5 Budget Travel Hacks for a Bucket-List-Worthy Vacation

When dreaming of a vacation, dollar signs can flood the brain and bring those ambitions to a halt. But what if you could secure a memorable vacation without any financial fear or regret?

If you’ve ever wondered how to travel on a budget, read on. It’s possible to take that bucket-list trip you’ve been pining for by using these travel hacks and cost-busting tips.

Avoid peak travel season

Learn when your destination’s peak season falls. This is when demand (and prices) for accommodations and activities are highest, often due to holidays, weather, or local events. Avoid these busy times to save on costs.

Sometimes coinciding your travels with a destination’s “shoulder season,” the period just before or after its peak season, can yield more affordable prices while typically offering pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Low season attracts the most budget-conscious travelers wishing to experience pricey locations for less, even if there’s a chance of less-than-ideal weather.

Choose your accommodations wisely

If traveling on a lean budget, you may do better forgoing a traditional hotel stay and booking a short-term rental. It’s especially beneficial if traveling as a large family or group. Reserving one property spacious enough to accommodate your entire party will not only reduce costs but also allow you to spread out more comfortably.

Hotel brands such as Marriott offer short-term rentals ranging from ski-in chalets and waterfront homes to mountainside cabins and luxury treehouses.

Mind the spending on food

Dining out and food-related expenses are among the biggest drivers of vacation costs, with many travelers spending a substantial amount on meals while exploring their destinations, according to the U.S. Travel Association. Buck this trend by prioritizing accommodations with a kitchen, and replace costly restaurant outings with the occasional home-cooked meal.

Tip: Whether enjoying an urban escape or beach holiday, a balcony or patio with views permits dining al fresco, ensuring you feel part of your destination, even when eating “in.”

Another way to travel on a budget when it comes to food: Consider finding local spots where you can experience authentic cuisine at a fraction of the price of tourist traps. Street food, local markets, and neighborhood cafes can offer delicious meals without breaking the bank.

Lean into local freebies

Wherever you go, seek out free activities such as live music, outdoor theater, walking tours, museum admission, national parks, and concert hall performances. Finding them can be as simple as a Google search.

Also flag social media accounts related to your destination. For instance, the Instragram pages for popular attractions, as well as influencers who know the destination well, can clue you into cool deals, such as generous happy hour offerings. Keep your eye on your destination’s official tourism website, too, to learn about free events or limited-time deals. Once in the destination, stop by an official visitor center to ask about unadvertised local freebies.

Seek out passes and discounts

Destinations offer a range of ways to save, including family and group rates, plus discounts for children, students, military, and seniors on nearly everything, such as bike rentals, museum passes, and train travel. Definitely ask about this before booking anything.

Take advantage of a “hop-on, hop-off” bus tour for affordable city exploration, and remember to make the most of your AAA member discounts to save on admissions to a slew of attractions. AAA members can also find discounts on car rentals, gas, dining and more.

Learning how to travel on a budget is all about being creative and resourceful, ensuring you have an unforgettable trip without the financial hangover.