Travel guides are like your personal backstage pass to the world, giving you the inside scoop on where to go, what to do, and how to avoid rookie mistakes. Seriously, I’d probably still be lost in Paris if it weren’t for the trusty guidebook I bought at the airport—don’t ask how I managed to miss the Metro. (I’ll be honest, that first hour was mostly spent on Google Maps.) Anyway, here’s the kicker: a travel guide is about more than just sight-seeing; it’s your roadmap to saving money while still having a blast.

For many of us, the excitement of travel is only matched by the dreaded price tag that comes with it. Flights, hotels, overpriced tourist traps… the expenses can add up faster than a 20-something influencer at a free brunch. But, with a little bit of planning and the right resources, you can explore the world without going broke. Think of it like finding the perfect Instagram filter, but for your wallet.

1. Plan Ahead with Comprehensive Travel Guides

Alright, let me level with you: the best way to avoid that awkward “Where am I?!” moment when you step off a plane (or worse, in the middle of a weirdly silent train station) is planning. You’d think I’d learned this after missing my train in Italy—don’t ask. But a good travel guide can be a lifesaver. Whether you’ve got a thick, glossy Lonely Planet book or you’re scrolling through the endless advice on travel apps like TripAdvisor, these guides give you all the deets.

Travel guides do more than tell you where to go—they tell you how to get there, when’s the best time to visit, and most importantly, where NOT to go. I can’t count how many hidden gems I found simply because I read a few reviews and suggestions from people who weren’t paid to give glowing reports. For instance, there’s this insane street food stall in Bali—nothing fancy, just a lady on a rickety cart with the best satay I’ve ever eaten. Trust me, that gem wouldn’t have been on a big tour group’s itinerary.

Tip: Pick Guides that Match Your Travel Style

Not all guides are made equal, y’all. If you’re more of a “Wander the streets with no plan” type, you might want a guide that’s a bit more flexible and organic in its recommendations. On the flip side, if you’re the kind of person who’s already got an Excel sheet ready with every minute of your trip scheduled (bless you), you’ll want something more detailed. I used to think I was the spontaneous kind of traveler. Then I spent 12 hours in a small town in Spain because I didn’t know when the buses ran. I learned the hard way: know the schedule.

2. Use Budget Travel Websites and Apps

In today’s world, we all have these tiny computers in our pockets—phones, for those who don’t get the tech jargon. Those phones can be your best friend when trying to stick to a budget while traveling. Apps like Google Travel, TripAdvisor, and Skyscanner are all but essential in today’s digital age. When I first used Skyscanner to book flights, I felt like a wizard who had just unlocked the “deal” spell. I found round-trip flights to Iceland for less than what I’d spend on a Friday night out in New York. That, my friends, was magic.

Oh, and if you’re traveling with a set budget, these apps let you filter options based on price—because who really wants to drop $200 on a fancy dinner when there’s a hole-in-the-wall spot serving tacos for $3?

Tip: Travel During Off-Peak Seasons

Here’s a wicked good money-saving tip: avoid the crowds. Seriously. I used to think traveling during summer was the only way to go, but a little research showed me that the “shoulder seasons”—those weird months between high and low season—are the best for your wallet. You get the same experience, minus the crowds and overpriced hotels. For instance, I went to Greece in October. The beaches were quieter, the food was still fresh, and I didn’t have to elbow my way through 3 million tourists to see the Parthenon.

3. Accommodation: Save Big on Where You Stay

I’ll be real: accommodation can take up a huge chunk of your budget, especially if you’re staying in a high-demand city. But if you’re willing to step off the beaten path, your wallet will thank you. My first trip to Paris, I made the mistake of booking a “cheap” hotel in a touristy area. It was “cheap” in the sense that I got bedbugs and paid a premium for the privilege.

Instead, apps like Airbnb and Booking.com opened up my eyes to local stays. Think outside the box. A rented apartment or guesthouse can often give you more space for less cash. Plus, you get the chance to live like a local. One of my favorite memories is waking up in an Airbnb in Amsterdam and hearing the local bakery owner yell “Good morning!” to everyone walking by. Pure charm.

Tip: Hostels Aren’t Just for Backpackers

Here’s the deal: hostels aren’t just for kids with too much caffeine and not enough sleep. They can actually be a wicked affordable option for solo travelers or anyone who doesn’t mind sharing a space. When I stayed at a hostel in Prague, I had the chance to meet a bunch of fellow travelers, which meant tons of free advice (and free beer). Plus, they usually have kitchen facilities so you can cook instead of blowing your cash on overpriced restaurants. I’ve been to some hostels that have an entire community garden, which is just perfect for anyone who enjoys a little “green” time.

4. Eating on a Budget

I get it. Food is one of the best parts of traveling—hands down. However, if you’re not careful, eating out can cost more than your flight. Let’s be honest, a $20 plate of pasta in Rome may sound romantic, but it’s not exactly practical if you’re on a tight budget. That’s why I learned to love street food. I mean, sure, there’s risk involved—once I ate a mystery meat sandwich in Thailand that made my stomach question all of life’s decisions—but for the most part, local food stalls serve the best flavors for pennies on the dollar. (Seriously, $2 spring rolls in Vietnam? Yes, please.)

Tip: Cook Your Own Meals

If you’re staying somewhere with a kitchen, take advantage. I once spent two weeks in Bali with nothing but a wok and a $5 budget for groceries. I ended up eating some of the best meals of my life for practically nothing. Find a local market, grab some fresh produce, and whip up something with a little flavor. You’d be surprised how much you can make with a few eggs, some rice, and a dash of soy sauce.

5. Transportation: How to Get Around on a Budget

Alright, so once you’ve landed and you’re all set up in your accommodation, you’ve gotta figure out how to get around. I’m gonna be honest here—I once spent way too much on taxis in Barcelona because I thought public transport was “too complicated.” Well, turns out I was wrong, and I ended up paying for my own ignorance. Public transportation, y’all, is your best friend.

Buses, trains, subways—most cities have systems that are easy to navigate and won’t cost you an arm and a leg. Pro tip: Get a day pass for public transport, and you’re golden. And hey, if the weather’s nice, walk or rent a bike. You might find that you stumble upon hidden gems you’d never find in a cab.

Tip: Avoid Taxis at All Costs

If there’s one thing I learned from my trip to Tokyo, it’s this: taxis are overpriced, and usually unnecessary. Unless you’re stranded at 3 AM after missing your last train (ahem, been there), skip the cab fare. Try walking or catching a local bus for a fraction of the cost. I once took a 2-hour train ride from one city to another for less than what I spent on a 20-minute ride from the airport to my hotel in New York. Trust me, it’s worth it.

6. Maximize Your Travel Experiences with Free Activities

Here’s where the real magic happens: free activities. I’m talking about walking tours, local markets, museums with free entry days, or even hiking up a hill to see the sunset. There’s so much out there that doesn’t cost a dime. One of my best memories? Stumbling onto a free jazz concert in the park in New Orleans. I had no idea it was happening, but it was perfect. I didn’t spend a cent, and it felt like the whole city came alive for that one night.

Tip: Embrace Nature

Seriously, nature is the best (and cheapest) way to spend your time. Hiking, swimming in crystal-clear lakes, wandering through national parks—these are things that won’t cost you a thing but will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Plus, nature has this whole calming effect—beats the noise of a tourist trap any day.

Conclusion

Look, traveling doesn’t have to mean draining your bank account or dealing with tourist traps. With the right travel guides, budget tips, and a little creativity, you can have an incredible adventure without breaking the bank. Do your research, book wisely, eat like a local, and embrace the free stuff. And hey, if all else fails, at least you’ll have the stories to tell—and a wallet that’s not screaming for mercy.