Traveling can be an incredible experience, but it can also be expensive. It can often feel like traveling anywhere other than your neighboring city is the only available option for those on a budget. Or if you do venture out, Micky D’s is your only food option. But rest assured, you don’t have to break the bank to see the world. With a little planning and creativity, you can travel on a budget and still have an amazing time.

Here are some tips and tricks for saving money while traveling:

1. Book in advance: One of the easiest ways to save money on travel is to book your trip well in advance. This trick is better suited for those traveling on a cruise, as you can see astronomical savings by booking a year or two in advanced. However, airlines have also been know to offer slightly cheaper fares for those who book early. Cruising in October offers some amazing rates, while the same itineraries, on the same ships, in May in June would cost almost double!

2. Use budget airlines: While they may not offer all the bells and whistles of traditional airlines, they can often be much cheaper. Just be sure to read the fine print and be aware of any extra fees before booking. Optional upgrades, like not needing to choose your seat, or even being able to travel light enough to not require a paid bag, can make all the difference. It can suck while traveling with your loved ones, as the airlines are jerks and will purposefully sit you apart, attempting to force your hand to pay the $40 per person, each way, to sit together. On the ride over we sat close by to each other by moving to an open seat once the flight was already started. On the way back we sat further away, and there weren’t any available seats to move to. But we saved $160 by opting out of selecting our own seats, and that money was well spent on other things!

3. Be flexible with your travel dates: If you have the day off from work, chances are it’s not the most affordable weekend for that trip. If you can be flexible with your travel dates, you can often save a significant amount of money. Travel in general is often cheaper during off-peak times, so consider traveling during the shoulder season or mid-week to save some cash. You can see savings in the thousands range when booking during the times children are in school which also means by avoiding holidays. 

4. Stay in budget accommodations: When it comes to accommodations, there are plenty of budget-friendly options to choose from. Hostels, Airbnb, and budget hotels can all be great choices for saving money on lodging. Just be sure to read reviews and do your research to ensure you’re getting a safe and comfortable place to stay. While staying in a nicer hotel does offer more, that’s also why it costs so much more. Hubby and I opted to stay in a budget hotel on our recent trip to Puerto Rico. Staying there for two nights was less than one night at the neighboring Hilton. It was this difference that actually allowed us to stay an extra day in Puerto Rico prior to our cruise. 

5. Eat like a local: Eating out while traveling can add up quickly, so consider eating like a local to save money. Check out local markets and street food vendors for affordable and delicious meals, and avoid touristy restaurants that often come with inflated prices. While on that same trip to Puerto Rico, we allowed ourselves one night at a fancy restaurant. And while the food was beyond delicious and worth every penny, the price tag cut deep. Meanwhile, we were able to enjoy local dishes that were just as delicious for legit 75% less of what that one bill came out to. 

6. Consider your transportation: Instead of relying on taxis or rental cars, some places offer public transportation. Not only is it cheaper, but it can also give you a more authentic experience of your destination. However, this may not be the best option, depending on your destination. Even opting for an Uber over a taxi can make a difference. Nowadays, most resorts charge a daily fee for parking. So you’re able to avoid another $20 to $50 a day! That’s a meal or two right there!

7. Look for free or discounted activities: Many cities offer free walking tours, museum days, and other activities that can help you save money while still enjoying all that your destination has to offer. National Parks, while not completely free, are usually just a few dollars per vehicle. And public beaches are always free–do your research to see if it’s financially better to drive and pay for parking or to pay for an Uber to avoid that headache. Also, look for discounts and deals online before you go to make the most of your budget. Even opting for excursions booked via Viator over the hotel’s concierge or the cruise ship directly can save you some coin.