Travel isn’t about how much you spend. It’s about the memories you collect, the people you meet, and the stories you bring home. The good news? You don’t need a luxury budget to make your trips unforgettable.
With a little planning and some smart choices, you can see more of the world while spending less.
Here are six simple tips to help you travel farther without stretching your wallet too thin.
1. Start with the type of trip, not just the destination
Do you dream of dune bashing in the desert? Or spending the day shopping in Parisian boutiques? Instead of locking in a city, think of the experience first.
If you’re looking for…
- Architecture & artsy vibes: Budapest, Prague, and Lisbon are good alternatives to Paris.
- Festivals & culture: Porto is known for its wine culture and music festivals.
- Historic charm: Tallinn’s cobblestone old town will transport you back in time, or Bruges’ storybook canals will make you feel like you’re in a fairytale.
- Off-the-beaten-path adventure: Consider Tbilisi, Georgia, for mountains, wine, and affordability, or Sarajevo, Bosnia, for a blend of cultures, history, and incredible food.
By choosing the type of trip first, you’ll discover destinations that are just as inspiring, but often much easier on the budget.
2. Get creative with accommodations
Your stay is one of the biggest budget factors. Luckily, there are plenty of options:
- Short-term rentals: Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com are great, but booking directly with property managers can be cheaper.
- Budget-friendly stays: Try hostels, guesthouses, or even home exchanges.
- Hotels: If that’s your preference, compare prices and look outside tourist hot spots.
3. Plan ahead
A little organization goes a long way.
- Book flights and hotels early for lower prices.
- Lock in tickets for activities in advance to avoid last-minute markups.
- Travel outside of peak season to save on airfare and accommodation.
4. Use technology to your advantage
Your smartphone can be your best travel companion. Use apps to find the best deals on flights, accommodations, and activities.
- Flights: Skyscanner and Hopper help you track and book flights at the best times.
- Transport: Explore local transit apps instead of relying on Uber.
- Organization: TripIt keeps all your bookings and plans in one neat place.
Pro tip: The Faye app recommends the best local apps in your destination.
5. Pack smarter, not heavier
Overpacking can cost you in baggage fees. Instead, pack strategically:
- Leave bulky toiletries at home; you can buy basics locally.
- Wear heavy items (boots, coats) on the plane.
- Make a packing list to avoid buying forgotten essentials on the road.
- Try the 1-2-3-4-5-6 rule: 1 hat • 2 pairs of shoes • 3 bottoms • 4 tops • 5 pairs of socks • 6 pairs of underwear.
Need help with packing light? Check out our carry-on packing list.
6. Don’t skip travel insurance
It may feel like an extra cost, but insurance is your safety net. It protects you against:
- Medical emergencies
- Trip cancellations or delays
- Lost or stolen belongings
- And so much more
Think of it as peace of mind that lets you focus on making memories instead of worrying about what-ifs.
That’s where Faye comes in. Our whole-trip travel insurance is designed to be simple, fast, and supportive with 24/7 real human help when you need it most. Whether it’s a missed flight, a sudden illness, or a stolen bag, Faye helps keep your trip on track.
Going big on a budget
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean compromising. With these six strategies, you can explore the world, stretch your dollars, and still enjoy every moment.
Your next adventure is waiting, and it doesn’t have to break the bank.
Faye is not affiliated with or endorsed by the third-party websites or apps mentioned in this post. These references are provided solely for informational purposes.
