Traveling can be one of life’s greatest joys, but it often comes with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, with a few clever strategies, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy more adventures without breaking the bank. Here are 20 of the best travel hacks to save money, designed to help you maximize your experience while minimizing costs. 

First, consider traveling during the off-season. Popular destinations often have lower prices for flights, accommodations, and activities when tourist crowds thin out. For example, visiting Europe in late fall or early spring can yield significant savings compared to peak summer months. Next, flexibility with your travel dates is key. Use fare comparison websites to find the cheapest days to fly, as shifting your departure or return by just a day or two can cut costs dramatically. Booking flights midweek, like on a Tuesday or Wednesday, often results in lower fares than weekend travel. Similarly, opting for red-eye flights or those with layovers can save you money, even if they’re less convenient.

When it comes to accommodations, think beyond traditional hotels. Platforms offering vacation rentals or home-sharing options often provide more space and amenities—like kitchens—for less than a hotel room. Cooking your own meals instead of dining out every day can slash your food budget significantly. If you prefer hostels, look for ones with free breakfast or communal kitchens to keep expenses down. Another trick is to book accommodations slightly outside the city center—public transport is usually affordable and reliable, and you’ll save on the premium of staying in the heart of the action.

Packing smart is another money-saver. Avoid checked baggage fees by sticking to a carry-on, and pack versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched. Bringing a reusable water bottle and snacks can help you bypass overpriced airport and tourist-area purchases. For longer trips, consider doing laundry at a local laundromat instead of paying hotel service fees or packing extra clothes. Speaking of airports, don’t fall for inflated prices at terminal shops—eat before you arrive or pack your own food to avoid the markup.

Transportation at your destination offers more opportunities to save. Instead of renting a car, explore public transit options like buses, trains, or metro systems, which are often cheaper and let you experience a place like a local. Many cities offer multi-day transit passes that are more economical than single tickets. Walking or biking is even better—free, healthy, and a great way to stumble upon hidden gems. If you must rent a vehicle, book well in advance and compare rates across multiple sites to snag the best deal.

Loyalty programs and credit card points are underutilized gold mines. Sign up for airline and hotel rewards programs, even if you don’t travel often—points add up over time. Use a travel-friendly credit card that earns miles or cashback on purchases, then redeem those rewards for flights or upgrades. Another hack is to avoid currency exchange traps. Skip airport kiosks with terrible rates and use ATMs at your destination instead, withdrawing local currency with a card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.

For activities, seek out free or low-cost options. Many museums have discounted or free admission days, and cities often host festivals or outdoor events at no charge. Researching in advance can uncover these deals. Booking tours or experiences directly with local operators rather than through big travel agencies can also cut out middleman fees. Lastly, negotiate where it’s culturally appropriate—markets and small vendors may lower prices if you ask politely.

By weaving these hacks into your travel plans—traveling off-peak, staying flexible, packing light, leveraging local transport, and tapping into rewards—you can explore the world without draining your wallet. Smart planning and a little creativity go a long way toward making every trip both memorable and affordable.