18 useful tips for saving money on vacation

If you're really looking to save cash on vacation, the first step is setting a budget. Figure out how much you can reasonably afford to spend on your trip, and stick to it. Don't forget to add in a little cushion for unexpected expenses or emergencies. 

Airline tickets and hotel rooms tend to be cheaper when booked well in advance, especially in very popular destinations. Start scoping out prices as far in advance as possible, but at least 3-4 months before you plan to travel. 

If your travel plans are refundable, keep an eye out for flash deals from airlines and hotels at your destination in the months between booking and traveling. Sometimes, you might find a cheaper rate or save a ton of cash on a flight by rebooking. 

If you're not the planning type, it's also totally possible to score last-minute vacation deals. Check out sites like Expedia and HotelTonight for last-minute travel to destinations all over the world, sometimes deeply discounted. 

Google Flights is an excellent resource for travelers planning to fly, as it shows what the best fare for a given destination is on every day of the week. If you have a little bit of flexibility in your schedule, plan your trip accordingly to score the cheapest flights. 

Even if you don't have a bunch of cash to spend on expensive tourist attractions, most destinations are replete with free tours, exhibits, and other cheap events. Check out your destination's local tourism board for ideas, and browse local papers for free and cheap events taking place while you're on vacation. 

Whether you're heading to the beach or looking to hike through the mountains, spending time outdoors can be one of the most affordable ways to vacation. Find a campsite on the cheap, or score a national park (or state park) pass for around $20 to explore the local flora and fauna on your trip. 

Checked bag fees can be pricey, and most of us tend to over-pack anyway. Consider sticking to carry-on luggage for your vacation, and only pack the essentials. Your personal item, like a backpack, can also be used as a spot to pack anything that doesn't fit in your suitcase. 

High gas prices are a real bummer when you're planning a road trip, but an app like GasBuddy or Gas Guru can help you find the cheapest price per gallon wherever you're at. Use the app to plan your fuel-up stops and watch the saved cash add up. 

Tourist traps are notoriously expensive, but staying off-the-beaten-path can be a great way to save money and have a better vacation at the same time. Look for spots frequented by locals in your destination, or ask around on travel forums for the best low-key activities. 

Trips to the souvenir shop can add up quickly, and that often means bringing home a bunch of tchotchkes that you don't even really like. Set a budget for one or two souvenirs, perhaps something you can use for years, like a Christmas ornament commemorating your vacation or a fun piece of decor that actually fits into your home's aesthetic. 

If your destination has robust public transit, take advantage of it! Traveling by bus or train is much cheaper than taxis or rideshare and definitely more affordable than renting a car. 

Going out to eat for every meal can really add a ton of cost to a vacation, and that expense can be significantly minimized with one trip to a grocery store once you arrive. Stocking up on snacks is a great way to save, as is cooking a few meals at home if you're staying in an Airbnb or hotel with a kitchenette. 

Nowhere are snacks and other necessities more expensive than at the airport, so it's best to pack those ahead of time. The same is true for other essentials, like over-the-counter medications. 

Staying in the epicenter of a tourist destination can tack hundreds of dollars onto your lodging costs, but finding a hotel or rental cabin even just a few miles away can mean for major savings. Even if you have to walk a little more or take a bus, it's worth scoping out spots just a short distance away. 

This tip can be tricky, as credit card interest is anything but budget-friendly, but travel credit cards can help you save major cash on airfare, hotels, and even activities once you arrive at your destination. Check your card provider's rewards portal for more details. 

Travel credit cards can also help you save cash on future vacations. Consider making your purchases while on vacation on a credit card that offers bonus points at places like restaurants, but plan to pay your vacation off in full by the time your statement arrives to avoid any additional interest charges.  

If shopping is one of your favorite things on vacation, consider going vintage or hitting a local thrift store. You'll likely find more interesting goods, like antique souvenirs or vintage fashion, and save a few bucks in the process.