My spouse and I adore traveling. Yet, as a family of five, we’ve noticed that expenses for hotels, dining, and attractions mount up too fast. I’m sure I’m not alone in wanting to discover exciting destinations without wiping out my entire paycheck. Thus, I contacted seasoned travelers for their top budget advice…
TRANSPORTATION
Picture by Joanna Goddard
“A major way I’ve saved while traveling is by arranging my trips around flight deals, not the places. By staying open-minded about destinations, I frequently find flights that are much less costly, freeing up more of my budget to enjoy activities.” — Sophia Lopez
“Travel just ahead of major local holidays. For instance, rather than visiting Mexico City for Day of the Dead, consider going a week or two earlier. This approach makes flights, lodging, and dining more affordable and less crowded.” — Samantha Clark
“At your destination, try to walk as much as you can! Walking helps cut down on transport expenses, plus I’ve stumbled upon lovely cafés, viewpoints, and quarters by just exploring on foot, rather than taking taxis or public transit.” — Sophia Lopez
FOOD AND DRINK
Picture by Ali LaBelle
“Our essential on a road trip is a big Stanley flask. Filling it with coffee as we head out saves us from buying overpriced drinks. This thermos is so efficient, our coffee stays warm until the next day.” — Diana Moss
“Some of the most fantastic restaurant suggestions — especially budget-friendly ones — usually come from locals. So, if I find myself at a wine bar, vintage store, or bookstore, I strike up a conversation with the staff. I’m eager to learn about their favorite neighborhood spots, rather than the costly, Instagram-friendly places everyone talks about.” — Ali LaBelle
“For weeklong vacation rentals, standardizing lunch means announcing that each day’s lunch is the same, like sandwiches, chips, and fruit. This minimizes planning stress, saves the effort of cooking (even a second grader can prepare a sandwich), and naturally, cuts costs.” — Miranda Featherstone
ACTIVITIES
Picture by Jannelle Sanchez
“Traveling with small children? Check the local library’s schedule for events. Libraries often host entertaining activities throughout the week — with added perks like free snacks, clean restrooms, and air conditioning. They’re also fantastic for chatting with local parents and getting tips on other enjoyable (and free) parks and visit-worthy spots.” — Jannelle Sanchez
LODGING
Picture of Lena’s residence by Joanna
Picture of Joanna’s residence by Lena
“Our family loves to find lodging through HomeExchange (similar to the film The Holiday). We’ve secured a beautiful apartment in San Francisco; a quaint house in Bend, Oregon, where we took care of a cat and watered plants; and a bright home in Santa Barbara — all without cost. HomeExchange charges a yearly fee of $235, which is easily offset by the price of staying just one night at a hotel or Airbnb these days.” — Marian Schembari
“We use a similar house-swapping strategy, but with friends. We occasionally swap at the same time, but it’s not a requirement. For instance, my friend Lena’s family resides in a lovely house (with backyard chickens!) in San Francisco. My dad and I stayed there last New Year’s while they visited family. Recently, when we were upstate, Lena and her family stayed in our Brooklyn home. Both stays were cozy, comfortable, and delightful — at no cost.” — Joanna Goddard
CAMPING
“A fantastic method to travel economically is to camp for free on public land! I find spots using The Bureau of Land Management and Free Campsites. Some of my most cherished travel memories involve these free camping experiences.” — Elaina Jindra
What suggestions do you have? I’m eager to hear more ideas!
P.S. A clever way to select a vacation rental when traveling with children and six tips for crafting the perfect vacation.
(Top image of Samantha Clark.)
