Travel Smart Without Overspending

A vacation doesn't have to break the bank. With some thoughtful planning and strategic choices, you can enjoy a rewarding getaway without overspending. Travel experts agree that the key to saving money while vacation planning lies in flexibility, preparation, and knowing where to cut costs without cutting enjoyment.

One of the most effective ways to save money on travel is to be flexible with your dates. Flying during off-peak seasons can lead to significant savings. Amelia Edelman told NPR, "In 2022, I brought my family of three to the Greek island of Santorini, a popular summer destination, in January. The flights were just $500 per person round trip. If we had been dead-set on hitting dream summer weather, the flights would have been over $1,000 each." According to travel analyst Katy Nastro, "Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be the cheapest days to fly, and shoulder seasons - like late spring or early fall - offer the best mix of good weather and low prices."

Choosing your destination wisely can also help. Popular cities during high season often come with a hefty price tag, from hotel rates to dining. Instead, consider less-touristy alternatives that offer similar experiences at a fraction of the cost. If your dream destination is out of budget, look for an affordable lookalike. For example, if you're a Francophile but can't swing the trans-Atlantic trip to Paris, try a shorter flight to Montreal or Quebec City. A study from Hopper found that travelers can save up to 40% by picking a secondary destination over a major tourist hub. Think of Asheville instead of Denver, or Porto instead of Lisbon.

Accommodations can be another budget-buster, but there are smart alternatives. Hostels and boutique inns can offer charm and savings. Travelers often assume that a vacation rental like Airbnb or VRBO will be more affordable than a hotel, but that's not always the case. According to reporting from The Points Guy, the average daily Airbnb rate in 2023 was 36% higher than it was just three years prior. During that same time period, Hilton's average rates increased by 7.8%. However, vacation rental platforms like Airbnb or VRBO often offer discounts for longer stays or off-season bookings. For families, booking a rental with a kitchen can significantly reduce the cost of meals by allowing you to cook a few times rather than dining out for every meal.

Transportation savings extend beyond airfares. Consider public transportation over rental cars, or bundle flights and hotels for package discounts. "Many people overlook bundle deals because they assume it's cheaper to book everything separately," says travel blogger and budget expert Danielle Corbett. "But in many cases, packages from reputable travel agencies or airline websites can be much cheaper - and come with fewer booking headaches."

Planning ahead is essential when it comes to excursions and attractions. Look for city tourism cards or bundle tickets that offer access to multiple locations for one flat rate. Booking popular activities in advance online often comes with discounts compared to paying on the spot. Because food, activities, nightlife, and even shopping in the touristy center of town tend to be more expensive, try to get off the beaten path. "Times Square or Hollywood, that's where you're going to spend all your money," says travel journalist Brittney Oliver. And don't forget to check for student, military, senior, or AAA discounts, which are often quietly offered but not always advertised.

Lastly, use apps and rewards programs and tools to monitor prices, schedules, and upgrades. "If you travel frequently or even just once a year, using a credit card with travel points can be a game-changer," advises Brian Kelly, founder of The Points Guy. If you're going to pay for travel with points, use them strategically. Don't waste points on something that could be cheaper out of pocket; always compare the cash vs. points price of a flight, for example, to find your best cent-per-point value. Using your credit card while traveling can set you up for budgeting failure by making you unaware of how much you've actually spent, says Oliver. And if you can't pay off that credit card bill when it arrives, you'll be racking up interest charges and fees - which you definitely don't want.

Planning a vacation should be exciting, not financially stressful. You can travel smart and still create unforgettable memories, without going into debt to do it!