Travel More, Spend Less: How to Have a Ball on a Budget
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just taking a much-needed reprieve, everyone deserves a vacation. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to break the bank while doing it. No matter where you’re heading, there is bound to be a trick (or two or three) that can save you some spending, and the dread that comes from checking your balance after you return. So, take some time to treat yourself — and your bank account — with these ten savvy saving tips.
In This Article
1. Plan Ahead
Naturally, planning your vacation ahead of time will give you more time to save. But in addition to getting things booked in advance, it’s financially wise to plan your activities and meals in advance. This helps avoid accidentally wandering into the most expensive places in the city and blowing your budget in one sitting.
2. Book in the Off-Season to Avoid Peak Prices
Whether it be for flights or hotels, you can cut costs drastically by booking in the off-season. A quick web search should tell you all you need to know, but avoiding popular family destinations, such as theme parks and beaches, during the summer months or holiday breaks is an excellent place to start. Plus, you won’t have to worry about crowds. It’s a win-win!
3. Road Trip
Why fly when you can drive? Driving not only saves you money on flights, but it also helps you avoid extra purchases at the airport. You can even maximize your time on the road by adding stops along the way — whether it be a local restaurant, museum or iconic site. Bonus points if you stop for gas in smaller cities, which tend to have cheaper gas prices.
4. Insider Information: Check In With Concierges And Hosts
Wherever you’re staying, it’s not uncommon for hotels and rental hosts to have connections or partnerships with local attractions and restaurants. Upon arrival, or even before, check in with your hotel’s concierge or rental host to see if they have any recommendations. You just might score a discount!
5. Utilize Public Transportation
If you’re looking to get a real, local experience, this one’s for you. Contrary to popular belief, you do not have to take Ubers or Lyfts everywhere you go. If you’re in a larger city, look into local bus or subway passes or see if your hotel has a shuttle service. And if you’re in a smaller town, try renting a bike or going for a good old-fashioned walk.
6. Prioritize
Every person has their favorite activity on a vacation; you just need to find yours. Whether it’s food, shopping, sightseeing, nightlife or tours, identify what’s most important to you and allocate more of your spending to that. This will not only help you cut unnecessary costs but also give you a more enjoyable vacation.
7. Pack Snacks
We don’t know who needs to hear this, but do not buy the $13 candy bar out of the hotel room’s mini-fridge! After long days of seeing and doing, needing a snack is inevitable, so save yourself the cost by packing some of your favorites in your suitcase. While you’re at it, stash your favorite water bottle in there as well so that you can refill it day by day. Those $3 ones you grab on the side of the street add up!
8. Enter To Win
This one might be a bit of a stretch, but we’ll try anything for a bargain. In almost every city, you’ll be able to find an event lottery of some sort. Whether it be tickets for Broadway productions, seats at a local music show or entry to a festival, you never know what you could win for free. Event websites, radio stations and social media are great places to find these.
9. Explore New Customer Discounts
How many times have you received an email about getting 10% off your first purchase? Take advantage of those savings on your vacation! Browse the websites of the stores, attractions or restaurants you plan to visit to see what incentives might be available for first-time customers.
10. Shop at Local Markets
Who doesn’t love a souvenir? Get your shopping in and support local businesses by checking out farmer and artisan markets at your destination. Prices tend to be lower here, and you’re sure to take home something unique.
