25 Travel Hacks to Save Money on Every Trip (No Clickbait, Just Real Tips)
Let’s face it — travel isn’t exactly getting cheaper. Between rising airfare, sneaky fees, and overpriced airport snacks, it’s easy to feel like the world’s adventures are reserved for people with deep pockets. But here’s the truth seasoned travellers know: with the right hacks, you can see more of the world while spending a lot less than you think.
We’re not talking about skipping meals or roughing it in dorm rooms (unless that’s your thing). These are real, road-tested travel hacks that actually make a difference — from booking secrets and budget-friendly stays to smarter spending abroad. Whether you’re heading out on a weekend city break or a six-month backpacking adventure, these 25 tips will help you travel further, longer, and smarter.
And no, there’s no fluff here. Just practical advice used by travellers who’ve made the most of every budget flight, hostel kitchen, and local deal. Let’s get into it.
Booking Hacks That Save Big
Whether you're planning six months in Southeast Asia or a spontaneous weekend in Seville, booking smart is the first step to keeping your costs low. These tips will help you lock in better deals on flights, avoid hidden fees, and make the most of every booking.
1. Use flight comparison tools (but know how to use them right)
Tools like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Hopper let you scan hundreds of airlines in seconds — but the real magic is in the filters. Use the cheapest month feature, set fare alerts, and play with nearby airports. Sometimes flying into a neighbouring city and catching a train saves hundreds.
2. Go incognito — seriously
Yes, it’s real. Browsing in incognito/private mode or clearing cookies can stop websites from hiking up prices based on your repeated searches. Especially with flights and hotels, it’s worth checking once logged out or in a different browser.
3. Book at the right time of week
There's debate over the best day to book, but trends show that Tuesdays and Wednesdays often offer cheaper fares. Booking early (but not too early) for popular routes is key — think 1–3 months ahead for domestic, 3–6 months for international.
4. Use points, miles, and cashback tools
If you’re not already using credit card points, frequent flyer schemes, or cashback sites like TopCashback, you’re leaving money on the table. Stack loyalty points with promotions for big savings — and don’t forget to link all your travel accounts (hotels, airlines, etc.).
5. Split-ticketing and hidden city flights
On long-haul or train routes, splitting your journey manually into two or more legs can cost less than buying a direct ticket. Websites like Split My Fare (UK) or Kiwi.com can help. For flights, Skiplagging (booking a longer journey but getting off at the layover city) can work — but beware of checked bags and airline T&Cs.
Accommodation Tricks for Better Deals
Finding a great place to stay doesn’t have to drain your travel budget. With a few strategic choices and a little digging, you can save big — sometimes without sacrificing comfort or location.
6. Compare across platforms
Don’t just book the first deal you find. Prices can vary between Booking.com, Agoda, Hostelworld, and even the accommodation’s own website. Use comparison tools, then double-check by contacting the property directly — some offer lower prices when you book without a middleman.
7. Use map view to spot better value
Instead of searching by ratings alone, switch to map view. Often, going just a few blocks outside the main tourist area can slash prices dramatically. In some cities, moving two metro stops away can mean a nicer place for half the price.
8. Book longer stays for discounts
Many hosts on platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo offer weekly or monthly discounts. Even hotels will occasionally throw in free nights or perks for stays of 3+ nights — always check the fine print or message them directly to ask.
9. Try alternative stays like house-sitting or hostels
Platforms like TrustedHousesitters offer free accommodation in exchange for pet-sitting, while Couchsurfing connects you with locals offering a bed or sofa. For social travellers, modern hostels often have private rooms that cost less than hotels, with added perks like kitchens and free tours.
10. Reach out directly for better rates
Especially for boutique hotels and family-run guesthouses, emailing or calling directly can land you a better price than booking platforms offer. You might also get free breakfast, a room upgrade, or flexible check-in/out just by asking.
Transport Hacks on the Ground
Once you’ve landed, how you move around can make or break your budget. Here’s how to get from A to B without spending more than you need to.
11. Get a local SIM or eSIM
Having data on the go means access to cheap ride-hailing apps, local public transport schedules, and offline maps. Services like Airalo or Holafly offer easy eSIM options, often cheaper than airport SIM stalls. You’ll avoid pricey roaming and navigate more confidently.
12. Use local transport passes
Many cities offer daily or multi-day public transport cards that include unlimited travel — sometimes even museum entry. Research before you go, and consider these over single fares if you’re planning to move around a lot.
13. Rent bikes or scooters for local exploring
In destinations like Bali, Lisbon or Chiang Mai, hiring a scooter or bike can be the cheapest, fastest way to explore. Apps like Bolt or Lime make it easy — just double-check safety rules and road conditions first.
14. Travel overnight to save on accommodation
An overnight train or bus isn’t just transport — it’s your night’s stay. It’s especially cost-effective in countries like Vietnam, India or Argentina. Just pack an eye mask and earplugs, and you’ve saved the cost of a hostel or hotel.
15. Use apps like BlaBlaCar or Rome2Rio
BlaBlaCar offers budget-friendly carpooling in Europe and South America, often cheaper than buses or trains. Meanwhile, Rome2Rio compares all transport options (flights, buses, ferries, and more) — ideal for uncovering the cheapest or most efficient routes.
Food and Drink on a Budget
Eating well on the road doesn’t have to mean overspending or surviving on instant noodles. These hacks help you enjoy the local flavours without blowing your daily budget.
16. Eat where the locals eat
The golden rule: never eat next to a major landmark. Walk a few streets away and look for busy spots with local crowds. Google Maps, TripAdvisor, or TheFork can help, but sometimes it’s as simple as following the queue.
17. Learn the basics of local street food
Street food is often the cheapest and most authentic way to eat. Use apps like Google Translate to decode menus, or look for places where you can see the food being cooked fresh. Bring small change and always check prices in advance to avoid tourist markups.
18. Book stays with kitchens and shop local
Booking hostels or guesthouses with communal kitchens lets you cook a few meals — even basic breakfasts and snacks can save loads. Shop at local markets or small grocery stores for fresh produce, rather than tourist shops or convenience chains.
19. Bring a refillable water bottle
Buying water every day adds up fast. Many airports, train stations, and cities offer refill stations, especially in places like Japan, Scandinavia, or across Europe. A bottle with a built-in filter can also be handy for destinations where tap water isn’t safe to drink.
20. Take advantage of free breakfasts and happy hours
Some hotels and hostels include free breakfast, so choose wisely when comparing prices. Others offer welcome drinks, happy hours, or evening snacks — all of which can double as a free meal if timed right.
Smart Spending and Money Management
A little planning with your finances can save you more than any discount code. These tips help you avoid fees, dodge bad exchange rates, and keep your budget on track.
21. Use a no-fee travel card
Avoid unnecessary charges with cards like Wise, Revolut, or Monzo. They offer mid-market exchange rates, low ATM fees, and the ability to hold multiple currencies. You’ll also be able to freeze your card instantly if anything goes wrong — a huge plus abroad.
22. Always pay in local currency
When using a card abroad, you’ll often be asked: Pay in GBP/EUR or local currency? Always choose local currency — otherwise, you’ll get hit with dynamic currency conversion fees that quietly overcharge you at checkout.
23. Withdraw larger amounts from ATMs
If your card has fixed per-withdrawal fees, it’s more cost-effective to withdraw larger amounts less frequently. Just be sure to use trusted ATMs inside banks or airports, and avoid ones that charge high commissions.
24. Use a budget tracking app
Apps like Trail Wallet, TravelSpend, or even Google Sheets help you stay on top of your spending. It’s easy to get carried away when everything feels like a “small cost”, but tracking expenses keeps you in control — and prevents that end-of-trip panic.
25. Monitor exchange rates before you go
Keep an eye on rates in the weeks leading up to your trip using apps like XE. Sometimes exchanging cash at home can beat airport or tourist rates. If the currency is volatile, consider loading a prepaid card in advance to lock in a good rate.
The truth is, travel doesn’t have to be expensive — it just needs to be intentional. From how you book to how you spend on the ground, these hacks are the difference between running out of money halfway through your trip or stretching your budget to see more, stay longer, and stress less.
Even using just a handful of these tips could save you hundreds over the course of a trip. Combine them all? That’s when things really get interesting.
Got a hack we missed? Drop it in the comments or tag us on Instagram — we’re always keen to hear the tricks other travellers swear by.
Safe travels — and smarter ones.
