5 Tips for Traveling on a Budget

Although it is a snowy mess outside and the temperatures are freezing, spring and summer will be here before we know it, and it is time to start planning the things you want to see this year and the places you want to go. Here are a few things that could help make your trip cost effective:

1. Plan Ahead!

• Depending on where you're traveling how early you start planning will vary on where you're going and how long you're planning to be there. Although spontaneous trips are fun and exciting, they end up costing more than you would expect. By planning early you can get your flights cheaper, decide if flying is the best option, find cheaper hotels, find cheap and fun activities to do ahead of time, etc. 

2. To Fly or Not to Fly

• Although flying to your destination may seem necessary for a true vacation experience, it can be pricey. If you're staying in the United States, road trip it! If you're going to a destination that requires you to fly overseas, etc then you don't have much of a choice. So if you absolutely have to fly get your tickets about seven weeks in advance for the cheapest price.

3. Roadtripping!!

• Road tripping can be a lot of fun and can create memories (with your other cost-effective friends) as well. Many people argue that the price of gas/hotels will add up to be the same as a flight, which depending on where you're going could be true, but if you're traveling with other people splitting the price can be a major money saver. Not to mention, when you road trip you drive through and visit states you may have never even thought of visiting!

4. Eat Cheap

• Choosing to eat cheap on a vacation could help your bank account out a lot. This doesn't mean you can't have one or two nice meals during your trip but definitely be conscious about the places you are choosing to eat at. Another tip would be to stay at a hotel that serves free breakfast because that will cut down on one meal that you have to worry about. For lunch, just snack around or eat something small to hold you over until dinner rather than eating a full meal. Doing both of these things will save you a lot of money and will allow you a little more spending money for a nicer dinner or other activities you may do throughout the day.

5. Don't be Such a Tourist!

• When you're planning your trip, especially in a tourist-heavy area, there will be a bunch of convenient and basic places that everyone goes to. These places are typically overpriced, and will basically charge you for just breathing their air. Finding places to go that aren't tourist driven will save you a lot of money. Many places have free museums, cheaper less-known places or small events happening throughout the city that would be just as much fun as the tourist traps!

I hope you have safe travels!