15 Genius Ways to Travel on a Budget on Your Next Trip

Some links in this article are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Please consult a financial advisor for personalized recommendations.

Planning a trip to France doesn’t have to break the bank. With a bit of preparation and smart choices, you can experience the beauty of the country without overspending. From budget-friendly travel hacks to lesser-known tips, here are 15 ways how to travel on a budget.

15. Choose Off-Peak Travel Dates

Traveling during the off-season means fewer crowds and lower prices on flights and accommodations. Consider visiting France in late winter or early spring to take advantage of these discounts.

For example, don’t plan a trip to Strasbourg ( The European Christmas Capital) for late December. I mean, yes, you want to see the famous Christmas Market. I understand. But if you are traveling on a budget, plan your trip in early November, you going to spend at least 50% less than would you booked your hotel for December. Simply demand and supply in action. You will have the same vibe in November, it will not make it worse, you can be sure about that. Save your money.

14. Use Public Transport Passes

Instead of relying on taxis or ride-hailing apps, invest in public transport passes. Major cities like Paris offer day or week passes that provide unlimited access to metros, buses, and trams. This is a cost-effective way to get around while soaking in the local atmosphere.

If you are planning a trip to Europe, check out Eurail Pass. This program offers multiple ways to travel around Europe for much cheaper for different types of people: pass for those who are younger than 26 or senior people. If you are travelling in North America, a similar program for you would be CityPass. Check it out, it can save you around 50% on transportation costs in your target city.

13. Stay in Budget-Friendly Accommodations

Skip the luxury hotels or Airbnb and explore alternatives like hostels, boutique guesthouses, or even home rentals. Websites specializing in budget-friendly travel accommodations often have great deals, especially for longer stays.

12. Pack Light to Avoid Baggage Fees

Packing light can save you from hefty airline baggage fees. Stick to a carry-on and plan a capsule wardrobe. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also have an easier time navigating train stations and city streets. Put that puffy sweater on if you are traveling in winter to save some space. If you are constantly stressed about packing I have a free downloadable travel checklist so you don’t forget important stuff and don’t overpack.

11. Opt for Free Walking Tours

Many cities offer free walking tours led by knowledgeable guides. While tipping is appreciated, these tours are an excellent way to explore landmarks and learn about local history without spending much. Or you can be a solo tourist and just walk around without a specific goal, in my experience that way your trip becomes way more memorable.

10. Take Advantage of Discount Cards

France offers a variety of discount cards for tourists, such as the Paris Museum Pass, in some countries you can go to museums completely for free on Mondays, for example. These can help you save on entry fees and transportation costs. There’s even this discount program that lets you go to those insanely expensive hotel’s SPA and pools for a fraction of the price, when I learned it existed, I was pretty surprised.

9. Shop at Local Markets

For authentic and affordable meals, head to local markets. You can pick up fresh produce, cheeses, and bread to create your picnic—a perfect way to enjoy the countryside or a city park. In France, for example, you can stumble upon a farmers market in the middle of a big city on a particular day of the week, and take advantage of it. Oh, and buy seasonal fruits and veggies, that way your food costs you even less.

8. Dine at Fixed-Price Menus

Instead of ordering à la carte, look for restaurants offering “menu du jour” (menu of the day) deals. These set meals often include an appetizer, main course, and dessert for a fraction of the cost. That’s pretty cool!

7. Book Attractions in Advance

Booking tickets for popular attractions online can save you both time and money. Many websites offer early-bird discounts or bundled deals.

6. Rent a Bike

If the country you want to visit is bike-friendly, you can rent a bike for a few days. Cycling is a fun and comparably eco-friendly way to explore cities like Bordeaux, Lyon, or Strasbourg while sticking to a budget. In France, Strasbourg is very friendly to people who ride bicycles.

5. Explore Free Attractions

Every country offers numerous free attractions, from stunning cathedrals to public parks and gardens. Take advantage of these to fill your itinerary without spending a cent.

4. Use a Travel Budget Planner

Plan your expenses using a travel budget planner. This helps you track spending and ensures you don’t overspend on non-essentials.

3. Leverage Loyalty Programs

Sign up for airline and hotel loyalty programs to earn points and access exclusive discounts. Over time, these perks can lead to free flights or nights. It is not financial advice by any means, but some credit cards may offer travel-related benefits, such as free miles or points. It’s worth researching whether this is an option with your financial institution. But remember, when using a credit card to get travel points never spend more money on it than you have. Don’t get yourself into debt to get airline points.

When considering travel-related credit card perks, always prioritize financial responsibility. Avoid spending beyond your means to earn rewards.

2. Travel by Train with Rail Passes

France’s rail network is extensive and efficient. Investing in a rail pass can significantly reduce transportation costs, especially if you’re planning to visit multiple cities.

1. Embrace Economy Travel Hacks

The ultimate way to save money is by mastering economy travel hacks. Use price comparison tools, flexible booking dates, and alternative airports to snag the best deals. These strategies can save you hundreds, freeing your budget for unforgettable experiences. Use platforms that help you to book the cheapest price available at the moment. This one does exactly that, for example. And according to the statistics you can snatch the cheapest ticket to a flight on Thursday.

Final Thoughts

Saving money on your trip to France is all about being resourceful and planning. Whether you’re a solo traveler or planning a family vacation, these tips will help you stretch your budget and enjoy every moment of your journey. Bon voyage!