10 Great Tips on How to Save Money When You Travel

RHilario

11/27/20238 min read

woman walking on street surrounded by buildings

Traveling is an enriching experience that allows us to explore new places, learn about different cultures, and create lasting memories. However, it can also be an expensive endeavor if we're not careful with our spending. In this article, we'll share 10 great tips on how to save money when you travel, ensuring that you can enjoy your adventures without breaking the bank.

Statistics show that travelers spend a significant amount of money each year. However, by following the tips mentioned above, you can be part of the savvy group of travelers who manage to save money while still experiencing the wonders of the world.

Traveling on a budget has always been our ways since the beginning. I've learned a lot from my sister-in-law. When my wife and I were just starting a family, traveling has not been our main priority. Most of the time we spent vacations and trips joining family by invitation. My sister-in-law has always been the main instigator for our trips and vacations during those phase. You could say that I learned a lot from her. I used to get embarrassed on her approach but now I realised that there are a lot to be learned from her approach. So, here are my 10 great tips on how to save money when you travel and when you go on vacation.

1. Plan and Book in Advance

One of the simplest ways to save money on travel is to plan and book your trip well in advance. By doing so, you can take advantage of early bird discounts, promotional offers, and cheaper accommodation options. Planning trips in advance is essential for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

Firstly, it is important to decide on the destination and research about the best time to visit, local customs, and attractions. This will help in creating an itinerary that suits your interests and preferences.

Secondly, booking flights and accommodations early not only ensures availability but also allows you to grab the best deals and discounts. It is also recommended to make a list of essential items to pack, including necessary documents, clothing, and toiletries.

Furthermore, researching transportation options and local transportation systems beforehand can save time and money during the trip. Lastly, budgeting and setting aside funds for expenses like meals, activities, and souvenirs is crucial. By following these tips, planning trips in advance becomes an enjoyable process that guarantees a memorable and hassle-free journey.

2. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates

The cost of travel can vary based on a variety of factors, including the time of year, holidays, and special events. Here are some periods and dates that are generally associated with higher travel costs:

Peak Holiday Seasons:
- Christmas and New Year's (late December to early January)
- Easter/Spring Break (dates vary, usually March or April)
- Thanksgiving (late November)
Summer Vacation:
- June to August, especially for destinations popular with families.
Major Events and Festivals:
- Certain cities and regions host major events or festivals that can drive up travel costs. Examples include:
  - Cannes Film Festival (May)
  - Oktoberfest in Munich (late September to early October)
  - Rio Carnival (February/March)
School Vacation Periods:
- Travel costs often rise during school vacation periods, such as spring break and summer vacation.
National Holidays:
- Traveling during a country's national holidays may lead to higher prices. For example, Independence Day in the United States (July 4th).
Special Anniversaries or Celebrations:
- If a destination is celebrating a significant anniversary or hosting a major celebration, prices may be higher during that period.
High-Profile Sporting Events:
- Events like the World Cup, Olympics, or major sports championships can result in

If your schedule allows, try to be flexible with your travel dates. Avoiding peak travel seasons and opting for mid-week flights can often result in significant savings on airfare and accommodation.

3. Consider Alternative Accommodation

Instead of staying in expensive hotels, consider alternative accommodation options such as hostels, guesthouses, or vacation rentals. These options are often more budget-friendly and can provide a unique and authentic travel experience.

When going on a trip, there are various examples of alternative accommodations available. Instead of staying in a traditional hotel, one option is to rent a vacation home or apartment. This allows travelers to have more space and privacy, as well as access to a kitchen for cooking meals. Another alternative is staying in a bed and breakfast, which offers a cozy and home-like atmosphere with personalized service. For those seeking a unique experience, there are also options such as staying in a treehouse, a yurt, or even a houseboat. These alternative accommodations can provide a different perspective and add excitement to the trip. However, it is important to thoroughly research and consider the location, amenities, and reviews before making a booking decision.

4. Use Public Transportation

Utilizing public transportation, such as buses or trains, is not only cost-effective but also allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture. Research the public transportation options available at your destination and plan your itinerary accordingly. However, there are times that you may need to Rent a car.

For example, even Singapore has a well-developed and efficient public transportation system. The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) is a popular mode of transport, with an extensive network of trains that cover most parts of the city. In addition to the MRT, there is also a comprehensive bus system that serves various routes across the island. Both the MRT and buses are known for their punctuality and cleanliness. Singapore also offers other modes of public transportation such as taxis and private hire cars. The city-state's transportation system is well-regulated and provides convenient options for residents and tourists alike. With the easy accessibility and reliability of public transportation in Singapore, getting around the city is convenient and hassle-free.

In the United State, public transportation is way of life - practically everywhere. The United States department of transportation is continually upgrading its transportation infrastructure. You might have heard in the news that the present administration (2020 -2024) has increased its infrastructure budget. "President Biden signed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (“BIL”) into law. The BIL directs $1.2 trillion of federal funds towards transportation...". As we speak, Amtrak, the primary passenger train company in the United States, is upgrading its train systems to keep up with the European standards especially in speed.

In the Philippines, the government has built ( and still is) new roads, bridges, tunnels, network of rails system to support its growing population

Suffice it to say that public transportation is available globally and you can definitely save money by using them.

5. Cook Your Own Meals

Eating out for every meal can quickly add up. To save money, consider cooking some of your meals in your accommodation. Visit local markets and grocery stores to buy fresh ingredients and experience the local cuisine in a more affordable way.

6. Research Free or Low-Cost Activities

Before your trip, research the free or low-cost activities available at your destination. Many museums, parks, and cultural sites offer discounted or free admission on certain days or times. Take advantage of these opportunities to explore and learn without spending a fortune.

For example, Paris, the City of Lights, offers numerous free or low-cost activities for visitors to enjoy. Take a leisurely stroll along the Seine River, where you can marvel at the iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral. Explore the charming neighborhoods of Montmartre and Le Marais, with their narrow streets and vibrant atmosphere. Visit the many parks and gardens scattered throughout the city, like the Jardin du Luxembourg or the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, perfect for a picnic or a relaxing afternoon. Don't miss out on the opportunity to visit the world-renowned museums such as the Louvre or Musée d'Orsay, which offer free entry on certain days or for specific exhibitions. Indulge in the local culinary delights by visiting the bustling food markets or trying out a traditional French bakery. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural attractions, Paris has something to offer for every budget.

Free and low cost activities are available in many cities all across the globe.

7. Travel Light

Traveling light not only saves you money but also makes your travel experience more convenient and hassle-free.

One of the best ways to travel light is by packing only the essentials. This means carefully selecting clothing items that are versatile and can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. It is also important to choose lightweight fabrics that take up less space in the suitcase. Toiletries should be kept to a minimum, with only travel-sized products being packed. Another tip is to opt for digital versions of books and maps instead of carrying physical copies. When it comes to electronics, bringing only the necessary devices and their corresponding chargers can significantly reduce the weight of the luggage. Finally, it is crucial to prioritize what is truly needed and avoid overpacking, as this adds unnecessary weight and can make the journey more cumbersome.

8. Use Travel Rewards Programs

There are various examples of travel rewards that can make your journeys even more enjoyable. One popular type of reward is frequent flyer miles, which allow you to accumulate points every time you fly with a specific airline. These points can then be redeemed for free flights or upgrades.

Another common travel reward is hotel loyalty programs, where you earn points for each stay and can later use them for free nights or other perks. Some credit cards also offer travel rewards, such as cashback on travel expenses or the ability to transfer points to airline or hotel partners.

Additionally, travel rewards can include access to airport lounges, priority boarding, or complimentary travel insurance. With so many options available, it's worth exploring different travel rewards programs to maximize the benefits of your trips.

It does take time to accumulate these rewards but it is not too late to start.

9. Stay Connected with Local Wi-Fi

Avoid expensive roaming charges by staying connected with local Wi-Fi networks. Many restaurants, cafes, and accommodations offer free Wi-Fi, allowing you to stay connected with loved ones and access important information without incurring additional costs.

10. Track Your Expenses

Lastly, keep track of your expenses throughout your trip. This will help you identify areas where you may be overspending and make adjustments accordingly. There are various travel expense tracking apps available that can assist you in managing your budget effectively.

By implementing these 10 great tips on how to save money when you travel, you can make your travel dreams a reality without breaking the bank. Remember, traveling doesn't have to be expensive to be enjoyable. With careful planning and budgeting, you can create amazing memories while keeping your finances in check.

So there you go. Hope that this short article will give you ideas but you can definitely figure out something on your own because there are certainly a lot more.

Happy travel!