.

Oyster Plaza Hotel

Staying at the Oyster Plaza Hotel is an excellent choice when visiting San Dionisio. This hotel is well-located, being only 3.68 km away from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL), and easily accessible due to its strategic location around public facilities. For those seeking comfortable travel on a budget, Oyster Plaza Hotel is the ideal place with good facilities and excellent service. The hotel is suitable as a stopover while waiting for the next flight with easy access to the airport.

San Dionisio

Red Planet Manila Aseana City

Red Planet Manila Aseana City, located in Aseana City, is an ideal choice for budget travellers. This hotel offers good facilities and the best services to ensure your comfort throughout your stay. The 24-hour reception is ready to assist you from check-in to check-out and provide access to WiFi in public areas to keep you connected. You can also enjoy exclusive special dishes at Red Planet Manila Aseana City. With all the facilities offered, this hotel is the perfect place to stay with comfort and the best amenities.

Aseana City

DG Grami Hotel

DG Grami Hotel, located at Lot 1 Blk7, Goodwill 3 Subd, Grami Hotel Bldg, Dr. Arcadio Santos Ave, Sucat, Parañaque, 1700 Metro Manila, Philippines, is a two-star hotel with complete and comfortable facilities that can be your choice for enjoying the atmosphere of Parañaque City. The main advantages of this place are its friendly and accommodating staff. There is also reliable cable TV and a stable internet connection. Hot water for bathing is also available for guests.

RedDoorz Kassel Residences Paranaque

RedDoorz Kassel Residences Paranaque, located at E Rodriguez Ave, Parañaque, 1709 Metro Manila, Philippines, is a budget-friendly hotel for travellers on a budget. This hotel offers a strategic location with easy access to various interesting places around, such as Big C Supermarket (1.42 km), Ninoy Aquino International Airport (1.83 km), Anytime Fitness (2.24 km), and SM Cinema Sucat SM City Sucat (2.54 km). With adequate facilities and affordable rates, RedDoorz Kassel Residences Paranaque is a suitable economical and comfortable accommodation choice in Parañaque City.

RedDoorz @ Kassel Residences Paranaque

Go Hotels Manila Airport Road

Go Hotels Manila Airport Road, located near Baclaran Market (0.9 miles), Solaire Resort and Casino (1.1 miles), and St. Andrew's Cathedral (1.2 miles), is a modern hotel in Parañaque City offering free wireless internet, meeting rooms, and massage services. Its location is close to popular tourist attractions around and can be reached by walking from Asia World LRT Station. This three-star hotel offers a 24-hour reception, luggage storage, and a lift. The rooms are equipped with air conditioning, private bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and bottled water. All rooms come with a safe and a desk. The area around Go Hotels Manila Airport Road is well-known for its shopping centres. The Cultural Centre of the Philippines, SM Mall of Asia, and Mall of Asia Arena can be reached with a short drive from this hotel.

Tips for Finding Comfortable and Affordable Hotels

To make your trip even more convenient, book your tickets and accommodations through Traveloka. With Traveloka , you can find the best deals on any tickets, nearby hotels, flights and more tourist attractions . Plus, you can read reviews and get travel tips to ensure you make the most of your visit. Start planning your adventure today with Traveloka and enjoy a hassle-free memorable trip!

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