12 Budget Travel Hacks You Must Know in 2024

Traveling the world without breaking the bank is not only possible but also incredibly rewarding. In 2024, more travellers are looking for ways to explore new destinations without spending a fortune.

By making smart choices and utilizing a few clever travel hacks, you can significantly reduce your travel expenses. Let’s dive into the top 12 budget travel hacks you must know to get the most out of your travels this year.

FAQs

1. How can I find the best budget flights?

Use flight comparison websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Kayak. Set up price alerts to track fluctuations and book on less popular days like Tuesday or Wednesday.

2. What are the safest budget accommodations?

Airbnb, hostels, and guesthouses are excellent budget options. Read reviews and check ratings before booking to ensure safety and comfort.

3. How do I know when it’s the off-season for travel?

Check for shoulder seasons (before or after peak holidays) for your destination. Resources like Lonely Planet or Skyscanner can help you identify when destinations are less crowded and cheaper.

4. Can I still travel on a budget without sacrificing comfort?

Yes! Choose accommodations with good ratings, use local transportation, and find affordable yet delicious local dining options to maintain comfort while saving money.

5. Is travel insurance worth it for short trips?

Absolutely. Travel insurance can cover cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage, providing peace of mind at a small cost.

1. Flexibility is Key to Finding Affordable Flights

One of the biggest expenses when traveling is the cost of flights. But here’s the secret—flexibility can save you a lot of money. If your travel dates are flexible, you can easily find cheaper flights. Here’s how:

• Best Days to Book: Flights are often cheaper if you book on a Tuesday or Wednesday. These days are typically less popular for business travelers, so airlines drop prices to fill seats.

• Use Flight Comparison Websites: Websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Kayak allow you to compare prices across various airlines and set alerts for price drops. This makes it easier to spot the best deals.

2. Travel During the Off-Season

If you want to save money on travel, avoid going during peak travel seasons like summer or the holidays. Traveling during the off-season can drastically lower your costs. Here’s why:

• Cheaper Flights and Accommodation: During off-peak times, airlines and hotels offer discounts to attract customers.

• Fewer Crowds and More Relaxed Experience: You’ll also enjoy the destinations more without the overwhelming crowds. Imagine having iconic tourist spots almost to yourself!

3. Use Travel Rewards and Points

Credit cards and loyalty programs can help you rack up points that can be redeemed for travel perks. Here’s how you can use them to your advantage:

• Maximize Credit Card Travel Rewards: Many credit cards offer bonus points when you sign up or make purchases in certain categories like dining or travel. These points can be used for flights, hotels, or even upgrades.

• Loyalty Programs: Airlines, hotel chains, and car rental services often have loyalty programs where frequent travelers earn rewards. Signing up for these programs can offer you exclusive discounts and deals.

4. Book Accommodation Wisely

Where you stay can significantly affect your travel budget. Traditional hotels can be expensive, but there are plenty of alternative options to consider:

• Airbnb and Hostels: Platforms like Airbnb offer more affordable and personalized accommodations. Hostels, once thought of as just for backpackers, are now stylish and comfortable, offering great value for money.

• Hotel Comparison Websites: Websites like Booking.com and Trivago allow you to filter for the best deals, read reviews, and compare prices. 

• Couchsurfing and Staying with Locals: Want to save even more on accommodation? Try Couchsurfing, a platform that connects travelers with locals offering free places to stay. It’s not just about saving money; it’s also a great way to meet locals and experience a destination from a local’s perspective.

5. Consider Multi-Destination Flights

Multi-destination flights, also known as open-jaw flights, are a fantastic way to see more places for the price of one ticket. These flights allow you to fly into one city and return from another, saving both time and money while allowing you to explore multiple destinations in one trip.

For example, if you're planning to visit both Italy and Spain, instead of booking two separate one-way tickets, you could book a flight into Rome and a return flight from Barcelona. Not only does this give you more time to explore each city, but it often comes out cheaper than booking two round-trip flights.

6. Take Advantage of Public Transportation

Using public transportation is one of the easiest ways to save money while travelling. Avoid taxis, rideshares, or expensive private transport options and instead use local buses, trains, and metros. Here’s why:

• Affordable and Efficient: Most cities have well-connected and affordable public transport systems that can take you to popular tourist spots without the hefty price tag.

• Save on Rental Cars: You can avoid the costs of renting a car and paying for gas, parking, and insurance.

7. Pack Light to Save on Luggage Fees

Packing light can not only save you time but also save you money. Many budget airlines charge extra for checked luggage, and even some mainstream airlines have stricter baggage policies. Here’s how to pack efficiently:

• Pack Essentials Only: Stick to the essentials to avoid excess baggage. You can easily travel for a week with just a carry-on.

• Avoid Checked Luggage Fees: Some airlines allow you to carry on a bag for free—take advantage of this to avoid the extra cost of checked luggage.

8. Use Free Walking Tours

Free walking tours are one of the best ways to explore a new city while keeping your budget intact. These tours are usually led by local guides who work for tips, offering you an authentic experience without the high price tag of traditional tours.

Here are a few tips to make the most of your free walking tour experience:

• Book in Advance: While many walking tours are free, they can fill up quickly, especially in popular tourist destinations. It's always a good idea to book your spot in advance through platforms like FreeTour or GetYourGuide.

• Tip Generously: Though the tours are technically free, the guide relies on tips for income. A reasonable tip is around $10-20 per person, depending on the length and quality of the tour.

• Look for Theme-Based Tours: Many walking tours focus on specific aspects of the city, such as historical landmarks, street art, food, or local culture. This gives you a unique insight into the destination beyond just the major tourist spots.

• Check Reviews and Ratings: Before booking, check reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor or Google Reviews to ensure the tour is highly rated. This will help you choose a knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide who will make your experience more enjoyable.

Popular Platforms for Free Tours:

• Sandemans New Europe: Offers free walking tours in cities across Europe and beyond, including Paris, Berlin, and Prague.

• Free Tours by Foot: Provides free walking tours in cities like New York, Washington D.C., and Chicago.

• GuruWalk: A global platform for free walking tours with guides in destinations worldwide, from Tokyo to Buenos Aires.

9. Eat Like a Local

Travelling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing food quality. In fact, eating like a local can save you a lot of money while also giving you a more authentic experience.

• Avoid Tourist Traps: Tourist areas tend to have overpriced food. Venture off the beaten path and eat where the locals do for an authentic and affordable meal.

• Street Food: In many destinations, street food is not only cheap but also incredibly tasty. Just make sure to check the cleanliness of the vendor!

10. Leverage Free Activities and Attractions

Many cities offer free or low-cost activities and attractions that can make your trip just as memorable. Here’s how you can find them:

• Free Museums and Parks: Many museums offer free entry on certain days of the week or have free exhibits.

• Festivals and Events: Look out for free local festivals, music performances, or cultural events happening during your stay.

11. Travel Insurance: A Small Investment for Big Savings

While it may seem like an unnecessary expense, travel insurance can actually save you a lot of money in the long run. It’s a small investment that covers you in case of cancellations, lost baggage, or medical emergencies. 

How to Choose the Right Travel Insurance?

• Assess Your Needs: If you’re traveling domestically, you may only need basic coverage for cancellations and baggage issues. For international travel, consider more comprehensive coverage that includes medical emergencies and evacuations.

• Check Reviews: Research customer reviews and experiences to find an insurance provider with good customer service. Choose companies known for reliable claims processing, especially during emergencies.

• Compare Plans: Use websites like Squaremouth or InsureMyTrip to compare different policies and find the best coverage for your trip.

12. Avoid Currency Exchange Fees

Exchange rates and fees can eat away at your travel budget. Here’s how to avoid those costs:

• Use Credit Cards with No Foreign Transaction Fees: Many credit cards waive foreign transaction fees, which can save you money when making purchases abroad.

• Use Local ATMs: When withdrawing cash abroad, use local ATMs to get the best exchange rates and avoid high conversion fees from currency exchange kiosks.

Conclusion

Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing the quality of your trip. By following these 12 simple travel hacks, you can enjoy amazing destinations while keeping your expenses in check.

Whether it’s booking flexible flights, using public transportation, or finding free activities, there are plenty of ways to make your travel experience more affordable in 2024. So, start planning your next adventure—your wallet will thank you!