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10 Ultimate Budget Travel Tips for Affordable Itineraries
Let me tell you—I love to travel. There’s something about stepping off a plane in a new country, the smell of the air, the unfamiliar sounds, and the excitement of discovery that just never gets old. But here’s the thing: travel can get expensive, and if you’re like me, you want to make every trip count without breaking the bank.
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks about finding the cheapest flights, booking the perfect place to stay, and packing in a way that makes me feel prepared without hauling around my entire closet. I want to share what I’ve learned with you, so you can plan your next trip with less stress and more savings.
Here’s the thing: travel can get expensive, and if you’re like me, you want to make every trip count without breaking the bank. Check out my travel budget tips to plan your next trip smartly.
It All Starts With the Itinerary
I used to be that traveller who just winged it. I’d show up and figure it out as I went. But let me tell you—that got chaotic fast. Now, I’m all about having a plan, and it starts with a travel itinerary.
I’m not talking about having every second of every day mapped out (because where’s the fun in that?), but having a rough outline helps. I usually start by figuring out where I want to go, how long I’ll stay, and what I can’t miss while I’m there. I like using apps like TripIt to organize my flights, hotel bookings, and activities so I’m not scrambling last minute. This way, I always have time for spontaneity but don’t miss out on the must-see spots.
How I Score the Cheapest Flight Tickets
Okay, let’s get real—flights can be expensive, especially if you’re heading abroad. But there are some hacks I’ve picked up over the years that have saved me hundreds (if not thousands) on flights. Here are my tips when you prepare to travel.
1. Be flexible with your dates.
One of the biggest ways I save on flights is by being flexible. If you’re open to flying on a Tuesday or Wednesday instead of a Friday or Saturday, you’ll often find much better deals. I always use tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner or Kiwi.com to compare prices across different days. Sometimes, shifting my trip by just a day or two can make a huge difference in price.
2. Set up price alerts.
I love a good deal, and one of the easiest ways to catch a price drop is by setting up alerts. Websites like Google Flights or Kayak let you track flights and will email you when the price changes. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve snagged a deal this way.
3. Use incognito mode.
Have you ever noticed that when you search for flights repeatedly, the price seems to creep up? It’s because flight websites track your searches with cookies, and they know you’re interested. To get around this, I search for flights in incognito mode so they can’t track my searches and inflate the prices.
4. Don’t forget budget airlines.
I know, I know—budget airlines get a bad rap. But if you’re willing to put up with a few inconveniences (like paying extra for luggage or not getting a meal), you can save a ton. I’ve flown with airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and even Southwest for next to nothing. Just remember to check the fine print, so you’re not caught off guard by fees.
5. Hidden city ticketing (but use with caution).
Okay, this is a bit of a travel hack for the more adventurous. It’s called hidden city ticketing, where you book a flight with a layover in the city you actually want to visit. You just get off at the layover and skip the second leg of the flight. Websites like Skiplagged are great for finding these flights, but be warned—you can’t check bags, and it’s not something airlines love. So use this trick wisely!
Finding cheap flights is one of the best ways to save on travel. When I visited Rome on a budget, I made sure to find the cheapest flight possible. Check out my €30 Rome one-day itinerary for tips.
Where I Stay: Finding the Perfect Accommodation
Once the flight is sorted, the next big thing is where to stay. I’ve tried it all—hotels, hostels, vacation rentals—and for every trip, finding the perfect place to stay is key. If you’re traveling to Mauritius, here’s my guide to finding great accommodations without overspending. Here’s what I’ve learned:
1. Hotels when I want comfort.
Sometimes, I just want a nice, clean hotel room where I know exactly what I’m getting. Booking.com is my favorite site for this because they usually have some great deals, especially if you book early or during off-peak times. Plus, I love booking places that offer breakfast because it saves me the hassle (and cost) of finding food first thing in the morning.
2. Hostels for social trips and saving money.
If I’m traveling solo or just looking to keep costs down, hostels are the way to go. I use Hostelworld to find clean, safe spots. It’s also a great way to meet other travellers, especially if I’m in a new city and want to make some friends.
3. Airbnb for group trips or long stays.
When I’m traveling with friends or staying in a place for a while, Airbnb is my go-to. I’ve stayed in everything from cozy apartments in Paris to beachside bungalows in Bali. It’s often cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms, and having a kitchen is a great way to save on food costs.
Travel Insurance: Why I Never Skip It Anymore
I used to be one of those people who thought, “I’ll be fine. I don’t need travel insurance.” And then I had a flight cancellation that cost me hundreds, and I lost my luggage for three days. Never again.
Now, I always buy travel insurance. It’s one of those things that you don’t think you need until you do, and then you’re so grateful you have it. Whether it’s covering medical emergencies, cancelled flights, or lost luggage, travel insurance is a small price to pay for peace of mind.
Travel Gadgets I Swear By
I like to travel light, but there are a few travel gadgets I don’t leave home without. Over the years, I’ve figured out what’s essential and what’s just extra weight. Here’s my shortlist of must-haves:
1. Power bank.
This little device has saved me more times than I can count. Whether I’m stuck in an airport with no outlets or navigating a new city with my phone on 5%, having a fully charged power bank is a lifesaver.
2. Noise-canceling headphones.
I can’t survive a long flight without these. They’re great for blocking out the engine noise or the chatter of people around me when I just want to zone out with a podcast or some music.
3. Universal travel adapter.
If you’re traveling internationally, a universal adapter is a must. It’s the kind of thing I didn’t think about until I landed in Europe and realized my chargers were useless.
4. Packing cubes.
I didn’t believe the hype at first, but packing cubes really do make a difference. They keep everything organized and help me fit more into my suitcase without things getting wrinkled or lost at the bottom.
How I Travel Sustainably
I’ll admit, I wasn’t always the most eco-conscious traveller. But over time, I’ve realized how important it is to be mindful of my environmental impact. These days, I try to make choices that are a bit more sustainable.
Eco-friendly accommodations. I’ve started staying at eco-lodges and hotels that use sustainable practices. Not only do I feel better about my stay, but these places often offer unique experiences that you wouldn’t get in a traditional hotel.
Local transportation. Instead of renting a car or relying on taxis, I’ll often use public transportation or rent a bike. It’s cheaper, more eco-friendly, and a great way to experience a city like a local.
Earning Free Flights and Perks with Travel Rewards
One of my favorite travel hacks is using travel credit cards and rewards programs to earn free flights and upgrades. If you travel even a couple of times a year, it’s worth signing up for a frequent flyer program or getting a travel credit card.
I use a Chase Sapphire Preferred card for most of my travel expenses because it earns me points that I can use for future flights or hotels. It’s like getting rewarded for something I was going to spend money on anyway. Plus, many cards offer travel insurance and no foreign transaction fees, which is a nice bonus!
Some of My Favorite Travel Destinations
If you’re wondering where to go next, here are a few places that have completely captured my heart:
One of my most adventurous trips was to Morocco. If you’re into exploring vibrant cultures, here’s my two-week Morocco itinerary for an unforgettable adventure.
Paris, France: There’s something magical about wandering the streets of Paris, from the charm of Montmartre to the grandeur of the Eiffel Tower. I could visit a hundred times and never get bored.
Bali, Indonesia: If you’re dreaming of tropical beaches, lush jungles, and affordable luxury, Bali is the place. I loved staying in a private villa for a fraction of what I’d pay in other destinations.
Tokyo, Japan: Tokyo is like stepping into the future while being surrounded by centuries of tradition. It’s busy, vibrant, and completely unforgettable.
New York City, USA: The energy of New York is unlike anywhere else. Whether I’m exploring Central Park, catching a Broadway show, or eating my way through the city’s incredible food scene, there’s always something new to discover.
Final Thoughts: Let’s Get You Ready for Your Next Adventure
So, that’s how I do it—finding the cheapest flights, picking the right accommodation, packing light, and making the most of travel rewards. With a little bit of planning, travel doesn’t have to be stressful or outrageously expensive.
If you’re ready to start planning your next adventure, here’s my complete guide to budget travel tips to help you get started!
