8 Budget Hacks for Last Minute Getaways

Story by Cassie Hepler

This economy is complete shit and the American tourism world is taking a hit with no one wanting to visit our current fascist regime country. So if you’re itching to bust out of it, join the club! Whether you’re trying to get out of ‘Merica or just across the country for a change of pace, I’ve got you. I’ve been traveling the world since I was 16 years old when I caught the travel bug and have learned a lot in my many years since. Let me share some of my secrets with you! Escape the ordinary with last-minute getaways on a budget and stay sane doing it. Here’s eight budget hacks that will help you maximize your travel experiences while minimizing the financial strain.

Hack #1: Embrace Off-Peak Booking

One of the most effective ways to save on last-minute travel is to book flights during off-peak hours. Airlines often offer discounted rates for flights departing early in the morning or late at night, as these are typically less popular times for travel. For maximum stretching your dollar, try to book flights for Tuesdays and sometimes even Saturdays! Also, another hack is to change your VPN (virtual private network) to the country you are visiting as Americans typically get charged more. Also another flight hack is to search for layover flights that include the destination you are going. If you go to Priceline.com and ask it to find you the best flight deal, you will see all the layovers in one easy to read screen. Then book directly with that airline so there’s no hassle involved. Don’t feel like flight searching? Let Google Flights track it for you and send you an email with best prices and times to buy.

Hack #2: Bundle Up for Savings

Explore bundled travel packages that combine flights, accommodations, and sometimes even rental cars or activities. These packages can often provide significant savings compared to booking each component separately. One of my favorites is Cheap Caribbean which includes much more than just the Caribbean and one of my first solo trips was to the Dominican Republic. Bonus tip: Sign up for their email newsletter and save even more! I’ve heard some great and not-so-great stories about Groupon trips so book with caution. Also, if you are a Marriott Bonvoy member and/or American Express credit card holder, they will snail mail you some pretty sweet deals which usually include a timeshare presentation but anywhere in Hawaii for a steal is a no-brainer.

Hack #3: Explore Alternative Accommodations

Look beyond traditional hotels and consider alternative accommodations like Hostel World for singles to mingle with fellow travelers or vacation rentals. Websites like Airbnb.com (not anyone’s favorite right now) and VRBO (much better) offer a wide range of affordable options, from cozy apartments to unique home stays, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture while saving money. I am fiercely in love with HipCamp which offers even more unusual stays, camping, glamping and RV parking options as well as the new-to-me HookHub which is pretty much the same platform. I also like that HipCamp is woman owned and ethical AF. If you must stay in a hotel, you can always search Kayak.com as well and then reach out to the hotels directly to see if they will beat or match the price listed. Remember it’s always best to book hotels direct!

Hack #4: Be Flexible with Destinations

Keeping an open mind about your destination can lead to incredible deals. Consider exploring lesser-known or off-the-beaten-path locations, which often offer lower prices and a more authentic travel experience. Maybe your dream is to stay in Paris, France however the public transportation and train systems are amazing and normalized there so you can just spend the day there with a cheaper stay elsewhere. Also, Europe is not as gigantic as even one state in the USA so getting around – and to another country – in one day is possible. Many other countries are the same so do your homework! Also, consider hiring a less costly local guide from somewhere like Airbnb Experiences which will give you insight into all the hidden gems and someone to take your cell phone pics.

Hack #5: Leverage Travel Rewards

If you have accumulated travel rewards or credit card points, now is the time to cash them in. Redeeming these rewards can significantly reduce the cost of your last-minute getaway, making it even more budget-friendly. If you’re already paying your bills on time, put them all on a credit card and treat it like a debit card when it’s payment time. Almost all American credit cards offer thousands of points to lure you in so use it or lose it! If your credit is shit, go learn how to fix it and build it on CreditKarma.com. They will even offer you introductory credit cards to get to your goal score. Just don’t do your taxes there, it’s a rip off. Only in ‘Merica are we judged by our financial records, so much fun!

Hack #6: Embrace the Ride Share Economy

Platforms like Turo, ethically questionable Uber and Lyft can help you save on transportation costs by offering affordable car rentals and ride-sharing services. Airport shuttles are usually my go to when flying into a foreign country to the hotel, sometimes included in the cost. I used Turo recently to go on a road trip to New Hampshire and it was a walkable from West Philly ideal experience. Additionally, consider using public transportation or exploring the destination on foot to further reduce expenses. If you can walk it, do it. It saves money, adds spontaneity and increased the amount of local cuisine you can indulge in. Embrace the spirit of the unknown and let these budget hacks guide you on your next last-minute adventure. Travel doesn’t have to be a financial burden if you know how to budget well.

Hack #7: Buy Food at the Grocery Store

With a little creativity and flexibility, you can unlock incredible foodie experiences without breaking the bank. Usually breakfasts or lunches are much more affordable in any city you visit around the world. So try to make those your going out to eat meals so you can still explore bucket list restaurants. If you’re anything like me, I usually just have the lunch leftovers for dinner. Grab breakfast items at the grocery store and snacks, maybe a dinner in or a picnic in a park. It’s also a cultural experience just going to a foreign grocery store… I tried a whole salted fish once and won’t do that again but it’s an experience I won’t forget. For flights or train travel, eat beforehand or grab some grocery store snacks and sandwiches to eat on the go. Most airlines don’t care as long as it’s not liquid and in a legit shopping bag. And there’s always girl dinner – meats, cheeses and bread with some wine – that always hit the sweet spot. Don’t forget the chocolate!

Hack #8: Hire a Travel Agent

In the fast-paced world we live in, spontaneity is often the only spice of life left. Last-minute getaways offer the perfect opportunity to break free from the monotony of everyday life and embark on an adventure without breaking the bank. If it’s the planning part you hate the most because it is a lot of work, hire someone else to do it that can actually beat deals I’ve found online like Expedia Cruises in Carefree, Arizona. They offer land, sea and air travel. Or you can play travel roulette with PackUpGo where you take a survey, pick your budget and then it decides where you go. Where there’s a will, there’s always a way. Happy travels!