10 Tips to Save on Vacation

Many of us dream of vacations full of relaxation and adventure, but the price tag can bring us back to reality fast. It’s tough to truly unwind when money is on your mind. That’s why we put together this helpful guide to allow you to enjoy an incredible trip without draining your savings. 

Tools like Hopper, Google Flights and Skyscanner monitor costs and send alerts when prices plummet, so you can book at the best possible time. They will help you spot the cheapest days to fly and avoid the trap of booking too early or too late. Often, trackers even catch flash sales and glitches—giving you a chance to snag deals before they disappear. 

2. Cash in Your Points 

Don’t let those airline or hotel rewards go to waste. Redeem miles for full or partial airfare or to fly in a higher class. Hotel points can score you free nights, room upgrades or lower the overall cost of your stay.  

3. Travel in the Off-Season 

Do you want to save money and avoid crowds? Traveling during the off-season—also known as shoulder season—might be your best bet. This is when demand drops and deals are easier to find. The exact timing depends on the destination, but it usually lands in the spring and fall.  

4. Pack Smart 

If you’re flying, stick to a carry-on to skip baggage fees and the hassle of hauling heavy luggage. Additionally, little things like packing snacks and bringing a reusable water bottle can stretch your dollars and make your trip more convenient. 

5. Book a Hotel with Complimentary Breakfast 

What’s better than waking up to a spread of eggs, sausage and bagels? When it’s free and you didn’t have to cook it, of course! An on-the-house breakfast not only cuts costs but also makes mornings easier—fueling you up for a full day of sightseeing without an extra stop (or bill). 

6. Buy Tickets in Advance 

Planning ahead pays off—literally. Booking attractions or activities online in advance is often cheaper, and you might find exclusive web-only deals and bundled packages. Plus, you’ll dodge the disappointment of sold-out time slots. 

7. Utilize Public Transportation 

Subways and buses and trains, oh my! These forms of transit are often cheaper than rideshares, renting a car or driving your own vehicle. You avoid expenses like gas, parking fees, tolls and car maintenance. 

8. Find Free Things to Do 

Fun doesn’t have to burn a hole in your wallet. Many museums, festivals, beaches and parks cost nothing. Doing research ahead of time can uncover hidden gems and special events that let you make the most of your trip while keeping your budget intact. 

9. Skip the Tour, Do It Yourself 

Forget the expensive, guided tours. Instead, opt to use an app like GPSmyCity, which offers self-guided walking tours in more than 1,500 cities worldwide. Many of the tours are free. Some advanced features or offline capabilities have a fee. 

10. Use a Rewards Credit Card 

If you’re already spending, you might as well get something back. Our Visa Signature® Rewards card and Visa Platinum® Rewards card both offer cash-back options. You can compare them here and choose one that works for you. 

Whether you're jet-setting overseas or exploring closer to home, a little planning goes a long way. Use these tips to travel smarter, stretch your dollars and focus on making memories that will last a lifetime.