23 Proven Ways to Save Money While Traveling

23 Proven Ways to Save Money While Traveling

Travel doesn’t have to drain your wallet — in fact, smart travel opens the door to MORE experiences for LESS money. Here are 23 tried-and-tested ways to stretch your budget while still enjoying memorable adventures.

1. Travel During Shoulder Season
Avoid peak crowds and inflated prices by choosing the months just before or after high season.

2. Use Budget Airlines Wisely
Compare baggage fees, seat selection costs, and fare rules — sometimes the add-ons cost more than the flight.

3. Set Fare Alerts
Tools like Google Flights help you catch price drops instantly.

4. Consider Overnight Transit
Save on a night’s accommodation while covering long distances.

5. Stay in Hostels or Guesthouses
Many offer private rooms at a fraction of hotel prices.

6. Book Longer Stays
Weekly or monthly discounts on Airbnb can save you huge amounts.

7. Cook Some of Your Meals
Even making breakfast at your Airbnb can save a surprising amount.

8. Eat Like a Local
Skip tourist restaurants — street food and neighborhood cafés offer better prices AND better flavor.

9. Use City Tourist Cards
They often include public transit + museum entries.

10. Walk Whenever Possible
It’s free and the best way to really see a city.

11. Use Public Transportation
Local buses and metros cost far less than taxis.

12. Bring a Refillable Water Bottle
Avoid paying for bottled water multiple times a day.

13. Take Free Walking Tours
Tip what you feel — but the experience is excellent.

14. Travel With a Group
Split accommodation, transport, or activity costs.

15. Use Credit Cards With No Foreign Transaction Fees
Save 3–5% on every purchase.

16. Get a Local SIM Card
Avoid expensive roaming charges.

17. Check Your Bank’s International Withdrawal Policies
Find a partner bank to avoid ATM fees.

18. Avoid Airport Currency Exchanges
Use ATMs in the city for better rates.

19. Pack Smart to Avoid Extra Fees
Paying for overweight luggage is easily avoidable.

20. Pre-Book Popular Attractions
You’ll often get lower prices and skip long lines.

21. Choose Destinations With a Lower Cost of Living
Your money stretches MUCH further in certain regions.

22. Use Loyalty Programs
Earn free flights, nights, or upgrades faster than you think.

23. Track Your Daily Spending
A simple note on your phone can help you avoid overspending.

Travel Smart, Not Expensive
Saving money while traveling isn’t about cutting joy — it’s about spending intentionally. When you know how to control your budget, you unlock the freedom to explore more places, try more experiences, and travel more often.