28 Tips To Save You Money on Your Next Vacation (Updated 2025)

Jon Miksis Jon Miksis clock Updated August 23, 2025 tourism Travel News
by Jon Miksis
Ways to save money on traveling
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Travel doesn’t have to be a rich-person sport. I’ve flown business class to Europe for $300, slept in Southeast Asian hotels without paying a dime, and walked into some of the world’s most iconic museums on passes that cost me nothing. None of that happened by accident…it’s the result of years of trial, error, and figuring out how to beat the system.

I’ve also made plenty of mistakes along the way (like overpaying for a cab that cost more than my flight). So I put together this guide with the stuff that actually works in 2025. These 27 travel hacks are my go-to playbook for stretching your budget and unlocking experiences most people assume are out of reach.

  • 👉 My Pro Tip: My biggest travel philosophy lately is experiences over sightseeing. If you’re looking for the best travel experiences money can buy, I HIGHLY recommend Viator. They offer the best curated experiences in destinations across the US and Europe, from walking food tours to other guided sightseeing. In my personal experience, it comes out about 10% cheaper than competitors like GetYourGuide. So I’m a fan!

How to Travel for Cheap: At a Glance

Don’t have time to read the full guide? Here are some highlights. But just so you know – some of my best tips are later in the blog post!

  • ✈️ Score Flight Deals:
    • Email Alerts: Sign up for alerts on platforms like Going.com and Dollar Flight Club.
    • Flexible Dates: Fly midweek and book early morning or late-night flights to save big.
  • 🏨 Save on Accommodation:
    • Budget Options: Use platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Hostelworld.
    • Long-Term Discounts: Book extended stays to unlock weekly or monthly savings.
  • 🚍 Opt for Night Transport:
    • Trains & Buses: Take advantage of overnight routes in Europe, Southeast Asia, or South America to save on lodging.
    • Comfort Essentials: Pack an eye mask, neck pillow, and travel blanket for restful journeys.
  • 🍽️ Save on Meals:
    • Lunch Over Dinner: Eat at restaurants during lunch hours for better prices.
    • DIY Meals: Use hostel or Airbnb kitchens to cook your own meals.
  • 🎟️ Free or Discounted Attractions:
    • Museum Days: Look for free entry days or student/senior discounts.
    • Local Tips: Ask locals about free or budget-friendly activities.
  • 🌍 Embrace Local Hacks:
    • SIM Cards: Grab a local SIM card or eSIM for affordable data.
    • Reusable Water Bottles: Avoid pricey bottled water with filter-equipped bottles like LifeStraw.
  • 💳 Maximize Rewards:
    • Travel Credit Cards: Use cards like Chase Sapphire Reserve for points and perks.
    • Frequent Flier Programs: Earn rewards with airlines and hotel loyalty programs.
  • 💼 Budget-Friendly Jobs Abroad:
    • Seasonal Work & Volunteering: Consider au pair gigs, farm work, or hostel volunteering through sites like Workaway.
  • 🚶 Walk or Bike:
    • Save on transportation costs while exploring the city on foot or wisath rentals.
  • 🛡️ Plan for the Unexpected:
    • Travel Insurance: Protect yourself with affordable options like SafetyWing.

Now, here are all my top strategies to travel on a budget in 2025 (and beyond).

Pinterest photo for my ultimate guide to saving money on travel
Pin for later!

Flights ✈️

1. Sign up for email alerts on cheap flights

Flight alert services are absolutely crushing it in 2025, with airfare prices up 12% this year making smart deal hunting more crucial than ever. Going.com (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) is still my go-to for flight deals, and honestly, their premium service has paid for itself dozens of times over. I’ve been using them for 5 years now, and the premium features are worth every penny. I recommend trying the 14-day free trial, and if you like it, using my discount code JON25 to save 25%.

Dollar Flight Club is another solid option that’s been stepping up their game lately. They’re great for tracking specific routes and send out deals that can save you up to 25% on domestic flights. I actually discovered a $79 flight from Portland to Boston through one of their alerts – originally priced at $407. That’s an 80% savings!

With these flight alert websites, saving on travel has never been easier.
With these flight alert websites, saving on travel has never been easier.

2. Take advantage of stopover programs

This is still one of my favorite travel hacks, and it’s gotten even better in 2025. Airlines like Emirates, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, TAP Air Portugal, Iberia, and Icelandair are offering more competitive stopover deals to attract passengers post-pandemic.

Before you book anything, don’t miss these deals 👇

I used EmiratesDubai Connect program last year – if you have a layover between 8-26 hours in Dubai, they’ll hook you up with free hotel accommodation, transfers, meals, and even a visa. It’s basically a free mini vacation within your vacation! Turkish Airlines has a similar program in Istanbul that’s actually pretty awesome.

The trick is to book these stopovers as your “normal” connecting flight. You’re not paying extra for airfare, just extending what would otherwise be a boring layover into an actual experience. I’ve done this in Reykjavik, Dubai, Istanbul, and Lisbon, and each time it felt like I was getting away with something.

3. Travel hack with points & miles

Travel rewards credit cards are more valuable than ever in 2025, especially with strategic signup bonuses and transfer partners. The Chase Sapphire Reserve got a major overhaul this year – it’s now $795 annually but offers over $2,700 in potential value through credits and perks.

If that’s too steep, the Chase Sapphire Preferred is still incredible at $95 annually. New applicants can earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in the first three months, which is worth about $1,538 based on current valuations. That’s enough for multiple domestic flights or a solid international trip.

The key is being strategic about signup bonuses and not overspending just for points. I time new card applications around big expenses I was going to make anyway – like insurance premiums or business equipment. A good benchmark is 1.5-2 cents per point for flights and hotels, so always compare cash prices before using points.

Visiting tropical places during the winter will not help you travel with less money.
Visiting tropical places during the winter will not help you travel with less money.

4. Be flexible with your flight dates and times

This is where the real savings happen in 2025. Flying in November and March can save you 32% on domestic flights and 27% on international flights compared to peak months. Skyscanner is a flight aggregator I use all the time to see flexible date options.

Midweek flights are still your best friend. Travelers who fly midweek can save an average of $56 per ticket on domestic flights throughout the year, with savings spiking over $60 during busy periods like spring break and summer. I recently saved almost $300 by shifting a weekend trip to Georgia by just two days. Early morning flights are usually cheaper too, and honestly, I’ve started to love them. First flights of the day not only help you avoid delays and cancellations but also tend to be significantly cheaper. Yeah, it sucks waking up at 4 AM, but it’s way easier when you remember you’re saving serious cash.

Alternative airports can also save you big time. Flying into Oakland instead of San Francisco, or Beauvais instead of Charles de Gaulle in Paris can cut costs dramatically. Just make sure you factor in transportation costs to your final destination.

✈️ Pro Travel Tip:

I use Going.com to find crazy flight deals...($300 roundtrip to Europe kind of crazy).

It’s free, and I honestly check it more than Google Flights. For a limited time only, they are offering 25% off on Premium and Elite to readers of my website, using my special code: JON25)

👉 Get Free Flight Alerts 🔔

Flexible flight dates and times are a great way to save money on travel
I recently spotted a round-trip flight from Boston to Bogotá for $300. It pays to be flexible with flight dates and times.

5. Fly with a budget airline (but be smart about it)

Budget airlines like Spirit, RyanAir, and EasyJet are still the kings of cheap flights, but you’ve got to play their game smart. The base fares look amazing, but they’ll nickel and dime you on everything else.

Here’s what I’ve learned: pack light and read the baggage policies religiously. I once saw a $89 RyanAir flight turn into $200 after baggage fees. If you’re bringing more than a small carry-on, sometimes a regular airline actually works out cheaper.

That said, if you can travel with just a personal item and a small carry-on, budget airlines are unbeatable. I’ve flown across Europe for under €50 multiple times, and honestly, for a 2-hour flight, the lack of frills doesn’t bother me at all.

Flying with RyanAir is one of the best money saving travel tips when visiting Europe.
Flying with RyanAir is one of the best money saving travel tips when visiting Europe.

6. Do a road trip instead of flying

Flights are expensive as hell right now (seriously, try flying to Australia and you’ll see what I mean), but road trips can actually save you serious money – especially with the right strategy. Gas prices in 2025 are averaging around $3.15 per gallon nationally, but here’s the thing: they vary wildly by state.

I just tracked some recent road trip data, and the difference is crazy. Oklahoma had gas for $2.86 per gallon, while California was hitting $4.50. That’s a 57% difference! Texas, Arkansas, Tennessee, and the South generally have the cheapest gas, while California, Nevada, and the West Coast will hit your wallet hardest.

Here’s how I calculate if driving makes sense: for a 1,000-mile roundtrip in a car getting 25 MPG, you’re looking at about 40 gallons of gas. At $3.15/gallon, that’s $126 in fuel costs. Compare that to flights that can easily run $400+ each way for two people, and suddenly that 12-hour drive doesn’t look so bad.

Pro road trip money-saving tips I’ve learned:

  • Get a Costco membership for cheaper gas (574 locations nationwide)
  • Use GasBuddy to find the cheapest stations along your route
  • Download parking apps like BestParking in cities to avoid $30/day parking fees
  • Pack snacks and drinks instead of buying overpriced road food

The best part about road trips? You’re splitting costs if you’re traveling with friends, you control your schedule completely, and honestly, some of my best travel memories are from random roadside stops I never would’ve discovered flying. Yeah, it takes longer, but when flights are this expensive, sometimes slow travel is smart travel.

Explore the world by road trips rather than flying
Explore the world by road trips rather than flying

7. Join a frequent flier and hotel rewards program

This one’s a no-brainer that pays off big time in the long run. Even if you only travel a couple times a year, those points and miles add up. I’m constantly getting free flights and hotel nights just by sticking with my preferred programs.

Marriott Bonvoy has been my go-to for hotels – their business travel benefits are solid, and they often waive resort fees for members. For airlines, pick one from each major alliance (OneWorld, SkyTeam, Star Alliance) so you can earn rewards no matter where you’re flying. Hotels.com’s rewards program is also clutch – every 10 nights gets you one free night. It’s simple math that adds up fast, especially for business travelers.

Frequent flier programs are a great way and tip to save money on travel
Frequent travelers should consider frequent flier programs as a way to save money and travel for cheap in the long haul.

Stays 🏨

8. Compare prices on multiple booking sites

The booking site game has gotten way more competitive, which is great news for us. I always check at least three travel apps before booking anything.

Vrbo has been consistently beating Airbnb on prices lately. In major cities like New York and London, Airbnb still comes in about 12-15% lower on average, but for beach destinations and larger properties, Vrbo often offers better value. Plus, Vrbo doesn’t charge guests booking fees in most cases, which can save you another 8%.

Vrbo’s “new listing discount” filter is actually really useful – you can save big by being one of the first three guests to stay at a property. I used this in Miami last year and saved 25% on a killer oceanfront condo.

Booking.com is still my top choice for hotels because of their free cancellation policy and huge inventory. Hotels.com comes in second, and I always check both since prices can vary even for the same property.

The Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City. As this hotel is pretty expensive, staying here is not how to travel cheap.
The Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City is one of the most iconic hotels in the world.

9. Stay in longer-term rentals for better rates

Both Airbnb and Vrbo offer significant discounts for weekly and monthly stays, with many hosts offering 20-30% off for extended bookings. This isn’t just for digital nomads – even staying 5-7 nights instead of 2-3 often unlocks weekly rates.

I spent a month in Bali last year, and the monthly rate was literally half the nightly rate. Hosts love longer bookings because it means less turnover and cleaning costs, so they pass those savings on to you. Vrbo is particularly good for this, especially for family properties and vacation homes. Their filters make it easy to find places with weekly or monthly discounts already built in.

    Saving money on long term travel rentals.
    Saving money on long term travel rentals.

    10. Stay in hostels, guesthouses, or budget alternatives

    Hostels have seriously upped their game since the pandemic. The quality and cleanliness standards are way better now, and many have private rooms that rival budget hotels. For example: I’ve stayed in Selina hostels down in Costa Rica that could rival the amenities at many 3-4 star resorts.

    Traveling on a budget tips in 2022
    Traveling on a budget tips right now

    Hostelworld is still the go-to platform, though they charge a $2 booking fee. Hostelbookers is cheaper but has fewer options. I’ve stayed in hostels in Prague and Rome for under $15/night, and honestly, they were cleaner than some mid-range hotels I’ve been in.

    Coachsurfing is making a comeback too. It’s not as popular as it was pre-2020, but that actually means less competition for good hosts. Plus, you get that authentic local experience you just can’t get in hotels.

    Thinking about how to save money while traveling? Stay at a hostel.
    Thinking about how to save money while traveling? Stay at a hostel.

    Getting Around 🚍

    11. Opt for overnight transportation

    This strategy is huge in Europe and Southeast Asia. The ÖBB Nightjet trains connecting cities like Vienna, Munich, and Venice are actually comfortable and save you a hotel night. I took one from Munich to Rome and woke up refreshed and ready to explore.

    Southeast Asia still has the best overnight bus network in the world. The VIP buses in Thailand and Vietnam are legitimately nice – full beds, AC, and they cost like $20 for a 12-hour journey that would cost you $200+ flying plus a hotel night. Soon, I’ll be exploring Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, which are said to have some of the best night trains in Central Asia.

    A group of happy friends discussing how to save money for travel

    12. Walk and use public transportation

    I try to walk at least 20,000 steps a day while I travel (my record is 52k steps). In expensive cities like London where the Tube costs can add up fast, walking saves serious money. The daily cap is £7, but honestly, London is such a walkable city that I rarely hit that limit.

    Barcelona’s T-Casual pass is still one of the best public transport deals in Europe – way cheaper than individual rides. Always research the transit passes before you arrive. Most cities have tourist passes that seem expensive upfront but save you money if you’re doing any significant amount of traveling around.

    I’ve gotten into bike rentals lately too. Cities like Amsterdam, Copenhagen, and Portland have amazing bike infrastructure, and daily rentals are usually under $15.

    Walking and renting bikes are great ways to get around most cities. It's also one of the best ways how to travel cheap and save money on travel.
    Walking and renting bikes are great ways to get around most cities.

    Food 🍽️

    13. Prioritize street food (in destinations where it’s safe, of course)

    Street food is still the ultimate travel hack for eating well and cheap. Thailand, Mexico, Turkey, and Peru have incredible street food scenes where you can eat amazing meals for $2-5.

    The key is following the locals…if there’s a line of people waiting for a particular stall, that’s your spot. I look for high turnover and food cooked fresh in front of me. Some of my best meals ever have been from street vendors, and they cost less than a coffee back home.

    In Bangkok, I practically lived off street food for two weeks and spent maybe $30 total on food. Mexico City‘s taco scene is unreal, and you can get incredible food for pocket change.

    14. Cook your own meals when possible

    Airbnb and hostel kitchens are money-saving goldmines. I love hitting up local markets and cooking simple meals – it’s way cheaper than restaurants and you get to experience local ingredients.

    Even just making breakfast and lunch yourself and eating dinner out saves huge money. In expensive cities like Zurich or Oslo, cooking your own meals isn’t just smart, it’s practically mandatory if you want to afford anything else.

    15. Eat lunch instead of dinner at restaurants

    This is such an underrated tip. The same exact meal costs 30-50% less at lunch than at dinner in most touristy places. When I’m looking to save cash, I make lunch my big meal of the day and keep dinners light and cheap.

    European lunch specials are incredible value – three courses for the price you’d pay for an appetizer at dinner. I’ve had amazing lunches in Paris and Rome for under €15 that would easily cost €40+ at dinner.

    Cutting down on eating out is a great way to save money on travel.
    For most people, eating out at restaurants is one of the biggest travel expenses.

    Activities 🎟️

    16. Visit museums and attractions on free days

    This is still huge in Europe. The Louvre offers free admission on the first Saturday evening of each month, and if you’re under 26, Friday evenings are free too. London’s major museums are free all the time, which is incredible value.

    Students should always carry their ID – the discounts in Europe are real. I’ve seen 50% discounts at major attractions just for flashing a student card. Seniors often get similar deals. You wouldn’t believe this, but I still used my college ID from when I was 20 at age 29…gotta do what you gotta do!

    Research free days before you go. Almost every major city has at least a few museums with weekly or monthly free admission times.

    The Louvre is among the most visited attractions in the world
    The Louvre Museum in Paris is one of the most-visited attractions in the world.

    17. Take free walking tours

    Free walking tours are everywhere now, and they’re honestly some of the best ways to get oriented in a new city. I’ve done them in Barcelona, Prague, Budapest, Bogota, and beyond – always worth it.

    Search GuruWalk, Freetour.com, or just Google “free walking tour + [city]” before you arrive. You tip what you think the tour was worth, which keeps it affordable and flexible. Most cover 2-3 hours and hit all the major sights plus hidden gems you’d never find on your own.

    18. Choose budget-friendly destinations

    In 2025, the U.S. dollar is incredibly strong in places like South Africa, Argentina, Peru, Hungary, Mexico, Vietnam, Colombia, and Japan, offering incredible value on food, hotels, and activities.

    Eastern Europe is still incredible value – Budapest over Vienna, Prague over Munich. Choose second‑tier European cities like Vilnius, Seville, or Paros instead of London or Santorini. You get the same level of history and culture for half the cost. Mexico is having a moment too – incredible food, rich culture, and your dollar goes far.

    Traveling Colombia has been my recent obsession. World-class coffee, incredible food, amazing people, and I was spending maybe $40/day total including accommodation. Compare that to Switzerland where $40 gets you lunch.

    Save cash visiting unknown places, such as this quaint village in Maine.
    Save cash visiting unknown places, such as this quaint village in Maine.

    19. Learn from the locals

    This is hands down one of the most underrated money-saving tips, and honestly, it’s become way easier in 2025 with all the new apps and travel sites available. The best way to dodge tourist traps and overpriced restaurants is by getting insider info from people who actually live there. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also discover experiences that most tourists completely miss.

    Reddit has become incredible for travel advice – subreddits like r/travel and city-specific ones (like r/Bangkok or r/Barcelona) are goldmines of real, honest recommendations. Quora and TripAdvisor are still solid, but I find Reddit gives you more authentic, unfiltered advice.

    New apps that connect you with locals:

    • Jetzy lets you connect with locals and travelers in real time, ask for recommendations, and even meet up
    • EatWith connects you with locals hosting dinner parties and food experiences in 130+ countries
    • Withlocals offers personalized tours with local guides who post videos so you can pick the perfect match
    • City Unscripted has detailed guide profiles and focuses on cultural experiences rather than typical tourist stuff

    But honestly, my favorite method is still the old-school approach – just talking to people in person. From O’ahu to Portugal, I’ve gotten the best recommendations from bartenders, hostel staff, Uber drivers, and random people at coffee shops. They’ll tell you about the hole-in-the-wall taco place that’s better than any restaurant, or the free museum day that tourists never know about.

    Locals will help you discover the best ways to save money when traveling.
    Locals will help you discover the best ways to save money when traveling.

    Money & Tech 💳

    20. Get the right travel credit card

    The Chase Sapphire Preferred remains the gold standard for travel rewards credit cards in 2025, offering excellent return on travel and dining purchases with a reasonable $95 annual fee. The welcome bonus alone (75,000 points after $5,000 spend) is worth about $1,500 in travel.

    If you travel more frequently, the updated Chase Sapphire Reserve might be worth the $795 fee. It now offers over $2,700 in potential annual value through various credits and perks, including up to $500 for luxury hotel stays and $300 for dining experiences.

    For those wanting something simpler, the Capital One Venture X at $395 annually offers great value with straightforward benefits and no foreign transaction fees.

    Choosing the right travel credit card is an excellent way to save money on traveling
    Choosing the right travel credit card is a great way to travel cheap and save money on travel.

    21. Get travel insurance (seriously, don’t skip this)

    SafetyWing continues to be the best value for travel insurance in 2025. Their Essential plan costs just $56.28 for 4 weeks for travelers aged 10-39, making it one of the cheapest reliable options available.

    They recently streamlined their claims process to just 2 minutes for submission with processing taking up to 10 days, a huge improvement from the previous 45-day timeline. I’ve used them for years and actually filed successful claims – they’re legit.

    You can sign up even after your trip has started, which has saved me multiple times when I’ve extended travels unexpectedly. Coverage extends to age 69, though older travelers will pay significantly more – expect around $196 per month for those 60-69.

    Even if you're not a daredevil, getting travel insurance is a wise idea.
    Even if you’re not a daredevil, getting travel insurance is a wise idea.

    19. Use local SIM cards or eSIMs

    International roaming fees are still brutal in 2025, especially for companies like Verizon and AT&T. A local SIM card or eSIM can save you hundreds on longer trips. SimOptions has been great for eSIMs – you can set them up before you even leave home.

    I picked up a European SIM card with unlimited data for €25 for a month, compared to my Verizon international plan at $10/day. The math is pretty simple there.

    World map with a SIM card on it

    20. Set a daily budget and track expenses to save money while traveling

    One of the easiest ways to overspend while traveling is by ignoring the little daily costs that add up…coffees, taxis, snacks, museum tickets. Setting a daily budget gives you guardrails so you know exactly what you can spend without stressing.

    I recommend starting by tracking your spending at home for a week to get a baseline. Then, before your trip, decide on a realistic daily amount (say $50/day in Southeast Asia or $120/day in Europe) that covers food, transport, activities, and small splurges.

    There are many great travel apps for tracking expenses out there, including Trail Wallet and Splitwise. Setting a daily budget and actually sticking to it has been huge for my travel finances.

    21. Use currency exchange apps to avoid ATM fees

    Using currency exchange apps like XE Currency or Revolut helps you track real-time rates so you don’t get ripped off at tourist kiosks. Always withdraw cash from ATMs with a debit card that waives international fees (like Charles Schwab or Capital One 360). Even small $5–10 fees add up fast over a trip.

    My Pro Tip: Decline “dynamic currency conversion” at checkout…always pay in the local currency to avoid hidden markups. This combo of smart apps and fee-free cards keeps more money in your pocket for experiences instead of bank charges.

    It pays to be intentional about tracking your travel expenses.
    It pays to be intentional about tracking your travel expenses.

    22. Work while you travel

    Travel isn’t just about spending money…it can also be a way to make money. Thanks to the remote work revolution, it’s easier than ever to fund adventures without draining your savings.

    I first experienced this back in 2016 when I taught English in Spain. That gig paid for my living expenses and gave me weekends to explore Europe. Since then, I’ve met countless travelers working their way around the world, and the opportunities are endless.

    Seasonal Gigs

    Ski resorts, summer beach towns, and even music festivals hire seasonal staff every year. Think ski instructor in the Alps, bartender in Australia, or stage crew at a festival like Tomorrowland. The pay may not be huge, but the perks (like free lift passes or festival tickets) make it worth it.

    Being a seasonal ski instructor is a great way to save money to travel.
    Being a seasonal ski instructor is a great way to save money to travel.

    Cultural Exchanges

    Sites like Workaway, Worldpackers, and WWOOF connect travelers with hosts who need help on farms, hostels, or social media projects. In exchange, you’ll get free accommodation and sometimes meals. It’s one of the easiest ways to stretch your budget while getting a deeper look at local life.

    Wwoofing is one of the top travel tips to save money.
    Wwoofing is one of the top travel tips to save money.

    Au Pair

    If you want to immerse yourself in a new culture and language, Au Pair programs are perfect. You’ll live with a family, help with childcare, and have your room and board covered…plus a stipend for travel money.

    Hostel & Tourism Jobs

    Many hostels let you volunteer in exchange for a bed, which is perfect if you want flexibility. If you’re good with people, consider becoming a tour guide. Start by leading free walking tours (where you earn tips), then move on to professional guiding.

    Read next: Coolest international traveling jobs

    Tour guides know how to save for a trip.
    Tour guides know how to save for a trip.

    23. Pack light to avoid baggage fees

    Airlines are getting more aggressive with baggage fees. Spirit and Frontier charge for everything beyond a tiny personal item. Even traditional carriers are tightening restrictions.

    I’ve gotten obsessed with one-bag travel. A good Tortuga or Peak Design travel backpack that fits airline carry-on requirements has saved me thousands in baggage fees over the years.

    Packing light is an easy way to travel cheap and save money on travel
    Packing light is an easy way to travel cheap and save money on travel.

    Bonus Money-Saving Tips ✈️

    24. Travel with friends for group discounts

    Group travel unlocks so many savings opportunities. Hotels offer group rates, you can split Uber costs, and many tour companies have group discounts. I’ve split amazing Airbnb houses with friends for less than hostel costs per person.

    Road trips with friends are incredibly cost-effective. Split gas, accommodation, and meals four ways, and suddenly expensive destinations become affordable. These are some of my favorite destinations to travel with friends.

    And don’t forget about tours and activities. Many companies offer group discounts, so whether it’s a diving course in Bali or a guided tour in Rome, you’ll often pay less per person in a group. If you’re looking to save money while traveling, I highly recommend doing a Globus Choice Tour. It’s one of the best value tour companies out there!

    25. Follow your favorite travel brands on social media

    Here’s a cool tip on how to travel for cheap (and even free!). Following your favorite travel sites is the way to go. I’m not just saying this because I’m big into social media, either…

    Many hotels and travel companies offer special deals directly on social media. For example, hotels like the Terranea Resort in Southern California offer exclusive deals and resort credits for their social media followers.

    Some companies offer giveaways as well. I’ve won free trips to the Azores (islands in Portugal) and the Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut through giveaways. In some cases, airlines will partner with destinations on social media to provide free flights and accommodations to the winners. Even if you don’t win anything, flash sales and follower-only discount codes pop up regularly. It takes two seconds to follow your favorite brands and airlines.

    Checking social media is a great way to discovering giveaways and promotions.
    Some of your favorite brands on social media partake in giveaways and promotions that are exclusive to their followers.

    26. Start a travel blog (if you’re into it)

    This has been the most effective money-saving strategy for me personally. Tourism boards will sometimes comp trips in exchange for coverage, and affiliate marketing can help offset travel costs.

    It’s definitely not for everyone, and it takes work, but if you’re already sharing travel photos and tips with friends, why not monetize it a bit?

    Starting a blog is a lot of work, but it's extremely rewarding.
    Starting a blog is a lot of work, but it’s extremely rewarding.

    27. Volunteer at festivals & events

    One of the biggest money-saving hacks I’ve seen friends pull off (and something I’m tempted to try myself) is volunteering at festivals or large events. In exchange for a few shifts helping out, you often get free entry, meals, accommodation, and sometimes even insider access to experiences most people pay hundreds for.

    In Europe especially, this is huge. Think Tomorrowland in Belgium, Oktoberfest in Munich, or cultural events like the Edinburgh Festival Fringe…all of which recruit volunteers every year. In the U.S., massive gatherings like Burning Man, SXSW, and even smaller music festivals rely on volunteers.

    Finding these gigs is easier than most people realize. Start with the official festival website…most have a “volunteer” or “work exchange” section months before the event. Platforms like Workaway and Worldpackers also list opportunities where you can help with setup, logistics, or hospitality in return for tickets and lodging. Not only is this an epic way to save money, it’s also a unique way to experience a destination from the inside out. You’re not just a spectator…you’re part of the community that makes the event happen.

    28. Be financially responsible at home

    This is honestly the most important tip. The real savings happen during the 48-50 weeks you’re not traveling. I rarely eat out at home, and instead spend that money on tapas in Spain, schnitzel in Austria, and beer in Germany.

    Small changes add up huge – bringing lunch to work instead of buying it saves $2,000+ per year. That’s multiple international trips right there.

    Keeping track of your finances is an important part of trip planning
    Keeping track of your finances is an important part of trip planning

    How to travel cheap and save money (Recap)

    Traveling doesn’t have to be expensive. On the contrary, it can be affordable and even cheap when you do it the right way. After 8 years of pretty much non-stop travel, these strategies have served me well.

    I hope you’ve found this list to be helpful to save money on travel! Happy Travels! -Jon

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    What was missing or unclear? Any tips you’d add?

    Jon Miksis

    About Jon Miksis

    Award-winning Travel Writer • Founder of Global Viewpoint • 70+ countries visited • 10 Million+ readers

    Since 2017, I’ve traveled 3–6 months a year, sharing detailed guides that have helped over 10 million readers travel smarter, deeper, and better. My work blends firsthand experiences — from U.S. road trips and cold-plunge cabins to Michelin-starred dining and business-class flights — with honest, independent reviews.

    I’ve been hired by leading tourism boards in 7 countries across Europe, North America, and South America, as well as international travel brands. My travel tips and insights have been featured in Forbes, HuffPost, Yahoo Travel, and The Boston Globe. I’ve personally reviewed 500+ hotels, retreats, and flight experiences — and I never recommend a place I wouldn’t return to myself.

    I also save $5–10K per year on airfare using flight tools and 10+ travel credit cards, and I’ve invested over $100K into personal development through transformational retreats and coaching since 2021.

    When I’m not road-tripping across the Northeast or writing guides for Global Viewpoint, you’ll find me cold plunging in local lakes, sipping espresso in quiet cafes in Vienna, or chasing fall foliage across New England. I split my time between exploring the world and soaking up life in Boston, my lifelong home base. Some of my favorite places I keep going back to? Switzerland, Spain, Iceland, Italy, Greece, the Faroe Islands, Guatemala, California, Montana, Vermont, and coastal Maine in autumn.

    See my latest adventures on Instagram and TikTok.

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    3 comments

    Freddy February 26, 2019 - 08:40

    Definitely worth a read for avid travelers! Saving throughout the year for my trips, and using those savings to budget my trip accordingly helps most of all. Going on a trip without a budget can be very costly..

    Understanding how much per day I can spend on food let’s me enjoy those costly evening dinners by avoiding that fifth gelato or extra drink at the bar!

    Happy traveling 🙂

    Reply
    Margit February 24, 2019 - 13:21

    Great tips, thank you! Unfortunately not all museums offer free days. Lunch versus dinner definitely is cheaper, however at lunchtime si normally don‘t want to lose precious time for sightseeing whereas in the evening hours in a restaurant can be better enjoyed after a long day of visiting interesting places. But, as I said above, great tips! Keep on traveling and informing us!

    Reply
    Global Viewpoint February 26, 2019 - 09:33

    Thanks Margit! You make some great points here. I appreciate your input!

    Reply

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