Travel is an exciting and exhilarating experience. Whether you like to go hiking in the wilderness or want to see the most metropolitan cities, or simply like to relax by a crystal blue ocean, there’s nothing quite like travel. The only downside? The cost. Travel doesn’t always come cheap. The good news is, it doesn’t have to be this way! By following just a few simple tips you can enjoy your dream vacation for a fraction of the price. Here are 10 travel hacks that will save you money:
1. Stay In The Suburbs
The cost of a city center hotel can soon mount up, so why not stay in the suburbs? No matter where in the world you are looking to stay, the chances are you’ll find some excellent hotels or bed and breakfasts in the suburbs. Choose one within a short walk or bus ride away from the city center and you’ll be close enough to enjoy everything the city has to offer, at a fraction of the price.
2. Go On A Repositioning Cruise
If you fancy going on a cruise but don’t fancy the hefty price tag, why not go on a repositioning cruise? These cruises take place when a cruise ship needs to relocate from one position to another. They’re a one way deal, but so long as you can land cheap transport for the other direction, you’ll save a lot of money! Many cruise lines offer extra entertainment on repositioning cruises too, and you can often find extra discounts online.
3. Enjoy Your Main Meal At Lunchtime
Eating out while on vacation doesn’t have to cost a lot. If you want to save money but still enjoy the best local cuisine, try eating your main meal at lunchtime. Many restaurants offer better deals at lunchtime than they do at night, so you can enjoy the same high quality cuisine at a lower price.
4. Check Out Budget Websites
Budget travel websites such as Monarch Holidays offer a wide range of deals on everything from air fares to cruises to places to stay. You can apply voucher codes and discounts at checkout, to save yourself a lot of money on travel and accommodation.
5. Travel Off Peak
Different departure times can have quite different price tags. For example, if you want to book a flight, try booking for early in the morning, or in the evening. Most people don’t like to travel then, so the prices are cheaper. If you’re taking a bus or train, avoid the weekends – departing a day or two earlier instead of traveling on a Friday or Saturday can save you a decent chunk of cash.
6. Follow The Deals
Get to know different travel providers on social media. You’ll soon notice a pattern as to when they offer their best deals. Services such as Tripcommon or Rome2Rio can help you find the cheapest deals, and alert you to new offers.
7. Go Off The Beaten Track
The big tourist hot spots usually have the biggest prices to match. When you reach your destination, try going off the beaten track. Ask at your hotel or just get talking to some locals – they’ll be able to tell you the best shops, attractions and restaurants. You’ll get a more authentic experience, and your bank account will thank you.
8. Skip The Tour
Local tours can cost a pretty penny. Instead, try out some travel apps or simply just use Google to plan out your own route and list of must-see attractions. You’ll have a lot of fun planning your trip, without paying tour prices.
9. Try Alternative Accommodation
A private rental, self catering, even a hostel or Airbnb or all feasible options for the savvy traveler. Don’t assume that a hotel is your only option. Check out some different places to stay and you can seriously slash your travel budget.
10. Look For Free Stopovers
More and more airlines are starting to offer free stopovers. Instead of spending the night in an expensive hotel or even languishing in the airport waiting room, fliers can take advantage of free stopovers and enjoy a couple of extra days sightseeing for free. Stopovers aren’t always widely advertised, so it’s worth reading the small print or simply asking.
Travel doesn’t have to break the bank. Try out these 10 travel hacks and you’ll soon be seeing the world without seeing a huge bill at the end.
