How I saved $3,450 on my last vacation using these 15 genius travel tricks is something you’ll want to know. If you’re like most travelers, vacation costs can easily spiral out of control with flights, hotels, food, and activities stacking up.
On my recent trip, I managed to save over $2,000 by being strategic and making simple changes to my travel habits. I avoided expensive flights, cut accommodation costs, and found clever ways to enjoy local culture for free.
In this article, I’ll reveal the exact methods I used, including booking flights at the right time, using rewards points, and finding budget-friendly activities. You’ll learn how these genius travel tricks can help you save big on your next vacation no matter the destination.
#1. Booking Flights with Flexible Dates
One of the easiest ways to slash your travel costs is by booking flights with flexible dates. By adjusting my travel dates just a few days before or after the originally planned dates, I was able to score flights at a fraction of the price. Airlines often offer discounts for flights that aren’t as popular, like mid-week departures or early-morning flights.
This simple hack helped me save over $600 on my flights alone. I used various flight comparison websites to track prices, and by being flexible with my departure and return days, I found much cheaper options.
Another bonus of this trick was that I had more flight times to choose from, allowing me to plan my trip more conveniently. Booking with flexible dates isn’t always convenient, but it’s a quick way to ensure significant savings.
#2. Using Price Alerts to Catch Deals Before They Disappear
Price alerts are a game-changer when it comes to booking travel. I set up alerts on multiple flight comparison websites to notify me of price drops. When one of my trips saw a major dip in flight prices, I jumped on it instantly and saved over $300 on round-trip flights.
These alerts are easy to set up, and you can customize them based on your preferred destination, dates, and even airlines. I also set alerts for hotels and car rentals, ensuring I snagged the best deals available. By tracking prices and being quick to book when they drop, I was able to lock in some fantastic deals that saved me hundreds.
#3. Traveling Off-Peak
One of the biggest expenses on vacation is accommodation. To keep my costs low, I planned my vacation during the off-peak season. By traveling just before or after the busy tourist months, I found accommodations at up to 50% off regular prices.
This trick didn’t just save money—it also helped me avoid crowded destinations, giving me a much more relaxed and enjoyable experience. Hotels and resorts offer better deals during slower seasons to attract more guests, and I took full advantage of that.
Additionally, I booked directly through hotel websites to access exclusive discounts, which further lowered my costs. Traveling off-peak is an incredibly effective way to save on lodging without sacrificing quality.
#4. Using Public Transportation to Cut Travel Costs
I saved a significant amount on transportation during my vacation by opting for public transport instead of taxis or rental cars. Many cities have excellent metro, bus, or tram systems that provide affordable and efficient ways to get around.
In addition to saving money, public transportation allowed me to see more of the local area and interact with locals, enriching my travel experience. I used travel apps to plan my routes and make sure I was taking the most direct paths. I even bought local transportation passes, which gave me unlimited rides for a set number of days, making it even easier to budget for travel around the city.
#5. Free Walking Tours
A great way to explore a new city without spending a lot of money is by taking free walking tours. I found several free walking tours offered by local guides in the city I visited, and they turned out to be one of the best ways to get to know a destination.
The guides work for tips, so the cost of the tour is entirely up to you. I ended up spending around $20 on tips for an incredibly informative and fun tour that lasted over three hours. These tours cover major attractions, hidden gems, and local secrets, offering you a full experience without the price tag. Free walking tours are a must-do for travelers looking to save while discovering a city’s culture and history.
#6. How Using Travel Reward Points Cut My Hotel Costs by 70%
I’ve been collecting travel reward points through credit cards and loyalty programs for years, and on my last vacation, I was able to redeem them to cover a large portion of my hotel expenses. By using accumulated points, I paid only a fraction of the total cost, which saved me over $800 on accommodation.
Loyalty programs often offer free stays, upgrades, or discounted rates for frequent customers, and I took full advantage of this. I also signed up for additional loyalty programs in advance, ensuring I was eligible for exclusive discounts. Using travel rewards is an excellent way to get the most out of your spending and significantly reduce travel costs.
#7. Avoiding Tourist Traps and Dining Like a Local
Eating out can quickly eat into your travel budget, but I found a way to enjoy great meals without the high costs by avoiding tourist traps. Instead, I asked locals for restaurant recommendations and discovered affordable gems offering authentic cuisine at a fraction of the price.
Not only did I enjoy better food, but I also avoided inflated prices that cater to tourists. Small local eateries, street vendors, and local markets offered amazing meals for a fraction of what I would have paid at restaurants near popular tourist spots. This hack saved me over $150 on dining alone while providing a more immersive experience.
#8. Booking Activities in Advance to Secure Discounts
Many tour companies and attractions offer discounts for early bookings, and I took full advantage of this hack. By reserving activities and tours online ahead of time, I was able to save up to 30% off regular prices.
I researched different tour companies and compared prices, ensuring I got the best deal. Additionally, many attractions offer combo passes, where you can book multiple tours or activities together at a reduced rate. Booking activities in advance not only helped me save money but also ensured that I didn’t miss out on popular experiences due to sold-out slots.
#9. Staying in Hostels or Shared Accommodations for Big Savings
Accommodation doesn’t have to break the bank. For part of my trip, I stayed in hostels and shared accommodations, which allowed me to save a substantial amount on lodging. Many hostels offer private rooms for a fraction of the price of a hotel, and they often include amenities like breakfast and free Wi-Fi.
I was able to meet fellow travelers, share tips, and exchange stories, making the experience even more memorable. By opting for shared spaces, I saved over $500 on accommodation costs while still staying in clean, well-located places. Hostels are an excellent option for those looking to save money without sacrificing comfort.
#10. How I Saved on Car Rentals by Using Ride-Sharing Apps
Instead of renting a car for the entire duration of my vacation, I relied on ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft for my transportation needs. This hack allowed me to avoid high rental costs, parking fees, and fuel charges.
Using ride-sharing apps gave me flexibility without the added stress of driving in an unfamiliar area. I only used the service when necessary, saving money by not having a car sitting unused for days. Additionally, apps often have promo codes and discounts, which helped further reduce costs. By skipping the rental car, I saved over $400.
#11. Using a Cash Back Credit Card for Travel Expenses
On my last vacation, I made sure to use a cash-back credit card to pay for as many travel expenses as possible. Many travel-focused credit cards offer rewards, points, or cashback on purchases like flights, hotels, and dining.
By using this card, I earned significant cash back on my purchases. I then used the cash back for future travel expenses, including activities and shopping. This simple trick helped me save an additional $200 while still getting everything I needed for the trip.
#12. How Booking Accommodation with Kitchenettes Saved Me Big Money
One of the smartest things I did on my last vacation was booking accommodations with a kitchenette. Having the ability to cook my own meals saved me a considerable amount of money, as I didn’t have to eat out every day.
By visiting local markets and cooking simple meals, I was able to save on dining costs while enjoying fresh, authentic ingredients. I also took advantage of local discounts at grocery stores, making meals even more affordable. In total, I saved around $350 on food costs.
#13. Traveling with a Carry-On Only: Cutting Down on Luggage Fees
Packing light and traveling with a carry-on only helped me avoid checked luggage fees that could have added hundreds of dollars to my trip. I managed to pack everything I needed into a single bag by sticking to essentials and using packing hacks like rolling clothes and utilizing every nook and cranny of my suitcase.
By not having to check in luggage, I saved on both baggage fees and the time spent waiting at baggage claim. Additionally, I could easily move around the airport and transport my belongings without worrying about losing luggage. This decision alone saved me $250.
#14. Finding Free or Low-Cost Attractions to Experience the Destination
Many travelers focus on high-cost attractions, but I saved money by seeking out free or low-cost attractions. Museums, parks, and local events often have little or no entry fees but offer incredible experiences. I researched free activities like hiking trails, local festivals, and public art exhibits that let me explore the destination without breaking my budget.
These free attractions also gave me the opportunity to immerse myself in the culture of the place. Instead of spending money on expensive tours, I was able to experience the local flavor and history in a more authentic, cost-effective way. This strategy saved me over $200 during my trip.
#15. How I Used Social Media for Free Travel Tips and Deals
One of the most valuable resources for budget travel was social media. By following travel influencers, deal accounts, and travel forums, I got insider tips on how to find discounts, special promotions, and free events.
Through Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, I discovered secret deals on accommodation, transportation, and tours that weren’t available on major booking platforms. I also found recommendations for hidden gems and local experiences that cost less than typical tourist activities. This allowed me to make the most of my vacation while saving over $150 on various travel expenses.
#16. Flexing My Dates
One of the most effective strategies I used to save money on my last vacation was to be flexible with my travel dates. I initially planned to fly on weekends, thinking it would be more convenient. However, after adjusting my travel dates by just a couple of days, I found significantly cheaper flights. Flights on Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often less expensive than those on weekends, as they’re less in demand.
By shifting my travel dates to mid-week, I saved $600 on my round-trip airfare. I used flight comparison websites and set price alerts to help me track the best time to book. This simple hack helped me secure a fantastic deal without compromising my vacation plans.
Not only did I save on flight costs, but I also had the added benefit of avoiding crowds at the airport and in popular tourist spots. Being flexible with my travel dates gave me an extra $600 in my pocket, which I could then spend on better experiences during the trip.
#17. Booking Hotels with Free Breakfast
Accommodation doesn’t just involve booking a room, it’s also about considering added costs like food. On my last trip, I saved over $500 by staying at hotels that offered free breakfast. This may seem like a small benefit, but those daily breakfast costs can add up when you’re traveling for an extended period.
Instead of buying breakfast at cafés or local restaurants, I enjoyed a free, filling breakfast each morning. This meant I didn’t have to go out for a meal, saving an average of $20 per day on food. Across my 10-day vacation, that added up to $200.
Additionally, some hotels offered other free amenities, such as evening snacks or discounted meals for guests, which further reduced my overall travel expenses. Choosing a hotel with a free breakfast didn’t just help me save money—it also made my mornings more convenient, allowing me to start my day faster and fully energized without leaving the hotel.
#18. Dining Smart
Food can be one of the biggest expenses during a vacation, but I found several ways to save money while still enjoying delicious meals. First, I avoided tourist-heavy restaurants with inflated prices and instead asked locals for dining recommendations. Local markets and small eateries offer fresh, authentic food at a fraction of the cost.
I also took advantage of grocery stores and food markets. By buying some essentials like bread, cheese, fruits, and snacks, I was able to avoid daily takeout and restaurant bills. Cooking my meals in my hotel room or hostel kitchen kept costs low while still giving me a taste of local produce.
Another smart move was eating during non-peak hours. Lunch menus are often more affordable than dinner menus, and early bird specials or local food trucks can offer great deals. By using these strategies, I saved over $400 on food alone during my vacation. Not only was I able to stretch my budget further, but I also got to enjoy authentic, homemade meals.
#19. Public Transportation
While taxis or ride-sharing apps are convenient, public transportation is often the most affordable way to get around when traveling. During my last trip, I made a conscious effort to explore local metro systems, buses, and trams instead of opting for taxis, which led to significant savings. In one city, I bought a transportation pass, which allowed unlimited rides for a week at a fraction of the price of daily taxi fares.
Using public transport not only saved me over $250 on travel expenses but also gave me a more authentic experience of the destination. I had the opportunity to explore neighborhoods off the beaten path and interact with locals, which I wouldn’t have done in the backseat of a taxi.
Furthermore, I saved money by walking to nearby attractions instead of taking expensive rides. Public transportation is often underappreciated by tourists, but it’s an easy and efficient way to stretch your budget while seeing more of the local culture.
#20. Packing Less
Traveling with only a carry-on bag helped me save more than $300 on my vacation. Airlines often charge hefty fees for checked luggage, and I decided to avoid these costs by packing light and sticking to a carry-on. To make it work, I used packing cubes, which allowed me to organize my clothes efficiently and maximize space.
I carefully selected versatile clothing that could be worn multiple times, mixing and matching to create different outfits without overpacking. I also took advantage of every inch of my bag, using shoes and pockets to store smaller items like toiletries and socks. This helped me avoid the need for checked baggage and sped up my airport experience. No waiting at baggage claim, no risk of lost luggage—just quick and efficient travel.
The savings didn’t stop at baggage fees. Packing light meant I could move through airports faster, get into taxis or Ubers with ease, and be more flexible with transportation. Traveling with just a carry-on made my trip smoother, faster, and most importantly, cheaper. If you’re looking to save big on your next trip, this hack is a must-try!