Be Strategic When Booking Flights

A budget trip to any destination starts when you pull up the booking site. Ensure you’re getting the best flight deals by setting fare alerts early in your search. You can do this by simply toggling the “Track Prices” switch on Google Flights or signing up for email notifications from route tracking services like sister site, Airfarewatchdog. Having some flexibility in your travel dates could save you even more, as it allows you to search for the cheapest trips in a given time frame, usually over a span of a few months. 

Travel During the Shoulder Season

Weather-wise, Bora Bora experiences a tropical climate and minimal rainfall year-round. Temperature remains in the mid-70s to high 80s Fahrenheit (between 21 and 31 degrees Celsius). Traveling during the low season will save you the most money, but the trade-off is the intense rains that buffet the beaches during the rainy season, especially in December and January. Savvy travelers can maintain some off-season savings and benefit from better weather by aiming to book during the island’s shoulder season, around November in the autumn and April in the spring, 

Skip the Major Resorts

Resort fees and high nightly rates are the true budget-breakers when it comes to Bora Bora (the Four Seasons Bora Bora can run guests a cool $1k per night). Seeking out alternative accommodation goes a long way toward stretching your spending.

For outdoor enthusiasts, try out eco-camping at Bora Bora Motu Camping. Tucked away from the buzz of the main island on Motu Tupe, guests at this campsite can connect directly with the nature of Bora Bora and benefits from their hosts deep local and ecological knowledge.

For adult travelers under 40 years old, Alaroots Bora Bora Camp is a no-frills option that is nonetheless highly-rated. Check-in and check-out are self-serve and the property has a mix of permanent structures and room for tents. Despite the minimal amenities, Alaroots does offer a manta ray encounter, leopard ray encounter, and snorkeling package for interested guests—just inquire with their online reception.

Another popular option in Bora Bora and the surrounding islands is a stay at a guesthouse, small hotels typically run by families. These accommodations are usually in convenient areas with easy access to island attractions. Guests also benefit from the hosts’ local expertise and insight into the area.

Curate Your Itinerary Carefully

The key to sticking to budget is to plan your itinerary ahead of time. When crafting your trip, consider the following:

Choose your investments wisely. Choose where you want to invest your money ahead of time. For example, if engaging with marine wildlife is a can’t-miss experience for you, splurge a little on a tour of the Coral Gardens or the Bora Bora Lagoonarium. Knowing your priorities ahead of time and sticking to them can limit spur-of-the-moment spending.

Know what’s included in your vacation package. If you do plan to spring for a resort stay, make sure you’re aware of all inclusions in your nightly rate. There may be free or discounted excursions included in your package.

Luckily, Bora Bora offers plenty to explore, even for travelers working with a limited budget. When creating your itinerary, think about: 

Hitting the beach. Plage de Matira, located on the island’s southernmost point, is Bora Bora’s only free public beach. Snorkel, rent a jet ski, or go kiteboarding off its sunny coast. 

Timing your trip around local events and festivals. To truly immerse yourself in local culture, plan your trip around Heiva i Bora Bora, an annual multi-week Polynesian cultural festival beginning in July. This festival welcomes residents and tourists alike with music, dance, and sports events. Water sports enthusiasts may want to plan their trip for September to welcome the outrigger canoes as they pull up on the shores of Plage de Matira, the finish line of the world-renowned Hawaiki Nui Va’a race. 

Going for a hike. See the island from a different perspective with a hike up the 2,400-foot-tall Mount Otemanu, which ends with stunning views of the island, or up the Point Fitiuu Cannons trail, which gives hikers the best views of Mount Otemanu dominating the skyline.  Here is where you’ll want to invest a bit of your budget for a guided hike, as many of the island’s trails are difficult to follow for those unfamiliar with the landscape.

Get a Resort Day Pass

If you want a taste of resort life without the multi-night commitment, go for a resort day pass. Many resorts will charge non-guests an entry fee to use their amenities for a single day. For example, the St. Regis Bora Bora offers a day pass for its spa. These deals are often not well-advertised, so reach out to the hotel about a week or two ahead of time to see what they offer.

The post How to Do Bora Bora on a Budget appeared first on SmarterTravel.

These eight destinations seem pricey at first glance, but this year are more budget-friendly than ever.  Whether it’s thanks to new air routes, favorable exchange rates, or affordable tours, here are the budget travel places you didn’t know you could afford in 2025.

Sicily

Slow down and enjoy a taste of the Italian lifestyle with a surprisingly affordable Sicilian getaway. This island off the southern tip of Italy ranks eighth on Dollar Flight Club’s list of the cheapest destinations to fly to in 2025. Cruise into Catania or Palermo for only $500 roundtrip from East Coast airports or just $630 from the West Coast. Although the current exchange rate favors the euro, the difference it slight—the 1:1.05 (EU:USD)—with most reasonable daily expenses only impacted by a margin of $5 USD. Save even more by traveling during off season, late autumn through late winter, for cheaper rates on hotels and fewer crowds.

New Orleans

As affordable U.S. getaways go, New Orleans itself packs plenty of culture and value—as long as you avoid booking during the city’s big festivals like Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest. Flights to the Big Easy start at under $150 roundtrip from the East Coast, with fares from Boston and New York as low as $70 and $100 respectively. Flights from the West Coast are comparable, with fares from major airports like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Portland all between $100 and $170 roundtrip. If you are set on experiencing Mardi Gras in the city, budget carrier Spirit is adding four temporary routes to meet the demand of the 2025 season, departing from Columbus (OH), Indianapolis (IN), Memphis (TN), and San Antonio (TX).

China

China seems to be on everyone’s bucket list—as it should be—for its big wonders like the Great Wall and its smaller pleasures like Shanghai street food carts. Flights to China from the West Coast U.S. for around $750 aren’t uncommon, and booking with tour operators can lower the price of a lengthy stay even further, all while letting you get the lay of the land from a seasoned local guide. For example, G Adventures’s China Express Tour will ferry you from from Beijing to Shanghai over eight nights for just $1,199—covering lodging, transportation, and activities for roughly $150 per day. 

Costa Rica

Flights to San Jose, Costa Rica’s capital city, can be found for under $300 roundtrip departing from the East Coast U.S., with West Coast prices remaining below $400. San Jose is centrally located, making it the main starting point for travelers looking to visit iconic spots like Tortuguero National Park, Manuel Antonio National Park, and Arenal Volcano National Park. Flights to Costa Rica’s other international airport, Liberia, are available from both the East and West Coasts for under $400. This airport lands you in close proximity to Guanacaste Province, home to the laidback surf town of Tamarindo and black sand beach Playa Carbon.

With G Adventures’ Costa Rica Quest, adventure seekers can spend nine days in Costa Rica riding rapids, sampling coffee, and exploring the rainforest, all for an average of around $116 per night.

Iceland

After WOW Air faded from the scene in 2019, Iceland’s new budget carrier PLAY swooped in to fill the void by offering super affordable fares to Reykjavik. Flights to Iceland’s glaciers and hot springs on PLAY air are especially cheap, with prices as low as $70 one-way. While PLAY only operates out of East Coast airports, West Coasters wanting to get in on the deals can book with Icelandair, which offers fares as low as $430 roundtrip. While not as much of a steal as East Coast departures, even Icelandair’s higher fares like L.A. to Reykjavik for $460 round-trip are a deal considering the value. Subscribe to airfare deal sites like our sister site Airfarewatchdog to be notified when fares are cheapest.

Saint Lucia

According to Skyscanner, flights to Saint Lucia’s capital city Castries fell by 25% over the past year. Flights are cheapest January through March of 2025, with one way fares from the East Coast U.S. as low as $127. While flights from the West Coast are more expensive, those with flexible dates can find fares as low as $200 one way. Saint Lucia is a relatively small island—travelers can drive from Vieux Fort at one end to Gros Islet at the other in under two hours. Savvy planners can easily fit in volcanic mud baths in Soufriere ($10 USD), a visit to Pigeon Island National Park ($10 USD), and a quick jaunt to the Pitons with plenty of time to spare to lounge on the island’s free public beaches.

Galapagos

Like many of the world’s most biodiverse places, the Galapagos archipelago islands are protected and allow only trained nature guides to take visitors to experience the wildlife. But seeing plant and animal species found nowhere else on Earth doesn’t have to cost a fortune, thanks to Ecuador’s official use of the U.S. dollar and on-sale tour offerings.

Intrepid Travel’s Galapagos Experience is just  $1,500 for a seven-day Galapagos itinerary including accommodations, transport, and nature activities including bird watching, snorkeling, a visit to a volcano, and more. Flights to Quito for under $400 from the East Coast, and around $500 from the West Coast aren’t uncommon. Darwin’s outdoor laboratory packs plenty of value for devoted adventure travelers.

South Africa

Our summer (i.e. the Southern Hemisphere’s winter) is the best time to indulge in a South African escape—and it’s probably more affordable than you’d think. Not only is the weather still mild in winter, but you’ll get a break from all the high-season summer flight prices of the Northern Hemisphere. It’ll still be an investment, but during summer you can easily find South Africa flights from East Coast cities like Boston for as low as $850 round-trip in July and August. In fact, South Africa also snagged a spot on Dollar Flight Club’s cheap flights list for the new year.

South Africa’s exchange rate is also now in Americans’ favor, with luxury hotel prices sitting around the average price of a standard hotel in the States. If a guide-led safari isn’t in your budget after airfare, don’t sweat it: Cape Town also has affordable arts and culture experiences like artisan shops and local wineries, and hiking spots like Table Mountain and Helderberg Nature Reserve.

Fares are accurate as of time of publication.

The post 8 Places You Didn’t Know You Could Afford appeared first on SmarterTravel.

While relocating to a foreign country may seem like an impossible fantasy, it’s actually quite achievable with some thoughtful planning and a clear vision. The real challenge often lies in choosing the right destination. 

International Living just released its 2025 Annual Global Retirement Index. This report is designed to help retirees find destinations where their money goes further, offering great value in housing, daily living expenses, and overall quality of life.

The index assesses potential expat destinations across several categories, including healthcare, housing, cost of living, and ease of integration into local communities.

International Living picked Panama as the best place to retire abroad in 2025. “This year’s Index showcases safe, welcoming, good-value places where retirees can live better for less—while enjoying an adventure and finding like-minded community in surrounds that suit them,” says Jennifer Stevens, Executive Editor at International Living. “Panama’s incredible affordability, modern infrastructure, and welcoming culture have once again earned it the top spot.”

The Best Places to Retire Abroad 2025

1. Panama
2. Portugal
3. Costa Rica
4. Mexico
5. France
6. Spain
7. Malaysia
8. Greece
9. Italy
10. Thailand

The post The Best Places to Retire in 2025 appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Affordable Travel Gift Ideas

Here are some of the best options for travel gifts that cost a lot less than you might think.

Smartphone Camera Lenses

Thanks to clip-on lenses, upgrading your smartphone photography is simple. An easy-to-use and affordable travel gift that any Instagrammer will appreciate, the Mocalaca Phone Camera Lens Kit includes five photo-transforming lenses: telephoto, wide-angle, polarized, fisheye, and maco. They’re perfect for getting up close or fitting more into your shot and are compatible with most smartphones and tablets.

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A Massive Scarf

A cozy scarf is something I never travel without, and it also happens to make a great and affordable travel gift for just about anyone. Wander Agio’s women’s options come in sixteen colors and can double as a blanket or a stylish shawl. For men, Marino’s Cashmere Feel Scarf comes in an array of colors and with a gift box that seems to contradict its price.

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Tiny Speakers

Sound-booming speakers small enough to stash in your carry-on for the hotel room or vacation rental make for an affordable and clever travel gift. Altec Lansing Bluetooth Speaker is lightweight, waterproof, and can play wirelessly for 6 hours on a full charge.

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A Collapsible Water Bottle

Reusable water bottles have long been a must-have airport accessory, and can also be a great travel gift. SPECIAL MADE Collapsible Water Bottle folds up when empty to fit in any travel bag, and has a leak-proof locking cap. Forget the clunky stainless steel canteen water bottles of last year and gift someone a practical travel water bottle that has pack-friendly bragging rights.

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Treats Snack Box Subscription

Trying new and foreign foods is one of the best parts of travel, and it can make for a unique travel gift. Start someone on a snack box subscription like Treats to gift them tasty snack flavors from around the world. Treats sends snacks from a different country each month, and shipping is free for U.S. addresses. Treats subscription boxes start from $21.95 per month on CrateJoy. Be sure to order a single box or pause your account after the first month if you don’t want to continue a subscription.

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Wool Outerwear Accessories

Wool winter accessories like wool knit ear warmers and hats are packable and thoughtful affordable travel gifts. YSense’s Cable Knit Ear Warmers are a chic option for women, or try a unisex Merino wool hat like Minus33 Ridge Cuff Beanie for something that’s softer and more breathable than standard wool.

Shop Now – YSense

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A Packable Air Humidifier

We all know someone who needs this travel gift. Diffusers and humidifiers are a great way to combat dryness caused by cold weather travels and arid airplane cabins, plus it’s an aromatherapy sleep solution if you mix in some essential oils. If you didn’t think a packable version existed, this Actpe Portable Essential Oil Diffuser is just seven ounces.

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High-End Travel Samples

Perfect as stocking stuffers, travel-sized sample packs are an affordable travel gift for someone who appreciates a little bit of luxury. The Origins Best Seller Kit allows shoppers the chance to try some of the brand’s high-end skin care without the price tag while The Original Make Up Eraser makes taking make up off while on the road a breeze, without having to pack make up remover wipes or ointment. 

Shop Now – Origins Kit

Shop Now – Make Up Eraser

An Ultralight Carry-on Bag

Everyone could use an extra carry-on that folds away into itself—you never know when you’ll want a spacious personal item to keep close to your plane seat. Arxus’s Lightweight Foldable Duffel Bag packs down into a pouch, but can fit up to 40 liters inside when it’s open. The waterproof fabric and rear sleeve that fits over a telescoping suitcase handle make it a foolproof gift for the frequent traveler.

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The post 9 Affordable Travel Gift Ideas for Under $25 appeared first on SmarterTravel.

You May Regret Being Cheap While Traveling

A cheap flight, inconveniently located hotel, or minuscule rental car may save you money, but they’ll likely still cost you plenty of regret and inconvenience. Want to avoid feeling the regret of being cheap when you travel? Then avoid these mistakes:

Waiting for the Shuttle to an Off-Airport Rental Car

You just survived a long flight and are ready to get to your final destination. Too bad you booked with a shady rental car company that’s located in an industrial area far from the airport. Now, instead of hopping in a car and driving off, you’re trekking to some forgotten corner of a far-off terminal and waiting for a rental car shuttle bus that may or may not come.

Getting up Before Dawn for an Early Flight

Hovering over the “book” button, you think to yourself, “I’m saving $50! I’m so frugal! I get up early for work every day, a 6:00 a.m. flight won’t be that bad!” Until the night before your flight when you’re calculating just how early you have to wake up to be at the airport in time … and realize that you’re going to be spending the first day of your vacation sleep-deprived. Plus, if you have to be up before public transit is running, you may end up spending what you saved on the flight to take a taxi to the airport.

Lying Awake at Night Listening to Your Hostel Roommates Snore

How bad can a 20-bed room in a hostel be? After all, you’ll only be there to sleep, so why bother spending more for a private room? If one of those 20 beds is booked by a loud snorer, a sleep-talker, or someone waking up early for a flight, pretty bad—and will defeat you being in there to sleep, since you won’t get any.

Settling Into the Middle Seat in the Back of the Plane

After spending too many hundreds of dollars on a bare-bones economy ticket, it can be hard to persuade yourself to give another penny to an airline. You’ll stuff everything into a small carry-on and be willing to board last… but when you settle into the non-reclining middle seat next to the bathroom, you will be cursing your past self for being cheap and not paying the fee to select your seat.

When Your Tiny Rental Car Might Not Make It

The economy rental car option seemed like a fine idea when you were looking at it on the website and trying to cut costs, but when your budget vehicle turns out to be comically toy-sized (especially compared to those semi trucks whizzing past you on the highway), you might start to have some regrets about being cheap. See also: that heart-stopping moment when you wonder if your car is actually going to make it up a hill/down that dirt road or if you’re going to figure out how roadside service works in a foreign destination.

Dragging Your Suitcase on Public Transit

Everyone on this packed train hates me, you’ll realize as you try to squeeze your way on with your suitcase while accidentally whacking a few commuters with your backpack. As you’re dragging your luggage up and down the stairs, through crowds, and off the train or bus, you’ll rue being cheap and not just splurging on a taxi.

Stressing Over Your Flight Connection

When you’re on the first leg of a plane journey with a tight connection, every minute your plane doesn’t board, or sits on the tarmac without taking off, feels like an eternity—the flight with the 50-minute layover was the cheapest option, but does that cost savings matter if you miss it?

Waiting in Line to Buy a Ticket Instead of Paying the Booking Fee

This ticket site wants how much to book admission in advance? I’ll wait and buy it at the window, you think… until you arrive at the attraction and discover everything is sold out, or that the line is hours long. Is being cheap worth wasting your precious vacation time standing in line? If it’s a Ticketmaster-esque ridiculous fee, it can be a tough decision.

When You Reach Hour Five on the Slow Ferry or Train

The slow ferry/bus/train won’t be that much worse than the express, you think. Imagine all the scenery I’ll see. That sounds like a great, cost-saving measure until you’re trapped on an excruciatingly slow form of transport, experiencing fatigue and pain from sitting for so long, and thinking of everything you’re missing by not arriving sooner.

The post 9 Times You’ll Regret Being Cheap When You Travel appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Let Flight Deals Decide Your Destination

If you don’t have your heart set on a specific destination, you can save a ton of money by letting flight deals influence where you travel to. You’ll be able to fly for even cheaper if you can be flexible on the dates you travel as well.

Google Explore is a great tool for finding amazing flight deals across the globe. You can put in your home airport and travel dates (which can be specific dates or as broad as a “one week trip in the next six months”) and you’ll see a map showing cheap flights to a wide range of destinations. 

Explore Alternative Modes of Transportation

Flying may seem like the fastest way to travel between destinations, but when you factor in getting to and from the airport, waiting in security lines, and checking in, sometimes other modes of transportation can turn out to be quicker—and cheaper.

Before you book a flight to get to your next destination, check out Rome2rio. The site will show you all of the available options for transportation between two spots, including buses, ferries, flights, and driving. It’s especially useful if you’re looking to book a multi-destination trip. 

Pick Destinations Where the Dollar Goes Further

It’s easy to spend less when you travel somewhere where the dollar goes further. Fortunately, there’s an easy way to see how pricey a destination is before you travel. Known as the Big Mac Index, this list ranks countries by how cheap a standardized item is to purchase. The list uses McDonald’s Big Mac hamburger as the comparison item, as it’s something that’s available in almost every country in the world. 

Avoid Unnecessary Fees

Inflation is bad enough—don’t make your trip more expensive than it already is by paying foreign transaction fees. These are sneaky fees (up to 5% of the purchase price) that many banks and credit card companies charge consumers for using their credit or debit cards abroad to pay in foreign currency. 

There are plenty of options for cards that don’t charge foreign transaction fees (or even ATM fees), so be sure to use one when you travel—Capital One, for example, doesn’t have foreign transaction fees for any U.S.-issued credit cards.

Price Out the Whole Trip Before You Book

Find an amazing flight deal? Make sure you quickly check prices for your entire trip before you press “buy.” Any savings from the flight could be eaten up by the costs on the ground if you choose an expensive destination.

Price out the cost of a hotel, rental car (if needed), and average cost of meals to get a better idea of how much your trip will cost to be safe before you book anything non-refundable.  

The post 5 Money Saving Secrets for Travel appeared first on SmarterTravel.

When you travel a lot, it’s natural to develop habits that work for you. For me, the few days before a trip tend always to follow the same pattern: I review my itinerary, make a mental list of what I want to pack, plan accordingly, and make my bed before I leave the house. Unfortunately, I’ve also developed a few bad travel habits along the way.

Bad Travel Habits and How to Quit Them

One habit that’s proven particularly hard to break is refusing to splurge on cabs when I’ll be out all day. Because I try to walk everywhere to save money, my feet are the ones paying the price at the end of the day.

We’ve all got our bad travel habits, but the good news is that you can break them with a little bit of effort. Whether you’re a workaholic walker like me or a packing procrastinator, here are some ways to break even your most persistent bad behaviors.

Not Learning Basic Vocabulary

If you frequently land in a new country and realize you never learned how to say hello or thank you, you’re probably familiar with how silly it makes you feel. Learning new languages is difficult and might not seem worth it if you’re passing through many different countries or staying for a short amount of time, but knowing the basics can make all the difference when it comes to how comfortable you feel and how well you connect with local people.

Solution: Of course, there are plenty of language apps and tutorials you can use to learn a language, but there’s an easier solution if you don’t think you’ll have time to practice. Instead, make it a point to look up the basic words of the new language at least once before your trip and write them down. Keep them somewhere handy, like saved on a note on your phone, and when you get there, you’ll have them at your fingertips.

Booking at the Last Minute

You can tell yourself that you’re waiting for the prices to drop, but unless you’re very flexible, that can backfire: The longer you wait, the fewer options you’ll have. Whether you’re booking flights, accommodation, or a tour, you’re almost always better off booking well in advance and having everything organized before your trip.

Solution: If you still want to hold out for low rates, set a “book by” date for yourself at least a week or two before you leave for your trip. Consider it a self-imposed deadline and do whatever you need to do to hold yourself accountable. I like to schedule my personal deadlines into my calendar to make them feel more official.

Not Giving Yourself Enough Time to Pack

If you’ve got packing problems, it’s likely you’re a repeat procrastinator. This is one of the most common travel habits, and it can be tough to break when life is busy. If packing lists have no effect on you, there’s one thing you can do that you probably have to do anyway.

Solution: A few days before you leave, do your laundry. Instead of putting your clothes away in your closet, pack the fresh clothes right into your suitcase. Not only will this ensure that the clothes you wear most often are fresh and clean, but it will also help you get a start on planning your outfits before and during your trip. After you put in your first load, pull out your luggage and start researching the essential items for your destination.

Packing More Than You Need

If you’re a chronic overpacker, you’ve probably had your fair share of struggles with the check-in luggage scale and bags that just won’t close. You might think you need to take advantage of your airline’s full luggage allowance, but the truth is you shouldn’t be filling up your luggage just because you can.

Solution: Use a smaller suitcase. Consider how long you’ll be traveling and how many of your outfits can be reused, and then find luggage appropriately sized for the length of your trip. You’d be surprised how little you’ll need.

Not Splurging When You Should

This one varies from traveler to traveler, but everyone has that one thing they hate to spend money on. I’m very stubborn about paying for cabs or public transportation and often choose walking instead. The downside of this is that I’m often too tired to enjoy a night out, or I suffer from aching feet. For others, being too stubborn to spend might mean booking accommodation far from the center of town or missing out on a special food because it’s a little pricey.

Solution: Give yourself a budget to splurge. This small act of premeditation can make a huge difference in your travel experience. Knowing you’ll have a little money set aside to live a little will help you feel more comfortable spending spontaneously. Remember, this should be a set budget totally separate from your emergency fund to remove any guilt you might have.

Not Learning the Exchange Rate Ahead of Time

If this is one of your bad travel habits, you’ve probably wondered repeatedly if you’re paying a fair price whenever you’re confronted with a new currency.

Solution: Keep a currency exchange app on your phone. Take out all the uncertainty at the cash register by keeping a reference ready. What’s great about the apps is that they are constantly updating, which means you’ll always know the most recent rate.

Overbooking Yourself

Ever feel like you need a vacation after your vacation? It’s probably because you’re signing on for too much. When you’ve only got a set number of days somewhere, it’s tempting to try and do it all, but that’s no reason to treat your vacation like one long to-do list.

Solution: Make peace with not being able to see everything. And if you can’t do that, make a list, identify your priorities, and book only those priorities. Leave everything else up to the moment. Trust me: That cooking class probably won’t seem like such a good idea after you’ve actually completed the three-hour walking tour. 

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post 7 Bad Travel Habits and How to Quit Them appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Fortunately, if you know where to look, there are actually plenty of vacation packages under $500 available that include food, drinks, hotel, and even flights. Follow these tips to find an ultra-cheap vacation deal. 

Book Early (Or Last-Minute)

When it comes to booking an all-inclusive vacation package, you’ll find the best deals if you either book early or at the last-minute. Many resorts will offer early booking bonuses to entice vacationers into locking in plans. Flights will also be cheaper the earlier in advance you book.

At the other end of the spectrum, all-inclusive resorts will generally slash rates in an effort to fill unsold rooms the closer it gets to an arrival date. If you can be flexible, you can find some amazing last-minute deals a week or two before departure. 

The Best Sites for Finding All-Inclusive Vacation Packages With Airfare Under $500

There are a number of all-inclusive vacation websites that have sections showcasing deals under $500, making them a great place to start your search. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Expedia Vacations Under $500
• Cheap Caribbean Vacation Deals Under $599 (You can set your price range on this page to be under $500, and the site frequently offers promo codes for up to $199 off.)
• Orbitz Vacation Packages Under $499

Don’t forget to check out our round-up of the best all-inclusive vacation packages with airfare under $500 here as well. 

Check Discount Travel Sites

Sign up for emails from Groupon and Travelzoo (or just check their websites weekly), as both discount sites frequently feature all-inclusive vacation packages with airfare for under $500.

Groupon has an air-inclusive trips section on its site that, at the time of writing, promoted “a mystery vacation” to Europe, the Caribbean, Hawaii, or other destinations for $199.

Likewise, Travelzoo’s Top 20 weekly deals recently featured a $499 Punta Cana vacation deal that included meals, drinks, and flights.

Search in Popular All-Inclusive Destinations

Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America are usually the cheapest destinations for all-inclusive packages and a good starting point for your search.

These destinations usually have inexpensive airfare from the United States (especially if you live in the South) and reasonably priced all-inclusive resorts.

Sign Up for Emails From All-Inclusive Resorts

Most all-inclusive resort chains frequently run sales throughout the year. You’ll often see discounted vacation packages for under $500, or even deals which throw in the airfare for free. 

The best way to stay on top of these discounts is to sign up for emails—or follow the brands on social media—from the resort chains. 

Some of the best all-inclusive resort brands to start with are:

• Club Med
• Sandals
• Beaches
• Sunscape
• Zoetry
• Couples Resorts

Google Explore

Sometimes, putting together an all-inclusive vacation on your own can be cheaper than buying a package deal. Use Google Explore to find inexpensive flights from your home airport to anywhere in the world. You can filter by interests such as “beaches” or “museums” along with price, flight time, and number of stops.

Travel in the Off-Season

You’ll have the best luck finding all-inclusive vacation packages with airfare for under $500 if you can travel off-peak. This means avoiding the spring break period at all costs and traveling in May through November if you’re headed to popular destinations in Central America.

The post How to Find All-Inclusive Vacation Packages With Airfare for Under $500 appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Editor’s Note: Airfare and nightly rate estimates are accurate as of time of publication.

San José, Costa Rica

The rainy season in Costa Rica lasts from May to December with peak months in September and October. Traveling during this time can be a gamble, but the rewards are worth the risk. The extra precipitation allows for lush jungle scenery you’ll miss in the dry season, and these months are a prime time to see wildlife.

Getting There: You can find rates to San José for as low as $228 in the fall. Flights to Liberia are slightly more expensive, with most rates around $300 round-trip.

Where to Stay: Put a pop of color in your vacation at Hotel Fleur De Lys, a colorful and warmly welcoming hotel in the cultural district of San José. The property brings the natural beauty of Costa Rica into its design, with each room named after a local flower and several atriums for guests to explore. Standard rooms are available for less than $60/night.

Things to Do: There are plenty of activities in Costa Rica that are actually improved by the rainy season. Book a white water rafting tour or explore local waterfalls while the water is flowing. If you’re an animal lover, plan your trip further west of San José to visit the Ostional National Wildlife Refuge and see the arribadas, or large-scale arrivals, of nesting sea turtles in September and October.

Porto, Portugal

Travelers willing to contend with higher chances of rain during the fall months in Porto will be rewarded with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and city parks and gardens bathed in unforgettable autumn colors.

Getting There: Flights to Porto can be found for around $400-$450 round-trip depending on your departure airport.

Where to Stay: Moov Hotel Porto Centro, a centrally located art deco hotel, has rooms for as low as $126 per night.

Things to Do: There’s no shortage of things to do in Porto in any season, from catching a can’t-miss fado show to visiting the Jardins do Palacio de Cristal for incredible scenery to sampling a delicious francesinha, a savory sandwich invented in the city.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Not all fall travelers are chasing pumpkin spice and cooler weather. To extend the summer vibes, book a trip to Las Vegas in September and October, where daytime temperatures hover in the low to mid-80s and cool off significantly at night.

Getting There: West Coast travelers will find unbelievably cheap fall fares to Las Vegas, with round-trip tickets under $50. East Coasters will have to fly for longer, but they can still find flights on budget airlines like Frontier and Spirit for under $100.

Where to Stay: The Rio Hotel & Casino is just one block off the Strip and has nightly rates for under $200 in the fall.

Things to Do: All the traditional Las Vegas activities are available in the autumn, from catching a show to taking in the atmosphere at one of the city’s many casinos. For a seasonal event, check out the upcoming harvest show at the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, a free-to-enter display of floral sculptures and dazzling gardens. For families, there are several trunk-or-treat events throughout October with either free entry or a small registration fee.

Cancún, Mexico

If you’re a risk-taker (that is, you don’t mind the possibility of rain or even hurricanes), Cancún in the rainy season of August to October could lead to some good deals on this classic, white sand Mexican beach destination on the Yucatán Peninsula. 

Getting There: You can find roundtrip fares to Cancún this fall in the $200-$300 range.

Where to Stay: Where you stay in Cancún depends on how you want to spend your days, from all-inclusive resorts to simple haciendas. To bring a spring break vibe to your autumn getaway, check out Krystal Cancun, where October rates start in the $200 range.

Things to Do: Swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and scuba diving all top the list of activities in Cancún. Beyond the sea, book a package to visit historic sites like the Chichén Itzá Ruins or take a street food tour to try tacos and mezcal.

New Orleans

New Orleans is bustling with activity this upcoming fall season, from the delicious Beignet Fest to the citywide NOLAxNOLA concert series. Explore the city at the tail end of its off-season with nice (less humid) fall weather, including temperate days and cooler evenings.

Getting There: This coming fall, roundtrip airfare to New Orleans from several major hubs will be under $100, with Google Flights showing most fares hovering in the $100-$250 range.

Where to Stay: The Aloft New Orleans Downtown places you in the heart of the city, within walking distance of iconic areas like the French Quarter and Bourbon Street. Fall rates start at around $200 per night.

Things to Do: Listening to jazz and live music is a must while in the Big Easy, as is feasting at Cajun and Creole restaurants like Commander’s Palace. To experience a bit of nature beyond New Orleans’ beautiful architecture, take a bayou boat tour and try to spot gators.

Rome, Italy

The off-season in Rome officially begins in mid-November, but tourist traffic starts lightening up in October. This makes the later fall months a great time to visit the city before tourism picks back up for the holidays. Hotels are cheaper this time of year, and temperatures range in the low-60s to mid-70s.

Getting There: Travelers can find flights from major US cities in the $400 to $600 range, significantly more affordable than the summer months when similar flight itineraries can cost up to and above $1,000 roundtrip. If you’re willing to have a layover on your way to Italy, you can find fares for under $400.

Where to Stay: Hotel Trastevere is located in the heart of the neighborhood of Trastevere, a historical region of the city full of cafes, wine bars, pizzerias, open-air markets, and historic architecture. The hotel itself is just a 20-minute tram ride to attractions like the Pantheon, Colosseum, and Trevi Fountain. Fall prices average around $250 per night.

Things to Do: Many of the city’s ancient sites are free to explore, with an admission fee only required if you want to enter certain areas or take a guided tour. Dozens of stunning parks and piazzas are also free to wander, including the stunning Piazzale Garibaldi, where you can get 360 degree views of the city.

Washington DC

While many travelers aim to see the stunning display of cherry blossoms in the spring, Washington, D.C., in autumn shouldn’t be overlooked. With dozens of free attractions around the city, savvy travelers can create a jam-packed itinerary while still saving money.

Getting There: Even from Los Angeles, round-trip flights to Washington, D.C. can cost as low as $100 in the fall. The city is also easily accessible by train and bus from a number of East Coast cities.

Where to Stay: The Generator Hotel offers nice accommodations at a surprisingly affordable price of around $180 per night.

Things to Do: Explore the museums of the National Mall, all free to the public, along with the city’s many monuments and memorials. Catch the fall colors, at their peak in the region in mid-October, at the U.S. National Arboretum or see a discounted show at this year’s Theatre Week (September 26 through October 13).

Chicago, Illinois

Visiting Chicago in the fall will allow you to see the Windy City in a whole new light. Admire the famous Cloud Gate amid the gorgeous foliage in Millennium Park, or take an architecture cruise to see famous buildings surrounded by autumn colors. 

Getting There: Budget airlines Spirit and Frontier offer nonstop flights from a number of major cities to Chicago, with round-trip prices under $100.

Where to Stay: Find a room at the Silversmith Hotel in Chicago’s popular Magnificant Mile neighborhood for around $250 per night.

Things to Do: Plan your trip for the last weekend in September to attend Chicago’s Oktoberfest and get a little taste of adventuring abroad in your domestic travels. Closer to Halloween, check out Arts in the Dark, an evening of visual and performing arts in Washington Park with a spooky seasonal twist.

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To qualify for consideration for our cheapest Caribbean islands list, the destination must also be ranked in the top half of the Price of Travel’s index of the cheapest Caribbean islands. This index measures the relative affordability of Caribbean islands by comparing hotel rates and airfare in high season.

These are the nine cheapest Caribbean islands to visit.

Cozumel

This small island off the coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is known for its white sand beaches, colorful marine life, and the Mayan ruins of San Gervasio. While you can fly directly to Cozumel from numerous U.S. airports, including Houston, Denver, Chicago, and New York, you can often save hundreds of dollars by flying to Cancún instead and then taking a ferry to Cozumel from nearby Playa del Carmen. The ferry ride takes approximately 45 minutes and costs around $28 for a round-trip ticket.

Flights to Cancún from most major U.S. airports can be found in the $300-$400 range regularly throughout the year, with many fares falling below the $300 mark.

You’ll likely find cheaper hotel nightly rates between August and November. (Note that this falls within Caribbean hurricane season.)

Where to Stay: The Westin Cozumel, a four-star luxury hotel with a prime beachfront location, has all-inclusive rates in ocean-view rooms starting at $280 per person.  

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Jamaica

Eco-adventurers will find plenty to do in Jamaica, from swimming in waterfalls to zip-lining through the rainforest. Only-in-Jamaica spots to visit include the Bob Marley Museum and the Rastafari Indigenous Village. And, of course, there are plenty of beaches to relax on between excursions.

With three main tourist areas—Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Negril—you can price-shop for the best rates for your Caribbean vacation. Again, travel between May and October may offer lower rates because of hurricane season.

Many US hubs, including Atlanta, Charlotte, Miami, New York, and Philadelphia, offer direct flights to Jamaica. Keep an eye out for good deals, as you can often find cheap flights to Jamaica for $300 or less.
Where to Stay: For an affordable adults-only Caribbean escape, check out the Ocean Eden Bay, which offers all-inclusive rates starting at around $319 per night.

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Puerto Rico

In Puerto Rico, you can split your vacation between the lush El Yunque Rainforest, the island’s wide sandy beaches, and the vibrant streets of Old San Juan. A boat trip into one of the island’s bioluminescent bays is another must-do.

Fares from major East Coast airports to San Juan are consistently low, with many round-trip options costing less than $200. Fares from departure airports further west remain reasonable, with options below $300. Budget airline Fronteir serves San Juan and often has sales offering tickets for as low as $100 round-trip.

It’s easy to budget for expenses in Puerto Rico, as the local currency is the U.S. dollar. Bonus: You don’t need to pay for a passport to get there. And with a variety of hotel options all over the island, it’s not hard to find one in your price range.

Where to Stay: The four-star Abitta Boutique Hotel is conveniently located across from the ferry terminal and offers rates under $200 per night.

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Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is probably the cheapest Caribbean island to visit if you’re looking for affordable, all-inclusive deals. You’ll find dozens of packages in Punta Cana on CheapCaribbean.com, with prices as low as $640 per person for air and three nights’ accommodations. Activities in the area include snorkeling, zip-lining, and off-road ATV tours through the jungle. 

There are plenty of popular resort areas in the Dominican Republic where you can focus your hotel search, including La Romana, Puerto Plata, and Samana.

Where to Stay: If you prefer to explore the island and skip the all-inclusive, the four-star Dominican Fiesta Hotel has room rates starting at $84 per night.

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Curaçao

You can’t go wrong with a visit to the “C” of the ABC Islands, especially during the spring or fall shoulder season, when you’ll find even more savings. And since Curaçao falls outside the hurricane belt, you can book a trip here without worrying too much about the weather. Whether you visit for the numerous festivals or the pleasant beach weather year-round, on a Caribbean visit to Curaçao you’ll fall in love with the local food trucks, colorful Dutch architecture, unparalleled snorkel spots, and secret beaches.

With nonstop flight options from major U.S. cities like Newark, New York’s JFK, and Miami, Curaçao is highly accessible from the East Coast.

Where to stay: The island has plenty of hotel inventory with competitive nightly rates. Check out ACOYA Curaçao Resort, Villas, & Spa in downtown Willemstad, which starts around $114 per night.

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Or try The Rif at Mangrove Beach, which has all-inclusive rates for under $300 per night.

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Martinique

This French overseas region attracts a sophisticated crowd, particularly travelers from Canada and Europe looking for a cosmopolitan Caribbean experience.

If you’re not the type of traveler who likes to lounge on the beach for your whole vacation, Martinique is the right island for you, as the mountainous landscape offers plenty of hiking opportunities. Culinary enthusiasts will delight in the island’s gastronomic scene, which fuses French techniques with Caribbean flavors and local ingredients.

The island’s international appeal is evident in its air connections, with direct flights from North American cities like Miami, Montreal, and Toronto, as well as European hubs such as Paris, Frankfurt, and Rome. 

If you’re willing to be flexible with your dates, you can often find flights from the US for around $400-$500.
Where to stay: There are plenty of small, rustic bed and breakfasts in Martinique that offer rooms for under $100 per night, but if you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, Hotel Diamant Les Bains is a highly-rated four-star hotel with affordable nightly rates of around $170.

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Grenada

Grenada’s nickname, “The Spice Island,” is well-earned. The air is perfumed with the subtle aroma of nutmeg, a testament to the island’s rich agricultural heritage. But spices are just the beginning—Grenada’s appeal lies in its unspoiled nature, secluded beaches, and relaxed pace. 

Accommodations range from comfortable mid-range resorts to exclusive luxury retreats catering to various budgets and preferences. You can find direct flights to Grenada from Miami, New York City, and Charlotte, but expect to pay a premium for the convenience. If you’re willing to have a layover, you can find great airfare deals for as low as $300. 

Where to stay: The Radisson Grenada overlooks the world-famous Grand Anse Beach and has two beautiful outdoor swimming pools. You can find rooms at this four-star resort for under $200 per night. 

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Barbados

JetBlue and American Airlines have recently expanded their service to Barbados to meet increased travel demand, which has helped drive down the airfare prices to this eastern Caribbean gem. If you’re willing to travel in the off-season, you can find flights for as low as $200 round-trip.

The island draws scuba divers and snorkelers because of its reputation as a great diving destination. But Barbados is far more than just its stunning coastline. While the beaches rightfully claim fame with their powdery sands and crystal-clear waters, the island is also home to Bridgetown, a Unesco World Heritage-listed capital city.

Where to stay: There’s a wide range of accommodations in Barbados, where you’ll find $104 per night properties right next door to $2,000 per night resorts. Crystal Cove occupies an excellent middle ground, with all-inclusive rates for as low as $350 per night. 

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Antigua

Known for its breathtaking beauty, Antigua boasts an impressive 365 beaches—one for every day of the year. These pristine stretches of sand, lapped by crystal-clear turquoise waters, range from secluded coves to lively party beaches. 

Surprisingly affordable flights make Antigua one of the more budget-friendly options among the smaller Caribbean islands. If you want to spend those airfare savings on a hotel, there are plenty of splurge-worthy luxury resorts that will cater to your every whim and desire. However, you can stick to a budget here as well, with four-star resorts available for as low as $99 per night. 

Where to stay: If you’re in the mood for a romantic all-inclusive vacation, Cocos Hotel is an adults-only resort that caters to couples. Rates start at around $450 per night.

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For a cheaper hotel option, the Antigua Yacht Club Marina & Resort has rooms for as low as $99 per night.

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Tips for Saving Money on Caribbean Trips

No matter which Caribbean island paradise you choose, following a few simple tips can help you save money on your vacation.

• Be flexible with your dates—most airlines do not operate daily flights to the Caribbean, so you can find better schedules and deals by being open to traveling on any day of the week
• Travel during the Caribbean’s off-season, June through November. However, be aware that this is hurricane season, and purchase travel insurance to protect your trip.
• Sign up for airfare alerts on our sister site, Airfarewatchdog, which will let you know when ticket prices fall.
• Search for flight and package deals at all-inclusive resorts. Cheap Caribbean, JetBlue Vacations, and Travelzoo are all good places to look.
• Sign up for emails from resorts you’re interested in, as they often send out promotions or sales.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2019. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Sarah Schlichter contributed to this story.

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