Travel - Here are 10 pieces of advice to help you save money during your travels.

Are you someone who frequently travels for business? If so, you're probably aware of how costly it can be. Between flights, hotels, meals, and transportation, the expenses can add up quickly. The good news is that there are numerous ways to save money on business travel without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Travel - Here are 10 pieces of advice to help you save money during your travels.

1. Avoid tourist-heavy locations

- Instead, I've found that seeking out lesser-known destinations can provide a sense of peace and serenity. Exploring off the beaten path can also offer unique cultural experiences and a chance to connect with locals. Plus, there's something special about discovering a hidden gem before it becomes too popular. So, while it may require a bit more effort and research to find these hidden spots, the reward is worth it.

2. Visit local shops and attractions

. I love living in the Yakima Valley because of the unique local shops, artists, and entrepreneurs that make it such a sweet and interesting place. When I plan my visit to the Yakima Valley, I always make sure to include a stop at Union Gap, where old traditions blend with contemporary ideas. This charming community is nestled in the "gap" of two mountains and has a rich history that is worth exploring.

. And speaking of shopping, the downtown area has an authentic, local shopping experience that I highly recommend. There are also two shopping malls in the area, which offer a wide array of shopping and dining options. Trust me, visiting the local shops and attractions of the Yakima Valley will leave you feeling optimistic and inspired.

3. Take overnight transportation to save on accommodation

• I'm always looking for ways to save money while traveling, and I've found that taking overnight transportation is a great option for cutting down on accommodation costs. Whether it's a long-distance bus or a train with private sleeping rooms, I've been able to get a good night's rest while also saving money on a hotel room. Plus, it's a great opportunity to see more of the country and have a unique travel experience.

• Sure, it might take a bit longer to get to your destination, but the savings are worth it. So next time you're planning a trip, consider taking overnight transportation and enjoy the extra cash in your pocket.

4. Travel to low-cost countries

- Are you craving a travel adventure but don't want to break the bank? Look no further than low-cost countries! I have personally explored the wonders of Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, and I can attest to the incredible value they offer. From affordable accommodations to cheap street food, these countries are a budget traveler's dream.

- And if you're looking for even more affordable options, consider places like Nicaragua, Colombia, and Montenegro. Not only will you save money, but you'll also have the opportunity to immerse yourself in new cultures and witness stunning sights. So why wait? Pack your bags and head to these low-cost destinations for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure without breaking the bank.

5. Buy less stuff

• I have come to realize that carrying less stuff on my travels has made my experiences richer in many ways. Instead of filling my suitcase with unnecessary items, I only pack the essentials such as clothing, toiletries, and medications. When it comes to buying items, I prioritize buying toiletries and medical items on the road, as it saves space and helps me stay organized.

• This also allows me to allocate more money towards experiences instead of frivolous purchases. I feel a sense of freedom knowing that I am not weighed down by material possessions while traveling. By choosing to buy less stuff, I am able to fully immerse myself in the culture and enjoy the journey, rather than focusing on acquiring material objects.

6. Opt for off-season travel

1. I highly recommend opting for off-season travel! Not only can you save money on flights and hotels, but there are also benefits like escaping the crowds and getting more discounts on attractions.
2. My husband and I recently visited Amsterdam during the off-season and it was a dream - we didn't have to compete with the masses of tourists, and we even got cheaper rates for our accommodations.
3. It's also a great opportunity to check out destinations that may be too busy during peak travel times. So take the plunge and explore some of the world's top destinations without breaking the bank!

7. Fly on off-peak days or times

. As a budget traveler, I always look for ways to save money when booking flights. One of the best tips I have learned is to fly on off-peak days or times. I have found that flying on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays often means I can get a much cheaper ticket than if I were to fly on a peak day like Friday or Sunday.

. Not only do I save money, but I also avoid the crowds and long lines at the airport. Additionally, I try to book flights during off-peak times like early morning or late at night, which not only saves me money but also means I arrive at my destination feeling well-rested and ready to go. Overall, flying on off-peak days or times is a great way to save money and enjoy a more relaxed travel experience.

8. Choose budget-friendly destinations

- I am beyond excited to share my top eight budget-friendly travel destinations that are sure to leave you in awe. First on my list is the vibrant city of Merida in Mexico's Yucatan. Not only is it the largest city, but it's also incredibly cheap. Thailand, known as the land of reclining Buddhas and temples, is a must-visit destination for backpackers.

- South Africa offers breathtaking natural scenery, while the Grand Canyon National Park provides endless hiking trails and stunning views. Turkey is full of history and charm, making it an affordable yet meaningful destination.

- Colombia is a colorful place with a dark past, but is quickly becoming a popular budget-friendly option. If you're a history geek like me, Albuquerque, New Mexico, has a rich cultural background and is a budget-friendly alternative to other tourist hotspots.

- Lastly, who could forget Costa Rica? Known for its lush rainforests and stunning beaches, it's still affordable if you plan accordingly. These wonderful destinations prove that traveling doesn't have to break the bank.

9. Use flight search aggregators and deal websites

• I am excited to share my experience using flight search aggregators and deal websites to find the best deals on flights. Skiplagged has been a game-changer for me, as it offers hidden-city ticketing, which has saved me a lot of money. Google Flights is another powerful tool that uses ITA to provide the cheapest flight prices.

• Frommer's battle royale has helped me compare different airfare search engines and aggregators to find the best deals. Kiwi.com is another great fare aggregator and metasearch engine that has a unique feature called “virtual interlining.” Booking.com is my go-to website for booking flights, hotels, rental cars, airport taxis, and activities.

• eDreams is another popular online #travel agency and search aggregator that offers deals on flights, holiday packages, and car rentals. Lastly, alternatives to Priceline like Orbitz, Booking.com, and Expedia have helped me book flights, hotels, and rental cars at discounted prices. Overall, using flight search aggregators and deal websites has made my travel planning easier and more affordable.

10. Cut back on unnecessary expenses

I am feeling optimistic about cutting back on unnecessary expenses. It feels empowering to take control of my spending habits and prioritize my financial goals. By tracking my spending and putting together a budget, I can easily see where I can reduce costs.

Canceling unnecessary subscriptions and lowering my electricity use are just a couple of the ways I can save money. I also want to prioritize sustainability and make eco-friendly choices. By cutting costs at home, I can free up more money to put into savings.

And when I hit savings milestones, like 10 no-spend days in a month, I plan to reward myself with fun and inexpensive treats. I can't wait to see the positive impact that cutting back on unnecessary expenses will have on my financial future.