A lot of people will tell you that traveling is one of their favorite things to do. Some like to explore the world and visit a new place each time. Others find their favorite spot and love to go back over the years, creating new memories each time. Then, there’s the road warrior who just wants to get on the highway to see where the road will take them.
The experienced traveler knows how to plan, budget, use credit cards for points to save, and even get trips for free. Regardless, traveling is an investment, and the wise traveler learns how to save so they can have more adventures in the future to satisfy their wanderlust.
There are many ways to save money while traveling. The savvy traveler soon learns that booking flights and accommodations at the right time and staying on top of the latest budget travel tips are essential. Developing healthy travel habits enables you to focus on your adventure, have better experiences, and save money in the process. And if you can be a little flexible with your travel plans, you can save even more.
Be flexible with flights
Flight prices can change drastically over the course of the year. Generally, they tend to peak around holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, as well as for spring break and over the summer. You might think that you can’t save during these times, but you can if you book at the right time.
Travel insiders will tell you that flight prices tend to be lower if you book on a Tuesday or Wednesday, making them the more affordable days to fly since many people travel on the weekend. Of course, this may depend on which day a major holiday falls on. And it may not be fun to take that early morning flight or a “red-eye” (a flight that leaves late and arrives the next morning), but these can get you a lower fare.
Use a flight comparison tool like Google Flights or travel services to compare flights and airlines. A note of caution: if you use a travel service or travel clearinghouse, make sure you check for fees and cancelation costs and know the terms before you book. And to ensure you book at the best times, set reminders on your phone so you don’t miss your window.
Save on transportation and accommodations
While taxis, rideshares, and car rentals are a convenient way to get around a new city, they can get expensive. Instead, consider public transportation like trains or buses. Walking or biking as much as possible can save you a lot of money on transportation. Not only can you see more sights and soak up more of the local culture, but you’ll also enjoy fresh air and some great exercise.
For where you’ll stay, check out lower-cost options like hostels and vacation rentals. You might also find a great bundle deal through your credit card, airline, or booking service. And if your workplace offers employee perks, you may also save by booking through your employer.
During your travels, you’ll likely need wireless connectivity. There are several ways to make that more affordable, too.
Stay connected with wireless coverage
When traveling, your phone is likely going to be your best companion. You need a reliable, secure wireless plan for your connection. To make sure that you have coverage, research your connectivity options at your destination ahead of time. Other options to supplement your wireless connectivity to keep in mind are a standalone mobile hotspot or wireless broadband. If you need boosted wireless performance, enhanced wireless connectivity is a great option for improved real-time responsiveness, reliable video chat, and smoother mobile gameplay.
If you’re traveling outside of the U.S., you’ll save money when you avoid roaming charges. Weigh your options for how to use your cell phone internationally.
For example, AT&T Wireless customers can add AT&T International Day Pass for unlimited data, talk, and texting across more than 210 global destinations for one low price on land and sea. It’s $12 per day for a single line and $6 for each additional line used on the same calendar day. If your trip includes a cruise, you’ll pay $20 a day to cover you for land and sea. Plus, you only pay for the days you use.
In addition to your connectivity, it’s good to remember that not protecting your mobile security can result in costly, unintended expenses. So, you need to secure your devices and the data on those devices as well.
Keep your data secure while traveling
Public Wi-Fi networks are notoriously vulnerable to hackers. Your data—including passwords, emails, credit card information, and more—can easily be intercepted. For example, security experts often advise that if you can avoid it, don’t charge your mobile devices in the USB ports at airports.1
Choosing a wireless plan that includes mobile device security is your first line of defense. It’s also important to make sure your device is using its latest operating system so security patches are installed. Back up your mobile data to the cloud before you travel. Lastly, to enhance security, you can use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to provide more privacy by hiding your identity and location.
Saving money while traveling is possible when you prepare. Research your options, plan ahead, secure your connectivity and devices, and when possible, be flexible with your travel options. Doing so not only helps you have a great, possibly stress-free experience, but you can save enough to have more travel adventures in the future.
1Chris Morris, “Don’t charge your phone at USB ports, warns the TSA, Fortune.com, June 3, 2025, https://fortune.com/2025/06/03/dont-charge-phone-airport-usb-ports-tsa-warning/.
