Tips for Traveling on a Budget

Vacations are the best! But the high costs often associated with traveling? Not so much…

At Armed Forces Vacation Club, we believe that you shouldn’t have to break the bank just to enjoy a great vacation! We’ve put together a list of our favorite wallet-friendly travel tips to help you make the most out of your vacation without busting your budget.

Be flexible with your airfare

There are tons of tips out there on how to make the most of your dollars when it comes to flights, but we like to use the simple motto ‘be flexible’! When your travel plans permit, try to be flexible with your departure day, departure time and airport (budget airlines frequently fly out of regional airports). All of this flexibility can translate to big savings!

When you can, drive

Do you know the saying “explore your own backyard”? Well, we love it – and so will your wallet! Take advantage of drive-to destinations to help cut down on transportation cost. Make the most out of your travel days by planning fun stops along the way to try new foods, see new sites and more.

Take advantage of the “free”!

In virtually every destination, there are opportunities to do, see and experience things for free. Spend a little time researching your destination before you travel to find the best of the “free” – including museums, outdoor music concerts, tours and more. Helpful Tip: the Visitors Bureau can be a great resource to explore!

Use your credit card points

Let your purchases work for you! Many credit cards offer reward points for purchasing everyday items – groceries, gas, etc. Before you travel, redeem your points for gift cards to use toward meals, tickets and more throughout your vacation.

Use a guidebook

Trust us. Guidebooks have been valued travel companions for decades – and for good reason! They can help you find the best restaurant in your price range, provide you with suggestions for self-guided walking tours and so much more.

Looking for more tips on how to travel on a budget? Check out AFVC’s Traveling On A Budget article and more in the Vacation Planning Resource Center.

P.S. Don’t forget that Armed Forces Vacation Club offers free membership for all active duty, guard, reserve and retired members of the Armed Forces, as well as civilian employees of the DOD. Join today!