When you’re away from home, it’s difficult to save money. There’s rarely a kitchen available if you’re staying in a hotel, so you almost always go out to eat. Also, most people go shopping when they’re on vacation, typically for things that aren’t available where they live. Occasionally a tourist trap (an establishment with overpriced goods that cater specifically to tourists) sucks you in, and you end up spending money there, too. And there’s always the danger of getting pulled into a souvenir shop with endless novelty items that you must buy.
Whatever the scenario, traveling is expensive. The cost of airfare, food, laundry, housing, transportation, and destination-specific activities really adds up. To save you the time and the trouble of creating your own list from scratch, we’ve compiled a guide to help you to save your money.
Stop carelessly spending.
Before swiping that card, remember that you’re away from home. The more items you buy, the heavier and less organized your suitcase becomes. You have to bring all of your purchases back home. What does that look like with your packing situation? Take a moment before you buy something to ask yourself these questions.
- Is it within my budget? If not, don’t buy it. If so, continue reading.
- Is it worth the price? Don’t be afraid to Google™ search the item and do a little price matching. (And remember to check with places that offer coupons or special deals.) If not, don’t buy it. If so, continue to the next question.
- Do I truly need this? If not, you know the drill. If so, then consider making the purchase.
Asking these questions will help you to consider your true need for the item. We recognize, however, that it’s not always a product that you’re purchasing while away from home. More often, you’re paying for an experience like horseback riding on the beach, ziplining, or a helicopter tour. These types of purchases require you to ask yourself just one question: Is this experience going to be memorable? Your answer will help you determine if it’s worth the money. An adrenaline rush, learning experience, or breath-taking sight will last in your mind forever. The memory alone makes it worth paying for—depending on the price. Don’t waste your money on small items; spend it on moments that last forever in your mind.
Big ways to save.
Along with being more selective and thoughtful about your spending, you can follow some of these practices to save money.
- Travel during your destination’s lowest tourist traffic season.
- Try finding an Airbnb™ or a VRBO™ instead of a hotel.
- Walk around your destination as much as possible rather than renting a car.
- Plan ahead. The earlier you book tickets and reservations, the cheaper they typically are.
- Go grocery shopping when you first arrive. Get foods that aren’t perishable, require minimal (or no) cooking, and won’t take up too much space in your room’s mini-fridge. This way you save money by not eating out for every meal.
- Eat where the locals eat. Don’t go to every fancy restaurant, get a taste of authentic cuisine at a food truck or stall!
- Don’t be shy. Talk to the locals about where to save and what attractions are worth the money!
- Sign up for a bank account that covers transaction fees and ATM withdrawal fees. This’ll save you money when you’re making purchases in foreign countries or pulling out cash for a local street vendor.
- Set a daily budget (with wiggle room in case unexpected expenses occur).
- Drive to your destination if it’s nearby. Sometimes fuel is cheaper than airfare.
Considering these tips while planning your next trip will save you a little here and there, adding up to a lot of overall savings. Our advice will also help you decide on some of the activities you’ll be doing when you arrive.
Safe travels!
Whether you’re traveling for business or vacation, you can be sure that these tips will keep your wallet full. With this information in mind and some extra money in your pocket, you’re guaranteed to have a wonderful trip. Now you’ll be stress free and ready to work or explore (maybe both).
Not sure of where to travel? If you’re in the U.S., consider visiting a national park!
