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15 Smart Ways to Save Money While Travelling

Practical, tested tips to spend less on flights, hotels, food and activities — without missing out.

Updated October 21, 2026 · 1 min read

Travelling doesn’t have to be expensive. These simple tips can easily save you hundreds on your next trip.

Before you book

  1. Travel off-season. Prices can drop by 30–50% outside school holidays.
  2. Be flexible with dates. Use the whole-month view to find the cheapest days to fly.
  3. Book accommodation early with free cancellation, then check prices again a few weeks before.
  4. Compare neighbourhoods. Staying one metro stop from the centre is often much cheaper.

Accommodation

  1. Choose rooms with a kitchenette for longer stays.
  2. Check breakfast prices — a local café is usually cheaper than the hotel buffet.
  3. Read the latest reviews before booking; cheap is not good value if the location is bad. Compare hotel prices and reviews here.

Food & daily spending

  1. Eat your main meal at lunchtime — many restaurants offer cheaper lunch menus.
  2. Shop at local markets for picnics and snacks.
  3. Carry a reusable water bottle where tap water is safe.
  4. Use a travel-friendly bank card with no foreign transaction fees.

Getting around

  1. Use public transport and daily or weekly passes.
  2. Walk — it is the best way to discover a city.
  3. Book airport transfers in advance instead of taking a taxi on arrival.

Stay connected for less

  1. Skip roaming charges with a local or travel eSIM — it is usually far cheaper than your home plan abroad.

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