How to Travel More in 2024: With Limited Time and Money
Wish you could find a way to travel more while working a full-time job and without your bank account screaming for mercy?
Well, you’re in the right place!
In this article, I’m not about to throw around vague tips or impractical advice. No, siree!
I’m rolling up my sleeves, getting into the nitty-gritty, and serving up a hearty dose of practical wisdom. Over the last five years, I’ve learned a lot about how to travel more, all while working a full-time job and without breaking the bank. Now, I want to share it all with you!
Step 1. Find your travel buddy for life. I married mine in Cappadocia Turkey!
Who wants to travel more? I DO!!
My Best Tips on How to Travel More
1. Prioritize Travel in Your Budget
To travel more, let’s face it, you’ll need more money. The amount depends on your travel style and budget.
So, step one: figure out how much you need and make saving money a priority!
Not sure where to start? I’ve got a whole article on creating a travel budget—it’s like having a piggy bank for your adventures.
Be savvy with your money by making small changes to your daily spending. Personally, I’ve swapped Starbucks for homemade brews and meal prep my own meals to avoid eating out for lunch. Even small changes like these can really add up!
I highly recommend opening a separate savings account just for your travel funds—it keeps things organized, and you can watch your travel fund grow. Also, make savings automatic by scheduling regular transfers. Treat it like a bill – no excuses!
And when unexpected money lands in your lap (tax refund or birthday gift), don’t spend it —toss some or all of it into your travel fund.
Be sure to check your progress regularly; watching those savings climb is a serious motivator.
Lastly, before I buy anything, I ask myself: Does this purchase bring me closer to my travel dreams? If it doesn’t, then I don’t make the purchase.
A zip line adventure payed for by gift cards received at Christmas.
2. Ask for Money or Travel Gift Cards
Here’s my next suggestion: when your family or friends inquire about gift ideas, make it easy for them and suggest Hotel.com or Airbnb gift cards or simply cash.
Trust me; you’ll be the easiest person to shop for when it comes to Christmas! This way, you’re not only feeding your travel bug but also making the gifting process a breeze for your loved ones. Instead of accumulating unnecessary stuff, you’ll boost your travel funds quicker, allowing you to take more trips.
It’s also a considerate way for your friends and family to join in on your travel experiences. Go ahead and inform them that your next vacation is in the works, and their contribution adds a special touch to the trip!
My husband will tell you that I prioritize travel over EVERYTHING!!
3. Prioritize Travel Over Everything Else
Look, if you’re serious about traveling more, then you’re going to have to make some sacrifices!
It’ll mean skipping a few parties or turning down weekend invites to save money for your next trip.
Start by evaluating your social calendar. While saying ‘no’ to some events might feel like a big sacrifice, think of it as a trade-off for the incredible experiences you’ll have in new destinations. Those missed nights out can translate into unforgettable moments exploring the world.
Financial sacrifices also need to be made! Cutting back on non-essential expenses—like dining out or opting for at-home manicures and pedicures—directly fuels your travel funds. It’s about making conscious choices that align with your priority, which is more travel.
So, the next time you face a decision, ask yourself if it brings you closer to your travel goals.
The bottom line is if you genuinely want to travel more, you’ll have to actively shape your lifestyle around it!
Views like this make working overtime worth it!
4. Work Overtime Hours
If you’re craving more travel adventures, one surefire way to make it happen is by putting in some extra hours at work. Working overtime not only boosts your paycheck, giving you more money to put towards your travels, but it can also lead to a hidden bonus: more Paid Time Off (PTO).
In many companies, including mine, the more you work, the more PTO hours you accrue. It’s like a double win—extra cash in your pocket and additional days off to travel. Personally, I’m always on the lookout for overtime opportunities because, hey, the more I work, the more PTO I can bank.
Here’s another unspoken truth: when you work hard and step up during your company’s time of need, they will be more apt to approve your vacation requests.
It’s a simple equation for me, really – work hard to play hard! Putting in those extra hours not only helps me save money but also ensures that when the time comes to go on a trip, I have the time off I need.
I love using my vacation days for epic adventures like getting my scuba certification in Belize!
5. Take Advantage of Vacation Days
Would you believe that a lot of you out there aren’t using your paid time off?
GASP!!
Yep, It’s true. Why anyone would not use their PTO is beyond me. It’s literally like giving a slice of your salary back to your employer.
In 2018, a whopping 768 million U.S. vacation days were left hanging. Let’s not add to that number, shall we? Your time off is there for a reason—use it, enjoy it, you earned it! Please don’t let those precious days slip away!
Okay, now that we got that out of the way, take out your calendar, mark down all public holidays, and align your vacations with them. Why? Because this strategic move allows you to gain a few extra days for free.
For instance, Labor Day gives you a 3-day weekend, and by taking just 4 days off, it turns a standard long weekend into a nine-day vacation. Also, another really good week to plan ahead for is the week between Christmas and New Year’s. Depending on how you play your cards, you might end up with a whopping 12 days off!
If you happen to have some extra PTO days lying around, here’s a clever move: use one or two vacation days strategically to create long weekends for quick getaways. This way, you can enjoy mini-vacations without leaving any unused PTO days behind.
Exploring the Grand Teton National Park on a long weekend.
6. Use Your Weekends Wisely
Now, that leads me to my next tip. Weekends are not just a break in your week. They are 104 chances a year to turn your travel dreams into reality.
Optimize your weekends for shorter trips, local discoveries, and new adventures. Adopt a weekend warrior mindset—hike, explore, and indulge in micro-adventures in your own backyard.
Maximize your weekends and find inspiration by checking out this collection of adventure ideas for the weekend warrior.
7. Volunteer or Work Exchange Programs
Volunteer or work exchange programs offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in different cultures, contribute to local communities, and, in return, enjoy the chance to travel affordably. Whether it’s teaching abroad, participating in environmental conservation projects, or lending a hand in community development initiatives, the options are diverse and rewarding.
By exchanging your skills and time, you not only make a positive difference, but you generally get free room and board, allowing you to experience a new place without breaking the bank. It’s a win-win scenario that allows you to travel with purpose, creating lasting memories while leaving a positive footprint on the world.
8. Combine Business and Pleasure
If you have work trips on the horizon, why not extend your stay and turn it into a mini-vacation?
Sneak in a few extra days to travel and explore the area on your own. It’s about making the most of your business travels by adding a touch of leisure.
Your extra days shouldn’t interfere with your work, and, of course, they won’t be paid for by the company. But negotiating a few additional days means you’ll save big on the cost of your airfare!
This way, you not only fulfill your work responsibilities but also create space for memorable experiences in every new destination. So, next time you’re on a business trip, consider stretching it into a leisurely escapade
Exploring Peru on a group trip.
9. Group Travel and Cost-Sharing
I love going on group trips! I explored dream destinations like Italy and Peru with a bunch of amazing ladies, some of whom I’d never met before. These organized group travels not only brought new friends into my life but also opened doors to more exciting journeys.
We’ve become a tight-knit group, going on multiple trips together. The beauty of group travel lies not just in the shared experiences but also in the practical side of things.
Splitting the costs of hotel rooms, meals, and transportation with your travel buddy becomes a win-win for everyone involved. Recently, I stumbled upon an app called Splitwise that makes cost-sharing effortless. If you’re planning group trips, I highly recommend checking it out.
My travel buddy who introduced me to the app Splitwise. Now I use it all the time!
10. Take Advantage of Travel Apps
Travel apps are like the superheroes of easy and budget-friendly adventures. I just have to share some of my favorite ones:
Splitwise: As mentioned earlier, Splitwise simplifies the process of splitting expenses among friends. It allows users to input shared costs, calculates everyone’s fair share, and keeps a running balance.
Tripit: Crafts my itineraries by sifting through my confirmation emails and pulling out the key details. Of course, if you’re a bit wary about giving Tripit access to your emails, you can forward your travel-related emails to the app or even input the details manually. But really, the magic of TripIt lies in its ability to rescue the disorganized like myself and bring order to the chaos of travel details.
Don’t underestimate the power of organization and how it can save time and money when planning your next vacation.
Being organized helps you not forget important things. This means you’re less likely to spend extra money at the last minute or miss out on opportunities. So, just spend a bit of time getting your travel plans in order, and you’ll save money while having an awesome trip!
Hotels.com: I primarily book my accommodations with the hotels.com app because I have earned and maintained a Platinum membership status with them, earning me onekeycash I can put towards a free accommodation and also saving me up to 30% on hotels.
GetYourGuide and Viator: These have been my go-to travel apps for finding unique activities and tours on my trips to many countries. They also provide the convenience of a 24-hour free cancellation policy with a full refund. This feature has proven invaluable, especially when unexpected changes to travel plans arise. It adds a layer of flexibility and peace of mind, ensuring that spontaneous shifts in itinerary don’t become a source of financial stress.
LoungeBuddy: This is my go-to app for accessing airport lounges worldwide, showing me which lounges I have access to with my memberships. The app details lounge amenities, services, and user reviews. This app lets me choose what I need, whether it’s a quiet space or shower facilities. Plus, it helps me save money by getting free drinks and snacks from the lounge instead of spending on expensive airport food.
GasBuddy: I use this money-saver app to help me find the cheapest gas along our road trip route. It provides real-time information on gas prices in the vicinity, allowing me to locate the most budget-friendly options. By optimizing my fuel spending, GasBuddy has become a valuable tool for stretching my travel budget
FreeRoam: This is the number one camping app I use to find free campsites. If you’re going to download only one camping app, I recommend FreeRoam. This app is completely free and includes helpful map overlays of BLM and Forest Service land boundaries, which allow you to quickly determine whether or not you can free camp.
But the journey doesn’t stop there. To fuel more adventures, I’ve also listed apps that help me save a few extra bucks on all my other spending:
Fetch: The Fetch app has become my secret weapon for squeezing more travel out of my budget. This app turns everyday receipts into points, which you then turn into gift cards of your choosing. For example, I have earned over $250 in free hotels.com cards. It’s a smart and effortless way to make every purchase count towards more travel opportunities.
Ibotta: This is a cash-back app for groceries only. It makes my everyday grocery purchases contribute to my travel savings fund.
Rakuten: This is another cash-back earning app for online purchases, adding up to more travel dollars. I earn cashback that adds up over time just by shopping at my favorite retailers.
Enjoying a Kauai trip that I travel hacked most of the cost!
11. Leverage Travel Rewards and Loyalty Programs
In the quest to travel more, I’ve learned the power of leveraging travel rewards and loyalty programs. These programs, offered by airlines, hotels, and credit card companies, can be your secret weapon for unlocking significant savings and exclusive perks.
Unlocking Points and Miles: Many credit cards offer rewards programs that accumulate points or miles with every purchase. By strategically using these cards for everyday expenses, you can collect a considerable number of points that translate into free flights, free accommodation, or even complimentary upgrades.
My husband and I have mastered the art of credit card travel hacking, and we have not paid for a plane ticket in over three years. It takes practice and discipline, but you, too, can get free flights, which opens the door to way more travel!
So, if you can be disciplined, open up a travel credit card and start collecting points for your next trip!
Airline and Hotel Loyalty: Loyalty often comes with privileges like priority boarding, free checked bags, and room upgrades. Additionally, frequent stays with a particular hotel chain or consistent flights with an airline can earn you elite status, opening the door to even more exclusive savings and benefits.
My favorite and most used loyalty program is OneKey, which combines bookings with Hotels.com, Expedia, and VRBO. With OneKey I have earned over a dozen dozen free nights and countless discounts and VIP perks.
Strategic Booking: Timing is key when it comes to maximizing travel rewards. Keeping an eye out for promotions, bonus point opportunities, and off-peak redemption options can significantly increase the value of your accrued points or miles. Sign up for every airline and hotel program known to man so you can get notifications in your email of promotions and never miss a travel deal.
Also, I have a global pro membership to FareDrop, which is an airline fare deal finder website and app. They also send out monthly newsletters that help you discover and learn the art of travel hacking. I highly recommend FareDrop over other fare-finder websites out there. I think it is more user-friendly, and I have found unbelievable deals!
Stacking Rewards: The magic often happens when you stack multiple rewards. Combining credit card points with airline miles or hotel loyalty points can lead to substantial savings, allowing you to stretch your travel budget further.
By strategically navigating these programs, you not only save money on your travels but also open the door to exclusive experiences and privileges. It’s all about making your loyalty work for you and turning every purchase into a step closer to your next adventure. So, jump into the world of travel rewards and loyalty programs—your wallet will thank you!
Because we were flexible we got to be one of the very first tourists to visit Ireland when the re-opend after Covid. We got popular attractions all to ourselves like the Rock of Cashel.
12. Be as Flexible as You Can
While acknowledging that flexibility might not be feasible for everyone, if you can adjust when and where you travel, you’ll uncover a treasure trove of better deals.
Personally, I keep a keen eye on Google Flights, constantly on the lookout for discount flights to anywhere in the world. By keeping an open mind on travel dates and destinations, I can take advantage of unexpected travel deals and the cheapest flights.
When a tempting deal arises, I seize the opportunity and promptly request time off for those dates. This approach not only adds an element of spontaneity to my travels but also ensures that I’m making the most economical choices when it comes to flights, accommodations, and overall trip expenses.
13. Travel During Off-Peak Seasons
Off-peak, often synonymous with lower demand and reduced crowds, offers a bunch of benefits that go beyond the mere absence of tourist hordes.
Perhaps the most enticing advantage of off-season travel is the significant cost savings it brings. Flights, accommodations, and even attractions tend to have cheaper prices during times when demand is lower. This translates into more opportunities to explore new destinations without draining your wallet.
Beyond the financial aspect, off-peak travel allows for a more affordable and relaxed experience overall. With fewer travelers vying for the same resources, you’re more likely to secure deals.
14. Red-Eye Flights and Overnight Travel
Opting for red-eye flights and overnight travel has proven to be a strategic and efficient way to get more travel.
These flights usually cost less, so my travel money goes further. Plus, traveling overnight means I arrive in the morning, so I can make the most of my time exploring without paying for an extra night at a hotel.
The quiet vibe of nighttime travel also makes the journey more peaceful, so hopefully, I can get some sleep and arrive well-rested.
By capitalizing on red-eye flights and overnight travel, I not only save on travel expenses but also unlock the potential for more frequent trips and extended exploration in each destination.
Walked everywhere or took public transportation while exploring Peru.
15. Optimize Transportation Costs
Getting smart about how you get around will optimize your transportation costs and open the door to more adventures without eating up unnecessary travel funds.
First off, consider all the different ways you can travel. Sometimes, a bus or train ticket can cost way less money than a plane ride. Plus, it adds a bit of adventure to your journey.
Here’s another travel hacking tip I often use: instead of booking flights straight to my destination of choice, I’ll instead fly into a nearby city or even a neighboring country. This trick works wonders, especially when jetting off to Europe. Just snag the cheapest ticket to Europe, and once you’re there, connecting flights become surprisingly affordable. It’s like a two-for-one deal – not only do you save tons on your trip, but taking a connecting flight or using a layover to explore a new city or country can also be way to get more travel out of your budget.
Once you’re at your final destination, consider using public transportation. It’s often way cheaper than renting a car or relying on taxis and Uber, and it gives you a taste of the local life. I had a blast using public transportation while exploring Peru in South America! It really added to my overall trip experience.
Don’t forget the good ol’ ways – walking and biking. Not only are they budget-friendly, but they also let you soak in the vibes of a place in a way you can’t from a car.
Enjoying a free campsite we found near Teton National Park.
16. Stay in Alternative Accommodations
Where you stay can make all the difference. Think beyond traditional hotels. Places like Airbnb, VRBO, or even cozy guesthouses can be kinder to your wallet than standard hotels, leaving you with more money to spend on experiences, food, and exploring.
If you are like me, you won’t be spending much time in your room anyway, other than just to sleep. I would rather be spending money on experiences! So skimp on the accommodation if your priorities are elsewhere.
Don’t shy away from hostels—they’re not just for backpackers and solo travel. Many hostels offer private rooms, providing the perfect blend of a social vibe for mingling with other travelers without the dorm experience. It’s a fantastic way to stay on budget while enjoying a bit more privacy during your stay.
17. Camping and Outdoor Adventures
Camping is your ticket to affordable travel. Forget pricey hotels; grab a tent, find a spot, and voila, you’ve got a place to stay surrounded by nature’s beauty—all without breaking the bank.
Now, if tent camping isn’t your vibe anymore, don’t worry—I get it! My husband and I invested a small sum of money in a used truck bed camper, and it’s been a game-changer. This little camper acts like our home away from home, allowing us to road trip and see so much more. It’s like carrying our cozy nest with us wherever we go, opening up a world of affordable travel opportunities.
Camping gear might be a one-time investment, and many outdoor activities are budget-friendly or even free. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a variety of adventures without constantly checking your wallet.
Ever heard of dispersed camping? It’s my husband’s and I’s preferred way to camp! This means camping outside of designated campgrounds, often for FREE! Finding these hidden gems is the way to go when you are seriously looking for ways to cut costs and stretch your travel budget!
Websites like The Dyrt and apps like iOverlander and FreeRoam help you locate these budget-friendly, off-the-grid spots.
Exploring Turkey which is one of the cheapest European Countries.
18. Visit Cheap Destinations
When you pick cheap destinations to visit, your money can do more. You get to enjoy local food, see cool things, and maybe treat yourself a bit—all without worrying too much about running out of money.
What’s even better is that choosing budget-friendly spots means you can stay there for a longer time. With more days, you can really take in everything the place has to offer at your own pace.
Here’s a helpful tip: think about how strong your money is compared to the destinations. If you go to a place where your money is worth more, you’ll have extra money to spend.
Here is a list of some of the cheapest destinations to visit:
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If you want to visit Europe, opt for Eastern Europe countries like Turkey.
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Thailand
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Peru
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Guatemala
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Vietnam
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Mexico
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Philippines
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Cambodia
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Nepal
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Colombia
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Ecuador
19. Prioritize Must-See Locations
When it comes to traveling more, a smart move is to prioritize the places you really, really want to see.
If you make a list of must-see locations, it helps you plan your trips better. You won’t miss out on the places that truly excite you.
It means you can plan your budget better and avoid spending on things you didn’t really plan for. When you know where you want to go ahead of time, you can catch early deals and find the best times to visit. This way, you use your time and money in smarter ways.
Exploring Iceland with the locals.
20. Stay with Friends or Family
One fantastic way to save money and travel more is by staying with friends or family. You’ll save on accommodations and gain insider knowledge about the best places to explore.
I know this firsthand because when I visited Iceland, I stayed with a friend’s Icelandic family, and let me tell you, it made a huge difference! Not only did it cut out the hefty accommodation expense, but being hosted by locals meant we got the VIP treatment.
Our hosts took us to all the hidden gems and must-see spots, saving us from wasting time and money figuring it out ourselves.
Staying with friends or family adds a personal touch to your journey while keeping your travel budget intact. It’s a win-win!
21. Plan Efficiently
Here’s one of my best travel tips to save money and travel more: be a smart planner!
I love planning! I consider it my superpower, my secret weapon that saves me lots of money. The excitement of planning and finding deals can be just as thrilling as the trip itself!
Efficient planning will give you time to check out all your options. From finding the best flights to picking affordable places to stay and figuring out the cheapest way to get around, planning smart is key. I’ve noticed the more I plan, the more money stays in my pocket.
Sure, going with the flow can be fun, but it can also be expensive. When you plan efficiently, you make smart choices and get the best deals. So, dive into the details, be a savvy planner, and watch your travel dreams come true without spending a fortune
Hiking and exploring ruins in Peru for FREE!
22. Explore Free Activities
One fantastic way to experience a destination without burning a hole in your pocket is by opting for free walking tours.
I’ve personally discovered the charm of free walking tours in various cities. Not only do they provide insights into the local culture and history, but they also allow you to explore iconic landmarks without spending a dime. These tours, led by knowledgeable guides, offer a budget-friendly alternative to traditional guided excursions.
Here’s a list of other free activities you can enjoy while traveling to save money:
Explore Public Parks: Many cities have beautiful parks and gardens that are free to enter.
Visit Museums on Free Days: Some museums offer free admission on certain days or during specific hours.
Beach Days: If you’re near the coast, spending a day at the beach is a cost-free and enjoyable activity.
Historical Sites: Explore historical sites, monuments, and landmarks that often don’t have an entrance fee.
Street Performances: Enjoy street performances, musicians, or artists showcasing their talents in public spaces.
Self-Guided Tours: Create your own walking tour using online resources or guidebooks.
Local Markets: Wander through local markets to experience the culture, even if you don’t plan to make a purchase.
Hiking Trails: If you’re in an area with scenic landscapes, find nearby hiking trails for an adventurous day out.
Enjoy Sunset or Sunrise: Find a scenic spot to enjoy the beauty of nature during sunrise or sunset.
Road tripping with our pups through Wyoming.
23. House Sitting or Pet Sitting
This arrangement allows individuals to stay in someone else’s home for free while undertaking responsibilities like pet care or house maintenance.
Not only do you get to enjoy the comforts of a well-equipped home as your accommodation, but you also eliminate the substantial costs associated with staying in hotels or rental properties. It’s a mutually beneficial arrangement where homeowners gain peace of mind, and house sitters gain access to new destinations without denting their budgets.
House-sitting and dog-sitting platforms like TrustedHousesitters and Rover connect homeowners with responsible house/pet sitters, facilitating cost-free travel experiences. Whether you have a fondness for pets or simply desire a homely base for your travels, house sitting provides a wallet-friendly solution to explore diverse locales.
Exploring Kauai on a budget.
24. Skip Dining Out and Alcohol
My husband and I turned what could have been an expensive vacation to Kauai, Hawaii, into a very affordable adventure by incorporating these budget-savvy tips:
Instead of dining at pricey restaurants, we opted for cooking at home in our VRBO for most of our meals. This not only saved us money but also provided greater control over our food expenses. Exploring local grocery stores and farmers’ markets added a fun touch to our culinary experience.
Alcoholic beverages, whether enjoyed at restaurants or bars or purchased from grocery stores, can be a major expense. We opted to eliminate our alcohol consumption and saved a lot of money. Not only does this benefit your wallet, but it also promotes a healthier lifestyle.
Making these simple adjustments can result in significant financial gains, allowing you to allocate more funds toward your travel aspirations. If you would like to know how we saved a lot of money on our trip to Kauai, read my article on budgeting For Kauai.
25. Sell Stuff
Take a closer look at your belongings and identify items that no longer serve a purpose or bring you joy. This could include clothes, gadgets, furniture, or collectibles.
Explore various selling platforms, both online and offline, such as eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or Poshmark, to sell your stuff. Or have a good old yard sale.
If you’re crafty, consider making and selling crafts at craft fairs or farmers’ markets. I do several of these craft shows every Christmas season. It’s a fun side hustle that contributes to my travel fund.
The trick is to direct all the proceeds from your sales into your travel fund. Every sale gets you closer to your travel goals!
Selling at craft fairs to save for my travel fund.
That’s a Wrap
There you have it—25 of my best tips on how to travel more in 2024, even if time and money are tight. With creativity and determination, the world becomes more accessible than you might think.
Now, it’s time you turn inspiration into action and incorporate these tips into your travel game plan.
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