Traveling on a Budget

The number one question I get asked when it comes to my lifestyle is “How can you afford it?”. My answer is always this…because it’s a priority. When you are passionate about something, you make it work. However, traveling can get super expensive, especially in a recession. I started traveling in my twenties and quickly learned how to improvise and think outside of the box, or there was no way I’d be able to afford it. I’ve put together some of the tips I’ve learned along the way for you to save money when you're planning your next adventure!

The middle of Nowhere, Montana

Seriously, I had no idea where I was…one instance of many from my summer 2022 cross country road trip!

First things first, how will you get there? If you’re short on time then flying is probably the most practical option. But if you have the extra days, think about taking a road trip. It’s usually cheaper than a plane ticket and will also save you money from having to get a rental car. Downloading apps like GasBuddy and Upside to find the cheapest gas in your area and to even get cash back rewards are a lifesaver! I’m a huge advocate of road tripping because the traveling is half the fun. It’s always a bonus when you get to see new places on the way to your destination. If you have to fly, check with budget airlines such as Allegiant Air or JetBlue. It may also be worth looking into a rewards credit card with the airline (watch for membership fees). Many offer a ton of points you can use towards your flight. Eating before you get to the airport is also an easy way to save money. We all know how much that burger and fries are going to cost you at the airport. I also create rewards accounts for rental cars as well. Turo is another great option for rental cars. Think Airbnb, but for vehicles!

Is flying really worth it?

Think about taking a road trip instead. You usually spend all day at the airport anyhow.

Now that you know how you’ll be getting there, you’ll need to figure out where to sleep. This depends solely on your comfort level. If you want to fork out the money for a luxury hotel or lodge, then go for it! But if you’re like me and want to go as cheap as possible, then it’s time to think outside of the box. I totally get that camping and roughing it isn’t for everyone but hear me out! If you are comfortable with sleeping in a tent but don’t want to miss out on the luxuries of restrooms or hot showers, look for campgrounds that have shower houses. Super important to read reviews on these! The last thing you want is to get to camp after driving or hiking all day only to find a gross bathhouse…trust me, I’ve been there. Many of these campgrounds also offer something called camping cabins for those who are afraid of sleeping in a tent. Camping cabins are budget friendly cabins that usually offer only a bed for you to sleep in safely. You can find these places on Google, Airbnb, Hipcamp, Tentr and, my favorite, Campendium. Another option is car camping. This is my go to when I travel. I’m fortunate enough to have a pretty rad 4Runner that will fit a full size mattress when the seats are laid down. You can be safe from wildlife, bugs and people. Remember to lock your doors!

Ever heard of camping cabins?

Here’s one in the Grand Tetons that was very affordable compared to hotels in the area.

Ok, we’ve got transportation and lodging figured out but what are we going to eat?? This is usually where most people get in trouble. After a day full of activities, we all want to sit down to a nice, hot meal that someone else prepared and are usually willing to pay for it. But you can save a ton just from doing a little planning ahead of time. Limiting dining out to just one meal a day can save you more than you might think. If you’re driving, think about packing an ice chest and eating sandwiches for lunch. Packing dry foods like granola bars and fruit for breakfast is always quick and easy. Of course, don’t forget the snacks! My list is always jerky, chips, cookies and nuts. If you flew to your destination, take time to make a trip to a local grocery store and stock up on some items. When it comes to dinner, hop on google and search for local restaurants. Take a few minutes to check out their menu online so you can be prepared and choose a restaurant based on your budget. If you want to take it a step further, get yourself a good old camp stove and cook your own dinner. For some reason, camp meals next to a camp fire are always the best!

Who needs restaurants?

Think about cooking your own meals, even if you’re in the middle of the woods.

We’ve got all the basics covered, transportation, shelter and food. Here’s the fun stuff. What are you going to spend all day doing?? Before you leave for your trip, take some time to figure out what’s important to you. Generally speaking, the outdoors are free to experience. If you like museums and art, look for visitor centers in the area that offer exhibits and some local history about where you’re visiting. If you like nature, take a hike through the woods! Just want to sightsee? Hop on trip advisor to find the local area attractions that you shouldn’t miss! Check websites and welcome centers for coupons and think about investing in a National Park Pass if you plan to visit national and state parks. If shopping is your thing, check out a local farmers market where you can find really great deals on fresh produce and handmade crafts. That being said, if you want to splurge on your vacay, I get it. And this is where I would do it! You’re only on this vacation once and you want to make the most of it. Chances are, you won’t remember that really expensive meal or the fancy hotel room. What you’re going to remember is the experiences you had on your trip. So if you want to pay to raft down the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon, do it. If you want to pay for a helicopter ride over Glacier, do it. If you want to pay for a cold, dark cave tour in Carlsbad Caverns, do it. The money comes and goes but those memories will last you a lifetime!

You know one of my favorite things about hiking?

It’s free! There’s tons of activities that don’t cost you a thing except your time.

Of course, traveling will always cost you something, but if you’re smart about your planning you can make it happen. Ask yourself, in five years, are you going to wish you had taken that trip you talked yourself out of because you couldn’t afford it? Will you remember your $5 Starbucks coffee you get most mornings or that designer handbag you just had to have when you look back on life, or would you rather remember seeing the world and the experiences you gained while doing it?