Sometimes opting for a cheap vacation isn't so relaxing. Cue stressful airport scenes, crowds of hurried tourists, and worn-out accommodations. Luckily, there are some tricks to make a cheap vacation feel more luxurious—so you'll come home feeling more rested and less like you need a vacation from your vacation. Read on.
1. Go in the off-season
Traveling to swanky international destinations during less popular months—Tokyo in June or Santorini in November, for example—could make for a cheap vacation, saving you considerably on airfare, hotels, and activities. You'll roll the dice on weather conditions (Tokyo can be rainy and Santorini might be cold), but you'll beat the crowds, which could make for a more enjoyable trip on a budget. Some months could net you off-season pricing within the US too. Taking a trip in September or October, when most kids are back in school, could save you about 30% on roundtrip domestic airfare and hotel rooms compared with going in peak summer months.1
2. ... or when things are free or discounted
Some big cities like Philadelphia and Los Angeles offer free entry to a variety of museums on certain days of the month or the year to keep a cheap vacation fun. Others, like New York City, host Restaurant Week or Broadway Week where affordability is on the menu at popular eateries and show tickets are 2 for 1. Try searching for free activities when you first start planning and then book your flights and accommodations around them.
3. Dupe your destination
A "dupe" is a product that looks like a pricier version but costs less, and the concept applies to travel destinations as well. For instance, you might be able to get the feel of Italy in Croatia, or Seoul, South Korea, in Taipei, Taiwan—typically for less. Or get Nashville's musical vibes on a smaller budget in Memphis, Tennessee, where you can still get delicious southern food...on the way to touring Graceland.
4. Start your trip in an airport lounge
If you have a credit card that gets you into an airport lounge (or your travel companion does), use it. You could get free snacks, drinks, and even a meal while waiting for your flight. And you'll dine in a much cushier space than seats by the gate. Traveling with a group? Plan ahead to see how many guests your card lets you bring in.
5. Stay outside the touristy area
If you don't mind a walk or transit ride, consider a hotel outside of the city center and away from popular destinations. A stay somewhere just as nice but a little off the beaten path could save you over $100 a night in some cases. You might also tap a travel agent for their expertise—they often have access to special deals at hotels and resorts that the public don't, and some won't charge you to use their services.
6. Grab a day pass
Want the feel of a luxe hotel without the price tag? Stay somewhere less expensive and buy a day pass to a hotel with great amenities like a pool, cabana, or spa. Some day passes, depending on where you're vacationing, start at just $25 with many in the under-$65 range.2 This might also be a good option for staycationers.
7. Have a special lunch instead of dinner
That fancy restaurant you've been eyeing for dinner might have a lunch menu with the same dishes for a lot cheaper. And with jet lag, lunch might match up better with your eating schedule anyway. Ask the locals where they eat—they might point you to a lesser-known place with a menu that isn't price-inflated for tourists. These 10 ways to go out to eat for cheap could also help trim dining bills.
8. Buy souvenirs online
Window shop for treasures and then check if you can buy them online and have them shipped home. You'll save precious luggage space and might get items for less. Sure, this doesn't work for the beautiful one-of-a-kind hairpin you spot in Paris, but it could come in handy for the specialty popcorn from Chicago you want to buy and share with family.
9. Get free views
Iconic skyscrapers might charge big bucks to reach high heights in their buildings. But you can often access similar views at rooftop bars and restaurants. Even better, if you're visiting a friend who works in a tall building in the city, they might be able to get you a guest pass to swing by. Similarly, touristy boat rides can drown you in charges, but there may be a commuter boat you can take for free or cheap and see the same sights (and feel the same breeze).
10. Take a tour for tips
A private guided tour in an air-conditioned van can cover a lot of ground—for a lot of dough. Instead, check out free walking tours in your destination. Art and architecture students and other locals are often willing to show groups around in exchange for tips, still a fraction of what you might pay a company. If you go at an odd time, like first thing in the morning or when everyone's eating lunch, it might wind up being a private tour.