45 Ways to Save Money When You Travel
Talk to the locals. They can offer advice on restaurants, transportation, hotels, and those out of the guidebook tips on what to see and where to eat or stay.
Many museums or sites will have free or discounted days, which you can find on their websites.
Spend more time in fewer places. The temptation is often to see as much as you can see and add to the “My Country List”. This approach in a few places can be equally rewarding and enjoyable. It also helps to cut down on flights or other travel expenses.
Be flexible with your flight times and dates. Flying on Tuesday or Wednesdays can save you money. Holiday times are more expensive. More connectors can lower your costs as well. Sundays tend to be the most expensive day to fly.
Visit the airline websites after checking all the online discount sites. They may have lower fares.
Join frequent flyer programs.
Some hostels and hotels will give you a better deal if you stay more than one night. Even after checking all of the online discount sites, phone the hotel directly. They may give you a discount.
Sunday nights are often discounted nights in hotels. This may be a good time to splurge on that luxury hotel for a night.
Rent an apartment instead of a hotel if your stay is for a longer period of time. Homeaway.com is one of many sites online that will help here.
Do not discount the charm, convenience, and cheaper prices of some Board and Breakfasts. Plus, it is a great chance to get to know some locals.
Sign up for Hotel Reward programs.
Sign up for gas reward programs.
Many credit card companies will offer reward points for travel.
Hostels and guesthouses are another great option for accommodations.
Couchsurfing.org is another option for accommodations.
Housesit. There are many sites online.
Do a home exchange. Again, search on the Internet for the different sites online that will help you do a home exchange.
Vacation rentals-by-owner is another option for accommodations. Again, the Internet is a good source for options.
Tent.
Book your flights or train rides so that you fly throughout the night, thus saving on accommodations.
Walk, a wonderful way to slow things down, see more, and do so cheaper.
Rent a bike.
Use public transportation.
Lunch menus are often cheaper than supper prices. Time it so you eat two lunches per day rather than one lunch and one supper.
Follow the 5-block rule: eat 5 blocks away from the main tourist sites. Not only will it be more authentic but it will also be a lot cheaper.
Shop at the local grocery stores and buy fruit, chocolates, cheese and crackers, or sandwich fixings instead of eating out.
Only stay at hotels where breakfasts are included.
Local beers can be cheaper and are a great way to sample local breweries.
Bargain. In many countries, it is expected to that you will bargain so the prices are inflated. Walking away is an effective technique, as they will often chase you down. Remember, they will never sell anything for a loss. A fair price is ideal for both seller and buyer. $1 may mean nothing to you but it can mean a lot to the shopkeeper.
Laundry can be done by hand in your hotel sink or your apartment’s washing machine. If you are staying in one place for a few days, throw your dirty socks and underwear in the sink and wash them by hand. They will dry by the time it is ready to leave.
Use Skype or another similar service to make phone calls.
Shop where the locals shop.
Book hotels that offer free Wi-Fi or search out cafes, libraries or other locations that offer free hot spots.
The locals or local tourist information centres can inform you of parks, beaches, hikes, or cultural events such as concerts that are often free or very cheap. Be on the lookout for these local events.
Carry your own water bottle, which will save you from buying water and save the environment.
Carry your own thermos if you like making your own tea or coffee.
Consider the number of checked bags you will be taking when considering airlines. Many airlines may look cheaper until you factor in other costs such as number of luggage you can check in at any one time. Some airlines charge for each bag.
Contact your cell phone carrier to see what international traveling packages they may have. Ensure that it will work at your destination. OR, leave your cell phone at home.
Mail your dirty clothes home. This may be cheaper than checking a second piece of luggage.
Donate old clothes to local charities before you leave for home, which may save on the number of suitcases you need to take.
Sign up for email alerts from travel websites for sales.
Use ferries instead of river cruises. They provide you with more flexibility in terms of stopping and staying where you want to visit. Plus, they are far cheaper. Traveling by ferry up the Rhine River was a wonderful way to experience that region of Germany.
Keep shopping. Depending upon your cancellation policy, you may be able to cancel your booking and then re-book if you find a cheaper price at a later date.
Ask when the hotel was built or last renovated. Why pay for an older or dated hotel.
It seems un-North American but negotiating for a lower price or extras such as free breakfast or parking can work.
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