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I always try to use my money wisely. Since the lean early years of our marriage, El Carino and I have made a habit of budget travel. From all-inclusive stays at a Canadian resort (back when the exchange rate favored U.S. visitors) to road trips to Vegas with $39 rooms, we take the bargain route. Over the years we’ve visited Mexico, Europe, South America, Canada, and the U.S., and we’ve picked up a few tips for traveling cheaply.
This year we’re heading to Las Vegas with our daughter and my mom for four days and three nights. Room and airfare for the four of us cost $1,100 — $275 per person. We’ll still need to eat and have fun, but here are the ways we’ll keep expenses low. I’ll share trip details when we return; for now, some practical tips:
– Book a room that includes breakfast and eat a big breakfast to carry you through the day. If you’re feeling bold, take a sandwich from the buffet for a later snack.
– If breakfast isn’t included, stop at a grocery store. Juice, cereal, fruit, and muffins are much cheaper there than at a restaurant.
– Make your main meal at lunch by choosing a buffet or midday dining — lunch is usually cheaper than dinner.
– Keep dinner light. After a large lunch, soup and a salad will be enough and save money.
– These tips work beyond Vegas. Last summer we drove across the country on the cheap and visited Mt. Rushmore, Zion Canyon, Yosemite, and more.
– For drinks, buy a bottle and mixers to enjoy in the room, or visit bars during happy hour and stick with house drinks instead of pricier cocktails.
– Choose a room with a refrigerator so you can store leftovers and snacks.
– At upscale restaurants, share an entrée and add a soup or salad to split.
– Many hotels offer free lounge shows; check what’s available where you’re staying.
– Sit at a sidewalk café, order a light snack or appetizer, and enjoy people-watching.
– Traveling with kids? Look for museums with free days or reciprocity with your hometown museum, and join included activities like crafts or science demos.
– Free summer festivals and outdoor concerts are everywhere; check local newspapers and websites for schedules, bring a picnic, and enjoy the entertainment.
– Hiking and exploring local parks is a low-cost family activity. If you have seniors with you, see if they have a national park lifetime pass you can use.
– Consider a train trip for a different, often affordable family experience.
– Explore destinations close to home to cut travel costs—many regions have great parks and local resorts.
– Watch airfares by setting up price alerts. When a low fare appears, book quickly before it rises.
– For adventurous travelers, camping or renting a cabin can be very affordable.
We’ll recap our Las Vegas trip when we return. What are your favorite cheap vacation tips?
