The Budget Travel Playbook: 6 Ways to See More and Spend Less
From food truck finds to free tours, these expert tips prove that exploring major cities on a budget is not only doable but also enjoyable
Whether you're craving a quick weekend away or planning your next big adventure, exploring world-class cities on a modest budget is easier than you might think. Here’s how to soak up the best of any destination—without racking up debt.
Research cheap (or free!) things to do
A little research could uncover a gold mine of free things to do—from attractions to festivals. Before packing your bags, log into AAA.com for exclusive AAA member discounts on attractions and entertainment across the US. Also check out your destination’s tourism website and destination-specific Reddit threads to learn about parks, museums, open-air markets, local library events, and other low-cost attractions to add to your itinerary.
Budget-friendly bonus: Free or donation-based walking tours are another underrated gem offered in most major cities. They’re often led by locals, giving you access to insider knowledge and history without the high price tag.
Choose local gems over upscale restaurants
Follow your nose (and the crowd) to food trucks, street food markets, hole-in-the-wall eateries, and casual grocery stores with grab-and-go options. Not only will the prices be friendlier on the budget, but you’ll also get a more authentic taste of the city’s real food culture.
If you prefer to sample higher-end spots without the high price tag, download the AAA Mobile app and check sites such as Groupon or Yelp for restaurant discounts and happy hour specials.
Budget-friendly bonus: Book a hotel with a free breakfast to free up your food budget for lunch and dinner.
Use public transport
Subways, buses, and trams are often efficient, affordable, and a great way to see a city from the inside out. Many cities offer multiday transit passes that give you unlimited rides for a flat rate—ideal for visitors on a budget.
Budget-friendly bonus: If your destination city is walkable, explore on foot or rent a city bike for short trips. It’s cheaper than a taxi and gives you an up-close view of the city without the hassle of parking. For longer distances, consider budget-friendly rideshares or splitting the cost with travel companions.
Seize hotel rewards and discounts
Hotel prices can make or break a trip, but don’t panic—there are deals to be found, even last minute. AAA members can access exclusive discounts at top hotel brands such as Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott, and Choice Hotels. Also, you can be confident in the level of quality and service you’ll receive at hotels and resorts that have earned AAA Diamonds as part of the AAA Diamond Program.
If you’re traveling during a busy season or struggling to find rooms downtown, expand your search radius. Boutique hotels just outside the city center often cost less and offer a quieter, more local experience—another win for budget travel.
Don’t forget to telephone the hotel directly, too, as online listings don’t always reflect last-minute availability or discounts. Speaking with a human can sometimes lead to an incredible, unadvertised deal.
Budget-friendly bonus: For the extra-adventurous (and budget-conscious), check out verified private rentals or consider accommodations with shared kitchens—so that you can save even more by cooking a few meals in.
Time your trip to save
When it comes to budget travel, timing is often the key to unlocking major savings. Traveling midweek or during a destination’s shoulder season (typically early spring or late fall for most US cities) can mean fewer crowds and lower prices. Staying flexible with your plans opens the door to last-minute travel deals and flash sales that more rigid itineraries just can’t accommodate.
Before you go, check out the travel deals on AAA.com. From discounted tickets and attractions to hotel bundles and car rentals, members can unlock serious savings by booking through AAA. Plus, if you ever need help planning or reworking a trip, AAA travel advisors are just a phone call away—at no extra cost.
Budget-friendly bonus: Subscribe to emails from your favorite travel providers and follow them on social media to learn about flash sales, exclusive promotions, and limited-time discounts—perfect for flexible travel at a great rate.
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With a little planning and the right tools, you can turn any city into your own budget-friendly playground. Because in the end, unforgettable travel isn’t about how much money you spend; it’s about the memories you make, the people you meet, and the creative ways you discover the world.