Traveling as a couple is one of the most rewarding experiences you can share—but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re heading out for a romantic weekend or taking a long-term trip together, budget travel doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or romance. With the right strategies, you can explore the world affordably while making unforgettable memories.
In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through 15 proven tips for traveling cheap as a couple, with practical examples you can start using today.
1. Create a Joint Travel Budget
Talk Money Before Booking
Before you start browsing flights or hotels, sit down and have an honest conversation about finances. Decide on:
- Total trip budget (what you’re both comfortable spending)
- Spending categories (transportation, accommodation, food, entertainment, emergencies)
- Preferred comfort level (hostels vs. hotels, street food vs. restaurants)
This avoids conflicts later and ensures both partners are on the same page.
Set a Shared Savings Plan
Open a joint travel fund and contribute to it regularly. Even $50–$100 a month adds up quickly.
Use expense-splitting apps like Splitwise or Tricount to track shared costs transparently.
2. Choose Budget-Friendly Destinations
Think Beyond Famous Hotspots
Instead of paying premium prices in Paris, Venice, or London, consider destinations like:
- Vietnam – Affordable food, beautiful landscapes, rich culture
- Mexico – Vibrant cities, beaches, and historical sites
- Portugal – Romantic charm at lower European prices
- Georgia – Mountains, wine culture, and low living costs
Travel Where Your Money Goes Further
Research countries with favorable exchange rates.
Use tools like Numbeo or Wise Currency Converter to compare living costs before deciding.
3. Travel in the Off-Season
Avoid Peak Times
Flights and hotels can cost double during holidays, summer breaks, and festivals.
Travel during shoulder seasons (just before or after peak months) for better prices and fewer crowds.
Off-Season Benefits
- Lower accommodation rates
- Easier bookings for popular attractions
- More personalized service from tour operators
4. Use Smart Booking Strategies
Set Fare Alerts
Use tools like Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Expedia to track prices and get alerts when fares drop.
Flying mid-week (Tuesdays or Wednesdays) is often cheaper.
Book Early for Best Deals
Reserve transport and lodging weeks (or months) ahead to secure discounts.
Sign up for loyalty programs for extra perks.
5. Consider Alternative Accommodations
Hotels aren’t the only option. Save money without losing comfort by trying:
- Private hostel rooms – Affordable, often with hotel-like amenities
- Guesthouses – Local charm and personalized service
- Airbnb – Many include kitchens to cook your own meals
If you’re adventurous, look into:
- House sitting (TrustedHousesitters, MindMyHouse) – Free stays in exchange for caring for homes or pets
- Couchsurfing – Free accommodation offered by locals
💡 Insider Travel Tip:
Before you book, compare prices across multiple platforms.
Click here to check today’s best hotel & Airbnb deals for couples
6. Travel Light and Share Essentials
Avoid Baggage Fees
Budget airlines often charge high fees for checked luggage.
Travel with carry-ons and pack versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched.
Share What You Can
Split toiletries, chargers, and travel gadgets to save space and weight.
7. Use Public Transportation
Skip taxis and rental cars whenever possible. Instead:
- Take buses, trams, and trains
- Get daily or weekly transport passes for unlimited rides
- Use apps like Moovit or Citymapper for easy navigation
For longer trips, consider overnight buses or trains to save on a night’s accommodation.
8. Eat Like the Locals
Try Street Food & Markets
Street vendors often serve authentic, delicious meals for a fraction of restaurant prices.
Examples:
- Pho in Vietnam
- Tacos in Mexico
- Pad Thai in Thailand
Cook Occasionally
If your accommodation has a kitchen, make simple breakfasts or dinners to cut costs.
9. Take Advantage of Couple Discounts
Many hotels, tour companies, and attractions offer:
- “2-for-1” deals
- Romantic getaway packages (sometimes with free extras like spa treatments or wine)
- Bundle tickets for multiple attractions
Check sites like Klook, GetYourGuide, and Travelzoo for special offers.
10. Earn While Traveling
Work Remotely
If you can work online (writing, design, teaching English), bring your laptop and keep earning during your trip.
Volunteer for Free Accommodation
Platforms like Workaway and WWOOF offer food and lodging in exchange for work.
11. Limit Expensive Activities
Prioritize Free Experiences
Some of the best moments cost nothing—sunset walks, hiking trails, exploring local markets.
Look for free museum days or public events.
Use Combo Tickets
When paid activities are a must, bundle them for discounts.
12. Keep Track of Spending
Use Budgeting Apps
Apps like TravelSpend, Mint, or Trail Wallet help you:
- Set daily limits
- Categorize expenses
- Sync data between both partners’ phones
Review your budget weekly and make adjustments as needed.
13. Don’t Skip Travel Insurance
Travel insurance protects you from unexpected costs like:
- Medical emergencies
- Flight cancellations
- Lost luggage
Affordable providers include SafetyWing, World Nomads, and Heymondo.
Also check if your credit card includes travel protection.
14. Maximize Credit Card & Loyalty Rewards
Use travel rewards cards to earn:
- Airline miles
- Hotel points
- Cashback
Pool your points as a couple for bigger redemptions like free flights or hotel upgrades.
15. Stay Flexible
Be open to changes in plans. Sometimes a cheaper, unexpected opportunity can lead to your most memorable experience.
Flexibility also makes it easier to compromise when one of you prefers different activities.
Final Thoughts
Traveling cheap as a couple is about teamwork, creativity, and smart choices—not deprivation. By picking affordable destinations, booking strategically, using local transportation, and staying flexible, you can enjoy rich travel experiences without overspending.
Ready to start your next affordable couple’s getaway?
Click here to see the latest flight and hotel deals for couples