Travel Smarter, Not Harder: Booking Flights, Hotels, and Activities at the Best Prices

So it’s the new year and you have again pronounced “2025 will be the year I travel more”. It’s an understandable goal - who doesn’t want to escape their everyday routine to sip overpriced coffee in an airport terminal and debate how long they could actually maintain a holiday fling. This year, however, it doesn’t have to drain your wallet or your spirit. With the right mix of strategy, tools, and tricks, you can globetrot (and have that international romance fantasy) while spending like a uni student. Here’s how to fly, stay, and play for less.

Flights: How to Keep Your Wallet Grounded

Flying for cheap doesn’t mean booking a seat next to the lavatory (unless you’re into that). With these tactical tips, you can snag great deals without sacrificing comfort.

Tools of the Trade

• Google Flights: A lifesaver for tracking prices across dates. Use the map view to find cheaper airports nearby—sometimes flying into a neighboring city (or even country) saves a bundle. It’s also great for setting price alerts which tell you when ticket prices drop below a certain level.

• Skyscanner: The "everywhere" search feature is perfect if you’re open to adventure and just want the best deal.

• Hopper: Predicts the best times to book with accuracy that’s borderline psychic.

• Eurostar: Book far enough in advance and you can get a £44 train to virtually anywhere the Eurostar goes to. Watch out for their flash sales, which bring the cost even lower to £35 a leg 

  
  

Like Most Things in Life, Timing is Everything

While a spontaneous trip to Paris is definitely a fun idea, maybe try not to do it too often. Booking tickets a month or so in advance can significantly reduce the costs. Better yet, set a price tracker 2 months in advance and be alerted when the price is lowest. 

(In the voice of Kendrick Lamar) Loyalty Loyalty Loyalty… 

Loyalty programs for airlines and travel websites can offer great perks and cost savings for frequent travelers. Programs like WizzAir membership,  British Airways Executive Club and Virgin Atlantic Flying Club, all free to join, let you earn points for flights that can be redeemed for upgrades or future trips. Other travel platforms also offer free loyalty programs like  Trip.com Rewards and Booking.com Rewards and Expedia Rewards are also free and can provide discounts and exclusive deals on flights and hotels. However, always compare prices on independent platforms like Google Flights or Skyscanner, as loyalty discounts can sometimes mask higher base fares. Check multiple sources ensures you're truly getting the best deal.

Tactical Tips

• Book Flight Legs Separately: Direct routes aren’t always the cheapest. For example, booking two one-way flights or splitting your journey (e.g., NYC to London, then a separate London to Rome ticket) can slash costs. 

• Flex Your Dates: Search for flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Saturdays, which tend to be cheaper.

• Travel Off-Season: Sure, the Amalfi Coast in August is dreamy, but it’s also twice the price. Go in shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for discounts and fewer crowds.

  
  

Hotels: Crash in Style Without Crashing Your Budget

Let’s talk about accommodation. Whether you’re after five-star luxury or a cozy Airbnb, there are ways to stretch your dollars further.

The Big Players

• Airbnb: Usually my typical go to! Great for groups or longer stays, and usually much cheaper than a hotel. Pro tip: Message hosts directly and ask for a discount on extended bookings—they sometimes oblige.

• Booking.com: Reliable and offers Genius discounts for frequent users (we all like to feel special).

• Hotels.com: Collect nights like Pokémon cards—10 stays earn you a free one.

  
  

Tactical Tips

• Stay Outside the City Center: Suburban hotels or stays near public transport hubs often cost 30–50% less. Spend less on sleeping and more on exploring.

• Last-Minute Deals: Apps like HotelTonight are your best friend if you’re flexible. Perfect for spontaneous adventures!

• Book Ahead: Especially in popular destinations or during peak seasons, locking in early saves you from price surges.

  
  

Activities: Play Smart, Save Big

Experiences make trips memorable, but they don’t have to cost a fortune. From free museum days to discounted tours, here’s how to save while living your best tourist life.

Top Resources

• Viator and GetYourGuide: Perfect for finding tours and experiences, often with early-bird or group discounts.

• Free Walking Tours: Available in most cities and led by passionate locals. Drop a nice tip and enjoy a richer experience.

• Local Tourism Websites: They often list free events, discounted passes, and other hidden gems.

  
  

Tactical Tips

• Check Free Days: Many museums (e.g., the Louvre, New York’s MoMA) offer free admission on certain days. Research and plan accordingly.

• Buy a City Pass: Passes like the Paris Pass or CityPASS bundle major attractions and transportation, saving you both money and time.

• Skip the Line Tickets: For popular spots like the Colosseum or Eiffel Tower, pre-booking online not only avoids queues but can sometimes save you a few bucks.

  
  

General Hacks for Traveling on a Budget

A few universal tricks to make your travels smoother and cheaper:

Transportation

• Public Transit Over Taxis: A $2 bus ride beats a $30 cab any day. Bonus: you’ll see the city like a local.

• Rideshare Apps: Apps like Uber or Bolt often have promotions in new cities.

• Walk When Possible: It’s free, great exercise, and you’ll stumble upon hidden gems along the way.

  
  

Packing

• Pack Smart: Airlines rake in billions from baggage fees. Stick to a carry-on and use packing cubes to maximize space.

• Don't be surprised: You should weigh and measure your carry-on luggage before leaving the house. The fees for an overweight or oversized back can be depressing so if you really need the extra space, buy it ahead of time. 

• Bring a Reusable Water Bottle: Airports have refill stations, and you’ll save a small fortune on bottled water.

  
  

Credit Card Rewards

• Maximize Points: Use a travel rewards card for flights, hotels, and everyday purchases. Many cards also offer perks like lounge access or travel insurance.

  
  

Final Word: Plan Smart, Travel Happy

Traveling doesn’t have to mean choosing between a dream vacation and eating instant noodles for a year. With a mix of planning, the right tools, and these tactical tips, you can enjoy world-class experiences without the world-class price tag.

So, what are you waiting for? Fire up those booking sites, dig into those discounts, and start plotting your next adventure. Just don’t forget to leave space in your suitcase for souvenirs—or better yet, memories that won’t cost you a penny.

Maybe 2025 will indeed be the year you travel more (cheaply)!