It's a myth that travel is expensive. Luxury travel is... but if you live like a local and practice some frugal tips, you can stretch your dollars and travel even longer. ​

1. Apartment Rentals

The second highest cost of travel besides airfare is accommodations. I highly recommend apartment rentals through AirB&B, VRBO or 9Flats. With groups especially, this can make the costs very low per person. You get the added benefits of a local host who can provide recommendations, a kitchen to cook some meals, and they are often unique, beautiful places! Still not convinced? This link will give you $40 off your first AirB&B stay. 
​
If you are traveling by yourself or want a more youthful social scene, hostels make the most sense and are just as cost-effective. Contrary to some horror movies, most are trendy, safe and actually quite nice!

2. Resort Day Pass

We tend to stay in AirB&Bs... but will purchase "day passes" when we just want to relax by a pool or spend the day at a resort. We have spent $40/day at hotels that cost upwards of $400/night. The beauty of this model is you can also "resort-hop" and experience more than one hotel. This often works when you schedule a spa service or have dinner at the hotel as well. 

3. Free Walking Tours

When I first arrive somewhere, I sign-up for the next walking tour. Usually 1-2 hours long, it is a great way to get your bearings and see the main attractions in an efficient and informative way. Guides also provide tips on restaurants, activities, discounts and things off the beaten path that can inform the rest of your stay. Skip the bus tour, walking guides are up-close and personal. You'll get to take pictures, closely examine different locations, ask one-on-one questions and even sample food and drink (on some tours) for a modest tip at the end. 
I highly recommend Sandeman's New Europe Tours and Free Tours by Foot in the US. For more unique experiences hosted by locals, check out Vayable.com. 

4. Cook Some Meals

Don't get me wrong, food is one of the best parts about traveling! Though it can tax your wallet and waistline if you eat every meal at a restaurant. I usually like to cook my own healthy breakfast in the apartment, eat something on-the-go during the day and then have a nice sit-down dinner at a restaurant. This rule of thirds keeps you healthier and with more cash in your wallet. I also really enjoy a visit to the local market, butcher or fruit stand to see what kinds of groceries locals consume. That in its self is an experience worth having!  
If you are more adventurous, consider dining with locals in a hosted dinner. Sites like EatWith let you book a seat at a local's table and meet all kinds of new people in the process. 
Bonus tip: Buy wine at grocery / liquor stores versus restaurants. Enjoying a drink before you go out is one of the best ways to save money while you travel. 

5. Leverage Exchange Rates

Visiting countries where the exchange rate is favorable is another game-changing saver for your vacation. Your money will naturally stretch farther in countries where the dollar is much stronger, and the cost of living in these countries is also likely low. Eastern Europe and Southeast Asia are two particularly affordable regions relative to the US dollar. 

Save Money Traveling

More saving, more travel. 

Global Entry Tips

Skip the customs line and get TSA pre-check.

Healthy Traveling 

Manage exposure to illness while abroad.

Pack Light. Seriously.

Pack efficiently and minimally.

Packing Checklist

Handy list of packing essentials. 

WikiTravel

My go-to source for which tour companies to use in-market.