How to travel on a budget: The best tips

Article

Travelling doesn’t have to be expensive, nor does it have to be about strict schedules, fixed routes, or crowded tourist traps. With a bit of planning and some smart choices, you can travel cheaply and with total freedom, tailoring the trip to your own pace and budget. From picking the right vehicle to keeping an eye on daily spending, every little detail helps you enjoy more for less.

In this article, we’ll show you how to organise an affordable trip without giving up your comfort, making the most of options like car hire to stay independent and discover new destinations while saving as much as possible.

Plan ahead to save on your trip

One of the most common mistakes when travelling is not thinking ahead and leaving everything until the last minute. Good planning is essential for any budget trip; it gives you access to better prices, more options, and fewer surprises. Want to know how to do it? Let’s dive in!

Flexibility with dates and destinations

Being flexible is one of the big secrets to saving money. Travelling mid-week, avoiding peak seasons, or considering alternative destinations can make a massive difference to your bank balance. Sometimes, simply changing your departure or arrival day can mean paying much less for flights, accommodation, and car hire.Also, try thinking about lesser-known spots: they usually offer lower prices and a more authentic experience away from the crowds. It’s always worth a look to discover somewhere new.

Booking in advance

Booking early usually leads to better deals, especially for flights and hire cars. The sooner you compare your options, the easier it will be to find cheap rates and pick the vehicle that best fits your trip.

Planning ahead also lets you map out your routes and work out distances, which helps you avoid stress and unnecessary spending once your holiday actually starts.

Transport: A key factor for budget travel

Transport often makes up a huge chunk of any travel budget. Choosing the right way to get there and get around can help you save a lot more than you might think.

Cheap flights and alternative airports

To find the best bargains, make sure to compare airlines using search engines and keep an eye out for deals. Staying on the ball is vital for finding cheap flights. Also, consider flying into alternative airports near your main destination, as flights are often much cheaper there.

In these cases, having a hire car is a massive plus, as it lets you get to your accommodation easily or move between different areas without relying on public transport.

Car hire at the best price with CarJet

Car hire is one of the most practical ways to travel cheaply and with total freedom. Through CarJet, you can compare prices between different companies and find the car that best suits your budget and needs.

Hiring a car at the airport or in the city lets you avoid expensive transfers and start your trip with complete independence from the word go.

Why hiring a car actually helps you save

Thinking that hiring a car is just an extra expense is often a mistake. In fact, it can be one of the best decisions you make to keep costs down during your trip.

Avoid taxis and expensive transfers

Taxis, private transfers, and tourist shuttles can be very pricey, especially in popular areas. With a hire car, you can move around freely without paying for every single journey, helping you stay in control of your daily budget. Plus, you avoid limited timetables and long waits, saving you both time and hassle.

Reach cheaper accommodation

A lot of hotels and rentals located outside city centres or main tourist zones offer much lower prices and better facilities. Having a car lets you reach these places easily, combining savings with a bit of peace and quiet. Staying outside the busy areas usually means less noise, more space, and a more authentic feel.

Travel as a group and share the costs

If you’re travelling with friends or family, hiring a car is even better. By sharing the cost of the vehicle and the fuel, the price per person drops significantly, especially on longer trips or breaks lasting several days.

Keeping an eye on daily spending

Saving isn’t just about the big decisions; it’s also about the little daily costs. Keeping them in check will help you stay on budget without missing out on the fun.

Avoid the 'tourist tax' in busy areas

The most touristy spots usually have restaurants, shops, and activities with inflated prices. Driving just a few miles away—which is easy if you have a car—will help you find much cheaper options that the locals actually use.

Plan efficient routes to spend less

Mapping out your routes before you set off helps reduce fuel consumption and avoids unnecessary driving. Grouping your visits by area and making the most of every journey is a simple way to save both time and money.

Plus, travelling by car lets you stop at interesting spots without relying on organised tours, which are usually a lot more expensive.

Use the car to optimise time and money

When you’re travelling, time is money. Having a car lets you make the most of every day, avoiding unnecessary waits and adapting the itinerary to your plans at no extra cost. That freedom makes for a more flexible and, often, a much cheaper trip.

How to find cheap car hire on CarJet

Compare prices online

CarJet compares the top rental companies to find the best deals in less than 3 minutes. The process is very straightforward: just tell us your destination and the dates you want the car, and that’s it! You’ll see all the available options.

Pick the right car for your trip

You can choose the car that best fits your needs. Whether you’re looking for a nippy city car for a couples' break in Rome, a large car for a road trip across the US with friends, or even a luxury car for a special occasion, CarJet has you covered.

Tips for saving on your rental

Choose a clear and simple fuel policy

The fuel policy is one of the most important things to check if you want to save money. The most transparent options are usually 'Full to Full,' where you pick up the car with a full tank and return it the same way.

This system avoids extra fees, refuelling charges, and unexpected surprises. Checking this point on CarJet helps you choose the clearest option so you know exactly what you’re paying for. A simple fuel policy doesn't just save money; it saves time and worries at the end of your holiday.

Understand which insurance is included

Insurance is another key area for avoiding unexpected costs. Before you book, it’s important to check what cover is included in the price and what is optional.

On CarJet, you can easily compare these conditions and choose the option that best fits your budget and gives you peace of mind.

Choosing well for a surprise-free trip

A smart booking isn’t just about finding the lowest price; it’s about understanding what’s included in that price. By comparing options, reading the terms, and avoiding unnecessary extras, car hire becomes a key tool for travelling cheaply and with total freedom.

With good planning, a hire car lets you move at your own pace, discover hidden spots, and stay in control of your spending. When you choose correctly from the start, you’ll feel the savings right up to the very last mile.

CarJet: Your best ally for car hire

Don’t think twice about hiring a car for your next trip with CarJet! We are here to support you every step of the way, helping you compare options, find the best deal, and book with total confidence. With a huge selection of vehicles and clear terms, travelling at your own pace, saving on transport, and enjoying total freedom is much easier. Because when you use CarJet, your journey starts with confidence from the very first mile.