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The 18 Cheapest Places to Travel in 2022

Plan an exciting vacation without spending an arm and a leg.

Looking to catch a cheap flight this year? Kayak , one of the world's leading travel search engines, shared with Travel + Leisure a list of the cheapest places to travel this year.

To determine the most wallet-friendly destinations, Kayak analyzed the searches for flights from Nov. 20, 2020, through Nov. 19, 2021, for travel between Jan. 1, 2022, and June 30, 2022. Kayak then considered the top 100 most-clicked destinations with the lowest average flight price, excluding outliers based on criteria such as travel restrictions and security concerns.

Fly against the grain and get rewarded with major savings.

Unsurprisingly, Mexico makes the list of the cheapest places to travel in 2022. The country has long ranked as an affordable and easy-to-reach destination for many Americans; reasonably priced direct flights are abundant.

Within Mexico, San José del Cabo (in Baja California Sur), Puerto Vallarta, and Cancún come out on top as the cheapest places to fly, with January being the most affordable month to visit for each. Fortunately, January is nothing short of glorious in each of these beachy destinations — warm, balmy, and filled with rich colors, textures, and flavors to beat the winter blues.

Searching for a city break instead of a beach retreat? Mexico City, with its rich Aztec heritage and generous smattering of museums, is another affordable option in Mexico. May is the cheapest month to book a flight there.

Chicago, Illinois

Who wants to visit Chicago in winter? You will, once you see the rock-bottom prices you can score in January and all there is to do in this Midwest winter wonderland. Spend an afternoon on the Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon, then warm up with a slice of deep-dish pizza.

Colombia is a beloved travel destination for its rich history, vibrant culture, and mouthwatering food. It's also well priced against what many Americans are used to paying for, say, a fresh arepa and cup of Colombian coffee.

February is the least expensive month to fly to the country's capital, Bogotá. The weather here is chilly, but not too cold to stroll the painstakingly maintained Bogotá Botanical Garden, which dates back to 1955 and is filled with almost 20,000 plants (and costs just over $1 USD to enter).

In January, head to Cartagena, a port city on the country's Caribbean coast. You don't have to spend much to enjoy your time here — simply walking the picturesque streets is enough for most visitors.

Nashville, Tennessee

There's a reason bachelorette parties and reunions of every sort flock in droves to the Music City — it's not hard to have a boot-scootin' time on a budget. Mural-hopping is free, hot chicken will only set you back a few bucks, and there's lots of live music to be heard (free of cover charge) along Honky Tonk Highway . January is the cheapest month to book.

New York City, New York

New York City isn't known for being a cheap destination, but go in January and you'll get the best prices they've got. The city never sleeps, but it does slow down during the cold winter months — the perfect time for you to swoop in and take advantage of the decreased demand for flights and hotel rooms. Plus, there are plenty of free things to do in New York City , too.

Mexico isn't our only neighboring country with deals aplenty — Canada also makes for an easy getaway, with well-priced flights widely available from most of the U.S.

In Montréal, Quebec, the must-try food is the steamé — the city's take on a hot dog — served steamed in a side-loading bun (which is also steamed). It's the perfect food to gobble up during freezing February, when the flights are cheapest. Best of all, each delicious (and filling) hot dog will only set you back a couple of dollars.

February is also the cheapest month to fly to Toronto, Ontario. The weather may make you leery, but don't let it: During February, the annual installation of art and lights, known as the Toronto Light Festival (totally free), takes place in the walkable and historic Distillery District. It's also a good time for The Bentway Skate Trail under the Gardiner Expressway overpass, which will set you back only $5.

And while Vancouver, British Columbia, is gorgeous in the summertime, January is the cheapest month to fly there. Take the ferry for an affordable "tour" of the city from the water.

Atlanta, Georgia

Jackson Vance/Travel + Leisure

Atlanta has all the big-city perks at prices far more wallet-friendly than most of its counterparts. Splurge on a SkyView Ferris wheel ride for views of Centennial Olympic Park and beyond, and go in January for the lowest possible prices. There are lots of things to do in Atlanta during this time of year, from visiting the marine animals at the Georgia Aquarium to learning about local history at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.

Baltimore, Maryland

Head to Charm City this year to keep costs low and still have a memorable travel experience. Chilly January may be the cheapest month to visit, but luckily, you can still check out places like the Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens ($5 donation encouraged) in the urban oasis of Druid Hill Park.

San José, Costa Rica

The capital and largest city of Costa Rica, San José is a must-visit for any intrepid traveler. Expect Victorian mansions, nightlife in El Pueblo, lots of culture, and surrounding historic coffee plantations.

Check out the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum for a glimpse into what it might look like to have an unlimited jewelry budget. Admission is $15 for non-residents, but offers access to more than 1,500 gold objects and artifacts. Head to San José in May for the cheapest airfare to this lively (and affordable) city.

Dallas, Texas

This year, visit Dallas outside of Cowboys football season — like in January, when prices are at their lowest. During this time, you can expect more reasonable rates, but still get in on the sports action by catching a home game for the Mavericks (basketball) or the Stars (hockey).

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas can be as cheap or expensive as you want it to be, but if you prefer to devote the majority of your dollars to slots and shows rather than airfare and accommodations, go in January. Just don't expect hot temps, as even the desert gets cold in the winter. Here are some more tips to keep in mind and mistakes to avoid on your next trip to Sin City.

Panama City, Panama

Panama City, the capital of Panama, is an impressively modern Central American destination framed by the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Panama Canal on another — best viewable from the Miraflores Locks. Visit in January for great flight deals, and don't miss the cobblestone streets of historic Casco Viejo.

Tampa, Florida

Florida as a destination is hotter than ever, but Tampa isn't as inundated with crowds as the state's other major cities — plus, its location on the western coast promises gorgeous sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico. Go in January for a good deal, warm (but not sweltering) temps, and plenty of sunshine.

Hamilton, Bermuda

If January's chill has you dreaming of pink-sand beaches, you're in luck, as it's a great month to visit Bermuda. Fly into Hamilton and stroll Front Street for a peek at the pastel buildings that are iconic to this glitzy British island territory, but stick to window-shopping if you want to keep your trip cheap. Biking and beach-hopping are the name of the game here.

Boston, Massachusetts

January may be the cheapest month to fly to Boston, but it's not the best season for strolling its idyllic Common or touring the Freedom Trail. Luckily, many stops along the historic route are indoors — and cheap (like the Paul Revere House, which is just $6 per adult).

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is another popular destination for American travelers. January is the least expensive month to visit the two most affordable cities to fly into: Santo Domingo and Punta Cana.

Though Santo Domingo is the country's capital, it doesn't have to be an expensive visit. Take in the architecture that dates back to the late 1400s and stroll the Colonial Zone for a memorable (and free) experience.

Punta Cana, on the other hand, is known as a tourist hot spot with plenty of resorts (and ways to spend lots of money). However, some of life's greatest treasures — like sandy beaches and waterfall hikes — are as free in Punta Cana as they are anywhere else.

St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

You don't need a passport to fly to St. Thomas, but you'll have a hard time believing this jaw-dropping, colorful island is technically U.S. soil. Make sure to visit Magens Bay, climb the 99 Steps in Charlotte Amalie, and marvel at the sheer blueness of the water surrounding this popular cruise ship port. Go in January for the best flight prices; you'll be glad for the savings when you see what accommodations cost on this luxurious island.

Denver, Colorado

Denver has a ton to do, even in January, which is the cheapest month to visit. Hitting the slopes is hard to do at a discount (unless you go in the summer to hike instead of ski), but at least you'll save money on airfare if you visit Denver during this snowy month.

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

How to Travel Cheap: 16 Ways to Travel for Cheap or Free

Whenever I ask readers what the number one thing holding them back from traveling is, I almost always get the same answer: Money.

This is something I hear from everyone I talk to: “Matt, I simply don’t have enough money to travel.”

This problem — and how to overcome it — is my most asked question. Over the past 14 years , I have answered this question in a plethora of posts, emails, tweets, and Facebook posts. Long-term readers might even be getting sick of me discussing this subject because it is one I talk about so much. 

But I know no matter how often I address this question, it will come up again.

Since this question comes up so often, I like to constantly remind people of this fact: You do not need to be rich to travel.

Let’s repeat that: You do not need to be rich to travel.

There are plenty of ways to travel on a budget (and for free) — you just need to be willing to get creative.

Traveling the world with no little or no money sounds like an impossible dream. But it is possible. It’s not glamorous, but it’s possible.

It should be said that there are some expenses you shouldn’t compromise on (like travel insurance ) but there are tons of ways you can travel the world on a budget — including plenty of ways you can actually travel for free.

In this post, I’m going to show you two things:

• How to travel cheap
• How to travel for free

Learning how to travel cheap is all about taking advantage of helpful apps and websites that save you money, finding ways to lower your expenses, and even making money as you travel. It’s about finding value and lowering your expenses while still being able to afford to do what you want.

Learning how to travel for free entails taking advantage of free accommodation, transportation, and activities that are already out there, thereby reducing your cost to zero. You can also use points and miles to earn free flights and accommodation . Here, you sacrifice comfort and convenience to extend your travels as long as possible.

With the right budget and the right mindset, you can make your travel dreams a reality. Even if you don’t earn a lot or you have debt, there are still plenty of ways to go overseas (I still had debt when I went on my first trip around the world). They may not be fancy or luxurious, but if travel is your priority then you can definitely make it happen!

Ready to kick-start your budget travels and save money? Just click on either of the links below to jump directly to that section!

Table of Contents

1. Get a Job Overseas

2. teach english overseas, 3. do wwoofing and work on a farm, 4. use the sharing economy, 5. cook your own meals, 6. get rail passes, 7. sleep in large dorms, 8. use student and other discount cards, 9. get city tourist cards, 10. capitalize on your skills, 11. get free flights, 12. stay for free, 13. hitchhike, 14. take free walking tours, 15. house sitting & pet sitting, 16. use your social network.

Not making enough money at your job? Or, even worse, are you working a job you hate? Why not get a job overseas? There are plenty of opportunities in the world as long as you aren’t picky. After all, this isn’t a career you are starting — it’s just a way to earn money for travel.

Here are some popular (and easy to find) jobs you can get when you travel:

• Au pair – An au pair is a live-in caregiver who helps a host family by looking after their children and doing some basic housekeeping. In exchange, you get free room and board and a small salary. This is a great route if you’re looking to learn a new language or immerse yourself in a new culture. You can read this post for more info on being an au pair .
• Bartender – It’s always 5 o’clock somewhere, so if you have the skills then this is an easy job to move overseas. It’s also an easy job to get under the table if you decide to go that route. If you don’t have the skills to tend bar, consider being a dishwasher or busser.
• Hostel worker – Hostel workers rarely stick around for long, which means there is always a demand for new help. It’s a great way to meet other travelers while adjusting to a new location. You can usually also start off as a volunteer (in exchange for a free room) to avoid visa complications. Three websites that can help you find hostels to volunteer at are Worldpackers , Workaway , and HelpX .
• Waitress/waiter – There are tons of seasonal restaurants around the world (and around the US) that need extra help during the busy tourist months. If you have experience, this is an easy job to find abroad.
• Dive instructor – If you have your certification , this is an easy job to travel with as dive instructors are needed everywhere. Best of all, these jobs are usually in picturesque tropical locations !
• Tour guide – If you’ve got a knack for history and don’t mind speaking in front of groups, this is the perfect job for you. It’s also usually a cash job, which means you get your tips directly.
• Cruise ship worker – This is a much more formal position than the ones above, but it’s a great way to travel. The hours are long, but there’s something to be said about living at sea!
• Casino worker – While this might require some training, if you’re a night owl and don’t mind the casino scene this is a fun job to work abroad.
• Seasonal worker at ski resorts – Instructors, restaurant staff, hotel staff, lifeguards — ski resorts need all sorts of staff to keep things moving, making this a goldmine for the overseas traveler (as long as you don’t mind the snow!).
• Yacht worker – While the hours can be long, you can make great money working for the rich and famous on their yachts. Best of all, you’re usually in some pretty amazing destinations!
• Yoga instructor – If you have the skills (and certification), teaching yoga abroad is an easy way to make some spending money. While you might need to know the language, there are yoga studios in pretty much every city in the world.

Working overseas often gets discounted as an option because it seems hard to do. It’s not. Just be open. These jobs don’t require advanced degrees or a lot of work experience either.

Are you going to get a high-paying office job? No.

Will you get a shitty, low-wage job that will pay all your travel bills? Yep!

I’ve met people from all walks of life, both from Western and non-Western countries, funding their travels this way. It’s an easy, fun way to lengthen your travels, deepen your experience, and make a little money so you can keep on traveling.

READ MORE ABOUT WORKING OVERSEAS: 15 Ways to Find a Job and Work Overseas  

All you need is the ability to speak English fluently and a TEFL degree , depending on the country you work in. The world is yearning for teachers, and this is a job in high demand; many companies in Asia will even pay for your flight over as well as cover your rent while you’re there.

If you have a college or university degree you’ll be able to make more money and apply for better positions though it’s not necessary for many countries.

Additionally, there are many websites and services out there that allow you to teach virtually. As long as you have a great Wi-Fi connection, you can help people learn English from anywhere in the world!

Some places you can teach online are:

READ MORE ABOUT TEACHING OVERSEAS:

• The Best TEFL Courses for Teaching English Abroad
• The 9 Best Places to Teach English Overseas
• How Oneika Gets Teaching Jobs Around the World
• Can You Teach English Abroad Without a TEFL?

WWOOF stands for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms . It’s a platform that allows you to work on a farm in exchange for free room and board. It’s a great way to see a destination in-depth while allowing you to commune with the great outdoors. You have to pay to get to the farm, but once you are there, everything else is covered! It definitely will help you travel cheap as well as have a unique experience and meet lots of cool people.

WWOOF has opportunities available in 130 countries around the world, with over 12,000 hosts and 100,000 WWOOFers. Some of the most popular destinations for WWOOFers are Portugal, France, Italy, Costa Rica, Australia, New Zealand, and Hawaii.

READ MORE ABOUT VOLUNTEERING :

• How to Travel and Work Around the World with WWOOF
• How to Ethically Volunteer Anywhere in the World

These websites have changed the travel game and made travel more accessible for everyone.

Here are some of my favorite websites:

• BlaBlaCar – A ride-sharing app that connects you with drivers who have extra seats in their car (primarily for medium and long distances, and mainly in Europe).
• EatWith – Platform that connects you with local cooks serving private meals.
• RVShare – Lets you rent RVs and camper vans directly from locals.
• Turo – A car sharing marketplace that lets you rent vehicles from locals.
• Campspace – This platform lets you camp on private property. Properties range from basic tent plots to luxurious glamping and RV stays.
• Trusted Housesitters – Connects you with locals with whom you exchange pet and house sitting services for free accommodation.

READ MORE ABOUT THE SHARING ECONOMY:

• How to Use the Sharing Economy to Travel on a Budget
• How to Find the perfect Apartment on Sites Like Airbnb

The best way to save money on the road is to cook all your own meals. While in Stockholm , I spent $60 USD for a week’s worth of groceries instead of an average of $15 USD per meal eating out! That’s a savings of $150 USD!

I’ve done the same thing in dozens of countries all around the world — especially in expensive destinations like Iceland where eating out can really destroy your budget.

If you are staying in hostels , book accommodation that has a kitchen so you have space to cook. If you’re Couchsurfing or using Airbnb,your host will probably have a kitchen.

No kitchen? Pack your own container and cutlery and make some sandwiches and salads on the go. Not every meal requires a stove, right?

Just because you are traveling doesn’t mean you need to eat out every meal. You won’t ruin your trip to Paris if you decide not to eat out one day! There’s simply no reason to be spending lots of money on food on your trip!

READ MORE ABOUT SAVING MONEY ON FOOD WHEN YOU TRAVEL:

• How to Eat Cheap Around the World
• How to Eat Around the World on a Vegan Diet

If you are booking individual trips, booking ahead of time can usually save you about 50% of the cost of a train ticket. However, that fixes you to a set timeline. If you don’t want to be tied into a fixed schedule, rail passes can save you a lot of money while giving you the flexibility you need. I’ve saved hundreds of dollars in Europe doing this!

READ MORE ABOUT RAIL PASSES:

• Is The Eurail Pass Right For You?
• A Complete Guide To The Eurail Global Pass
• The Ultimate Guide To Saving Money With Eurail Passes
• A Complete Guide to the Japan Rail Pass

Large hostel dorm rooms are the cheapest paid accommodation out there. If Couchsurfing isn’t your thing, this is your next best way to save money on a place to sleep. The bigger the dorm, the cheaper it will be. While a 4-6 bed dorm might give you more privacy, a 12-18 bed dorm is going to be a bit cheaper. In the long run, this will add up. As long as you’ve got earplugs and a sleeping mask, opt for the bigger dorm to keep your budget intact!

If you’re a light sleeper, make sure you read the reviews before you book to ensure you don’t choose a party hostel. In larger cities, you can usually find a hostel that is quieter than the others. It might not be as social or as centrally located, but you’ll at least be able to get a good sleep.

In a large dorm, you’re almost guaranteed to have some snorers. If earplugs don’t quite do the trick, download an app like Rain Rain , which plays rain sounds on a loop. You can set a timer so they stop playing after an hour or two, helping you ignore the noises of the dorm while you try to fall asleep. Spotify also has all kinds of rain and whitenoise playlists too.

For discounts on hostels in Europe, check out HostelPass . This card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and am glad it finally exists! (Use code NOMADICMATT for 25% off your membership.)

READ MORE ABOUT HOSTELS:

• Why I Still Stay in Hostels When I Travel
• 11 Expert Tips on Picking a Good Hostel
• 6 Ways to Avoid a Bad Hostel
• My Favorite Hostels Around the World

Are you a student, teacher, or under 26? Welcome to the world of 50%-off attractions and a plethora of discounts! Get a student/teacher/youth card and save big while you’re abroad. Even if you’ve recently graduated, chances are you can still get by with your expired ID card (as long as it doesn’t have an expiry date). Always ask if there are discounts available for students or youth as this is an easy way to save tons of cash as you travel around!

Museums, galleries, and other major tourist attractions usually have discounts (especially in Europe ). It never hurts to ask! (There are also often discounts for senior travelers and veterans as well, so always ask!)  

If you plan on seeing a lot of sights in a city, you should get a city tourism card. These will offer you discounted and/or free access to the major attractions and museums, as well as free public transportation. I saved over $100 USD with the London pass, $80 USD with the Paris Museum card, $50 USD with a Helsinki card, and tons more with other city tourism cards.

They are an amazing way to save money on attractions that not enough people use. Just head to the local tourism office to find out what cards are available. They can help answer all your questions and make sure you save as much money as possible. Not every city has them, but most major destinations do and you’ll save a lot of money if you plan on seeing the major sights.  

Need some cash? Use Craigslist (operates in 70 countries), TaskRabbit (mainly in the US and Canada, though also in Italy and Spain), or Gumtree (UK-based) to find paid odd jobs, like assisting people who need a few things done around the house. It’s a way to make money when you travel without committing to a long-term job.

Additionally, if you have a skill, sell it. Offer haircuts to other travelers, busk for money, provide online services like editing, graphic design, or consulting. It’s never been easier to work online. As long as you have Wi-Fi you can make money. The sky is the limit here — get creative!  

These days, there are tons of ways to earn free flights. Simply sign up for a few travel credit cards , collect miles, and then fly for free.

Most cards offer sign-up bonuses of 50,000 points (or more) — which is often enough for a free round-trip flight right there. And if you sign up for both an airline card (e.g., a United credit card) and a general rewards card like the Chase Sapphire, you can combine the two point balances and get a cheap flight faster.

You can go a lot further in the world when you take away the cost of flights and some accommodation. By collecting points and miles through credit card bonuses, smart everyday spending, online surveys, bonuses, and other methods, you’ll accrue a ton of miles even before you’ve left for your trip. There’s even a card now — the Bilt rewards card – that lets you earn points on your rent!

Collecting points and miles isn’t only for Americans either (though US residents have the best options). Canadians can collect points too, as can folks from Australia and New Zealand and the UK .

Europeans also have several options as well, including all kinds of airline cards such as Norwegian Air, SAS, Aer Lingus, Lufthansa, and more.

READ MORE ABOUT POINTS & MILES:

• Points & Miles 101: A Beginner’s Guide
• The Ultimate Guide to Points & Miles
• How I Earn 1 Million Frequent Flier Miles Each Year
• The Best Travel Credit Cards

There are many services that connect travelers with locals who are willing to let them stay with them for free. Using these sites, you will never have to pay for accommodation. Years ago I read about a guy who traveled for years while only Couchsurfing.

I’ve used this service dozens of times over the years and always meet amazing people. Sometimes you get a room, sometimes a couch, sometimes an air mattress, but it’s always free.

Ideally, you’ll want to repay your host’s kindness by cooking them a meal, bringing them a souvenir from home, or taking them out for a drink. But that will still be much cheaper than paying for accommodation!

There are also local Couchsurfing group meet-ups that can help you make friends in your new city. You can even use the app just to meet people without having to stay with them. It’s a great way to connect with local insiders — whether you want a free place to stay or not.

Moreover, because of the rise of the sharing economy in the last few years, there are now websites that let you not only stay with locals but share rides, meals, train tickets, gear, and much more! These websites not only save you a TON of money but also get you off the tourist track and into the local life. Win-win! Here is a list of websites to use for free accommodation:

• Couchsurfing
• Warmshowers

READ MORE ABOUT FINDING CHEAP OR FREE ACCCOMMODATION:

• How to Find Cheap Accommodation
• How to Start House Sitting and Never Pay for Accommodation
• How to Crush it on Couchsurfing

I’ve hitchhiked in more than a handful of countries (and I know solo female travelers who have done the same!). Sure, it has a bad reputation in North America, but with some common sense and a bit of patience, you can hitchhike almost anywhere — saving you tons of money in the process!

Here are a few basic tips to help you get started:

• Use a sign – Make a clear sign that lets people know where you’re heading. That will help drivers decide if they can help.
• Look presentable – Wear clean clothing, smile, and don’t obscure your face with something like sunglasses. People want to see who they are picking up.
• Check the laws – Hitchhiking is illegal in some places. Always check the laws to make sure it’s ok to do where you are.
• Take precautions – Note the license plate of anyone who picks you up and text it to a friend. Chances are you won’t need it but it’s better to be safe than sorry!
• Keep your valuables on you – Don’t leave any valuables in your bag if it goes in the trunk in case it gets left in the car (or stolen).
• Consult Hitchwiki – Hitchwiki is the #1 hitchhiking resource there is. Always consult it before you hitchhike to pick up tips and ensure you’re hitchhiking in a safe place.

READ MORE ABOUT HITCHHIKING:

• 14 Ways to Safely Hitchhike Across the United States
• What I Learned Hitchhiking Around China
• A Lesson in Kindness While Hitchhiking through Iceland

Want to learn about the city, get your bearings, and see the major sights? Take a free walking tour. You can find them in most major cities — just ask the local tourist office, your hostel staff, or Google “free walking tour (city name).”

You’ll get a solid introduction to the city while also getting access to a local guide you can ask questions to. I always start my visits to a new city with one. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end (that’s how they get paid).

READ MORE ABOUT TAKING FREE WALKING TOURS:

• The Best Walking Tours of NYC
• The Best Walking Tour Companies in London
• 8 Ways to Choose the Perfect Tour Company
• The Best Walking Tours in Paris
• The Best Walking Tours in Amsterdam
• A Self-Guided Tour of Colonial New York

You can sign up for one of the sites below to start house sitting, allowing you to stay in one destination for a while without having to pay for accommodation. Everyone’s account is verified and has reviews so you know you won’t get cheated.

This is a great way to travel long-term, with an important added bonus: you get a kitchen to cook your food (which saves you even more money!).

You will also often get access to a vehicle and sometimes will be left a tip or free groceries. It’s generally people who are well enough off that they can afford multi-month vacations, so you’re usually in pretty nice homes and apartments too!

Here are the best house-sitting websites to check out:

• Trusted Housesitters

READ MORE ABOUT HOUSE SITTING:

• How to Become a House Sitter and Never Pay for Accommodation
• How to Start House Sitting

Does your colleague have a relative in Spain? Or maybe you have a distant cousin who lives in New Zealand. Or maybe a childhood friend of yours is working down in Brazil.

These days, we have a vast social network of friends and family that stretches across the globe. Don’t hesitate to use that! Ask your co-workers and friends if they know anyone where you’re going. Get your mom to ask her co-workers and friends, too.

Using your social network can be hugely helpful in traveling the world . You never know who knows who!

By implementing a variety of these tips, you’ll be able to travel for relatively little money. With a little planning and some creativity, you can travel the world for cheap.

Because if I can do it, you can do it too!

Whether it’s two months, two years, or just a two-week vacation, travel doesn’t need to cost a ton. The key is to get out of the mindset that you must travel in the typical manner of simply booking a flight and a hotel. Using out-of-the-box, nontraditional ways to travel can lead to big savings.

But it all starts with a change in mindset. From there, with some patience and practice, you’ll be able to make your travel dreams a reality — without breaking the bank!

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Are vacation packages worth it.

Vacation packages can save a lot on your 2024 vacation, as discounts may be available when booking multiple aspects of your vacation at once, such as the hotel and the flight. Flights and hotel packages can include a car rental at your destination. Check our package deal today on Expedia!

How much do vacation packages cost?

The exact cost of a vacation package varies based on various factors such as destination, accommodation quality, flight class, and even the time of year you visit. The type of vacation you embark on can also affect cost with options like family packages and all-inclusive packages . You can search for your specific price range, too, with plenty of vacations under $1,000 , for example. 

How to choose your vacation package?

To find the best vacation package, you'll need to consider the type of vacation you're looking to enjoy and the destination. Using the site's search function, you can find a wide variety of packages available for your chosen vacation location, while search filters can narrow down options based on vacation type. Browse our deals now.

How to find cheap vacation packages?

If you're looking to save, be sure to set filters for any budget limitations you may have in your search. Additionally, you can sort by price to automatically put the cheapest options first in your search results. Weekend getaway packages can be relatively inexpensive as well if you are looking for cheap getaways. 

How to vacation on a budget?

Budget-friendly travel is easy when you book with Expedia, as we can help you keep prices low via search filters, but that's not all. There are general trends to keep in mind regarding prices, such as travel packages generally being cheaper during the off-season of your vacation destination. Additionally, the higher the quality amenities you opt for, the higher the price typically is.

How to get great vacation deals?

Vacation deals are common with Expedia, as we offer plenty of discounts on great packages, with packages already being a deal compared to booking hotels and flights separately.

How to find last-minute vacation deals?

To book last-minute vacation trips, simply input your travel dates into the search and see what's available at that time for your destination. You can still filter based on virtually anything you can imagine, including amenities, price, star rating, and more.

Where should I go on vacation?

Booking a Hawaii vacation package is especially popular with all sorts of travelers, whether it's families or couples, and Disney World packages have much to offer for families. Consider the kind of vacation you're looking for to determine the perfect destination. 

What are some of the best vacation spots?

Top vacation spots include cheap Caribbean vacations and European vacation packages . With rich culture, history, and stunning natural beauty, a vacation package to these destinations can provide an unforgettable adventure. 

Where to go on a vacation in the US?

Staying in the US still offers easy access to great vacation places with Vegas packages and a Grand Canyon vacation being popular choices among other options. Whether you’re seeking the thrills of the Vegas Strip or the majestic views of the Grand Canyon, browse your options today.  

Where to go on vacation on a budget?

Cheap vacation ideas can still take you to a variety of great cheap vacation destinations, including Yellowstone vacations and Glacier National Park vacations . Parks and outdoor experiences tend to be free, so national park vacations are excellent for a budget-friendly trip. 

What are some great all-inclusive vacation packages?

All-inclusive vacations to the Bahamas and all-inclusive vacations to Cancun are some of the best options available, putting you in a Caribbean paradise. However, all-inclusive vacations are more varied than you might think, with worldwide options. 

What are the best destinations for a family vacation?

Traveling with kids means you'll need to find fun for the whole family, and Orlando vacation packages can put you and your little ones in the world's theme park capital. Of course, a vacation package to Anaheim offers a similar experience on the West coast. 

Where should I go on vacation this summer?

If you're looking to embrace the season, head to the beach with a summer vacation package to Destin . Of course, you may be more interested in escaping the heat with something like a vacation package to Vancouver . 

How to find cheap beach vacations?

In your search, you can apply search filters for beach trip packages and sort your results by price to see the cheap vacation options first. With those standards, you can find amazing cheap trips with beach vacation packages like vacation packages to Panama City and vacation packages to Myrtle Beach . 

What are some great couples' vacations?

Traveling with your partner means a more romantic adventure, which is easy when you book vacation packages to Honolulu . However, you can always opt for the classics and get a vacation package to Paris . Even a simple 3-day cheap getaway can be suitable. 

What are the best destinations for a luxury vacation?

One of the best destinations for luxury is a Las Vegas vacation package , as the city was essentially designed to make visitors feel luxurious. Of course, a Lake Tahoe vacation package can be just as fulfilling as a more outdoor-oriented experience. Golf vacations also tend to be quite elegant. 

How to find great Christmas vacation packages?

To find an excellent package for a Christmas vacation, simply put your travel dates into the search and discover what's available. Vacation packages to New York and vacation packages to Chicago are trendy around Christmas. 

Where to get ski vacation packages?

Ski vacation packages are readily available on Expedia, including vacation packages to Aspen , vacation packages to Vail , and packages to other notable ski resorts. Check out the deals now and book your next ski vacation today.  

Can I cancel my vacation package with Expedia?

Yes, you can cancel your vacation package via your itinerary page on Expedia or by contacting customer service. Remember that some packages are fully refundable, but the details vary based on each unique booking. A fully refundable package may depend on how far out from the travel dates you're canceling and what airline you are travelling with.

Why should I book my vacation package with Expedia?

Booking with Expedia makes it easy to plan your entire vacation in advance. Vacation packages with airfare included can also feature a rental car and even activities in some cases, with discounts typically coming with booking more than one aspect of your trip at a time. One Key members will earn  OneKeyCash  with every eligible booking that you can use to save on future eligible bookings. Membership is free, sign up today!

*OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia,  Hotels.com  and Vrbo.

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How to Find Cheap Summer Flights in 2024, According to Travel Experts

By Jessica Puckett

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

It’s a catch-22 that so many travelers bemoan: Summer is the most convenient time to travel thanks to good weather and plenty of federal holidays to extend that vacation . But summer holidays—like Memorial Day Weekend, Juneteenth, Fourth of July, and Labor Day Weekend—are among the most expensive days of the year to fly, leading many would-be-tourists to just stay home.

But if you purchase your airfare during the right booking window, it's still possible to score a deal on flights departing in June, July, and August. We’re talking roundtrip flights from New York to Copenhagen for just $459, Chicago to Madrid for $540, and Boston to Cancun for just $296, according to Hopper .

But to lock in cheap summer flights, the general consensus is not to delay any further. “Especially if you’re looking to catch a flight during one of the many holiday weekends this summer, you should start planning now before you miss out on the best deals,” says Laura Lindsay, Skyscanner’s global travel trends and destinations expert. A good rule of thumb is booking a month out at the very least, and buying tickets even farther ahead could lead to bigger savings.

When planning your summer vacay , there’s also more to consider than just the holiday crowds. According to Skyscanner’s data, the most popular week for international travel this summer is the week of June 10, while domestic flights are projected to reach peak popularity the following week, June 17, which is the same week as Juneteenth.

It's a lot to consider, we know. So, to help cut through the noise, we asked experts at Skyscanner, Going, and Hopper for their best budget travel tips on how to score cheap summer flights for every holiday weekend this year.

Memorial Day Weekend

The booking window to find a deal on flights for Memorial Day Weekend, which falls on Monday May 27 this year, is quickly closing. “You’ll find the best prices for Memorial Day Weekend now,” Hopper travel expert Lindsay Schwimer tells Condé Nast Traveler . “Book no later than April 15th as prices will only increase as we get closer to Memorial Day.” In the last three weeks leading up to the long weekend, prices are predicted to increase more than $40 per week, Hopper’s data shows.

This year, Juneteenth, which is celebrated annually on June 19, falls on a Wednesday. The fact that it’s a midweek day off in 2024, and that it’s a newer federal holiday , could mean a better chance of locking in cheaper airline tickets. “Juneteenth is a holiday that sits at the very beginning of the peak summer travel season when some schools are still in session—and not all employers observe this day—so you might be able to find deals a touch closer in,” says Katy Nastro, travel expert at Going .

The middle of June, however, usually ends up being a popular time with travelers, “so expect higher airfares overall,” Schwimer says. According to Hopper, the best time to book is now: mid-March. But booking no later than May 1 should help keep prices from getting too exorbitant.

Fourth of July

Falling on a Thursday in 2024, July 4th will be a tempting time for US travelers to take a long weekend and fly to a destination a bit farther from home.

To stay one step ahead of the high demand—and higher prices—buy your Independence Day airfares three months in advance, according to Hopper’s data. March and April are the best times to lock in tickets. “Book no later than June 1st to get a good price and ensure there is still availability on your route,” Schwimer says, adding that prices are likely to spike by about $50 per week in the last three weeks leading up to July 4th. Not only that, but flights around this time often sell out, so booking now will help you avoid big disappointment down the line.

Labor Day Weekend

Usually viewed as the traditional end of summer travel season , Labor Day Weekend has some unexpected advantages to finding flight deals. “Because some schools are back in session and a lot of folks take their summer trips before this period, you again might be able to find some cheaper fares versus traveling in the middle of summer,” Nastro says. “We just found some availability from the end of August into September from Las Vegas to Dublin roundtrip for only $518, a fare almost half off normal price.”

According to Hopper, the best time to find deals for Labor Day , which falls on Monday, September 2 in 2024, is one to three months in advance of the holiday weekend. But if you miss that window, you might still have options. “There will be some deals available if you book more last minute, meaning within three to six weeks of departure, but you’ll need to be flexible on destination or dates to find these deals,” Schwimer says.

More tips for finding affordable summer airfare

In fact, keeping an open mind on destinations and the exact dates of your trip is good advice for finding cheaper flights in general. “Travelers that can be flexible in terms of the destination, airports, airlines, and dates will have more options,” says Lindsay from SkyScanner, which offers an “ Everywhere” search feature to show cheap flights to destinations around the world departing from your home airport. Google Flights also offers a similar search filter, called “explore,” which allows users to input their departure airport and then move the map to see the most affordable destinations across the globe.

If you’re already set on a destination, consider using a price monitoring tool, which Hopper and Google Flights both offer. Travelers can input their vacation dates and airports and let the websites track airfares for them—they will send a notification when a good deal on your route is available. That means you can slip into vacation mode that much sooner.

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How to travel on a budget: Here are our 22 top tips

Editor's Note

"How can I travel on a budget?" is one of the top questions we receive at TPG.

There's no question that travel is expensive right now as millions satisfy the itch to travel more. Demand has been through the roof. Inflation and correspondingly high hotel, rental car and airline ticket costs have many would-be travelers throwing up their hands in frustration.

However, there are still many ways to save. In addition to using reserves of points and miles to book hotels and airfare, TPGers have many budget travel tips to help stretch your dollars when traveling.

Here are 22 ways to travel on a budget.

Use membership codes to save on car rentals

If you're a member of AAA or AARP, have a Costco membership, are a veteran or work for a large company with a car rental discount code, pull all of these levers. You might be eligible for discount codes you didn't even know about. A few examples from AARP include 30% off a car rental at Budget or Avis.

Related: How to never pay full price for a rental car

Look beyond traditional car rental companies and locations

Most people search for rentals at the airport with standard companies like Hertz and Avis. If you don't find good results, consider off-airport locations or try alternatives like Kyte , Turo and Silvercar.

Related: Delta and Turo launch partnership, allowing travelers to earn 2,000 SkyMiles on 1st rental

Check credit card merchant offers

Before booking your trip, review your credit cards' special merchant offers. Multiple issuers offer this option (although American Express is a leader in the category).

Every program works similarly: Log in to your card account online or through your banking app, review the offers available to you, add the ones you want and make a qualifying purchase using the card for which the offer is registered.

There are no promo codes to enter at online checkout or coupons to print to take to the register. There are likely offers you can activate that will provide discounts on dining, gas and entertainment.

Related: How credit card merchant offers can save you hundreds of dollars every year

Take advantage of free days at national parks

Every year the U.S. National Park Service sets aside several days when entry is completely free ; options include Martin Luther King Jr. Day in January, the first day of National Park Week in April, National Public Lands Day in September and Veterans Day in November.

Visiting a national park on one of the NPS' free-entry days can save you up to $35 per vehicle at some of the most popular national parks, such as Glacier National Park and the Grand Canyon .

Stay outside the national parks

You might dream of a night in a rustic cabin inside a national park, but getting that reservation could be challenging or costly — especially if you can't pay for it with points.

However, just beyond the park, there's probably a hotel you can book with points. For example, you could stay at the Holiday Inn in West Yellowstone with IHG One Rewards points; the SpringHill Suites just outside of Zion National Park is a great property if you have Marriott Bonvoy points to spend.

Related: The best campgrounds, hotels and lodges near Yellowstone National Park

Download the T-Mobile Tuesdays app

If you're a T-Mobile user, you're in luck: This app is a major perk that will put money in your pocket just for checking your phone on Tuesdays.

To participate, download the T-Mobile Tuesdays app , check the app on Tuesday and claim your discount code. We've seen weekly discounts on everything from rental cars to gas, hotels and theme park tickets.

Related: T-Mobile expands travel-focused 'Coverage Beyond' benefits

Get discounted gas at Shell through the Fuel Rewards app

At TPG, we love to stack savings. The Shell Fuel Rewards app is a good one to pile on the discounts.

You can link it to other loyalty programs — including American Airlines AAdvantage, Giant Food, Stop & Shop, Advance Auto and more — to receive extra discounts. Also, if you purchase through Fuel Rewards, link to partner retailers such as Petco, Bed Bath & Beyond, Office Depot/OfficeMax and many others to save even more.

Don't forget to use a credit card that gives bonus points or discounts at gas stations for even more savings. TPG likes the Citi Premier® Card (see rates and fees ), which awards 3 ThankYou points per dollar at gas stations, and the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express , which also gives 3% back at U.S. gas stations.

Related: These are the best credit cards for gas purchases

Save on theater tickets in New York and London

Check TodayTix for cheap Broadway and West End tickets if traveling to New York City or London.

The TodayTix app has discounted tickets to various shows available. Prices vary, but most of the top shows currently playing are available on the site and the app.

While not all shows are hugely discounted, TodayTix often runs no-fee promotions. Keep in mind that for some shows, you won't be able to choose your precise ticket location. Instead, you will pick a section you'd like to sit in.

Related: On with the show! How to get a great deal on Broadway tickets

Save on entrance fees with Bank of America

Bank of America cardholders can enjoy free general admission to more than 225 cultural institutions in dozens of U.S. cities on the first weekend of every month just by showing their cards. It's through the Museums on Us program that's been going on for 25 years. It's open to Bank of America, Merrill and Bank of America Private Bank (U.S. Trust) credit or debit card holders.

Related: 5 reasons to get the Bank of America Premium Rewards credit card

Use your library card for museum entry

Another way to get free museum admission is with a library "lending ticket" — a program where libraries will lend museum passes for a set amount of time.

Also, check if your local museum's membership comes with ROAM (a reciprocity program across North America). It's an easy way to get maximum value from a regional (and usually less expensive) membership.

Take a free walking tour

Sign up for a free walking tour on your first day in a new city. It's an inexpensive way to learn about the city and orient yourself.

Look online for options before traveling and sign up in advance if necessary. Then, all you need to do is show up with comfortable shoes and enjoy your free tour.

Although tipping is suggested, you'll spend much less, even after generously tipping your guide, than you would with a standard tour option. You will likely also meet other like-minded travelers, which can be welcome if you're traveling alone or looking to make new friends.

If you're interested in seeing what's available on your next trip, Google the city you'll visit and the phrase "free walking tour" to see what comes up.

Dine on the cheap with Seated

Here's a fun one: The Seated app allows you to dine out and get paid for it.

The app rewards diners who sign up and eat at designated restaurants with cash they can redeem through gift cards. All you have to do is let the app know you'll be dining at a location before you take a seat. You can also get gift cards for Uber, Amazon and Starbucks.

Fly on weekdays

Flexibility on which days you fly is one of the keys to getting the best airfare prices. Leisure travelers most commonly book weekend flights, while many business travelers fly on Monday. So, the midweek days — Tuesday and Wednesday — have lower demand and are often the best days to travel for lower prices.

Related: When is the best time to book airfare?

Book vacation packages

Airlines that bundle airfare and hotels as vacation packages can offer better deals thanks to their vast buying power and inventory. These bundles can offer savings of up to 40% off. Savings on business-class plane tickets and high-end hotels can offer some of the best deals.

Also, purchasing directly from the airline gives you a one-stop shopping experience. You can even add a car and activities to your trip at the same time. Plus, you'll often be able to take advantage of special sales and bonus points and miles offers.

Related: Everything you need to know about saving money with vacation packages

Use a price monitoring tool

Airline fare monitoring sites such as Hopper and Google Flights ensure you get notifications when your trip's best and lowest prices become available. Set up as many combinations as you're considering, including different departure and return dates, so that you can get alerts for all possible fare reductions.

Be flexible on destination

If you're not locked into a fall or winter vacation location (like you would be for a destination wedding or family reunion that you can't change), try an alternative to find better prices. For example, consider subbing Quebec City in for Paris if you want Old World charm. For scuba diving enthusiasts, skip the expensive long-haul flight to Australia and the Great Barrier Reef and instead head to the second-largest barrier reef in the world in easy-to-access Belize.

Related: 5 key tools and tips for cheap airfare

Hold your deal

If you see a great deal but are not yet ready to book, hold it . For example, Hopper's Price Freeze allows you to lock in the price of a flight for up to seven days to take more time to finalize plans before you book. Some airlines will also let you hold flights for a small fee. (Remember that all U.S. airlines, by law, allow you to hold and cancel a flight booking within 24 hours without penalty as long as you book more than seven days in advance.)

Re-price your flights and hotels

As long as you've booked a hotel, car or flight that can be canceled without penalty, you should make it part of your weekly routine to check for price drops. If you find a lower price, rebook. You can use these same rebooking strategies with points to make dynamic pricing work in your favor for hotel stays so you can save on award nights.

Related: How I saved 33,500 points on upcoming hotel stays

Consider alternative airports

With prices high, now is the time to be flexible and check all nearby airports. For example, Houston and Chicago have two airports, while the New York City area has three, including Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New Jersey . In Southern Florida, you could easily fly to West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale or Miami. It works internationally too: Try Gatwick Airport (LGW) instead of Heathrow Airport (LHR) when flying to London.

It may even make sense to get to one city by flying to another city and then taking a short train ride for the rest of the journey. For instance, you could fly into Philadelphia and catch a train to New York. Strategies like this can help you get to your destination on a flight with better pricing or award availability.

Use positioning flights

Positioning flights are unrealistic for every situation or trip, but they can often offer better award availability or pricing than those from your home airport. Can you reach your destination for a lot less by starting in Seattle or Chicago? Would adding another flight to a different airport save you money or miles? Just ensure you leave enough time between flights to avoid unnecessary travel headaches.

Related: Use positioning flights to get amazing deals

Use points and miles when appropriate

Since you are reading TPG, you may also want to earn points or miles through your everyday spending that you can use to pay for part of your trip. Some credit cards — like the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card and the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card — can help you earn airline miles or hotel points that you can redeem directly with the airline or hotel. Cards such as the American Express® Gold Card earn transferable points you can redeem for travel or transfer to various travel partners.

If you have a stash of points and cash fares are high, it makes a lot of sense to use those points instead. For example, I recently priced a trip to San Francisco and found a flight over the Fourth of July weekend; it should normally cost about $400, but for this particular weekend, it was going to cost me at least $621. I used 46,000 Delta SkyMiles instead. While it wasn't the best redemption in the world, it was better than shelling out all that cash. Most of those SkyMiles came from credit card spending on my Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card .

Related: Why I'm keeping my Delta Reserve card even when I'm flying less

There are many strategies for getting the most out of your credit card . You'll generally get the most value when redeeming for premium-cabin flights or luxury hotel stays. However, you may prefer to book economy award flights or lower-category hotel stays using your points to stretch your points further.

You can join AARP for discounts even if you are not retired. The advocacy group for older adults offers all kinds of cool discounts, including $60 to $200 off British Airways flights and 10% off Hilton hotels.

Related: How to use AARP discounts on travel

Bottom line

Spending a small amount of time researching the best ways to travel on a budget could easily make a dream trip, like a Paris vacation, more attainable.

It's possible to take an excellent vacation on a budget. You just need to put in the time to plan your trip, budget your expenses, download a virtual wallet of money-saving apps and consider using points and miles to decrease your out-of-pocket costs.

Some of our top budget travel tips include shopping around, signing up for deal alerts through websites like TPG and using points and miles. Opening a credit card or two for the sign-up bonus once or twice every few years could make your trips even cheaper. Don't forget to sign up for our daily newsletter , where we teach you how to travel better for less. At TPG, we make traveling on a budget easy.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• The 18 best places to travel in 2023
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

Additional reporting by Melissa Klurman.

How To Travel The World Cheap: 57 Epic Budget Travel Hacks for 2024!

There are lots of practices you can adopt in order to travel the world cheap . The most effective ways are to take advantage of Airmiles, exchange work for free food and accommodation, have a well researched travel plan and to be savvy with bank cards and money exchanges.

Since 2008 I’ve travelled all over the world on a fairly tight budget, often working as I go. In this guide I want to share 57 cheap travel hacks that I’ve picked up which will have you exploring the globe for less.

So, let’s get straight into it!

Transportation Travel Tips & Hacks

1. Flight booking hacks. One of the biggest initial costs when travelling is your flight ticket. So in order to travel cheap, use flight comparisons sites such as Kiwi . You may find booking directly through the airline is cheaper but always use a price comparison engine to check before you book.

Pro Tip : Make sure to clear your cookies and browsing history to avoid price increases. By searching for flights you are signalling to the world that you are looking to buy, so prices will then increase daily in order to get you to panic buy. Delete cookies or browse in incognito mode to avoid this. @import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Inter&family=Inter:wght@500&family=Noto+Serif&family=Noto+Serif:wght@500&display=swap'); .tp_wrapper { font-family: 'Inter', sans-serif; /* the font, can be replaced with 'Noto Serif' */ max-width: 1024px; } .tp_content { background-color: #DEE9F0; /* main block background color */ padding: 24px 32px 32px; } .tp_subtitle { margin: 0 0 16px; font-size: 22px; font-weight: 500; } .tp_text { font-size: 17px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 145%; margin: 0; } .tp_button { display: inline-block; background: #2A243B; border-radius: 6px; box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer; color: #fff; font-size: 20px; margin-top: 24px; padding: 12px 32px; text-decoration: none; }

2. Try changing the home location of flight booking websites to see if purchasing in another currency is cheaper.

3. One of the cheapest ways to travel is through offering to get bumped off a flight in exchange for a flight voucher. These can be seriously rewarding! Companies will regularly overbook flights on the assumption that people will cancel or not show up. On those times when this doesn’t happen the airlines need to free up seats quick, and that’s where you step in!

4. For short trips choose carry on only or if you need to check baggage, pay for it online before you travel. Airlines will often charge more at the airport.

5. Save on rail travel costs by using railcards. I saved a ton through using the Japan Rail Pass during one visit, however they only save money if you use them to the full so do the research first.  Also consider using overnight trains to save on accommodation costs. This works great in some countries such as India and is an awesome local experience too.

6. If you feel comfortable, consider hitchhiking. Alternatively, connect with other travellers at your hostel to carpool.

7. If you have a flexible plan, investigate relocating vehicles to get free or discounted car hire.

Consider renting a car with Rentalcars , an international car rental booking service that is present all over the world. With Rentalcars you will definitely find a perfect car for your perfect trip wherever you are.

8. When travelling for long periods save money through walking or using buses, instead of using expensive taxis. Use ride sharing apps such as Uber, Lyft, Cabify and Grab. Uber opened the door for cheap car journeys but now there are lots of different companies operating all over the world. Research which ones are best for the areas you’re traveling too and download the app before you go.

9. One of the biggest ways to traveling on the cheap by far, is to use an Airmiles credit card. Every time you spend money with that credit card you will be earning Airmile points which can be exchanged for flights. Just remember to always pay off your credit card every month to avoid high interest fees.

10. Create frequent flyer accounts with every airline you travel with then sit back and enjoy the rewards.

11. A top sneaky travel hack is to jump on airline price errors. Sometimes airfares can pop up at crazy low prices, often caused by a glitch in the Matrix (or something!). If you manage to purchase one of these flights the airline will often honour the incorrect price. Act fast and take advantage of these opportunities by following these ninja websites:

• Secret flying.com
• Jacks Flight Club (UK) or Scott’s Cheap Flights (US)
• The Flight Deal

12. Pack light and smart to avoid excess baggage fees. Roll your clothes or use packing cubes to save on space.

13. Take advantage of layovers to enjoy a quick city visit without any extra flight costs.

14. Try booking two one-way trips rather than a return. I’ve had success with this on flights and rail trips.

15. Keep receipts for gift purchases and claim back the tax at the airport before you leave the country.

16. Travel by campervan. If you’re looking to explore your own country (or continent), consider buying a campervan to combine your method of transportation with your accommodation. My campervan has been one of the best investments I’ve ever made and I can highly recommend it. For all the latest info on converting your own campervan check out my van life section .

Accommodation Travel Hacks

17. Get cheap or free accommodation through housesitting . With housesitting you will generally look after the persons house whilst they are away. Many housesitting jobs often include pet sitting.

18. Get free accommodation and learn all about life from a local through couch surfing .

19. Pick accommodation with free breakfast to save on food costs.

20. Choose private hostel rooms instead of more expensive hotels.

🏨 Where can I find the cheapest hostels?

You will definitely find the hostel you need with Hostelworld , the global hostel-focused online booking platform, inspires passionate travelers to see the world, meet new people, and come back with extraordinary stories to tell.

21. Use booking.com ‘s price matching promise to get the best price on hotels.

22. Travelling on a special occasion? Be sure to let your hotel know and they might offer you a free upgrade.

Work Abroad

23. Exchange work for accommodation and/or food with companies such as Workaway or World packers. Or, if you want to learn about organic growing, check out WWOOF .

24. Earn a passive income to support yourself whilst travelling. There are so many ways to get a side hustle going these days but some examples include;

• Selling your photos on stock photography websites such as Dreamstime or Shutterstock.
• Starting a website. Make sure you use a fast and reliable host. For my websites I use Siteground .
• Selling your photos directly with a website that does it all for you. I use Smugmug .
• Teaching English online.

25. Join a voluntary programme abroad for example VSO. Many volunteer programmes charge a fee and in return they will provide accommodation, food and training. There are volunteer programmes all over the world in all sorts of different professions. For example, I joined the American Conservation Experience as I was interested in conservation and wanted to explore the South West . Here are some other ideas to explore .

26. Work in a travel job, for example as a tour guide with Contiki, Exodus or Backroads. For adventure travel consider life as an Overland Leader. I’ve worked as an overland leader for severn years and have travelled extensively through Asia, Africa and the Americas. Read more about this job here . If you have a particular trade you can also work on cruise ships or private yachts.

27. Work abroad with a work visa. Below the age of 30 work visas for many countries are quite straight forward to get. Whilst in that country you can then pick up temporary work which is usually unskilled, such as fruit picking, retail or a bar work.

After a certain age, usually 30, some countries will still allow you to work but will require work visas for specific professions, for example as a ski instructor or scuba dive instructor.

Alternatively you could get your TEFL certificate and teach English abroad. This can also be done remotely, online.

28. Do your job online. Can your work be done remotely? Post Covid it seems like more companies are exploring this as a full time option so this could open new avenues for many. If you have a service that can be provided online you could also offer your services on Craigslist or Fivrr. 

Destination Tips For Budget Travel

29. A cheap way to travel is to visit destinations where your home currency is strong. You’ll benefit from a strong exchange rate and from cheaper costs of living.

30. Whilst you’re on a tight budget, skip destinations with expensive visas.

31. Stick to one region at a time to avoid air travel costs. When I first went travelling I booked a round the world air ticket thinking I could see the world in 6 months. Boy did I have a lot to learn! Pick one region to fully explore first before moving onto the next. Don’t do what I did and be in a hurry to see everything all at once.

32. Travel during the shoulder season to benefit from lower costs and avoid the crowds at the same time – double win!

Food Travel Hacks To Save Money

33. Cook your own food. One of the best ways to travel around the world for cheap is to limit the amount you spend of food. Now don’t get me wrong I am a complete foodie and believe one of the best things about travelling is experiencing new types of cuisine. However, eating new types of food doesn’t mean going to the most expensive restaurants, in fact it’s often the opposite. But travelling on a limited budget does mean it’s not possible to eat out everyday since the cheapest way to eat often involves cooking your own food. Therefore choose accommodation with kitchens included such as hostels or rent an apartment.

34. Jump on happy hours and all you can eat deals.

35. Eat out at delicious and cheap street food stalls with the locals.

36. Avoid restaurants near popular tourist spots as these will often be overpriced.

37. Limit your alcohol if you have a limited budget.  Alcohol is often expensive and isn’t a necessity.

38. Use a filtered water bottle and never buy water again. Check out this guide to discover which filtered water bottle I recommend for travel .

39. Stealth budget travel hack: Use chewing gum or tic tac containers to transport your favourite spices. Cheap food doesn’t have to be bland!

Planning Tips For How To Travel On The Cheap

40. Set a budget and stick to it. But be sure to include a generous contingency to allow for times when things don’t go to plan or to cover a once in a lifetime opportunity if it arrises. 

41. If you are travelling on a tight budget you need to make a plan before you leave. List your priorities before you set off and refer to the list once you’re on the road. That way you won’t get sucked into doing expensive tours that you weren’t interested in anyway. Check out Google Maps Trip Planner for a great free trip planning tool.

42. Research whether activities you want to enjoy are cheaper to book in advance or are best left open and flexible. Last minute trips can sometimes work out cheaper.

43. If you don’t want the hassle of planning a trip use a travel agent. They know what they’re doing and can often find you the best deals.

44. Get smart and savvy with city tourist cards which provide entrance fees for multiple sites. If you know you’re going to visit all the top sites these will definitely save you money overall. 

45. Enjoy free city walking tours. I’ve enjoyed great free city tours in Galway and Yerevan to name just two. But of course they’re not completely free – don’t forget to tip!

46. Research entrance prices beforehand to avoid getting scammed. However, just be aware of what the local currency is doing as prices can jump up if a currency weakens.

47. Follow your favourite travel companies on social media to learn about special promotions or giveaways.

Money Top Tips For Traveling Cheap

48. Get smart on money Exchange. Never change money at the airport or at busy tourist spots as these will have the worst rates. Hotels or hostels may also offer exchanges which again typically aren’t the best rates but they are safe and convenient so way up the risks/benefits of both.

49. An easy but important cheap way to travel is to use a travel card or join a bank with no overseas fees. This way you can hit the ATM without getting hit with overseas withdrawal fees. I use Starling Bank which is an online bank. All of my transactions are managed online via an app. Also, if purchasing online, they don’t charge for overseas transactions and have decent exchange rates.

50. Haggle but don’t be a d**k! Some cultures embrace bartering, expect it even, but these local people also have to support themselves so don’t be the person that walks away from a purchase for the sake of a dollar! 

51. Use donatefull.com or groupon.com to find best coupons or use wikibuy to apply coupon codes at checkout.

52. A top life hack for travelling is to purchase a Scrubba bag and save on laundry bills. This nifty little bag packs down really small so doesn’t take up any room in your luggage and with just a 3 minute shake, can wash your clothes as good as any washing machine!

53. Keep rechargeable batteries in the fridge or at least in shady places. Rechargeable batteries retain 90% of their full charge if they’re kept cold. Not freezer cold though as this will have the opposite effect.

Phone and Internet

54. Get a local sim card and avoid hefty roaming fees. In some countries these can be a rather involved process but for most it’s quite straight forward. You often need your passport to register the sim card.

55. Use offline maps to save data. I use maps.me for most places when I’m travelling.

56. Consider investing in your own wifi router if you require a good connection. In our campervan we use this super fast Huawei wifi travel hotspot which allows us to connect multiple devices in areas where signal is typically poor.

Travel Insurance

57. Last but by no means least, get yourself some good travel insurance. Travel insurance can be expensive for long trips but you just never know when you might need it. The world of insurance can be a minefield but the guys at SafetyWing do great deals for long term travel through allowing you pay on a month by month basis. I highly recommend checking them out.

Summary On How To Travel The World Cheaply

Travelling around the world cheaply can do be done in many ways but it often requires a good amount of planning in advance. Be prepared for your trip through investigating the best deals, signing up for Airmile credit cards and joining frequent flyer programmes. Consider exchanging work for accommodation and reduce food costs through cooking your own food. Ensure you have the best bank cards to avoid big transaction fees, choose destinations where your currency is strong and use local Sim cards for the best phone and internet deals.

Through incorporating even just a few of these cheap travel tips you’ll be well on your way to exploring further, for longer 🙂

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Louise is a Mountain Leader and Snowboard Instructor from South Wales. As a former Adventure Tour Leader she has spent the last 15 years travelling Asia, Africa and the Americas. Louise is a published photographer and is currently based in the UK.

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15 Affordable Airlines That Prove Cheap Travel Is Possible

Posted: March 18, 2024 | Last updated: March 18, 2024

Any frequent flier knows the discomfort, inconvenience, and sticker shock of air travel. However, there are ways to make it more affordable. Opt for economy seating, utilize credit cards that earn frequent flyer miles, and choose budget airlines.

If you’re worried about the safety of any of these airlines, given the low cost, rest assured that all airlines flying into the USA are approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). While some of these airlines may not have stellar reputations, they consistently offer the most affordable options for travel.

1. Southwest Airlines

Known for its no-frills approach and generous baggage policy, Southwest often offers competitive fares. I’ve found their staff to be generally friendly. Their “no allocated seating” system is unusual, and you won’t find their prices listed on any aggregator sites. However, their website is worth checking out for price comparisons. They have routes throughout the USA, Mexico, Cuba, and the Caribbean.

A significant player in Europe, Ryanair provides many routes across the continent, making it a go-to for many budget travelers. For example, you can expect fares such as a $93 round trip between London and Vienna during May or even cheaper in the colder months. If you have a little money to spare, upgrade to their upfront seats for quicker deplaning and more comfort.

I always think of EasyJet and Ryanair together when considering budget European airlines. EasyJet offers a wide range of destinations and frequently has enticing promotions. They fly all over Europe, Morocco, Egypt, and some Middle Eastern countries. You can grab a round-trip flight between London and Cairo for under $300 or an $85 round-trip fare between Athens and Milan.

Combining value with comfort on domestic routes, JetBlue offers amenities like free in-flight entertainment and complimentary snacks. While they’re well-known for routes all across the Americas and the Caribbean, they also go directly to several destinations in the UK and Europe. Bad reviews of this airline tend to cite rude staff more than any other issue.

Serving various destinations across Asia, AirAsia is renowned for its frequent sales and extensive network. I’ve traveled between Australia and Asia on this airline. The fares are cheap enough to upgrade to a better seat for a low cost. If you’re traveling within Asia, you can find plenty of destinations for under $50 one way.

6. Spirit Airlines

Known for its à la carte pricing model, Spirit can be a good option for those willing to forgo some amenities for a lower fare. Spirit only travels within the US, and that’s good as it certainly doesn’t have the comfort level for lengthy international flights. This airline can be cost-effective, but sometimes the add-ons end up being more than you’d pay with another airline. It’s worth comparing prices.

7. Frontier Airlines

Like Spirit, Frontier provides basic services at competitive prices, especially on domestic routes within the U.S. Based in Denver, Frontier Airlines operates over 100 A320 family aircraft and serves 120 destinations in the Americas. Known for its 43% fuel savings compared to other U.S. airlines, Frontier offers free flights for children under 14 through its Discount Den club.

8. Allegiant Air

Allegiant Air offers unique cost-saving measures by not flying to every city daily and allowing passengers to customize services. It provides discounted IconBundles, potentially saving travelers up to $114 per person. Additionally, while free random seating is available, passengers can choose specific seats for an extra fee, although seat availability together for families is not guaranteed.

9. Norwegian Air Shuttle

This airline prioritizes delivering the lowest fares alongside high comfort and service standards. The focus is on providing flexibility, allowing travelers to begin with a basic ticket and customize their journey by adding only the necessary services. While they unfortunately no longer fly to the U.S. , they provide cheap airfare between over 100 destinations within Europe.

10. Wizz Air

Wizz Air strategically selects a blend of primary, secondary, and regional airports to achieve the lowest cost base in Central and Eastern Europe. This approach allows this Hungarian airline to provide efficient customer service at competitive prices, which is evident in its fare structure. They also offer further discounts if you join their Discount Club.

11. Norse Atlantic Airways

Fancy a quick trip over the pond? Norse Atlantic flies directly from New York’s JFK to many European destinations. Let’s say you wanted to go from New York to London in May—you could fly into London’s Gatwick Airport and return the following week for $500.

A subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, Scoot offers affordable options for travelers primarily exploring Asia-Pacific destinations. However, they also fly to Greece and Australia, making an affordable journey between them. A one-way ticket from Athens to Melbourne can cost as little as $400. The seats are surprisingly comfortable for a budget airline—even for someone on the tall side.

13. Icelandair

Known for its connections between North America and Europe, Icelandair offers a unique stopover in Iceland and competitive fares for transatlantic travel. Icelandair serves as Iceland’s primary airline, providing routes from the USA to both Iceland and various European destinations.

Travelers can include an Icelandair Stopover at no extra cost when flying with the airline. Round-trip flights from New York are available for under $400 for those interested in witnessing the Northern Lights.

14. Jetstar

If I need a cheap flight from Australia to the US, this is the one I use. I often find direct flights for around $200 from Sydney or Melbourne to Hawaii. From there, I can catch another budget airline to the mainland. Jetstar is a budget airline belonging to Australia’s Qantas Airlines. They operate all over Australia, Asia, and Hawaii.

15. Vueling

A prominent European airline, Vueling provides affordable options across the continent and has become a preferred choice for many travelers seeking value. I used them while traveling in Spain and found them efficient and extremely cheap. I also traveled with them from Barcelona to Athens for under $200 to make my Scoot connection to Australia.

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Check Out One of These 5 Cheap Beach Vacations for Your Next Trip

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Table of Contents

1. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

2. virginia beach, virginia, 3. lauderdale-by-the-sea, florida, 4. huntington beach, california, 5. south padre island, texas, cheap beach vacations, recapped.

Oceanfront getaways don't have to max your travel budget. Stay thrifty at one of these five destinations, known as some of the best cheap beach vacations in the U.S.

The skyline of Myrtle Beach on the Grand Strand. (Getty Images)

Long regarded as both a family-friendly vacation destination and a wild spring break hot spot, Myrtle Beach has a little something for most travelers, including those in search of a cheap beach vacation.

In addition to 60 miles of beaches, you’ll find a lot of seafood, live music and shows, and nature to explore, such as the Brookgreen Gardens and Murrells Inlet MarshWalk. Depending on your budget, you can fill your days with shopping and entertainment or simply while away the hours beachside.

Nearby you’ll find plenty of hotels, rental properties and even campgrounds, many of which are budget-friendly. In fact, you can often book a condo or hotel for less than $100 a night.

» Learn more: The best Marriott beach hotels in the U.S.

Aerial view of the Virginia Beach oceanfront looking south at sunset. (Getty Image)

For more laid-back vacation vibes on a budget, head to Virginia Beach. Not that this Atlantic destination is in any way boring. Beyond suntanning, visitors can go to events like the Neptune’s Spring Wine Tasting Festival, the FunkFest Beach Party and the Pungo Strawberry Festival, which offer unique experiences throughout the year.

There are also plenty of concerts to enjoy — including free ones all summer long — and the three-mile long Virginia Beach Boardwalk offers a place to shop and dine or just wander, ride, or roll and enjoy the waterfront views.

For those who want to get outdoors, there’s camping, hiking and biking trails, with miles of waterfront to explore via kayak or paddleboard.

As for where to stay, you can likely find hotels — yes, even beachfront properties — for around $100 a night. It’s a great option for a beach vacation on the cheap.

» Learn more: Best value hotel rewards programs this year

Lauderdale by the Sea near Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Getty Images)

If it's a small-town, old Florida-style relaxation that appeals to you, avoid the more expensive cities of Fort Lauderdale and Miami in exchange for Lauderdale-by-the-Sea.

You’ll still be close enough to drive to these lively hotspots if you’re craving more vibrant nightlife, but you’ll stay and play for a lot less (about $130 per night as opposed to $200 or more per night).

Plus, this smaller seaside town is more walkable, there are no high-rises to block your view of the ocean and there’s plenty of beach to stretch out on and enjoy.

Divers and snorkelers will find coral reefs just 100 yards off the sandy beach, perfect for an afternoon of underwater exploration. Visitors can peruse the farmers market at El Prado park fall through spring, take free dance lessons at the popular Beach Pavilion and explore the many places to shop and dine. There’s even a free Pelican Hopper bus so visitors can quickly and easily pop from attraction to attraction.

» Learn more: The best Hilton beach resorts

Aerial view of Huntington Beach, California. (Getty Images)

Located in Southern California between San Diego and Los Angeles, this beach destination offers a welcome retreat year-round, and for much less than those nearby metropolises. And for those looking to surf and stay on a budget, it’s likely a more suitable choice.

Huntington Beach is known as Surf City, USA, but even landlubbers can find things to do. Check out the Huntington Beach Pier for a seaside dinner, fishing or just strolling and enjoying the coastal views. Relax or play on 10 miles of beachfront during the day, then light a fire in one of the beach bonfire pits on the sand as the sun sets.

Peruse the shops and dining options downtown or visit the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve for some birdwatching. Take a whale-watching tour, rent a bike or do as the locals do: grab a board and hit the waves. You can even sign up for a surfing lesson.

Expect to shell out around $130-$150 per night for decent budget-friendly accommodations. This is still less than the average per night in Los Angeles, which is closer to $200 or more per night for a beachfront hotel in Santa Monica.

» Learn more: Don’t let hidden hotel fees spoil your stay

South Padre Island, a coastal resort town at the very Southern tip of Texas. (Getty Images)

Texas beaches often get a bad rap when compared to more traditionally idyllic destinations like California or Florida, but for adventure-seekers, South Padre Island offers city amenities close to wild and wonderful oceanfront.

A veritable mecca for kiteboarders and windsurfers, these southern shores are a great place to catch some air from the water and even take a lesson or two if you’re the adventurous type.

Likewise, driving and camping on the sand along the beach anywhere north of Beach Access #5 is not only welcomed, it’s encouraged (but a 4WD vehicle is recommended for much of it).

You can visit the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary, listen to live music at waterfront restaurants, go fishing or just catch some rays and build sandcastles on the beach. There’s even free transportation to many beach access points.

In addition to a number of campsites, you can also book less rustic accommodations for less than $100 a night (though more luxurious stays are also available).

» Learn more: How to use the annual Ultimate Rewards® hotel credit

Affordable beach holidays can be found in many places, you just have to choose your destination wisely. Avoid large metropolises or more popular beach destinations, instead opting for smaller towns on the outskirts. Your budget will thank you for it.

Stretch your dollar further by booking lodging closer to your trip dates ( if you’re willing to risk it ) and flying on cheaper days .

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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The best cheap all-inclusive resorts starting from $14 a night

It’s a common misconception that all-inclusive resorts are only for the ultra-wealthy, but there are plenty of great cheap all-inclusive resorts. From water sports and scuba diving to golfing and spa treatments, these cheap all-inclusive resorts have it all.

In this article:

Top affordable all-inclusive resorts in the caribbean, top affordable all-inclusive resorts in mexico, top affordable all-inclusive resorts in central and south america, what to consider when choosing an all-inclusive resort.

The Caribbean is world-famous for its all-inclusive resorts, discover why at one of these cheap all-inclusive resorts.

Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana

The Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana stands out among the best all-inclusive resorts in the Dominican Republic. The resort has all the modern conveniences you could wish including an infinity pool and views of stunning beaches . It’s located on the shores of Punta Cana, less than 30 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ). 

• Amenities: The number of options is almost overwhelming, with 7 restaurants and 10 bars to enjoy throughout the resort. You can also book a variety of water activities, such as snorkeling and sailing. For sports enthusiasts, hit the links for a day on the golf course or enjoy a game of tennis or volleyball.
• Starting price: $215/night

Gran Ventana Beach Resort

The Gran Ventana Beach Resort is equipped for all sorts of vacations, including all-inclusive experiences for couples, families, and trips with friends. Perfect for a group escape to celebrate a wedding or other significant life events. 

Situated directly on the beach , this resort is located within a gated community named Playa Dorada and sits on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic.

• Amenities: On top of direct access to the beach, you can enjoy swimming in 3 pools, a kids’ club to keep children entertained, and air conditioning throughout the resort –  a lifesaver in hot and humid weather.
• Starting price: $78/night

Sunscape Puerto Plata

The Sunscape Puerto Plata is a 4-star hotel resort located on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, with the tropical jungle on one side and stunning beaches on the other. It’s a family-friendly resort that’s designed to accommodate families, while still providing some adults-only areas. 

Just a 20-minute drive from Puerto Rico International Airport (SJU), Sunscape Puerto Plata sits against Playa Dorada Beach in the Northern Dominican Republic. It faces the Atlantic Ocean and is surrounded by an 18-hole golf course.

• Amenities: The all-inclusive experience at this resort is named Unlimited-Fun(R), requiring no wristbands. This includes unlimited access to 9 restaurants and 6 bars. Kids can stay entertained at the Explorer’s Club, with staff certified by the Red Cross. You can also visit the historic Puerto Plata and play golf on the surrounding course – designed by Robert Trent Jones.
• Starting price: $74/night

Come on down to Mexico for the all-inclusive experience of your dreams, and save money with these affordable high-rated resorts.

SANDOS Finisterra

The SANDOS Finisterra resort is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere, but it’s a great romantic getaway too. It offers a wide variety of rooms, including Jr. Suites, which are perfect for families looking to stretch their dollar as much as possible – with queen beds and sofa pull-outs to fit everyone.

This resort is located in the heart of Cabo, with views of both the Bay of San Lucas and the Pacific Ocean. Thanks to its central location you can access many attractions without needing a car or public transport.

• Amenities: This unique, all-inclusive experience also allows you to explore the best of Cabo’s restaurant scene. You can engage in water sports, browse the small shops and stores throughout Downtown Cabo, and enjoy some of the great fishing available. The resort is also home to the famous Blue Marlin Bar, where you can sip a margarita before heading out to experience the vibrant nightlife. 
• Starting price: $14/night

Hotel Dos Playas Faranda Cancun

The Hotel Dos Playas Faranda Cancun is a 3-star hotel in the middle of Cancun’s famous “hotel zone”, which has a massive collection of all-inclusive resorts and hotels. This is a great option to enjoy the classic Cancun all-inclusive getaway without overspending. 

With easy access to world-class dining, vibrant nightclubs, and picturesque beaches, this affordable resort is nestled in the heart of Cancun. It sits on Tortugas Beach, with walkable access to the surrounding Hotel Zone.

• Amenities: Enjoy walking out onto a private beach, swimming in the ocean, grabbing a bite to eat at the beachside restaurants, and basking in the sun under a cabana. The resort features a Thai restaurant that is popular with all visitors, not just the residents of Hotel Dos Playas Faranda Cancun. Kids can stay entertained at the sea park, while families and couples alike can enjoy the nightly entertainment provided poolside.
• Starting price: $60/night

Villa Del Palmar Beach Resort & Spa

Villa del Palmar Beach Resort & Spa is an upscale resort brand that offers exceptional vacations in some of Mexico’ s most beautiful coastal locations. Known for its commitment to luxury, comfort, and outstanding service, Located on the shores of Banderas Bay in Puerto Vallarta, all of the rooms at Villa del Palma have picturesque views. 

• Amenities: Look forward to spacious living areas, private balconies or terraces, and fully equipped kitchens. The architecture reflects a blend of contemporary design and traditional Mexican elements, creating an aesthetically pleasing environment. This resort is known for its diverse dining options, offering a variety of restaurants and bars that cater to different culinary preferences. El Patron, one of the on-site restaurants offers authentic Mexican flavors, while Yashinoki Japanese Restaurant serves unique Japanese dishes.
• Starting price: $107/night

Some of the best cheap all-inclusive resorts are tucked away in Central and South America. Check out these options to keep your vacation affordable while enjoying the perks of an all-inclusive resort.

Best Western Jaco Beach

Located along the pristine shores of Jaco Beach, the Best Western Jaco Beach beckons guests to an immersive Costa Rican escape.  

The main draw here is the stunning beachfront and the vibrant local culture, as it’s just a short walk to Jaco and a driving distance from San Jose. For kids, there’s also lots of on-site entertainment and several pools.

• Amenities: Best Western Jaco Beach All-Inclusive Resort has spacious rooms with private balconies capturing panoramic ocean views. There are buffet dining options with special diet menus on request. The resort also offers zipline tours, crocodile safaris, surfing lessons, fishing trips, and guided shopping excursions to nearby Jaco.
• Starting price: $101/night

Japaratinga Lounge Resort

Nestled in the heart of Costa dos Corais, adjacent to Maragogi, Japaratinga unveils itself as a true natural haven. This Brazilian paradise boasts idyllic beaches, coral barriers, natural pools, and lush landscapes. 

Situated along the coastline of Japaratinga, Alagoas in Brazil the resort offers stunning views of the South Atlantic Ocean and easy access to the beach.

• Amenities: A beach bar, terrace, and a cozy coffee shop/cafe. There’s an outdoor pool and a children’s pool, where you can use sun loungers and pool umbrellas. It also offers additional amenities such as a sauna, steam room, and free in-room Wi-Fi. 
• Starting price: $296/night

Check these essential points before booking to have a worry-free all-inclusive vacation:

• Location: Blue waters in Punta Cana? White sand beaches in Puerto Vallarta? You need to pick exactly where you want to visit as well as any specifics you need to tick off, whether or not you’ll need a passport .
• Amenities: If you want to hit the fitness center or swimming pool every morning, make sure you check which hotels and resorts offer these options. You might even need kids’ clubs to keep the little ones entertained while you relax. Take the time to look through each list of amenities , especially if you have particular travel needs.
• Activities: Whether you’ve always wanted to swim with dolphins or enjoy a few massages on your holidays, check out the offerings from each resort before booking your stay. 
• Dining options: Find out which resorts offer your favorite cuisines, learn about the chefs who will be cooking for you throughout your stay, and explore (online) the restaurants where you can unwind and refuel. Food is an important part of your all-inclusive stay, so be sure to find your perfect match.
• Room types: Looking for a family-friendly resort with spacious rooms? Need a romantic honeymoon suite to enjoy some quality husband and wife time? Be sure to pick the right room type to match your needs.
• Resort fees: A r esort fee is a mandatory, daily charge imposed by many hotels and resorts in addition to the advertised room rate. It covers the cost of amenities and services provided by the hotel. Common components of a resort fee include Wi-Fi access, pool and gym usage, shuttle services, daily newspapers, and in-room coffee or tea.

How does KAYAK know what to put in this guide?

As a frequent visitor to all-inclusive resorts, I know the ins and outs of finding a great deal. From my first all-inclusive experience honeymooning with my wife on beaches in the Dominican Republic to our most recent vacation with our five children, I can attest to the benefits of cheap all-inclusive resorts.

I put this guide together through years of travel experience, consulting with other experts who have visited these specific resorts, and reviewing the KAYAK rating system to determine. Please note all prices were accurate as of 21/03/2024 and are subject to change.

FAQs about cheap all-inclusive resorts

You can find cheap all-inclusive resorts all over the world on KAYAK, where you can personalize your search to match your exact budget, schedule, and every other detail to find your dream vacation.

You can begin researching your flights through KAYAK, using search features and filters to customize your travel plans to your style and budget.

All-inclusive family resorts are a great choice to maximize time with your kids and loved ones. Find the best all-inclusive family resorts in this list, with options for all budgets.

Yes, many resorts offer all-inclusive experiences specifically for adults. Use the ‘adults only’ filter within the amenities section when searching on KAYAK to find the best options.

Depending on the popularity of an all-inclusive resort, you may want to book your reservation a full year in advance. However, regardless of the popularity, I recommend a minimum of 3 months in advance to ensure you can arrange the rest of your travel accommodations.

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Flights to Miami for less than $100? Cheap airline tickets to nab this Spring and Summer

Sometimes you just need to get away.

This spring and summer, there are a plethora of destinations with affordable roundtrip airfare, from bustling cities to sun-soaked beach paradises – both domestic and abroad. Think Puerto Rico, Ireland or Las Vegas.  

Travelers should start looking at prices at least three to four months in advance for domestic trips, and the best prices generally will be one to two months before the departure date, according to travel app Hopper.

International trips require more planning, with flights to Asia and Oceania booked between five and seven months in advance. However, people going to Europe or elsewhere can wait until three and six months for the lowest rates.

As always, flexibility allows for better deals. Flying on a Tuesday or Wednesday could save travelers up to 30% compared to a weekend trip, Hopper said. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

According to data from fellow travel platform Kayak, the most popular U.S. cities for travelers to depart from between March and September are New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Boston and Washington, D.C. 

Travel platforms Hopper, Kayak and Expedia shared with USA TODAY the destinations with the cheapest roundtrip airfare this spring and summer from the most popular U.S. cities. 

This Florida airport had the most delays The best, worst airports for spring break travel

The cheapest flights, according to Hopper

The best spring deals

• Depart New York to Tampa for as low as $157.
• Depart New York to Ponce, Puerto Rico, for as low as $129.
• Depart New York to Charleston, South Carolina, for as low as $50.
• Depart Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for as low as $140.
• Depart Los Angeles to Salt Lake City for as low as $90.
• Depart Boston to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, for as low as $72.
• Depart Boston to San Juan, Puerto Rico, for as low as $173.
• Depart Chicago to Miami for as low as $66.
• Depart Chicago to Cancun, Mexico, for as low as $194.

The best summer deals

• Depart New York to Oranjestad, Aruba, for as low as $257.
• Depart New York to Nassau, the Bahamas, for as low as $239. 
• Depart Los Angeles to San Juan, Puerto Rico for as low as $380.
• Depart Los Angeles to Denver for as low as $110.
• Depart Boston to Orlando, Florida, for as low as $170.
• Depart Boston to Cancun, Mexico, for as low as $165.
• Depart Chicago to Denver for as low as $96. 
• Depart Chicago to Bogota, Colombia, for as low as $356.

The cheapest flights, according to Kayak 

The best deals between March and September:

• Depart New York to Atlanta for $215 on average.
• Depart New York to Charlotte, North Carolina, for $237 on average.
• Depart Boston to Philadelphia for $155 on average.
• Depart Boston to Washington, D.C., for $222 on average.
• Depart Washington, D.C., to Atlanta for $207 on average.
• Depart Washington, D.C., to Boston for $210 on average.
• Depart Denver to Phoenix for $191 on average.
• Depart Denver to Chicago for $194 on average.

The cheapest flights, according to Expedia

The best spring deals:

• Depart New York to Detroit for $133 on average.
• Depart New York to Atlanta for $174 on average.
• Depart Los Angeles to Las Vegas for $85 on average.
• Depart Los Angeles to Phoenix for $179 on average.
• Depart San Francisco to Phoenix for $129 on average.
• Depart San Francisco to Seattle for $198 on average.
• Depart Atlanta to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for $132 on average.
• Depart Atlanta to Tampa, Florida, for $143 on average.

The best summer deals:

• Depart New York to Chicago for $200 on average.
• Depart New York to Tampa for $300 on average.
• Depart Los Angeles to San Francisco for $100 on average.
• Depart Los Angeles to Las Vegas for $100 on average.
• Depart San Francisco to Las Vegas for $100 on average.
• Depart San Francisco to San Diego for $150 on average.
• Depart Atlanta to Chicago for $150 on average.
• Depart Atlanta to Houston for $200 on average.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

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SpaceX is poised to make rocket launches 10 times cheaper with Starship, experts say

• With its recent Starship mission, SpaceX is poised to cut launch costs 10-fold, said an expert 
• The firm flew its flagship mega-rocket to space without exploding on Thursday for the first time. 
• Bringing down launch costs is crucial to open up space to industry. 

SpaceX's Starship launch on Thursday didn't only look cool . It may have marked a major turning point for the space industry.

Elon Musk's enormous mega-rocket , which didn't carry a payload or people, did not survive the landing on Thursday. But it did cruise through space and plummet back through Earth's atmosphere before exploding, a watershed moment for SpaceX, 22 years to the day after it was founded.

The rapid progress of the Starship-Super Heavy launch system's development offers high hopes the 400-foot-tall behemoth will be fully functional — and fully reusable — very soon.

The mega-rocket is key to Elon Musk's ambition to bring costs down to about $10 million per launch , a crucial move for those vying to set up their futuristic industries in space like asteroid mining, or space factories.

"With Starship, SpaceX is poised to slash launch costs by an order of magnitude again," Brendan Rosseau, a teaching fellow at Harvard Business School writing a book about the space industry, told Business Insider in an email on Thursday.

Liftoff of Starship! pic.twitter.com/FaNcasuKaq — SpaceX (@SpaceX) March 14, 2024

SpaceX has already shaved launch costs down

Starship-Super Heavy is the biggest launch system ever developed. The Super Heavy booster that hauls Starship up to space can produce twice as much thrust as the rockets that sent Apollo astronauts to the moon.

When fully developed, it should be able to launch as much as 150 metric tonnes to orbit.

That's a lot of cargo. By comparison, SpaceX's workhorse, Falcon 9, carries around 50,000 pounds to low-Earth orbit on each launch.

That offers substantial economies of scale, as more payload could go on each launch.

But it also helps firms put considerably less money into prepping their payload.

"For the history of spaceflight, the way you get your payload onto a rocket is you shrink it. And when you shrink it, you just spend a lot of money to shrink your technology," Abhi Tripathi, director of Mission Operations at the University of California Berkeley's Space Sciences Laboratory, told BI Friday.

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"Starship offers you the ability to reverse that equation. It offers you the ability to use cruder technology. Don't waste time shrinking and miniaturizing your thing, use something off the shelf," he said.

An enormous launcher you could use again and again

SpaceX isn't only betting on the rocket's enormous capacity to shave costs. Its main gamble is making the 400-foot tall mega-rocket fully reusable.

Think about how much a plane ride might cost if the airline had to build a new plane every time. That's how most of the launch industry handles rockets.

Reusability offers huge opportunities to cut the bill. And this isn't a stab in the dark — SpaceX has already proved the business model works with Falcon 9.

The midsize rocket's booster doesn't get discarded. Instead, after each launch, it lands to fly another day. With this technology, SpaceX was able to offer cheap and quick turnaround launches at around $67 million per flight.

That's about $1,500 per pound of payload. By comparison, the Space Shuttle charged about $25,000 per pound up to 2011.

Starship's promise is to fully reuse both stages, indefinitely.

This could change everything.

"They are demonstrating that they are right on track to get to where they want to be in an amazingly short period of time," George Nield, former associate administrator of the FAA's Office of Commercial Space Transportation, told BI.

"This vehicle is so different, and it's so much more capable than anything that anybody has ever tried to do. I think folks are not necessarily appreciating that," said Nield.

A way to go, but the end is near

With these advances, business plans for space industries — like manufacturing products at scale in the vacuum of space or mining rare minerals on asteroids — could gain more traction among backers.

"Those high costs significantly limited the scope of space activities, constraining who could use space, how they used space, and who could benefit," Harvard's Rosseau said.

"Lowering launch costs has always been the first step to unlocking broader, deeper sources of value from space," he said.

SpaceX is poised to plow ahead after Thursday's success. Still, there's work to do before industries can pop their payload on Starship at low cost.

As part of Musk's equation, SpaceX needs Starship and its booster to be fully reusable. This wasn't attempted on Wednesday, and booster and ship were lost on re-entry.

Tripathi predicts they are not too far off, however. He thinks SpaceX could try to deliver Starlink satellites on Starship's next test launch.

For reusability, "I think this test showed they probably have another test or two to go," he said.

"I think the smart people have already been planning as if Starship will be successful. Certainly, the ones that were on the fence may have started to come off the fence as of the test [on Thursday]," Tripathi said.

Watch: What happens when Elon Musk moves markets with a tweet

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