How to Travel Cheap: 11 Hacks for Affordable Adventures
March 11, 2025
Many people dream about traveling, but all too often, those dreams are put on hold due to financial constraints. If you’re an adventurer at heart and wondering how to travel cheap, you're in the right place.
Travel is more than just about visiting new places — it’s about the adventure and experiencing something new. Whether wandering through bustling city streets, soaking in the beauty of nature or immersing yourself in a different culture, traveling can truly transform and enrich our lives.
You might be surprised to learn this, but traveling doesn’t have to be expensive. With some creativity, planning and flexibility, you can travel on a budget without sacrificing the experience. It’s not about cutting corners but being resourceful to maximize your adventure.
Below, we’ll share 11 proven hacks to help you learn how to save money on travel — covering everything from scoring cheap flights and accommodation to finding affordable experiences and hidden gems along the way.
1. Set a Budget and Stick to It
Sticking to a budget can be a bit daunting if you’re not used to doing it. But it’s a crucial step to take if you want to avoid overspending and ensure you stay within your means.
Learning how to travel on a budget is an acquired skill, but it’s one you can easily learn — just follow our three steps for how to create a travel budget:
- Start by estimating the major expenses, such as flights, accommodation, meals, transportation and activities, and assign a specific amount to each. This will give you a clear picture of how much you can spend in each category.
- Be realistic about your expenses and include a small buffer for unexpected costs, like last-minute excursions or emergencies.
- Break down your budget into categories to stay organized and prevent overspending in one area, such as dining or souvenirs.
Once your budget is in place, the key is to stick to it. Keep track of your daily expenses and adjust if necessary. Staying mindful of your spending will help you make the most of your trip without financial stress. And remember, as an AAA member, you can access various AAA discounts .
For additional help in planning and saving for your dream vacation, consider using Trip Canvas . This tool can help you organize your trip, find budget-friendly options and keep track of your expenses to ensure you stay within your budget.
2. Use Money-Saving Apps to Track Your Expenses
Money-saving apps are a great way to stay on top of your spending while traveling, helping you stick to your budget. Apps like those that track your daily expenses or monitor your bank account can alert you when you’re getting close to your limits. This allows you to adjust on the go — whether by opting for cheaper meals or cutting back on activities.
Many apps also allow you to set travel-specific goals, like keeping your food or transportation costs under a certain amount. Some even offer real-time currency conversion to help you manage expenses while abroad. Using these tools can help you better understand your financial habits and keep you from going over budget during your trip.
For a more comprehensive travel tool, consider using the AAA Mobile app . This app lets you map out your trip, find gas discounts along the way and discover local discounts at restaurants, attractions and more — whether you’re at home or traveling.
3. Book as Much as You Can on Your Own
Booking as much as you can on your own will save you significant money compared to most traditional booking methods. By directly handling flights, hotels, and transportation, you have the flexibility to choose the best deals and tailor your trip to your budget.
However, suppose you’re looking for a personalized experience with expert guidance. In that case, AAA Travel Agents can help you find the best deals and ensure your trip is as seamless and enjoyable as possible. They can provide access to exclusive discounts and expert recommendations and take the stress out of planning, ensuring you get the most value for your money.
4. Be Flexible With Dates and Destinations
Being flexible with your travel dates means avoiding peak times, like weekends or major holiday periods, when airfares tend to spike. Instead, consider mid-week flights or traveling just before or after peak seasons — times when fewer people are flying. Off-season travel may come with some weather unpredictability, but for the budget-conscious traveler, it's a small price to pay.
If you’re willing to explore destinations off the beaten path, you can enjoy lower costs on everything from meals to accommodations. By choosing less crowded spots, you can experience a more authentic side of a place and save money by avoiding the price hikes of tourist-heavy areas.
Consider emerging destinations, which are places gaining popularity that haven’t yet hit peak tourist seasons. These spots offer the excitement of discovery, with the bonus of lower prices and fewer crowds.
5. Pack Light to Avoid Extra Fees
Avoiding extra baggage fees is an easy way to save money when traveling. Many airlines charge for checked luggage, so sticking to a carry-on and single personal item can help you avoid those unnecessary costs.
To make the most of your carry-on:
- Roll your clothes instead of folding them to reduce wrinkles and save space.
- Use packing cubes to keep items organized and compact, maximizing your carry-on space.
- Pack versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched, allowing you to create multiple outfits with fewer pieces.
By packing light, you’ll save money on travel and breeze through airport security and skip the wait at baggage claim. Plus, with less to carry, you’ll have more freedom to enjoy your trip without the added stress of heavy luggage.
6. Use Budget Airlines
Utilizing budget airlines can offer significantly lower fares than major carriers. While these flights might not come with all the extras — like complimentary snacks, in-flight entertainment or extra legroom — the savings can be substantial, especially if you’re willing to travel light and skip the frills. These airlines focus on offering the basics, which means you’ll be paying for the seat and not a wide range of amenities.
Airfare is often one of the most expensive parts of a trip, but there are plenty of ways to keep those costs down. Budget airlines can be especially advantageous for short-haul or domestic flights, where the price difference can be dramatic compared to traditional carriers. With some planning, you can save hundreds of dollars on flights and redirect those savings toward activities, dining or accommodations.
7. Choose Affordable Accommodations
When finding affordable places to stay, hostels are often the go-to options for budget travelers. Hostels provide a social atmosphere and typically have shared spaces, making them great for meeting new people and saving money.
If you’re not feeling adventurous enough for a hostel, that’s okay! You can also search for hotel deals by checking out our AAA Preferred Hotels . As an AAA member, you can secure some of the best hotel deals by staying with one of our hotel partners:
Whether you’re looking for a simple room or a luxury stay, these hotels often offer discounts and added perks to make your trip more affordable. Cheap hotel accommodations will help you allocate more funds toward experiences, food and activities.
8. Use Public Transportation or Rent a Car
Whether you plan to utilize public transportation or rent a car, both have the potential to help you save money when traveling.
Using public transportation is a great way to save money when traveling. Trains, buses and metros are inexpensive and efficient for getting around, especially in a city. For shorter trips, combining public transport with a rental car can offer the best balance of cost and convenience.
If you plan on renting a car, you can save money by comparing prices and booking ahead. For longer trips, renting by the week often offers better rates than daily rentals. Additionally, AAA members can access discounts with popular rental companies like Hertz , Thrifty and Dollar .
Don't forget to factor in fuel costs. Sign up for a gas rewards program , like the Fuel Rewards Program® at Shell or Love's Connect App , to help you save each time you fill up your tank, especially if your idea of a cheap summer vacation involves a road trip.
9. Cook Your Own Meals When Possible
One of the easiest ways to save money while traveling is by preparing your own meals. Buying groceries and cooking in your hotel room for even a campsite can significantly cut food expenses. If you’re not keen on cooking every meal, consider packing snacks for in-between meals.
AAA members can save on snack packs from Harry & David and The Popcorn Factory , providing a budget-friendly and healthy way to munch on the go.
If you want to eat out, try dining like a local. With just a little research and a peek at online reviews, you can find local gems that offer delicious meals without the inflated tourist prices. For those times when you crave the familiar, AAA members can enjoy discounts at Hard Rock Cafe and Landry’s Restaurants , like Saltgrass Steak House and Rainforest Cafe.
10. Take Advantage of Free or Inexpensive Activities
Exploring free or inexpensive activities is one of the best ways to save money while making the most of your vacation. Many destinations offer an abundance of attractions that don’t require spending a dime but still provide amazing experiences. Below are five popular activities you can enjoy almost anywhere:
- Sightseeing: From famous landmarks to scenic viewpoints, sightseeing is a must-do activity that’s often completely free. Walking tours of historic neighborhoods or city centers can provide a rich, informative experience without the cost of a guide or entrance fees.
- Picnicking: Take advantage of beautiful parks, lakes or beaches by packing a picnic and enjoying a meal surrounded by nature. It’s a cost-effective option and also allows you to relax and soak in your surroundings while saving on restaurant costs.
- Hiking: Many destinations are home to stunning hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging climbs. These outdoor activities offer breathtaking views and are often free to access.
- Museums: Many cities offer free or discounted entry to museums, particularly on certain days of the week or during special events. Always check ahead to see when free days or events are scheduled.
- Local parks: Visiting a local park is a great way to experience the heart of a community. You can enjoy leisurely walks, play outdoor games or even attend free public events like outdoor yoga classes.
For even more savings, consider using AAA Tickets , which offers discounted admission to popular attractions, museums and tours. This way, you can enjoy top-tier experiences while keeping your budget intact.
11. Use Travel Credit Cards for Points and Cash Back
Travel credit cards are one of the best tools for budget travelers looking to get more out of their spending. Using a credit card offering travel rewards can earn you points or cash back for every dollar you spend. You can redeem these rewards for flights, hotel stays or car rentals, making travel expenses more manageable.
To maximize your savings, consider using your travel card for everyday purchases and paying off the balance each month to avoid interest charges.
Many travel cards also offer sign-up bonuses, where you can earn a large number of points or cash back after meeting a spending threshold. Additionally, look for cards with no foreign transaction fees, which can help you save when traveling abroad.
How to Travel Cheap FAQ
Traveling on a budget doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort or experiences. Check out our answers to these frequently asked questions about how to travel cheap.
What is the Cheapest Way to Travel Across Europe?
The cheapest way to travel across Europe is by using budget airlines, buses and trains. Low-cost carriers offer affordable flights between major cities, especially if booked in advance. For shorter distances, trains can be an economical option. Additionally, traveling by bus with companies can also offer very low fares, though it may take longer.
How Can I Locate Cheaper Flights for International Travel?
To find cheap international flights, start by booking well in advance and\. Additionally, you can save by booking your flight on a weekday or during off-peak seasons. Set price alerts to track fare drops, and consider flying into alternative airports or using budget airlines for longer-haul routes.
How Can I Travel Cheaply in the U.S.?
To travel cheaply in the U.S., consider using budget airlines, buses or trains. Plan your trips during off-peak times to avoid high season prices, book accommodations through budget-friendly options like hostels or camping, utilize public transportation within cities and take advantage of discounts through membership programs like AAA.
Maximize Your Travel Savings With AAA
Take advantage of all the great benefits AAA offers and start saving today. From discounted car rentals to travel planning services, AAA has everything you need to make your trip both affordable and memorable. Explore membership options now and unlock all your travel discounts!
If you’d rather not book everything on your own — but you also want to save money by not hiring an independent travel consultant — we are happy to assist you with budget travel planning. Check out our travel tools for more budget travel tips, or schedule an appointment with one of our knowledgeable travel agents .