Travelling as a couple can be one of the most rewarding experiences. However, it can also be quite expensive if you’re not careful. The good news is, there are plenty of ways to save money and still have an amazing trip. Here are some practical tips to help you stretch your dollars and enjoy your adventures together.
Choose Your Destination Wisely
Start by picking three or four destinations that both of you would love to visit. Then, compare the costs associated with each one.
- Research Online:
Look for package deals that include flights and accommodations. Websites like Expedia, Kayak, and Booking.com often have discounts that can save you a lot of money.
- Compare Pricing:
Once you have a few options, determine which destination offers the best overall pricing. Consider the cost of flights, hotels, food, and attractions.
- Go Direct:
Once I have chose a hotel, I prefer to call the hotel directly. They frequently have a better deal because they do not need to pay either the cost of using the website. I always check flights on the airline site also, because it’s easier to deal direct if you need to make changes at a later date.
Travel During the Off-Season
Travelling during the off-season can save you a significant amount of money. We try to travel on the shoulder seasons as the weather is still reasonable, but lower demand generally equates to lower prices.
- Lower Costs:
Accommodations and attractions are often much cheaper when it’s not the peak tourist season. For instance, airfare to Europe in winter is typically much less expensive than in the summer.
- Fewer Crowds:
Another bonus is that you’ll avoid large crowds, making your trip more enjoyable. For summer destinations, consider travelling right after Labour Day. You’ll still enjoy warm weather, but at a fraction of the cost.
Save Money Before Your Trip
Planning a trip involves saving money in advance. Make it a fun challenge by saving as a couple and individually.
- Joint Savings Plan:
Set a goal for how much you want to save together.
- Individual Plans:
Have a friendly competition to see who can save more. Cut out unnecessary expenses like daily coffees or lunches out, and put that money towards your trip.
Book Hotels with Free Breakfast
One of the easiest ways to save money on food is by booking hotels that offer free breakfast.
Start Your Day Right: A good breakfast can set you up for a day of exploring. Plus, you can grab some extra snacks like granola bars and fruit to keep you going throughout the day.
Share Meals
Restaurants can be expensive, but sharing meals can help keep costs down.
- Split Entrées:
If you both like the same foods, order one entrée and split it. This works especially well in American restaurants where they tend to serve huge portions. This can significantly reduce your dining expenses. Some restaurants may charge a small fee for splitting a plate, but it’s still cheaper than ordering two separate meals. (As an older couple, Joan and I can never eat the full meal in most restaurants, so sharing makes immense sense for us.)
- Order Smart:
Even if you each get a soup or salad, sharing the main dish will make your meal more affordable.
Bring Reusable Water Bottles
Buying bottled water can add up quickly. Instead, bring reusable water bottles and refill them.
- Find a Local Store:
When you arrive, buy a large jug of water from a nearby grocery or drug store. Refill your bottles each night and keep them in your hotel room fridge if available. A four litre jug of water is easy enough to handle, and if you are driving, you can bring it to your next hotel.
- Stay Hydrated:
This simple tip can save you up to $20 or more per day, which is a significant saving over the course of your trip.
More Tips for Savvy Couples
Here are a few more tips to help you travel smart and save money:
- Use Public Transportation:
Instead of taxis or rideshares, use buses, trains, or subways to get around. Many cities offer day passes that are much cheaper than individual tickets.
- Look for Free Attractions:
Many destinations have free attractions like parks, museums, and festivals. Do a little research to find out what’s available.
- Stay in Budget Accommodations:
Consider staying in budget hotels, hostels, or vacation rentals. Sites like Airbnb (not our favourite site after several mishaps), VBRO (we’ve had good experience with them so far) and Hostelworld (no experience with them) offer great options at lower prices.
- Cook Some Meals:
If your accommodation has a kitchen, take advantage of it. Cooking a few meals can save you a lot of money compared to eating out all the time.
- Use Travel Rewards:
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, use those points to book flights or hotels. This can significantly reduce your travel costs.
Final Thoughts
Travelling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to miss out on fun and adventure. With a bit of planning and some smart choices, you can enjoy amazing trips without breaking the bank. By choosing your destination wisely, travelling during the off-season, saving money before your trip, booking hotels with free breakfasts, sharing meals, and bringing reusable water bottles, you’ll be well on your way to a budget-friendly vacation.
Remember, the key is to enjoy each other’s company and make memories together, no matter where you go or how much you spend. Happy travels!
By implementing these budget-friendly travel tips, you and your partner can have many wonderful vacations ahead. I know that Joan and I have! Keep these strategies in mind and start planning your next adventure today. Safe travels!
You might want to peruse this short article Travel Now Before It’s Too Late to see our experience.
Leave a comment below telling about your budget travel experiences.
