Traveling can be an expensive proposition. However, using some smartness and strategy can result in considerable savings. Below are some money-saving travel hacks that can make your trips affordable and more enjoyable.
- Flexible Dates and Destinations
Instead of sticking to specific dates or destinations, being flexible allows you to capitalize on cheaper flights and accommodations. Tools like Skyscanner’s ‘Everywhere’ and Kayak’s ‘Explore’ feature help you find cheap flights to various destinations on your intended travel dates.
- Incognito Browser for Booking
Airlines and hotels often use cookies to show higher prices for the routes and accommodations you’re interested in. Browsing incognito can help you avoid this increase in prices. This simple trick can save you a substantial amount of money.
- Take Advantage of Flight Price Drop Refunds
Some airlines and ticket booking websites offer price drop protection, where you can claim a refund if the ticket cost drops after you have booked it. Yapta and Orbitz are popular platforms that offer such services.
- Book Connecting Flights Separately
Sometimes, booking two or more connecting flights separately can be cheaper than booking a single ticket for the entire journey. Make sure you have ample time between flights for potential delays. Skiplagged and Kiwi.com help you find such options.
- Use Rewards, Discounts, and Cashbacks
Take advantage of airline rewards, hotel loyalty programs, credit card points, discount codes, and cashback offers. Websites like Points and The Points Guy help you get more out of your credit card points and frequent flyer miles.
- Choose Local SIM Over Roaming
International roaming charges can be astronomical. Get a local SIM card instead and make sure your phone is unlocked. This is usually cheaper and gives you better connectivity.
- Check Multi-city Flight Price
Instead of returning to your departure city, see if making your last destination your return city is cheaper. On booking platforms, select the ‘Multi-city’ option for this.
- Utilize Free City Tours
Many cities offer free walking tours at popular tourist sites. This can be an excellent way to explore a city without spending much. Websites like FreeTour.com and Strawberry Tours offer such services worldwide.
- Pack Snacks and Refillable Bottles
Saves money by bringing your snacks and refillable water bottle. In many countries, tap water is potable and can save you from buying bottled water, significantly reducing your expenses.
- Choose Alternatives to Hotels
Consider holiday house swaps, apartment rentals, student residences, monasteries, and hostels instead of expensive hotels. Websites like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Couchsurfing offer budget-friendly accommodations globally.
- Use Public Transportation
Using public transportation can significantly reduce your travel expenses. Google Maps can help you navigate public transportation in most places worldwide.
- Meals Off the Beaten Path
Restaurants in tourist areas often have a substantial mark-up on prices. Walking a few blocks away can lead you to local joints that offer cheaper and more authentic food.
- Travel in the Off-season
Travelling in the shoulder season or off-season can lead to substantial savings in airfare and accommodations while also reducing the crowds.
- Use Student/Youth/Senior Discounts
Many attractions offer discounts for students, youths, or seniors. Ensure to carry your ID or any relevant proof to avail of these.
- Free Museum Days
Many museums worldwide offer free or discounted admissions on specific days or hours. Log onto their official website ahead of your visit to check these.
- Use Flight Comparison Sites
Use flight comparison sites (like Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Momondo) to find the best deals on flights. Comparing fares across multiple platforms is always beneficial.
- Best Day to Book Flights
Various studies suggest that midweek is generally the best time to book flights. Prices tend to increase towards the weekend.
- Split Your Trip
It might be cheaper to book two return tickets from different airports than one round trip from the same airport. This can particularly save money on long-haul flights.
- Try Couchsurfing
Couchsurfing not only offers you a free place to stay but also gives you an authentic local experience and a chance to meet new people.
- Credit Card with No Foreign Transaction Fee
Foreign transaction fees can add a significant amount to your expenses. Having a credit card with no foreign transaction fees can save you a lot of money.
Traveling doesn’t have to be exorbitant. By implementing these travel hacks, you can significantly reduce the cost of your trips and enjoy your travels without burning a hole in your pocket.
