Practical Ways to Save Money on Travel (Without Skipping the Fun!!)
Welcome back to my blog! And if it’s your first time here — trust me, you’ll be back. LMBO! So many of you have asked how to travel without breaking the bank, and I get it — money is on everyone’s mind, especially when grocery prices make you easily reconsider that fancy latte, half-whipped with oat milk and a sprinkle of cinnamon. But guess what? You don’t have to choose between seeing the world and surviving on peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for the next six months.
With a little creativity and savvy planning, you can save money and still have a blast (because what's travel without a little fun, right?). No shade, but sometimes you can’t skip that second margarita. HEHE!! Let’s dive into a few ways to pinch pennies without leaving joy, adventure, or exploration on the table. LMBO — let’s do this!
Planning (Because Winging It Isn’t Always Cheap)
No need to overcomplicate things — planning smart starts with knowing what’s even possible. First things first: when I start planning a trip, I make sure the experiences I want are actually available at that destination. This kicks off my research into potential activities and local attractions, giving me a solid starting point for adventure planning. I always ask myself: Is there a free walking tour? (Because who doesn’t love free—HAHA) Where are the hidden gems that the locals hang out at? Are there events happening that I didn’t know about?
Doing a little digging ahead of time can lead to big savings and even better adventures. When you know what’s really worth your time, you’re less likely to waste money on overpriced tourist traps. After all, time is money, but no amount of money can buy back your time. Remember that show “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire,” where you could “phone a friend”? Well, it’s kind of like that — reach out to someone who’s been to your destination to get insider tips and recommendations. Those little nuggets of information can be invaluable when planning your adventure, saving you both time and money.
Now that we have a plan locked in, let’s talk about how to make the most of your budget without compromising your experience!
2. Accommodations (Who Says You Need a Fancy Hotel to Have an Amazing Stay?)
When it comes to accommodations, you don’t always need to splurge to sleep well. From cozy Airbnbs to budget-friendly hostels, there are plenty of options that won’t break the bank. Let me interject right here — personally, I don’t use hostels (hey, don’t fight me ☹️), but as a woman of a certain age, my back would NEVER forgive me for such betrayal. LOL.
Consider staying slightly outside the main tourist areas to save money while still being close enough to all the action. Plus, these spots often offer a more authentic local experience. And hey, you don’t need a suite with a view of the Eiffel Tower to have a memorable trip. Sometimes, the best moments are found in simple, unexpected places — like a cozy local café or a hidden park. The key is finding a place that provides safety, comfort, convenience, and a little bit of charm.
On my last trip to Puerto Rico, I traveled with a friend, and we split the cost of an Airbnb. The neighborhood’s walkability made it even better — everything from charming cafés to lively local shops was just a pleasant stroll away, adding to the authentic feel. The location was perfect — not only were there good restaurant options and shops to explore, but there was also a supermarket nearby. And let me tell you, having a grocery store close by is like scratching a winning lotto ticket. HAHA! Picking up a few essentials means one less meal you have to buy while you’re out.
Plus, making your own coffee and breakfast in the morning lets you fuel up without draining your wallet — so you can get right back to exploring. Total game changer for budget-conscious travelers! Not to mention, reheating leftovers from last night’s dinner takes the guesswork out of what to eat after a day of adventures. Bottom line: where you stay can make a big difference in your travel budget without sacrificing fun or the experience.
Adventures Await (Fun on a Budget — Yes, It’s Possible!)
Now that we’re prepared and our stomachs aren’t growling (trust me, it happens to me at the most embarrassing times — don’t judge me, HAHA), let’s head outside!
Embrace free or low-cost local attractions — many cities offer activities like free museums, parks, and art galleries that won’t cost much or anything at all. Take a stroll through botanical gardens or explore a free art exhibit for a deeper connection to the local culture. Keep an eye out for local events happening during your stay, like street festivals, farmers’ markets, or community concerts. You might even stumble upon free outdoor exercise classes, food trucks, and art shows — all perfect ways to explore your destination while staying within your budget. It’s all about embracing the unexpected!
While guided tours can be pricey, look for free walking tours led by locals — many cities offer these! For example, check out Guru Walk, a great way to explore and learn insider details about the area. I’ve personally used this site during international travel, and most of their tours are offered in cities around the world, making it a go-to for those seeking local experiences abroad. Whatever you end up tipping the guide, it’s often still cheaper than a formal tour, with just as much depth and local flavor. These tours are free, and the guides are offering their time and knowledge, so let’s not be too cheap. IJS!!
And while you have the guide’s attention, don’t forget to ask about other points of interest they recommend — you might discover even more to explore.
Speaking of budget-friendly options, I’m not going to drop any hints, but my next travel location has an awesome metro system. On average, the fare may cost anywhere between $0.35 - $0.85 depending on the distance and metro line — so you know I’ll be splurging a WHOLE $10 on a metro card and GO wherever the GOING takes me. LMBO!
Do you have a favorite budget-friendly stay or travel hack? I’d love to hear what’s worked for you! Drop your comments in the chat — let’s swap secrets 😉 (unless it’s sleeping on a hostel bunk bed, no thanks). And hey, if my caffeine-fueled adventures have made you smile or plan smarter, feel free to send some coffee love via CashApp, Venmo, or PayPal. Until the next adventure — take care and keep exploring! ☕🌍✈️
I was all in until you said something about cooking. I don't wanna cook on vacation but it can save some dollars. Nice article!!