Travelling need not be expensive. The biggest savings do not come from giving up pleasures, but from a few good decisions. Here are proven ways of how to travel cheap without taking the joy out of your trip.
Be flexible with dates
Flight and accommodation prices can differ twofold depending on the day of the week and the season. Flying midweek and off-peak is the simplest big saving.
Sleep smart
Staying outside the very centre, a hostel or a flat with a kitchen cut costs sharply. A kitchen lets you make your own breakfast — often the biggest line to trim in the food budget.
Eat like the locals
Street food and local bars are cheaper and usually tastier than tourist restaurants by the main attractions. Walking two blocks from a landmark can halve the bill.
Use public transport
City transport and travel passes are cheaper than taxis, and often faster in traffic. Check local apps and tourist cards that combine transport with attractions.
Plan the budget upfront
Cheap travel starts with a conscious budget — we show how to lay one out in how much a week-long trip costs. And look for cheap flights using our guide on how to find cheap flights.
Frequently asked questions
When are flights cheapest?
Usually off-season and midweek. Flexible dates and price alerts deliver the biggest savings.
Does cheap travel mean giving up comfort?
No. It is about conscious choices — a cheaper stay or local food does not spoil a trip, and often makes it more interesting.