Traveling can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. What I’ve learned after traveling to over 10 countries is that if you strategically plan your trip from start to finish, you can save some serious cash and not sacrifice your financial well-being once you get back home.
Here are some underrated tips to save on your next summer getaway.
Subscribe to Fare Alerts
It’s no surprise that flights are not cheap, but that doesn’t mean your trip has to be expensive. There’s a super simple way to score awesome flight deals—subscribe to fare alerts! Many websites and apps offer this simple feature that notifies you when flight prices drop or when there are flash sales and last-minute deals. Keeping an eye on these alerts can help you land significant discounts on your airfare, leaving you with more cash to splurge on new experiences (and not flights).
Cook Your Meals
I love food, I’m sure you do too. Exploring new cuisines in a new country is amazing, but dining out for every meal can put a big dent in your travel budget. Luckily, if your accommodation comes with a kitchen (especially if you use Airbnb), you’re in luck! Instead of going out to eat for each meal, consider making your own meals with local ingredients. Having done this in Nicaragua, I will tell you that exploring the local markets and grocery stores can be an adventure in itself. And making your own meals lets you savor the authentic flavors of the region without those hefty restaurant bills. Now, you don’t have to do this for every meal, but just choosing one meal out of the day can save hundreds or even thousands!
Travel Off-Season
Are you ready to stretch your travel budget? Do more with less? Plan your trips during off-peak seasons! Traveling during popular vacation times or peak seasons often means higher prices for flights, accommodation, and attractions. But here’s the secret to saving big—opt for more low-key periods instead! You’ll find cheaper flight deals, and hotels and tour operators may even offer discounted rates to attract visitors during those peaceful months. Plus, who doesn’t like fewer crowds?
Free Activities
Now, who said you need to shell out big bucks to have a good time? Many beautiful countries around the world have a plethora of free or low-cost attractions and activities. Whether it’s wandering through beautiful parks, exploring the quaint neighborhoods, or catching free cultural events like festivals, there are plenty of ways to explore a new destination without forking out a lot of cash. Take for example: Cartagena, Colombia. Within the Walled City there are a host of fun activities to check out that don’t cost a single dime! Music, dancing, artists, and more!
Each of these tips I’ve used during my travel experiences allowed me to explore the world while paying off my debt. As you plan your next trip, consider some of these tips so you can let your hair down during vacation without regretting it when you get back home! Safe travels!
About the Author:
Marc Russell is a top financial educator and coach. After college, he climbed the ranks at top financial institutions including The Vanguard Group. Over his career, Marc earned his stockbroker and financial advisor licenses before he became a full-time business owner.
Despite his career success, Marc struggled with debt until he used his own financial tips to pay off $80,000. His business, BetterWallet, teaches new investors how to manage their money strategically. Marc’s work has been featured in numerous publications, including Time Magazine, CNBC, Harvard Business Review, Bankrate and USA TODAY.
