You’ve done it! You’ve finally figured out how to maximize your days off and now you’re ready to plan that awesome vacation! But then you look at the cost of airfare and hotels and think maybe you don’t really want to travel that badly after all. Why does travel have to be so darn expensive?!
We’ve got good news for you. No, it’s not a free 7-day cruise around the Caribbean. But if you want to cut costs on travel and still make the most of your vacation, here’s the best way to save money on every line item in your budget.
Airfare: Use Google Flights to find cheap options everywhere
If you just want a cheap getaway or you have a specific destination in mind, but want to know when it’s cheapest to visit – Google Flights is your best bet. The Explore tab will give you recommended affordable flights based on your travel window, and the search calendar shows the lowest possible fares based on the number of days you have available for travel.
Accommodation: Forego the all-inclusive and opt for a more authentic experience instead
Unless you’re on your honeymoon or a luxury rejuvenating getaway, chances are you don’t really need the all inclusive experience. For the most affordable accommodation option, your best best is AirBnb – especially if you’re traveling with family or friends. However, if you still want all the room service and customer service experience of a hotel, budget chains like Motel 6, Red Roof Inn and Best Western provide a comfortable, clean experience at an affordable price.
Food & Drink: One fancy dinner is all you need
One of the best things about travel is experiencing the food, but that doesn’t mean dining out at fancy restaurant every single night. Splurge on one good meal at a nice restaurant, then look for affordable options frequented by locals the rest of the time. Your AirBnb host or hotel front desk will be able to give you recommendations. And if you’re really in a pinch, go to the local supermarket or deli and grab a sandwich. It may not be ideal, but it will fill you up until the next meal.
Transportation: Do whatever the locals do
Renting a car or grabbing an Uber everywhere is definitely the most convenient option when traveling, but that will add hundreds to your travel bill. Instead, opt for taking the train, tram or bus at least some of the time to mitigate those costs. And if your next stop is close enough, just take a walk! It’s the best way to see a city.
Sightseeing: Splurge on the must-sees, skip everything else
If you’re not into museums or churches, don’t spend money going to museums or churches when you travel just because someone on TripAdvisor said it was a “magical experience”. Identify 2 or 3 must-see attractions, then only visit others if you have the time and money to do so. Don’t guilt yourself out of a fun trip by trusting a guidebook over your gut.
Souvenirs: Skip the souvenirs shop and head to the market
Don’t wait until you get to the airport heading home to pick up souvenirs for yourself or loved ones. Instead, head to a market or area frequented by locals. Chances are you’ll find much more meaningful and authentic gifts, such as clothing, art and local foods, at much more affordable prices. More importantly, these are things your recipients will actually use regularly, and just put on shelf to collect dust.
Leave a Reply