Everything is going up, including the price of travel. But why deprive yourself when you can cut costs by following these tips?
Be flexible about your destination
By not focusing on a single destination, comparing as much as possible and booking well in advance, you can significantly reduce your air travel costs. Google Flights, for example, lets you view all flights departing from an airport and their prices.
Be flexible about your travel dates
Sometimes all you need to do is postpone your trip by a few days to benefit from much lower flight and/or hotel rates. And save several hundred euros on your vacation budget.
Leave in low season
It sounds obvious, but in the end, prices are at their lowest and there's no pressure from the crowds. And to limit the risk of bad weather, opt for the shoulder season.
Select cheaper destinations
The cost of living is not the same everywhere. A trip to certain Nordic countries, fashionable islands (Ibiza or Mykonos) and cities such as London, Singapore or New York will require a higher budget. On the other hand, there are some very nice alternative destinations, notably in Asia, the Mediterranean or Eastern Europe, where accommodation and food are less expensive than here.
Travel light
The ideal: little (or no) checked baggage! Better still, especially for a short stay, make a small additional saving by opting for a single piece of cabin baggage.
Save on transport
Walk whenever possible. It's easier in town, of course. Then opt for shared transport (bike, scooter...). Another tip: public transport is free in more and more cities.
Find low-cost excursions
There's a great trend in city-trip destinations: free walking tours or guided tours with a local. Ideal for getting the inside scoop on local life. Generally fascinating and... free. In some cities, many national museums are free. For others, think of the Sunday open house. And a hike in an exceptional park or natural area is usually free too.
Rediscover the picnic
When you're on a road trip, think picnic. It's the perfect way to save on restaurant meals, but it's also a great way to enjoy a break in the great outdoors, whenever and wherever you want. An ideal formula in Nordic countries or in the vast expanses of North America.
Discounted accommodation
Renting an apartment is often a cheaper solution than a hotel room. Think of the platforms offering accommodation in private homes (where you may share the kitchen and common areas). And if you don't want to do without hotel service, opt for a room with a small, fully-equipped kitchen. You'll save a few restaurants.
Practice slow travel
Is it really necessary to change location every day, to travel great distances? What if we really took the time to rest and enjoy the place where we're staying? It's good for the wallet, but it's also good for the environment.
