Travel / Guide

How to Plan a Weekend Trip on a Budget

A short trip does not have to be expensive. The biggest savings come from letting the deal choose the destination instead of choosing the destination first.

1. Let the fare pick the city

Start with where you can fly cheaply from your home airport this month. Our flight deals page lists the cheapest round trips we found from each region, so you can see what leaves from near you.

2. Book in the right order

  1. Lock the flight first, because cheap fares disappear fastest.
  2. Book a refundable hotel or rental right after.
  3. Decide on a rental car last. In walkable cities you may not need one at all.

3. Keep daily costs down

  • Pick a stay near public transit or within walking distance of what you want to see.
  • Eat your big meal at lunch, when many restaurants are cheaper.
  • Look for free walking tours, parks, museums with free days and city passes if you plan to see several paid attractions.

4. Travel light

Two or three days fits in a carry-on, which skips bag fees and gets you out of the airport faster.

See today's flight deals

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