You don’t have to be rich to travel. And if you’re anything like me, you like to travel, but your bank account doesn’t always agree with your decision to take that trip. Whether domestic or international, there is a way to travel when your money is tight. So take that trip to the Caribbean, answer to France calling your name, or take that trip to the big apple. YOU CAN DO IT! I’ve put together a list of 10 tips and hacks on how to travel on a budget when you’re broke AF.
Everything is more expensive when you wait. Flights, hotels, cruises, and excursions will all be cheaper the earlier you book. The advantages of booking a trip in advance are simple, you’ll get the best options, you’ll have time to figure out what’s a good deal, you’ll be prepared from the get-go, and you’re guaranteed to go. Remember, planning your trip ahead of time not only gives you peace of mind, but the best price as well. You can’t travel broke AF if you don’t book in advance.
Peak seasons always mean higher prices, so travel during off-peak seasons for a cheaper trip that will still be enjoyable. Travel on Tuesday or Wednesday during work hours, these are less popular times to fly so the rates will be cheaper. You can also brave the red eye and save even more, and do it in advance. If you’re traveling to North America, book 4-9 months ahead of time. For the Caribbean and Atlantic Islands, book 6-11 months ahead of time. When visiting Central America, 3-12 months ahead of time. When visiting South America, book 3-12+ months ahead of time. If you’re visiting Europe, book 4-10 months ahead of time. If you’re visiting Asia, book 4-10 months ahead of time. If you’re traveling to Africa or the Middle East, book 6-18 months in advance. For Australia and the Pacific, book 6-12 months in advance. And for a cruise, it’s best to book 6-12 months a head of time for the best price.
You can save more money when you travel light. Ditch the checked bag and its costly storage fee and opt for a carry on bag plus a personal item. You can save $25 or more and save a ton of time avoiding the slow moving carrousel. Avoid bringing more stuff than you actually need, pack light, and save more.
Deals, deals, and more deals! Groupon is my go to for discounts on everything, and they offer great travel packages. All inclusive anyone? These deals include airfare, hotel, sometimes a car rental, and numerous accommodations. Some packages come with guided tours, unlimited food and drinks at hotel restaurants and bars, on sight activities, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Keep in mind, dates and departure cities are limited. This site is for vacationers with a flexible vacation schedule.
Hotel alternatives can help you save tremendously. There are a variety of options you can choose from including, staying at hostels, Airbnb, Couch surfing, bed and breakfast spots, or simply free loading. You can save hundreds of extra dollars when you opt for hotel alternatives.
Always try and use public transportation, walk or rent a car, over using a taxi. Try local buses and trains, or even trams, cable cars, and scooters. Taxi drivers typically overcharge tourists, so don’t let this happen to you. When you travel on a budget, you don’t want to spend any unnecessary money.
Bringing back souvenirs when traveling is a common thing, but if you can’t afford to, simply don’t or bring back free souvenirs. Buying shot glasses, key chains and t-shirts can become costly, so the best way to save is to opt for free souvenirs. Bring back a coaster from a bar, a sea shell from the beach, photos, or travel maps. These are all personalized items that your friends and family will appreciate.
You don’t always have to pay for your experiences when you’re on vacation, there are always free tours and events, you just have to be on the lookout. Things like free walking tours, historical parks and monuments, free local entertainment like street musicians and artists, festivals and markets. This is one of the best ways to travel on a budget!
An even better way to travel on a budget is with our nationwide 10% off discount to Motel 6! With over 1,100 locations at the lowest price of any national chain, Motel 6 is ideal for the budget minded traveler, and you can always count on Motel 6 to provide clean, comfortable rooms at a great price. This discount will save you even more! When making reservations, you must reference CPN02GNG to obtain the 10% off discount. To book over the phone, call this toll free number 800-466-8356 and reference the promo code. To book online, copy the code and use it through the Motel 6 website.
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