Saving money for travel can feel tougher than ever with today’s unpredictable global economy, but trust me—it can be done. Prices are climbing on everything from groceries to gas, and it’s tempting to shelve those travel dreams “for later.” But even in uncertain times, small, consistent habits can bring those bucket-list adventures a lot closer than you think.
I’ve always been a saver and a serious deal-hunter when it comes to travel. That’s how I manage to hit the road more than four times a year without draining my bank account. If you love to travel (and you’re reading this so… hi, fellow wanderer!), planning ahead and being mindful with your money can make all the difference. Here are my favorite tried-and-tested tips to help you save smarter, travel more, and keep your wallet happy.
Let’s Dig In!
Disclaimer
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Should I Travel or Save Money?
Short answer: both!
Create two accounts—one for travel and one for emergencies. When payday hits, funnel at least $50 per check into your travel fund (or pick a percentage that fits your lifestyle). Do the same for your emergency savings.
Adventures deserve to be a priority. You only live once, and even a short road trip can give you that much-needed reset. And remember: every single penny adds up.
1. Plan Ahead
If there’s one money-saving trick I swear by, it’s planning ahead. Depending on your destination, start scoping out deals anywhere from three months to a year beforehand. Prices fluctuate, so watching them over time can help you snag serious savings.
Here’s a free budget planner I made to help you get started:
Start HERE!
The link connects you with a sharable budget planner.
2. Use Search Engines
I love a good comparison tool. My go-to booking sites are GetYourGuide.com, Tripadvisor.com, and Trip.com, all great for bundling deals and saving extra cash.
For concerts, theater, and sports, I use TicketNetwork.com. One-stop event shopping? Yes, please.
Quick Tip: Always search in a private browser. Prices sometimes jump if a site sees you checking repeatedly.
3. Utilize Credit Card Points
Travel credit cards can be total game changers. I use the American Airlines credit card, and I rack up miles just by living my normal life—gas, groceries, the usual. Another great option is the Delta SkyMiles American Express, which offers generous points and travel perks.
Every swipe gets you closer to your next adventure. Win-win.
4. Travel in the Low Season
Many destinations are beautiful year-round, but cheaper when crowds thin out. Traveling during the low season can save you hundreds on hotels and flights.
Just make sure to check the weather first. There’s a difference between saving money and getting stuck in a tropical storm or snowstorm you did not bargain for.
5. Consider Which Airport You Use
A city often has more than one airport, and flying into the smaller one can save big. When I visited Dallas the second time, I switched from DFW to Dallas Love Field and saved $100.
A little extra research can go a long way.
And speaking of Dallas—if you’re headed that way, don’t miss my guide to hidden gems that make the city unforgettable.
Read next: Off-the-Beaten-Path in Dallas
6. Know When to Book an Airbnb vs. a Hotel
Hotels give you convenience: concierge, security, housekeeping, all the things that make travel easier. But Airbnbs can be perfect for groups or when you want a cozy, unique space.
Just read those reviews carefully. A pretty listing doesn’t always equal a safe neighborhood. And don’t forget: cleaning fees and expectations have changed over the years. What used to be a $79 steal in Arcata, CA, is now a whole different ballgame.
7. Find Flight Deals on Hopper
The Hopper app has saved me so much money. If you want to try it out, use my link to get 10% off any hotel. Hopper tells you whether to buy now or wait, shows price predictions, lets you freeze deals, and helps you stick to your travel budget. Honestly? It’s like having a tiny travel agent in your phone..
8. Book Hotels That Include Breakfast
This is one of my favorite hacks. Filter your hotel search to show only properties that offer free breakfast. A good morning meal keeps you full longer and saves you cash for the fun stuff.
Breakfast + savings = my kind of math.
9. Find Free Activities
Before traveling, put together a loose itinerary. Spontaneity is great, but wandering without direction can cost more than you expect.
Search for free activities like walking tours, parks, viewpoints, farmer’s markets, or donation-based museums. Fun fact: the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC lists $30, but it’s actually pay-what-you-wish.
Free experiences are everywhere—you just have to look.
10. Create a Budget (and Stick to It!)
Set your travel budget before you pull out your credit card. I like to charge all trip expenses to one card so everything stays organized in one place.
And please, don’t max out your card for a vacation. A dream trip isn’t worth coming home to stress.
Saving for travel doesn’t mean giving up joy. It means being intentional so you can enjoy even more. With a little strategy and a lot of curiosity, you can explore the world without draining your wallet.
Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!