We all know that traveling can be very expensive, so it makes sense to save a few pennies here and there. Money saved here…a little there soon adds up. This article lists ways to save money on travel.
It’s not necessarily that you need to save money because you can’t afford it, it simply means that you can spend more on activities that you really value. More time doing adventure activities or eating in a nicer restaurant…saving money can really make a difference to your experience.
If you are travelling on a budget, some of these tips will really make a difference to you.
Before you travel
Remove the cookies from your browser
Before you book a flight, remove the cookies from your computer. Ideally you should use a VPN. Airlines and booking sites are smart. They know through the cookies they leave on your browser when you want to travel and where. This means that the search results they deliver you aren’t competitive. Clear your cookies and use a VPN. Watch how the price of your air ticket falls, especially if the flight is relatively soon.
Travel during the week
Setting off on holiday is normally a weekend thing as it allows you to finish the work week. Everything is neat and tidy. However, flying during the week may actually result is significantly cheaper fares.
Be prepared to change to travel dates
This is a simple suggestion but being flexible about when you travel may actually save you quite a lot. Some days are more popular than others which makes them more expensive. Flying during a quiet time can make your ticket cheaper.
Avoid the broker websites and visit the airline website directly
When you have decided where and when you want to go, as a final act, visit the airline website and search the same flight. In many cases, you may find the same ticket cheaper purely by booking through them directly. Essentially, they are passing on the saved brokers fees.
Change your flying times
The same applies to the flight time. Flying at night or first thing in the morning may result in a cheaper flight.
Deal with hotels directly
Again, avoiding broker websites can actually save you money. If it is a last-minute booking, it is well worth calling around to see what deals are available. Hotel operators focus on their ‘fill’ rate so getting an extra booking on a room that would otherwise go empty is worth it to them. If you persist, you can get a great deal so don’t be shy about asking.
Are you a young traveller?
If so, you should definitely make enquiries which incorporate student discounts. This may not get you the best-timed flights but they certainly get you big discounts. On option is to visit STA Travel. They specialise with students and can help you get a great deal.
Join a loyalty programme
If you fly regularly with a certain network, it is worth joining the frequent flyers programme…essentially it is a loyalty programme. Depending how you travel, it may well gain you free flights as well as upgrades. Additionally, if you are a user of credit cards, find one that gains you points as a bonus.
Stay a little longer
Staying for a single night is often leads to a full price. However, staying more than a single night can lead to discounts. This applies to both hotels and hostels. So why rush, take it easy…stay a little longer and enjoy the discounts.
Sunday is a good day
Sunday is the day that has the lowest fill rate in hotels, therefore the biggest opportunity to get discounts.
Sign up to airline and hotel newsletters
Occasionally, they will offer discounts to their subscribers or even promotion codes. Regardless, these can be very good offers because they assume that you are a loyal customer. Make the most of them when they come up.
Don’t simply renew your travel insurance
Insurance is a competitive business but one thing we know about this industry…being loyal is not in your favor. Renewing means the price goes up. The best option is to shop around and get the best deal with the same coverage.
Social media is king
As companies change how they communicate with their customers and potential customers, social media is the channel. It allows them to control the ‘buzz’, so take the time and follow them. You may get a great deal with a flash sale.
Attend Time Share Presentations
You need a strong mind and an unwavering ability to say no. Essentially, these companies are offering free accommodation and in return, you need to attend a sales presentation. These are incredibly aggressive but you need to attend. In return…free accommodation. Some will question the ethics of this…but each to their own.
Arrival
Locals have the inside track
When you arrive in a new location, it is always fruitful to speak to locals. They know the lay of the land, where to go and what to avoid. It can save you money by simply conversing.
Have a plan
Arriving with a plan at a new location is advisable. It means that you don’t waste time and money looking around. Efficiency is the key here, saves you time and money to do things you actually want to do.
Go grocery shopping when you arrive
Its always worth going shopping early on as it can save you so much money. Eating out all the time is expensive. Taking your own food with you can cut your costs dramatically. Any experienced traveller will always stock up on snacks and food. Again, it saves money for activities that give you the most value.
Activities
Check out free activities
Often you will find that places that normally charge to visit have times in the week where they don’t. Make the most of these time slots and save money. Either visit their website or call them to ask. It can be well worth it for a few minutes of effort.
Not all things cost money
Many tourist attractions charge to visit, we know this. To really appreciate a new place, you need to witness the culture. You can do that for free. Take some time to see how people live, what they do, interact and where they shop. It will open your eyes and make your trip all the more memorable.
Remember that the locals don’t go to tourist attractions, but they have beaches they go to or particular areas for celebrations. Do your research, it might well be worth it.
Less is more
Travelers can get addicted to always being on the move. In some ways, staying still can be just as rewarding. Spending a little longer in one place means to get to really know and experience a place. It is also cheaper when you factor in discounts and less travel.
Transport
Traveling overnight
It makes sense to travel overnight, especially longer distances. This way, you can avoid accommodation costs and potentially have more of your day available for things you want to do.
Get walking
It always amazes me how often people jump on public transport or into taxis. To really get to see a place, you need to walk. Wear out some show leather for a real understanding of a place. Trust me when I say it is worth it.
Get biking
Most major tourist places and cities have some form of bike rental. Not only is it cheap, it is healthy too. Get on your bike if walking is a little too slow for you.
Share Transport Costs
Invariably, there will be other travellers that will also be heading in your direction. If you are sociable enough to find out, you can save money by sharing the cost of taxis or mini vans. You may also be able to arrange some group discounts. I really pays to be sociable in this case.
Accommodation
Airbnb
If you have never tried Airbnb, I highly recommend that you give it a go. Not only can you get discounts on longer stays, it also allows you to stay in more comfortable places for less money than commercial places. They really are making a big change to the travel industry.
Rent an Apartment
If there are a few of you or you simply fancy more space, consider renting an apartment for a short let. You can also find them through Airbnb.
Hostel stays
Some people are totally against hostel stays…maybe they have seen the films! I can however say that they are not as bad as some would suggest. They are geared up for travellers and short stays. They are fully equipped and geared up for it. Often, the will have female only rooms but regardless, there are plenty of people around to ensure your safety.
Couch Surf
A recent phenomenon for likeminded travellers, the idea is that people open up their homes and they are expected to do the same…pass it forward if you like. The reality is that this can be a hit and miss experience. It’s definitely worth looking more into it before you commit to anything…but it is definitely the cheapest accommodation option.
Camping
This is a little considered option but it can make a lot of sense. It is cheap and cheerful and obviously the expectations are a lot lower. Yet, it can deliver the best fun and experiences, especially if there are a few of you.
Financial
Card with no foreign transaction fees
Banks differ quite considerably when it comes to foreign transactions. Simply using a cash machine abroad can lead to some hefty charges. It is worth having a look around for bank accounts or credit cards that don’t charge for transactions abroad. It is definitely the smart option to arrange this with plenty of time before your holiday. You can also consider carrying cash on your travels.
Coupons
Don’t be afraid to search out discount coupons. Often, you will find them in tourist pamphlets on hotel foyers. Its also worth searching them out online and on voucher sites. You can make some great savings with a little bit of research.
Credit Card Reward Points
If you use credit cards, consider one that gives you points when you use them. This may well be for airline points or hotel discounts. If you use them for a period of time, you may accumulate some decent discounts.
Don’t be afraid to haggle
Haggling is expected in some countries; it is part of the culture. Don’t be shy of making an offer and talking about it. Trust me, it is expected. However, consider paying a sum that is fair. Remember, some countries are poor so you saving an extra penny won’t make much difference to your life.
Pre-Paid Travel Money Cards
They are a safe way to transport money and avoid transaction fees. Used by many experienced travellers, they are easily accessible and safe.
Get a local sim card
Using your phone with your sim can prove to be very expensive, especially with data charges. If you are staying in that country a while, consider getting a new sim. It will save you money.
Internet Access
Before you arrive at your destination, make sure you know where to get free WIFI. We take it for granted here, but it is not always the case everywhere.
Remember that there are so many apps that give you free phone and video calls over WIFI. Make the most of them when you are connected.
Currency strength
When planning your travels, one thing many people fail to research is the strength of the currency. Both yours and the destination you are looking at. If your currency is strong, it can go a whole lot further in your holiday destination. If in comparison, your currency is weak, your holiday could be more expensive than you anticipated.
Food
Don’t buy snacks…pack them
Its amazing what people will pay for convenience. Buying snacks individually is very expensive and it soon adds up. The better option is to buy a family pack, and put some items in your bag every day.
Avoid peak times at restaurants
The cheaper option is to look for specials earlier in the day if you want to eat out. This is when most restaurants need to fill their tables. Eating in the evening is very expensive in comparison.
Avoid tourist hotspots
Regardless of where you go, the main tourist areas are over priced and low quality in general. Move out of those areas and the prices get more reasonable. As they say…eat where the locals do, for the more authentic experience.
I hope this article on ways to save money on travel, helps you save money and make your money go a little further. As you can see, simply taking the time to consider things will help you save money. Plan ahead is the crux of the story here.
Let me know if there is something you would add to the list. What has been your experience? Where were your biggest savings…share with the community here.
You may be interested in reading;
15 Airport Hacks to Travel Like a Pro