Last Updated on October 30, 2019 by Candy Wafford
“Travel is the only thing you buy, that makes you richer.” I’m not sure who said this, but truer words have never been written. While traveling can be expensive, it doesn’t have to be. Read on to see some of my favorite ways to save money while traveling. And the less I spend on travel, the more I can travel!
Book Flights First
If flying, airfare is probably going to be one of the largest items in your travel budget. Book flights first finding the best airfare and then book lodging and activities.
If your dates are flexible, use tools on search engines to search by price for a range of dates and book accordingly. I find the Explore Destinations and Track Price features on Google Flights super helpful in figuring out where and when it is the cheapest to fly.
Travel in Shoulder Season
My favorite months to travel are May, September, and October. Prices are not only less expensive, but popular destinations are not as busy and the weather is generally mild in the US and Europe. If your schedule allows, try to travel in the off-season to save major dollars.
Consider All Transportation Options
One of my favorite things about traveling to Europe is the accessibility of train travel. But, believe it or not, trains are sometimes more expensive than flying. We flew between Madrid and Barcelona a few years ago for less than train tickets would have cost and the amount of time for both was about the same.
In Costa Rica, we opted to fly from the mountains to the coast because it was about the same cost as hiring a driver and gave us the experience of traveling in a tiny plane. The adventure of the plane ride, the breathtaking views, and the speed at which we got to our next destination made this one of our best decisions on the trip.
Loyalty / Status Programs
I didn’t realize the value of loyalty programs until I started traveling for work. My company allows me to keep the points and miles I earn for hotels, flights, and car rentals. Which is an AMAZING perk of my job!
It pays to be loyal to certain airlines, hotels, and other travel companies. Not only do you often earn points that can be used for free flights, rooms, rentals, etc. but you often earn status that offers additional rewards. My hotel status includes access to lounges which have free breakfast, soft drinks and snacks, and often appetizers in the evening.
Another perk is receiving upgrades on hotel rooms, flights, and rental cars. Occasionally I am upgraded to a hotel room with an incredible view that I wouldn’t have been willing to pay for. I’m still waiting on the first-class upgrade on an international flight.
Vacation Rentals
I’m a big fan of vacation rentals, especially when traveling internationally. My family of three has difficulty finding hotel rooms overseas that accommodate all of us in one room. And when I am able to find a triple, the room rate is higher. So I started booking vacation rentals and not only do we have a larger pool of options but renting an apartment provides us more space than a traditional hotel room.
We appreciate having a small kitchen where we can store drinks and snacks which also saves us money. Many rentals also offer laundry facilities which can come in handy if you are traveling for a longer period of time or just want to pack less.
But my favorite thing about staying in a vacation rental is that it offers a more authentic experience. Staying in a home allows me to fantasize that I’m a local, even if just for a few days.
Airbnb is the most widely known vacation rental, but VRBO is another option in the US. I have booked with them several times for girlfriend getaways and larger family gatherings.
Use Public Transportation
I don’t like to rent cars when traveling. I don’t want the bother of driving in a new place, dealing with traffic, and paying for parking and gas. My preference is to use public transportation as often as possible. In large cities, using the subway will always be cheaper, you will get to spend more time with locals, and you will get places more quickly.
Worried about getting lost? My maps app includes public transportation and most major cities will have at least one app available with maps that can be used offline. After using subways throughout the US and Europe, I have found that there is always someone willing to help point you in the right direction.
Travel Tip – Since service can be spotty underground, look up directions before getting on the train. Then take screenshots so you will always have the directions available.
Consider All Transportation Options
One of my favorite things about traveling to Europe is the accessibility of train travel. But, believe it or not, trains are sometimes more expensive than flying. We flew between Madrid and Barcelona a few years ago for less than train tickets would have cost.
In Costa Rica, we opted to fly from the mountains to the coast because it was about the same cost as hiring a driver and gave us the experience of traveling in a tiny plane. The adventure of the plane ride, the breathtaking views, and the speed at which we got to our next destination made this one of our best decisions on the trip.
Sign Up for Discounts
You can check Groupon for special offers to the location you will be traveling to. I’ve done this before to purchase coupons for tours and meals and even found a Groupon to use on a trip to Ireland. A great way to plan ahead and save some money!
Use Carry-On Luggage
Traveling with carry-on luggage can help you save a ton of money. The amount you spend on checking a couple of bags can easily pay for a tour or a nice dinner (or two). Worried you can’t fit everything you need in a carry-on? You can find some of my favorite space-saving packing gear here.
Travel Tip – If you absolutely need to check a bag, consider only checking one and having the other people in your group use carry-on bags.
Parking (or not) at the Airport
Parking rates at airports are expensive, even in long-term parking. Depending on where you live, you may find that it’s cheaper to take an Uber to and from the airport.
Another option is to see if the hotels near your airport offer Park Sleep Fly Hotels will often allow guests to park at the hotel before a flight. The cost of a hotel room may be less than parking for a week or more at the airport. Some hotel airports also offer paid parking that is a less expensive option than using airport parking. The hotel will provide shuttle services to and from the airport making this a great money-saving option.
Travel Tip – Check to see if your status with a hotel allows you to park your car for free at the hotel.
Save Money on Food
At the Airport
Travel with a refillable water bottle. The best way to stay hydrated while flying is to drink lots of water. The easiest and least expensive way to do that is to bring a refillable water bottle and fill it before you board the plane. No need to pay $4 for a bottle of water. And it’s better for the planet!
Pack snacks for the airport and flight. Airport food and snacks are crazy expensive. Bringing your own food means you will have something you like while saving you money.
On Your Trip
If staying in a hotel, book one that includes free breakfast. In a rental, use the refrigerator and kitchen to prepare simple meals and save money on food. As much as I love to cook, eating out is one of the best parts of traveling. So I like to save money on breakfast by visiting a grocery and buying easy grab and go foods and saving my vacation dollars for a nice dinner out.
Most countries and cultures have street food that is not only delicious but inexpensive. Look for markets, food trucks, and local vendors to purchase meals on the go. One of my favorite food memories from a recent cruise to Alaska was the Filipino food we purchased from a food cart and ate in the park. Not only will you spend less eating street food, but you will also get to experience local food.
What are some of your favorite ways to save money while traveling?
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