We are often asked "how can we save money on this trip?" by first-time (and even experienced) travellers.
Some of these suggestions may not be compatible with the way that you travel, or you simply may not want to try them. They have been thought of by considering both the pros and the cons. Ultimately, it is your choice!
Here are some suggestions (please read our disclaimer):
1. Go All Inclusive
Taking a package or accompanied tour usually includes selected meals, hotels, and ground transportation. This works best for popular destinations with high volumes such as seasonal tours, pilgrimage tours, Beijing, Bangkok, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. It may not work well for Europe, Australia or the USA, where your plans could differ from the tour group.
Pros: guide included, group airfare/hotel discounts, reduced risk of scams, some meals included so costs are known in advance.
Cons: lack of flexibility, restricted airlines/dates, limited meal choices (sometimes not local cuisine), fast pace.
Read more: Free Independent Traveller, Group Independent Traveller, Package Holidaymaker, Packages
2. Book Early
Airfare and hotels are your biggest costs. Book them together and lock in prices early. Where possible, buy refundable tickets. Trains and coaches should also be booked early for better rates.
3. Buy an Open-Jaw Flight Ticket
If travelling to multiple destinations, return from the city where you end your trip instead of backtracking. This saves both time and money.
See: Open-Jaw and Circle Fares
4. Take an Excursion
Rather than having guides every day, book occasional local tours. These can be excellent value compared to long guided tours.
5. Stay More Than One Night
Hotels often offer better deals for multiple-night stays. Business hotels may be cheaper on weekends, while leisure hotels can be cheaper on weekdays.
6. Travel in Even Numbers
Couples or two friends sharing reduces cost per person. Triple rooms are rare, so consider serviced apartments or family rooms for groups.
7. Use Public Transport (Where Possible)
In developed countries, buses, trains and trams are usually the cheapest. Passes such as London’s Oyster Card help. However, taxis can be better when travelling with a family, in bad weather, or when catching a long-distance train.
8. Never Launder at Your Hotel
Laundry is expensive in hotels. Handwash clothes in your sink during a longer stay.
9. Hire a Car
Cars are a liability in large cities but great for countryside exploration and road trips. For groups of four, renting can be cheaper than train passes. Consider parking, fuel, road rules, licences, and driving fatigue.
10. Do a Dummy (Dry) Run
Practice the route to your cruise, coach, or train departure point the day before. This saves time, avoids stress, and ensures you know where to go.
11. Compare Overland vs Airfares
Sometimes budget airlines are faster and cheaper than trains or buses.
12. Tell Us Everything (and Ask Advice)
Book smart and early. Restrictions on tickets can cost you if you don’t ask in advance about refunds, date changes, or side trips.
13. Stay Outside the City (With Caution)
Accommodation outside city centres may save money, but you’ll spend more on transport and time. Only makes sense if your focus isn’t central attractions.
14. Travel Light
Fewer bags = lower costs for taxis and checked baggage fees, especially in the USA.
15. Large Breakfast, Skip Lunch
A hearty breakfast can replace lunch. Try tourist menus in Europe for affordable set meals. Fast food and food courts can also be budget-friendly.
16. Buy from the Supermarket
For basics (water, snacks, groceries), supermarkets are far cheaper than tourist shops.
17. Have Local Currency
For small purchases, carry some cash. You’ll discover authentic local food spots that don’t take cards.
18. Use Your ATM Card
Withdraw local currency from ATMs. Use debit cards to avoid cash advance fees. HSBC Premier/Advance customers enjoy global fee-free withdrawals.
19. Remove Amenities You Don’t Need
Skip prepaid breakfasts if you leave early. Pay only for what you’ll use.
20. Declare Children in Your Booking
Surprising hotels with kids can be costly and break safety regulations. Declaring them upfront can unlock freebies like kids’ buffets.
21. Think Frugal When Souvenir Shopping
Souvenirs are often overpriced junk. Ask yourself: Where will I keep this? and Will anyone really see it? before buying.