15 Tips on Saving Money While on Vacation
Traveling is an adventure, but those expenses can add up fast. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your vacation without breaking the bank. Here are 15 Tips on Saving Money While on Vacation:
Travel Off-Season
One of the simplest ways to save on vacation costs is to travel during the off-season. Peak travel times, like summer or holidays, come with inflated prices for flights, hotels, and attractions. Choose a less popular time of year to visit your destination and you’ll find lower prices, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed experience. Do some research and pick the shoulder season when the weather is still good, but costs are significantly lower.
Book Flights in Advance
Booking your flight early is one of the easiest ways to snag a better deal. Generally, the best time to book is between one to three months ahead for domestic trips and three to six months for international travel. Be flexible with your travel dates and use tools like flight comparison websites and apps to monitor prices and set alerts for price drops. Plus, flying mid-week rather than on weekends can often save you money.
Use Public Transportation
Instead of hailing cabs or using rideshare apps, take advantage of public transportation whenever possible. It’s not only budget-friendly but also a great way to see the city from a local’s perspective. One of my favorite memories of Portugal when I was younger was riding the bus and being immersed in the culture. It’s a great way to practice the language. Most cities offer day passes or multi-ride tickets that save you even more. If you’re traveling in Europe, look into using intercity trains and bus services which are often more cost-effective than flights.
Stay in Budget-Friendly Accommodation
While hotels and resorts are nice, they’re not the only option. Consider staying in apartments through platforms like Airbnb or VRBO. For even more savings, you could try house-sitting/ per-sitting, where you stay for free in exchange for taking care of someone’s home or pet. Hostels are not my thing, but lots of people I know love using them. If you’re feeling adventurous, campgrounds or RV rentals can be a fun and budget-friendly way to spend the night.
Eat Like a Local
Dining out for every meal can drain your wallet quickly. Instead, explore food trucks, local markets, food stalls, and small eateries that give you authentic food experiences at a fraction of the price. One of my favorite meals in Saint Martin was when we went to a local market, bought crusty bread, fresh cheese, sliced prosciutto, and local wine and ate it by the pool. If you’re staying somewhere with a kitchen, buy fresh ingredients and prepare your own meals—it’s a great way to save money and experience local flavors. Also, check out restaurants outside the main tourist areas for more affordable prices.
Take Advantage of Free Attractions
Many destinations offer free or low-cost attractions, such as museums, art galleries, parks, and festivals. Take time to research what’s available at your destination and plan your itinerary to include these low-cost activities. Cities like New York, Paris, and London have museums and landmarks with free entry on certain days or evenings, so look out for those opportunities. I always go to Pinterest and search “Free or cheap things to do in ___”
Use Cashback and Rewards Programs
Sign up for cashback and rewards programs from credit cards or apps that give you money back on your spending. When you book flights, accommodations, and excursions, make sure you’re using these programs to maximize your savings. Some travel credit cards also offer perks like free checked bags, airport lounge access, and travel insurance, which can save you even more in the long run. I try to stay at Marriott hotels whenever possible to gain points that I exchange for free rooms. I also love using my AMEX card because it gets me into the Delta lounge.
Stay Outside the Main Tourist Area
Staying right in the heart of the tourist district might be tempting, but it’s often more expensive. Look for accommodations that are slightly outside the main tourist areas but are still within easy reach of public transportation. These places can be more affordable and offer a more authentic experience of what life is like for locals.
Pack Smart
Packing smart means bringing everything you need to avoid costly surprises. Make sure you have essentials like sunscreen, toiletries, and any medications to avoid having to buy them at high tourist prices. Running out of sunscreen at a resort makes me want to cry because I know how expensive it will be. Also, pack snacks and water for long travel days or excursions to avoid paying premium prices at airports or tourist spots.
Use Travel Apps and Deals
Download travel apps that help you find deals, whether on activities, accommodations, or dining. I love TripAdvisor for deals on attractions and excursions. I love Expedia for flights and hotels. Hotel.com is also a great site. A little bit of research can go a long way toward keeping your expenses down.
Take Advantage of City Passes
Many popular destinations offer city passes that grant you access to multiple attractions for a reduced price. These passes can be a real money-saver, especially if you plan to visit a lot of museums, historic sites, and tours. Make sure to check which attractions are included and if the pass aligns with your itinerary. I always calculate what I’d spend without the pass to see if it’s worth getting it.
Limit Expensive Activities
While it’s tempting to splurge on activities like guided tours or excursions, pick and choose the ones that offer the most value for your money. Prioritize experiences that are unique to your destination and skip the ones that can be found elsewhere. Save the high-priced activities for once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and opt for free or low-cost activities on other days.
Use a Budget-Friendly Currency Exchange Strategy
When traveling abroad, avoid exchanging money at airports or hotels as they often charge high fees. Instead, use ATMs with low withdrawal fees and try to withdraw larger sums at once to minimize charges. Also, keep an eye on the exchange rate and use currency apps to get the best rate. It’s also a good idea to have some local currency on hand for small purchases and tips.
Avoid Roaming Fees with Wi-Fi and SIM Cards
Avoid the high costs of international roaming by using free Wi-Fi wherever available. Many cafes, hotels, and public spaces offer Wi-Fi, so make sure to take advantage of it. If you need constant access, consider buying a local SIM card or an international eSIM for cheaper data. This can save you a lot on roaming charges and help you stay connected while keeping your budget in check.
Book Attractions and Tours Early
Booking your tours and attractions early can sometimes save you money, especially for popular activities that sell out quickly. Many companies offer discounts for early bookings, or you might find promo codes for specific tours online. Just make sure to compare prices and read reviews to ensure you’re getting a good deal.
All thoughts in this review are the opinion of MyTravelingKids.com. We may have an affiliation with companies in this article, however our opinions are 100% our own.