Travelling can be one of the most enriching experiences in life, offering the chance to explore new places, meet new people, and create lasting memories. But it can also be expensive, and staying within budget often feels like a challenge. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to enjoy travel without breaking the bank. Here are 15 practical tips to help you save money while still making the most of your adventures.

1. Cook Your Own Meals

Dining out every day can quickly drain your travel budget, especially in popular tourist spots. Instead, visit local supermarkets or markets and cook your own meals. Not only is it cheaper, but you’ll also get the chance to explore local ingredients and enjoy a more authentic experience. This can also be a healthier option, giving you more control over what you eat while travelling.

2. Do Your Research on Affordable Transportation

Flights, trains, buses, and even car rentals—transportation is often one of the biggest travel expenses. By researching ahead of time, you can find budget-friendly options. Use UK-specific services like Trainline for trains or National Express and Megabus for coaches. Price comparison sites like Skyscanner can help you find cheap flights, and travelling during off-peak times and avoiding holiday periods can also lead to significant savings.

3. Choose Budget Accommodation

Accommodation is another major cost, but there are plenty of ways to find affordable options. Sites like Airbnb or Booking.com are good for finding deals, especially when booked in advance. House swaps and staying outside the main tourist areas can also offer better prices.  If you prefer something a little more luxurious, then booking out of season can be an easy way to secure luxury accommodation for less. We were able to stay in a luxury townhouse in Salema, a quiet area of the Algarve in Portugal, for a third of the summer price by travelling in February, and in autumn we will save at least half of the cost on a holiday to a premium hotel in Rhodes by travelling at the end of their tourist season.

4. Travel Light with Just a Carry-On

Many airlines charge extra for checked luggage, so consider packing light and travelling with just a carry-on bag. Not only will this save you money on luggage fees, but it will also make getting around easier, especially if you’re moving from place to place frequently.  You’ll be surprised what you can fit into carry-on luggage; even with budget airlines that don’t allow a carry-on suitcase, you can be careful and even pack a week’s worth of clothing in Ryanair’s under seat baggage allowance!

5. Opt for Public Transport

Instead of splurging on taxis or rental cars, use public transport. Buses, trams, and trains are usually much more affordable and can give you a better sense of the local way of life. Public transport is a cheaper option that lets you explore more without cutting into your budget.

6. Prioritise Budget Destinations

Not all travel destinations come with a hefty price tag. Countries like Poland, Turkey, and Portugal offer fantastic travel experiences at a fraction of the cost compared to places like Paris or New York. By choosing more affordable destinations, you’ll be able to stretch your budget further while still enjoying beautiful and culturally rich locations.

7. Look for Free Cancellation Options

Booking hotels and flights in advance often leads to lower prices, but plans can change unexpectedly. Opt for free cancellation policies when possible, ensuring you can adjust your bookings without losing money if something changes at the last minute.

8. Earn Money or Volunteer While Travelling

If you’re on a long-term trip, why not explore ways to earn money while travelling? Teaching English, working in a local café, or even freelancing online can help offset travel costs. Volunteering can also provide a way to experience the local culture while reducing accommodation costs.

9. Be Smart About Your Entertainment

For those heading to places like Las Vegas or Macau, it’s obviously easy to spend more than planned! But if you’re planning to head to a casino destination, then, before going, try free online casino games to familiarise yourself with them. You can find lists on Bonus.ca of casinos with free games or bonuses, so you can enjoy the experience without overspending when you get there.  For the in-house casinos in destinations such as these, overspending can be tempting.  Set a limit to your casino budget and be strict with yourself!  Gambling should be for fun and entertainment, and therefore you should spend only what you can afford to lose.  Having been to Las Vegas a few times, my recommendation would be to stay in a cheaper motel which will be a fraction of the cost of the main hotels on the strip, and to explore the cheaper machine games where you’ll feel less peer pressure to gamble big!  Also, check out Fremont Street, the original Las Vegas, for lots of free street entertainment and some cheaper restaurants.

10. Take Advantage of Free Attractions

Many cities offer free attractions, such as parks, museums with free entry days, and public landmarks. Do some research beforehand to see what free activities are available at your destination. Walking tours, historic sites, and festivals are often available at no cost and provide a great way to explore while sticking to your budget. Walking around cities on foot and creating your own tour is also a great way to fully immerse yourself in the city for the sights, smells and proper exploration. 

11. Use Travel Reward Programmes

Sign up for UK-based reward programmes like Avios or Nectar that let you earn points for flights, hotels, or car hire. These programmes allow you to build up rewards and redeem them for future travel, helping to reduce costs on your next trip.  If you regularly stay at the same hotels, then they may have a loyalty scheme and they may even offer cheaper rates if you book direct as a repeat customer.

12. Book Flights and Accommodation in Incognito Mode

When searching for flights or accommodation, use your browser’s incognito or private mode to avoid price hikes based on your search history. Websites sometimes raise prices after multiple searches, so this simple trick can help you secure a better deal.

13. Travel with a Reusable Water Bottle

Buying bottled water can quickly add up. Instead, bring a reusable water bottle and fill it up at fountains or your accommodation. This will not only save you money but also help reduce plastic waste, especially in countries with clean drinking water.

14. Take Advantage of Local Sim Cards or UK Mobile Plans

International roaming charges can be expensive. Consider buying a local SIM card or using UK mobile plans like Three’s Go Roam or O2 Travel, which allow you to use data and calls at affordable rates while abroad. These packages can save you significant amounts on mobile charges during your trip.

15. Use Travel Apps for Discounts

There are numerous apps designed to help travellers save money. UK-specific apps like Vouchercloud or Lastminute.com offer discounts on everything from meals to last-minute hotel bookings. Download a few before your trip, and you may find significant savings on dining, entertainment, and accommodation.  Also, make sure you use these cashback sites when booking travel as you could get a sizeable amount of cash back for your travel bookings - I received £80 cashback for the last holiday we booked!

Final Word:

By applying these simple tips, you can make your travels more affordable without sacrificing quality. With some planning and smart choices, you’ll have unforgettable experiences that won’t break the bank.