How to Travel Cheap: Insider Tips for Flights, Hotels, and Experiences

Who says you need to spend a fortune to see the world? Traveling on a budget isn’t just possible—it can actually make your trips more exciting, meaningful, and rewarding. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a bucket-list adventure, these insider tips for how to travel cheap will help you save big on flights, accommodations, and experiences without sacrificing quality. Let’s dive in!

1. How to Travel Cheap – Finding Flights

Airfare is often the biggest expense of any trip, but the first tip for how to travel cheap is scoring flights at a fraction of the cost.

• Be Flexible with Your Dates – Flying on weekdays (especially Tuesdays and Wednesdays) is usually cheaper than weekends. Use fare comparison sites like Google Flights or Skyscanner to find the cheapest days to fly.
• Use Airline Points & Miles – If you have a travel rewards credit card, cash in your points for free or discounted flights.
• Book at the Right Time – The sweet spot for booking domestic flights is 1-3 months in advance, while international flights are best booked 3-6 months ahead.
• Fly Budget Airlines – Airlines like Spirit, Frontier, and Ryanair offer dirt-cheap tickets. Just watch out for extra fees!
• Set Price Alerts – Use apps like Hopper or Kayak to get notified when flight prices drop.

2. Scoring Affordable Accommodations

A comfortable stay doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Here’s how to sleep cheap while traveling.

• Book Alternative Accommodations – Instead of pricey hotels, try hostels, guesthouses, or vacation rentals on Airbnb.
• Use Hotel Price Comparison Sites – Websites like Hotels.com, Booking.com, and Hotwire can help you find the best deals.
• Consider House Sitting – Platforms like TrustedHousesitters let you stay for free in exchange for watching someone’s home (and sometimes pets!).
• Stay Outside the City Center – Lodging a little further from tourist hotspots is often significantly cheaper, and public transportation can easily get you where you need to go.
• Join Loyalty Programs – Hotel chains like Marriott and Hilton offer free nights and perks to their members.

3. Saving Money on Food & Drinks

Eating out for every meal can add up fast. Here’s how to enjoy great food without draining your budget.

• Eat Like a Local – Skip touristy restaurants and try street food or hole-in-the-wall spots where the locals eat.
• Book Accommodations with a Kitchen – Cooking even one meal a day can save you hundreds over the course of a trip.
• Take Advantage of Free Breakfasts – Many hotels and hostels offer free breakfast, so make the most of it.
• Drink Smart – Alcohol is often overpriced at restaurants. Buy drinks at local stores instead or look for happy hour specials.

4. Affordable Activities & Experiences

You don’t need expensive tours to have an unforgettable trip. Here’s how to make the most of your destination for less.

• Look for Free Attractions – Many cities offer free museums, parks, walking tours, and cultural sites.
• Buy City Passes – If you plan to visit multiple attractions, city passes (like the New York Pass or Paris Pass) can save you money.
• Use Public Transport – Taxis and Ubers add up quickly. Instead, take buses, trains, or rent a bike.
• Find Local Discount Deals – Sites like Groupon and Airbnb Experiences often have discounts on tours and activities.

5. Bonus Tips for How to Travel Cheap

• Pack Light – Avoid baggage fees by sticking to a carry-on whenever possible.
• Use a No-Fee Travel Credit Card – Avoid foreign transaction fees and earn cashback or rewards on your purchases.
• Travel During Off-Peak Seasons – Visiting destinations during their low seasons means cheaper flights, hotels, and fewer crowds.

Final Thoughts

Traveling cheap doesn’t mean sacrificing amazing experiences—it just means being a little savvier with your money. With these budget-friendly strategies, you can see the world without emptying your wallet.

Where’s your next adventure? Drop your favorite tips for how to travel cheap in the comments below!