Going on vacation doesn’t have to mean draining your savings. With good planning and a few smart tips, you can enjoy an unforgettable experience without overspending. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, there are effective strategies to help you save money without sacrificing comfort or fun. Below, we’ll share some of the best ways to save on your vacation, so you can make the most of every dollar and enjoy the trip you deserve.
1. Plan Ahead and Look for Deals
One of the most common mistakes travelers make is leaving everything until the last minute. If you want to save on your vacation, planning ahead is your best ally. Booking flights, accommodation, and tours in advance usually means lower prices and more availability.
Also, subscribing to airline, hotel, or travel agency newsletters can give you access to exclusive offers, promotional packages, and early bird discounts. Keep an eye out for sales events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or offseason promotions.
For instance, if you’re planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta, many hotels offer special discounts for bookings made at least three months in advance. This way, you can secure your stay and enjoy free nights, discounted meals, or even complimentary activities.
2. Choose Accommodation with Extra Perks
Not all accommodations are created equal, and if you choose wisely, you can save more than expected. Look for lodging that includes free breakfast, a kitchen, parking, or local transportation, as these amenities can significantly reduce your daily expenses.
Vacation rentals or suites with kitchenettes are also a great option—especially for families—because preparing some of your own meals can help you cut food costs without missing out on local flavor.
In destinations like Puerto Vallarta, you’ll find hotels that offer excellent locations along with free access to pools, gyms, or local activity discounts. All of these benefits add up to big savings in your overall travel budget.
3. Eat Like a Local and Avoid Pricey Tourist Spots
One of the easiest (and most delicious) ways to save money during your trip is to eat like the locals do. Avoid restaurants in tourist-heavy areas where prices are inflated, and instead seek out spots where locals dine. Not only is it more affordable—it’s also a more authentic culinary experience.
Do a bit of research beforehand or ask locals for recommendations. Markets, food stalls, and small diners often serve complete meals at a fraction of the cost of upscale restaurants. In Puerto Vallarta, for example, places like the Mercado del Mar or Mercado Emiliano Zapata offer tasty and budget-friendly options.
You can also shop at grocery stores or convenience shops for snacks, fruit, or drinks, which helps you avoid spending extra between meals or during excursions.
4. Take Advantage of Free or Low-Cost Activities
Many tourist destinations offer a wide variety of free or low-cost activities. You can stroll along scenic boardwalks, go on nature hikes, enjoy public beaches, attend cultural events, or visit museums with free entry.
In Puerto Vallarta, for instance, you can walk the Malecón at sunset, explore the Romantic Zone, hike up to the Cerro de la Cruz lookout, or watch live performances in the town square—all without spending a dime.
Some tour operators also offer affordable packages or multi-activity discounts, and comparing prices between providers can help you stretch your budget even further.
5. Travel During the Off-Season
Traveling in the off-season is one of the best ways to keep your vacation costs low. Not only will you find cheaper flights and accommodations, but you’ll also enjoy fewer crowds and more personalized service.
Avoid peak times like school holidays, long weekends, or major festivities, and try to book your trip for midweek dates, which are typically less expensive than weekends. For example, visiting Puerto Vallarta in May or September can be significantly cheaper than traveling in December or during spring break.
Traveling off-season also means that many hotels and tour companies are more likely to offer extra discounts or free upgrades to attract guests.
6. Use Public Transportation or Share Rides
Instead of spending on taxis or renting a car, consider using public transportation, bicycles, or ride-sharing apps. Many tourist-friendly cities have safe and reliable transit systems that let you explore without overspending.
In Puerto Vallarta, for example, buses are commonly used by locals and tourists alike and offer easy access to beaches, shops, and tourist zones for just a few pesos.
Walking is also a great option, and platforms like Uber can help you estimate costs before your ride. If you’re traveling in a group, splitting transportation or private tour costs can also help you stay on budget.