How to travel cheap: 5 smart hacks to save money on your next trip

Let’s agree that travelling can be a costly affair, but if planned right, you can save big time! You won’t have to break the bank to explore a new place or country if you smartly plan your trip. You can cut costs significantly without sacrificing the quality of your trip.
Here are five smart travel hacks that can help you save money on your next trip.

1. Book flights in advance

The maximum amount goes into flight bookings but if your timing is on point, you can book flights at a cheaper rate. There have been studies from several top travel search engines which prove that buying tickets 1–3 months in advance for domestic flights and 2–8 months for international trips often gets you the best prices! Booking midweek flights can also be cheaper than weekends.

2. Pack light to avoid extra fees

These days most airlines are charging insanely for checked bags, and even some carry-ons. Traveling light can save you a surprising amount so choose a carry-on backpack and stick to essentials. Pack light and try to carry one luggage. Also you can carry your own snacks and a reusable water bottle (fill it after security).

3. Choose homestays/hostels

Next where your big money goes is hotels which can be expensive. Consider booking a homestay, tourist hostels or lodging. If you’re open to cultural exchange, there are many websites which allow travellers to connect with locals who offer a place to stay, offering an immersive travel experience.

4. Travel reward programs

Credit card travel rewards and airline loyalty programs can also help you save if you are a frequent traveller. Sign up for cards offering points on travel purchases, or airline miles. Use these rewards and points wisely as these can often cover the cost of flights, hotel stays, or even get you an upgrade.

5. Choose off-season

You can save surprisingly big if you choose to travel during off season. Avoiding peak travel times can lead to significant savings on everything from flights and hotels to tours and dining. Late spring (April–June) and early fall (September–October) will fetch you better offers. Additionally, exploring lesser-known destinations rather than top tourist cities can reveal hidden gems at a fraction of the cost.

If you’re planning to pay a visit to the US, then we have a list of places – underrated yet gorgeous – that you must visit. While iconic cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago often dominate travel itineraries, the United States is home to a plethora of lesser-known destinations that offer unique experiences without the crowds.

Whether you’re seeking serene landscapes, rich history, or vibrant local cultures, here are some underrated US destinations worth exploring. Take a look.

St. Simons Island, Georgia

Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, St. Simons Island is a tranquil barrier island known for its live oak trees, dune-lined beaches, and maritime forests. Visitors can explore Fort Frederica National Monument, bike along scenic paths, or enjoy fresh seafood at local eateries. The island’s serene atmosphere makes it an ideal getaway for those looking to relax and unwind.

Bisbee, Arizona

Once a thriving copper mining town, Bisbee has reinvented itself as a quirky artists’ colony. With its colorful Victorian architecture, steep streets, and eclectic community, Bisbee offers a unique blend of Wild West history and contemporary arts scene. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Queen Mine, explore numerous art galleries, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife in the historic Brewery Gulch district.

Cumberland Island, Georgia

Accessible only by ferry, Cumberland Island is a pristine barrier island that offers a glimpse into Georgia’s natural beauty. Visitors can hike through maritime forests, spot wild horses roaming freely, and explore the ruins of Dungeness Mansion. With limited daily visitors, the island provides a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts.

Great Basin National Park, Nevada

Often overshadowed by other national parks, Great Basin National Park boasts rugged landscapes, ancient bristlecone pine trees, and one of the clearest night skies in the US. Visitors can hike the Lehman Caves Trail, stargaze at the designated International Dark Sky Park, and explore the diverse ecosystems within the park.

Hoh Rainforest, Washington

Located on the Olympic Peninsula, the Hoh Rainforest is one of the nation’s only temperate rainforests. With its lush vegetation, moss-draped trees, and diverse wildlife, the rainforest offers a unique hiking experience. Popular trails like the Hall of Mosses and Hoh River Trail provide visitors with a chance to immerse themselves in this magical environment.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine, is a historic city known for its cobblestone streets, vibrant arts scene, and exceptional seafood. Visitors can explore the Old Port district, take a coastal train journey on the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad, or hop on an island-hopper cruise to nearby islands. The city’s culinary scene, particularly its lobster restaurants, is a major draw for food enthusiasts.

Savannah, Georgia

With its charming cobblestone streets, historic mansions, and beautiful parks, Savannah offers a picturesque setting for travelers. The city’s historic district is a delight to explore, with its oak-lined streets and well-preserved architecture. Savannah’s vibrant arts scene, thriving food culture, and welcoming atmosphere make it a delightful destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Boulder, Colorado

Nestled against the backdrop of the Flatirons, Boulder offers a mix of outdoor adventure and urban sophistication. The city boasts an extensive trail system, making it a haven for hikers and bikers. Boulder’s vibrant downtown area is filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, providing visitors with a perfect blend of nature and city life.

Door County, Wisconsin

Located on a peninsula in Lake Michigan, Door County is renowned for its charming small towns, scenic shorelines, and lush landscapes. Visitors can explore picturesque lighthouses, enjoy water activities like kayaking and sailing, and indulge in local culinary delights, including cherry pie from the area’s many orchards. The Door County Coastal Byway offers beautiful views and access to numerous parks and nature preserves.

Assateague Island, Maryland

Famous for its wild ponies, Assateague Island is a barrier island that provides a unique blend of natural beauty and wildlife watching. Sandy beaches, marshes, and coastal forests are home to a variety of bird species and other wildlife. Activities such as kayaking, swimming, and biking along the scenic trails let visitors experience the serene surroundings.

US travel ban: Should you change your travel plan?

The United States of America is closing its gates for 19 countries, as President Donald Trump’s travel ban is set to take effect at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time on Monday, June 9. While citizens from 12 countries (Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen) are set to be banned from travelling to the US, another seven countries (Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela) have come under a partial ban.

Ever dreamt of swapping your sunscreen for a snow jacket while the rest of your hemisphere is roasting? Here’s your cool escape route. While June to August means sweltering heat, mangoes, and monsoons for much of the Northern Hemisphere, it’s a totally different story down south. In the Southern Hemisphere, it’s winter during these months. So if you’re craving chilly winds and snowy slopes when your neighbours are buying flip-flops, book a ticket to one of these winter havens.

1. Australia

Not all of Oz is a sunburnt country. Head to the Snowy Mountains in New South Wales or the Victorian Alps for ski resorts, snowboarding, and even après-ski hot chocolate. Cities like Melbourne also get a distinctly crisp winter vibe.

2. New Zealand

Middle-earth looks magical in winter. Queenstown becomes a snowy playground for skiers and adventure junkies, while Rotorua’s hot springs become steamy sanctuaries. Just don’t expect hobbits to bring you cocoa.

3. Argentina

While the north stays relatively mild, Patagonia in the south turns into a snowy spectacle. Bariloche is the go-to town for winter sports, chocolate, and alpine vibes — like Switzerland with a Latin twist.

4. Chile

Ski in the Andes with a view of Santiago far below. Places like Valle Nevado and Portillo are popular for their powdery slopes. Bonus: you might spot a volcano while swooshing downhill.

5. South Africa

While coastal cities like Durban stay mild, Johannesburg and the Drakensberg Mountains can get surprisingly cold, even seeing snowfall. It’s winter with a hint of safari.

6. Bolivia

Up in the Andes, Bolivia can get downright frosty in June. La Paz and the Uyuni Salt Flats are cool — in both temperature and brag value. Bring layers and your best llama-print sweater.

7. Peru

Machu Picchu may still be open for treks, but the nights are chilly and the mountains wear snow caps. If you want winter with a side of history, this is your jam.

8. Uruguay

Often overlooked, Uruguay’s winter is more moody and misty than snowy, especially in Montevideo. It’s the perfect place to sip on mate, wear a scarf, and feel like being in an artsy European film.

9. Brazil

Yes, Brazil! While Rio parties on the beach, the southern states like Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina can get pretty cold. Occasionally, they can even see snowfall.

So while the rest of your country is obsessing over air-conditioner settings and iced lattes, you could be toasting marshmallows by a fireplace in the Andes or shredding powder in New Zealand. All you need is a passport, a parka, and the willingness to trade tan lines for thermal layers.

Because somewhere in the world, it’s always winter for someone — and lucky you, it could be!

The Growing Impact on Travelers and the Travel Industry

Traveling solo is an exciting, transformative experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. One of the most common hurdles for those traveling alone is finding ways to capture stunning photographs. Unlike group trips, where there’s always someone nearby to take photos, solo travelers must get creative to document their adventures. As solo travel becomes more popular worldwide, especially with the rise of social media, the demand for high-quality, visually captivating travel photos has soared. Travelers, now more than ever, seek ways to create striking content to share on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and travel blogs.

As content creation becomes a vital part of the travel experience, it’s clear that the travel industry, along with the photography accessory market, will continue to evolve to cater to this demand. Let’s explore five essential techniques that will help solo travelers take better photos and how these methods are shaping the future of travel photography.

1. Tripods: Stability for Stunning Solo Shots

A tripod is a traveler’s best friend when it comes to taking stable, well-composed photographs. It is especially useful for long-exposure shots and wide-angle landscape photos. Whether you’re capturing a majestic sunset in Santorini or a cityscape in New York City, a tripod allows you to frame the perfect shot without needing anyone else to hold the camera. This tool is versatile, working equally well with both smartphones and DSLR cameras.

When shopping for a tripod, travelers should prioritize lightweight designs that are easy to carry yet durable enough to withstand outdoor conditions. The best tripods feature adjustable legs, allowing users to shoot from various heights and angles. The flexibility of tripods also means that solo travelers can take shots from difficult-to-reach positions, ensuring the resulting photos are sharp and clear.

The increasing demand for solo travel photography has influenced accessory brands to develop more portable and robust tripods, providing travelers with tools that make it easier to capture their adventures while on the go.

2. Selfie Sticks: Capture More Than Just Yourself

A selfie stick has long been a go-to gadget for solo travelers looking to capture themselves in stunning locations. Unlike tripods, selfie sticks offer more mobility and are perfect for on-the-go photos. Whether you’re standing in front of the Eiffel Tower, hiking in the Swiss Alps, or strolling through Kyoto’s famous gardens, a selfie stick extends your reach, allowing you to capture both yourself and the beautiful background.

Selfie sticks are particularly useful for wide shots or group photos, as they enable you to include more of your surroundings. The key is to choose a selfie stick that is both stable and long enough to capture the perfect frame. A flimsy selfie stick can result in blurry or awkward photos, so it’s crucial to invest in a quality one for consistent, high-quality images.

The popularity of selfie sticks continues to drive innovation in the travel accessory market. As the demand grows, brands are increasingly designing compact and lightweight models suited to busy destinations such as Rome, Tokyo, or Los Angeles, where solo travelers need flexibility without the bulk.

3. Ask a Stranger: Embrace Human Connection for Authentic Shots

If you’re traveling solo, one of the simplest yet most effective ways to get a great photo is to ask a stranger to take it for you. Despite the abundance of gadgets and devices available, human interaction remains a timeless solution for capturing memorable moments. Most people are happy to help when approached politely.

This technique works especially well in tourist-heavy areas like Barcelona or London, where locals and fellow travelers are often willing to lend a hand. The key to success is clear communication. By guiding the person on how you want the shot to be framed—whether it’s a close-up or a wide-angle shot—you increase the chances of getting a photo you’ll love. If the first attempt doesn’t turn out the way you hoped, don’t hesitate to politely ask for a retake.

This simple practice fosters a sense of connection between travelers and locals, contributing to a more personal, cultural experience. It also serves as a reminder that travel is about human interactions, not just high-tech gadgets.

4. The Self-Timer: Let the Camera Work for You

One of the easiest and most effective methods for capturing a solo photo is to use your camera’s self-timer function. The self-timer removes the challenge of timing your shot while eliminating the risk of shaky hands. Simply place your camera on a stable surface, set the timer (usually for 3, 5, or 10 seconds), and step into the frame.

This is particularly useful when traveling in remote or nature-heavy locations like the Grand Canyon or New Zealand’s Milford Sound, where a tripod might be impractical. The self-timer allows you to take clear, steady shots with no extra help required. Plus, it helps avoid rushed, awkward photos—allowing you to position yourself properly.

The self-timer function has become a standard feature on most smartphones and cameras, making it even easier for solo travelers to manage their photos. With the constant improvements in smartphone cameras, this simple tool has contributed to the rise of self-shooting as a popular method for solo travel photography.

5. Bluetooth Remotes: Achieve Creative and Unique Angles

For solo travelers who want to go beyond standard shots, a Bluetooth remote is a game-changer. This handy tool allows you to take photos from a distance, enabling you to explore creative angles and compositions that might otherwise be difficult to achieve.

Whether you’re trying to capture a dramatic low-angle shot at the Pyramids of Giza, or you’re experimenting with different poses at a crowded festival in Rio de Janeiro, the remote gives you the freedom to snap photos without physically touching the camera. This opens up endless possibilities for dynamic and artistic shots from across the room, above, or below your subject.

As Bluetooth remotes become more affordable and accessible, their widespread use is driving further innovations in solo travel photography. The technology is expected to become even more integrated into cameras and smartphones, making it easier for travelers to experiment with different poses and settings.

Final Thoughts: Capturing Your Solo Journey

In today’s social media-driven world, capturing beautiful solo travel photos is more than just a way to document your trip—it’s about telling a story, connecting with others, and sharing experiences in creative ways. Whether you’re using a tripod, a selfie stick, or asking a stranger for help, each method offers a unique way to preserve your journey.

As solo travel continues to grow, these tools and techniques will not only influence the way travelers capture their adventures but will also shape how travel gear brands design products to meet the demands of today’s explorers. The growing trend of solo travel photography will continue to inspire the global travel industry, fueling innovation and encouraging new, creative ways to experience the world through the lens.