Are you feeling the need for a vacation but haven’t decided on a destination yet? Don’t worry it’s totally possible while on a budget! Whether you’re unsure where to go or simply love just HAVE to get away, these budget travel tips will help you make the most of your vacation without breaking the bank.
1. Location, Location, Location
When planning a vacation like this, keep an open mind about your destination and travel dates. Websites and apps like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Hopper offer tools to search for flights to multiple destinations and will moniter when flights are the least expensive. Don’t forget to also consider someplace that’s within driving distance, since flights can be expensive.
Frontier and Spirit may have not great reputations, but their flights are often MEGA-inexpensive (sometimes $50 round trip!). Southwest also is an incredible airline that can be fairly inexpensive but third party websites don’t have access to search these flights, so you’ll have to actually search the Southwest site! And please please please, don’t over pack! Don’t get roped into paying for a checked back.
2. Save on the Stay: Saving On Hotel Expenses
One of the most expensive parts of traveling is the stay. Hotels and AirBnb’s will more than likely cost more than the flight to your destination. A couple hacks for you: Travel with a buddy! Splitting the cost with someone else really makes this far more affordable. You can usually find hotel rooms where you can fit four people comfortably, which means splitting the hotel cost four ways! Second, take into consideration the length of stay! Traveling for a week versus a weekend getaway will determine how much the stay costs.
3. Book Travel during Off-Peak Seasons
Opting for off-peak travel can save you a significant amount of money. Destinations are often less crowded during shoulder seasons, and flights and accommodations are generally more affordable. Additionally, you’ll have a more authentic experience as you mingle with locals rather than throngs of tourists. Research the best time to visit your potential destinations and consider exploring during less popular times of the year.
4. Utilize Reward Programs and Travel Points
If you have travel reward credit cards or frequent flyer miles, now is the time to cash them in. Use your accumulated points to book flights, hotels, or rental cars at discounted rates or even for free. Many credit card companies offer sign-up bonuses that can jumpstart your savings, and some have partnerships with travel providers that offer exclusive deals to cardholders.
If you have a credit card with Chase or Capital One, then consider booking through their travel portal to save between 5-10% on flights and hotels!
5. Embrace Local Cuisine and Cheap Activities
Part of the joy of traveling is experiencing new cultures and cuisines. Instead of dining at pricey tourist hotspots, seek out local eateries and street food vendors for authentic and budget-friendly meals. Additionally, check out free activities like going to the beach or on a hike and embracing nature. OR if you’re like me and crave bustling cities with lots to do, check out GoCity and see if there’s a pass for the city you’re visiting. IT’S SO WORTH IT! Also check out discounts for museums (for example, in my Philadelphia Itinerary, I planned to go to the Philadelphia Museum of Art on Friday which has discounts where you can get in for $1 instead of $25!)
Remember, spontaneity can lead to incredible and unforgettable adventures, even on a budget. By using these budget travel tips, you can embark on your unplanned vacation with confidence, knowing that you’re getting the most out of your travel experience without breaking the bank. So pack your bags, embrace the unknown, and get ready for a memorable journey that’s sure to enrich your life!
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