10 Ways to Save Money on Summer Vacation

Plan an epic vacation (for less!)

Summer travel expenses have a way of adding up fast. An extra fee here, an unexpectedly pricey meal there, and suddenly, there went your budget. If you’re looking for ways to dial back the spending while still having an amazing time, we’ve got you. These easy strategies will help you save money on summer vacation while still making the most of every moment.

• 1. Fly on the right day of the week

  Everyone wants to head out Friday night and come home Sunday. If your days are flexible, you’ll often find cheaper fares if you fly midweek. Compare costs and play with dates to get the best price. Even shifting just one of your flights can bring considerable savings.

• 2. Skip the peak vacation weeks

  Sure, booking your vacay over a holiday weekend means you can use fewer PTO days. But you’re not the only one thinking that way. Those weeks tend to be more crowded. And crowded = expensive. If you don’t have kids, the weeks before or after summer vacation offer lower prices while still delivering awesome weather.

• 3. Go off the beaten path

  Vacation hotspots often raise prices during the summer months. Skip popular cities like Austin, San Diego, and Orlando in favor of more affordable destinations. With plenty to do, fewer crowds, and cheaper hotels, meals, and activities, it’s a fun way to discover a new favorite city… and save money on summer vacation!

• 4. Stay outside the tourist center

  A neighborhood just outside of downtown or off the beach can make a big difference in hotel costs. At the beach, a hotel or Airbnb with a short walk to the beach (instead of on the sand) can be way less expensive. And in places like New York City, the subway makes it easy to get everywhere you need to be.

• 5. Split an Airbnb

  Traveling with friends or extended family? Instead of booking individual hotel rooms, pool your resources and rent an Airbnb. Use the kitchen to cook inexpensive meals. Open a bottle of wine (or two!) in the living room instead of hitting the bars. Sharing expenses is a great way to save money on summer vacation while spending more quality time together.

• 6. Live like a local

  Splurge on those once-in-a-lifetime bucket list moments. But the rest of the time, try to live like the locals do. Eat at mom-n-pop restaurants or cafes. Use public transportation. Skip the souvenir shopping. You’ll save money on summer vacation, while also enjoying the true local flavor of your destination.

• 7. Bring the essentials from home

  Shopping is more expensive in tourist areas. Save money on summer vacation by bringing things like toiletries, over-the-counter medications, and even sunscreen from home. If you’re traveling with kids, you can pick up beach toys at your local dollar store for way less than at your hotel.

• 8. Book attractions before you leave

  Many museums and other attractions offer online discounts or special prices for timed entries. Book them at home for some potential savings. On popular tour sites like Viator or GetYourGuide, the less expensive options often sell out first. Book early to avoid paying extra.

• 9. Build a flexible itinerary

  Pre-planning every activity is a good way to ensure you see it all. But it often means overspending, and ending your days exhausted. Leaving a few open blocks in your schedule lets you enjoy happy hours, last-minute deals, and free community events.

• 10. Keep an eye on hidden fees

  The cheap flight that doesn’t include seat selections or luggage, the hotel deals with a nightly destination charge. Some of those “too good to be true” prices come with unexpected fees and charges. Read the small print, and the reviews to be sure what you’re getting.

• Bonus: ship your luggage

  One of the easiest ways to save money on summer vacation? Skip the baggage fees altogether. For less than the cost of the average checked bag, ship your vacation gear to your hotel or Airbnb with LugLess. No extra costs, no hauling bags through the airport. Just easy, breezy travel days!

  Is it possible to save money and still have an amazing vacation? You bet! These strategies will help you stretch your travel budget while still enjoying the experiences that make a summer getaway unforgettable.