Did you know that Gen X travellers are facing the highest travel costs in over a decade do to that fact that we tend travel as a family? Yep, in 2024, airfare and hotel prices have skyrocketed, making it tougher to explore the world without breaking the bank. But don’t worry! I’ve got some awesome money-saving hacks just for you!

If you’re a Gen-X traveller like me and looking to save some cash on your adventures, this post is for you. Today, we’re diving into some practical money-saving hacks that will help you make the most of your travel budget. Stick around to the end to read about two powerful and often unknown hacks to lessen the stress and cost of international travel.

Gen-X more than any other generation is more likely to travel with family and that natural multiplication factor can make traveling these days feel like walking a financial tightrope. Add in the skyrocketing airline fares and hotel rates, it’s no wonder we are feeling the pinch. Plus, let’s not forget about the added expenses of dining out, activities, and, of course, those pesky resort fees multiplied by 2, 3 or 4 people! It’s enough to make anyone hesitate before booking that next trip. So, how do we keep our love for travel alive without draining our bank accounts?

I’ve personally visited over 40 countries with some stays being longer than 30 days, so, so these are tried and true killer hacks that I’ve used from personal experience to help you save money while traveling.

First up, let’s talk about when to travel: When is the most expensive and cheapest months to travel? According to Travel Daily Media:

• September is the most expensive month for European destinations like Heraklion and Athens in Greece, as well as Lisbon and Barcelona. Visiting Heraklion in September will be 78% more expensive than if you were to travel in November.
• December is the peak for Asian cities like Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Dubai, which are popular winter vacation spots. It is 73% more expensive to travel to Phuket in December than in May.
• February is the third most expensive month, with cities like Cairo, Madrid, and Mumbai. It will cost you 77% more to travel to Cairo in February than in July.

The differences across continents are likely due to the seasonal differences in different parts of the world.

Now let’s talk about booking flights. Use flight comparison websites like Skyscanner or Google Flights. They allow you to track prices and set alerts for your desired destination. Most airlines put flights on sale as far as 11 to 12 months in advance – the most critical step is to be flexible on dates. Don’t forget, any flight to, from or within the US booked directly with the airline can be cancelled for a full refund within 24 hours of booking!

For credit card rewards points check out PointsYeah.com. They give simultaneous real-time search multiple dates on all major bank programs (AMEX Membership rewards, Bilt Rewards, Capital One Miles, Chase Ultimate Rewards and Citi ThankYou Points) and 21 airline loyalty programs, 6 hotel programs and 4 booking portals. You should also look at Roame.Travel and Point.me.

According to Google flight’s data, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays are the cheapest days to fly domestically in the US as well as internationally. Flying Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday was 12% cheaper than flying over the weekend for the past five years. For domestic travel within the US, flying on these weekdays is actually 20% cheaper. The international savings will not be thousands but a savings is still as savings, right?

I know a lot of families want to travel for the Christmas holidays and the good news is this particular holiday flight schedules are beginning to get more competitive. Data shows you’re likely to find the lowest prices if you book 54 to 78 days before travel. By Nov 1st, the bargains will be gone, so again, set your alerts on those flight comparison sites.

Next, let’s chat about accommodations. Instead of sticking to traditional hotels you may want to consider vacation rentals. You can often find a cozy place for less than a hotel room, plus you get the added bonus of a kitchen to whip up your own meals. Speaking of meals, always scout out local eateries instead of dining at tourist traps. Research forums and watch YouTube videos of people that have travel to your planned designation. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also get to taste authentic local cuisine.

I have a few dining rules when traveling to foreign destinations, especially if I don’t speak the language:

• if the restaurant is full of locals, go inside. Look at the food coming to the tables and tell the wait staff you want what you see on that person’s plate. Worst case, you’ve spent a few bucks on something that didn’t meet your expectation. But you would have tried something that you would never have had the courage to try and you will get more comfortable trying new things.
• booking a food tour is another great experience. I’ve tried ‘Secret Food Tour’ and heard good things about ‘WithLocals’. Both tours have destinations all over the world.
• I also take a trip to the local supermarket. It’s a learning experience within it self. I get to try local products and buy ingredients to prepare some meals in my home away from home kitchen
• don’t sleep on street food – apply logic when searching out food stalls or trucks. Make sure they look clean and buy food that is being prepared in front of you. I stay away from any vendors with prepared food that has been sitting (bonus tip: bring cash – most vendors don’t accept credit cards)
• go to restaurants in the business districts for lunch. The local clientele keeps them in business and you will score some cheap delicious food that is hot and fresh.

If traditional hotels are your jam, check hotel websites for special offer packages that include a discounted or free 2nd room for kids (you may even get free breakfast). If a hotel doesn’t list family room discounts on their website, call and ask – nothing ventured, nothing gained.

Using your credit card rewards program will help you score complimentary nights. I personally own the Chase IHG Premier card which gave me status just for signing up and every fourth night is FREE! Don’t overlook your automotive club programs as well as employer provided travel discounts.

Check out the hotel’s website for other special offers such as free breakfast, parking or special experiences. These types of direct booking packages rarely show up on hotel booking engines like booking.com, expedica.com. or google hotels.

Super hack for families with children under 12: If you are traveling with 2 adults and 2 children, ask the hotel if their rooms that is advertised for 2 adults, 1 child will accommodate 2 children. The savings will be drastic as most hotel search engines show a max capacity of 3 people but can comfortably accommodate 2 adults, 2 children. Remember, sometime hotel room capacities are regulated by local rules and can’t be changed but many hotels are flexible for families with young children potentially saving hundreds if not thousands.

Finally, sign up for a hotel’s rewards programs – you can score things like free wi-fi or free breakfast, which can add up over several days during your stay.

Now, for those 2 powerful hacks:

1. limit everyone to one own carry-on bag. Most of us travel with way too much and remember, people in foreign destinations wash their clothes too. Most hotels offer guest laundry facilities, you can wash and dry your clothes for about $1-$2 per load. This will also eliminate your check bag fee and the risk of your belongings being lost or delayed which sour your trip before it begins.
2. look at airports that are close to your final destinations for super charged savings. For example, let’s say your final destination is Ireland from the US. Look for flights to London, then take a low-cost carrier to Ireland. I have used this hack to fly around Asia for pennies compared to flying directly into my final destination. It’s all about enjoying the journey.

To recap, we’ve covered many essential money-saving hacks for Gen X travellers. From knowing when to travel, to setting alerts on flight comparison sites, to calling the hotel for special discounts, to leaning into traveling with less. Remember, a little planning can go a long way in keeping your travel budget intact!

Now, I want to hear from you! What are your favourite travel hacks? Drop them in the comments below! And if you found these tips helpful, don’t forget to sign-up for more travel advice and hacks.

Thanks for reading and remember to keep Enjoying the Journey.