FLIGHTS //
LOOK FOR BUDGET FLIGHTS - Use apps like Hopper or Skyscanner to track prices for cheap flights.
RESEARCH FLIGHTS THAT HAVE A LONG LAYOVER AT YOUR DESTINATION – This takes a little bit of time, but can be worth it. Don't forget to arrange to have your luggage pulled from the plane early. Or keep it simple and just take a carry on.
FIND CHEAP OR FREE STOPOVER FLIGHTS - Want to make the most of your travel on a limited budget? Search for places where there are long layovers that might interest you to stay a day or two without changing your final destination. Look at multi-flight booking tools such as Indie or Airtreks to help you find logical stopovers. For example, Iceland Air offers customers the option of stopping over in their country (up to 7 nights) at no extra charge.
GIVE UP YOUR SEAT- Airlines often overbook their flights. If you're not in a hurry, offer to let someone else take your seat and take the next flight offered. If this is something you know you're interested in, show up early and ask if the flight is overbooked. If so, asked to be placed on the volunteer list. Most airlines will offer you an additional ticket to use at another date. Always confirm compensation before agreeing to anything. Remember, you are doing them a favor, so don't be afraid to ask for more. Don't be greedy, but be firm.
ACCOMMODATIONS //
LOOK FOR PLACES TO HOUSESIT - Offer to housesit for friends/family that may have a vacation house or while they are traveling, themselves. There are also sites like Mindmyhouse.
REACH OUT TO FRIENDS & FAMILY - If you stop to think about all the places you know people you might be surprised. Reach out to those you know and see if you’d be able to stay with them. Locals give the best advice on where to eat and what to do. In exchange, treat them to a nice meal, leave a nice bottle of wine or their favorite sweet treat behind.
MEALS & DRINKS //
GRAB SOMETHING FRESH FROM THE LOCAL MARKET - Avoid taking the time for sit down service and leaving a tip.
GROCERY SHOP AND COOK YOUR MEALS - Plan simple, cheap, healthy meals.
LOOK FOR HAPPY HOURS - Many places offer food and drink specials that will save you money.
AVOID MAJOR TOURISTY AREAS - This means leaving the strip, boardwalk, etc. You'll save time and money, and chances are you'll have a more authentic meal. Ask where the locals eat. They say never eat within six blocks of a major tourist sight. The food is double the price and half as good.
PACK YOUR LUNCH - Never leave without a refillable water bottle and a couple of snacks. You never know when you'll need a little boost of energy and no one likes paying for bottled water.
SKIP DRINKS AT DINNER - Pick up a bottle of wine or a six-pack on the way home.
ATTRACTIONS //
ASK THE HOTEL DESK or AIRBNB HOST FOR RECOMMENDATIONS - Chances are they will know free things, good but cheap places to eat, etc.
LOOK UP FREE MUSEUM DAYS - Most cities offer free entry to museums and attractions, it just takes a little bit of research.
CHECK FOR STUDENT DISCOUNTS - Always bring your ID - there are a lot of attractions and tours that will offer discounts. Even if you don't see one listed, just ask!
SKIP THE CROWDED BUS TOURS - Look into getting a bike rental to explore on your own and enjoy being able to stop whenever you want. If you miss something, you can turn around and go at your own pace.
GENERAL //
AVOID THE MONEY EXCHANGE BOOTHS - Your bank will give you the best exchange rate, so just withdraw cash using your debit charge.
TRAVEL DURING THE MIDDLE OF THE WEEK - Everything is always cheaper than on weekends.
CONSIDER TRAVELING DURING THE OFF SEASON - Things are less crowded and often cheaper.
TRAVEL INSURANCE - Whether you miss your flight, fall ill while traveling, or have your belongings stolen, spending a little extra on traveler's insurance may save you in the long run.
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Do you have any tips on how to save money while planning or traveling? Comment below. xx ASH
