Whether you are chasing sunsets in Santorini or wandering markets in Morocco, travel is one of the most rewarding experiences you can give yourself. It can also sneakily chip away at your savings. But here is the good news, saving money while traveling is totally doable if you pack a plan along with your passport. Here are the best budget travel tips, drawn from expert sources like Fidelity, Vogue, and HGTV, that will help you travel smarter, not poorer.

Ways to Save on Travel Costs

1. Book flights early and stay flexible

Want to save hundreds without doing anything too crazy? Just book early. Fidelity notes that for domestic trips, flights are cheapest about 1 to 3 months out. For international travel, start looking 2 to 8 months ahead. If your dates are flexible, that is even better. Midweek flights, especially Tuesdays and Wednesdays, often cost significantly less.

Vogue takes it a step further, advising travelers to stay open not only with dates but also destinations. If your only goal is to get away, a flexible mindset can unlock serious deals you would not have found otherwise.

2. Consider flying into smaller airports

Major airports usually come with major price tags. Check out flights into nearby secondary airports, especially in Europe or the U.S. northeast. These alternatives may require a short train or bus ride, but the savings can be real.

Bonus: smaller airports often have shorter lines and a calmer vibe.

3. Rethink where you stay

Lodging is usually your biggest expense after airfare, but it is also your biggest opportunity to save. Fidelity recommends checking into vacation rentals, hostels, or even house swaps. Having access to a kitchen can cut your food budget dramatically.

HGTV encourages travelers to consider staying in neighborhoods just outside tourist centers. You get better prices, quieter nights, and often, a more authentic feel. Call the hotel directly to ask about unlisted discounts for AAA, military, or student travelers.

4. Use public transportation

Skip the rental car. Not only are they expensive, they often come with added headaches like gas, insurance, tolls, and parking. Public transit is cheaper, easier in most major cities, and gets you closer to everyday life where you are visiting.

Fidelity also suggests comparing the cost of flying versus driving. If you are road-tripping, bring snacks, refillable water bottles, and plan fuel stops ahead of time with apps that show the cheapest gas.

5. Be smart with meals

You do not have to skip out on all restaurant meals, just balance the budget. Try eating like a local — think food trucks, street stalls, or quick-service cafes. Buy groceries and make your own breakfast or lunch.

6. Use the right credit cards and travel rewards

Before you book anything, check if your credit card offers cash back, travel insurance, rental car coverage, or points that can be used toward hotels and flights. According to Fidelity, the best bang for your buck with points usually comes from using them for travel. Also, sign up for loyalty programs with airlines and hotels.

7. Pack super light

Don’t travel super heavy. Travel light. HGTV even suggests borrowing or renting gear instead of bringing your own if you need bulky items like skis or scuba gear.

8. Prioritize free activities

The best parts of travel are often free — think hiking trails, beaches, public art, city parks, and local festivals. Many cities offer free walking tours (tip your guide), or museums with free or discounted entry on certain days.

Vogue and Fidelity both say it is smart to balance your splurges. If you want to do one big ticket activity, like a hot air balloon ride or fine dining, plan the rest of your day around low-cost fun.

9. Set a realistic travel budget and stick to it

Yes, you need a budget even on vacation. Fidelity recommends creating a dedicated vacation savings account so you do not dip into your emergency fund or rack up credit card debt. Saving gradually over time, even a little bit every week, helps make travel less financially stressful.

Use a budgeting app to track expenses while you travel. Seeing how much you have spent each day can help keep you on track and avoid that scary credit card bill later.

10. Save on Those Fees

Shop and dine a few blocks away from major attractions, and you will often get better value. HGTV also warns about sneaky fees — like resort charges, service fees, and local taxes — that often are not shown until checkout.

Also, research common scams in your destination so you do not fall for “free” souvenirs, unofficial taxis, or currency exchange traps. Knowing what to expect ahead of time can save you big time.

Final boarding call

Budget travel does not mean boring travel. In fact, being smart with your money can make your trip richer — not just in dollars, but in experience. With a little flexibility, a lot of research, and the tips above, you can enjoy a memorable adventure without draining your savings.

So plan wisely, pack smart, and go live your main character moment, all while staying under budget.