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These Travel Hacks Save You Hundreds on Your Next Vacation

By Gabrielle Lichterman In Woman's World

Updated June 18, 2026 4:35 PM

Planning a getaway but worried about the cost? You’re not alone. With airfare and hotel prices climbing, many travelers are looking for ways to make their dream trips more affordable. The good news: Learning how to save money on travel doesn’t mean sacrificing fun or comfort. From airline loyalty programs that unlock free flights to hotel price alerts that catch the best deals, simple strategies can help you cut costs on everything from baggage fees to meals. Ready to keep more cash in your wallet? These expert-approved tips make it easy.

Trim airfare expenses

Airlines have raised ticket prices and baggage fees to offset higher fuel costs. Fortunately, these simple tactics help keep more money in your wallet:

Rack up rewards

One of the easiest ways to save is to join an airline’s free loyalty program, says travel guru Deanne Haines, co-founder of ScenicAndSavvy.com. That’s because membership unlocks a perk that delivers big savings: access to the airline’s online shopping portal.

“When you use it for everyday purchases, you earn rewards,” Haines explains. These are typically miles or points you get for every dollar you spend, which you can apply toward free or discounted flights. Visit an airline’s website to sign up.

Plan ahead

You can cut the cost of checked bags for some airlines when you pay for them at least 24 hours before your flight departs through the app or website, says Haines. JetBlue, for example, will knock $10 off your first two pre-checked bags.

Spend less on lodging

Whether you prefer the amenities of a hotel or the privacy of a vacation rental, you can save a bundle when booking:

Pounce on hotel discounts

Google recently introduced a free feature that helps you snag lower room rates: hotel price alerts. “Gmail users can sign up to receive email notifications if the price changes on a certain hotel during the dates you’re eyeing,” says Brekke Fletcher, senior director of content for Lonely Planet travel guides.

To try it, go to Google.com/hotels, search a property name, then scroll down past the list of prices until you see the “Track this hotel” toggle. Turn it on and Google will notify you when the rate drops.

Widen your vacation rental radius

If you want to stay at a rental when visiting a major destination, look at neighborhoods just outside the main area, Fletcher recommends. Prices on Airbnb, VRBO and other rental sites are often significantly lower just a few minutes away while still being close enough to easily commute.

Shrink food costs

You can still enjoy delicious meals while paying less. Here’s how:

Tap into history

Most towns have at least one longstanding eatery worth trying, reveals Eva Keller, co-founder of DiscoveringHiddenGems.com. “Many times, these ‘historic’ diners or mom-and-pop restaurants are much more affordable than newer, trendy places.” Just ask local residents and workers!

Snap up local deals

Look up regional chains where you’re visiting, then join their loyalty rewards program, recommends Keller. “You frequently get a welcome reward you can use on your first visit.”

Head to grocers

Major supermarkets offer a wide range of freshly prepared food for on the go—and some delis are even famous for their selections. “If you’re in Florida, for example, pick up a ‘pub sub’ from Publix,” Keller advises. These are beloved local favorites.

This story first appeared in the June 29, 2026 issue of Woman’s World magazine.

This story was originally published June 18, 2026 at 4:00 PM.