20 Ways to Save Money While Traveling

Traveling doesn’t have to be expensive. Especially when you focus on the right ways to make your travel goals your priority. Follow these 20 ways to save money while traveling and you’ll be able to make your travel goals your reality!passport

You don’t have to be rich to travel well. You just need to make your travel goals your priority and find ways to make it affordable.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler looking to save a few bucks or planning your first adventure, here are 20 ways to save money on travel.

One of my favorite ways to save money when traveling to bigger cities is using CityPASS. You can save up to 50% on some of the best attractions in each city!

20 Ways to Save Money While Traveling

Choose inexpensive destinations. According to Forbes, some of the cheapest destinations in 2018 are Portugal, Zanzibar, Saint Martin, Santa Fe and more. Check out the other low-cost destinations here.

Fly cheap. Budget airlines can be your best friend. They are just as safe as other airlines; the cost is saved in extra amenities during travel.

Get travel rewards. If you use a credit card, ask about travel rewards. If you make your daily purchases on a card with travel points, you can build up significant savings on your travel plans for hotels, flights and even entertainment. You might even be able to earn enough points for these things to be FREE.

Road trip. If you own a reliable vehicle, you have everything you need for a road trip! Just budget for gas, food, and hotel stays or camping fees.

Skip (or limit) restaurants. Bringing your own food with you to cook can help you save money that you would otherwise be spending in restaurants. You don’t have to forgo them completely – just save your outings for the restaurants you really want to experience and cook your own meals other times.

Work abroad. Working while you travel can actually make your trip profitable or at least break even, depending on how you plan it. Consider finding work as a nanny, cleaner, or other job in your destination areas.

Use the sharing economy. The internet has allowed people to share resources and make travel more accessible than ever. Airbnb lets customers rent out their homes. Similar networking groups exist for the sharing of vehicles as well.

Pack light. Less baggage = fewer baggage fees and hassle. Learn to be a minimalist traveler.

Choose cheap or free entertainment. Official parks and many museums on certain days are completely free to the public. Focusing on these types of places can help you save lots of money on entertainment and is completely enjoyable and enriching.

Take advantage of discounts. Are you a student? Do you or your spouse serve in the military? You may be eligible for certain benefits and discounts. Remember to ask about any benefits that may apply to you at hotels, transportation centers, and even stores and restaurants.

Explore package deals. While they’re not always the better deal, sometimes travel packages can help you save money over booking your plane, hotel, and car rental separately so be sure to explore what’s available for your trip.

Save daily. Cutting back on your expenses in your daily life makes thrifty spending a habit and helps you build up cash for your trips.

Work online. If you can work remotely, you might not even have to take off work (or may be able to take off less) to travel, making it a much easier-to-reach goal.

Stay on top of travel deals. Sign up for email newsletters with airlines and travel sites to get notified of special promotions that can help you save money.

Be part of a Couchsurfing network. As you become a more seasoned traveler, your Couchsurfing network builds – which is a great asset to have for any traveler!

Trade house and pet sitting with a friend. Save money on housekeeping and pet sitting fees by trading these duties with a trusted friend or family member. You’ll take care of their stuff when they travel and vice versa.

Borrow luggage. If you travel infrequently, it may not be worth it to you to purchase your own luggage. On the other hand, if you do plan to travel a lot, investing in a high quality set is a great choice as it will last a long time and keep your belongings safer.

Travel off season. Traveling during peak times is always going to be the most expensive, so if you really want to save some money, travel to your destination at less popular times of the year.

Swap homes. Perhaps you have a relative across the country who is also looking to travel? Maybe it would be a good opportunity to swap homes for a certain period of time! You’d each only pay for travel, food, and entertainment and know your house was being looked after.

Talk to the locals. Get the insider scoop on where to go, where not to go, how to get the best deal, or even how to get a discount. It can be as simple as asking someone at a store or restaurant for a recommendation.

What are your favorite ways to save money while traveling?

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save money while traveling
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save money while traveling