Travel on a Budget? Always. Here’s How to Save Big Without Sacrificing the Fun
We love a holiday. We love the planning. We love the packing. But what we don’t love? Realising we could’ve saved $500 on the exact same trip if we’d just booked a bit earlier (or a bit smarter).
So if you’re dreaming of a getaway but want to do it without draining your bank account, here are our favourite She’s on the Money-approved travel hacks to save money… and stress.
🗓️ 1. Book Flights Early (But Not Too Early)
Timing is everything. Here’s the sweet spot:
Domestic flights: Book around 2–3 months in advance
International flights: Book around 4–6 months in advance
Anything too far out and prices can be inflated. Too close, and you’re at the mercy of last-minute pricing. Google Flights, Hopper and Skyscanner are your besties here — turn on price alerts and let the deals come to you.
🧳 2. Be Flexible With Your Travel Dates
Flying midweek (think Tuesday or Wednesday) is almost always cheaper than weekends. And flying out super early in the morning or late at night? Also cheaper.
If you’re booking accommodation, shifting your trip by even one day can slash your total spend — especially if you avoid peak holiday weekends.
🏨 3. Don’t Book Accommodation Blind — Call and Ask
Here’s a sneaky one: hotels often offer better deals when you call directly rather than booking through third-party sites.
They might offer:
A lower rate (since they don’t have to pay commission)
Free upgrades
Late checkout
Free parking or breakfast
It takes five minutes and could save you hundreds.
🪪 4. Look for Free or Discounted Experiences
Sightseeing doesn’t have to be expensive:
Many museums and galleries have free days
Walking tours (especially local or self-guided ones) are often donation-based
City tourism sites often bundle passes for big attractions at a discount
Bonus hack: Follow creators or bloggers who’ve already been to your destination. They often share hidden gems and free experiences that won’t be on the top of Google.
🥐 5. Book Accommodation With a Kitchen (and Use It)
You don’t need to cook every meal, but grabbing groceries and doing breakfast or lunch at “home” can save a heap. Plus, it makes room in the budget for a nicer dinner out.
Especially in Europe, where a hotel breakfast can cost you €25 for a croissant and filter coffee? Yeah… no.
📱 6. Skip the Roaming Charges
International roaming can cost a fortune. Instead:
Get a local SIM when you land
Use an eSIM like Airalo or Holafly (read about our experience travelling with an eSim here)
Download maps, travel guides and translation apps in advance
A little prep = a lot less stress (and money) once you’re overseas.
🎒 7. Travel Light to Avoid Baggage Fees
If you can avoid checked luggage, do it. Airlines are charging more than ever, and half the time you don’t need the extra stuff.
Pack smart, roll your clothes, wear your bulkiest items on the plane, and make use of laundry facilities if you’re away for a while.
The Bottom Line?
You don’t need a trust fund to travel well. With a little planning, flexibility, and confidence to ask for a better deal, you can take your dream holiday and still stick to your savings goals.
Book smart. Spend mindfully. And remember — the best travel memories don’t come with a credit card statement full of regrets.
Want more tips of how to Budget for your Dream Travels…
***Please remember our blogs aren’t intended as financial advice - they’re intended only as a starting point to give you a little extra info! For more in-depth advice catered to your personal financial position, please see a certified financial advisor.