If you’re planning a trip with your partner and want to make the most of your time and money, here are some of our top travel tips for couples to save money while traveling. (Hint: These money saving tips can work for solo travers too!)

Traveling as a couple can be one of the most rewarding experiences, opening doors to new cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and shared adventures. But let’s be real: international travel can get expensive fast. After years of traveling internationally together on a budget, we’ve learned how to stretch our budget without sacrificing the experiences that matter most.

1. Plan in Off-Peak Seasons

Traveling during off-peak seasons can significantly reduce costs on flights, accommodations, and attractions. Popular destinations typically see a surge in prices during summer months and around holidays. Research the best times to visit and consider the shoulder seasons, which are just before or after peak times. For example, visiting Europe in late spring or early fall can offer pleasant weather and lower prices.

Insight:
Use resources like SkyScanner, Google Flights & DailyDrop to explore destinations and their price trends. Look for destinations that have flexible travel seasons, such as Southeast America, where low tourist traffic often equals lower prices.

2. Read our Cost of Living Reports

Finding honest, real-world cost of living reports written by people who travel like us was one of the main issues we had when we started looking into living abroad.

So we decided to share our real-world budget as senior nomads. The goal is simple: give people 50+ the practical information we wish we had in those early planning stages.

Our Cost of Living Reports page is the central hub for all things related to our budgeting and the cost of living abroad on The Mobile Retiree.

2. Travel Slowly and Stay Longer in One Place

One of the most effective hacks we use for saving money while traveling as a couple is to slow down our pace and spend an extended period in one location. This approach can lead to substantial savings, as you can negotiate with hosts for a better rate for longer stays. Many accommodations offer reduced rates for longer stays, meaning that the difference between a week’s stay and a month’s stay could be negligible.

Spending a month in one place not only allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture but also reduces expenses on transportation and accommodation.

Insight:
Check out our blog post that dives into this travel hack deeper. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to discover hidden gems and enjoy a more authentic local experience.

Stretching Our Travel Budget: Finding Affordable Places To Stay

3. Explore Alternative Accommodations

While hotels offer convenience, many alternative accommodations can provide unique experiences at a lower cost. Platforms like Expedia, Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking offer a wide range of options, from private rooms to entire homes.

Insight:
Choose accommodations with kitchen facilities. Preparing some of your meals can save a considerable amount compared to eating out for every meal. This also allows you to experience local markets and fresh ingredients.

Retirement Abroad on a Budget: Our Real First-Year Costs as American Expat & Nomads (Age 60+)

4. Stay Outside City Centers

Accommodations just outside main tourist areas are usually much cheaper and still provide easy access to attractions.

Insight:
Check public transportation options and commute times. The savings can add up quickly, especially in expensive cities.

Best Times to Visit Lisbon: Weather & Prices for Budget Travelers Like Us

5. Use Public Transportation

Instead of relying on taxis or rideshare services, couples can save money by using public transportation. Subways, buses, and trams are often much cheaper and provide an authentic way to experience a city.

Insight:
Research local transportation options before your trip, and consider buying a transportation pass that covers multiple days. This not only saves money but also makes navigating a new city easier and more efficient.

6. City Cards

Tourist city cards, like the Liboa Card, often provide unlimited public transportation and discounted or free entry to attractions.

Insight:
Research what’s included in each city card and calculate if the savings outweigh the upfront cost based on your itinerary.

Lisboa Card Review: A First-Timer’s Guide to Saving Money with the Lisbon Card

7. Travel with Carry-On Luggage

Avoid additional airline fees by traveling with carry-on luggage only. Not only does this save you money, but it also streamlines your travel experience by minimizing the time spent at check-in and baggage claim.

Insight:
Invest in quality, lightweight luggage. Choose versatile clothing and pack for a week or less (regardless of how long your traveling), planning to do laundry as needed. Compression bags help maximize space. Wear your bulkiest items on the plane to maximize space.

8. Combine Luggage

Sharing a single larger suitcase can help you avoid extra checked bag fees instead of two smaller bags.

Insight:
Coordinate your packing list in advance to ensure you’re only bringing essentials. Use packing cubes to organize shared space and prevent overpacking.

9. Take Advantage of Free Activities

This is one of our most favorite money saving hacks! Many cities around the world offer free activities, such as public museums, parks, and festivals. Research these opportunities before your trip to incorporate them into your itinerary.

Insight:
Look for “free walking tours” in your destination. Many cities have local guides who work for tips, allowing you to learn about the area without a hefty tour price. Check out our travel articles on GPSMyCity!

10. Book Flights at the Right Time

Timing is crucial when booking flights. Generally, the best time to book international flights is around two to three months in advance. Additionally, flying mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) is often cheaper than weekend flights.

Insight:
Set flight alerts on platforms like SkyScanner, Google Flights & DailyDrop to monitor price changes and snag a deal when it becomes available.

11. Flexible Flight Booking

Being open to different dates and airports can yield substantial savings on airfare.

Insight:
Use fare comparison tools and set up price alerts. Flying midweek or at off-peak times often results in the best deals. Sign up for Daily Drop to get an alert

12. Companion Tickets

Some credit cards and loyalty programs offer companion tickets, allowing your partner to fly at a reduced rate or for free.

Insight:
Review your credit card benefits before booking. These offers often have specific terms, such as booking through certain portals or flying on particular airlines.

13. Use Currency Exchange Wisely

Exchanging money can come with hidden fees. Before you go, research the best options. Avoid exchanging at airports, where rates are often unfavorable. Instead, use local ATMs when you arrive or consider preloading a travel debit card.

Insight:
Check if your bank has partnerships with foreign banks, which may allow you to withdraw cash without fees. Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with using your cards abroad.

Cash on Hand: The Smart Traveler’s Guide to Financial Preparedness

14. Cook Together

Choosing accommodations with a kitchen allows you to prepare your own meals, saving significantly compared to eating out every day.

Insight:
Shop at local markets for fresh ingredients and regional specialties. Cooking together can also be a fun, romantic activity that immerses you in the local culture.

15. Share Meals

Dining can be one of the most significant expenses when traveling. To save money, consider sharing meals. Portions at many international restaurants are generous, and sharing allows you to try multiple dishes without overindulging.

Insight:
Seek out local eateries away from tourist attractions, where prices are often lower and the food is more authentic. Use apps like Yelp or TripAdvisor to find highly rated, budget-friendly restaurants.

16. Picnic Like Locals

Buying groceries or snacks and picnicking in parks or scenic spots is a budget-friendly, memorable way to dine.

Insight:
Scout out popular local picnic spots and try regional foods from bakeries or markets. Bring a lightweight blanket for comfort.

17. Travel Insurance

Though it may seem like an additional cost, travel insurance can save you money in the long run by covering unexpected events like cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.

Insight:
Check with your credit card first – many offer travel insurance if you pay for your travel expenses using their card. Compare different insurance policies to find one that suits your needs. Read reviews and learn about the claims process to ensure you choose a reliable provider.

Tips & Resource List for Travel Insurance for full time travelers

18. Use eSIMs Like Airalo, Roamless and Gigsky (and Local SIMs or Wi-Fi)

Avoid the expensive roaming charges or international call plans offered by your service provider by using an eSIM, which lets you instantly connect to local networks in over 190 countries.

eSIMs are digital SIM cards that you can purchase and activate online before or during your trip, giving you affordable and flexible data options. This approach often offers better value than your cellular service provider’s international roaming plans. You can also use portable Wi-Fi devices or local SIMs, but eSIMs stand out for their convenience and competitive pricing.

Insight:
Roamless, Airalo and similar eSIM providers offer prepaid data plans – sometimes as low as $9 for 5GB – we use our Roamless and Airalo global digital sim because use the one esim throughout our travels, saving us time and money compared to buying a SIM at the airport or in town. (Handy for ordering that Uber at the airport!)

eSIMs eliminate the hassle of swapping physical cards, work across borders, and can be managed entirely from an app.

Note: Always check your device’s compatibility with eSIMs before purchasing, and compare plans for your destination to get the best deal. For couples, sharing a data plan or hotspot from one eSIM can further reduce costs

So there you have it; our top tips for saving money while traveling. By implementing these money-saving hacks, you too can create unforgettable memories without worrying about overspending. With thoughtful planning and a bit of flexibility, you can maximize your travel experience, making it not only affordable but also richer and more enjoyable. Happy and safe travels!