If there’s one thing I’ve learned after years of traveling, it’s that adventures don’t have to break the bank. With a little planning, the right resources, and a bit of flexibility, you can save big and still have incredible experiences. One of the biggest game-changers for me when it comes to affordable travel has been becoming a member of Going.com (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights), and I’m excited to share how it’s helped me—and how it can help you—save tons of money while seeing the world.
1. Use Going.com to Find the Best Flight Deals
I cannot emphasize enough how much Going.com has changed the way I book flights. For those of you who haven’t heard of it, Going is a service that sends you cheap flight alerts straight to your inbox. They find the best deals out there—often mistake fares or flash sales—and let you know about them before they disappear. I’ve scored some incredible deals, like roundtrip flights to Europe for under $400, all thanks to their alerts.
Here’s how it works: You sign up, choose your home airport(s), and they’ll email you when there’s a great deal on flights from that airport. They do all the legwork, searching through airlines and price drops, and deliver the deals right to you. No more spending hours on flight comparison sites or worrying if you’re getting the best price.
Pro Tip: If you’re serious about saving, upgrade to their premium membership. This gives you access to even more deals and mistake fares, and it’s more than paid for itself with the amount I’ve saved on flights.
2. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates
One of the keys to saving money on travel is flexibility. By being open to flying on weekdays, off-peak times, or during shoulder seasons, you can snag some incredible discounts. Even a day or two difference in your departure or return can save you hundreds of dollars on flights.
With Going.com, you can easily adjust your travel plans based on the deals they send. If you see a great fare for a slightly different date than you had in mind, it’s often worth shifting your trip to make the most of the savings.
3. Book Early for the Best Deals
Booking flights early is a tried-and-true method for getting the best rates, but it can be tricky if you don’t know when to pounce on the best price. This is where Going.com really shines—they monitor the prices and alert you when they’ve found the lowest fares. It’s like having a personal travel agent in your pocket, keeping an eye on the best deals so you don’t have to worry about missing out.
Thanks to their alerts, I’ve learned that certain destinations often have cyclical price drops, and being able to act quickly when these alerts come through has saved me hundreds of dollars per trip.
4. Sign Up for Airline Reward Programs and Use Points
Another way I’ve saved money on flights is by signing up for airline reward programs and using my points toward free or discounted travel. Many airlines offer free loyalty programs where you can rack up miles or points with every flight. Pairing this with the cheap flights I get from Going.com has been a dream combination.
When you book a cheap flight and earn points on top of it, you’re essentially getting double the savings! Don’t forget to use your points for upgrades, free checked bags, or even discounted flights on future trips.
5. Pack Light to Avoid Extra Fees
Packing light is another great way to save money while traveling. Many budget airlines charge for checked luggage, so traveling with only a carry-on can help you avoid these extra costs. I used to always overpack, but now I’ve learned to embrace the minimalist mindset and only bring the essentials.
And trust me, packing light also makes navigating airports and getting around easier—especially when you’re hopping between destinations or taking advantage of cheap intra-European flights.
6. Take Advantage of Public Transportation
Once you’ve arrived at your destination, public transportation is often the cheapest and most efficient way to get around. Instead of splurging on taxis or rideshares, research the local bus, train, or metro system ahead of time. Many cities offer affordable day passes or tourist cards that give you unlimited rides for a set period.
Using public transportation also lets you experience a city like a local. It’s often faster than sitting in traffic, and you can put the money you save towards trying local cuisine or souvenirs.
7. Stay in Budget Accommodations or Use Points for Hotels
Just like with flights, you can save money by being strategic about your accommodations. Platforms like Airbnb, budget hotels, and even hostels offer great options for travelers on a budget. Don’t forget to check for any reward points you might have accumulated with hotel chains, or use a site like Booking.com to find affordable last-minute deals.
Personally, I’ve found that splitting my time between budget-friendly accommodations and splurging on a night or two in a nicer place has made for a well-rounded trip without overspending.
8. Enjoy Free or Low-Cost Activities
Many cities offer free walking tours, museums, parks, and other attractions. Before heading out, research free things to do in your destination. You’d be surprised by how many iconic sites are free to visit, or only charge a small entrance fee. Walking around new neighborhoods, exploring markets, or spending time in nature are some of the best ways to soak in a destination’s culture—without spending a dime.
Saving money on travel doesn’t have to mean sacrificing experiences. With services like Going.com, being flexible, and taking advantage of loyalty programs and budget accommodations, you can have amazing trips at a fraction of the cost.
I’ve personally saved a ton using Going.com’s flight alerts, and it’s allowed me to visit places I didn’t think were possible on my budget. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a long-term adventure, these tips will help you stretch your travel dollars further and make your dream trips a reality. Safe travels!
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