Traveling the world doesn’t have to break the bank – especially if you know a few tricks to save on flights, accommodation, and even pet care.
Planning the trip of a lifetime? Whether you’re backpacking through Europe or exploring the world through pet sitting, these travel tips will keep you savvy and stress-free while making the most of your adventure.
Snag the best flight deals
Want to score the best deal before your trip even begins? Check out this advice for flying affordably:
- Be flexible: Midweek flights tend to be cheaper than those over the weekend.
- Set up price alerts: Platforms like Skyscanner let you track fares so you can book when prices are lowest.
- Try the new DROPS feature in the Skyscanner app to see flights that have dropped by at least 20% from your local airport.
- Consider alternate routes: Flying into a nearby airport and taking a bus or train to your destination can be more affordable.
- Use the “Everywhere” search on Skyscanner for inspo if you're open to any destination.
Get travel insurance (and check the T&Cs)
Not all travel insurance is created equal, so make sure you’re covered for what you need – some policies don’t include activities like skiing or scuba diving. It might seem like an extra expense, but you’ll be glad to have it if things don’t go to plan.
Plan pet care in advance
Traveling with pets isn’t always possible, but finding care doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. With TrustedHousesitters, pet parents can connect with trusted, verified sitters who offer loving, in-home care – keeping pets happy and safe in their familiar surroundings. It’s one of the best travel tips for pet parents, helping them save money while ensuring peace of mind whenever they leave home.
Trending posts
Purr-use some of the top blogs our members have been loving this month- Top male dog names for your new furry friendGot a new furry family member in your pack? Check…
- Top female dog names for your new fluffy palWelcoming a new pooch into your family? Explore…
- 250+ gray cat names your silver feline will loveRecently welcomed a fluffy gray bundle of joy into…
- What are normal pet sitting rates?Discover the average pet sitting rates for animals…
- Unique dog names to stand out from the packDare to be different with our list of the best…
See how much you could save
Try house and pet sitting
House and pet sitting allows you to visit incredible places you might never have considered, all while staying in unique homes and caring for the adorable pets who live there. It’s also one of the most inexpensive ways to travel as you’ll save money on accommodation.
✔️ Explore destinations beyond the usual tourist attractions.
✔️ Stay in real homes and experience local life.
✔️ Enjoy the company of pets.
Pack light
No one wants to drag a giant suitcase over cobblestones! Bringing just hand luggage makes traveling easy and budget-friendly. With these tips for trip prep, you’ll be packing like a pro.
Top travel packing tips for vacation:
- Pack light and roll your clothes to save space.
- Choose versatile, comfy outfits suited for the climate and local customs.
- Bring must-haves for the first few days, including prescription meds, chargers, adaptors, underwear, a travel towel, a power bank, earplugs, and an eye mask.
- You’ll be able to get lots of your daily essentials – like toiletries – locally, so if you’re struggling for space, just buy them when you arrive.
Live like a local
Okay, so you end up bagging a house sit right in the middle of Rome. The ideal starting point for traveling Europe, right? Remember, this is where all the other tourists are staying, so it’s worth wandering a few blocks away from the main attractions to find more affordable (and often better!) restaurants, cafes, and markets.
Be flexible while you’re there
Being flexible with your dates and destination can save you money, but it’s also important to avoid getting too tied down once you arrive – especially for long-term travel. It’s a good idea to plan your first few nights and pre-book tickets to some of the main attractions to take advantage of lower prices, but be careful not to over-plan your trip. A single chat with a local about how to travel in their country could change your whole perspective.
Go green where possible
Trains and buses are often the most budget-friendly way to travel – and they’re a great way to travel consciously, especially when hopping between smaller European countries or going cross-country. If you do need to fly, check platforms like Skyscanner for flights with lower carbon emissions.
Cheaper isn’t always better
Buy cheap, buy twice, or so the saying goes. While this isn’t always the case, sometimes it’s worth spending a little extra to get better value. When booking a tour, check what’s included and ask yourself – does the price really match the experience? A few smart touring tips can help you avoid deals that sound too good to be true!
Learn a bit of the language
You don’t need to be fluent, but having a few key phrases up your sleeve can make all the difference. Locals appreciate the effort, and it might just lead you to hidden gems you wouldn’t find in typical tourist tips – like where to find the best street food.
Save while you sleep
Take overnight buses or trains to save on accommodation – if you’re a good night sleeper! Pack earplugs, an eye mask, and a travel pillow to make the journey more comfortable.
Be smart with your money
- Bring multiple cards and store them separately: That way, losing one to a pickpocket, a faulty ATM, or a forgetful moment at a restaurant won’t ruin your trip (just remember to cancel it ASAP).
- Choose the right credit card: Some have high fees and terrible exchange rates, so do your research before you go.
- Bring some local currency: Airport ATMs tend to be pricey, and you don’t want to be a few euros short for the bus into town.
Cook at home
If you’re house and pet sitting, make the most of having a kitchen! Try a local cooking class to learn new flavors or have a mooch around the market for fresh ingredients and whip up something delicious at home. It can be just as fun as eating out, and way more budget-friendly.
Enjoy the trip!
Don’t get too bogged down with tips for travelers who want to save a pretty penny – while it’s a good idea to be sensible about where you spend your money, this might be a once-in-a-lifetime trip and you don’t want to miss out on something because of a few euros.
Top 14 travel tips - FAQs
Traveling the world safely involves staying aware of your surroundings, exploring during daylight hours, and avoiding displays of wealth like expensive accessories or cameras. Keep belongings secure, be vigilant in crowded areas, and if you’re heading out for the night, make sure you bring a buddy or let your accommodation know where you’re going.
Carry only a small amount of cash and keep the rest locked in a safe. When carrying larger sums, split the cash into various hard-to-reach sections of your bag and keep an eye on your belongings.
Passport validity requirements depend on the country of issue and your destination. In order to enter most countries, including Europe, US passport holders need at least six months of validity. British passport holders need three months beyond their return date for Schengen countries, while six months is recommended for entry to the US to avoid any issues.
This was correct at the time of posting, but please check Travel.State.Gov (US) and Gov.uk (UK) for the most up-to-date information before traveling.
You’ll find your passport’s expiry date on the data page, just below the date of issue. Before you pack your bags, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your return date to avoid entry issues.
Use comparison websites to find the best deals on travel insurance. Enter your details, choose your coverage level, and review the terms carefully before purchasing – T&Cs can be confusing so make sure the policy covers everything you need.
Prevent travel sickness by taking motion sickness tablets before travel, using anti-nausea wristbands, or trying natural remedies like ginger and peppermint. Motion sickness glasses can also help reduce symptoms.
The cost of six months of travel depends on your destination and travel style. Budget backpacking in Southeast Asia can cost as little as $5,000–$7,000, while luxury travel in Europe may exceed $20,000. You might be able to travel for longer by opting for more budget-friendly destinations.
