6 Ways to Spend Less on Travel in 2022
From work, school, and family responsibilities-- there are always reasons people feel like they can’t make their travel dreams come true, and it usually is because of the cost.
While travel does involve costs– airfare, accommodation and some activities– there are many alternative ways to travel that not only save money but allow you to have new experiences and follow your wanderlust.
The truth it, whatever your budget is, you can make it work.
In fact, depending on your self control inside Universal Orlando, you might even spend less park hopping, than you do staying home and going on a Target run!
Here are 6 ways to spend less on travel that’ll change everything!
Getting to Universal Orlando Resort
In the summer for example, most travel & accommodations are at their most expensive.
If it’s possible to travel to Universal Orlando in the off-season, do it!
The weather is better during the off season , the par is less crowded, and you’ll save a lot of cash on hotel and airfare.
Knowing how to find cheap plane tickets is an art at any time of year. The number one strategy is to be patient. Finding a good price means you’ll have to do some serious detective work.
Ways I find cheap fights:
Use the Hopper App and keep an eye on deals when they arise.
Check airlines’ low fare calendar
Check Skyscanner to compare faresLook for indirect flights or nearby airports
Avoid extra fees (like choosing my seat, priority boarding, and checked bags)
If you’re debating the best way to travel, sometimes combining transportation (for example, plane and train) can often be the cheapest pick.
For ground travel, look into multi-way passes.
HELPFUL TIP: If you have been looking to get a travel reward credit card, I recommend applying for one before a big trip or purchase. Some of the biggest benefits are earning points to use for free flights and hotels. Plus, many cards offer additional points when making travel-related purchases. Some cards also offer travel protection when you pay for a trip with the card.
My favorite is the Chase Sapphire Preferred (especially if you’re just starting out)!
Budget Accommodation
I love AirBnb — you’ll typically find accommodation cheaper than a hotel (and you can nab this AirBnB discount from me!).
It’s even more budget-friendly if you get a place where you can use the kitchen to cook in!
You can also check out Homestay.com and VRBO for more great places where you can truly live like a local and explore amazing neighborhoods.
Consider hostels as well, and keep in mind that many do offer private rooms.
Compare Budget Offsite Hotel Rooms at places like Super 8, Holiday Inn, etc.
If you want to go for an off site hotel, look for ones that are located a little farther from Universal Orlando as they are usually cheaper. (Just make sure they offer free shuttle, so you are not paying for back and forth Uber!)
Transportation
Taxis can tend to get expensive so I try to use Uber or Lyft whenever it’s available.
Of course, when you can, walking is ideal– I tend to book my AirBnB based off if I can walk to and from the park in under 25 minutes.
This cuts my transportation costs down to just Uber from Airport to AirBnB, and AirBnB to Aiport! (Roughly $45.00 total for me)
Trip Extra's
The way you organize your daily activities at Universal Orlando can make or break your budget. Some of my best memories have actually been on adventures that didn’t cost a penny
Here are some ideas for ways to save on activities:
Skip Pricey VIP Tours
Don't feel like you HAVE to see The Blue Man Group perform
Ask for a Discount: Always look for special rates on tickets, dining passes, photo passes, etc. for students, seniors, kids, groups, or whatever might apply to you. It never hurts to ask!
Check Online for Special Deals and Discounts Before You Go: Sites like UnderCover Tourist are always offering major discounts. They can also be a good source of info on local events.
Research Free Activities: Such as watching the Frog Choir or Tales of Beedle The Bard performances, free park parades, etc.
Eating
Forget overpriced in park restaurants.
Don’t Ever Start Your Day Hungry: Take advantage of included breakfasts at hotels and hostels. Always ask about it when you check-in.
Go Grocery Shopping: Local shops give a cool insight into local life, and you’ll want to stop at one at the beginning of your trip to pick up breakfast, snacks, and more if you have a kitchen.
Go Alfresco: Opt for a picnic in the park rather than a sit-down meal.
DIY It: Aim to alternate between going out for meals and creating your own. Think of simple fixes like sandwich and deli items. Even if you can’t cook, grocery store ready-meals are a good budget solution.
Eat Midday: Lunches are typically cheaper than dinner, so choose that time to head out to a restaurant.
Try Tapas Style: Order appetizers instead of one large entrée. It’s usually cheaper, and you can try multiple dishes.
Bring a Refillable Water Bottle: You will be surprised how much buying plastic water bottles adds up, both in cash and environmental waste.
Check Out Food Tours: Many cities do a 2-for-1 tour plus dining deal.
Choose Local Wines or House Wines: These choices are both the cheapest and the best in most cases!
Know How to Tip: get to know the tipping percentages.
Shopping
There’s nothing like treating yourself to some retail therapy while you’re away, but there’s definitely a right way and a not-so-cost-effective way.
Skip the Souvenirs: Find one special thing to bring home that really represents your trip.
DIY It: Take lots of pictures and create a DIY souvenir when you get home. Search for modern collage inspiration online.
Think Small: Shop at street markets instead of at the big department stores to get off the beaten path.
Shop Local: Opt for stores you can’t find in your hometown for truly special items.
Get Tax Back: Remember to keep your receipts because you can often get tax refunds at the airport at the end of your trip!