10 Ways to Travel More without Earning More

Do you ever scroll through social media and think, How are these people always traveling? How can they afford it?

Here’s the thing: travel doesn’t have to be a luxury reserved for high earners. I’ve spent most of my career working in the nonprofit sector and travel internationally at least 3 times per year. 

Traveling more is possible, and you don’t need a six-figure income to do it. With a little planning, flexibility, and creativity, you can turn your travel dreams into reality. Here are the tips I rely on to make it happen as often as I can—responsibly and without breaking the bank.

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1. Go Abroad

It might sound surprising, but traveling abroad can actually be more affordable than you think—especially when you compare hotel and food prices outside the U.S. or other pricey cities.

There are incredible international destinations just a short flight away from the U.S., like Mexico, Ecuador, and Colombia. You can often get there for the cost of a domestic flight, and once you arrive, you’ll be amazed at how far your money goes. From delicious meals to comfortable accommodations, everything tends to cost significantly less than back home.

If you’re open to venturing farther, destinations like Thailand and Argentina offer equally enticing opportunities. While the airfare might be higher, the day-to-day costs are refreshingly low. Imagine savoring a gourmet meal or exploring breathtaking landscapes for less than what you’d spend on lunch in your hometown.

So, don’t let budget concerns hold you back—sometimes, going abroad can be the smartest financial choice for your next adventure!

2. Mind Your Budget

I’m a big fan of budgeting because, for most of us, paychecks are a finite resource. That’s why it’s so important to spend our money intentionally—on what we need and on the activities that bring us the most joy. Think of it this way: Money = Time + Energy, so use it wisely!

For me, budgeting is what ensures I always have money for the things I care about most, with travel being at the top of my list. One strategy that works well for me is setting aside a fixed amount of money each month specifically for a travel fund. Over time, even small contributions add up and make those dream trips happen.

3. Avoid Peak Travel Season

When it comes to travel, timing matters. While we sometimes can’t avoid traveling during Christmas or summer break for family visits and weddings, peak travel seasons often come with higher prices and more stress (think delayed flights and packed airports).

Whenever possible, plan your trips outside of peak season. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also experience fewer crowds, better deals, and a more relaxed pace. And the more you stretch your travel dollars this way, the more often you’ll be able to hit the road!

4. Leverage Points

Airline miles and credit card points don’t have to be the cornerstone of your travel strategy, but they can be a great way to offset the cost of a trip every now and then.

At the very least, set up accounts with any major airlines you frequently fly with. That way, you’ll earn miles for the flights you’re already taking. While miles accumulate slowly, they don’t expire, so over time you can save up enough for a free flight—no extra effort required!

For a faster way to rack up points, consider credit cards with sign-up bonuses. These often reward you with a significant number of points if you meet a minimum spending requirement within the first 3–4 months. But be cautious: opening new credit cards can impact your credit score, so don’t go overboard. Personally, I limit myself to opening a new card every two or three years to keep things manageable. 

5. Skip Fancy Hotels and Resorts

The rise of luxury travel has brought a flood of dreamy ads showcasing hotels with jaw-dropping views and impeccable design. I’ll admit I’ve found myself drooling over the gorgeous pictures – and honestly, who wouldn’t??

Before you hit the ‘Book’ button, ask yourself a few questions: what do you want to do on this trip? And more importantly, will you be spending much time at your hotel?

If the answer to the second question is no, it’s worth reconsidering. Why splurge on a high-end hotel if you’ll be out exploring all day? Your money could be better spent on unforgettable experiences, like local tours, activities, or incredible meals.

Luxury accommodations can be wonderful, but they’re not always necessary. Think about your priorities for the trip, and allocate your budget where it matters most. After all, travel is about creating memories—not just admiring the décor!

6. Use Public Transportation

So many destinations around the world, like Buenos Aires, have incredible, inexpensive public transportation systems! Within cities, taxis and ride shares like Uber can be convenient—and sometimes necessary—but if you have the option to hop on a bus, subway, or train, take it! Not only will it save you money, but it’s also a fantastic way to experience your destination from a more local perspective.

Public transportation helps your travel dollars go further while giving you a deeper connection to the culture and rhythm of the place you’re visiting. Plus, there’s something exciting about navigating a new city’s transit system—it’s like solving a mini puzzle during your adventure!

And when it comes to traveling between cities or regions, inter-regional trains and buses are often the way to go. They’re usually more affordable, environmentally friendly, and offer the chance to slow down and soak in the scenery. 

While I love a good road trip, there’s something special about sitting back on a train or bus and letting someone else do the driving while you enjoy the journey.

7. Lean on Self-Guided Tours

One of my favorite things to do in a new city is to simply wander! There’s so much magic in discovering a place on your own. Whether you’re visiting famous landmarks, stumbling upon hidden gems, or popping into cozy local cafés and shops, exploring solo offers a sense of freedom and connection that’s hard to beat.

If you’re out in nature, the recipe for adventure is even simpler: find a well-marked trail, a serene lake, or a winding river, and let the beauty of the outdoors guide you. No elaborate plans required—just you and the great outdoors.

That said, some experiences can only be enjoyed with a guided tour, like trekking the Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina or snorkeling in the Galapagos. These once-in-a-lifetime adventures are worth splurging on, but you can balance them with budget-friendly activities, like local hikes or free city walking tours, to keep your trip affordable.

8. Look out for Cheap Flights

Finding cheap airfare can feel like a challenge, but with the right tools, it’s easier than you think! Airlines periodically drop fares to lower-than-usual prices, but these deals can be easy to miss if you’re not looking in the right places.

One of my favorite resources for finding flight deals is Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights). They offer a free subscription, but I recommend the paid version, which provides access to even better deals tailored to your preferences. It’s been worth every penny for me!

Another great tool is the Google Flights explore feature. This handy tool lets you search for flights with specific or flexible dates while displaying prices on an interactive world map. Simply choose the month you’d like to travel, set your budget, and let the map inspire you. It’s a fun and practical way to discover affordable destinations you might not have considered.

9. Find a Travel Buddy

If you enjoy staying in hotels or Airbnbs, traveling with a friend or partner is a great way to cut costs. Sharing a room means splitting the bill, which can free up more of your budget for activities, and amazing food. Plus, you can share the cost of taxis and private transfers, making your trip even more affordable.

If you’re traveling solo, consider booking a private room in a hostel. They’re typically cheaper than hotels or Airbnbs and give you the privacy you want—without the potential downside of sharing a space with unknown roommates.

10. Rent Out Your Home

Do you own your home, or does your lease allow short-term rentals? If so, you’re in luck! Renting out your space on platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo can help offset some of your travel expenses.

While listing your home does require effort—cleaning, organizing, and coordinating with guests—it can be a game-changer, especially if you’re planning a longer trip. The income you generate could go a long way toward balancing out the cost of flights, accommodations, or other travel expenses.

Final Thoughts

These are just a few of the ways you can travel more without earning more. With a little planning and creativity, you can make your travel dreams more affordable and stress-free!

Are there any other ways you’ve managed to travel more on a budget? Let me know in the comments!

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