Money-Saving Tips to Help You Travel for Less

Traveling is an excellent way to see the world and experience new things, but without careful planning, the cost of plane tickets, hotels, and activities can quickly add up. Thankfully, you don't need to spend a fortune to embark on the trip of your dreams.

Finding Low-Cost Accommodations and Airfare

Vacationing during peak travel times, such as around the holidays and summer months, can be prohibitively expensive. Instead, plan your trip in the off season and you could lower your travel costs by hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Traveling on the weekends can be pricey, so try to book airfare and hotels from Tuesday to Thursday to avoid the upcharge. If you're willing to forgo the usual hotel, you can save even more by sharing a room with others in a hostel, staying with friends and family, or camping in a tent outdoors. You may even be able to find free accommodations through a couch sharing service, which allows you to stay in a host's private home at no cost to you.

Smart Ways to Save on Your Trip

Meals can be one of the biggest expenses of any vacation. Avoid popular restaurants in major tourist areas and instead, ask locals for their recommendations on where to eat. These restaurants may be lesser-known and can offer cheaper meals than you'd find elsewhere. To save on activities, look for free things to do, such as going to beaches, national parks, and museums. When out and about, skip the taxi and seek out local public transportation, which is much cheaper. You can also save cash by vacationing in a spot that's easy to navigate on foot or by bike.