Travelling More While Spending Less

Traveling is one of the most enriching experiences life has to offer. It opens your mind to new cultures, foods, and ways of living — but for many, the biggest barrier is cost. The good news? You don’t need to be wealthy to see the world. With the right strategies, you can travel more often without breaking the bank.

This guide breaks down practical, money-saving travel tips so you can plan more trips, stretch your budget, and make your wanderlust dreams a reality.

1. Travel During the Shoulder Season

Why It Works:
Peak travel season means higher prices for flights, accommodations, and even attractions. Traveling during the shoulder season the time between high and low seasons can save you hundreds.

How to Do It:

• Research the busiest travel months for your destination and avoid them.

• Choose times when the weather is still pleasant but fewer tourists are around (e.g., May or September in Europe).

• Bonus: Attractions are less crowded, so you get a better experience.

2. Be Flexible With Your Dates and Destinations

Why It Works:
Flight and hotel prices fluctuate daily. Flexibility allows you to take advantage of deals instead of being locked into expensive dates.

How to Do It:

• Use fare search tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak to view the cheapest dates.

• Consider alternative airports — flying into a smaller city and taking a train can be cheaper than flying direct.

• Let price dictate your trip — search “Everywhere” on Skyscanner and see where’s cheapest to fly next month.

3. Sign Up for Flight Deal Alerts

Why It Works:
Airlines often run flash sales, but they sell out quickly. Signing up for alerts means you’ll be among the first to know.

How to Do It:

• Subscribe to sites like Scott’s Cheap Flights, Dollar Flight Club, or Secret Flying.

• Set custom alerts for your favorite destinations.

• Act fast — the best deals don’t last long.

4. Use Points and Miles

Why It Works:
Travel hacking through credit card rewards and airline loyalty programs can score you free or discounted flights and hotels.

How to Do It:

• Sign up for a travel rewards credit card that offers a generous sign-up bonus.

• Always pay your balance in full to avoid interest charges.

• Join airline and hotel loyalty programs, they’re free and often include perks like upgrades and free nights.

5. Book Accommodation Strategically

Why It Works:
Hotels aren’t always the cheapest option and sometimes, alternative accommodations offer better experiences.

How to Do It:

• Compare prices on sites like Booking.com, Airbnb.

• Consider staying slightly outside the main tourist area, prices drop significantly just a few metro stops away.

• If traveling with friends or family, a vacation rental with a kitchen can save you money on meals.

6. Travel Overnight

Why It Works:
Overnight trains, buses, or flights can save you a night’s hotel cost and give you more time at your destination.

How to Do It:

• Check for sleeper trains and night buses between cities.

• Book red-eye flights for long-haul travel.

• Always pack a travel pillow and earplugs for comfort.

7. Eat Like a Local

Why It Works:
Restaurants in tourist areas are often overpriced. Eating where locals eat not only saves money but also gives you a more authentic taste of the culture.

How to Do It:

• Ask hotel staff or Airbnb hosts where they eat.

• Visit food markets and street food stalls.

• Have your main meal at lunch when restaurants often offer cheaper set menus.

8. Use Public Transportation

Why It Works:
Taxis and rideshares add up quickly. Public transit is cheaper, and in many cities, it’s faster.

How to Do It:

• Research bus, tram, or subway systems before your trip.

• Get multi-day or unlimited passes for better value.

• Consider walking, you’ll see more of the city and save money.

9. Plan Free and Low-Cost Activities

Why It Works:
Many cities have incredible experiences that don’t cost a thing.

How to Do It:

• Search for “free things to do in [city]” before you go.

• Visit free museums, public parks, and street festivals.

• Join free walking tours (tip your guide).

10. Limit Baggage Fees

Why It Works:
Checked bag fees can add $50–$100 to your trip.

How to Do It:

• Pack light and travel with a carry-on.

• Learn to mix and match clothing to make fewer items go further.

• Use packing cubes to organize and save space.

11. Combine Trips to Save on Flights

Why It Works:
If you’re already flying internationally, you can often add extra destinations for less than booking separate trips.

How to Do It:

• Use multi-city search options on booking sites.

• Consider stopover programs, airlines like Icelandair and Singapore Airlines let you stay in their hub city for free or cheap.

12. Take Advantage of City Tourist Passes

Why It Works:
If you plan to see multiple attractions, city passes can save you money.

How to Do It:

• Research if your destination offers a pass that bundles museum, transportation, and attraction tickets.

• Calculate whether it’s worth the price based on your itinerary.

13. Track Your Spending While Traveling

Why It Works:
It’s easy to overspend when you’re in vacation mode.

How to Do It:

• Use apps like Trail Wallet or Mint to monitor expenses.

• Set a daily budget and stick to it.

• Keep cash in envelopes labeled by day or activity.

Travel Smart, Travel Often

Travel doesn’t have to be a luxury reserved for the wealthy. By being flexible, strategic, and resourceful, you can travel more often for less money. The world is full of incredible experiences, and with the right approach, you can enjoy them without draining your bank account.

So start planning, stay open to new possibilities, and watch how far your travel budget can take you.