Best Travel Hacks to Save Money on Affordable Travel Packages

Here are 20 of the best travel hacks I’ve gathered after 15 years of traveling the world. Use these tips and tricks to save money on your next trip and find affordable travel packages!

1. Book In The Afternoon

Though flight prices are known to fluctuate during the week, not many people are aware that they also change during the day. To save money on flights, consider booking in the afternoon. Prices tend to be higher in the morning when business travelers book most of their flights.

2. Check Prices On The Less Popular Booking Sites

When searching for affordable travel packages, don’t just rely on the major online travel booking agencies (OTAs). Explore the less popular booking sites as they often offer bigger discounts compared to the major OTAs. Some of our favorite sites to check prices include Going, Vayama, and CheapOAir.

Tip: Always read the change and cancellation fees carefully before you book.

3. Set Up Flight Alerts

One of the best travel hacks to save money on flights is to set up flight alerts. Sign up for flight alerts with AirfareWatchDog or Scott’s Cheap Flights. These services will notify you via email whenever there’s a drop in price from your chosen departure location.

4. Choose Affordable Accommodation

Hotels can be one of the most expensive aspects of a trip. Consider alternatives like hostels, both backpacker and luxury, which often provide the same quality of service as hotels at a lower cost. Use booking.com to find the best prices on hostels and hotels for affordable travel packages.

5. Earn Money While Traveling

There are many opportunities to make money while traveling. Consider teaching English to children or adults, or freelancing on platforms like Upwork. These options allow you to earn money while exploring the world.

6. Become A House-Sitter

House-sitting is a great way to get free accommodation while traveling. Trusted Housesitters is the best website to connect with homeowners looking for people to house-sit and care for their pets while they are away. It offers a wide selection of houses all over the world.

7. Roaming Charges

Avoid hefty roaming charges by switching out your SIM card for a local one or purchasing an international package with your current carrier. If you’re based in the United States, consider T-Mobile, which includes free international data on their basic plans.

8. Shop Like A Local

Save money on everyday items like fruit and coffee by shopping at local markets instead of supermarkets. In places like Asia and South America, local markets offer everything you need at a reduced cost.

9. Make Use Of Your Carry-On Luggage

Maximize the use of your carry-on luggage to avoid extra fees at the airport. Virtually every airline allows one free bag of hand-luggage, so pack as much as possible within the dimensions restrictions. Consider traveling with a carry-on only to save even more money.

10. Don’t Change Currency At The Airport

Exchange currency at your bank instead of the airport. Banks often offer better exchange rates compared to airport currency exchange services. Take the time to exchange currency before your departure to save a significant amount.

11. Don’t Pay For WiFi, Find It For Free

Avoid paying for WiFi by finding free options in bars and restaurants. Many establishments offer complimentary WiFi, especially in areas with high foot traffic. Take advantage of these free WiFi zones while traveling.

12. Use An 8-Week Rule For Flights

Studies have shown that booking flights approximately 8 weeks in advance is the optimal time to get the best deals. Booking too late may result in higher prices, while booking too early may lead to changes in plans due to unforeseen circumstances.

13. Learn The Art Of Haggling

In many countries, haggling is a common practice when it comes to accommodation and shopping in markets and shops. Negotiate rates with hotels to potentially get lower prices, and don’t be afraid to haggle with street vendors to reach a reasonable agreement.

14. Get Multi-Day Passes

If you’re staying in the same city or country for an extended period, consider getting an all-inclusive, multi-day pass. These passes allow unlimited use of public transportation, helping you save money on transportation costs.

15. Use Public Transport, Not Taxis

Save money on transportation by opting for public transport instead of taxis. While taxis or Uber may be convenient for airport transfers or when carrying heavy luggage, using public transport for your daily commute can significantly reduce transportation expenses.

16. Make The Most Of Lunchtime Menus

Enjoying lunchtime menus at local restaurants can save you a significant amount of money compared to dining out for dinner. Many reputable restaurants offer world-class food during the day at a fraction of their dinner prices.

17. Rent An Apartment

Consider renting an apartment instead of staying in a hotel, especially for longer stays. Websites like Airbnb make it easy to find affordable apartments that often cost less than an extended hotel stay. Renting an apartment provides the luxury of your own space and privacy.

18. Cook At Home

Take advantage of cooking facilities in hostels or rented apartments to prepare your own meals. This simple act can save you a lot of money compared to dining out for every meal. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to try delicious local food while saving on food expenses.

19. Find Free Things To Do

Cities often offer a plethora of free activities to attract visitors. From free walking tours to complimentary tastings at farmers markets, there’s something for everyone. Simply search online for “free activities + your location” to discover the free attractions and events available in your destination.

20. Use Downloadable And Digital Guides

Download city guides to your destination of choice to access the latest information on great deals, free activities, budget-friendly places to eat, and sights to see. These guides will be a valuable resource while you’re on the road, helping you save money and make the most of your trip.

Remember, by implementing these travel hacks, you can save money and find affordable travel packages, allowing you to explore the world without breaking the bank. Happy travels!

*Note: The article has been rewritten and optimized for SEO purposes, with the focus keyword phrase ‘affordable travel packages’ used throughout the content in bold.