Despite the perception of travel writers having glamorous lives and staying in five-star accommodations and dining in haute restaurants, I often travel on my own dime, and I’m cheap. To get the most out of my meager travel dollars, I employ these strategies:
• Avoid the hub towns. Sure, it’s more convenient to stay in the heart of the action, but you’ll pay more for that convenience. Seek out off-the-beaten-path towns for less-pricey digs and budget-friendly fare.
• Look for family owned motels and tourist courts. These few-frills vintage classics are often spotless and cheap. Many offer free local calls, Wifi and continental breakfasts.
• Rent a house, cottage or condo. I’ve used both HomeAway and local rental companies with good results. Just be sure to check for any add-on fees, such as cleaning, before signing.
• Consider campground camping-cottages. These are basic accommodations that are a few steps above basic camping. You’ll have a bed in a one-room cabin, perhaps a sink, but expect to use the campground bathroom facilities. Some have electricity and minimal cooking facilities. You might have to bring your own linens.
• Try bidding with Priceline, but first visit Bidding for Travel for basic how-tos as well as information on recent bids.
• Book a room with at least a refrigerator. That way you can stock up at the supermarket and prepare simple meals as well as store leftovers.
• For cheap eats, visit supermarket salad and prepared-foods bars.
• Take advantage of early-bird dining specials, two-for-one promos and discounts or coupons available online or in local newspapers.
• Instead of going out for dinner, opt for lunch instead.
• Ask locals, especially minimum-wage workers, about their favorite places to eat.
• If there’s a college or university in the area, see if the cafeteria or other dining option is open to the public or look for restaurants within walking distance of campus; these usually cater to a student’s budget.
• Purchase multi-site passes, such as state and/or national park passes or ones that provide admission to multiple museums or historic sites—but do so only if those sites match your interests and plans.
• Ditch the car and use public transportation whenever possible.
• Pick up the local newspaper to take advantage of free concerts, lectures, and other events and activities as well as coupons and advertised discounts.
• Visit the library for Internet access.
