- Subscribe to Travelzoo!
Travelzoo is my favorite online deal finder, because it sends out one newsletter per week with the best travel deals around the world! For years, I’ve had my eye on a trip to Ireland that includes airfare, lodging, and a rental car for about $900! Maybe I should just go for it one of these days! The deals won’t always match your immediate plans, but they certainly provide a foundation for new plans!
- Take the Bus!
Most of my adventures have happened because of MEGABUS! In California, MEGABUS runs between Los Angeles and Oakland/San Francisco/San Jose and Las Vegas for as little as $1 each way! Even though prices go up as more people buy tickets, a round-trip fare aboard MEGABUS will still save you some big bucks when you factor in gas prices and car maintenance costs! My favorite thing about MEGABUS is that it can take you to your destination overnight, which really minimizes the hassle of getting there! They’re located all over the globe, so check their website to see if there’s a MEGABUS stop near you!
- Pack a Snack!
Food adds up when you’re traveling, and while it’s great to sample the local fare, if you’re really on a budget, visit a local market and pick up some snacks! You can usually get more for less at markets and grocery stores, compared to a restaurant, and I’ve been very pleasantly surprised by some of the trail mixes I’ve gotten to try! If you limit your restaurant visits for experience and flavor, rather than just the necessity of eating, you’ll save a lot! Also, on a side note, try fast food at least once when you visit another country. You’ll be surprised at how much better it can be outside the US!
- Try Hotel Alternatives!
I have two great app recommendations: AirBNB and Couchsurfing! These apps allow people to rent space in their homes for as little as $30/night! Luckily, these folks all come with reviews from previous visitors, so it’s pretty easy to figure out which places are nicer, and safer, than others!
If you’re not too keen on staying with strangers, start making friends in far-off places! I’ve stayed with some pen pals and had offers to stay with relatives of friends, which makes the experience so much more memorable than many of the hotels where I’ve stayed.
One of my favorite investments so far has been a tent! A campground costs far less than the average hotel room (some are free), and there are quite a few nice ones with showers, laundry, and other amenities! Just make sure you’re prepared!
- Join a Rewards Program!
The beauty of rewards programs is that you can make your daily expenses count toward travel! Last year, I joined rewards programs for Amtrak, American Airlines, and Capital One, and I am looking forward to using my regular grocery money to fund some travel this year! Of course, it’s important to be responsible with your spending, but if you’re careful, it’s a great feeling to reach those free ticket limits!